Acridine Orange/Ethidium Bromide (AO/EB) Staining to Detect Apoptosis

Mikania micrantha silver nanoparticles exhibit anticancer activities against human lung adenocarcinoma via caspase-mediated apoptotic cell death

Green-mediated synthesis of nanoparticles has earned a promising role in the area of nanotechnology due to their biomedical applications. This study describes the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Mikania micrantha leaf extract and its functional activities against cancer. The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrum that exhibited an absorption band at 459 nm. The bioactive compounds of M. micrantha leaf extract that functioned as reducing and capping agents were confirmed by a shift in the absorption bands in Fourier Transform Infra-red Spectroscopy (FT-IR). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) studies validated the spherical shape and size of AgNPs, respectively. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed the presence of elemental silver. The crystalline nature of AgNPs was confirmed by the X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD). AgNPs effectively induced cytotoxicity and prevented A549 cell colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of A549 cells with AgNPs also increased DNA damage, which was coupled with elevated lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Following AgNPs treatment, the mRNA expression levels of the pro-apoptotic genes as well as the activities of caspases were significantly elevated in A549 cells while the expression levels of anti-apoptotic genes were downregulated. Our study demonstrates the potential of the synthesised AgNPs for cancer therapy possibly targeting the apoptotic pathway.

Comparative Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology Analysis Reveal Shared Neuroprotective Mechanisms of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst and Centella asiatica (L.) Urb

Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst and Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., two nootropics, are recognized in Indian Ayurvedic texts. Studies have attempted to understand their action as memory enhancers and neuroprotectants, but many molecular aspects remain unknown. We propose that Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst and Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. share common neuroprotective mechanisms. Mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics and network pharmacology approach were used to identify potential protein targets for the metabolites from each extract. Phytochemical analyses and cell culture validation studies were also used to assess apoptosis and ROS activity using aqueous extracts prepared from both herbal powders. Further, docking studies were also performed using the LibDock protocol. Untargeted metabolomics and network pharmacology approach unveiled 2751 shared metabolites and 3439 and 2928 non-redundant metabolites from Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica extracts, respectively, suggesting a potential common neuroprotective mechanism among these extracts. Protein-target prediction highlighted 92.4% similarity among the proteins interacting with metabolites for these extracts. Among them, kinases mapped to MAPK, mTOR, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways represented a predominant population. Our results highlight a significant similarity in the metabolome of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst and Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., and their potential protein targets may be attributed to their common neuroprotective functions.

Cell-penetrating protein-recognizing polymeric nanoparticles through dynamic covalent chemistry and double imprinting

Molecular recognition of proteins is key to their biological functions and processes such as protein-protein interactions (PPIs). The large binding interface involved and an often relatively flat binding surface make the development of selective protein-binding materials extremely challenging. A general method is reported in this work to construct protein-binding polymeric nanoparticles from cross-linked surfactant micelles. Preparation involves first dynamic covalent chemistry that encodes signature surface lysines on a protein template. A double molecular imprinting procedure fixes the binding groups on the nanoparticle for these lysine groups, meanwhile creating a binding interface complementary to the protein in size, shape, and distribution of acidic groups on the surface. These water-soluble nanoparticles possess excellent specificities for target proteins and sufficient affinities to inhibit natural PPIs such as those between cytochrome c (Cytc) and cytochrome c oxidase (CcO). With the ability to enter cells through a combination of energy-dependent and -independent pathways, they intervene apoptosis by inhibiting the PPI between Cytc and the apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (APAF1). Generality of the preparation and the excellent molecular recognition of the materials have the potential to make them powerful tools to probe protein functions in vitro and in cellulo.

Myrtenal exhibits cardioprotective effects by attenuating the pathological progression associated with myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction poses major risks to human health because of their incredibly high rates of morbidity and mortality. Infarctions are more likely to develop as a result of dysregulation of cell death. Myrtenal can be considered for their bioactive beneficial activity in the context of cardiovascular pathologies and, particularly, in the protection toward oxidative stress followed by ischemic injury.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to put limelight on the antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and antibacterial properties of Myrtenal.

METHODS

An in vitro model of oxidative stress-induced injury was entrenched in H9c2 cells using hydrogen peroxide, and the effects of Myrtenal were investigated. The MTT, cellular enzyme level, staining, and flow cytometry analysis were used to examine protective, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects. The gene expressions were detected by qPCR. Antibacterial effect and biofilm formation were also done.

RESULT

The findings revealed that Myrtenal alone had negligible cytotoxic effects and that Myrtenal protects H9c2 against H2 O2 -induced cell death at micromolar concentrations. Myrtenal pre-treatment inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as remarkably decreased the fluorescence intensity of ROS. Additionally, Myrtenal considerably increased the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes while dramatically decreasing the production of MDA and LDH. qPCR demonstrated the downregulation of Cas-9, TNF-α, NF-κB, P53, BAX, iNOS, and IL-6 expression while an upregulation of Bcl-2 expression in Myrtenal pre-treated groups. Myrtenal also holds the magnificent property of inhibiting bacterial growth.

CONCLUSION

Myrtenal ameliorates H2 O2 -induced cardiomyocyte injury and protects cardiomyocyte by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis and may be a promise drug for the treatment of heart diseases.

Development of Benzimidazole-Substituted Spirocyclopropyl Oxindole Derivatives as Cytotoxic Agents: Tubulin Polymerization Inhibition and Apoptosis Inducing Studies

A series of spirocyclopropyl oxindoles with benzimidazole substitutions was synthesized and tested for their cytotoxicity against selected human cancer cells. Most of the molecules exhibited significant antiproliferative activity with compound 12 p being the most potent. It exhibited significant cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells (IC50 value 3.14±0.50 μM), evidenced by the decrease in viable cells and increased apoptotic features during phase contrast microscopy, such as AO/EB, DAPI and DCFDA staining studies. Compound 12 p also inhibited cell migration in wound healing assay. Anticancer potential of 12 p was proved by the inhibition of tubulin polymerization with IC50 of 5.64±0.15 μM. These results imply the potential of benzimidazole substituted spirocyclopropyl oxindoles, notably 12 p, as cytotoxic agent for the treatment of breast cancer.

Nicotine promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition and gemcitabine resistance via hENT1/RRM1 signalling in pancreatic cancer and chemosensitizing effects of Embelin-a naturally occurring benzoquinone

Pancreatic cancer is lethal due to poor prognosis with 5-year survival rate lesser than 5 %. Gemcitabine is currently used to treat pancreatic cancer and development of chemoresistance is a major obstacle to overcome pancreatic cancer. Nicotine is a known inducer of drug resistance in pancreatic tumor micro-environment. Present study evaluates chemoresistance triggered by nicotine while treating with gemcitabine and chemosensitization using Embelin. Embelin is a naturally occurring benzoquinone from Embelia ribes possessing therapeutic potency. To develop nicotine-induced chemo-resistance, pancreatic cancer cells PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 were continuously treated with nicotine followed by exposure to gemcitabine. Gemcitabine sensitivity assay and immunoblotting was performed to assess the chemo-resistance. Antiproliferative assays such as migration assay, clonogenic assay, Mitochondrial Membrane Potential (MMP) assay, dual staining assay, comet assay, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) assay, cell cycle analysis and immunoblotting assays were performed to witness the protein expression involved in chemoresistance and chemosensitization. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition was observed in nicotine induced chemoresistant cells. Gemcitabine sensitivity assay revealed that relative resistance was increased to 6.26 (p < 0.0001) and 6.45 (p < 0.0001) folds in resistant PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 compared to parental cells. Protein expression studies confirmed resistance markers like hENT1 and dCK were downregulated with subsequent increase in RRM1 expression in resistant cells. Embelin considerably decreased the cell viability with an IC50 value of 4.03 ± 0.08 μM in resistant PANC-1 and 2.11 ± 0.04 μM in resistant MIA PaCa-2. Cell cycle analysis showed Embelin treatment caused cell cycle arrest at S phase in resistant PANC-1 cells; in resistant MIA PaCa-2 cells there was an escalation in the Sub G1. Embelin upregulated Bax, γH2AX, p53, ERK1/2 and hENT1 expression with concomitant down regulation of Bcl-2 and RRM1. Bioactive molecule embelin, its combination with gemcitabine could provide new vistas to overcome chemo resistance in pancreatic cancer.

