Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Eriobotrya japonica extract: a promising approach against cancer cells proliferation, inflammation, allergic disorders and phagocytosis induction

An investigation on antimicrobial and anticancer competence of macro red algae under in-vitro condition

The purpose of this study was to look into the proximate parameters (moisture, ash, total fat, protein, and total carbohydrate), mineral composition (Fe, Cu, Mg, and Zn), antimicrobial as well as cytotoxic (anticancer) properties of extracts from the marine red macro algae Gracilaria corticata, Chondrus ocellatus, and Posphyra perforata against a few prevalent microbial pathogens (Salmonella typhi, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Clostridium tetani, and Treponema pallidum as well as fungal pathogens such as Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Cryptococcus neoformans) and two cancerous cell lines (HeLa and MCF7). The dry biomass of these red algae biomass contains considerable valuable proximate parameters and minerals. The diffusion technique on agar wells was used to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of these test red algae methanol and hexane extract; MTT assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of the methanol and hexane extracts on each cancer cell line. The methanol extracts demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against most of the tested pathogenic organisms. Mortality of cells was effectively caused by methanol extract and it followed by hexane extract at increased dosage 10 mg mL-1. The MTT assay revealed that the methanol extract of the red algae was considerably cytotoxic to HeLa and MCF7 cells, accompanied by the hexane extract in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that the methanol extract of these red algae may contain bioactive compounds with antimicrobial and anticancer properties, which could be studied for future use in the discovery of new drugs from marine ecosystems.

Assessment of silver nanoparticles' antitumor effects: Insights into cell number, viability, and morphology of glioblastoma and prostate cancer cells

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) hold promise for cancer therapy. This study aimed to evaluate their impact on tumor and non-tumor cell number, viability, and morphology. Antitumor activity was tested on U-87MG (glioblastoma) and DU-145 (prostate cancer) cell lines. Treatment with AgNPs notably reached a reduction of U-87MG and DU-145 cell growth by 89.30% and 79.74%, respectively, resulting in slower growth rates. AgNPs induced DNA damage, evidenced by reduced nuclear area and DNA content via fluorescent image-based analyses. Conversely, HFF-1 non-tumor cells displayed no significant changes post-AgNPs exposure. Viability assays revealed substantial reductions in U-87MG and DU-145 cells (79% and 63% in MTT assays, 30% and 52.2% in high-content analyses), while HFF-1 cells exhibited lower sensitivity. Tumor cells had notably lower IC50 values than non-tumor cells, indicating selective susceptibility. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed morphological changes post-AgNPs administration, including increased vacuoles, myelin figures, membrane ghosts, cellular extravasation, and membrane projections. The findings suggest the potential of AgNPs against glioblastoma and prostate cancer, necessitating further exploration across other cancer cell lines.

Designing Green Synthesis-Based Silver Nanoparticles for Antimicrobial Theranostics and Cancer Invasion Prevention

Introduction

Researchers are increasingly favouring the use of biological resources in the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. This synthesis process is quick and affordable. The current study examined the antibacterial and anticancer effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from the Neurada procumbens plant. Biomolecules derived from natural sources can be used to coat AgNPs to make them biocompatible.

Methods

UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to verify the synthesis of AgNPs from Neurada procumbens plant extract, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize their morphology, crystalline structure, stability, and coating.

Results

UV-visible spectrum of AgNPs shows an absorption peak at 422 nm, indicating the isotropic nature of these nanoparticles. As a result of the emergence of a transmission peak at 804.53 and 615.95 cm-1 in the spectrum of the infrared light emitted by atoms in a sample, FTIR spectroscopy demonstrated that the Ag stretching vibration mode is metal-oxygen (M-O). Electron dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectral analysis shows that elementary silver has a peak at 3 keV. Irradiating the silver surface with electrons, photons, or laser beams triggers the illumination. The emission peak locations have been found between 300 and 550 nm. As a result of DLS analysis, suspended particles showed a bimodal size distribution, with their Z-average particle size being 93.38 nm.

Conclusion

The findings showed that the antibacterial action of AgNPs was substantially (p≤0.05) more evident against Gramme-positive strains (S. aureus and B. cereus) than E. coli. The biosynthesis of AgNPs is an environmentally friendly method for making nanostructures that have antimicrobial and anticancer properties.

