Sulfur (SⅥ)-containing heterocyclic hybrids as antibacterial agents against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and its SAR

The discovery of new small molecule-based inhibitors is an attractive field in medicinal chemistry. Structurally diversified heterocyclic derivatives have been investigated to combat multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and they offers several mechanism of action. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming more and more deadly to humans because of its simple method of transmission, quick development of antibiotic resistance, and ability to cause hard-to-treat skin and filmy diseases. The sulfur (SVI) particularly sulfonyl and sulfonamide based heterocyclic moieties, have found to be good anti-MRSA agents. The development of new nontoxic, economical and highly active sulfur (SVI) containing derivatives has become hot research topics in drug discovery research. Presently, more than 150 FDA approved Sulfur (SVI)-based drugs are available in the market, and they are widely used to treat various types of diseases with different therapeutic potential. The present collective data provides the latest advancements in Sulfur (SVI)-hybrid compounds as antibacterial agents against MRSA. It also examines the outcomes of in-vitro and in-vivo investigations, exploring potential mechanisms of action and offering alternative perspectives on the structure-activity relationship (SAR). Sulfur (SVI)-hybrids exhibits synergistic effects with existing drugs to provide antibacterial action against MRSA.

Transmembrane protein 25 abrogates monomeric EGFR-driven STAT3 activation in triple-negative breast cancer

In wild-type cells, TMEM25 physically associates with EGFR monomer and suppresses the EGFR-mediated STAT3 phosphorylation, which results in the sequestration of unphosphorylated STAT3 in the cytoplasm. In TMEM-/- cells, EGFR monomer phosphorylates STAT3 at the basal level.

The strict regulation of HIF-1α by non-coding RNAs: new insight towards proliferation, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance strategies

The hypoxic environment is prominently witnessed in most solid tumors and is associated with the promotion of cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, therapeutic resistance, and metastasis of tumor cells. All the effects are mediated by the expression of a transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). HIF-1α transcriptionally modulates the expression of genes responsible for all the aforementioned functions. The stability of HIF-1α is regulated by many proteins and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). In this article, we have critically discussed the crucial role of ncRNAs [such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs)] in the regulation of stability and expression of HIF-1α. We have comprehensively discussed the molecular mechanisms and relationship of HIF-1α with each type of ncRNA in either promotion or repression of human cancers and therapeutic resistance. We have also elaborated on ncRNAs that are in clinical examination for the treatment of cancers. Overall, the majority of aspects concerning the relationship between HIF-1α and ncRNAs have been discussed in this article.

Leonurine ameliorates the STAT3 pathway through the upregulation of SHP-1 to retard the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcription factor that directs the transcription of genes involved in the promotion of cell survival and proliferation, inflammation, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration. Overactivation of STAT3 is often witnessed in human cancers, thereby making it a good target in oncology. Herein the efficacy of Leonurine (Leo), a bioactive alkaloid present in Herba leonuri, was investigated for its STAT3-inhibitory potential in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Leo downregulated the persistent as well as IL-6-driven activation of STAT3. Leo abrogated the nuclear localization and DNA interacting ability of STAT3. Leo was also found to impart STAT3 inhibition by mitigating the activation of upstream kinases such as JAK1, JAK2, and Src both in constitutive and IL-6 inducible systems. Leo curbed the STAT3-driven luciferase gene expression and the depletion of STAT3 resulted in the reduced responsiveness of HCC cells to Leo. Pervanadate exposure counteracted Leo-induced STAT3 inhibition suggesting the involvement of a protein tyrosine phosphatase. SHP-1 was significantly elevated upon Leo exposure whereas the depletion of SHP-1 was found to revert the effect of Leo on STAT3. Leo induced apoptosis and also significantly potentiated the cytotoxic effect of paclitaxel, doxorubicin, and sorafenib. Leo was found to be non-toxic up to the dose of 10 mg/kg in NCr nude mice. In conclusion, Leo was demonstrated to induce cytotoxicity in HCC cells by mitigating the persistent of activation of STAT3 pathway.

c-MET pathway in human malignancies and its targeting by natural compounds for cancer therapy

BACKGROUND

c-MET is a receptor tyrosine kinase which is classically activated by HGF to activate its downstream signaling cascades such as MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and STAT3. The c-MET modulates cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immune response, morphogenesis, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. The c-MET has been shown to serve a prominent role in embryogenesis and early development. The c-MET pathway is deregulated in a broad range of malignancies, due to overexpression of ligands or receptors, genomic amplification, and MET mutations. The link between the deregulation of c-MET signaling and tumor progression has been well-documented. Overexpression or overactivation of c-MET is associated with dismal clinical outcomes and acquired resistance to targeted therapies. Since c-MET activation results in the triggering of oncogenic pathways, abrogating the c-MET pathway is considered to be a pivotal strategy in cancer therapeutics. Herein, an analysis of role of the c-MET pathway in human cancers and its relevance in bone metastasis and therapeutic resistance has been undertaken. Also, an attempt has been made to summarize the inhibitory activity of selected natural compounds towards c-MET signaling in cancers.

METHODS

The publications related to c-MET pathway in malignancies and its natural compound modulators were obtained from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar and summarized based on PRISMA guidelines. Some of the keywords used for extracting relevant literature are c-MET, natural compound inhibitors of c-MET, c-MET in liver cancer, c-MET in breast cancer, c-MET in lung cancer, c-MET in pancreatic cancer, c-MET in head and neck cancer, c-MET in bone metastasis, c-MET in therapeutic resistance, and combination of c-MET inhibitors and chemotherapeutic agents. The chemical structure of natural compounds was verified in PubChem database.