Antimicrobial and antitumor properties of anuran peptide temporin-SHf induce apoptosis in A549 lung cancer cells

Temporin-SHf is a linear, ultra-short, hydrophobic, α-helix, and phe-rich cationic antimicrobial peptide. The antitumor activities and mechanism of temporin-SHf-induced cancer cell death are unknown. The temporin-SHf was synthesized by solid-phase Fmoc chemistry and antimicrobial and antitumor activities were investigated. Temporin-SHf was microbiocidal, non-hemolytic, and cytotoxic to human cancer cells but not to non-tumorigenic cells. It affected the cancer cells' lysosomal integrity and caused cell membrane damage. The temporin-SHf inhibited A549 cancer cell proliferation and migration. It is anti-angiogenic and causes cancer cell death through apoptosis. The molecular mechanism of action of temporin-SHf confirmed that it kills cancer cells by triggering caspase-dependent apoptosis through an intrinsic mitochondrial pathway. Owing to its short length and broad spectrum of antitumor activity, temporin-SHf is a promising candidate for developing a new class of anticancer drugs.

Design, development, and evaluation of CDK-4/6 inhibitor loaded 4-carboxy phenyl boronic acid conjugated pH-sensitive chitosan lecithin nanoparticles in the management of breast cancer

Our main aim to design and develop a novel 4-carboxy phenyl boronic acid (4-CPBA) conjugated Palbociclib (PALB) loaded pH-sensitive chitosan lipid nanoparticles (PPCL) to enhance the anti-cancer efficacy of the PALB in in-vitro cell line studies by loading into 4-CPBA conjugated chitosan lipid nanoparticles. 4-CPBA was conjugated to chitosan by carbodiimide chemistry and formation of conjugate was confirmed by 1HNMR, ATR-FTIR spectroscopic techniques. Ionic-gelation method was used for the fabrication of PPCL and particles size, PDI, zeta potential were found to be 226.5 ± 4.3 nm, 0.271 ± 0.014 and 5.03 ± 0.42 mV. Presence of pH-sensitive biological macromolecule i.e. chitosan in the carrier system provides pH-sensitivity to PPCL and sustainedly released the drug upto 144 h. The PPCL exhibited approximately 7.2, 6.6, and 5-fold reduction in IC50 values than PALB in MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells. Receptor blocking assay concluded that the fabricated nanoparticles were internalized into MCF-7 cells might be through sialic acid-mediated endocytosis. PPCL caused extensive mitochondrial depolarization, enhanced ROS generation, apoptosis (DAPI nuclear staining, acridine orange/ ethidium bromide dual staining), and reduced % cell migration than pure PALB. It was concluded that the hybrid lipid-polymer nanoparticles provides an optimistic approach for the treatment of breast cancer.

Study the anticancer efficacy of doxorubicin-loaded redox-responsive chitosan-derived nanoparticles in the MDA-MB-231 cell line

This study focuses on the design and evaluation of redox-responsive nanoparticles (NPs) by synthesizing disulfide-containing N-phthaloyl chitosan-SS-methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (NPC-SS-mPEG) and incorporating the anti-cancer drug doxorubicin into the NPs. The structural features of NPC-SS-mPEG were investigated using FTIR, NMR, XRD, and TGA/DTA analysis. DLS and TEM analysis confirmed the particle size and morphology of the NPs. The stability of the NPs was measured with the presence and absence of glutathione (GSH) in buffers pH 5 and 7.4. Furthermore, the release of DOX from the NPs was studied in GSH (10 mM) containing/absent medium at pH 5 and pH 7.4 which mimics the intracellular environment with redox potential. The results indicated a significantly increased release of DOX in the GSH containing medium pH 5 (82.9 ± 2.1 %) and pH 7.4 (67.37 ± 0.88 %) compared to the GSH free pH 7.4 (29.99 ± 1.01 %) and pH 5 medium (56.56 ± 1.7 %) at 60 h. The cytotoxicity study in the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line by MTT assay indicated higher toxicity of redox-responsive NPs to cancer cells than free DOX. In concurrence with the cytotoxicity assay, in-vitro fluorescence staining assays (AO/EB, Hoechst, ROS generation) also confirmed that NPs loaded with DOX induce higher toxicity to cancer cells than free DOX. Taken together, the overall results confirmed the superiority of the redox response-mediated release of DOX in effectively controlling cancer progression.

Chitosan/alginate nanogel potentiate berberine uptake and enhance oxidative stress mediated apoptotic cell death in HepG2 cells

Biopolymer-based nanoscale drug delivery systems have become a promising approach to overcome the limitations associated with conventional chemotherapeutics used for cancer treatment. Herein, we reported to develop a hydrophilic nanogel (NG) composed of Chitosan (Chi) and sodium alginate (Alg) using the ion gelation method for delivering Berberine hydrochloride (BBR), an alkaloid obtained from Berberis aristata roots. The use of different nanocarriers for BBR delivery has been reported previously, but the bioavailability of these carriers was limited due to phagocytic uptake and poor systemic delivery. The developed NG showed enhanced stability and efficient entrapment of BBR ∼92 %, resulting in a significant increase in bioavailability. The pH-dependent release behavior demonstrated sustained and effective release of ∼86 %, ∼74 % and, ∼53 % BBR at pH 5.5, 6.6, and 7.4 respectively after 72h, indicating its potential as a drug carrier. Additionally, the cellular uptake of BBR was significantly higher ∼19 % in the BBR-NG (25 μM) than in bulk BBR (100 μM), leading to enhanced ROS generation, mitochondrial depolarisation, and inhibition of cell proliferation and colony formation in HepG2 cells. In summary, the results suggest that the Chi/Alg biopolymer-based nano-formulation could be an effective approach for delivering BBR and enhancing its cellular uptake, efficacy, and cytotoxicity.

Coleus vettiveroides ethanolic root extract induces cytotoxicity by intrinsic apoptosis in HepG2 cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) contributes to more than 80% of all primary cancers globally and ranks fourth in cancer-related deaths, due to the lack of an effective, definite therapeutic drug. Coleus vettiveroides (CV) has been used in Indian traditional medicine to treat diabetes, liver ailments, skin diseases, leukoderma, and leprosy. This study investigates the anticancer effect of CV ethanolic root extract in HepG2 cells. HepG2 cells were treated with CV extract, and its cytotoxicity was analyzed by MTT assay. AO/EB staining, propidium iodide staining, DCFH-DA assay, phalloidine staining, flow cytometry, and qPCR studies were performed for ROS expression, apoptosis and cell cycle analysis. The phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of quercetin and galangin in CV root extract. The results showed that CV inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells, with altered cellular and nuclear morphology. CV was also found to increase intracellular ROS levels and oxidative stress markers in HepG2 cells. CV significantly altered the actin microfilament distribution in HepG2 cells and caused cell cycle arrest at the sub G0 -G1 phase. CV also induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, as evidenced by increased expression of p53, Bax, cytochrome C, Apaf-1, PARP, caspase-3 and caspase-9, and downregulated Bcl-2 expression. Therefore, CV exerts its anticancer effect by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, cytoskeletal disorganization, cell cycle arrest, and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, and it could be a potent therapeutic option for HCC.

Cancer reduction in mice with Prakasine nanomedicine immunotherapy

In this study, non-toxic mercury nanoparticle Prakasine (PRK-NP) was synthesized as per 'Prakash theory of metal drugs' and nanoparticle's non toxicity has been demonstrated by employing in vitro MTT (dose = 320ug/ml), SBR (dose = 80ug/ml) and apoptosis assays (dose = 320ug/ml), and in vivo acute and chronic toxicity studies in mice (n = 12, dose = 900 mg/kg body weight oral), rat (n = 14, dose = 500 mg/kg body weight oral for 18 months), rabbit (n = 14, dose = 500 mg/kg body weight oral for 18 months) and dogs (n = 14, dose = 500 mg/kg body weight oral for 18 months). The MTT, SBR and apoptosis assays established no cytotoxicity, no genotoxicity and no cytolytic anticancer effects. The mice, rat, rabbit and dog studies also indicated nontoxicity. The PRK-NPs significantly reduced the breast cancer tumour in murine mammary tumour - C3H/HeJ model 35% and 43.7% in mice at doses of 200 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg respectively. Also, in xenograft mammary tumour mice model the tumour regressions are 25.7% and 83% in the doses of 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg respectively, compared to standard positive control drugs without any adverse effects and toxicity. Thus, the current study beholds anticipation PRK-NPs may play a vital role in therapeutic.

