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Choudhary S, Kesavan AK, Juneja V, Thakur S. Molecular modeling, simulation and docking of Rv1250 protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. FRONTIERS IN BIOINFORMATICS 2023; 3:1125479. [PMID: 37122997 PMCID: PMC10130521 DOI: 10.3389/fbinf.2023.1125479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Computational prediction and protein structure modeling have come to the aid of various biological problems in determining the structure of proteins. These technologies have revolutionized the biological world of research, allowing scientists and researchers to gain insights into their biological questions and design experimental research much more efficiently. Pathogenic Mycobacterium spp. is known to stay alive within the macrophages of its host. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is an acid-fast bacterium that is the most common cause of tuberculosis and is considered to be the main cause of resistance of tuberculosis as a leading health issue. The genome of Mycobacterium tuberculosis contains more than 4,000 genes, of which the majority are of unknown function. An attempt has been made to computationally model and dock one of its proteins, Rv1250 (MTV006.22), which is considered as an apparent drug-transporter, integral membrane protein, and member of major facilitator superfamily (MFS). The most widely used techniques, i.e., homology modeling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation in the field of structural bioinformatics, have been used in the present work to study the behavior of Rv1250 protein from M. tuberculosis. The structure of unknown TB protein, i.e., Rv1250 was retrived using homology modeling with the help of I-TASSER server. Further, one of the sites responsible for infection was identified and docking was done by using the specific Isoniazid ligand which is an inhibitor of this protein. Finally, the stability of protein model and analysis of stable and static interaction between protein and ligand molecular dynamic simulation was performed at 100 ns The designing of novel Rv1250 enzyme inhibitors is likely achievable with the use of proposed predicted model, which could be helpful in preventing the pathogenesis caused by M. tuberculosis. Finally, the MD simulation was done to evaluate the stability of the ligand for the specific protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumita Choudhary
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Anup Kumar Kesavan
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Kannur University, Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal Campus, PalayadKannur, Kerala, India
- *Correspondence: Anup Kumar Kesavan, ; Sheetal Thakur,
| | - Vijay Juneja
- Eastern Regional Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Wyndmoor, PA, United States
| | - Sheetal Thakur
- University Centre for Research & Development, Department of Biotechnology, Chandigarh University, Gharuan-Mohali, Punjab, India
- *Correspondence: Anup Kumar Kesavan, ; Sheetal Thakur,
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MUNNO PAULAM, BARROSO POLIANAR, VASCONCELOS BRUNAF, SILVA GEOVANNEBDA, SALGUEIRO THIAGOM, AGUIAR HELOISAH, VITORINO LETÍCIAM, OLIVEIRA MURILOX, MARTINS HELENR, GAIAD THAISP, MACHADO ALEXS. Acute toxicity and regenerative dose finding of an extract of Miconia ferruginata DC. in a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2022; 94:e20210190. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202220210190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- PAULA M. MUNNO
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - HELEN R. MARTINS
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Brazil
| | - THAIS P. GAIAD
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Brazil
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Bomba FDT, Nguelefack TB, Matharasala G, Mishra RK, Battu MB, Sriram D, Kamanyi A, Yogeeswari P. Antihypernociceptive effects of Petersianthus macrocarpus stem bark on neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury in rats. Inflammopharmacology 2021; 29:1241-1253. [PMID: 34081248 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-021-00821-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Petersianthus macrocarpus (Lecythidaceae) stem bark is traditionally used in West and Central Africa for the treatment of boils and pain. The present study examined the chemical composition of the aqueous and methanolic stem bark extracts of P. macrocarpus by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS) . Their antinociceptive effect was evaluated using chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain in a rat model. On the ninth day post-surgery, the pain perception (allodynia and hyperalgesia) of the animals was assessed after the administration of aqueous and methanolic extracts at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. In addition, the effect of the extracts was evaluated on nitric oxide activity and on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB). The LC-ESI-MS analysis revealed the presence of ellagic acid as the major constituent in the methanol extract. Both extracts at the employed doses (100 and 200 mg/kg), significantly (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) reduced the spontaneous pain, tactile and cold allodynia, and mechanical hyperalgesia. The methanolic extract used at the dose of 200 mg/kg significantly reduced the nitric oxide level (p < 0.001) and the gene expression levels of NF-κB (p < 0.05) and TNF-α (p < 0.01) in the brain. These data may indicate that stem bark extracts of P. macrocarpus possess a potent anti-hypernociceptive effect on CCI neuropathic pain. The inhibition of the nitric oxide pathway as well as the reduction in NF-κB and TNF-α gene expression in the brain may at least partially contribute to this effect. The results further support the use of this plant by traditional healers in pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Desire Tatsinkou Bomba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon.
- Neuropathic Pain Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet Mandal R.R. District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India.
| | - Telesphore Benoit Nguelefack
- Research Unit of Neuro-Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Gangadhar Matharasala
- Neuropathic Pain Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet Mandal R.R. District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
| | - Ram Kumar Mishra
- Neuropathic Pain Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet Mandal R.R. District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
| | - Madhu Babu Battu
- Neuropathic Pain Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet Mandal R.R. District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
| | - Dharmarajan Sriram
- Neuropathic Pain Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet Mandal R.R. District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
| | - Albert Kamanyi
- Research Unit of Neuro-Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Perumal Yogeeswari
- Neuropathic Pain Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus. Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet Mandal R.R. District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India.
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Alcazar W, Alakurtti S, Padrón-Nieves M, Tuononen ML, Rodríguez N, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Ponte-Sucre A. Leishmanicidal Activity of Betulin Derivatives in Leishmania amazonensis; Effect on Plasma and Mitochondrial Membrane Potential, and Macrophage Nitric Oxide and Superoxide Production. Microorganisms 2021; 9:320. [PMID: 33557150 PMCID: PMC7913927 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein, we evaluated in vitro the anti-leishmanial activity of betulin derivatives in Venezuelan isolates of Leishmania amazonensis, isolated from patients with therapeutic failure. METHODS We analyzed promastigote in vitro susceptibility as well as the cytotoxicity and selectivity of the evaluated compounds. Additionally, the activity of selected compounds was determined in intracellular amastigotes. Finally, to gain hints on their potential mechanism of action, the effect of the most promising compounds on plasma and mitochondrial membrane potential, and nitric oxide and superoxide production by infected macrophages was determined. RESULTS From the tested 28 compounds, those numbered 18 and 22 were chosen for additional studies. Both 18 and 22 were active (GI50 ≤ 2 µM, cytotoxic CC50 > 45 µM, SI > 20) for the reference strain LTB0016 and for patient isolates. The results suggest that 18 significantly depolarized the plasma membrane potential (p < 0.05) and the mitochondrial membrane potential (p < 0.05) when compared to untreated cells. Although neither 18 nor 22 induced nitric oxide production in infected macrophages, 18 induced superoxide production in infected macrophages. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that due to their efficacy and selectivity against intracellular parasites and the potential mechanisms underlying their leishmanicidal effect, the compounds 18 and 22 could be used as tools for designing new chemotherapies against leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmer Alcazar
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine Luis Razetti, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 50587, Caracas 1050, Venezuela; (W.A.); (M.P.-N.)
| | - Sami Alakurtti
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (M.L.T.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Maritza Padrón-Nieves
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine Luis Razetti, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 50587, Caracas 1050, Venezuela; (W.A.); (M.P.-N.)
| | - Maija Liisa Tuononen
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (M.L.T.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Biologinkuja 7, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 Espoo, Finland
| | - Noris Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Biomedicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 4043, Caracas 1010A, Venezuela;
| | - Jari Yli-Kauhaluoma
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (S.A.); (M.L.T.)
| | - Alicia Ponte-Sucre
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine Luis Razetti, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Central de Venezuela, P.O. Box 50587, Caracas 1050, Venezuela; (W.A.); (M.P.-N.)
