Unleashing new MTDL AChE and BuChE inhibitors as potential anti-AD therapeutic agents: In vitro, in vivo and in silico studies

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is challenging due to its irreversible declining cognitive symptoms and multifactorial nature. This work tackles targeting both acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and BuChE with a multitarget-directed ligand (MTDL) through design, synthesis, and biological and in silico evaluation of a series of twenty eight new 5-substituted-2-anilino-1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives 4a-g, 5a-g, 9a-g and 13a-g dual inhibitors of the target biomolecules. In vitro cholinesterases inhibition and selectivity assay of the synthesized derivatives showed excellent nanomolar level inhibitory activities. Compound 5a, the most potent inhibitor, elicited IC50s of 46.9 and 3.5 nM against AChE and BuChE, respectively (SI = 0.07), 5 folds better than the known dual inhibitor Rivastagmine. In vivo and ex vivo investigation showed that 5a significantly inhibited MDA levels and increased GSH contents, thus, attenuating the brain tissue oxidative stress. Additionally, 5a significantly decreased AChE and BuChE levels and inhibited self-mediated β-amyloid aggregation in brains of treated rats. Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation demonstrated lessened damage and decreased caspase-3 and VEGF expression levels. In silico prediction of 5a's pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles reflected promising results. Finally, 5a demonstrated tight binding interactions with the two target biomolecules upon docking along with stable complex formation with its bio-targets throughout the 100 ns MD trajectories.

Preparation and characterization of Sorafenib nano-emulsion: impact on pharmacokinetics and toxicity; an in vitro and in vivo study

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Current treatment strategies include surgical resection, liver transplantation, liver-directed therapy, and systemic therapy. Sorafenib (Sor) is the first systemic drug authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for HCC treatment. Nevertheless, the conventional oral administration of Sor presents several limitations: poor solubility, low bioavailability, drug resistance development, and off-target tissue accumulation, leading to numerous adverse effects. Nano-emulsion, a nano-delivery system, is a viable carrier for poorly water-soluble drugs. It aims to enhance drug bioavailability, target organ accumulation, and reduce off-target tissue exposure, thus improving therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects. This study formulated Sor nano-emulsion (Sor NanoEm) using the homogenization technique. The resultant nano-emulsion was characterized by particle size (121.75 ± 12 nm), polydispersity index (PDI; 0.310), zeta potential (-12.33 ± 1.34 mV), viscosity (34,776 ± 3276 CPs), and pH (4.38 ± 0.3). Transmission Electron Microscopy exhibited spherical nano-droplets with no aggregation signs indicating stability. Furthermore, the encapsulation of Sor within the nano-emulsion sustained its release, potentially reducing the frequency of therapeutic doses. Cytotoxicity assessments on the HepG2 cell line revealed that Sor NanoEm had a significantly (P < 0.05) more potent cytotoxic effect compared to Sor suspension. Subsequent tests highlighted superior pharmacokinetic parameters and reduced dosage requirements of Sor NanoEm in mice. It exhibited an enhanced safety profile, particularly in behavior, brain, and liver, compared to its suspended form. These findings underscore the enhanced pharmacological and toxicological attributes of Sor Nano-emulsion, suggesting its potential utility in HCC treatment.

Unlocking the miRNA-34a-5p/TGF-β and HMGB1/PI3K/Akt/mTOR crosstalk participate in the enhanced cardiac protection of liraglutide against isoproterenol-induced acute myocardial injury rat model

Liraglutide (LIRA), a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus that belongs to the glucagon-like peptide-1 class, has recently drawn attention for its potential cardioprotective properties because of its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. This current investigation was designed to assess the impact of LIRA on myocardial injury induced by isoproterenol (ISO). The experiment included 24 male Wistar rats in total, and they were divided into four groups: Control, LIRA (200 µg/kg/12 hrs., S.C.), ISO (85 mg/kg, S.C.), and ISO + LIRA. To assess the results, various biochemical and histopathological analyses were carried out. The findings showed elevated serum enzyme levels, a sign of cardiac injury. ISO-treated rats showed an upregulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers like MDA, MPO, nitrites, NADPH oxidase, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, 8-Hydroxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and TGF-β, as well as altered gene expressions like TLR-1 and miRNA-34a-5p. According to western blotting analysis, protein levels of AKT, PI3K, and mTOR were obviously enhanced. Additionally, ISO-treated samples showed altered tissue morphology, elevated caspase 3, and decreased Bcl2 concentrations. The levels of these dysregulated parameters were significantly normalized by LIRA therapy, demonstrating its cardioprotective function against ISO-induced myocardial injury in rats. This protective mechanism was linked to anti-inflammatory properties, redox balance restoration, and modulation of the miRNA-34a-5p/TGF-β pathway.