Silver-cored Ziziphus spina-christi extract-loaded antimicrobial nanosuspension: overcoming multidrug resistance

Aims: To synthesize a silver-cored nanosuspension utilizing Ziziphus spina-christi fresh-leaf extract and evaluate their antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant pathogenic microbes. Materials and Methods: The prepared nanosuspension was analyzed by spectro-analytical techniques and tested for antimicrobial activity and resistance to biofilm formation. The leaf extract and nanosuspension were tested separately and together as a mixture. Results: Constituent nanoparticles were average-sized (∼34 nm) and were active against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative microbes and yeast. Candida albicans showed a 24.50 ± 1.50 mm inhibition zone, followed by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Increased bioactivity with the highest multifold increments, 150%, for erythromycin against all tested microbes was observed. Carbenicillin and trimethoprim showed 166%- and 300%-fold increments for antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. Conclusion: The nanosuspension exhibited strong potential as an antimicrobial agent and overcame multidrug resistance.

Anticancer Phytochemical-Based Nanoformulations: Therapeutic Intervention in Cancer Cell Lines

Phytochemicals have the potential to treat resistant cancer. They are delivered to the target site via nano-based carriers. Promising results are seen in preclinical and in vitro models, as phytochemical-based nanoformulations have improved cell cytotoxicity compared to single agents. They can synergistically inhibit cancer cell growth through p53 apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. Moreover, synergic viability in reproducible glioma models at half inhibitory concentrations has been shown. Through caspase activation, phytochemical-based nanoformulations also increase cell death in 4T1 breast cancer cell lines. They have shown improved cytotoxicity at half inhibitory concentrations compared to single-agent drugs in cervical cancer. In terms of colorectal cancer, they have the potential to arrest cells in the S phase of the cell cycle and synergistically inhibit cell proliferation. In squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, they inhibit protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. This review reports on developments in the therapeutic management of various cancers using phytochemical-based nanoformulations, which have shown potential benefits in the clinical management of cancer patients, halting/slowing the progression of the disease and ameliorating chemotherapy-induced toxicities.

Green Synthesis of Characterized Silver Nanoparticle Using Cullen tomentosum and Assessment of Its Antibacterial Activity

Plants serve as an important source of medicine and provide suitable candidate compounds to produce eco-friendly therapeutic agents. They also represent a source of bio-reducer and stabilizer for the development of nanoparticles for downstream applications. This study focused on the green synthesis of silver nanoparticle (CTAgNP) using Cullen tomentosum (Thunb.) J.W. Grimes acetone extract and the evaluation of the antibacterial activity of the plant extract and biogenic nanoparticles against two Gram-positive bacteria strains, namely Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, the phytochemical profile of C. tomentosum was established using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The antibacterial effect of the extract and CTAgNP was moderate based on the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values obtained. The MIC values of 2.6 mg/mL and 3.1 mg/mL were recorded for C. tomentosum extract against B. cereus and S. aureus, respectively. On the other hand, the CTAgNP had MIC values of 1.5 mg/mL and 2.6 mg/mL against B. cereus and S. aureus, respectively. The nanoparticle exhibited surface charge of -37 ± 7.67 mV and average hydro-dynamic size of 145 nm. X-ray diffraction illustrates that metallic nanoparticles were formed and had a face-centered cubic structure. Microscopic and spectroscopic techniques revealed that the CTAgNP was covered by a protective shell layer constituted of organic compounds originating from the plant extract. The acetone extract of C. tomentosum could be useful to the bio-pharma industries in the large-scale manufacture of nanoparticle-based medications to fight against microbes that constitute a threat to the survival of humanity.

Green Synthesis of Anti-bacterial Nano Silver by Polysaccharide from Bletilla Striata

The silver nanoparticle is a good antibacterial material being used as a broad-spectrum fungicide, including against some multidrug-resistant strains. Compared with the normal chemical and physical preparation methods, green synthesis has attracted wide attention, because of the pharmaceutical activities of the natural product, mild reaction conditions, and environmentally friendly, etc. In this study, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) was prepared from Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) and characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated the morphology of Ag NPs was subspherical with an average size of 20–35 nm. Bletilla striata polysaccharide not only can be used as a natural reducing agent, but also has good repairing ability. Moreover, the antibacterial experimental results showed its great antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) and Candida albicans.

