Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Ferulic Acid Template-Based Novel Multifunctional Ligands Targeting NLRP3 Inflammasome for the Management of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, which arises due to low levels of acetyl and butyrylcholines, an increase in oxidative stress, inflammation, metal dyshomeostasis, Aβ and tau aggregations. The currently available drugs for AD treatment can provide only symptomatic relief without interfering with pathological hallmarks of the disease. In our ongoing efforts to develop naturally inspired novel multifunctional molecules for AD, systematic SAR studies on EJMC-4e were caried out to improve its multifunctional properties. The rigorous medicinal efforts led to the development of 12o, which displayed a 15-fold enhancement in antioxidant properties and a 2-fold increase in the activity against AChE and BChE over EJMC-4e. Molecular docking and dynamics studies revealed the binding sites and stability of the complex of 12o with AChE and BChE. The PAMPA-BBB assay clearly demonstrated that 12o can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Interestingly, 12o also expresses promising metal chelation activity, while EJMC-4e was found to be devoid of this property. Further, 12o inhibited metal-induced or self Aβ1-42 aggregation. Observing the neuroprotection ability of 12o against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in the PC-12 cell line is noteworthy. Furthermore, 12o also inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation and attenuated mitochondrial-induced ROS and MMP damage caused by LPS and ATP in HMC-3 cells. In addition, 12o is able to effectively reduce mitochondrial and cellular oxidative stress in the AD Drosophila model. Finally, 12o could reverse memory impairment in the scopolamine-induced AD mice model, as evident through in vivo and ex vivo studies. These findings suggest that this compound may act as a promising candidate for further improvement in the management of AD.

From co-delivery to synergistic anti-inflammatory effect: Studies on chitosan-stabilized Janus emulsions having chloroquine phosphate and flavopiridol in Complete Freund's Adjuvant induced arthritis rat model

For the first time, the co-delivery of chloroquine phosphate and flavopiridol by intra-articular route was achieved to provide local joint targeting in Complete Freund's Adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model. The presence of paired-bean structure onto the dispersed oil droplets of o/w nanosized emulsions allows efficient entrapment of two drugs (85.86-96.22 %). The dual drug-loaded emulsions displayed a differential in vitro drug release behavior, near normal cell viability in MTT assay, better cell uptake (internalization) and better reducing effect of mean immunofluorescence intensity of inflammatory proteins such as NF-κB and iNOS at in vitro RAW264.7 macrophage cell line. The radiographical study, ELISA test, RT-PCR study and H & E staining also indicated a reduction in joint tissue swelling, IL-6 and TNF-α levels diminution, fold change diminution in the mRNA expressions for NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6 and PGE2 and maintenance of near normal histology at bone cartilage interface respectively. The results of metabolomic pathway analysis performed by LC-MS/MS method using the rat blood (plasma) collected from disease control and dual drug-loaded emulsions treatment groups revealed a new follow-up study to understand not only the disease progression but also the formulation therapeutic efficacy assessment.

Neurobehavioral Analysis to Assess Olfactory and Motor Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative condition, primarily affecting dopaminergic neurons. It is defined by motor impairments, such as bradykinesia, stiffness, resting tremor, and postural instability. The striatum, a structure essential for motor control, is impaired in function due to the significant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the development of Lewy bodies in the surviving nigral dopaminergic neurons. Olfactory impairment is one of the earliest indications of neurodegenerative disorders like PD that appear years before motor symptoms and cognitive decline development. Olfactory dysfunction is the most common nonmotor PD sign in at least 90% of cases, frequently occurring 5-10 years before motor disturbances. Surprisingly, even though olfactory impairment is intimately linked to PD and is thought to be a potential biomarker, little is known about the brain process underlying this failure. Exposure to environmental toxins has been linked to olfactory dysfunction, leading to nigral neurodegeneration and loss of motor functions. Behavioral neuroscience plays a significant role in identifying and characterizing these olfactory and motor symptoms. In preclinical research, novel treatment approaches are being evaluated in rodent models by behavioral phenotyping to ensure their efficacy. This chapter describes neurobehavioral analysis to assess olfactory and motor dysfunction in rodent models of Parkinson's disease.