RESULTS

The search yielded 3935 publications, of which 195 reference publications were used for our analysis. Clinical trials were referenced using ClinicalTrials.gov identifier. The c-MET pathway has been recognized as a prominent target to combat the growth, metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance in cancers. The key role of the c-MET in bone metastasis as well as therapeutic resistance has been elaborated. Also, suppressive effect of selected natural compounds on the c-MET pathway in clinical/preclinical studies has been discussed.

Alternative Approach to Access 5-Hydroxy-1H-pyrrol-2-(5H)-ones from Base-Induced Tandem Intramolecular Cyclization of Sulfur Ylide with Ketones and 1,3-Hydroxy Rearrangement

An easily adaptable protocol for the preparation of 5-hydroxy-1H-pyrrol-2(5H)-ones from readily available starting materials has been reported. The reaction of sulfur ylides with carbonyl compounds is a common approach to synthesizing epoxides. Alternatively, we have developed a method with mild reaction conditions wherein sulfur ylide underwent an intramolecular cyclization with a ketonic carbonyl group in a highly efficient way and was followed by 1,3-hydroxy rearrangement to produce 5-hydroxy-1H-pyrrol-2(5H)-ones in excellent yields. The present method offers a straightforward approach to synthesize 5-hydroxy-1H-pyrrol-2(5H)-ones from sulfur ylides without the aid of transition metal in one-pot operation, which involves sequential cyclization and rearrangement reaction. The formation of 5-hydroxy-1H-pyrrol-2(5H)-ones is supported by different spectroscopic techniques, including X-ray crystallographic data and 2D NMR studies (COSY, HSQC, HMBC, and DEPT).

A new triazolyl-indolo-quinoxaline induces apoptosis in gastric cancer cells by abrogating the STAT3/5 pathway through upregulation of PTPεC

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and STAT5 are the transcription factors that have been studied extensively in relevance to the development of cancers in humans. Suppression of either STAT3 or STAT5-mediated signaling events has been demonstrated to be effective in inducing cytotoxicity in cancer cells. Herein, new hybrids of triazolyl-indolo-quinoxaline are synthesized and examined for their effect on the activation of STAT3 and STAT5 pathways in gastric cancer (GC) cells. Among the newly synthesized compounds, 2,3-difluoro-6-((1-(3-fluorophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-5-yl)methyl)-6H-indolo[2,3-b]quinoxaline (DTI) displayed selective cytotoxicity against GC cells over their normal counterpart. Flow cytometric analysis, annexin-V-fluorescein isothiocyanate staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, live and dead assay, and caspase activation experiments suggested DTI as a potent inducer of apoptosis. The mechanistic approach revealed that DTI imparts cytotoxicity via downregulating the phosphorylation of STAT3Y705 and STAT5Y694/699 . DTI significantly reduced the nuclear pool of STAT3/STAT5 and reduced the DNA interaction ability of STAT3/STAT5 as evidenced by immunofluorescence and electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Further investigation revealed that inhibitory effects towards STAT proteins were mediated through the suppression of upstream kinases such as JAK1, JAK2, and Src. Treatment of GC cells with pervanadate counteracted the DTI-driven STAT3/STAT5 inhibition suggesting the involvement of tyrosine phosphatase. Upon DTI exposure, there was a significant upregulation in the mRNA and protein expression of PTPεC, which is a negative regulator of the JAK-STAT pathway. Knockdown of PTPεC suppressed the DTI-induced STATs inhibition in GC cells. Taken together, triazolyl-indolo-quinoxaline is presented as a new inhibitor of the STAT3/STAT5 pathway in GC cells.

Microwave assisted one-pot access to pyrazolo quinolinone and tetrahydroisoxazolo quinolinone derivatives via T3P®-DMSO catalysed tandem oxidative-condensation reaction

A new approach for the synthesis of two important annulated pyrazolo quinolinone and tetrahydroisoxazolo quinolinone derivatives from multicomponent reactions was achieved by using T3P®-DMSO-catalysed reactions of stable alcohols, cyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds and amino derivatives of phenyl pyrazoles and isoxazole and has been reported for the first time. This reaction occurred via a tandem oxidative-condensation reaction under microwave irradiation and notable characteristics of this protocol are MCR reactions, shorter reaction time, less waste creation, ease of workup, stable precursors, broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance.

Natural compounds targeting nuclear receptors for effective cancer therapy

Human nuclear receptors (NRs) are a family of forty-eight transcription factors that modulate gene expression both spatially and temporally. Numerous biochemical, physiological, and pathological processes including cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, immune modulation, development, reproduction, and aging are extensively orchestrated by different NRs. The involvement of dysregulated NRs and NR-mediated signaling pathways in driving cancer cell hallmarks has been thoroughly investigated. Targeting NRs has been one of the major focuses of drug development strategies for cancer interventions. Interestingly, rapid progress in molecular biology and drug screening reveals that the naturally occurring compounds are promising modern oncology drugs which are free of potentially inevitable repercussions that are associated with synthetic compounds. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to draw our attention to the potential therapeutic effects of various classes of natural compounds that target NRs such as phytochemicals, dietary components, venom constituents, royal jelly-derived compounds, and microbial derivatives in the establishment of novel and safe medications for cancer treatment. This review also emphasizes molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that are leveraged to promote the anti-cancer effects of these natural compounds. We have also critically reviewed and assessed the advantages and limitations of current preclinical and clinical studies on this subject for cancer prophylaxis. This might subsequently pave the way for new paradigms in the discovery of drugs that target specific cancer types.