Benzimidazole derivatives as tubulin polymerization inhibitors: Design, synthesis and in vitro cytotoxicity studies

A new class of benzimidazole derivatives as tubulin polymerization inhibitors has been designed and synthesized in this study. The in vitro anticancer profile of the developed molecules was reconnoitred on selected human cancer cells. The highest cytotoxicity was illustrated by compounds 7n and 7u with IC50 values ranging from 2.55 to 17.89 µM with specificity toward SK-Mel-28 cells. They displayed 5-fold less cytotoxicity towards normal rat kidney epithelial NRK52E cells, which implies that they are not harmful to normal, healthy cells. The cellular staining procedures like AO/EB, DCFDA, and DAPI were applied to comprehend the inherent mechanism of apoptosis which displayed nuclear and morphological alterations. The Annexin V binding and JC-1 studies were executed to evaluate the extent of apoptosis and the decline in mitochondrial transmembrane potential in SK-Mel-28 cell lines. Compound 7n dose-dependently arrested the G2/M phase of the cell cycle and the target-based outcomes proposed tubulin polymerization inhibition by 7n (IC50 of 5.05±0.13 μM). Computational studies were also conducted on the tubulin protein (PDB ID: 3E22) to investigate the stabilized binding interactions of compounds 7n and 7u with tubulin, respectively.

The Effect of Berberine Follow by Blue Light Irradiation and Valproic Acid on the Growth Inhibition of MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer after lung cancer in the world. Due to the anti-cancer properties of Berberine (Ber), in this study, the effect of combination therapy of Ber in the presence of blue LED irradiation and Valproic acid (Val) on the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line was investigated. For this reason, after culturing the cells using different concentrations of Ber and Val, breast cancer cells were treated in both mono-treatment and combination therapy. In combination therapy, two modes were considered: (1) treatment with Val and then treatment with Ber in the dark or in presence of blue light irradiation (PDT)at a wavelength of 465 nm and energy of 30 J/cm2 for 15 min, and (2) treatment with Ber in the dark or PDT and then treated with Val. In all cases, cell viability, morphological changes, and colonization were assessed. Evaluation of apoptosis was performed by fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry. According to the results, combination therapy has a higher mortality rate compared to mono-treatment, and in combination therapy, treatment of cells first with Ber (10 µg/mL)-PDT and then treatment with Val (250 µg/mL) caused a significant reduction (P < 0/05) in the survival rate of cancer cells. According to the findings, it can be said that the use of Ber-PDT in combination with Val, in addition to reducing the dose of the drug, has shown a synergistic effect which can suggest the potential of this strategy as a new treatment.

Precise Construction of Dual-Promising Anticancer Drugs Associated with Gold Nanomaterials on Glioma Cancer Cells

Multiple chemodrugs with nanotechnology have proven to be an effective cancer treatment technique. When taken combined, cabazitaxel (CTX) and cisplatin (PT) have more excellent cytotoxic effects than drugs used alone in the chemotherapy of several different cancers. However, several severe side effects are associated with using these chemotherapy drugs in cancer patients. Gold nanomaterials (AuNMs) are promising as drug carriers because of their small diameter, easy surface modifications, good biocompatibility, and strong cell penetration. This work aimed to determine the CTX and PT encapsulated with AuNMs against human glioma U87 cancer cells. The fabrication of the AuNMs achieved a negative surface charge, polydispersity index, and the mean sizes. The combined cytotoxic effect of CTX and PT bound to AuNMs was greater than that of either drug alone when tested on U87 cells. The half inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for free PT were 54.7 μg/mL (at 24 h) and 4.8 g μg/mL (at 72 h). Results acquired from the MTT assay show cell growth decreases time- and concentration-dependent AuNMs, free CTX, free PT, and AuNMs@CTX/PT-induced cytotoxicity and, ultimately, the cell death of U87 cells via apoptosis. The biochemical apoptosis staining techniques investigated the cells' morphological changes of the cells (acridine orange and ethidium bromide (AO-EB) and nuclear staining (DAPI) techniques). The AO-EB and nuclear staining results reveal that the NPs effectively killed cancer cells. Furthermore, the flow cytometry analysis examined the mode of cell death. Therefore, AuNMs@CTX/PT has excellent potential in the cancer therapy of different cancer cells.

Improvement and enhancement of oligosaccharide production from Lactobacillus acidophilus using statistical experimental designs and its inhibitory effect on colon cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third cause of death by cancers worldwide and is one of the most common cancer types reported in both Egypt and the United States. The use of probiotics as a dietary therapy is increasing either as a prevention or as a treatment for many diseases, particularly, in the case of CRC. The increasing acceptance of lactic acid bacterial (LAB) oligosaccharides as bioactive agents has led to an increase in the demand for the large-scale production of LAB-oligosaccharides using fermentation technology. Therefore, in the current study, we are using the Plackett- Burman design (PBD) approach, where sixteen experimental trials were applied to optimize the production of the target oligosaccharide LA-EPS-20079 from Lactobacillus acidophilus. Glucose, yeast extract and sodium acetate trihydrate were the top three significant variables influencing LA-EPS production. The maximum concentration of LA-EPS-20079 achieved by L. acidophilus was 526.79 μg/ml. Furthermore, Box-Behnken design (BBD) as response surface methodology (RSM) was used to complete the optimization procedure. The optimal levels of the chosen variables which were 30.0 g/l, glucose; 5 g/l, yeast extract and 10.0 g/l sodium acetate trihydrate with the predicted LA-EPS-20079 concentration of 794.82 μg/ml. Model validity reached 99.93% when the results were verified. Both optimized trials showed great cytotoxic effects against colon cancer line (CaCo-2) with inhibition percentages ranging from 64.6 to 81.9%. Moreover, downregulation in the expression level of BCL2 and Survivin genes was found with a fold change of 3.377 and 21.38, respectively. Finally, we concluded that the optimized LA-EPS-20079 has maintained its anticancer effect against the CaCo-2 cell line that was previously reported by our research group.

Enhancing Anti-cancer Activity: Green Synthesis and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Turmeric-Gold Nanocapsules on A549 Lung Cancer Cells

Background Lung cancer remains a major global health concern, with a notable increase in new cases in recent years. This study aims to investigate the cytotoxic effects of polymeric turmeric-gold nanocapsules on A549 human lung cancer cells, utilizing green-synthesized gold nanoparticles from Curcuma longa L. and ethyl cellulose-based nanocapsules. Methods Gold nanoparticles were synthesized using the aqueous root extract of Curcuma longa L., and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) techniques. Subsequently, polymeric nanocapsules of turmeric with encapsulated gold nanoparticles were prepared. The cytotoxicity of these nanocapsules was evaluated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on both A549 lung cancer cell lines and normal cell lines. Results The turmeric-gold nanocapsules exhibited a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 40 μg/ml, while the gold nanoparticles alone showed an IC50 value of 60 μg/ml when tested on A549 cells. Furthermore, apoptosis was observed in A549 cells treated with turmeric-gold nanocapsules. The combination of gold nanoparticles and turmeric polymer (gold turmeric nanocapsules) demonstrated a more potent anti-cancer effect on the lung cancer cell line, with an IC50 value of 40 μg/ml compared to green-synthesized gold nanoparticles (IC50 of 60 μg/ml). Conclusion The utilization of polymeric nanocapsules of turmeric, with green-synthesized gold nanoparticles, presents a promising solution to overcome the limited water solubility of turmeric. The results suggest that the combination of gold nanoparticles and turmeric enhances the cytotoxic effects on A549 human lung cancer cells. These findings contribute to the potential application of turmeric-gold nanocapsules as a novel therapeutic approach in lung cancer research.