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Holanda RJ, Deves C, Moreira-Dill LS, Guimarães CL, Marttinelli LKB, Fernandes CFC, Medeiros PSM, Pereira SS, Honda ER, Stábeli RG, Santos DS, Soares AM, Pereira da Silva LH. Plasmodium falciparum purine nucleoside phosphorylase as a model in the search for new inhibitors by high throughput screening. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 165:1832-1841. [PMID: 33075341 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.10.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown that inhibition of Plasmodium falciparum Purine Nucleoside Phosphorylase (PfPNP) blocks the purine salvage pathway in vitro and in vivo. In this study, PfPNP was evaluated as a model in the search for new inhibitors using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Its expression, purification, oligomeric state, kinetic constants, calorimetric parameters and kinetic mechanisms were obtained. PfPNP was immobilized on a CM5 sensor chip and sensorgrams were produced through binding the enzyme to the substrate MESG and interactions between molecules contained in 10 fractions of natural extracts. The oligomeric state showed that recombinant PfPNP is a hexamer. The true steady-state kinetic parameters for the substrate inosine were: KM 17 μM, kcat 1.2 s-1, VMax 2.2 U/mg and kcat/KM 7 × 10-4; for MESG they were: KM 131 μM, kcat 2.4 s-1, VMax 4.4 U/mg and kcat/KM 1.8 × 10-4. The thermodynamic parameters for the substrate Phosphate were: ΔG - 5.8 cal mol-1, ΔH - 6.5 cal mol-1 and ΔS - 2.25 cal mol-1/degree. The ITC results demonstrated that the binding of phosphate to free PfPNP led to a significant change in heat and association constants and thermodynamic parameters. A sequential ordered mechanism was proposed as the kinetic mechanism. Three plant extracts contained molecules capable of interacting with PfPNP, showing different levels of affinity. The identification of plant extract fractions containing molecules that interact with recombinant PfPNP using SRP validates this target as a model in the search for new inhibitors. In this study, we showed for the first time the true steady-state kinetic parameters for reactions catalyzed by PfPNP and a model using PfPNP as a target for High-throughput Screening for new inhibitors through SPR. This knowledge will allow for the development of more efficient research methods in the search for new drugs against malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudson J Holanda
- Universidade Federal do Amazonas, UFAM, campus Humaitá, Amazonas, Brazil; Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil.
| | - Candida Deves
- Centro de Pesquisa em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Leandro S Moreira-Dill
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
| | - Cesar L Guimarães
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
| | - Leonardo K B Marttinelli
- Centro de Pesquisa em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Carla F C Fernandes
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil; Laboratório de Engenharia de Anticorpos, Fiocruz Rondônia, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil; Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Patrícia S M Medeiros
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
| | - Soraya S Pereira
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil; Laboratório de Engenharia de Anticorpos, Fiocruz Rondônia, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
| | - Eduardo R Honda
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Patologias Tropicais de Rondônia, IPEPATRO e Laboratório Central, LACEN, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo G Stábeli
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil; Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Plataforma Bi-institucional de Medicina Translacional, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diógenes S Santos
- Centro de Pesquisa em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Andreimar M Soares
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil; Centro Universitário São Lucas, UniSL, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Epidemiologia da Amazônia Ocidental, INCT-EpiAmO, Brazil.
| | - Luiz H Pereira da Silva
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Proteínas e Compostos Bioativos da Amazônia Ocidental, LABIOPROT, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Fiocruz Rondônia e Universidade Federal de Rondônia, UNIR, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
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Kumar R. Nanotechnology based approaches to enhance aqueous solubility and bioavailability of griseofulvin: A literature survey. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2019.101221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Oliveira-Macêdo LAR, Pacheco AGM, Lima-Saraiva SRG, Silva JC, Oliveira-Júnior RG, Souza GR, Lavor EM, Silva MG, Ferro JNS, Barreto E, Oliveira VR, Almeida JRGS. Fractions of Selaginella convoluta (Arn.) Spring (Selaginellaceae) attenuate the nociceptive behavior events in mice. BRAZ J BIOL 2019; 80:57-65. [PMID: 31017233 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.189761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Selaginella convoluta (Arn.) Spring is a species popularly known as "jericó", and used in folk medicine as analgesic and anti-inflammatory. This study aimed to investigate in mice the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the hexane (Sc-Hex) and chloroform (Sc-CHCl3) fractions (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) obtained by partition of crude ethanol extract from S. convoluta. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the fractions was performed. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated by writhing, formalin and hot-plate tests. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan-induced pleurisy. The rota-rod test was used to evaluate motor coordination. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed that the Sc-Hex and the Sc-CHCl3 were positive for the presence of flavonoids, anthracene derivatives, quinones, triterpenes and steroids. Inhibition of writhing was observed for fractions tested. The Sc-Hex at all doses tested was effective in reducing the nociceptive behavior produced by formalin only in the second phase. However, the Sc-CHCl3 decreased the paw licking time in the first and second phases. In the hot plate no significant effect was observed for any fraction. In the rota-rod test, treated mice did not demonstrate any significant motor performance changes. In the carrageenan-induced pleurisy, Sc-CHCl3 (200 mg/kg) reduced cell migration to the pleural cavity. These results reveal the antinociceptive properties of S. convoluta , which support, in part, its traditional use, since the fractions did not presented significant activity in the inflammatory response profile. We further verify that this antinociceptive effect could be by activation of nociceptive peripheral pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A R Oliveira-Macêdo
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - A G M Pacheco
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - S R G Lima-Saraiva
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - J C Silva
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - R G Oliveira-Júnior
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - G R Souza
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - E M Lavor
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - M G Silva
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - J N S Ferro
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, CEP 57072-970, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - E Barreto
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, CEP 57072-970, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - V R Oliveira
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - EMBRAPA, CEP 56302-970, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
| | - J R G S Almeida
- Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas de Plantas Medicinais - NEPLAME, Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco - UNIVASF, CEP 56304-205, Petrolina, PE, Brasil
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parasitic diseases that pose a threat to human life include leishmaniasis - caused by protozoan parasite Leishmania species. Existing drugs have limitations due to deleterious side effects like teratogenicity, high cost and drug resistance. This calls for the need to have an insight into therapeutic aspects of disease. Areas covered: We have identified different drug targets via. molecular, imuunological, metabolic as well as by system biology approaches. We bring these promising drug targets into light so that they can be explored to their maximum. In an effort to bridge the gaps between existing knowledge and prospects of drug discovery, we have compiled interesting studies on drug targets, thereby paving the way for establishment of better therapeutic aspects. Expert opinion: Advancements in technology shed light on many unexplored pathways. Further probing of well established pathways led to the discovery of new drug targets. This review is a comprehensive report on current and emerging drug targets, with emphasis on several metabolic targets, organellar biochemistry, salvage pathways, epigenetics, kinome and more. Identification of new targets can contribute significantly towards strengthening the pipeline for disease elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Sundar
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, UP, India
| | - Bhawana Singh
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, UP, India