Preclinical pharmacokinetic and in vitro metabolic stability study of lysosomotropic autophagy inhibitor, IITZ-01 in mice by using UPLC-MS/MS

The present study evaluates the pharmacokinetics and metabolic stability of a novel lysosomotropic autophagy inhibitor, IITZ-01 using an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS-MS). It is required as this lead molecule awaits pre-clinical studies for development because of significant therapeutic outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer and renal cancer. A bioanalytical method for the quantitative determination of IITZ-01 in the plasma of mice was developed using the UPLC-MS/MS technique. The UPLC-MS/MS method was validated according to US-FDA bioanalytical guidance and successfully applied to study the pharmacokinetics and metabolic stability. Separation of IITZ- 01 and ZSTK474 (IS) from endogenous components with high selectivity and sensitivity (0.5 ng/mL) was achieved using Waters Acquity BEH C-18 column (50 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm). A gradient mobile phase consisting of 0.1 % formic acid in water and 0.1 % formic acid in acetonitrile was applied at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min. Electrospray ionization was employed in positive ion mode for detection, while quantification utilized the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. This involved using [M+H]+fragment ions at m/z 483.19 → 235.09 for IITZ-01 and m/z 418 → 138 for the internal standard (IS). The method was validated over the calibration range of 0.5-800 ng/mL. The LLOQ of IITZ-01 was 0.5 ng/mL in mice plasma. The method demonstrated good in terms of intra- and inter-day precision and accuracy. The matrix effect was found to be negligible, and the stability data were within acceptable limits. The validated technique supports suitability, reliability, reproducibility, and sensitivity for the pre-clinical investigation of IITZ-01 pharmacokinetics in mice and metabolic stability in human liver microsomes.

Loganic acid protects against ulcerative colitis by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB mediated inflammation and activating the SIRT1/Nrf2 anti-oxidant responses in-vitro and in-vivo

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic, chronic disorder of the intestines characterized by excessive inflammation and oxidative stress. Loganic acid (LA) is an iridoid glycoside reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the beneficial effects of LA on UC are unexplored yet. Thus, this study aims to explore the potential protective effects of LA and its possible mechanisms. In-vitro models were employed using LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, and Caco-2 cells, whereas an in-vivo model of ulcerative colitis was employed using 2.5% DSS in BALB/c mice. Results indicated that LA significantly suppressed the intracellular ROS levels and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB in both RAW 264.7 and Caco-2 cells, contrarily LA activated the Nrf2 pathway in RAW 264.7 cells. In DSS-induced colitis mice, LA significantly alleviated the inflammation and colonic damage by decreasing the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ), oxidative stress markers (MDA, and NO), and also expression levels of various inflammatory proteins (TLR4 and NF-кB) which was evidenced by immunoblotting. On the contrary, the release of GSH, SOD, HO-1, and Nrf2 were profoundly increased upon LA treatment.Subsequently, molecular docking studies showed that LA interacts with active site regions of target proteins (TLR4, NF-κB, SIRT1, and Nrf2) through hydrogen bonding and salt bridge interaction. The current findings demonstrated that LA could exhibit a protective effect in DSS-induced ulcerative colitis through its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects via inactivating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and activating the SIRT1/Nrf2 pathways.

Ambient Particulate Matter (PM2.5) exposure contributes to neurodegeneration through the microbiome-gut-brain axis: therapeutic role of melatonin

Exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM_2.5) has been shown to disturb the gut microbiome homeostasis and cause initiation of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration via gut-brain bi-directional axis. Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic and mutagenic, are important organic constituents of PM_2.5 that could be involved in the microbiome-gut-brain axis-mediated neurodegeneration. Melatonin (ML) has been shown to modulate the microbiome and curb inflammation in the gut and brain. However, no studies have been reported for its effect on PM_2.5-induced neuroinflammation. In the current study, it was observed that treatment with ML at 100µM significantly inhibits microglial activation (HMC-3 cells) and colonic inflammation (CCD-841 cells) by the conditioned media from PM_2.5 exposed BEAS2B cells. Further, melatonin treatment at a dose of 50mg/kg to C57BL/6 mice exposed to PM_2.5 (at a dose of 60µg/animal) for 90 days significantly alleviated the neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration caused by PAHs in PM_2.5 by modulating olfactory-brain and microbiome-gut-brain axis.