Noncoding RNAs as regulators of STAT3 pathway in gastrointestinal cancers: Roles in cancer progression and therapeutic response

Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors (cancers of the esophagus, gastric, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum) contribute to a large number of deaths worldwide. STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that promotes the transcription of genes associated with proliferation, antiapoptosis, survival, and metastasis. STAT3 is overactivated in many human malignancies including GI tumors which accelerates tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. Research in recent years demonstrated that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a major role in the regulation of many signaling pathways including the STAT3 pathway. The major types of endogenous ncRNAs that are being extensively studied in oncology are microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs. These ncRNAs can either be tumor-promoters or tumor-suppressors and each one of them imparts their activity via different mechanisms. The STAT3 pathway is also tightly modulated by ncRNAs. In this article, we have elaborated on the tumor-promoting role of STAT3 signaling in GI tumors. Subsequently, we have comprehensively discussed the oncogenic as well as tumor suppressor functions and mechanism of action of ncRNAs that are known to modulate STAT3 signaling in GI cancers.

CXCR4 expression is elevated in TNBC patient derived samples and Z-guggulsterone abrogates tumor progression by targeting CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis in mice model

Environmental factors such as exposure to ionizing radiations, certain environmental pollutants, and toxic chemicals are considered as risk factors in the development of breast cancer. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a molecular variant of breast cancer that lacks therapeutic targets such as progesterone receptor, estrogen receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 which makes the targeted therapy ineffective in TNBC patients. Therefore, identification of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of TNBC and the discovery of new therapeutic agents is the need of the hour. In this study, CXCR4 was found to be highly expressed in majority of breast cancer tissues and metastatic lymph nodes derived from TNBC patients. CXCR4 expression is positively correlated with breast cancer metastasis and poor prognosis of TNBC patients suggesting that suppression of CXCR4 expression could be a good strategy in the treatment of TNBC patients. Therefore, the effect of Z-guggulsterone (ZGA) on the expression of CXCR4 in TNBC cells was examined. ZGA downregulated protein and mRNA expression of CXCR4 in TNBC cells and proteasome inhibition or lysosomal stabilization had no effect on the ZGA-induced CXCR4 reduction. CXCR4 is under the transcriptional control of NF-κB, whereas ZGA was found to downregulate transcriptional activity NF-κB. Functionally, ZGA downmodulated the CXCL12-driven migration/invasion in TNBC cells. Additionally, the effect of ZGA on growth of tumor was investigated in the orthotopic TNBC mice model and ZGA presented good inhibition of tumor growth and liver/lung metastasis in this model. Western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis indicated a reduction of CXCR4, NF-κB, and Ki67 in tumor tissues. Computational analysis suggested PXR agonism and FXR antagonism as targets of ZGA. In conclusion, CXCR4 was found to be overexpressed in majority of patient-derived TNBC tissues and ZGA abrogated the growth of TNBC tumors by partly targeting the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis.

Phytochemicals as Invaluable Sources of Potent Antimicrobial Agents to Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Plants have been used for therapeutic purposes against various human ailments for several centuries. Plant-derived natural compounds have been implemented in clinics against microbial diseases. Unfortunately, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance has significantly reduced the efficacy of existing standard antimicrobials. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared antimicrobial resistance as one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to discover new antimicrobial agents against drug-resistant pathogens. In the present article, we have discussed the importance of plant metabolites in the context of their medicinal applications and elaborated on their mechanism of antimicrobial action against human pathogens. The WHO has categorized some drug-resistant bacteria and fungi as critical and high priority based on the need to develope new drugs, and we have considered the plant metabolites that target these bacteria and fungi. We have also emphasized the role of phytochemicals that target deadly viruses such as COVID-19, Ebola, and dengue. Additionally, we have also elaborated on the synergetic effect of plant-derived compounds with standard antimicrobials against clinically important microbes. Overall, this article provides an overview of the importance of considering phytogenous compounds in the development of antimicrobial compounds as therapeutic agents against drug-resistant microbes.

Mechanism of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in cancer and its regulation by natural compounds

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex process with a primordial role in cellular transformation whereby an epithelial cell transforms and acquires a mesenchymal phenotype. This transformation plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and self-renewal, and exacerbates resistance to apoptosis and chemotherapy. EMT can be initiated and promoted by deregulated oncogenic signaling pathways, hypoxia, and cells in the tumor microenvironment, resulting in a loss-of-epithelial cell polarity, cell-cell adhesion, and enhanced invasive/migratory properties. Numerous transcriptional regulators, such as Snail, Slug, Twist, and ZEB1/ZEB2 induce EMT through the downregulation of epithelial markers and gain-of-expression of the mesenchymal markers. Additionally, signaling cascades such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Sonic hedgehog, nuclear factor kappa B, receptor tyrosine kinases, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Hippo, and transforming growth factor-β pathways regulate EMT whereas they are often deregulated in cancers leading to aberrant EMT. Furthermore, noncoding RNAs, tumor-derived exosomes, and epigenetic alterations are also involved in the modulation of EMT. Therefore, the regulation of EMT is a vital strategy to control the aggressive metastatic characteristics of tumor cells. Despite the vast amount of preclinical data on EMT in cancer progression, there is a lack of clinical translation at the therapeutic level. In this review, we have discussed thoroughly the role of the aforementioned transcription factors, noncoding RNAs (microRNAs, long noncoding RNA, circular RNA), signaling pathways, epigenetic modifications, and tumor-derived exosomes in the regulation of EMT in cancers. We have also emphasized the contribution of EMT to drug resistance and possible therapeutic interventions using plant-derived natural products, their semi-synthetic derivatives, and nano-formulations that are described as promising EMT blockers.

A panoramic view on synthetic applications of α-oxothioamides: a highly regioselective synthesis of 2-acyl-4-(het)arylthiazoles and thioethers

Highly regioselective synthesis of 2-acyl-4-(het)arylthiazoles and thioethers by the reaction between α-oxothioamides and α-bromoketones in the absence of base in DMF and in the presence of triethylamine in acetonitrile, respectively, has been reported. This thiazole synthesis is an important extended work of the Hantzsch thiazole synthesis, which overcomes the drawbacks of earlier reported methods. The probable mechanisms for the formation of thiazoles and thioethers are also presented.