Dapagliflozin alleviates arsenic trioxide-induced hepatic injury in rats via modulating PI3K/AkT/mTOR, STAT3/SOCS3/p53/MDM2 signaling pathways and miRNA-21, miRNA-122 expression

Dapagliflozin (DPG) is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor that is commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, studies have shown that DPG has a protective effect under a variety of experimental conditions through its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. DPG's effect on experimental hepatotoxicity caused by arsenic trioxide (ATO) has yet to be investigated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of DPG in preventing hepatic damage caused by ATO and discover the underlying mechanisms. The effect of DPG (1 mg/kg, orally) on ATO (5 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced hepatic injury was evaluated in rats. Serum liver function parameters, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers and inflammatory cytokine levels were assessed. Histopathological changes in the liver were detected using H&E staining. Using Western blotting and PCR techniques, the molecular mechanisms of DPG in ameliorating hepatic injury were investigated. DPG improved liver function by inhibiting histopathological changes, decreasing levels of hepatic function and toxicity parameters measured in both serum and tissues, and exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, according to the findings. Consistent with the PCR results, DPG also decreased the expression of LC3-II, micro-RNA-122, and micro-RNA-21 while increased the expression of SOCS3. Furthermore, according to western blotting results, DPG was able to reduce the protein expression of AKT, mTOR, PI3K, and STAT3. Although further clinical research is necessary, this study highlights the potential of DPG in preventing liver damage in a rat model of hepatotoxicity induced by ATO.

Protective role of hesperetin in sorafenib-induced hepato- and neurotoxicity in mice via modulating apoptotic pathways and mitochondrial reprogramming

INTRODUCTION

Sorafenib, an FDA-approved standard chemotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, is associated with numerous adverse effects that significantly impact patients' physiological well-being. Consequently, identifying agents that mitigate these side effects while enhancing efficacy is crucial. Hesperetin, a flavone present in fruits and vegetables, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. This study aimed to investigate the hepatotoxic and neurotoxic effects of sorafenib and the potential protective role of hesperetin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Swiss albino mice were orally administered sorafenib (100 mg/kg) alone or in combination with hesperetin (50 mg/kg) over 21 days. Behavioral assessments for anxiety and depressive-like behaviors were conducted. Additionally, evaluations encompassed apoptotic activity, mitochondrial integrity, liver enzyme levels, proliferation rates, and histopathological changes.

RESULTS

Combining hesperetin with sorafenib showed improvements in behavioral alterations, liver damage, brain mitochondrial dysfunction, and liver apoptosis compared to the sorafenib-only group in mice.

CONCLUSION

Hesperetin exhibits potential as an adjunct to sorafenib, mitigating its side effects by attenuating its toxicity, enhancing efficacy, and potentially reducing the occurrence of sorafenib-induced resistance through the downregulation of hepatocyte growth factor levels.

Orexin pathway in Parkinson's disease: a review

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease (NDD) caused by dopaminergic neuron degeneration in the substantia nigra (SN). Orexin is a neuropeptide that plays a role in the pathogenesis of PD. Orexin has neuroprotective properties in dopaminergic neurons. In PD neuropathology, there is also degeneration of orexinergic neurons in the hypothalamus, in addition to dopaminergic neurons. However, the loss of orexinergic neurons in PD began after the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Reduced activity of orexinergic neurons has been linked to developing and progressing motor and non-motor symptoms in PD. In addition, the dysregulation of the orexin pathway is linked to the development of sleep disorders. The hypothalamic orexin pathway regulates various aspects of PD neuropathology at the cellular, subcellular, and molecular levels. Finally, non-motor symptoms, particularly insomnia and disturbed sleep, promote neuroinflammation and the accumulation of neurotoxic proteins as a result of defects in autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and the glymphatic system. As a result, this review aimed to highlight the potential role of orexin in PD neuropathology.