Dose-dependent biological toxicity of green synthesized silver nanoparticles in rat's brain

Metal nanoparticles, in general, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), in particular, have been the focus of numerous studies over the last two decades. Recently, the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles has been favored over chemical synthesis due to its low toxicity and easy preparation. The present study aims to investigate the dose-dependent toxicity of green synthesized AgNPs on rats' brains. Thirty-four Wistar male rats were divided into four groups. The first, second, and third groups were administered for 14 days with three different doses (0.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg) of AgNPs, respectively. The fourth group, which served as a control group, was given normal saline for the same period. The toxicity of the green synthesized AgNPs on the cortical and hippocampal levels of the oxidative stress markers (MDA, NO, and GSH) as well as the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AchE) and the monoamine neurotransmitters (DA, NE, and 5H-T) were investigated. AgNPs showed minimal oxidative stress in the cortex and hippocampus for the administered doses. However, AgNPs showed an inhibitory effect on AchE activity in a dose-dependent manner and a decrease in the 5H-T and NE levels. The green synthesized AgNPs showed an ultrastructural change in the cellular membranes of the neurons. The green synthesis of AgNPs has reduced their cytotoxic oxidative effects due to their capping with biologically compatible and boosting molecules such as flavonoids. However, another neurotoxicity was observed in a dose-dependent manner.

Anti-inflammatory effect of simvastatin by impeding TNF-α and interleukin-1ß pathways: antiangiogenic activity of simvastatin and simvastatin-loaded silver nanoparticles

PURPOSE

The present study was carried out to evaluate anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic attributes of simvastatin and its nanofilms containing silver nanoparticles.

METHODS

Silver nanoparticles and simvastatin-loaded nanocomposite (SNSN) films were formulated by using polymeric solution (pectin + sericin) through casting solution method. Different in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory assays were performed. In addition, chick chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM) was also employed for angiogenesis activity.

RESULTS

FTIR spectra of the film depicted the presence of intact simvastatin. Differential scanning calorimetry exhibited no endothermic expression in F9 film thermogram. The simvastatin release from all films exhibited a burst effect. Cotton-pellet induced granuloma model study showed that high dose of simvastatin and indomethacin produced comparable (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory effect. Noteworthy, RT-PCR showed dose-dependent, anti-oedematous effect of simvastatin through downregulation of serum TNF-α and interleukin-1ß levels. While results of CAM assay exhibited remarkable anti-angiogenic potential of SNSN films showing dissolved blood vessels network macroscopically.

CONCLUSION

To reiterate, simvastatin and its SNSN films can add significant contribution to the field of biomedicines due to their promising anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic properties, however, clinical studies are required to validate their commercial use.

Anticandidal activity of green synthesised silver nanoparticles and extract loaded chitosan nanoparticles of Euphorbia prostata

This study aimed to synthesize the silver nanoparticles (SNPs) and loaded chitosan nanoparticles (LCNPs) using Euphorbia prostata based on their anticandidal activity. Antioxidant capacity and the total phenolic and total flavonoid content of plant samples and synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) were also evaluated. SNPs and LCNPs were prepared, respectively using chemical reduction of silver salt solution and ionotropic gelation method. The anticandidal activity was assessed by broth micro-dilution method and the antioxidant activity was determined using free-radical scavenging assays. The synthesized NPs after the optimization process were found to be spherical with sizes ranging from 12 to 100 nm. Spectroscopic analysis of NPs showed the appearance of peaks in prescribed wavelength ranging between 402 and 493 nm. The synthesized NPs showed potent anticandidal activity compared to the free extract. The SNPs formulations NpEPM 7.5 and NpEPMR 7.5, showed significantly low MIC values ranging between 2 and 128 µg/mL. In the case of LCNPs, NpEPM (4:1) and NpEPME (4:1) also showed lower MIC values ranging from 32 to 256 µg/mL. The plant samples as well as NPs showed antioxidant potential. In addition, plant extracts and NPs possess the potent biological potential and can be further investigated through in vivo experiments.

Novel combination of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and gold nanocomposite for photothermal therapy in human breast cancer model

Despite current medical advancements, the resistance of malignant tumours to conventional medical therapies highlights the need for innovative therapeutic techniques. Numerous studies have focused on the promising application of nanomaterials in recent years. Nanoparticles (NPs) are used to treat cancer. Plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPTT) is a cancer-ablation technique in which photon energy is rapidly converted into heat by some radiative and non-radiative events. Gold NPs (Au-NPs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are plasmonic NPs with excellent thermal conductivity and their near-infrared (NIR) absorbance has several interesting qualities. Additionally, CNTs could penetrate cells. In this study, Au-NPs were used to fabricate multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs), which could boost its efficacy in cancer treatment in accordance with PPTT. Transmission electron microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy and FTIR were used to examine the MWCNTs made from walnut shell. Au-NPs were explored using green chemistry and MWCNT-COOAu, MWCNT-COO and MWCNT-Au were examined by Raman, EDX and FESEM techniques. The effect of MWCNT-COOAu, MWCNT-COO and MWCNT-Au at various concentrations (3.12, 6.25, 12.5 and 25 µg/mL) and irradiation time intervals (30, 60, 90 and 120 sec) by using NIR laser under λ = 1064 nm and P = 3 W on the breast cancer cell line (MCF7) was investigated. The highest temperatures for MWCNT-COO, MWCNT-COOAu and MWCNT-Au were determined to be 44.1 °C, 46 °C and 46.9 °C, respectively, which produced 61.66 %, 72 % and 85.3 % cytotoxicity, respectively, in MCF7 cell line at a concentration of 25 µg/mL and an irradiation period of 120 sec. The treatment of MCF7 cell line by photothermal therapy was found to be in a concentration- and time-dependent manner.