Ru(II)-p-Cymene Complexes of Furoylthiourea Ligands for Anticancer Applications against Breast Cancer Cells

Half-sandwich Ru(II) complexes containing nitro-substituted furoylthiourea ligands, bearing the general formula [(η⁶-p-cymene)RuCl₂(L)] (1-6) and [(η⁶-p-cymene)RuCl(L)(PPh₃)]⁺ (7--12), have been synthesized and characterized. In contrast to the spectroscopic data which revealed monodentate coordination of the ligands to the Ru(II) ion via a "S" atom, single crystal X-ray structures revealed an unusual bidentate N, S coordination with the metal center forming a four-membered ring. Interaction studies by absorption, emission, and viscosity measurements revealed intercalation of the Ru(II) complexes with calf thymus (CT) DNA. The complexes showed good interactions with bovine serum albumin (BSA) as well. Further, their cytotoxicity was explored exclusively against breast cancer cells, namely, MCF-7, T47-D, and MDA-MB-231, wherein all of the complexes were found to display more pronounced activity than their ligand counterparts. Complexes 7-12 bearing triphenylphosphine displayed significant cytotoxicity, among which complex 12 showed IC₅₀ values of 0.6 ± 0.9, 0.1 ± 0.8, and 0.1 ± 0.2 μM against MCF-7, T47-D, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, respectively. The most active complexes were tested for their mode of cell death through staining assays, which confirmed apoptosis. The upregulation of apoptotic inducing and downregulation of apoptotic suppressing proteins as inferred from the western blot analysis also corroborated the apoptotic mode of cell death. The active complexes effectively generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in MDA-MB-231 cells as analyzed from the 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) staining. Finally, in vivo studies of the highly active complexes (6 and 12) were performed on the mice model. Histological analyses revealed that treatment with these complexes at high doses of up to 8 mg/kg did not induce any visible damage to the tested organs.

Green Synthesised TiO2 Nanoparticles-Mediated Terenna asiatica: Evaluation of Their Role in Reducing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Human Breast Cancer Proliferation

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation interplay with the pathogenesis of cancer. Breast cancer in women is the burning issue of this century, despite chemotherapy and magnetic therapy. The management of secondary complications triggered by post-chemotherapy poses a great challenge. Thus, identifying target-specific drugs with anticancer potential without secondary complications is a challenging task for the scientific community. It is possible that green technology has been employed in a greater way in order to fabricate nanoparticles by amalgamating plants with medicinal potential with metal oxide nanoparticles that impart high therapeutic properties with the least toxicity. Thus, the present study describes the synthesis of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) using aqueous Terenna asiatica fruit extract, with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The characterisation of TiO₂ NPs was carried out using a powdered X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta-potential. TiO₂ NPs showed their antioxidant property by scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals in a dose-dependent manner with an IC₅₀ value of 80.21 µg/µL. To ascertain the observed antioxidant potential of TiO₂ NPs, red blood cells (RBC) were used as an in vitro model system. Interestingly, TiO₂ NPs significantly ameliorated all the stress parameters, such as lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl content (PCC), total thiol (TT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in sodium nitrite (NaNO₂)-induced oxidative stress, in RBC. Furthermore, TiO₂ NPs inhibited RBC membrane lysis and the denaturation of both egg and bovine serum albumin, significantly in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting its anti-inflammatory property. Interestingly, TiO₂ NPs were found to kill the MCF-7 cells as a significant decrease in cell viability of the MCF-7 cell lines was observed. The percentage of growth inhibition of the MCF-7 cells was compared to that of untreated cells at various doses (12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL). The IC₅₀ value of TiO₂ NPs was found to be (120 µg/mL). Furthermore, the Annexin V/PI staining test was carried out to confirm apoptosis. The assay indicated apoptosis in cancer cells after 24 h of exposure to TiO₂ NPs (120 µg/mL). The untreated cells showed no significant apoptosis in comparison with the standard drug doxorubicin. In conclusion, TiO₂ NPs potentially ameliorate NaNO₂-induced oxidative stress in RBC, inflammation and MCF-7 cells proliferation.

New apoptotic anti-triple-negative breast cancer theobromine derivative inhibiting EGFRWT and EGFRT790M: in silico and in vitro evaluation

A new theobromine-derived EGFR inhibitor (2-(3,7-Dimethyl-2,6-dioxo-2,3,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-purin-1-yl)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)acetamide) has been developed that has the essential structural characteristics to interact with EGFR's pocket. The designed compound is 2,6-di ortho methylphenyl)acetamide derivative of the well-known alkaloid, theobromine, (T-1-DOMPA). Firstly, deep DFT studies have been conducted to study the optimized chemical structure, molecular orbital and chemical reactivity analysis of T-1-DOMPA. Then, T-1-DOMPA's anticancer potentialities were estimated first through a structure-based computational approach. Utilizing molecular docking, molecular dynamics, MD, simulations over 100 ns, MM-PBSA and PLIP studies, T-1-DOMPA bonded to and inhibited the EGFR protein effectively. Subsequently, the ADMET profiles of T-1-DOMPA were computed before preparation, and its drug-likeness was anticipated. Therefore, T-1-DOMPA was prepared for the purposes of scrutinizing both the design and the results obtained in silico. The in vitro potential of T-1-DOMPA against triple-negative breast cancer cell lines, MDA- MB-231, was very promising with an IC₅₀ value of1.8 µM, comparable to the reference drug (0.9 µM), and a much higher selectivity index of 2.6. Interestingly, T-1-DOMPA inhibited three other cancer cell lines (CaCO-2, HepG-2, and A549) with IC₅₀ values of 1.98, 2.53, and 2.39 µM exhibiting selectivity index values of 2,4, 1.9, and 2, respectively. Additionally, T-1-DOMPA prevented effectively the MDA-MB-231cell line's healing and migration abilities. Also, T-1-DOMPA's abilities to induce apoptosis were confirmed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining assay. Finally, T-1-DOMPA caused an up-regulation of the gene expression of the apoptotic gene, Caspase-3, in the treated MDA-MB-231cell.

Pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine Sulfonamides as Novel Potential Anticancer Agents: Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and Cell Cycle Analysis

The current study continues the evaluation of the anticancer potential of three de novo synthesized pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine sulfonamides-MM129, MM130, and MM131-against human cancer cells of HeLa, HCT 116, PC-3, and BxPC-3 lines. The pro-apoptotic activity of the investigated sulfonamides was shown by observations of changes in the mitochondrial transmembrane potential of the tested cells, externalization of phosphatidylserine on the cellular membrane surface, and cell morphology in microscopic imaging. The computational studies have shown that MM129 exhibited the lowest binding energy values when docked against CDK enzymes. In addition, the highest stability was shown for complexes formed between MM129 and CDK5/8 enzymes. All examined compounds induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase in the BxPC-3 and PC-3 cells and simultaneously caused the accumulation of cells in the S phase in the HCT 116 cells. In addition, the increase in the subG1 fraction was observed in PC-3 and HeLa cells. The application of a fluorescent H₂DCFDA probe revealed the high pro-oxidative properties of the tested triazine derivatives, especially MM131. In conclusion, the obtained results suggest that MM129, MM130, and MM131 exhibited strong pro-apoptotic properties towards investigated cells, mainly against the HeLa and HCT 116 cell lines, and high pro-oxidative potential as well. Moreover, it is suggested that the anticancer activity of the tested compounds may be associated with their ability to inhibit CDK enzymes activities.

Toxicity Effects of Polystyrene Nanoplastics with Different Sizes on Freshwater Microalgae Chlorella vulgaris

The ubiquitous nature of plastics, particularly nanoplastics, raises concern about their potential effects on primary producer microalgae. Currently, the impacts and potential mechanisms of nanoplastics on microalgae are not fully understood. In this study, the effects of two plain commercial polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) with different sizes (50 nm and 70 nm) on C. vulgaris were assessed in a concentration range of 0-50 mg/L during 72 h exposure periods. Results revealed that both PS-NPs have dose-dependent toxicity effects on C. vulgaris, as confirmed by the decrease of growth rates, chlorophyll a and esterase activities, and the increase of ROS, MDA, and membrane damage. The membrane damage was caused by the agglomeration of PS-NPs on microalgae and may be the key reason for the toxicity. Compared with 70 nm PS-NPs (72 h EC₅₀ >50 mg/L), 50 nm PS-NPs posed greater adverse effects on algae, with an EC_50-72h of 19.89 mg/L. FTIR results also proved the stronger variation of macromolecules in the 50 nm PS-NPs treatment group. This phenomenon might be related to the properties of PS-NPs in exposure medium. The lower absolute zeta potential value of 50 nm PS-NPs induced the stronger interaction between PS-NPs and algae as compared to 70 nm PS-NPs, leading to severe membrane damage and the loss of esterase activity as well as settlement. These findings emphasized the importance of considering the impacts of commercial PS-NPs properties in toxicity evaluation.