Identification and characterization of mercaptopyrimidine-based small molecules as inhibitors of nonhomologous DNA end joining

Mercaptopyrimidine derivatives are heterocyclic compounds with potent biological activities including antiproliferative, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study describes the synthesis and characterization of several mercaptopyrimidine derivatives through condensation of 5,6-diamino-2-mercaptopyrimidin-4-ol with various heterocyclic and aromatic aldehydes. Previous studies have shown that SCR7, synthesized from 5,6-diamino-2-mercaptopyrimidin-4-ol, induced cytotoxicity by targeting cancer cells by primarily inhibiting DNA Ligase IV involved in nonhomologous end joining, one of the major DNA double-strand break repair pathways. Inhibition of DNA repair pathways is considered as an important strategy for cancer therapy. Due to limitations of SCR7 in terms of IC₅₀ in cancer cells, here we have designed, synthesized, and characterized potent derivatives of SCR7 using 5,6-diamino-2-mercaptopyrimidin-4-ol as the starting material. Several synthesized imine compounds exhibited significant improvement in inhibition of end joining and cytotoxicity up to 27-fold lower concentrations than SCR7. Among these, two compounds, SCR116 and SCR132, showed increased cancer cell death in a Ligase IV-dependent manner. Treatment with the compounds also led to reduction in V(D)J recombination efficiency, cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, accumulation of double-strand breaks inside cells, and improved anti-cancer potential when combined with γ-radiation and radiomimetic drugs. Thus, we describe novel inhibitors of NHEJ with higher efficacy and potential, which can be developed as cancer therapeutics.

Brucein D imparts a growth inhibitory effect in multiple myeloma cells by abrogating the Akt-driven signaling pathway

The Akt signaling pathway is an oncogenic cascade activated in the bone marrow microenvironment of multiple myeloma (MM) cells and contributes to their uncontrolled proliferation. Abrogation of Akt signaling has been presented as one of the prime therapeutic targets in the treatment of MM. In the present report, we have investigated the effect of Brucein D (BD) on Akt-driven signaling events in MM cells. BD (300 nM) substantially inhibited cell viability and imparted growth-inhibitory effects in U266 cells as evidenced by cell viability assays and flow cytometric analysis. Effect of BD on cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Apoptotic cells and cell cycle arrest by BD were analyzed by flow cytometer. The results of the TUNEL assay and western blotting showed that BD induces apoptosis of MM cells by activating caspase-8 and 9 with subsequent reduction in the expression of antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, survivin, cyclin D1, COX-2, VEGF, MMP-9). Analysis of activated kinases by Phospho-Kinase Array Kit revealed that Akt, p70S6K, HSP60, p53, and WNK1 were strongly expressed in untreated cells and BD treatment reversed this effect. Using transfection experiments, AKT depletion led to a decrease in phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, and WNK. However, Akt overexpression led to increase in phosphorylation of these proteins. Depletion of Akt potentiated the apoptosis-inducing effect of BD whereas overexpression displayed resistance to BD-induced apoptosis suggesting the role of Akt in chemoresistance. Taken together, BD mitigates Akt-dependent signaling pathways in MM cells to impart its anticancer activity.

Novel Synthetic Indazoles Abrogate Angiogenesis in Erlich Ascites Tumor Bearing Mice

BACKGROUND

Indazoles are known for their anti-cancer properties.

OBJECTIVE

The current investigation was on the synthesis and evaluation of novel indazole derivatives for their anticancer properties.

METHODS

A series of novel indazoles were synthesized and characterized by IR, NMR and LCMS. We performed cytotoxic studies for all synthesized compounds on different cell lines such as HeLa, MCF-7 and EAC using MTT assay. The lead compound was tested further for its anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic effect on EAT tumor model.

RESULTS

Amongst the series of compounds synthesized, compound KA8 showed potent antiproliferative effect against Hela, MCF-7 and EAC cell lines with IC50 values 10.4 to 11.5 and 13.5 μM respectively. In addition, our compound KA8 significantly decreased the cell viability, body weight, ascites volume and it also showed superior survival ability of mice compared to control groups. Furthermore, it suppressed the formation of neovasculature in the peritoneum of EAT-bearing mice.

CONCLUSION

The findings reveal that the lead compound KA8 possesses potent anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic properties thereby promising it to be developed as a novel anticancer agent with further mechanistic studies.

Synthesis of Piperidine Conjugated Quinoxalines as Potential Antibiofilm Agents

aims:

N-(1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl)quinoxalin-2-amines were synthesized and evaluated for antisalmonella activity against S. paratyphi.

background:

The most common cause of foodborne illness is bacterial or viral contamination. Although there are several therapeutics available to combat against these microbes, they lost their efficacy in long term medication. Because, over a period of time microbes developed a resistance against the drugs and this antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat to global public health as a consequence widely disseminated and careless use of antimicrobials. Therefore, there is a need to develop some new chemical moieties with a safety factor and better efficacy. A series of substituted N-(1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl)quinoxalin-2-amines (5a-j) (5ab, 5ac) were synthesized and screened for their in-vitro antibacterial activity against Salmonella paratyphi, a well-known food borne pathogen.

objective:

N-(1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl)quinoxalin-2-amines were synthesized and evaluated for antisalmonella activity against S. paratyphi.

method:

Experimental methods, Agar well diffusion and Broth microdilution assays were carried out to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the lead compounds. Further antibiofilm methods, Crystal violet and MTT assays were subjected to investigate their biofilm inhibition capacity against S. paratyphi.

result:

Among tested compounds, 5b, 5e, 5h and 5j bearing 4-chloro, 3,4-dimethoxy, 4-methyl and thienyl groups on phenyl ring of quinoxalines were emerged as potential candidates having a significant antisalmonella activity. In these four potential candidates, compounds 5b and 5h effective against salmonella whereas compounds 5e and 5j effectively inhibited the biofilm formation of salmonella.