Combined β-sitosterol and trimetazidine mitigate potassium dichromate-induced cardiotoxicity in rats through the interplay between NF-κB/AMPK/mTOR/TLR4 and HO-1/NADPH signaling pathways

Hexavalent chromium salt, like potassium dichromate (PD), is chromium's most precarious valence state in industrial wastes. Recently, there has been increasing interest in β-sitosterol (BSS), a bioactive phytosterol, as a dietary supplement. BSS is recommended in treating cardiovascular disorders due to its antioxidant effect. Trimetazidine (TMZ) was used traditionally for cardioprotection. Through the administration of BSS and TMZ, the cardiotoxic effects of PD were to be countered in this study, in addition to examining the precise mechanism of PD-induced cardiotoxicity. Thirty male albino rats were divided into five groups; the control group: administered normal saline daily (3 mL/kg); the PD group: administered normal saline daily (3 mL/kg); BSS group: administered BSS daily (20 mg/kg); TMZ group: administered TMZ daily (15 mg/kg); and the BSS + TMZ group: administered both BSS (20 mg/kg) and TMZ (15 mg/kg) daily. All experimental groups, except the control, received on the 19th day a single dose of PD (30 mg/kg/day, S.C.). Normal saline, BSS, and TMZ were received daily for 21 consecutive days p.o. The exposure to PD promoted different oxidative stresses, pro-inflammatory, and cardiotoxicity biomarkers. BSS or TMZ succeeded solely in reducing these deleterious effects; however, their combination notably returned measured biomarkers close to normal values. The histopathological investigations have supported the biochemical findings. The combination of BSS and TMZ protects against PD cardiotoxicity in rats by reducing oxidative stress and apoptotic and inflammatory biomarkers. It may be promising for alleviating and protecting against PD-induced cardiotoxicity in people at an early stage; however, these findings need further clinical studies to be confirmed. HIGHLIGHTS: • Potassium dichromate induces cardiotoxicity in rats through the upregulation of oxidative stress, proinflammatory, and apoptotic pathways biomarkers. • β-Sitosterol possesses a possible cardioprotective effect by modulating several signaling pathways. • Trimetazidine, the antianginal agent, has a potential cardioprotective impact on PD-intoxicated rat model. • The combination of β-Sitosterol and trimetazidine was the best in modulating different pathways involved in PD cardiotoxicity in rats via the interplay between NF-κB/AMPK/mTOR/TLR4 and HO-1/NADPH signaling pathways.

Comparing the effectiveness of L-carnitine and paraffin oil in acute aluminum phosphide poisoning using predictive biomarkers and scores: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Aluminum phosphide (AlP) poisoning is a serious medical emergency with a high mortality rate. The absence of an exact antidote for AlP poisoning necessitates the quest for alternative treatment options. The study sought to assess the efficacy of adding L-carnitine or medicated paraffin oil to the conventional approach of treatment employed in cases of acute AlP poisoning. We conducted a 1 year, randomized, controlled, parallel-group, single-blind clinical study. 96 individuals with acute AlP poisoning were randomly assigned to one of three groups. The standard AlP therapy was administered to all groups according to the Poison Control Center guidelines at the Ain-Shams University hospitals. All patients underwent a medical history review, clinical examination, and laboratory tests. The outcomes were assessed. The participants in the study groups had mean ages ranging from 25.6 to 26.3 years. The cases analyzed were evenly distributed between genders, with the majority originating from rural areas. The average delay time varied from 2.9 to 4.2 h. All patients in the study reported ingesting AlP during suicide attempts. 12 hours after admission, many clinical and biochemical data improved in both intervention groups including cytochrome c oxidase, caspase-3, caspase-9, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. The intervention groups required significantly less mechanical ventilation and had a lower mortality rate than the control group. Decontamination with paraffin oil could be advantageous for reducing the severity of AlP poisoning, improving prognosis, and lowering the mortality rate.