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Malafaia CB, Jardelino ACS, Silva AG, de Souza EB, Macedo AJ, Correia MTDS, Silva MV. Effects of Caatinga Plant Extracts in Planktonic Growth and Biofilm Formation in Ralstonia solanacearum. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2018; 75:555-561. [PMID: 28920144 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-017-1073-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the first antibiofilm and antibacterial screening for plants from Caatinga against Ralstonia solanacearum, a causal agent of bacterial wilt that presents serious difficulties in control. There were prepared 22 aqueous extracts of plants collected in the Vale do Catimbau-PE, Brazil. The potential antibacterial activity was evaluated by absorbance in OD600 and the antibiofilm activity through the crystal violet method, both of them performed in microplate against isolates of R. solanacearum biofilm formers. The results of the screening showed that Jacaranda rugosa presented antimicrobial activity higher than 90%, while Harpochilus neesianus and Myroxylon peruiferum presented antibiofilm activity higher than 50% for all tested isolates. However, Croton heliotropiifolius showed both the activities, being thus very promising for application in the control of this phytopathogen. The search for viable alternatives to the development of new bioactive compounds safe for the environment, humans, and animals from an adverse and scarce environment such as the Caatinga and encouraged us to find plants that produce effective metabolites against phytopathogenic microorganisms. This in vitro screening is important to guide the development of new products in addition to guide research studies of bioactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Barbosa Malafaia
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
- Centro de Tecnologias Estratégicas do Nordeste (CETENE), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| | | | - Alexandre Gomes Silva
- Instituto Nacional do Semiárido, Av. Francisco Lopes de Almeida, Campina Grande, Paraíba, 58434-700, Brazil
| | - Elineide Barbosa de Souza
- Departamento de Biologia/Área de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Alexandre José Macedo
- Faculdade de Farmácia e Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Márcia Vanusa Silva
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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Gbekley HE, Katawa G, Karou SD, Anani SK, Tchadjobo T, Ameyapoh Y, Batawila K, Simpore J. ETHNOBOTANICAL STUDY OF PLANTS USED TO TREAT ASTHMA IN THE MARITIME REGION IN TOGO. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES : AJTCAM 2016; 14:196-212. [PMID: 28480398 PMCID: PMC5411872 DOI: 10.21010/ajtcam.v14i1.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in modern society and it is evident that its incidence and severity are increasing, however very little is known about the plants used in the management of the disease. This study therefore aimed to document the plants usage in the Togolese traditional medicine to treat asthma. METHODOLOGY From January to June 2015, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire with traditional healers (THs) in the southern region of Togo. The importance of the plants species was assessed by the calculated use values. RESULTS In Total, 121 THs (92 males and 29 females) were interviewed and 98 plants species belonging to 54 families were identified as curing asthma. The most represented families were: Leguminosae with 7 species followed by Euphorbiaceae and Rutaceae contributing with 6 and 5 species respectively. Based on the calculated use values the most important species were Carcica papaya L., Cataranthus roseus L., Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh., Piper guineense Thonn., Eucalyptus citriodora Hook., Eucalyptus globules Labill. and Euphorbia hirta L. The leaves and the root were the parts predominantly used to prepare the formulations, mainly decoctions, administrated by oral route. Clinical manifestations such as wheezing (91.74%), difficulty as speaking or coughing (73.55%), dyspnea (66.94%), dry cough (52.89%), sweating and increased heart rate (52.07%) were used by TH to diagnose the disease. CONCLUSION This study showed initial evidence of the use of plant materials by Togolese TH to heal asthma. These results could be a starting point for laboratory screenings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holaly E. Gbekley
- Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA-UL), Université de Lomé, Togo
| | - Gnatoulma Katawa
- Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA-UL), Université de Lomé, Togo
| | - Simplice D. Karou
- Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA-UL), Université de Lomé, Togo
- Centre dee cherche Biomoléculaire Pietro Annigoni (CERBA/LABIOGENE), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - SKokou Anani
- Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA-UL), Université de Lomé, Togo
| | - Tchacondo Tchadjobo
- Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA-UL), Université de Lomé, Togo
| | - Yaovi Ameyapoh
- Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA-UL), Université de Lomé, Togo
| | - Komlan Batawila
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Ecologie Végétales, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Lomé
| | - Jacques Simpore
- Centre dee cherche Biomoléculaire Pietro Annigoni (CERBA/LABIOGENE), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
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Pasetto S, Pardi V, Murata RM. Anti-HIV-1 activity of flavonoid myricetin on HIV-1 infection in a dual-chamber in vitro model. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115323. [PMID: 25546350 PMCID: PMC4278898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV infection by sexual transmission remains an enormous global health concern. More than 1 million new infections among women occur annually. Microbicides represent a promising prevention strategy that women can easily control. Among emerging therapies, natural small molecules such as flavonoids are an important source of new active substances. In this study we report the in vitro cytotoxicity and anti-HIV-1 and microbicide activity of the following flavonoids: Myricetin, Quercetin and Pinocembrin. Cytotoxicity tests were conducted on TZM-bl, HeLa, PBMC, and H9 cell cultures using 0.01-100 µM concentrations. Myricetin presented the lowest toxic effect, with Quercetin and Pinocembrin relatively more toxic. The anti-HIV-1 activity was tested with TZM-bl cell plus HIV-1 BaL (R5 tropic), H9 and PBMC cells plus HIV-1 MN (X4 tropic), and the dual tropic (X4R5) HIV-1 89.6. All flavonoids showed anti-HIV activity, although Myricetin was more effective than Quercetin or Pinocembrin. In TZM-bl cells, Myricetin inhibited ≥90% of HIV-1 BaL infection. The results were confirmed by quantification of HIV-1 p24 antigen in supernatant from H9 and PBMC cells following flavonoid treatment. In H9 and PBMC cells infected by HIV-1 MN and HIV-1 89.6, Myricetin showed more than 80% anti-HIV activity. Quercetin and Pinocembrin presented modest anti-HIV activity in all experiments. Myricetin activity was tested against HIV-RT and inhibited the enzyme by 49%. Microbicide activities were evaluated using a dual-chamber female genital tract model. In the in vitro microbicide activity model, Myricetin showed promising results against different strains of HIV-1 while also showing insignificant cytotoxic effects. Further studies of Myricetin should be performed to identify its molecular targets in order to provide a solid biological foundation for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Pasetto
- University of Southern California, Ostrow School of Dentistry, Division of Periodontology Diagnostic Sciences, Dental Hygiene & Biomedical Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Vanessa Pardi
- University of Southern California, Ostrow School of Dentistry, Division of Periodontology Diagnostic Sciences, Dental Hygiene & Biomedical Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Ramiro Mendonça Murata
- University of Southern California, Ostrow School of Dentistry, Division of Periodontology Diagnostic Sciences, Dental Hygiene & Biomedical Science, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Alfano ACC, Paiva CE, Rugno FC, da Silva RH, Paiva BSR. Biologically based therapies are commonly self-prescribed by Brazilian women for the treatment of advanced breast cancer or its symptoms. Support Care Cancer 2013; 22:1303-11. [PMID: 24337764 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-013-2087-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer (BC) might be associated with loss of function in affected patients, with a direct impact on their quality of life (QOL). Many women with metastatic BC seek relief of symptoms, including the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to cure cancer. The present study aimed to identify the pattern of CAM used by patients with metastatic BC and to assess the correlation between CAM use and scores on anxiety, depression, and QOL scales. METHODS A total of 126 women with metastatic BC were interviewed using four instruments: (1) a questionnaire containing socioeconomic, clinical, and demographic data and CAM use; (2) European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ)-C30; (3) EORTC QLQ-BR23; and (4) the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. RESULTS Fifty percent of the participants reported the use of at least one CAM modality. Biologically based practices were the most frequently used to treat BC and/or its symptoms, the most commonly discussed with the oncologists, and one of the CAM categories in which more patients reported a desire to learn more about. The overall use of CAM was not correlated with the scores on the anxiety, depression, and QOL scales. However, analysis of the association of the QOL scores with specific CAM modalities revealed some potential associations (especially for food supplements, art therapy, psychotherapy, and prayer). CONCLUSIONS Women with metastatic BC frequently make use of CAM to treat the cancer and/or its symptoms. Biologically based practices seem to be particularly important in Brazil. An association between specific CAM modalities and some QOL domains was suggested, but it needs further confirmation.