conclusion:

N-(1-benzylpiperidin-4-yl)quinoxalin-2-amines (5a-j) (5ab, 5ac) were synthesized and evaluated for antisalmonella activity against S. paratyphi. Among series of compounds, four compounds significantly showed good activity and emerged as antibacterial agents for further studies in future.

other:

Nil

Nimbolide enhances the antitumor effect of docetaxel via abrogation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in prostate cancer preclinical models

Prostate cancer is the second most frequent type of cancer that affects men. Docetaxel (DTX) administration is the front-line therapy for patients with advanced prostate cancer and unfortunately, half of these patients develop resistance to DTX which could be due to its ability to activate the NF-κB pathway. The combinational effect of DTX and nimbolide on proliferation, apoptosis, activation of NF-κB, DNA binding ability of NF-κB, and expression of NF-κB-targeted gene products was investigated. The antitumor and antimetastatic effect of DTX or NL alone or in combination was also examined. The co-administration of NL and DTX resulted in a significant loss of cell viability with enhanced apoptosis in DTX-sensitive/resistant prostate cancer cells. NL abrogated DTX-triggered NF-κB activation and expression of its downstream antiapoptotic factors (survivin, Bcl-2, and XIAP). The combination of NL and DTX significantly reduced the DNA binding ability of NF-κB in both cell types. NL significantly enhanced the antitumor effect of DTX and reduced metastases in orthotopic models of prostate cancer. NL abolishes DTX-induced-NF-κB activation to counteract cell proliferation, tumor growth, and metastasis in the prostate cancer models.

A comprehensive review of the multifaceted role of the microbiota in human pancreatic carcinoma

Pancreatic carcinoma is associated with one of the worst clinical outcomes throughout the globe because of its aggressive, metastatic, and drug-resistant nature. During the past decade, several studies have shown that oral, gut, and tumor microbiota play a critical role in the modulation of metabolism and immune responses. Growing pieces of evidence have proved beyond a doubt that the microbiota has a unique ability to influence the tumor microenvironment as well as the metabolism of chemotherapeutic agents or drugs. Given this, microbiota, known as the ecological community of microorganisms, stands to be an avenue of quality research. In this review, we provide detailed and critical information on the role of oral, gut, and pancreatic microbiota disruptions in the development of pancreatic carcinoma. Moreover, we comprehensively discuss the different types of microbiota, their potential role, and mechanism associated with pancreatic carcinoma. The microbiome provides the unique opportunity to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents and immunotherapies for pancreatic cancer by maintaining the right type of microbiota and holds a promising future to enhance the clinical outcomes of patients with pancreatic carcinoma.

Monomerization of Homodimeric Trefoil Factor 3 (TFF3) by an Aminonitrile Compound Inhibits TFF3-Dependent Cancer Cell Survival

Trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) is a secreted protein with an established oncogenic function and a highly significant association with clinical progression of various human malignancies. Herein, a novel small molecule that specifically targets TFF3 homodimeric functions was identified. Utilizing the concept of reversible covalent interaction, 2-amino-4-(4-(6-fluoro-5-methylpyridin-3-yl)phenyl)-5-oxo-4H,5H-pyrano[3,2-c]chromene-3-carbonitrile (AMPC) was identified as a molecule that interacted with TFF3. AMPC monomerized the cellular and secreted TFF3 homodimer at the cysteine (Cys)57-Cys57 residue with subsequent more rapid degradation of the generated TFF3 monomers. Hence, AMPC treatment also resulted in cellular depletion of TFF3 with consequent decreased cell viability in various human carcinoma-derived TFF3 expressing cell lines, including estrogen receptor positive (ER+) mammary carcinoma (MC). AMPC treatment of TFF3 expressing ER+ MC cells significantly suppressed total cell number in a dose-dependent manner. Consistently, exposure of TFF3 expressing ER+ MC cells to AMPC decreased soft agar colony formation, foci formation, and growth in suspension culture and inhibited growth of preformed colonies in 3D Matrigel. AMPC increased apoptosis in TFF3 expressing ER+ MC cells associated with decreased activity of EGFR, p38, STAT3, AKT, and ERK, decreased protein levels of CCND1, CCNE1, BCL2, and BCL-XL, and increased protein levels of TP53, CDKN1A, CASP7, and CASP9. siRNA-mediated depletion of TFF3 expression in ER+ MC cells efficiently abrogated AMPC-stimulated loss of cell viability and CASPASE 3/7 activities. Furthermore, in mice bearing ER+ MC cell-generated xenografts, AMPC treatment significantly impeded xenograft growth. Hence, AMPC exemplifies a novel mechanism by which small molecule drugs may inhibit a dimeric oncogenic protein and provides a strategy to impede TFF3-dependent cancer progression.

Microwave-Assisted, Metal-Free, Chemoselective N-Formylation of Amines using 2-Formyl-3-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium Iodide and In Situ Synthesis of Benzimidazole and Isocyanides

An efficient, environmentally benign, chemoselective, microwave-assisted N-formylation protocol of aromatic, aliphatic, alicyclic, benzylic amines, inactivated aromatic amines and sterically demanding heterocyclic amines using 2-formyl-1,3-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium iodide has been developed. This affords a series of N-substituted formamides with good to excellent yields (23 examples, 53–96% yield) and can be readily scaled. The methodology can be further extended to synthesize benzimidazole and isocyanide derivatives.