Salix subserrata Bark Extract-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Attenuate Neurotoxicity Induced by Sodium Arsenate in Rats in Relation with HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS Profile

Pollution is a worldwide environmental risk. Arsenic (As) is an environmental pollutant with a major health concern due to its toxic effects on multiple body organs, including the brain. Humans are exposed to As through eating contaminated food and water or via skin contact. Salix species (willow) are plants with medicinal efficacy. Salix subserrata Willd bark extract-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SBE.CNPs) was formulated, characterized, and evaluated against As-induced neurotoxicity. The stem bark was selected for nanoparticle formulation based on HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS profiling and in vitro antioxidant assessment using free radical scavenging activity. SBE.CNPs demonstrated an average un-hydrated diameter of 193.4 ± 24.5 nm and zeta potential of + 39.6 ± 0.4 mV with an encapsulation efficiency of 83.7 ± 4.3%. Compared to As-intoxicated rats, SBE.CNP-treated rats exhibited anxiolytic activity and memory-boosting as evidenced in open field test, light-dark activity box, and Y-maze. Also, it increased the antioxidant biomarkers, including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase associated with reducing the malondialdehyde levels and apoptotic activity. Besides this, SBE.CNPs maintained the brain architecture and downregulated both nuclear factor-kappa B and heme oxygenase-1 expression. These results suggest that SBE.CNP administration showed promising potent neuroprotective and antioxidative efficiencies against arsenic-induced oxidative threats.

Hesperetin mitigates sorafenib-induced cardiotoxicity in mice through inhibition of the TLR4/NLRP3 signaling pathway

Sorafenib is an oral multi-kinase receptor inhibitor that targets various signaling pathways. It is used as the first line of treatment in advanced hepatocellular and renal cell carcinomas. Sorafenib was reported to induce cardiotoxicity due to myocyte necrosis. Hesperetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. This study investigated the putative protective effect of hesperetin against sorafenib-induced cardiotoxicity in mice through downregulation of NLRP3/TLR4 signaling and inhibition of apoptosis. Twenty-four male Swiss mice were distributed into four groups: untreated control, hesperetin (50 mg/kg/day, orally), sorafenib (100 mg/kg/day, orally), and combination (Hesperetin+Sorafenib). After a three-week treatment period, various biochemical parameters in cardiac tissues were assessed. TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels were measured. Moreover, TLR4 and NLRP3 expressions were evaluated using Western blot analysis. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemical assessment of apoptotic activity were done. Compared with the sorafenib group, the combination group exhibited reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 levels and lower NLRP3/TLR4 expressions. Histologically, the combination group showed improved myocardial histology and a marked decrease in collagen deposition. Immunohistochemical examination showed decreased caspase-3 and increased Bcl-2 expression. Before recommending hesperetin as an adjuvant, clinical studies are warranted for mitigating sorafenib cardiotoxicity.

Impact of different processing methods on the phenolics and neuroprotective activity of Fragaria ananassa Duch. extracts in a D-galactose and aluminum chloride-induced rat model of aging

Age-related diseases, including dementia, are a major health concern affecting daily human life. Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) is the most eaten fruit worldwide due to its exceptional aroma and flavor. However, it's rapid softening and decay limit its shelf-life. Freezing and boiling represent the well-known conservation methods to extend its shelf-life. Therefore, we aimed to discover the phytochemical content differences of fresh and processed strawberries associated with investigating and comparing their neuroprotective effects in a rat model of aging. Female Wistar rats were orally pretreated with fresh, boiled, and frozen F. ananassa methanolic extracts (250 mg kg-1) for 2 weeks, and then these extracts were concomitantly exposed to D-galactose [65 mg kg-1, subcutaneously (S/C)] and AlCl3 (200 mg kg-1, orally) for 6 weeks to develop aging-like symptoms. The results of UPLC/ESI-MS phytochemical profiling revealed 36 secondary metabolites, including phenolics, flavonoids, and their glycoside derivatives. Compared with boiled and frozen extracts, the fresh extract ameliorated the behavioral deficits including anxiety and cognitive dysfunction, upregulated brain HO-1 and Nrf2 levels, and markedly reduced caspase-3 and PPAR-γ levels. Moreover, LDH and miRNA-9, 124 and 132 protein expressions were reduced. The histological architecture of the brain hippocampus was restored and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunoexpression was downregulated. In conclusion, the fresh extract has neuroprotective activity that could have a promising role in ameliorating age-related neurodegeneration.