Regioselective synthesis and in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation of 3-thiooxindole derivatives: Tubulin polymerization inhibition and apoptosis inducing studies

Herein, regiospecific nucleophilic ring-opening of spiroaziridine oxindoles has been established to afford 3-substituted-thiooxindole derivatives as anticancer agents. Among the new series, compounds 7d and 9c exhibited promising cytotoxic activity toward HCT-116 cells with IC₅₀ values of 6.73 ± 0.36 and 6.64 ± 0.95 µM, respectively. Further, AO/EB, DCFDA, and DAPI staining studies were executed to establish the underlying apoptosis mechanism which displayed significant nuclear and morphological alterations. JC-1 staining and annexin V binding assay inferred the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in HCT-116 cancer cells. Cell cycle analysis showed the treatment of 9c against HCT-116 cells, arrested the cell cycle in G2-M phase. In addition, tubulin binding assay revealed that compound 9c exhibited tubulin polymerase inhibition with IC₅₀ value of 9.73 ± 0.18 μM. This inhibition of tubulin polymerase was further supported by binding interactions of 9c with tubulin through docking studies on PDB ID: 3E22.

An anti-leishmanial compound 4',7-dihydroxyflavone elicits ROS-mediated apoptosis-like death in Leishmania parasite

The treatment for leishmaniasis is currently plagued by side effects such as toxicity and the emergence of drug resistance to the available repertoire of drugs, as well as the expense of these drugs. Considering such rising concerns, we report the anti-leishmanial activity and mechanism of a flavone compound 4',7-dihydroxyflavone (TI 4). Four flavanoids were initially screened for anti-leishmanial activity and cytotoxicity. The results showed that the compound TI 4 exhibited higher activity and selectivity index at the same time as maintaining low cytotoxicity. Preliminary microscopic studies and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis reported that the parasite underwent apoptosis on TI 4 treatment. Further in-depth studies revealed high reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and thiol levels in the parasites, suggesting ROS-mediated apoptosis in the parasites upon TI 4 treatment. Other apoptotic indicators such as intracellular Ca²⁺ and mitochondrial membrane potential also indicated the onset of apoptosis in the treated parasites. The mRNA expression levels signified that the redox metabolism genes were upregulated by two-fold along with the apoptotic genes. In summary, the use of TI 4 on Leishmania parasites induces ROS-mediated apoptosis; therefore, the compound has immense potential to be an anti-leishmanial drug. However, in vivo studies would be required to ascertain its safety and efficacy before we can exploit the compound against the growing leishmaniasis crisis.

Comparative study of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized through biogenic and chemical route with reference to antibacterial, antibiofilm and anticancer activities

The present focused on comparative study on synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using chemical method via alkaline precipitation method (ZnO(A) NPs) using NaOH and biogenic method using termite mound extract (ZnO(B) NPs). GC-MS analysis revealed that D-limonene present in termite mound extract might be responsible for the synthesis of ZnO(B) NPs. XRD patterns confirmed hexagonal crystalline structure of ZnO(A) and (B) NPs. Results of antibacterial activity illustrated that ZnO(B) NPs showed its potential against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ESBL-1, ESBL-2 and EBSL-3. Antibiofilm studies revealed that ZnO(B) NPs exhibited optimum decline in MRSA biofilm formation than ZnO(A) NPs. In addition, ZnO(B) NPs showed potent cytotoxic effect against lung cancer cell lines A549 with IC₅₀ of 35.16 ± 0.10 μg/mL in comparison with ZnO(A) NPs (IC_50- 55.09 ± 0.30 μg/mL). Overall, the results revealed that biogenic synthesis of ZnO NPs ensures its biosafety level and enhanced biological activity when compared to chemical synthesis method.

Tail approach synthesis of triazolylthiazolotriazole bearing benzenesulfonamides as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors capable of inducing apoptosis

Inhibition of human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) isoform IX with concurrent induction of apoptosis is a promising approach for targeting cancer in humans. Prompted by the scope, novel benzenesulfonamides containing the 1,2,3-triazolylthiazolotriazole tail were synthesized and screened as inhibitors of hCA isoforms I, II, IV, and IX. The tumor-associated isoform hCA IX was strongly inhibited by the sulfonamides reported here with K_I values ranging from 45 nM to 1.882 μM. Overall, nine compounds showed hCA IX inhibition with K_I  < 250 nM. The glaucoma-associated isoform hCA II was moderately inhibited while the cytosolic isoform hCA I and membrane-bound isoform hCA IV were weakly inhibited by the synthesized sulfonamides. Compound 6Ac (K_I  = 3.6 nM) was found to be an almost three times more potent inhibitor of hCA II as compared to the standard drug acetazolamide (K_I  = 12.1 nM). The selective hCA IX inhibitors were further studied for their apoptotic efficacy in goat ovarian cells and showed better results as compared to the control. A comparative study of previously synthesized compounds and molecular docking study of representative compounds revealed some important generalizations that could prove beneficial in further investigations of isoform-selective hCA inhibitors.

Olive leaves extract alleviates inflammation and modifies the intrinsic apoptotic signal in the leukemic bone marrow

Introduction

Current anti-leukemic chemotherapies with multiple targets suffer from side effects. Synthetic drugs with huge off-target effects are detrimental to leukemic patients. Therefore, natural plant-based products are being increasingly tested for new anti-leukemic therapy with fewer or no side effects. Herein, we report the effect of ethanolic olive leaves extract (EOLE) on the K562 cell line and on the bone marrow (BM) of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU)-induced leukemic mice.

Methods

Using standard methodologies, we assessed viability, chromatin condensation, and induction of apoptosis in EOLE-treated K562 cells in-vitro. The anti-leukemic activity of EOLE was assayed by measuring ROS, levels of various cytokines, expression of iNOS and COX-2 gene, and changes in the level of important apoptosis regulatory and cell signaling proteins in-vivo.

Result

K562 cells underwent apoptotic induction after exposure to EOLE. In the BM of leukemic mice, EOLE therapy decreased the number of blast cells, ROS generation, and expression of NF-κB and ERK1/2. IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, and COX-2 were among the inflammatory molecules that were down-regulated by EOLE therapy. Additionally, it decreased the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins BCL2A1, BCL-xL, and MCL-1 in the BM of leukemic mice.

Discussion

Chronic inflammation and anomalous apoptotic mechanism both critically contribute to the malignant transformation of cells. Inflammation in the tumor microenvironment promotes the growth, survival, and migration of cancer cells, accelerating the disease. The current investigation showed that EOLE treatment reduces inflammation and alters the expression of apoptosis regulatory protein in the BM of leukemic mice, which may halt the progression of the disease.