Escaping mechanisms of ESKAPE pathogens from antibiotics and their targeting by natural compounds

The microorganisms that have developed resistance to available therapeutic agents are threatening the globe and multidrug resistance among the bacterial pathogens is becoming a major concern of public health worldwide. Bacteria develop protective mechanisms to counteract the deleterious effects of antibiotics, which may eventually result in loss of growth-inhibitory potential of antibiotics. ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.) pathogens display multidrug resistance and virulence through various mechanisms and it is the need of the hour to discover or design new antibiotics against ESKAPE pathogens. In this article, we have discussed the mechanisms acquired by ESKAPE pathogens to counteract the effect of antibiotics and elaborated on recently discovered secondary metabolites derived from bacteria and plant sources that are endowed with good antibacterial activity towards pathogenic bacteria in general, ESKAPE organisms in particular. Abyssomicin C, allicin, anthracimycin, berberine, biochanin A, caffeic acid, daptomycin, kibdelomycin, piperine, platensimycin, plazomicin, taxifolin, teixobactin, and thymol are the major metabolites whose antibacterial potential have been discussed in this article.

Leelamine Exerts Antineoplastic Effects in Association with Modulating Mitogen‑Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Cascade

Mitogen‑activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a prominent signaling cascade that modulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, stress response, drug resistance, immune response, and cell motility. Activation of MAPK by various small molecules/natural compounds has been demonstrated to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Herein, the effect of leelamine (LEE, a triterpene derived from bark of pine trees) on the activation of MAPK in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and breast cancer (BC) cells was investigated. LEE induced potent cytotoxicity of HCC (HepG2 and HCCLM3) and BC (MDA-MB-231 and MCF7) cells over normal counterparts (MCF10A). LEE significantly enhanced the phosphorylation of p38 and JNK MAPKs in a dose-dependent fashion and it did not affect the phosphorylation of ERK in HCC and BC cells. The apoptosis-driving effect of LEE was further demonstrated by cleavage of procaspase-3/Bid and suppression of prosurvival proteins (Bcl-xL and XIAP). Furthermore, LEE also reduced the SDF1-induced-migration and -invasion of HCC and BC cells. Taken together, the data demonstrated that LEE promotes apoptosis and induces an anti-motility effect by activating p38 and JNK MAPKs in HCC and BC cells.

Structure-property relationship in thioxotriaza-spiro derivative: Crystal structure and molecular docking analysis against SARS-CoV-2 main protease

Detailed structural and non-covalent interactions in thioxotriaza-spiroderivative (DZ2) are investigated by single crystal structure anslysis and computational approaches. Its results were compared with the previously reported spiroderivative (DZ1). The crystal structure analysis revealed various C–H…O, N–H…O, C–H…N and N–H…S hydrogen bonds involved in constructing several dimeric motifs to stabilize the crystal packing. The differences and similarities in the relative contribution of non-covalent interactions in DZ1 and DZ2 compounds are compared using the Hirshfeld surface analysis and 2D fingerprint plots. The binding energies of specific molecular pairs and homodimers have been obtained using molecule–molecule interaction energy calculation. The hierarchy and topology of pair-wise intermolecular interactions are visualized through energy frameworks. The nature and strength of intra and intermolecular interactions were characterized using non-covalent interaction index analysis and the quantum theory of atoms in molecule approach. Further, molecular docking of compounds (DZ1 and DZ2) with SARS-CoV-2 main protease for COVID-19 is performed. And the superposition of these ligands and inhibitor N3, which is docked into the binding pocket of 7BQY, is presented. The binding affinity of −6.7 kcal/mol is observed, attributed to hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions between the ligand and the amino acid residues of the receptor.

Identification of β-aminopyrrolidine containing peptides as β-amyloid aggregation inhibitors for Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is caused by a series of events initiated by the production and aggregation of the amyloid β-protein (Aβ). In the early stages of the disease, Aβ is released in a soluble form then progressively forms oligomeric, multimeric, and fibrillar aggregates, triggering neurodegeneration. Thus, development of inhibitors that initiate reverse Aβ aggregation is thought to be a logical approach in treating AD. In this context, we developed β-aminopyrrolidine containing 12 mer peptide 3 which is very potent in inhibiting the Aβ aggregation and also reducing Aβ(42)-induced cytotoxicity.

An expedient, efficient and solvent-free synthesis of T3P®-mediated amidation of benzhydrols with poorly reactive N-nucleophiles under MW irradiation

An expedient, efficient, economical, environmentally benign, and solvent free amidation protocol of benzhydrols with less reactive nitrogen nucleophiles assisted by propylphosphonic anhydride (T3P®) under microwave irradiation has been developed.

The multifaceted antineoplastic role of pyrimethamine against different human malignancies

Cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020 and is the second leading cause of death worldwide. The chemotherapeutic agents that are in clinical practice possess a broad range of severe adverse effects towards vital organs which emphasizes the importance of the discovery of new therapeutic agents or repurposing of existing drugs for the treatment of human cancers. Pyrimethamine is an antiparasitic drug used for the treatment of malaria and toxoplasmosis with a well-documented excellent safety profile. In the last five years, numerous efforts have been made to explore the anticancer potential of pyrimethamine in in vitro and in vivo preclinical models and to repurpose it as an anticancer agent. The studies have demonstrated that pyrimethamine inhibits oncogenic proteins such as STAT3, NF-κB, DX2, MAPK, DHFR, thymidine phosphorylase, telomerase, and many more in a different types of cancer models. Moreover, pyrimethamine has been reported to work in synergy with other anticancer agents, such as temozolomide, to induce apoptosis of tumor cells. Recently, the results of phase-1/2 clinical trials demonstrated that pyrimethamine administration reduces the expression of STAT3 signature genes in tumor tissues of chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with a good therapeutic response. In the present article, we have reviewed most of the published papers related to the antitumor effects of pyrimethamine in malignancies of breast, liver, lung, skin, ovary, prostate, pituitary, and leukemia in in vitro and in vivo settings. We have also discussed the pharmacokinetic profile and results of clinical trials obtained after pyrimethamine treatment. From these studies, we believe that pyrimethamine has the potential to be repurposed as an anticancer drug. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) (Tris DBA) Abrogates Tumor Progression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Multiple Myeloma Preclinical Models by Regulating the STAT3 Signaling Pathway