AKR1B1 inhibition using NARI-29-an Epalrestat analogue-alleviates Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via modulating Calcium/CaMKII/MuRF-1 axis

The clinical use of doxorubicin (Dox) is narrowed due to its carbonyl reduction to doxorubicinol (Doxol) implicating resistance and cardiotoxicity. Hence, in the present study we have evaluated the cardioprotective effect of AKR1B1 (or aldose reductase, AR) inhibitor NARI-29 (epalrestat (EPS) analogue) and its effect in the Dox-modulated calcium/CaMKII/MuRF1 axis. Initially, the breast cancer patient survival associated with AKR1B1 expression was calculated using Kaplan Meier-plotter (KM-plotter). Further, breast cancer, cardiomyoblast (H9c2), and macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell lines were used to establish the in vitro combination effect of NARI-29 and Dox. To develop the cardiotoxicity model, mice were given Dox 2.5 mg/kg (i.p.), biweekly. The effect of AKR1B1 inhibition using NARI-29 on molecular and cardiac functional changes was measured using echocardiography, fluorescence-imaging, ELISA, immunoblotting, flowcytometry, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Fluorescence Detection (HPLC-FD) and cytokine-bead array methods. The bioinformatics data suggested that a high expression of AKR1B1 is associated with significantly low survival of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy; hence, it could be a target for chemo-sensitization and chemo-prevention. Further, in vitro studies showed that AKR1B1 inhibition with NARI-29 has increased the accumulation and sensitized Dox to breast cancer cell lines. However, treatment with NARI-29 has alleviated the Dox-induced toxicity to cardiomyocytes and decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines from RAW 264.7 cells. In vivo studies revealed that the NARI-29 (25 and 50 mg/kg) has prevented the functional, histological, biochemical, and molecular alterations induced by Dox treatment. Moreover, we have shown that NARI-29 has prevented the carbonyl reduction of Dox to Doxol in the mouse heart, which reduced the calcium overload, prevented phosphorylation of CaMKII, and reduced the expression of MuRF1 to protect from cardiac injury and apoptosis. Hence in conclusion, AKR1B1 inhibitor NARI-29 could be used as an adjuvant therapeutic agent with Dox to prevent cardiotoxicity and synergize anti-breast cancer activity.

Pivotal role of AKR1B1 in pathogenesis of colitis associated colorectal carcinogenesis

Identifying the target linking inflammation and oxidative stress to aggravate the disease progression will help to prevent colitis associated carcinogenesis. Since AKR1B1 overexpression is observed in inflammatory diseases and various cancers, we have investigated the role of AKR1B1 in colitis-associated colon carcinogenesis with the aid of epalrestat and its potent analogue NARI-29 (investigational molecule) as pharmacological probes. A TNF-α inducible NF-κB reporter cell line (GloResponse™ NF-κB-RE-luc2P HEK293) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) and 1,2 dimethyl hydrazine (DMH))-induced mouse model was used to investigate our hypothesis in vitro and in vivo. Clinically, an increased expression of AKR1B1 was observed in patients with ulcerative colitis. Our in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that the AKR1B1 modulated inflammation and ROS generation for the progression of colitis to colon cancer. AKR1B1 overexpression was observed in DSS + DMH-treated mice colons. Moreover, we could observe histopathological changes like immune cell infiltration, aberrant crypt foci, and tumour formation in DC groups. Mechanistically, we have witnessed modulation of the IKK/IκB/NF-κB and Akt/FOXO-3a/DR axis, increased inflammatory cytokines, increased expression of proliferative markers, Ki-67 and PCNA, and accumulation of β-catenin in the colon epithelium. However, pharmacological inhibition of AKR1B1 using NARI-29 or EPS has reversed the clinical, histopathological, and molecular alterations induced by DSS + DMH, confirming the obvious role of AKR1B1 in the promotion of colitis-associated carcinogenesis. In conclusion, our findings suggest that AKR1B1 targeted therapy could be a promising strategy for preventing CA-CRC and NARI-29 could be developed as a potent AKR1B1 inhibitor.