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Oliveira AA, Segovia JF, Sousa VY, Mata EC, Gonçalves MC, Bezerra RM, Junior PO, Kanzaki LI. Antimicrobial activity of amazonian medicinal plants. SPRINGERPLUS 2013; 2:371. [PMID: 23961431 PMCID: PMC3738913 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-2-371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The aqueous extracts of currently utilized Amazonian medicinal plants were assayed in vitro searching for antimicrobial activity against human and animal pathogenic microorganisms. Methods Medium resuspended lyophilized aqueous extracts of different organs of Amazonian medicinal plants were assayed by in vitro screening for antimicrobial activity. ATCC and standardized microorganisms obtained from Oswaldo Cruz Foundation/Brazil were individually and homogeneously grown in agar plate, and holes previously perforated in the gel were filled with diluted plant aqueous extracts. Inhibition halos were evaluated and controlled by the use of the fluoroquinolone ciprofloxacin. Results The Amazonian medicinal plants, Hymenelobium petraeum showed inhibitory activity over Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Acinetobacter baumannii and Candida albicans, while Vatairea guianensis and Symphonia globulifera presented inhibitory activity exclusively for Staphylococcus aureus. Also, Ptychopetalum olacoides and Pentaclethra macroloba inhibited the growth of Klebsiella ozaenae and Acinetobacter baumannii. Conclusion The aqueous botanic extracts that showed activity against microroganisms of ATTC and Osvaldo Cruz strains had at least 40% of antimicrobial activity when compared to halo inhibition produced by the commercial antibiotic ciprofloxacin utilized as a control. Of all plants extracts assayed, the Hymenelobium petraeum had the best performance, sometimes exhibiting higher activity than ciprofloxacin. It is not well-defined by the physicians the exact indication of the majority of medicinal plants in the Amazon area in Brazil. Natives utilize the plants according to their symptoms, based on the traditional knowledge transmitted orally from generation to generation, among Amerindians, Afrodescendents and ethnic mixed populations. A significant number of Amazonian medicinal plants are totally unknown related to their medicinal properties including mechanism of action and therapeutic effects, as very few information is reported in the scientific literature. A tiny amount of data is presented, as the preliminary antimicrobial properties of the medicinal plants here accessed, under the urgent necessity of new antibiotics in the market and in face of the increased resistance of infectious microorganisms to antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda A Oliveira
- Amapa State University, Presidente Vargas Avenue, number 650, Center, Macapá, AP Brazil
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Uc-Cachón AH, Borges-Argáez R, Said-Fernández S, Vargas-Villarreal J, González-Salazar F, Méndez-González M, Cáceres-Farfán M, Molina-Salinas GM. Naphthoquinones isolated from Diospyros anisandra exhibit potent activity against pan-resistant first-line drugs Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2013; 27:114-20. [PMID: 23968826 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 08/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The recent emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and totally drug-resistant (TDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) strains have further complicated the control of tuberculosis (TB). There is an urgent need of new molecules candidates to be developed as novel, active, and less toxic anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) drugs. Medicinal plants have been an excellent source of leads for the development of drugs, particularly as anti-infective agents. In previous studies, the non-polar extract of Diospyros anisandra showed potent anti-TB activity, and three monomeric and five dimeric naphthoquinones have been obtained. In this study, we performed bioguided chemical fractionation and the isolation of eight naphthoquinones from D. anisandra and their evaluation of anti-TB and cytotoxic activities against mammalian cells. METHODS The n-hexane crude extract from the stem bark of the plant was obtained by maceration and liquid-liquid fractionation. The isolation of naphthoquinones was carried out by chromatographic methods and identified by gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy data analysis. Anti-TB activity was evaluated against two strains of MTB (H37Rv) susceptible to all five first-line anti-TB drugs and a clinical isolate that is resistant to these medications (pan-resistant, CIBIN 99) by measuring the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). Cytotoxicity of naphthoquinones was estimated against two mammalian cells, Vero line and primary cultures of human peripheral blood mononuclear (PBMC) cells, and their selectivity index (SI) was determined. RESULTS Plumbagin and its dimers maritinone and 3,3'-biplumbagin showed the strongest activity against both MTB strains (MIC = 1.56-3.33 μg/mL). The bioactivity of maritinone and 3,3'-biplumbagin were 32 times more potent than rifampicin against the pan-resistant strain, and both dimers showed to be non-toxic against PBMC and Vero cells. The SI of maritinone and 3,3'-biplumbagin on Vero cells was 74.34 and 194.11 against sensitive and pan-resistant MTB strains, respectively. CONCLUSION Maritinone and 3,3'-biplumbagin possess a very interesting potential for development as new drugs against M. tuberculosis, mainly resistant profile strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Humberto Uc-Cachón
- Unidad de Biotecnología del Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán A.C., Calle 43, No. 130, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, CP 97200 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
| | - Rocío Borges-Argáez
- Unidad de Biotecnología del Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán A.C., Calle 43, No. 130, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, CP 97200 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
| | - Salvador Said-Fernández
- División de Biología Celular y Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, IMSS, San Luis Potosí y 2 de Abril, Col. Independencia, CP 65720 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| | - Javier Vargas-Villarreal
- División de Biología Celular y Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, IMSS, San Luis Potosí y 2 de Abril, Col. Independencia, CP 65720 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| | - Francisco González-Salazar
- División de Biología Celular y Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, IMSS, San Luis Potosí y 2 de Abril, Col. Independencia, CP 65720 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico; Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, División de Ciencia de la Salud, Universidad de Monterrey, Ave. Ignacio Morones Prieto 4500 Pte., CP 66238 San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| | - Martha Méndez-González
- Unidad de Recursos Naturales del Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán A.C., Calle 43, No. 130, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, CP 97200 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
| | - Mirbella Cáceres-Farfán
- Unidad de Biotecnología del Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán A.C., Calle 43, No. 130, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, CP 97200 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
| | - Gloria María Molina-Salinas
- División de Biología Celular y Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, IMSS, San Luis Potosí y 2 de Abril, Col. Independencia, CP 65720 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
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Brito AMG, Dos Santos D, Rodrigues SA, Brito RG, Xavier-Filho L. Plants with anti-Leishmania activity: Integrative review from 2000 to 2011. Pharmacogn Rev 2013; 7:34-41. [PMID: 23922454 PMCID: PMC3731877 DOI: 10.4103/0973-7847.112840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Revised: 12/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for more effective new drugs to treat Leishmaniasis is undoubtedly relevant. Our objective in this study was to investigate research publications addressing plants with anti-Leishmaniasis activity. An integrative review of the literature from 2000 to 2011 was carried out in the databases such as Latin-American and Caribbean Health Sciences (LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE). In the initial search, 150 articles were found, with 25 based in LILACS, 68 in SciELO, and 46 in MEDLINE. From these data, after reading the abstracts that were available online, we excluded 12 from LILACS, 39 from SciELO, and 28 from MEDLINE for presenting article duplications. This left 61 articles to be read; however, only 18 of them answered the research questions and determined the final sample of this review. The results showed that research involving the search for new drugs against Leishmaniasis should be intensified, especially for the amastigote form, and studies with in vivo tests could become a great strategy for successfully finding new treatments for Leishmaniasis. It is believed that it is extremely important and urgent to conduct more trials in search of new effective drugs against Leishmaniasis that possess minimal adverse effects and that are easily accessible to the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maria G Brito
- Institute of Technology and Research, Department of Biomedicine, Tiradentes University, Aracaju-SE, Brazil
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Gullo FP, Rossi SA, Sardi JDCO, Teodoro VLI, Mendes-Giannini MJS, Fusco-Almeida AM. Cryptococcosis: epidemiology, fungal resistance, and new alternatives for treatment. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2013; 32:1377-91. [PMID: 24141976 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-013-1915-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is an important systemic mycosis and the third most prevalent disease in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals. The incidence of cryptococcosis is high among the 25 million people with HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), with recent estimates indicating that there are one million cases of cryptococcal meningitis globally per year in AIDS patients. In Cryptococcus neoformans, resistance to azoles may be associated with alterations in the target enzyme encoded by the gene ERG11, lanosterol 14α-demethylase. These alterations are obtained through mutations, or by overexpressing the gene encoding. In addition, C. gattii and C. neoformans present a heteroresistance phenotype, which may be related to increased virulence. Other species beyond C. neoformans and C. gattii, such as C. laurentii, have been diagnosed mainly in patients with immunosuppression. Infections of C. albidus have been isolated in cats and marine mammals. Recent evidence suggests that the majority of infections produced by this pathogen are associated with biofilm growth, which is also related with increased resistance to antifungal agents. Therefore, there is a great need to search for alternative antifungal agents for these fungi. The search for new molecules is currently occurring from nanoparticle drugs of plant peptide origin. This article presents a brief review of the literature regarding the epidemiology of cryptococcosis, as well as fungal resistance and new alternatives for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- F P Gullo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Araraquara, Department of Clinical Analysis, Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), R. Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, 14801-902, Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