DAT and PRX1 gene expression modulates vincristine production in Catharanthus roseus L. propagates using Cu, Fe and Zn nano structures

Underlying mechanism of nanostructures upon monoterpene induction in Catharanthus roseus has not been explored yet. In the current study, Copper, Iron and Zinc nanoparticles were biosynthesized by Eriobotrya japonica seed extract and capped with reduced glutathione. Biosynthesized nanoparticles and their capped analogues were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometer, FTIR, XRD and SEM. Selected concentration of nanostructures were used in plant tissue culture media which instigated the production of alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids without significantly affecting the growth index of propagated calli and shoots cultures of C. roseus. Accelerated vincristine production was noticed in propagated calli and shoots under copper and zinc nanostress (1645-1865 μg/ml respectively) with the least effect by iron nanostructure. Highest concentration of calcium was recorded in in vitro shoots under capped (3.42 mg/ml ± 7.16) and uncapped (4.41 mg/ml ± 20.44) Zn nanoparticles compared to control (2.82 mg/ml ± 13.41). Real time PCR depicts nano-zinc mediated increased expression of DAT and PRX1 genes of TIA pathway. Significant correlation among PRX1/DAT gene expression with vincristine production and calcium accumulation in the presence of nanostress validate by PCA. This study paved way the opportunities of metal biogenic nanomaterials as an ideal drug modulator in plant tissue culture studies.

Evaluation of Different Surface Coating Agents for Selenium Nanoparticles: Enhanced Anti-Inflammatory Activity and Drug Loading Capacity

Background

Inflammation is the keystone in the disease’s pathological process in response to any damaging stimuli. Therefore, any agent that inhibits the inflammatory response is under focus, either a drug or a bioactive compound. Selenium nanoparticles have drawn attention in various biomedical applications, including the anti-inflammatory activity.

Purpose

In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the capacity of different surface coating materials (soybean lecithin, PEG 6000, and β-cyclodextrin) to enhance the anti-inflammatory activity of the synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). The capability of the coated SeNPs to adsorb indomethacin (IND) on their surfaces compared to the uncoated SeNPs was also evaluated.

Methods

SeNPs were synthesized, coated with different materials, and characterized in vitro using X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, SEM, TEM, and particle size and zeta potential measurements. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the uncoated/coated SeNPs loaded into hydrogel was evaluated using a carrageenan-induced paw edema rat model. The effect of SeNPs surface coatings was further evaluated for IND loading capacity.

Results

Our findings proved the superior anti-inflammatory activity of all coated SeNPs compared to the uncoated SeNPs, especially with β-cyclodextrin surface coating. Regarding the IND loading capacity of the prepared uncoated/coated SeNPs, the amount of drug loaded was 0.12, 1.12, 0.3, and 0.14 µg IND/µg SeNPs for the uncoated, lecithin-, PEG- and β-CD-coated SeNPs, respectively.

Conclusion

Surface functionalization of SeNPs can provide a synergistic therapeutic activity. Our results are promising for further investigation of the in vivo anti-inflammatory synergistic activity of the IND-loaded surface-coated SeNPs.