Aldose reductase and cancer metabolism: The master regulator in the limelight

It is strongly established that metabolic reprogramming mediates the initiation, progression, and metastasis of a variety of cancers. However, there is no common biomarker identified to link the dysregulated metabolism and cancer progression. Recent studies strongly advise the involvement of aldose reductase (AR) in cancer metabolism. AR-mediated glucose metabolism creates a Warburg-like effect and an acidic tumour microenvironment in cancer cells. Moreover, AR overexpression is associated with the impairment of mitochondria and the accumulation of free fatty acids in cancer cells. Further, AR-mediated reduction of lipid aldehydes and chemotherapeutics are involved in the activation of factors promoting proliferation and chemo-resistance. In this review, we have delineated the possible mechanisms by which AR modulates cellular metabolism for cancer proliferation and survival. An in-depth understanding of cancer metabolism and the role of AR might lead to the use of AR inhibitors as metabolic modulating agents for the therapy of cancer.

Mesua assamica (King&Prain) kosterm. Bark ethanolic extract attenuates chronic restraint stress aggravated DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice via inhibition of NF-κB/STAT3 and activation of HO-1/Nrf2/SIRT1 signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mesua Assamica (King & prain) Kosterm. (MA) is an evergreen endemic medicinal tree available in Assam in India and other parts of south Asia. The bark of the plant is traditionally used for ant-malarial activity and treating fevers. It was reported to have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer and anti-malarial properties, but no research findings have been reported about its protective activity on intestinal inflammatory disorders like ulcerative colitis (UC) yet.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the current study is to evaluate the anti-ulcerative property of ethanolic extract of MA (MAE) in-vitro on GloResponse™ NF-кB-RE-luc2P HEK 293 cells for its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and in-vivo chronic restraint stress aggravated dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical constituents of MAE were identified by LC-MS/MS. The in-vitro effects of MAE on GloResponse™ NF-кB-RE-luc2P HEK 293 cells stimulated with TNF-α 30 ng/ml were investigated for its potential therapeutic effects. Parameters such as body weights, behavioural, colonoscopy, colon lengths and spleen weights were measured and recorded in chronic restraint stress aggravated DSS-induced UC model in C57BL/6 mice. Histological, cytokines and immunoblotting analysis in the colon tissues were determined to prove its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities.

RESULTS

MAE poses significant anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in-vitro in GloResponse™ NF-кB-RE-luc2P HEK 293 cells evidenced by DCFDA and immunoflourescence assay. MAE treatment at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg for 14 consecutive days has reduced Disease activity Index (DAI), splenomegaly and improved the shortened colon length and sucrose preference in mice. MAE treatment has increased the levels of anti-oxidants like GSH and reduced the levels of MDA, MPO and nitrite levels in colon tissues. Moreover, MAE has ameliorated neutrophil accumulation, mucosal and submucosal inflammation and crypt density evidenced by histopathology. Furthermore, MAE treatment significantly reduced the increased pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α. we found from immunoblotting that there is a concomitant decrease in protein expression of NF-κB, STAT3 signalling cascades and phosphorylation of IKBα with an increase in Nrf2, SOD2, HO-1 and SIRT1 in colon tissues. In addition, we have performed molecular docking studies confirming that phytochemicals present in the MAE have a stronger binding ability and druggability to the NF-κB, Nrf2 and SIRT1 proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

MAE exhibited significant anti-colitis activity on chronic restraint stress aggravated DSS-induced ulcerative colitis via regulating NF-κB/STAT3 and HO-1/Nrf2/SIRT1 signaling pathways.