Simple Summary

STAT3 is a major oncogenic transcription factor that is constitutively activated in many types of human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and multiple myeloma (MM). Many STAT3 inhibitors have gained momentum in clinical trials towards the treatment of various cancers. In the present study, we have investigated the STAT3 inhibitory efficacy of Tris DBA, a palladium-based compound, in HCC and MM cancer cells and preclinical cancer models. Tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) (Tris DBA) abrogated the STAT3 signaling pathway in both models by elevating the expression of SHP2. Functionally, Tris DBA inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and regressed tumor metastasis. Although many studies propose Tris DBA as a modulator of MAPK, Akt, phospho-S6 kinase, and N-myristoyltransferase-1, we have comprehensively demonstrated for the first time that Tris DBA is an inhibitor of STAT3 signaling in preclinical cancer models. These results support the consideration of Tris DBA in clinical trials in translational relevance.

Abstract

STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that controls the expression of genes associated with oncogenesis and malignant progression. Persistent activation of STAT3 is observed in human malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and multiple myeloma (MM). Here, we have investigated the action of Tris(dibenzylideneacetone) dipalladium 0 (Tris DBA) on STAT3 signaling in HCC and MM cells. Tris DBA decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis, and inhibited IL-6 induced/constitutive activation of STAT3, JAK1, JAK2, and Src in HCC and MM cells. Tris DBA downmodulated the nuclear translocation of STAT3 and reduced its DNA binding ability. It upregulated the expression of SHP2 (protein and mRNA) to induce STAT3 dephosphorylation, and the inhibition of SHP2 reversed this effect. Tris DBA downregulated the expression of STAT3-driven genes, suppressed cell migration/invasion. Tris DBA significantly inhibited tumor growth in xenograft MM and orthotopic HCC preclinical mice models with a reduction in the expression of various prosurvival biomarkers in MM tumor tissues without displaying significant toxicity. Overall, Tris DBA functions as a good inhibitor of STAT3 signaling in preclinical HCC and MM models.

Crocetin imparts antiproliferative activity via inhibiting STAT3 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma

STAT3 is a key oncogenic transcription factor, often overactivated in several human cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). STAT3 modulates the expression of genes that are connected with cell proliferation, antiapoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and immune evasion in tumor cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of crocetin on the growth of HCC cells and dissected its underlying molecular mechanism in imparting a cytotoxic effect. Crocetin suppressed proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and counteracted the invasive capacity of HCC cells. Besides, crocetin downregulated the constitutive/inducible STAT3 activation (STAT3^Y705 ), nuclear accumulation of STAT3 along with suppression of its DNA binding activity in HCC cells with no effect on STAT5 activation. Crocetin suppressed the activity of upstream kinases such as Src, JAK1, and JAK2. Sodium pervanadate treatment terminated the crocetin-propelled STAT3 inhibition suggesting the involvement of tyrosine phosphatases. Crocetin increased the expression of SHP-1 and siRNA-mediated SHP-1 silencing resulted in the negation of crocetin-driven STAT3 inhibition. Further investigation revealed that crocetin treatment inhibited the expression of STAT3 regulated genes (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, survivin, VEGF, COX-2, and MMP-9). Taken together, this report presents crocetin as a novel abrogator of the STAT3 pathway in HCC cell lines.

Benzimidazole analogues as efficient arsenals in war against methicillin-resistance staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and its SAR studies

Small molecule based inhibitors development is a growing field in medicinal chemistry. In recent years, different heterocyclic derivatives have been designed to counter the infections caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria. Indeed, small molecule inhibitors can be employed as an efficient antibacterial agents with different mechanism of action. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming lethal to mankind due to easy transmission mode, rapid resistance development to existing antibiotics and affect difficult-to-treat skin and filmsy diseases. Benzimidazoles are a class of heterocyclic compounds which have capability to fight against MRSA. High biocompatibility of benzimidazoles, synergistic behaviour with antibiotics and their tunable physico-chemical properties attracted the researchers to develop new benzimidazole based antibacterial agents. The present review focus on recent developments of benzimidazole-hybrid molecules as anti MRSA agents and the results of in-vitro and in-vivo studies with possible mechanism of action and discussing structure-activity relationship (SAR) in different directions. Benzimdazoles act as DNA binding agents, enzyme inhibitors, anti-biofilm agents and showed synergistic effect with available antibiotics to achieve antibacterial activity against MRSA. This cumulative figures would help to design new benzimidazole-based MRSA growth inhibitors.

New Heparanase-Inhibiting Triazolo-Thiadiazoles Attenuate Primary Tumor Growth and Metastasis

Simple Summary

Heparanase is an endoglycosidase that plays a critical role in tumor progression and metastasis. The expression of heparanase in the tumor microenvironment is positively correlated with the aggressiveness of the tumor and is associated with poor prognosis. In this study, we have demonstrated that a new triazole–thiadiazole-bearing small molecule showed good heparanase inhibition along with attenuation of tumor growth and metastasis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing a marked decrease in primary tumor growth in mice treated with a small molecule that inhibits heparanase enzymatic activity. Given these encouraging results, studies are underway to better elucidate the mode of action and clinical significance of triazolo–thiadiazoles.

Abstract

Compelling evidence ties heparanase, an endoglycosidase that cleaves heparan sulfate side (HS) chains of proteoglycans, with all steps of tumor development, including tumor initiation, angiogenesis, growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Moreover, heparanase levels correlate with shorter postoperative survival of cancer patients, encouraging the development of heparanase inhibitors as anti-cancer drugs. Heparanase-inhibiting heparin/heparan sulfate-mimicking compounds and neutralizing antibodies are highly effective in animal models of cancer progression, yet none of the compounds reached the stage of approval for clinical use. The present study focused on newly synthesized triazolo–thiadiazoles, of which compound 4-iodo-2-(3-(p-tolyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-b][1,3,4]thiadiazol-6-yl)phenol (4-MMI) was identified as a potent inhibitor of heparanase enzymatic activity, cell invasion, experimental metastasis, and tumor growth in mouse models. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing a marked decrease in primary tumor growth in mice treated with small molecules that inhibit heparanase enzymatic activity. This result encourages the optimization of 4-MMI for preclinical and clinical studies primarily in cancer but also other indications (i.e., colitis, pancreatitis, diabetic nephropathy, tissue fibrosis) involving heparanase, including viral infection and COVID-19.