Aptamer Tethered Bio-Responsive Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Efficient Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel to Treat Ovarian Cancer Cells

Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in female patients. The current therapeutics in ovarian cancer are limited and inefficient in curing the disease. To tackle this, we have synthesized tetrasulfide derivative of silica doped, biodegradable, glutathione-responsive targeted mesoporous silica nanoparticles modified with heterobifunctional polyethylene glycol as a linker and mucin-1 aptamer for triggered paclitaxel delivery to the ovarian cancer cells. Degradable mesoporous silica nanoparticles were synthesized by a modified sol-gel method with tetraethyl orthosilicate and Bis (triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide. The degradable mesoporous silica nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy and Transmission electron microscopy. The degradable mesoporous silica nanoparticles had good paclitaxel encapsulation efficiency and glutathione-responsive paclitaxel release ability. The glutathione utilization assay and visual destruction observed within 10 days in transmission electron microscopy images confirmed the degradation of the mesoporous silica nanoparticles in the tumor cell environment. The targeted degradable mesoporous silica nanoparticles were efficiently taken up by ovarian cancer cell lines OVACAR-3 and PA-1. The cytotoxicity of bare mesoporous silica nanoparticles evaluated on NIH-3T3 cell line showed good biocompatibility (>90% cell viability). Significant toxicity on OVACAR-3 (IC₅₀ 25.66 nM) and PA-1 (IC₅₀ 42.93 nM) cell lines was observed when treated with paclitaxel-loaded targeted degradable mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Results of this study demonstrated that mucin-1 targeted, glutathione-responsive mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with paclitaxel had a significant antitumor effect on ovarian cancer cells. All these findings demonstrated that developed nano-formulation could be suitable for ovarian cancer treatment.

Biocompatibility enhancement via post-processing of microporous scaffolds made by optical 3D printer

Providing a 3D environment that mimics the native extracellular matrix is becoming increasingly important for various applications such as cell function studies, regenerative medicine, and drug discovery. Among the most critical parameters to consider are the scaffold's complicated micro-scale geometry and material properties. Therefore, stereolithography based on photopolymerization is an emerging technique because of its ability to selectively form volumetric structures from liquid resin through localized polymerization reactions. However, one of the most important parameters of the scaffold is biocompatibility, which depends not only on the material but also on the exposure conditions and post-processing, which is currently underestimated. To investigate this systematically, microporous scaffolds with pore sizes of 0.05 mm³ corresponding to a porosity of 16,4% were fabricated using the stereolithography printer Asiga PICO2 39 UV from the widely used resins FormLabs Clear and Flexible. The use of various polymers is usually limited for cells because, after wet chemical development, the non-negligible amount of remaining monomers intertwined in the photopolymerized structures is significantly toxic to cells. Therefore, the aim of this research was to find the best method to remove monomers from the 3D scaffold by additional UV exposure. For this purpose, a Soxhlet extractor was used for the first time, and the monomers were immersed in different alcohols. A Raman microspectroscopy was also used to investigate whether different post-processing methods affect DC (cross-linking) to find out if this specifically affects the biocompatibility of the scaffolds. Finally, mesenchymal stem cells from rat dental pulp were examined to confirm the increased biocompatibility of the scaffolds and their ability to support cell differentiation into bone tissue cells.

Artabotrys odoratissimus Bark Extract Restores Ethanol Induced Redox Imbalance and Toxicity in Hepatocytes and In Vivo Model

Alcohol-induced oxidative stress is a key player in the development of liver diseases, and herbal alternatives are important means of ameliorating the hepatotoxic effects. The study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potentiality of Artabotrys odoratissimus, an important medicinal shrub from the family Annonaceae. The phenolic compounds from bark ethanol extract (BEE) were detected using RP-HPLC. The in vitro hepatoprotective activity against ethanol-induced damage was studied in HepG2 cells with cell viability assays, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, double staining assay and western blotting. The in vivo mice model was used to evaluate the alcohol-induced stress with liver function enzymes, lipid profile and histopathology. All the thirteen phenolic compounds detected with HPLC were docked onto protein targets such as aspartate amino transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NO). The RP-HPLC detected the presence of various phenolics including rutin, chlorogenic acid and catechin, amongst others. Co-administration of BEE with ethanol alleviated cell death, ROS and MMP in HepG2 cells compared to the negative control. The extract also modulated the MAP kinase/caspase-3 pathway, thereby showing protective effects in HepG2 cells. Also, pre-treatment for 14 days with the extract in the mice model before a single toxic dose (5 g/kg body weight) reduced the liver injury by bringing the levels of liver function enzymes, lipid profile and bilirubin to near normal. In silico analysis revealed that rutin showed the best binding affinity with all the target proteins in the study. These results provide evidence that BEE possesses significant hepatoprotective effects against ethanol-induced oxidative stress in hepatic cells and in vivo models, which is further validated with in silico analysis.

Self-assembled amphiphilic copolymers-doxorubicin conjugated nanoparticles for gastric cancer therapy with low in vivo toxicity and high efficacy

Amphiphilic copolymers have long been utilized to turn hydrophobic anticancer drugs into nanoparticles administered to patients with cancer. A lack of stability in these monotherapies may be blamed for their poor clinical results in patients with cancer. We propose novel nanotherapies based on polymeric small prodrugs that preserve pharmacologic effectiveness while significantly reducing the toxicity of the fabricated drugs in animals to overcome this problem. Doxorubicin is attached to the end of the PLA fragments through a hydrolyzable ester bond utilizing methoxypolyethylene glycol-block-poly(d, l-lactic acid) (mPEG-PCL(2K)) with conjugates to mimic the self-assembly of colloidal nanotherapies. In a gastric cancer xenograft model, this nanotherapy displays a long-lasting suppression of tumor growth once a reasonable dosage is administered. Our findings imply that a toxic chemical and hydrophobic can be converted into therapeutic effective self-delivery nanotreatment.

Impact of N-Acetylcysteine and Antibiotics Against Single and Dual Species Biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Achromobacter xylosoxidans

Lungs of cystic fibrosis patients are often colonized or infected with organisms, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other emerging pathogenic bacteria such as Achromobacter xylosoxidans. Further, it is well established that infections of the cystic fibrosis lung airways are caused by polymicrobial infections, although its composition and diversity may change throughout the patient's life. In the present study, we investigated the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and amikacin, aztreonam, ciprofloxacin, and tobramycin alone and in combination against single- and dual-species biofilms of P. aeruginosa and A. xylosoxidans, in vitro and in the Caenorhabditis elegans infection model. Results showed that tobramycin and ciprofloxacin were the most effective antibiotics, while aztreonam was the least effective antibiotic against both single- and dual-species biofilms of P. aeruginosa and A. xylosoxidans. However, NAC showed little effect on both single- and dual-species, even with a combination of antibiotics. Increased survival was observed in C. elegans when treated with NAC in combination with tobramycin or ciprofloxacin, compared to no treatment or NAC alone. Tobramycin and ciprofloxacin were found effective in biofilms, but more research is needed to better understand the effects of NAC and antibiotics against single- and dual-species biofilms.

Integrated network pharmacology and experimental analysis unveil multi-targeted effect of 18α- glycyrrhetinic acid against non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most malignant types of cancer with soaring incidence rates worldwide, attributed to its heterogeneity and complex etiology. Evidently, alternative anti-cancer therapies comprising traditional medicines and natural products have gained attention for their ability to act as chemopreventive agents with minimal toxicities, either alone or in combination. Accumulating studies have substantiated the inevitability of network pharmacology studies for effectively mapping molecular targets of natural products against multifaceted diseases, including cancer. The 18α-Glycyrrhetinic acid (18α-GA), a triterpenoid found in licorice plants, has shown promising medicinal properties, although, its mechanism of action against NSCLC yet remains elusive. The present study was conducted to explore the anti- NSCLC potential of 18α-GA, employing integrative network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental research. Initially, network analysis revealed 181 common targets of 18α-GA in NSCLC as shown in the “compound-target- disease” network employing Cytoscape 3.8.2. Further analyses identified EGFR, AKT1, PI3KR1, MAPK1, IGF1, and SRC as the most crucial hub targets of 18α-GA against NSCLC. Moreover, molecular docking simulations and functional enrichment analyses indicated the involvement of multiple signaling pathways in suppressing NSCLC. Subsequent in-vitro studies verified the antiproliferative effect of 18α-GA on two NSCLC cancer cell lines, H1299 and A549. Mechanistically, 18α-GA arrested cell cycle at the G1 phase, induced apoptosis, decreased migratory potential, and protein expression levels of EGFR-PI3K/AKT, as examined by flow cytometry, morphological assessment, RT-PCR, and western blot. In conclusion, this study delineates the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanism(s) of 18α-GA as a putative novel drug against NSCLC. However, further studies are warranted to elucidate the complete molecular mechanism(s) using animal models of NSCLC.