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Gu J, Gui Y, Chen L, Yuan G, Lu HZ, Xu X. Use of natural products as chemical library for drug discovery and network pharmacology. PLoS One 2013; 8:e62839. [PMID: 23638153 PMCID: PMC3636197 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0062839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural products have been an important source of lead compounds for drug discovery. How to find and evaluate bioactive natural products is critical to the achievement of drug/lead discovery from natural products. METHODOLOGY We collected 19,7201 natural products structures, reported biological activities and virtual screening results. Principal component analysis was employed to explore the chemical space, and we found that there was a large portion of overlap between natural products and FDA-approved drugs in the chemical space, which indicated that natural products had large quantity of potential lead compounds. We also explored the network properties of natural product-target networks and found that polypharmacology was greatly enriched to those compounds with large degree and high betweenness centrality. In order to make up for a lack of experimental data, high throughput virtual screening was employed. All natural products were docked to 332 target proteins of FDA-approved drugs. The most potential natural products for drug discovery and their indications were predicted based on a docking score-weighted prediction model. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of molecular descriptors, distribution in chemical space and biological activities of natural products was conducted in this article. Natural products have vast chemical diversity, good drug-like properties and can interact with multiple cellular target proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangyong Gu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Lab of Rare Earth Material Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yuanshen Gui
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Lab of Rare Earth Material Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Institute of Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Lirong Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Lab of Rare Earth Material Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Gu Yuan
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Lab of Rare Earth Material Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Hui-Zhe Lu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Lab of Rare Earth Material Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Institute of Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojie Xu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Lab of Rare Earth Material Chemistry and Applications, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, P. R. China
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In vitro schistosomicidal activity of some brazilian cerrado species and their isolated compounds. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 2012:173614. [PMID: 22924053 PMCID: PMC3424599 DOI: 10.1155/2012/173614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Miconia langsdorffii Cogn. (Melastomataceae), Roupala montana Aubl. (Proteaceae), Struthanthus syringifolius (Mart.) (Loranthaceae), and Schefflera vinosa (Cham. & Schltdl.) Frodin (Araliaceae) are plant species from the Brazilian Cerrado whose schistosomicidal potential has not yet been described. The crude extracts, fractions, the triterpenes betulin, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid and the flavonoids quercetin 3-O-β-D-rhamnoside, quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucoside, quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside and isorhamnetin 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside were evaluated in vitro against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms and the bioactive n-hexane fractions of the mentioned species were also analyzed by GC-MS. Betulin was able to cause worm death percentage values of 25% after 120 h (at 100 μM), and 25% and 50% after 24 and 120 h (at 200 μM), respectively; besides the flavonoid quercetin 3-O-β-D-rhamnoside promoted 25% of death of the parasites at 100 μM. Farther the flavonoids quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucoside and quercetin 3-O-β-D-rhamnoside at 100 μM exhibited significantly reduction in motor activity, 75% and 87.5%, respectively. Biological results indicated that crude extracts of R. montana, S. vinosa, and M. langsdorffii and some n-hexane and EtOAc fractions of this species were able to induce worm death to some extent. The results suggest that lupane-type triterpenes and flavonoid monoglycosides should be considered for further antiparasites studies.
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Gontijo VS, de Souza TC, Rosa IA, Soares MG, da Silva MA, Vilegas W, Viegas C, dos Santos MH. Isolation and evaluation of the antioxidant activity of phenolic constituents of the Garcinia brasiliensis epicarp. Food Chem 2012; 132:1230-1235. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2011.10.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Revised: 10/15/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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First report of anti-Trichomonas vaginalis activity of the medicinal plant Polygala decumbens from the Brazilian semi-arid region, Caatinga. Parasitol Res 2011; 110:2581-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2787-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Setzer WN. Drugs from the Cloudforest: The Search for New Medicines from Monteverde, Costa Rica. Nat Prod Commun 2011. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1100601035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The University of Alabama in Huntsville Natural Products Research Group has been investigating the phytopharmaceutical potential of tropical rainforest higher plants from the Monteverde region of northwestern Costa Rica for the past twenty years. The group has focused primarily on anticancer agents, antimicrobial agents, and antiparasitic agents. This review presents an overview of some of our efforts in natural products drug discovery from Monteverde, Costa Rica.
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Affiliation(s)
- William N. Setzer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, USA
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Trentin DDS, Giordani RB, Zimmer KR, da Silva AG, da Silva MV, Correia MTDS, Baumvol IJR, Macedo AJ. Potential of medicinal plants from the Brazilian semi-arid region (Caatinga) against Staphylococcus epidermidis planktonic and biofilm lifestyles. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2011; 137:327-35. [PMID: 21651970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Revised: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 05/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Medicinal plants from the Caatinga, a Brazilian xeric shrubland, are used in folk medicine to treat infections. These ethnopharmacological data can contribute to obtaining new antimicrobial/antibiofilm extracts and natural product prototypes for the development of new drugs. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibiofilm and antibacterial activities of 45 aqueous extracts from 24 Caatinga plant species. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of aqueous extracts on planktonic cells and on biofilm formation by Staphylococcus epidermidis was studied by the OD(600) absorbance and by the crystal violet assay, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to generate comparative images of extract-treated and untreated biofilms. Chromatographic analyses were performed to characterize the active extracts. RESULTS The in vitro screening, at 0.4 mg/mL and 4.0mg/mL, showed 20 plants effective in preventing biofilm formation and 13 plants able to inhibit planktonic bacterial growth. SEM images demonstrated distinct profiles of bacterial adhesion, matrix production and cell morphology according to different treatments and surfaces. The phytochemical analysis of the selected active extracts indicates the polyphenols, coumarins, steroids and terpenes as possible active compounds. CONCLUSION This study describes the first antibiofilm and antibacterial screening of Caatinga plants against S. epidermidis. The evaluation presented in this study confirms several ethnopharmacological reports and can be utilized to identify new antibiofilm and antibacterial products against S. epidermidis from traditional Brazilian medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle da Silva Trentin
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Tapas S, Kumar A, Dhindwal S, Preeti, Kumar P. Structural analysis of chorismate synthase from Plasmodium falciparum: a novel target for antimalaria drug discovery. Int J Biol Macromol 2011; 49:767-77. [PMID: 21801743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2011.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Revised: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The shikimate pathway in Plasmodium falciparum provides several targets for designing novel antiparasitic agents for the treatment of malaria. Chorismate synthase (CS) is a key enzyme in the shikimate pathway which catalyzes the seventh and final step of the pathway. P. falciparum chorismate synthase (PfCS) is unique in terms of enzymatic behavior, cellular localization and in having two additional amino acid inserts compared to any other CS. The structure of PfCS along with cofactor FMN was predicted by homology modeling using crystal structure of Helicobacter pylori chorismate synthase (HpCS). The quality of the model was validated using structure analysis servers and molecular dynamics. Dimeric form of PfCS was generated and the FMN binding mechanism involving movement of loop near active site has been proposed. Active site pocket has been identified and substrate 5-enolpyruvylshikimate 3-phosphate (EPSP) along with screened potent inhibitors has been docked. The study resulted in identification of putative inhibitors of PfCS with binding efficiency in nanomolar range. The selected putative inhibitors could lead to the development of anti-malarial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satya Tapas
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India.