Switching indication of PEGylated lipid nanocapsules-loaded with rolapitant and deferasirox against breast cancer: Enhanced in-vitro and in-vivo cytotoxicity

Breast cancer (BC) is considered the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among adult women worldwide, and it is associated with many genetic or hormonal factors. Despite the advanced therapeutic and theranostic strategies for BC treatment, cancer metastasis and relapse are often observed among patients which lead to therapeutic failure. Accordingly, among the repositioned medication against BC proliferation is neurokinin receptor antagonists and iron chelating agents especially rolapitant HCl (RP) and deferasirox (DFO). However, RP and DFO are classified as class II with low aqueous solubility. Both drugs were nanoformulated into PEGylated lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) for enhancing their aqueous solubility and augmenting their efficacy. RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and their combinations were evaluated according to particle size (PS), zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI) and surface morphology. Importantly, the antitumor effect of these novel molecules and their nanoforms was evaluated against the suppression of Ehrlich Ascites tumor model using female mice. Results revealed that RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and RP/DFO-LNCs exerted PS from 45.23 ± 3.54 to 60.1 ± 3.32 nm with PDI around 0.20 which indicates homogenous particles distribution. Also, RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and RP/DFO-LNCs displayed surface charges of +16.6 ± 6.9, -13.3 ± 5.82 and - 20.2 ± 5.40 mV, respectively. The obtained LNCs conferred a high potent cytotoxic effect against MCF7 cancer cells as compared to parent drugs, with IC₅₀ of 10.86 ± 0.89, 3.34 ± 0.99 and 2.24 ± 0.97 μg/mL for RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and RP/DFO-LNCs, respectively. The in-vivo pharmacodynamics effect of the developed nano-formulations showed superior antitumor effect for the individual drugs rather than their combinations as compared to the control group. The current study confirmed the potential of RP and DFO nanoforms as promising therapeutic agents for BC treatment.

Rhamnolipid Nano-Micelles versus Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer: A Comparative Study for Antibacterial Activity against Hospital-Acquired Infections and Toxicity Concerns

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are considered to be a major global healthcare challenge, in large part because of the development of microbial resistance to currently approved antimicrobial drugs. HAIs are frequently preventable through infection prevention and control measures, with hand hygiene as a key activity. Improving hand hygiene was reported to reduce the transmission of healthcare-associated pathogens and HAIs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are commonly used due to their rapid action and broad spectrum of microbicidal activity, offering protection against bacteria and viruses. However, their frequent administration has been reported to be associated with many side effects, such as skin sensitivity, skin drying, and cracks, which promote further skin infections. Thus, there is an essential need to find alternative approaches to hand sanitation. Rhamnolipids are glycolipids produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and were shown to have broad antimicrobial activity as biosurfactants. We have previously demonstrated the antimicrobial activity of rhamnolipid nano-micelles against selected drug-resistant Gram-negative (Salmonella Montevideo and Salmonella Typhimurium) and Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae). To the best of our knowledge, the antimicrobial activity of rhamnolipid nano-micelles in comparison to alcohol-based hand sanitizers against microorganisms commonly causing HAIs in Egypt—such as Acinetobacter baumannii and Staphylococcus aureus—has not yet been studied. In the present work, a comparative study of the antibacterial activity of rhamnolipid nano-micelles versus alcohol-based hand sanitizers was performed, and their safety profiles were also assessed. It was demonstrated that rhamnolipid nano-micelles had a comparable antibacterial activity to alcohol-based hand sanitizer, with a better safety profile, i.e., rhamnolipid nano-micelles are unlikely to cause any harmful effects on the skin. Thus, rhamnolipid nano-micelles could be recommended to replace alcohol-based hand sanitizers; however, they must still be tested by healthcare workers in healthcare settings to ascertain their antimicrobial activity and safety.

Discovery of New 1,3,4-Oxadiazoles with Dual Activity Targeting the Cholinergic Pathway as Effective Anti-Alzheimer Agents