Paradoxical functions of long noncoding RNAs in modulating STAT3 signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the lethal and leading types of cancer threatening the globe with a high mortality rate. STAT3 is an oncogenic transcription factor that is aberrantly activated in several human malignancies including HCC. Many STAT3-driven genes control cell proliferation and survival, apoptotic resistance, cell cycle progression, metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance. STAT3 signaling is regulated by endogenous modulators such as protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP), suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS), protein inhibitor of activated STAT (PIAS), and various long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Interestingly, lncRNAs have been reported to exhibit oncogenic and tumor suppressor functions, and these effects are mediated through diverse molecular mechanisms including sponging of microRNAs (miRs), transcription activation/inhibition, and epigenetic modifications. In this article, we have discussed the possible role of STAT3 signaling in hepatocarcinogenesis and various mechanisms by which lncRNAs impart their oncogenic or tumor suppressive action by modulating the STAT3 pathway in HCC.

Synthesis, Cytotoxic and Heparanase Inhibition Studies of 5-oxo-1-arylpyrrolidine-3- carboxamides of Hydrazides and 4-amino-5-aryl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol

Design of chemically novel, biologically potent small heterocyclic molecules with anticancer activities, which targets the enzyme heparanase has gained prominent clinical interest. We have synthesized a novel class of carboxamide derivatives by coupling various substituted aromatic acid hydrazides and triazoleamine with pyrrolidine carboxylic acid by using coupling agents. The synthesized compounds are characterized by spectroscopic techniques such as FT-IR, HRMS and NMR. These compounds are investigated for cytotoxicity on different cancer cell lines and heparanase inhibitory activity. Most of them showed moderate heparanase inhibitory activity and good cytotoxicity.

Bacteria as a treasure house of secondary metabolites with anticancer potential

Cancer stands in the frontline among leading killers worldwide and the annual mortality rate is expected to reach 16.4 million by 2040. Humans suffer from about 200 different types of cancers and many of them have a small number of approved therapeutic agents. Moreover, several types of major cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages as a result of which the existing therapies have limited efficacy against them and contribute to a dismal prognosis. Therefore, it is essential to develop novel potent anticancer agents to counteract cancer-driven lethality. Natural sources such as bacteria, plants, fungi, and marine microorganisms have been serving as an inexhaustible source of anticancer agents. Notably, over 13,000 natural compounds endowed with different pharmacological properties have been isolated from different bacterial sources. In the present article, we have discussed about the importance of natural products, with special emphasis on bacterial metabolites for cancer therapy. Subsequently, we have comprehensively discussed the various sources, mechanisms of action, toxicity issues, and off-target effects of clinically used anticancer drugs (such as actinomycin D, bleomycin, carfilzomib, doxorubicin, ixabepilone, mitomycin C, pentostatin, rapalogs, and romidepsin) that have been derived from different bacteria. Furthermore, we have also discussed some of the major secondary metabolites (antimycins, chartreusin, elsamicins, geldanamycin, monensin, plicamycin, prodigiosin, rebeccamycin, salinomycin, and salinosporamide) that are currently in the clinical trials or which have demonstrated potent anticancer activity in preclinical models. Besides, we have elaborated on the application of metagenomics in drug discovery and briefly described about anticancer agents (bryostatin 1 and ET-743) identified through the metagenomics approach.

A key review on oxadiazole analogs as potential methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) activity: Structure-activity relationship studies

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming dangerous to human beings due to easy transmission mode and leading to the difficult-to-treat situation. The rapid resistance development of MRSA to many approved antibiotics is of major concern. There is a lot of scope to develop novel, efficient, specific, and nontoxic drug candidates to fight against MRSA isolates. The interesting molecular structure and adaptable feature of oxadiazole moiety which are bioisosteres of esters and amides, and these functional groups show improved resistance to esterases mediated hydrolytic cleavage, attracting researchers to develop required novel antibiotics based on oxadiazole core. This review summarizes the developments of oxadiazole-containing derivatives as potent antibacterial agents against multidrug-resistant MRSA strains and discussing the structure-activity relationship (SAR) in various directions. The current survey is the highlight of the present scenario of oxadiazole hybrids on MRSA studies, covering articles published from 2011 to 2020. This collective information may become a good platform to plan and develop new oxadiazole-based small molecule growth inhibitors of MRSA with minimal side effects.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Cytobacillus firmus Isolated from the Stem Bark of Terminalia arjuna and Their Antimicrobial Activity

This work reports an eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using endophytic bacteria, Cytobacillus firmus isolated from the stem bark of Terminalia arjuna. The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by visual observation as a change in color of the bacterial solution impregnated with silver. Further, the morphology of the AgNPs, average size, and presence of elemental silver were characterized by UV-Visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering spectroscopy. The roles of endophytic secondary metabolites in the metal reduction, stabilization, and capping of silver nanoparticles were studied by qualitative FTIR spectral peaks. The antimicrobial ability of AgNPs was evaluated against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria and pearl millet blast disease-causing fungi (Magnoporthe grisea). The biosynthesized AgNPs showed good antibacterial and antifungal activities. AgNPs effectively inhibited the bacterial growth in a dose-dependent manner and presented as good antifungal agents towards the growth of Magnoporthe grisea.