Janus Kinase-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription Inhibitors for the Treatment and Management of Cancer

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second-highest cause of mortality worldwide, killing nearly 9.6 million people annually. Despite the advances in diagnosis and treatment during the last couple of decades, it remains a serious concern due to the limitations of currently available cancer management strategies. Therefore, alternative strategies are highly required to overcome these glitches. In addition, many etiological factors such as environmental and genetic factors initiate the activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of the transcription (STAT) pathway. This aberrant activation of the JAK-STAT pathway has been reported in various disease states, including inflammatory conditions, hematologic malignancies, and cancer. For instance, many patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms carry the acquired gain-of-function JAK2 V617F somatic mutation. This knowledge has dramatically improved our understanding of pathogenesis and has facilitated the development of therapeutics capable of suppressing the constitutive activation of the JAK-STAT pathway. Our aim is not to be expansive but to highlight emerging ideas towards preventive therapy in a modern view of JAK-STAT inhibitors. A series of agents with different specificities against different members of the JAK family of proteins is currently undergoing evaluation in clinical trials. Here we give a summary of how JAK-STAT inhibitors function and a detailed review of current clinical drugs for managing cancer as a new therapeutic approach.

Perillyl alcohol attenuates chronic restraint stress aggravated dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis by modulating TLR4/NF-κB and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is the most prevalent chronic inflammatory immune bowel disease. The modernization of lifestyle accompanied by the stress to cope with the competition has resulted in a new range of complications where stress became a critical contributing factor for many diseases, including UC. Hence there is an urgent need to develop a dual role in curtailing both systemic and neuroinflammation. Perillyl alcohol (POH) is a natural essential oil found in lavender, peppermint, cherries etc and has been widely studied for its strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-stress properties.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

POH regulates the various inflammatory signaling cascades involved in chronic inflammation by inhibiting farnesyltransferase  enzyme. Several studies reported that POH could inhibit the phosphorylation of  NF-κB, STAT3 and promote the endogenous antioxidant enzymes like Nrf2 via farnesyltransferase enzyme inhibition.  Also, the effects of POH against UC is not known yet. Thus, this study aims to explore the anti-ulcerative properties of POH on stress aggravated ulcerative colitis in C57BL/6 mice.

METHODS

Ulcerative colitis was induced by duel exposure of chronic restraint stress (day 1 to day 28) and 2.5% dextran sulphate sodium (day8 to day14) in mice. POH treatment 100 and 200 mg/kg was administred from day14 ti day28 following oral route of administration. Disease activity index, colonoscopy, western blot analysis and histological analysis, neurotransmitter analysis and Gene expression studies were perofomerd to asses the anti-colitis effects of POH.

RESULTS

The treatment reversed the oxidative stress and inflammatory response by inhibiting TLR4/NF-kB pathway, and IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway in both isolated mice colons and brains. The inhibition of these pathways resulted in a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α. The treatment improved the physiological and histological changes with decreased ulcerations as examined by colonic endoscopy and Haematoxylin and Eosin staining. The treatment also improved the behavior response as it increased mobility time which was reduced by chronic restrained stress. This was due to increased satiety neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin and decreased cortisol in mice brains.

CONCLUSION

These results infer that POH has significant anti-colitis activity on chronic restraint stress aggravated DSS-induced UC in mice.

Perillyl alcohol attenuates rheumatoid arthritis via regulating TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways: A comprehensive study onin-vitro and in-vivo experimental models

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and idiopathic autoimmune disorder. Perillyl alcohol (POH) is a monoterpene which can be extracted from widely available essential oils and is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

Recent studies have been proven that inhibitors of farnesyltransferase enzyme showed significant anti-arthritic activity. POH is one such natural molecule having anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties by inhibiting farnesyltransferase enzyme which further down regulates NF-κB and Nrf2 via Ras/Raf/MAPK pathway. Also, the effect of POH against rheumatoid arthritis is not known yet. Hence, the present research was intended to assess the anti-arthritic potential of POH in-vitro and in-vivo.