Finding an effective anti-Alzheimer agent is quite challenging due to its multifactorial nature. As such, multitarget directed ligands (MTDLs) could be a promising paradigm for finding potential therapeutically effective new small-molecule bioactive agents against Alzheimer's disease (AD). We herein present the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a new series of compounds based on a 5-pyrid-3-yl-1,3,4-oxadiazole scaffold. Our synthesized compounds displayed excellent in vitro enzyme inhibitory activity at nanomolar (nM) concentrations against two major AD disease-modifying targets, i.e., acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). Among our compounds, 5e was considered the best dual inhibitor of both AChE (IC₅₀ = 50.87 nM) and BuChE (IC₅₀ = 4.77 nM), where these values surpassed those of rivastagmine (the only FDA-approved dual AChE and BuChE inhibitor) in our study. Furthermore, in vivo and ex vivo testing of the hit compound 5e highlighted its significant AD-biotargeting effects including reducing the elevated levels of lipid peroxidation and glutathione (GSH), normalizing levels of 8-OHdG, and, most importantly, decreasing the levels of the well-known AD hallmark β-amyloid protein. Finally, the binding ability of 5e to each of our targets, AChE and BuChE, was confirmed through additional molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations that reflected good interactions of 5e to the active site of both targets. Hence, we herein present a series of new 1,3,4-oxadiazoles that are promising leads for the development of dual-acting AChE and BuChE inhibitors for the management of AD.

Antitumor and multikinase inhibition activities of some synthesized coumarin and benzofuran derivatives

Two new series of coumarin and benzofuran derivatives were designed, synthesized, and assessed for their in vitro and in vivo antitumor activities against breast cancer. Compounds 8, 9, 14, 15, and 17 exhibited the best antiproliferative activities (IC₅₀ : 0.07-2.94 μM) against the MCF-7 cell line, compared with lapatinib (IC₅₀ : 4.69 μM). Compound 14, with the most potent cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells, was capable of enhancing preG1 apoptosis and triggering cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. The kinase inhibitory activity of compound 14 against a panel of 22 kinases was examined to reveal multikinase inhibition within -39% to -97%. Furthermore, compound 14 exhibited potent in vivo Ehrlich (mammary adenocarcinoma) tumor regression, positive caspase-3, and negative EGFR immunoreaction, and was capable of elevating the catalase level. The physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic parameters of compound 14 were investigated in silico for its druglikeness.

Selenium Nanoparticles with Prodigiosin Rescue Hippocampal Damage Associated with Epileptic Seizures Induced by Pentylenetetrazole in Rats

Simple Summary

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease characterized by neuronal hyper electrical activity and the development of unprovoked seizures. Although several antiepileptic drugs are currently available, their application is associated with undesirable adverse effects. In an attempt to find a novel antiepileptic medication with minimum side effects, we have investigated the potential neuroprotective activity of prodigiosin, a red pigment produced by bacterial species that have important pharmaceutical and biological activities biosynthesized with selenium formulation (SeNPs-PDG) against a murine epileptic model mediated by pentylenetetrazole. The main recorded findings revealed that SeNPs-PDG delayed the onset of epileptic seizures and decreased their duration significantly. Additionally, SeNPs-PDG prevented hippocampal cell loss, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, restored the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, and notably normalized the monoaminergic and cholinergic transmission. These promising findings indicate that SeNPs-PDG might serve as a naturally derived anticonvulsant agent due to their active antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuromodulatory properties.

Abstract

Background: Prodigiosin (PDG) is a red pigment synthesized by bacterial species with important pharmaceutical and biological activities. Here, we investigated the neuroprotective and anticonvulsant activities of green biosynthesized selenium formulations with PDG (SeNPs-PDG) versus pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced epileptic seizures. Methods: Rats were assigned into six experimental groups: control; PTZ (60 mg/kg, epileptic model); sodium valproate (200 mg/kg) + PTZ; PDG (300 mg/kg) + PTZ; sodium selenite (0.5 mg/kg) + PTZ; and SeNPs-PDG (0.5 mg/kg) + PTZ. The treatment duration is extended to 28 days. Results: SeNPs-PDG pre-treatment delayed seizures onset and reduced duration upon PTZ injection. Additionally, SeNPs-PDG enhanced the antioxidant capacity of hippocampal tissue by activating the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 and innate antioxidants (glutathione and glutathione derivatives, in addition to superoxide dismutase and catalase) and decreasing the levels of pro-oxidants (lipoperoxidation products and nitric oxide). SeNPs-PDG administration inhibited inflammatory reactions associated with epileptic seizure development by suppressing the production and activity of glial fibrillary acidic protein and pro-inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and nuclear factor kappa B. Moreover, SeNPs-PDG protected against hippocampal cell loss following PTZ injection by decreasing the levels of cytosolic cytochrome c, Bax, and caspase-3 and enhancing the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. Interestingly, SeNPs-PDG restored the PTZ-induced imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory amino acids and improved monoaminergic and cholinergic transmission. Conclusions: These promising antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuromodulatory activities indicate that SeNPs-PDG might serve as a naturally derived anticonvulsant agent.