In-vitro biocompatibility evaluation of cast Ni–Ti alloy produced by vacuum arc melting technique for biomedical and dental applications

The investigated cast Ni50–Ti50 shape memory alloy was prepared using a vacuum arc furnace. The cast samples were subjected to in-vitro biocompatibility studies according to ISO 10993-12:2004, and compared to other samples Ni–Ti orthodontic wires commercially available at the dental market. The cast samples were hydroxyapatite-coated using the electrodeposition technique. The effect of surface treatment on the coating quality was addressed. The hydroxyapatite-coated samples were investigated using electrochemical impedance (EIS) and potentiodynamic techniques. Coated samples were also examined using a scanning electron microscope to inspect the coating morphology. Cytotoxicity tests on MG63 and H9C2 cell lines showed the safety and biocompatibility of the cast NiTi alloy, with a direct relationship between the incubation period of the tested samples and cell viability. Well-adhered hydroxyapatite coating was obtained on the surface-treated NiTi samples using the electrodeposition technique. EDS analysis showed a hydroxyapatite coating having a calcium to phosphorus ratio close to that of the natural bone. Electrochemical tests indicated that the highest corrosion resistance was obtained for the uncoated samples followed by the anodized sample and finally the hydroxyapatite-coated samples due to their high porosity.

Novel benzylidene benzofuranone analogues as potential anticancer agents: design, synthesis and in vitro evaluation based on CDK2 inhibition assays

The classical anticancer agents do not have their efficacy on inhibiting the G2 phase of the cell cycle. There are a very few reports available on drugs that work at G2 phase. Flavopiridol is one such drug candidate. In the current study, we sought to make analogues of flavopiridol. Still, the conditions used during their synthesis were unfavourable for the formation of flavopiridol and led to the generation of benzofuranones. In the present work, a new series of benzylidene benzofuranones were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their antioxidant, anti-colorectal cancer activity. Molecular docking, MMGBSA and molecular dynamics studies were conducted to assess their binding affinity at the active site of CDK2. Based on the cytotoxicity exhibited by test compounds, the compound NISOA4 (from isopropyl series) was further selected for mechanistic anticancer studies on HCT 116 cell lines. The compound selected was evaluated by comet assay, DNA fragmentation assay, cell cycle analysis, apoptosis detection by annexin FITC, semi-quantitative RTPCR based gene expression studies and FRET assay on the target CDK2/Cyclin A. Compound NISOA4 exhibited marked olive moments in comet assay studies. The apoptotic DNA fragmentation for compound NISOA4 demonstrated a marked change in the DNA fragmentation. The compound exhibited cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase at both the test concentrations. Apoptosis induction was observed at both the test concentrations and the compound was found to be a potent proapoptotic agent. It exhibited marked inhibition for the CDK2 gene expression and did not show any effect on CyclinA gene expression. However, the compound NISOA4 along with other analogues showed appreciable inhibition for the CDK2/Cyclin A target enzyme.

In Vitro Induction of Apoptosis in Isolated Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells: The Role of Anastatica hierochuntica Methanolic Extract

Anastatica hierochuntica L. (Cruciferae) has been known in Egyptian folk medicine as a remedy for gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes and heart diseases. Despite the wide usage, A. hierochuntica research provides insufficient data to support its traditional practice. The cytotoxicity of A. hierochuntica methanolic extract was investigated on acute myeloid leukemia blasts (AML) and normal human peripheral leucocytes (NHPL). The phytochemical identification of bioactive compounds using ¹H-NMR and LC-ESI-MS was also performed. A. hierochuntica extract caused non-significant cytotoxicity on NHPL, while the cytotoxicity on AML was significant (IC₅₀: 0.38 ± 0.02 μg/mL). The negative expression of p53, upregulation of Caspase-3 and increase in the BAX/BCL-2 ratio were reported at the protein and mRNA levels. The results suggest that A. hierochuntica extract induced AML cell death via the p53-independent mitochondrial intrinsic pathway and further attention should be paid to this plant as a promising natural anticancer agent.

Suppression of resistance to aminolevulinic acid-based photodynamic therapy in esophageal cell lines by administration of iron chelators in collagen type I matrices

PURPOSE

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilizes visible light to activate the cytotoxic effects of photosensitizing drugs. PDT protocols require optimization to overcome treatment resistance and induce a beneficial anti-tumor immune response. The aim of this study was to examine the possibility to suppress the resistance of esophageal cell lines to aminolevulinic acid (ALA)-PDT by administration of iron chelators to induce sufficient cell cytotoxicity under pathophysiologically relevant conditions, mimicking the advanced stages of cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Effects of ALA-PDT in combination with iron chelators were compared in three esophageal cell lines in conventional monolayers and in 3 D cultures based on collagen type I. Modified colony assay and fluorescence-based live cell imaging, respectively were applied. The latter was used also to test the capability of pre-polarized macrophages to interact with cancer cells subjected to ALA-PDT with or without iron chelators.

RESULTS

Iron chelators were effective in the enhancement of ALA-PDT in all cell lines under both culture conditions. Fluorescence evaluation of cell viability in 3 D cultures indicated the contribution of apoptotic cell death after ALA-PDT, both with and without iron chelators. Engulfment of remnants of dead cancer cells by macrophages in 2 D cultures was indicated, however, the interaction between macrophages and cancer cells in 3 D cultures subjected to ALA-PDT with or without iron chelators was not present.

CONCLUSIONS

The potential of iron chelators to enhance ALA-PDT was maintained in 3 D collagen matrices. Although PDT dose (ALA concentration, light exposure time) required modification in a cell line-dependent manner to achieve a comparable effect of PDT alone in conventional monolayers and in collagen matrices, the potential of iron chelators to suppress the resistance of esophageal cells to ALA-PDT was not influenced by a fibrillar collagen matrix.

Anticancer Effects of Carica papaya L. and Benzyl Isothiocyanate on an Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line: An In Vitro Study

AIM

The study aimed to assess the anticancer effects of leaves of the male and female plant and seeds Carica papaya L. extract and the active compound benzyl isothiocyanate on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Extracts of CO₂ strain C. papaya L. seeds were prepared using water, ethanol, and ethanol:water by maceration, and benzyl isothiocyanate was quantified. Alkaloid fractions of leaves of male and female plants of C. papaya L. were prepared and quantified. The anticancer effects of the test substances on the SCC-25 cell line were assessed by MTT, apoptosis assay, cell cycle analysis, and determination of mitochondrial membrane potential.

RESULTS

The ethanol:water extract of C. papaya L. (seeds) demonstrated the highest quantity of benzyl isothiocyanate. Male plant leaves demonstrated greater alkaloid content. The leaves of the male plant exhibited apoptosis induction and S-phase arrest, whereas the leaves of the female plant and seeds of C. papaya L. demonstrated G2M-phase arrest and apoptosis induction.

CONCLUSION

C. papaya L. and benzyl isothiocyanate demonstrated anticancer effects. There was a difference in the anticancer effects of leaves of male and female plants of C. papaya L.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The anticancer effects of papaya leaves and seeds could be further explored to develop an adjunct therapy for oral cancer to improve prognosis and reduce recurrence rates.

Involvement of the NF-κB and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways in cell death triggered by stypoldione, an o-quinone isolated from the brown algae Stypopodium zonale

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal plasma cell malignancy that remains incurable to date. Thus, the aims of this study were to evaluate the involvement of the NF-κB and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways in the cytotoxicity of stypoldione, an o-quinone isolated from the brown algae Stypopodium zonale, in MM cells (MM1.S). The cytotoxic effect was evaluated in MM1.S cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by MTT assay. The stypoldione reduced the cell viability of MM1.S cells in a concentration and time-dependent manner (IC50 in MM.1S from 2.55 to 5.38 μM). However, it was also cytotoxic to PBMCs, but at a lower range. Additionally, no significant hemolysis was observed even at concentration up to 10 times the IC50 . Apoptotic cell death was confirmed by cell morphology and Annexin V-FITC assay. Stypoldione induced intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis by increasing FasR expression and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, inverting the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and inducing ΔΨm loss, which resulted in AIF release and caspase-3 activation. It also increased Ki-67 and survivin expression and inhibited the NF-κB and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways. These results suggest that stypoldione is a good candidate for the development of new drugs for MM treatment.