Effect of Enterobacter cloacae toxin on immune cells isolated from Leukemia patients

Toxin extract affects Neutrophils and macrophages, which are phagocytic cells. A total of (180) samples, (50) urine and (130) peripheral blood have been obtained from leukemia patients referred to Medical city/ Baghdad Teaching Hospital/ Hematology center; all patients enrolled in this study were diagnosed by the physician according to clinical presentation and laboratory findings as leukemic patients. Investigate the role of Enterobacter cloacae toxins on phagocytic activity/THP-1cells and epithelial line/HBL-100 cells. THP-1 and HBL-100 cells have been kept in RPMI-1640 that have been supplemented by (10%) of the fetal bovine serum (100µg/mL) of the streptomycin and 100units/mL of the penicillin. The cells have been passaged with the use of the Trypsin-EDTA that has been re-seeded at a confluence of 80% twice every week, and then it has been incubated afterward at a temperature of (37C°). The results of toxin extract from Enterobacter cloacae revealed that (22) fraction/toxins were taken from (11) bacterial samples; these toxins were separated by gel electrophoresis for protein. (18) samples were positive results for gel electrophoresis of protein according to molecular weight: (13.3 KD for α-hemolysin), (70.5 KD for thiol), (75 KD for enterotoxin). This study demonstrates the cytotoxic activity of E. cloacae toxin by using tissue culture through their effect on suppressing the growth of "THP-1 cells" and HBL-100 cells". Keywords. Tissue culture; Toxin; THP-1 cells; HBL-100 cells; Enterobacter cloacae; Leukemia patients.

Recent progression of cyanobacteria and their pharmaceutical utility: an update

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are Gram-negative photosynthetic eubacteria that are found everywhere. This largest group of photosynthetic prokaryotes is rich in structurally novel and biologically active compounds; several of which have been utilized as prospective drugs against cancer and other ailments, as well. Consequently, the integument of nanoparticles-synthetic approaches in cyanobacterial extracts should increase pharmacological activity. Moreover, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are small materials with diameters below 100 nm that are classified into different classes based on their forms, sizes, and characteristics. Indeed, the biosynthesized AgNPs are generated with a variety of organisms, algae, plants, bacteria, and a few others, for the medicinal purposes, as the bioactive compounds of curio and some proteins from cyanobacteria have the potentiality in the treatment of a wide range of infectious diseases. The critical focus of this review is on the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties of cyanobacteria. This would be useful in the pharmaceutical industries in the future drug development cascades.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Exploring Dose-Dependent Cytotoxicity Profile of Gracilaria edulis-Mediated Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles against MDA-MB-231 Breast Carcinoma

Green-based synthesis of metal nanoparticles using marine seaweeds is a rapidly growing technology that is finding a variety of new applications. In the present study, the aqueous extract of a marine seaweed, Gracilaria edulis, was employed for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles without using any reducing and stabilizing chemical agents. The visual color change and validation through UV-Vis spectroscopy provided an initial confirmation regarding the Gracilaria edulis-mediated green synthesized silver nanoparticles. The dynamic light scattering studies and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy pictographs exhibited that the synthesized Gracilaria edulis-derived silver nanoparticles were roughly spherical in shape having an average size of 62.72 ± 0.25 nm and surface zeta potential of -15.6 ± 6.73 mV. The structural motifs and chemically functional groups associated with the Gracilaria edulis-derived silver nanoparticles were observed through X-ray diffraction and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Further, the synthesized nanoparticles were further screened for their antioxidant properties through DPPH, hydroxyl radical, ABTS, and nitric oxide radical scavenging assays. The phycosynthesized nanoparticles exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cells having IC₅₀ value of 344.27 ± 2.56 μg/mL. Additionally, the nanoparticles also exhibited zone of inhibition against pathogenic strains of Bacillus licheniformis (MTCC 7425), Salmonella typhimurium (MTCC 3216), Vibrio cholerae (MTCC 3904), Escherichia coli (MTCC 1098), Staphylococcus epidermidis (MTCC 3615), and Shigella dysenteriae (MTCC9543). Hence, this investigation explores the reducing and stabilizing capabilities of marine sea weed Gracilaria edulis for synthesizing silver nanoparticles in a cost-effective approach with potential anticancer and antimicrobial activity. The nanoparticles synthesized through green method may be explored for their potential utility in food preservative film industry, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industries.

Evaluation of the Response of HOS and Saos-2 Osteosarcoma Cell Lines When Exposed to Different Sizes and Concentrations of Silver Nanoparticles

Osteosarcoma is considered to be a highly malignant tumor affecting primarily long bones. It metastasizes widely, primarily to the lungs, resulting in poor survival rates of between 19 and 30%. Standard treatment consists of surgical removal of the affected site, with neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy commonly used, with the usual side effects and complications. There is a need for new treatments in this area, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are one potential avenue for exploration. AgNPs have been found to possess antitumor and cytotoxic activity in vitro, by demonstrating decreased viability of cancer cells through cell cycle arrest and subsequent apoptosis. Integral to these pathways is tumor protein p53, a tumor suppressor which plays a critical role in maintaining genome stability by regulating cell division, after DNA damage. The purpose of this study was to determine if p53 mediates any difference in the response of the osteosarcoma cells in vitro when different sizes and concentrations of AgNPs are administered. Two cell lines were studied: p53-expressing HOS cells and p53-deficient Saos-2 cells. The results of this study suggest that the presence of protein p53 significantly affects the efficacy of AgNPs on osteosarcoma cells.