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Abstract
In recent years the interest for natural substances in dermatotherapy and cosmetics has increased. Peat is a complex natural source of humic substances that are of potential interest in both dermatology and cosmetology. Humic substances in peat have been partially characterized and pharmacologic and biologic activities have been documented. Possible clinical applications are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Wollina
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Hospital Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Academic Teaching Hospital of the Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Vianna CP, de Azevedo WF. Identification of new potential Mycobacterium tuberculosis shikimate kinase inhibitors through molecular docking simulations. J Mol Model 2011; 18:755-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s00894-011-1113-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2011] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Otuki MF, Bernardi CA, Prudente AS, Laskoski K, Gomig F, Horinouchi CDS, Guimarães CL, Ferreira J, Delle-Monache F, Cechinel-Filho V, Cabrini DA. Garcinia gardneriana (Planchon & Triana) Zappi. (Clusiaceae) as a Topical Anti-inflammatory Alternative for Cutaneous Inflammation. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2011; 109:56-62. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2011.00689.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Polyethylene-glycolylated isoniazid conjugate for reduced toxicity and sustained release. Ther Deliv 2011; 2:205-12. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.10.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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Abstract
The plant of the genus Pterodon (Fabaceae, Leguminosae), commonly known as 'sucupira' or 'faveira', are disseminated throughout the central region of Brazil and has frequently been used in popular medicine for its anti-rheumatic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In recent years, interest in these plants has increased considerably. The biological effects of different phytoextracts and pure metabolites have been investigated in several experimental models in vivo and in vitro. The literature describes flavonoids, triterpene and steroids, while one paper presented studies with proteins isolated from the genus. This review provides an overview of phytochemical and pharmacological research in Pterodon, showing the main chemical compounds studied to date, and focusing on the relationship between these molecules and their biological activity. Furthermore, this study paves the way for more in-depth investigation, isolation and characterization of the molecules of this plant genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiane Hansen
- University Federal of Goiás; Biological Institute of São Paulo
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30
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Brustolim D, Vasconcelos JF, Freitas LAR, Teixeira MM, Farias MT, Ribeiro YM, Tomassini TCB, Oliveira GGS, Pontes-de-Carvalho LC, Ribeiro-dos-Santos R, Soares MBP. Activity of physalin F in a collagen-induced arthritis model. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2010; 73:1323-1326. [PMID: 20681573 DOI: 10.1021/np900691w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The effects of physalin F (1), a steroid derivative purified from Physalis angulata, were investigated in models of collagen-induced arthritis in DBA/1 mice and allergic airway inflammation in BALB/c mice. Oral treatment with 1 or dexamethasone caused a marked decrease in paw edema and joint inflammation when compared to vehicle-treated arthritic mice. In contrast, treatment with 1 had no effect in mice with allergic airway inflammation caused by ovalbumin immunization, whereas dexamethasone significantly reduced the number of inflammatory cells and eosinophils in the broncoalveolar lavage fluid and in lung sections of challenged mice. To further demonstrate that 1 acts through a mechanism different from that of glucocorticoids, a nuclear translocation assay was performed of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) using COS-7 cells transfected with a plasmid encoding for a yellow fluorescent protein (YFP)-GR fusion protein. Untreated or treated cells with 1 had YFP staining mainly in the cytoplasm, whereas in dexamethasone-treated cells the YFP staining was concentrated in the nuclei. It is concluded that the mechanism of the immunosuppressive activity of physalin F is distinct from that of the glucocorticoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Brustolim
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, BA, Brazil
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Rogerio AP, Sá-Nunes A, Faccioli LH. The activity of medicinal plants and secondary metabolites on eosinophilic inflammation. Pharmacol Res 2010; 62:298-307. [PMID: 20450976 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2010.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2009] [Revised: 04/16/2010] [Accepted: 04/27/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Eosinophils are leukocytes that are present in several body compartments and in the blood at relatively low numbers under normal conditions. However, an increase in the number of eosinophils, in the blood or in the tissues, is observed in allergic or parasitic disorders. Although some progress has been made in understanding the development of eosinophil-mediated inflammation in allergic and parasitic diseases, the discovery of new compounds to control eosinophilia has lagged behind other advances. Plant-derived secondary metabolites are the basis for many drugs currently used to treat pathologic conditions, including eosinophilic diseases. Several studies, including our own, have demonstrated that plant extracts and secondary metabolites can reduce eosinophilia and eosinophil recruitment in different experimental animal models. In this review, we summarize these studies and describe the anti-eosinophilic activity of various plant extracts, such as Ginkgo biloba, Allium cepa, and Lafoensia pacari, as well as those of secondary metabolites (compounds isolated from plant extracts), such as quercetin and ellagic acid. In addition, we highlight the medical potential of these plant-derived compounds for treating eosinophil-mediated inflammation, such as asthma and allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre P Rogerio
- Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Getúlio Guaritá s/n, Uberaba, MG 38025-440, Brazil.
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Murata RM, Yatsuda R, dos Santos MH, Kohn LK, Martins FT, Nagem TJ, Alencar SM, de Carvalho JE, Rosalen PL. Antiproliferative effect of benzophenones and their influence on cathepsin activity. Phytother Res 2010; 24:379-83. [PMID: 19653314 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The antiproliferative activity of two prenylated benzophenones isolated from Rheedia brasiliensis, the triprenylated garciniaphenone and the tetraprenylated benzophenone 7-epiclusianone, was investigated against human cancer cell lines. The antiproliferative activity on melanoma (UACC-62), breast (MCF-7), drug-resistant breast (NCI-ADR), lung/non-small cells (NCI460), ovarian (OVCAR 03), prostate (PC03), kidney (786-0), lung (NCI-460) and tongue (CRL-1624 and CRL-1623) cancer cells was determined using spectrophotometric quantification of the cellular protein content. The effect of these benzophenones on the activity of cathepsins B and G was also investigated. Garciniaphenone displayed cytostatic activity in all cell lines, whereas 7-epiclusianone showed a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect. The IC(50) values for cell proliferation revealed that 7-epiclusianone is more active than garciniaphenone against most of the cell lines. Furthermore, the antiproliferative effects demonstrated by garciniaphenone and 7-epiclusianone were related to their cathepsin inhibiting properties. In conclusion, 7-epiclusianone is a promising naturally occurring agent which displays multiple inhibitory effects which may be working in concert to inhibit cancer cell proliferation in vitro. The putative pathway by which 7-epiclusianone affects cancer cell development may involve cathepsin inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramiro Mendonça Murata
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry of Piracicaba, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), SP, Brazil.