Assessment of protein adhesion behaviour and biocompatibility of magnesium/Co-substituted HA-based composites for orthopaedic application

Protein adsorption has a great influence on Mg-based metallic implants, which affects cell attachment and cell growth. Adsorption of the proteins (via electrostatic interaction, hydrophobic/hydrophilic, and hydrogen-bonding) on the implant surface is greatly influenced by the surface chemistry of the implant. Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a class of CaP ceramic, beneficial for protein adsorption as it possesses Ca²⁺ and PO₄^3- in it, which are believed to be the protein binding sites on the HA surface. Moreover, HA is the popular choice for reinforcement in the magnesium matrix owing to its similarity with bone mineral composition. However, negligible interaction between HA and Mg particles during sintering is the major limitation for frequent usage of Mg-HA implants. Doping of HA with Mg²⁺ and Zn²⁺ (CoHA) ions leads to its chemistry similar to natural apatite in human bone and facilitates comparatively better bonding with the MgZn matrix. This study mainly aims to delve into the protein adsorption behaviour of Magnesium/Co-substituted HA-based Composites (M3Z-CoHA) along with their biocompatibility. Qualitative and quantitative protein adsorption analysis shows that the addition of 15 wt% CoHA to Mg matrix enhanced protein adsorption by ~60% and renders cell viability >90% after day 1, supporting cellular growth and proliferation. The implants also initiated osteogenic differentiation of the cells after day 7. The leached-out products from all the composites showed no toxicity. The morphology of the cells in all the composites was found as healthy as the control cells. Overall, the composite with 15 wt% HA reinforcement (M3Z-15CoHA) has shown favourable protein adsorption behaviour and cytocompatibility.

A Novel Bi-Functional Fibrinolytic Enzyme with Anticoagulant and Thrombolytic Activities from a Marine-Derived Fungus Aspergillus versicolor ZLH-1

Fibrinolytic enzymes are important components in the treatment of thrombosis-associated disorders. A new bi-functional fibrinolytic enzyme, versiase, was identified from a marine-derived fungus Aspergillus versicolor ZLH-1. The enzyme was isolated from the fungal culture through precipitation with ammonium sulfate at 90% saturation. Additionally, it was further purified by DEAE-based ion-exchange chromatography, with a recovery of 20.4%. The fibrinolytic enzyme presented as one band on both SDS-PAGE and fibrin-zymogram, with a molecular mass of 37.3 kDa. It was elucidated as a member of metalloprotease in M35 family by proteomic approaches. The homology-modeling analysis revealed that versiase shares significant structural homology wuth the zinc metalloendopeptidase. The enzyme displayed maximum activity at 40 °C and pH 5.0. The activity of versiase was strongly inhibited by the metalloprotease inhibitors EDTA and BGTA. Furthermore, versiase hydrolyzed fibrin directly and indirectly via the activation of plasminogen, and it was able to hydrolyze the three chains (α, β, γ) of fibrin(ogen). Additionally, versiase demonstrated promising thrombolytic and anticoagulant activities, without many side-effects noticed. In conclusion, versiase appears to be a potent fibrinolytic enzyme deserving further investigation.

Selective inhibition of carbonic anhydrase IX by sulphonylated 1,2,3-triazole incorporated benzenesulphonamides capable of inducing apoptosis

In search of selective carbonic anhydrase (CA) IX inhibitors endowed with apoptotic inducing properties, we designed and synthesised two subsets of 4- and 3-(5-aryl-(4-phenylsulphonyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)benzenesulphonamides. All compounds were assayed for human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) isoforms I, II, IV, and IX inhibition. Isoforms hCA I and hCA IV were weakly inhibited by most of the synthesised compounds. Many four-substituted benzenesulphonamides displayed low nanomolar inhibition against isoform hCA II, unlike the three-substituted analogues. All target compounds exhibited good inhibition profile with K_I values ranging from 16.4 to 66.0 nM against tumour-associated isoform hCA IX. Some selective and potent inhibitors of hCA IX were assayed for in vitro apoptotic induction in goat testicular cells. Compounds 10d and 10h showed interesting apoptotic induction potential. The present study may provide insights into a strategy for the design of novel anticancer agents based on hCA inhibitors endowed with apoptotic interference.

Preparation of Novel Pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine Sulfonamides and Their Experimental and Computational Biological Studies

Pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine sulfonamides constitute a novel class of heterocyclic compounds with broad biological activity, including anticancer properties. Investigated in this study, MM-compounds (MM134, MM136, MM137, and MM139) exhibited cytotoxic and proapoptotic activity against cancer cell lines (BxPC-3, PC-3, and HCT-116) in nanomolar concentrations without causing cytotoxicity in normal cells (L929 and WI38). In silico predictions indicate that tested compounds exhibit favorable pharmacokinetic profiles and may exert anticancer activity through the inhibition of BTK kinase, the AKT-mTOR pathway and PD1-PD-L1 interaction. Our findings point out that these sulfonamide derivatives may constitute a source of new anticancer drugs after optimization.

Appraisal of cytotoxicity and acrylamide mitigation potential of L-asparaginase SlpA from fish gut microbiome

L-asparaginase catalyzes the hydrolysis of L-asparagine to L-aspartic acid and ammonia. It has application in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children, as well as in other malignancies, in addition to its role as a food processing aid for the mitigation of acrylamide formation in the baking industry. Its use in cancer chemotherapy is limited due to problems such as its intrinsic glutaminase activity and associated side effects, leading to an increased interest in the search for novel L-asparaginases without L-glutaminase activity. This study reports the cloning and expression of an L-asparaginase contig obtained from whole metagenome shotgun sequencing of Sardinella longiceps gut microbiota. Purified recombinant glutaminase-free L-asparaginase SlpA was a 74 kDa homodimer, with maximal activity at pH 8 and 30 °C. K_m and V_max of SlpA were determined to be 3.008 mM and 0.014 mM/min, respectively. SlpA displayed cytotoxic activity against K-562 (chronic myeloid leukemia) and MCF-7 (breast cancer) cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 0.3443 and 2.692 U/mL, respectively. SlpA did not show any cytotoxic activity against normal lymphocytes and was proved to be hemocompatible. Pre-treatment of biscuit and bread dough with different concentrations of SlpA resulted in a clear, dose-dependent reduction of acrylamide formation during baking. KEY POINTS: • Cloned and expressed L-asparaginase (SlpA) from fish gut microbiota • Purified SlpA displayed good cytotoxicity against K-562 and MCF-7 cell lines • SlpA addition caused a significant reduction of acrylamide formation during baking.

Synergy between sublethal doses of shikonin and metformin fully inhibits breast cancer cell migration and reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition

BACKGROUND

Shikonin is a natural multipotent anti-tumorigenic compound. We investigated potential synergy between shikonin and anti-diabetic metformin against tumorigenic properties of breast cancer cell line MCF-7.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The IC₅₀ of shikonin and metformin was determined after a single treatment of two cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. We then measured optimal doses of each drug, used in combination, in MCF-7 cells. These sub-IC₅₀ doses were co-applied for all subsequent combined treatments to evaluate their synergistic effects on MCF-7 tumorigenic properties. Next, we examined expression levels of the genes crucial for apoptosis, cell growth, and EMT using RT-PCR or real-time PCR and monitored CD44/CD24 ratios using flow cytometry. Binding energies between shikonin and growth molecules were measured by in silico simulation. Shikonin caused significantly reduced cell survival that was accelerated by the synergizing presence of metformin. Drug combination induced apoptosis and ROS levels while fully blocking cell migration and reverting EMT. RT-PCR showed strong suppression of BCL-2 but induction of BAX and PTEN. Prolonged shikonin treatment caused a total loss of the nuclear membrane, whereas metformin prevented this damage while promoting apoptotic morphologies. Our real-time PCR detected reduced levels of EMT genes but increases in the anti-EMT gene CDH1. Combined treatment also reduced CD44/CD24 ratios in favor of chemosensitivity. Binding energies strongly favored shikonin interactions with growth-signaling molecules.

CONCLUSIONS

Shikonin and metformin synergize in inhibiting the tumorigenic activities of MCF-7 cells including their proliferation, invasiveness, and EMT with a potential to inhibit multidrug resistance.