Antiulcer activity of proanthocyanidins is mediated via suppression of oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic machineries

Gastric ulcer (GU) is a lesion in the gastric mucosa associated with excessive oxidative damage, inflammatory response, apoptotic events, and irritation which may develop into cancer. However, medications commonly used in GU treatment cannot normalize gastric mucosa, while causing several adverse effects. Proanthocyanidins (PAs) are dietary flavonoids with numerous biological and pharmacological activities. In the current investigation, we studied the potential anti-ulcerative activity of PAs against acidified ethanol (HCl/ethanol)-caused gastric ulceration. Fifty male albino Wistar rats were allocated into five equal groups: control, HCl/ethanol (3 mL/kg), lansoprazole (LPZ, 30 mg/kg) + HCl/ethanol, and PAs (100 and 250 mg/kg) + HCl/ethanol. LPZ and PAs were applied one week before gastric ulcer induction. PAs pretreatment notably reduced gastric mucosal macroscopic and microscopic pathological changes in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, PAs activated the innate antioxidant molecules including glutathione and its derived antioxidants (glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase), along with superoxide dismutase and catalase, while attenuating pro-oxidant formation, including malondialdehyde and nitric oxide. Interestingly, PAs supplementation at a higher dose suppressed gastric inflammatory and apoptotic responses, as demonstrated by the reduced levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, high-mobility group box 1, cyclooxygenase 2, prostaglandin E2, nuclear factor kappa-B, Bcl-2-associated X protein, and caspase-3, while B cell lymphoma 2 was elevated. Hence, PAs could exhibit antiulcer activity by protecting gastric tissue from the development of oxidative damage, inflammatory responses, and apoptosis events associated with ulceration. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Gastric ulcer is a lesion in the gastric mucosal layer associated with excessive inflammatory response, apoptotic events, oxidative damage, and irritation, and may develop into cancer with about 5%-10% morbidity rate. However, medications commonly used in GU treatment cannot normalize gastric mucosa, while causing several adverse effects. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches are needed to treat or prevent gastric ulceration. Proanthocyanidins (PAs, condensed tannins) are dietary flavonoids found in abundance in different plant species, including their fruits, bark, and seeds. Due to their potent antioxidative activity, PAs have been applied to prevent or treat oxidative stress-related diseases, including cancer, as well as metabolic, neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and inflammatory disorders. Here, we examine the potential therapeutic role of proanthocyanidins (PAs) against acidified ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats through evaluating oxidative challenge, inflammatory response, apoptotic events, and histopathological changes in the gastric tissue.

RNA-targeting Therapy: A Promising Approach to Reach Non-Druggable Targets

The term "non-druggable" refers to a protein that cannot be targeted pharmacologically; recently, significant efforts have been made to convert these proteins into targets that are reachable or "druggable." Pharmacologically targeting these difficult proteins has emerged as a major challenge in modern drug development, necessitating the innovation and development of new technologies. The idea of using RNA-targeting therapeutics as a platform to reach unreachable targets is very appealing. Antisense oligonucleotides, nucleic acid or aptamers, RNA interference therapeutics, microRNA, and synthetic RNA are examples of RNA-targeting therapeutics. Many of these agents were FDA-approved for the treatment of rare or genetic diseases, as well as molecular markers for disease diagnosis. As a promising type of therapeutic, many studies are being conducted in order for more and more of them to be approved and used in different disease treatments and to shift them from treating rare diseases only to being used as more specific targeting agents in the treatment of various common diseases. This article will look at some of the most recent technological and pharmaceutical advances that have contributed to the erosion of the concept of undruggability.