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Freitas AM, Almeida MTR, Andrighetti-Fröhner CR, Cardozo FTGS, Barardi CRM, Farias MR, Simões CMO. Antiviral activity-guided fractionation from Araucaria angustifolia leaves extract. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2009; 126:512-517. [PMID: 19761825 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2009] [Revised: 08/21/2009] [Accepted: 09/03/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Araucaria angustifolia (Bert.) O. Kuntze (Araucariaceae) is a Brazilian medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of various illnesses including dried skin, wounds, shingles, and sexually transmitted diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY The rationale of the study was to provide evidence of its antiherpes activity in order to confirm its popular use that could be related to herpes disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS The crude hydroethanolic extract (HE) obtained from Araucaria angustifolia leaves was submitted to a sequential liquid-liquid extraction with solvents of increased polarity. The HE and fractions obtained were evaluated for cytotoxicity and antiherpes activity (Herpes Simplex Virus type 1) by MTT assay. The most active fractions were selected to perform an in vitro antiviral activity-guided chromatographic fractionation. RESULTS The ethyl acetate (EA) and n-butanol (NB) fractions have shown the best results for antiherpetic activity and their further fractionation yielded 22 subfractions. From these subfractions, 14 were active, and the most potent antiherpetic activity was obtained for NB1-4 subfraction with selectivity index (SI) of 57.51. Chemical analysis of NB1-4 subfractions revealed the presence of proanthocyanidins and the known biflavonoids (bilobetin, II-7-O-methyl-robustaflavone and cupressuflavone). The same biflavonoids have been detected in EA subfractions. CONCLUSION The present study has shown that the hydroethanolic extract from Araucaria angustifolia leaves as well as many different fractions and subfractions exhibited antiherpes activity, supporting the use of this plant species in folk medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Freitas
- Departamento de Química, Centro Politécnico, Universidade Federal do Paraná, CP 19.081, CEP 81.531-990, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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Paranhos JT, Fragoso V, da Silveira VC, Henriques AT, Fett-Neto AG. Organ-specific and environmental control of accumulation of psychollatine, a major indole alkaloid glucoside from Psychotria umbellata. BIOCHEM SYST ECOL 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bse.2009.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Na-Bangchang K, Karbwang J. Current status of malaria chemotherapy and the role of pharmacology in antimalarial drug research and development. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2009; 23:387-409. [PMID: 19709319 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2009.00709.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Antimalarial drugs have played a mainstream role in controlling the spread of malaria through the treatment of patients infected with the plasmodial parasites and controlling its transmissibility. The inadequate armory of drugs in widespread use for the treatment of malaria, development of strains resistant to currently used antimalarials, and the lack of affordable new drugs are the limiting factors in the fight against malaria. In addition, other problems with some existing agents include unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties and adverse effects/toxicity. These factors underscore the continuing need of research for new classes of antimalarial agents, and a re-examination of the existing antimalarial drugs that may be effective against resistant strains. In recent years, major advances have been made in the pharmacology of several antimalarial drugs both in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics aspects. These include the design, development, and optimization of appropriate dosage regimens of antimalarials, basic knowledge in metabolic pathways of key antimalarials, as well as the elucidation of mechanisms of action and resistance of antimalarials. Pharmacologists have been working in close collaboration with scientists in other disciplines of science/biomedical sciences for more understanding on the biology of the parasite, host, in order to exploit rational design of drugs. Multiple general approaches to the identification of new antimalarials are being pursued at this time. All should be implemented in parallel with focus on the rational development of new agents directed against newly identified parasite targets. With major advances in our understanding of malaria parasite biology coupled with the completion of the malaria genome, has presented exciting opportunities for target-based antimalarial drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesara Na-Bangchang
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumtanee, Thailand.
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Balbani APS, Silva DHS, Montovani JC. Patents of drugs extracted from Brazilian medicinal plants. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2009; 19:461-73. [PMID: 19441926 DOI: 10.1517/13543770902824180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plants synthesise a vast repertoire of chemicals with various biological activities. Brazilian enormous botanical diversity facilitates the development of novel ethical drugs for the treatment of diseases in humans. OBJECTIVE To present therapeutic patent applications comprising Brazilian native plants published in the 2003-2008 period in light of legal aspects of patentability of biodiversity and public health concerns. METHODS Therapeutic patent applications related to Brazilian medicinal plants available at both the European Patent Office and the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property databases were reviewed. RESULTS/CONCLUSION Twenty-five patents are presented, most of which concern inflammatory, allergic, parasitic, infectious or digestive diseases, including extracts from Carapa guianensis, Copaifera genus, Cordia verbenacea, Erythrina mulungu, Physalis angulata and other pharmaceutical compositions with antileishmanial, antimalarial or trypanocidal activity. Brazilian research centres and universities are responsible for most of these inventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aracy P S Balbani
- Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University, Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department, Botucatu, Rua Capitao Lisboa, 715-cj. 33, 18270-070, Tatui, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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Almeida LSB, Murata RM, Yatsuda R, Dos Santos MH, Nagem TJ, Alencar SM, Koo H, Rosalen PL. Antimicrobial activity of Rheedia brasiliensis and 7-epiclusianone against Streptococcus mutans. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 15:886-891. [PMID: 18276126 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2007.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2007] [Revised: 10/31/2007] [Accepted: 12/07/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
This in vitro study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of extracts obtained from Rheedia brasiliensis fruit (bacupari) and its bioactive compound against Streptococcus mutans. Hexane, ethyl-acetate and ethanolic extracts obtained (concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 800 microg/ml) were tested against S. mutans UA159 through MIC/MBC assays. S. mutans 5-days-old biofilms were treated with the active extracts (100 x MIC) for 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4h (time-kill) and plated for colony counting (CFU/ml). Active extracts were submitted to exploratory chemical analyses so as to isolate and identify the bioactive compound using spectroscopic methods. The bioactive compound (concentrations ranging from 0.625 to 80 microg/ml) was then tested through MIC/MBC assays. Peel and seed hexane extracts showed antimicrobial activity against planktonic cells at low concentrations and were thus selected for the time kill test. These hexane extracts reduced S. mutans biofilm viability after 4h, certifying of the bioactive compound presence. The bioactive compound identified was the polyprenylated benzophenone 7-epiclusianone, which showed a good antimicrobial activity at low concentrations (MIC: 1.25-2.5 microg/ml; MBC: 10-20 microg/ml). The results indicated that 7-epiclusianone may be used as a new agent to control S. mutans biofilms; however, more studies are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of action and the anticariogenic potential of such compound found in R. brasiliensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S B Almeida
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry of Piracicaba, State University of Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Pauli I, Caceres RA, de Azevedo WF. Molecular modeling and dynamics studies of Shikimate Kinase from Bacillus anthracis. Bioorg Med Chem 2008; 16:8098-108. [PMID: 18706819 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2008.07.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Revised: 07/17/2008] [Accepted: 07/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus anthracis has been used as weapon in bioterrorist activities, with high mortality, despite anti-microbial treatment, which strongly indicates a need of new drugs to treat anthrax. Shikimate Pathway is a seven-step biosynthetic route which generates chorismic acid. The shikimate pathway is essential for many pathological organisms, whereas it is absent in mammals. Therefore, these enzymes are potential targets for the development of non-toxic anti-microbial agents and herbicides and have been submitted to intensive structural studies. Shikimate Kinase is the fifth enzyme of shikimate pathway and catalyzes the specific phosphorylation of the 3-hydroxyl group of shikimate using ATP as a co-substrate, resulting in shikimate-3-phosphate and ADP. The present work describes for the first time a structural model for the Shikimate Kinase from B. anthracis using molecular modeling approach and molecular dynamics simulations. This study was able to identify the main residues of the ATP-binding and the shikimate pockets responsible for ligand affinities. Analysis of the molecular dynamics simulations indicates the structural features responsible for the stability of the structure. This study may help in the identification of new inhibitors for this enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivani Pauli
- Faculdade de Biociências, Laboratório de Bioquímica Estrutural, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, Porto Alegre, 90619-900 Rio Grande do Sul, CEP, Brazil
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Oloyede A, Okpuzor J, Omidiji O, Mbagwu H. A Pharmacological Evaluation of A Herbal Cocktail. INT J PHARMACOL 2008. [DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2008.196.201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Murata RM, Branco de Almeida LS, Yatsuda R, Dos Santos MH, Nagem TJ, Rosalen PL, Koo H. Inhibitory effects of 7-epiclusianone on glucan synthesis, acidogenicity and biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2008; 282:174-81. [PMID: 18371068 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2008.01117.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of 7-epiclusianone, a new prenylated benzophenone isolated from the plant Rheedia gardneriana, on some of the virulence properties of Streptococcus mutans associated with biofilm development and acidogenicity. The synthesis of glucans by glucosyltransferases B (GTF B) and C (GTF C) was markedly reduced by 7-epiclusianone showing more than 80% inhibition of enzymatic activity at a concentration of 100 microg mL(-1). Double-reciprocal analysis (Lineweaver-Burk plots) revealed that the inhibition of GTF B activity was noncompetitive (mixed) while GTF C was inhibited uncompetitively. The glycolytic pH drop by S. mutans cells was also disrupted by 7-epiclusianone without affecting the bacterial viability, an effect that can be attributed, in part, to inhibition of F-ATPase activity (61.1+/-3.0% inhibition at 100 microg mL(-1)). Furthermore, topical applications (1-min exposure, twice daily) of 7-epiclusianone (at 250 microg mL(-1)) disrupted biofilm formation and physiology. The biomass (dry-weight), extracellular insoluble polysaccharide concentration and acidogenicity of the biofilms were significantly reduced by the test agent (P<0.05). The data show that 7-epiclusianone disrupts the extracellular and intracellular sugar metabolism of S. mutans, and holds promise as a novel, naturally occurring compound to prevent biofilm-related oral diseases.