Lipid poly (ɛ-caprolactone) hybrid nanoparticles of 5-fluorouracil for sustained release and enhanced anticancer efficacy

AIMS

The present study aimed to develop and characterize poly (ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) based lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles for sustained delivery and in-vitro anti-cancer activity in MCF-7 and HeLa cells cancer cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The nanoprecipitation method was used for the development of 5-fluorouracil loaded lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNPs). The developed LPHNPs were characterized for physicochemical characteristics and the anti-cancer effect was evaluated in MCF-7 and HeLa cells.

SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS

Six formulations having fixed amount of drug and varied lipid, polymer and emulsifier concentrations were prepared. The particle size was in the range of 174 ± 4 to 267 ± 2.65 nm, entrapment efficiency (92.87 ± 0.594 to 94.13 ± 0.772%), negative zeta potential, optimum polydispersity index and spherical shape. FTIR analysis shows no chemical interaction among the formulation components, DSC analysis reveals the disappearance of 5-FU melting endotherm in the developed LPHNPs suggesting amorphization of 5-FU in the developed system, XRD analysis indicates successful encapsulation of the drug in the lipid polymer matrix. The in-vitro release shows a biphasic release pattern with an initial burst release followed by a sustained release profile for 72 h. The drug loaded LPHNPs exhibited a greater cytotoxic effect than 5-FU solution due to sustained release and increased cellular internalization. The acute toxicity study revealed the safety of the developed carrier system for potential delivery of chemotherapeutic agents.

SIGNIFICANCE

The developed LPHNPs of 5-fluorouracil will provide the sustained release behavior of 5-fluorouracil to maximize the therapeutic efficacy and minimize the dose related toxicity.

Green Biosynthesis, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Anticancer Activities of Silver Nanoparticles of Luffa acutangula Leaf Extract

Studies on green biosynthesis of newly engineered nanoparticles for their prominent medicinal applications are being the torch-bearing concerns of the state-of-the-art research strategies. In this concern, we have engineered the biosynthesized Luffa acutangula silver nanoparticles of flavonoid O-glycosides in the anisotropic form isolated from aqueous leave extracts of Luffa acutangula, a popular traditional and ayurvedic plant in south-east Asian countries. These were structurally confirmed by Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy accessed with attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR) spectral analyses followed by the scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and the X-ray diffraction (XRD) crystallographic studies and found them with the face-centered cubic (fcc) structure. Medicinally, we have explored their significant antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS assays), antibacterial (disc diffusion assay on E. coli, S. aureus, B. subtilis, S. fecilis, and S. boydii), and anticancer (MTT assay on MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, U87, and DBTRG cell lines) potentialities which augmented the present investigation. The molecular docking analysis of title compounds against 3NM8 (DPPH) and 1DNU (ABTS) proteins for antioxidant activity; 5FGK (Gram-Positive Bacteria) and 1AB4 (Gram-Negative Bacteria) proteins for antibacterial activity; and 4GBD (MCF-7), 5FI2 (MDA-MB-231), 1D5R (U87), and 5TIJ (DBTRG) proteins for anticancer activity has affirmed the promising ligand-protein binding interactions among the hydroxy groups of the title compounds and aspartic acid of the concerned enzymatic proteins. The binding energy varying from -9.1645 to -7.7955 for Cosmosioside (1, Apigenin-7-glucoside) and from -9.2690 to -7.8306 for Cynaroside (2, Luteolin-7-glucoside) implies the isolated compounds as potential bioactive compounds. In addition, the performed studies like QSAR, ADMET, bioactivity properties, drug scores, and toxicity risks confirmed them as potential drug candidates and aspartic acid receptor antagonists. This research auxiliary augmented the existing array of phytological nanomedicines with new drug candidates that are credible with multiple bioactivities.