Carissa macrocarpa Leaves Polar Fraction Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats via Downregulating the Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers

Chemotherapeutic-related toxicity exacerbates the increasing death rate among cancer patients, necessitating greater efforts to find a speedy solution. An in vivo assessment of the protective effect of the C. macrocarpa leaves polar fraction of hydromethanolic extract against doxorubicin (Dox)-induced neurotoxicity was performed. Intriguingly, this fraction ameliorated Dox-induced cognitive dysfunction; reduced serum ROS and brain TNF-α levels, upregulated the brain nerve growth factor (NGF) levels, markedly reduced caspase-3 immunoexpression, and restored the histological architecture of the brain hippocampus. The in vivo study results were corroborated with a UPLC-ESI-MS/MS profiling that revealed the presence of a high percentage of the plant polyphenolics. Molecular modeling of several identified molecules in this fraction demonstrated a strong binding affinity of flavan-3-ol derivatives with TACE enzymes, in agreement with the experimental in vivo neuroprotective activity. In conclusion, the C. macrocarpa leaves polar fraction possesses neuroprotective activity that could have a promising role in ameliorating chemotherapeutic-induced side effects.

Carissa macrocarpa Leaves Polar Fraction Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats via Downregulating the Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers

Chemotherapeutic-related toxicity exacerbates the increasing death rate among cancer patients, necessitating greater efforts to find a speedy solution. An in vivo assessment of the protective effect of the C. macrocarpa leaves polar fraction of hydromethanolic extract against doxorubicin (Dox)-induced neurotoxicity was performed. Intriguingly, this fraction ameliorated Dox-induced cognitive dysfunction; reduced serum ROS and brain TNF-α levels, upregulated the brain nerve growth factor (NGF) levels, markedly reduced caspase-3 immunoexpression, and restored the histological architecture of the brain hippocampus. The in vivo study results were corroborated with a UPLC-ESI-MS/MS profiling that revealed the presence of a high percentage of the plant polyphenolics. Molecular modeling of several identified molecules in this fraction demonstrated a strong binding affinity of flavan-3-ol derivatives with TACE enzymes, in agreement with the experimental in vivo neuroprotective activity. In conclusion, the C. macrocarpa leaves polar fraction possesses neuroprotective activity that could have a promising role in ameliorating chemotherapeutic-induced side effects.

Carissa macrocarpa Leaves Polar Fraction Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats via Downregulating the Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers

Chemotherapeutic-related toxicity exacerbates the increasing death rate among cancer patients, necessitating greater efforts to find a speedy solution. An in vivo assessment of the protective effect of the C. macrocarpa leaves polar fraction of hydromethanolic extract against doxorubicin (Dox)-induced neurotoxicity was performed. Intriguingly, this fraction ameliorated Dox-induced cognitive dysfunction; reduced serum ROS and brain TNF-α levels, upregulated the brain nerve growth factor (NGF) levels, markedly reduced caspase-3 immunoexpression, and restored the histological architecture of the brain hippocampus. The in vivo study results were corroborated with a UPLC-ESI-MS/MS profiling that revealed the presence of a high percentage of the plant polyphenolics. Molecular modeling of several identified molecules in this fraction demonstrated a strong binding affinity of flavan-3-ol derivatives with TACE enzymes, in agreement with the experimental in vivo neuroprotective activity. In conclusion, the C. macrocarpa leaves polar fraction possesses neuroprotective activity that could have a promising role in ameliorating chemotherapeutic-induced side effects.

The Role of Vildagliptin in Treating Hypertension Through Modulating Serum VEGF in Diabetic Hypertensive Patients

BACKGROUND

Several trials have reported that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are used to improve endothelial function in addition to treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The current study investigated the effects of vildagliptin, DPP-4 inhibitor, compared to metformin on endothelial function and blood pressure through vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) modulation in patients with T2DM and hypertension.

METHODS

This study was designed as a randomized controlled parallel study. A total of 120 volunteers were recruited and allocated into 4 groups: healthy volunteers, patients recently diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes, patients treated with captopril for hypertension in addition to metformin, and patients treated with captopril in addition to vildagliptin. The percentage change in body weight was calculated in addition to serum VEGF levels, blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1c), total lipid profile, and insulin resistance.

RESULTS

At the end of the therapeutic period, the results showed that vildagliptin significantly decreased blood pressure and increased serum VEGF levels, while metformin was more effective at lowering body weight. In comparison with metformin, vildagliptin showed a promising action through its antihypertensive effect via elevating VEGF levels and improving physiological angiogenesis and vasculature.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

Vildagliptin showed a promising action through its blood pressure-regulating effect via modulating VEGF levels and improving physiological angiogenesis and vasculature, in addition to improving the lipid profile of patients, while metformin was better in reducing body weight.