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de Mendonça JD, Ely F, Palma MS, Frazzon J, Basso LA, Santos DS. Functional characterization by genetic complementation of aroB-encoded dehydroquinate synthase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and its heterologous expression and purification. J Bacteriol 2007; 189:6246-52. [PMID: 17586643 PMCID: PMC1951933 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00425-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2007] [Accepted: 06/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent recrudescence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains have created an urgent need for new therapeutics against tuberculosis. The enzymes of the shikimate pathway are attractive drug targets because this route is absent in mammals and, in M. tuberculosis, it is essential for pathogen viability. This pathway leads to the biosynthesis of aromatic compounds, including aromatic amino acids, and it is found in plants, fungi, bacteria, and apicomplexan parasites. The aroB-encoded enzyme dehydroquinate synthase is the second enzyme of this pathway, and it catalyzes the cyclization of 3-deoxy-D-arabino-heptulosonate-7-phosphate in 3-dehydroquinate. Here we describe the PCR amplification and cloning of the aroB gene and the overexpression and purification of its product, dehydroquinate synthase, to homogeneity. In order to probe where the recombinant dehydroquinate synthase was active, genetic complementation studies were performed. The Escherichia coli AB2847 mutant was used to demonstrate that the plasmid construction was able to repair the mutants, allowing them to grow in minimal medium devoid of aromatic compound supplementation. In addition, homogeneous recombinant M. tuberculosis dehydroquinate synthase was active in the absence of other enzymes, showing that it is homomeric. These results will support the structural studies with M. tuberculosis dehydroquinate synthase that are essential for the rational design of antimycobacterial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordana Dutra de Mendonça
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Ipiranga, 6681, Tecnopuc, Prédio 92A, 90619-900, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Frutuoso VDS, Monteiro MM, Amendoeira FC, Almeida ALF, do Nascimento DD, Bérenger ALR, Kaplan MAC, Figueiredo MR, Bozza PT, Castro-Faria-Neto HC. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of the aqueous extract of Rheedia longifolia Planch & Triana. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2007; 102:91-6. [PMID: 17294007 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762007000100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2006] [Accepted: 01/15/2007] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheedia longifolia Planch et Triana belongs to the Clusiaceae family. This plant is widely distributed in Brazil, but its chemical and pharmacological properties have not yet been studied. We report here that leaves aqueous extract of R. longifolia (LAE) shows analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Oral or intraperitoneal administration of this extract dose-dependently inhibited the abdominal constrictions induced by acetic acid in mice. The analgesic effect and the duration of action were similar to those observed with sodium diclofenac, a classical non-steroidal analgesic. In addition to the effect seen in the abdominal constriction model, LAE was also able to inhibit the hyperalgesia induced by lipopolysaccharide from gram-negative bacteria (LPS) in rats. We also found that R. longifolia LAE inhibited an inflammatory reaction induced by LPS in the pleural cavity of mice. Acute toxicity was evaluated in mice treated with the extract for seven days with 50 mg/kg/day. Neither death, nor alterations in weight, blood leukocyte counts or hematocrit were noted. Our results suggest that aqueous extract from R. longifolia leaves has analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity with minimal toxicity and are therefore endowed with a potential for pharmacological control of pain and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valber da Silva Frutuoso
- Laboratório de Imunofarmacologia, Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacodinâmica, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brasil.
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Borges JC, Pereira JH, Vasconcelos IB, dos Santos GC, Olivieri JR, Ramos CHI, Palma MS, Basso LA, Santos DS, de Azevedo WF. Phosphate closes the solution structure of the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2006; 452:156-64. [PMID: 16876105 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2006.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2006] [Revised: 04/24/2006] [Accepted: 05/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase catalyses the sixth step of the shikimate pathway that is responsible for synthesizing aromatic compounds and is absent in mammals, which makes it a potential target for drugs development against microbial diseases. Here, we report the phosphate binding effects at the structure of the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This enzyme is formed by two similar domains that close on each other induced by ligand binding, showing the occurrence of a large conformation change. We have monitored the phosphate binding effects using analytical ultracentrifugation, small angle X-ray scattering and, circular dichroism techniques. The low resolution results showed that the enzyme in the presence of phosphate clearly presented a more compact structure. Thermal-induced unfolding experiments followed by circular dichroism suggested that phosphate rigidified the enzyme. Summarizing, these data suggested that the phosphate itself is able to induce conformational change resulting in the closure movement in the M. tuberculosis 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlio C Borges
- Departamento de Física, UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
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Dias MVB, Borges JC, Ely F, Pereira JH, Canduri F, Ramos CHI, Frazzon J, Palma MS, Basso LA, Santos DS, de Azevedo WF. Structure of chorismate synthase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. J Struct Biol 2006; 154:130-43. [PMID: 16459102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2005.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2005] [Revised: 11/08/2005] [Accepted: 12/09/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In bacteria, fungi, plants, and apicomplexan parasites, the aromatics compounds, such as aromatics amino acids, are synthesized through seven enzymes from the shikimate pathway, which are absent in mammals. The absence of this pathway in mammals make them potential targets for development of new therapy against infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, which is the world's second commonest cause of death from infectious disease. The last enzyme of shikimate pathway is the chorismate synthase (CS), which is responsible for conversion of the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate to chorismate. Here, we report the crystallographic structure of CS from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MtCS) at 2.65 A resolution. The MtCS structure is similar to other CS structures, presenting beta-alpha-beta sandwich structural topology, in which each monomer of MtCS consists of a central helical core. The MtCS can be described as a tetramer formed by a dimer of dimers. However, analytical ultracentrifugation studies suggest the MtCS is a dimer with a more asymmetric shape than observed on the crystallographic dimer and the existence of a low equilibrium between dimer and tetramer. Our results suggest that the MtCS oligomerization is concentration dependent and some conformational changes must be involved on that event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcio V B Dias
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Física, UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
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