Prospective Application of Nanoparticles Green Synthesized Using Medicinal Plant Extracts as Novel Nanomedicines

The use of medicinal plants in green synthesis of metal nanoparticles is increasing day by day. A simple search for the keywords "green synthesis" and "nanoparticles" yields more than 33,000 articles in Scopus. As of August 10, 2021, more than 4000 articles have been published in 2021 alone. Besides demonstrating the ease and environmental-friendly route of synthesizing nanomaterials, many studies report the superior pharmacological properties of green synthesized nanoparticles compared to those synthesized by other methods. This is probably due to the fact that bioactive molecules are entrapped on the surface of these nanoparticles. On the other hand, recent studies have confirmed the nano-dimension and biocompatibility of metal ash (Bhasma) preparations, which are commonly macerated with biological products and administered for the treatment of various diseases in Indian medicine since ancient times. This perspective article argues for the prospective medical application of green nanoparticles in the light of Bhasma.

Effectiveness of Green Synthesis of Silver/Kaolinite Nanocomposite Using Quercus infectoria Galls Aqueous Extract and Its Chitosan-Capped Derivative on the Healing of Infected Wound

Kaolinite nanocomposites (NCs) could be utilized as agents for wound healing owing to their efficiency and low toxicity. The present study was conducted to synthesize a novel silver/kaolinite NCs (Ag/Kaol NCs) and investigate their chitosan derivation (Ag/Kaol/Chit NCs) using oak extract. XRD, SEM, EDX, FT-IR, and DLS were employed for the investigation of structural and physio-chemical properties of the synthesized NCs. The obtained results revealed that synthesized Ag/Kaol NCs were mesoporous and spherical with sizes ranging from 7-11 nm. They also demonstrated successful synthesis between silver and kaolinite using the extract. Cytotoxicity and in vitro antibacterial activity were also investigated. The clinical effects of ointments containing the NCs for improving wound healing were studied on the wound area, total bacterial count, histological parameters, and protein expression of some genes. Nanocomposites were safe up to 0.50 mg/mL. The results of in vivo and in vitro antibacterial activity showed that Ag/Kaol NCs, were of antibacterial activity ( ). The results of antioxidant activity indicated that Ag/Kaol NCs have antioxidant structures. Our findings concerning molecular mechanism implied that Ag/Kaol/Chit increased the expression of Wnt/ β -catenin and collagen ( ). In sum, Ag/Kaol/Chit showed antibacterial activity and improved wound healing by decreasing the inflammation and promoting the proliferative phase. The novel NCs showed wound healing properties by decreasing inflammation and total bacterial count and increasing proliferative phase. The application of Ag/Kaol/Chit was suggested as a green agent for improving infected wound healing.

Apelin/APJ signaling activates autophagy to promote human lung adenocarcinoma cell migration

AIMS

Beclin1(BECN1) is known as an autophagy-related protein and the expression is promoted by apelin in lung adenocarcinoma cells, suggesting that apelin activates autophagy in lung adenocarcinoma. However, the functions of apelin-induced autophagy in lung adenocarcinoma tumorigenesis and deterioration are still unknown. Thus, this study aims to investigate the effects of apelin-induced autophagy on lung adenocarcinoma tumorigenesis and deterioration.

MAIN METHODS

Protein expression of exogenous genes were detected by Western blotting analysis. Lung adenocarcinoma cell migration was assessed with cell migration assays. Autophagy was measured with quantification of GFP-LC3 or RFP-GFP-LC3 puncta using fluorescence microscopy in cells by an observed blinded to experimental condition and by western blot analysis of LC3 and p62 in cell lysates as well as autophagy flux. Immunofluorescence staining was performed in human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells with p-cofilin antibody. The proteins expression in cancer specimens were examined with immunohistochemistry.

KEY FINDINGS

Here, we reveal that apelin induces autophagy activation in lung adenocarcinoma. Apelin/APJ regulates BECN1 transcription via HIF1A. Apelin/APJ-activated autophagy promotes lung adenocarcinoma cell migration. Moreover, treatment with autophagy inhibitors significantly decreases apelin/APJ-induced lung adenocarcinoma cell migration. Evaluation of patient samples of lung adenocarcinoma reveals an association between APJ with BECN1 expression and a poor prognosis.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our studies demonstrate that apelin-induced autophagy promotes lung adenocarcinoma cell migration which suggests a potential therapeutic target for lung adenocarcinoma.

Pt(II)-Thiocarbohydrazone Complex as Cytotoxic Agent and Apoptosis Inducer in Caov-3 and HT-29 Cells through the P53 and Caspase-8 Pathways

In this study, a platinum(II) complex ([Pt(H₂L)(PPh₃)] complex) containing a thiocarbohydrazone as the ligand was tested as an anti-proliferative agent against ovarian adenocarcinoma (Caov-3) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29) through MTT assays. Apoptotic markers were tested by the AO/PI double staining assay and DNA fragmentation test. Flow cytometry was conducted to measure cell cycle distribution, while the p53 and caspase-8 pathways were tested via immunofluorescence assay. Results demonstrated that the cytotoxic effect of the Pt(II)-thiocarbohydrazone complexes against Caov-3 and HT-29 cells was highly significant, and this effect triggered the activation of the p53 and caspase-8 pathways. Besides, apoptosis stimulated by the Pt(II)-thiocarbohydrazone complex was associated with cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. These findings suggest that the target complex inhibited the proliferation of Caov-3 and HT-29 cells, resulting in the arrest of the cell cycle and induction of apoptosis via the stimulation of the p53 and caspase-8 pathways. The present data suggests that the Pt(II)-thiocarbohydrazone complex could also be a promising chemotherapeutic agent for other types of cancer cells.

Synthesis, docking study, and in vitro anticancer evaluation of new flufenamic acid derivatives

Novel compounds (6–10) were synthesized and confirmed by spectroscopic analysis, including AT-IR, 1HNMR and CHNS. Their cytotoxic effect was evaluated by MTT assay against two cancer cell lines and two normal cell types. Compound 7 exhibited anticancer activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line (GI50 = 63.9 µg/ml, 148 µM), without any effect against A549 lung cancer cells, or the normal cells. Compound 7 caused cytotoxicity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells by apoptotic cell death, as suggested by fragmented nuclei after DAPI staining and agarose gel electrophoresis. In addition, treating MCF-7 cells with compound 7 resulted in an increase in the level of caspase 9 mRNA level, and its activation. Moreover, compound 7-treated MCF-7 cells showed enhanced cytochrome c release from the mitochondria to the cytosol, signifying an induction of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Finally, compound 7 exhibited epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase inhibitory activity at (EC50 = 0.13 µM), which was matched by molecular docking studies that showed compound 7 might be an important EGFR kinase inhibitor.

Estrogenic Plants: to Prevent Neurodegeneration and Memory Loss and Other Symptoms in Women After Menopause

In mammals, sexual hormones such as estrogens play an essential role in maintaining brain homeostasis and function. Estrogen deficit in the brain induces many undesirable symptoms such as learning and memory impairment, sleep and mood disorders, hot flushes, and fatigue. These symptoms are frequent in women who reached menopausal age or have had ovariectomy and in men and women subjected to anti-estrogen therapy. Hormone replacement therapy alleviates menopause symptoms; however, it can increase cardiovascular and cancer diseases. In the search for therapeutic alternatives, medicinal plants and specific synthetic and natural molecules with estrogenic effects have attracted widespread attention between the public and the scientific community. Various plants have been used for centuries to alleviate menstrual and menopause symptoms, such as Cranberry, Ginger, Hops, Milk Thistle, Red clover, Salvia officinalis, Soy, Black cohosh, Turnera diffusa, Ushuva, and Vitex. This review aims to highlight current evidence about estrogenic medicinal plants and their pharmacological effects on cognitive deficits induced by estrogen deficiency during menopause and aging.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using the Flower Extract of Abelmoschus esculentus for Cytotoxicity and Antimicrobial Studies

BACKGROUND

Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, an economically important malvaceous vegetable crop popularly known as okra, is used in various culinary preparations and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. The biological properties of okra flowers in relation to nanoparticle synthesis have not yet been reported.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using extracts of the flowers of A. esculentus. The characteristics of the AgNPs were studied using a UV-vis spectrometer, Fourier transmission infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX). Antibacterial activity screening was performed using the agar well diffusion method, and cytotoxicity and cell viability studies were conducted using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

RESULTS

The synthesized AgNPs were spherical and ranged in size from 5.52 to 31.96 nm, with an average size of 16.19 nm, as determined by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, TEM and EDX. A. esculentus flower extract-mediated silver nanoparticles (AME-AgNPs) exhibited excellent activities in vitro studies, particularly in vitro cytotoxic and antiproliferative studies against cancer cell lines, such as the TERT-4 and A-549 cell lines. The antibacterial effects on the Gram-positive pathogens Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus pyogenes and the Gram-negative pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium and Shigella sonnei were tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values varied with the bacterial strain. The IC50 values of the synthesized NPs for the tested cell lines were close to that of a standard drug.

CONCLUSION

Compared to other NPs the NPs synthesized in this study were smaller in size and exhibited a higher level of antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity and apoptosis at minimal concentrations, and this is the first study on okra flower-induced anticancer and antimicrobial activities.