METHODS

The in-vitro effects of POH on RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with LPS 1 µg/ml were investigated to its potential therapeutic effects. CFA 100 µl was intradermally administered to rats for the induction of arthritis. POH 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg administered topically from day 1 to day 28. Paw volumes measured, radiography analysis, anti-oxidant status, Gene expression studies, western blot analysis and histological analysis were performed to check the effects of POH.

RESULTS

Our in-vitro findings suggested that POH inhibits inflammation by suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS), NF-кB and Nrf2 signaling axis. Besides this, POH also rescinded the nitrate levels, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels like IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α also PGE2 and COX-2 levels induced by LPS in murine macrophages. Additionally, our in-vivo results revealed that POH conscientiously alleviated CFA induced inflammation by restoring arthritis index, body weight, nitrosative, lipid peroxidation assays. Macroscopically through measuring paw volumes and X-ray, it was evidenced that POH has decreased inflammation and bone erosion. Not only in-vitro but also in-vivo, POH has abridged cytokine levels IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Histopathological evaluation presented POH treatment alleviated joint inflammation, pannus formation, and bone erosion significantly. Moreover, POH suppressed the protein expression of NF-кB, COX-2, iNOS and improved Nrf2, and SOD2 levels in paw tissues estimated by western blotting.

CONCLUSION

POH was effective in ameliorating LPS stimulation mediated oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines in RAW 264.7 cells in-vitro and FCA induced arthritis in rats in-vivo through its anti-inflammatory effects via regulating TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathways..

Phytochemistry and polypharmacology of cleome species: A comprehensive Ethnopharmacological review of the medicinal plants

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cleome species in particular (C. gynandra Linn, C. viscosa Linn, C. rutidosperma DC, C. felina Linn.), commonly known as spider flowers, belong to the genus of flowering plants in Cleomaceae family. Found primarily in the African countries (Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria), Asian countries (India and Afghanistan), European countries (Italy), and also in other countries like Brazil and Austria. These plants are commonly cultivated as a vegetable crop for their nutritional benefits, and the leaves are widely consumed for their health-promoting effects. The different parts of the plants, such as leaves, seeds, flowers, and roots, are used to treat acute and chronic inflammatory disorders, hepatotoxicity, malaria, fungal diseases, and cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Detailed investigations in underlining the molecular mechanisms and their wide variety of effects in treating various diseases remain ambiguous. The review focuses on an in-depth discussion of studies targeting phytochemistry and polypharmacology. Thus, the review aims to recapitulate the therapeutic potential of the components of Cleome involved in the treatment of a wide variety of ailments from ancient times were collected and presented along with strategies aiming for future studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The information provided is collected from several scientific databases (PubMed, Elsevier, ScienceDirect) and traditional medicine books, and other professional websites.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Investigations and current evidence revealed that the different chemical constituents present in cleome species possess various health-promoting effects along with the aerial parts showing promising traditional uses in traditional healing and culinary. An explorative survey in the current review highlights the traditional healing effects along with a broad scope of studies that can be performed in the future.

Perillyl Alcohol Attenuates NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Rescues Dopaminergic Neurons in Experimental In Vitro and In Vivo Models of Parkinson's Disease

NLRP3 activation plays a key role in the initiation and progression of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. However, understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the bidirectional signaling required to activate the NLRP3 inflammasomes is the key to treating several diseases. Hence, the present study aimed to investigate the role of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in activating NLRP3 inflammasome-driven neurodegeneration and elucidated the neuroprotective role of perillyl alcohol (PA) in in vitro and in vivo models of Parkinson's disease (PD). Initial priming of microglial cells with LPS following treatment with H₂O₂ induced NF-κB translocation to the nucleus with a robust generation of free radicals that act as signal 2 in augmenting NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and its downstream targets. PA treatment suppresses the nuclear translocation of NF-κB, enhances PARKIN translocation into the mitochondria, and maintains cellular redox homeostasis in both mouse and human microglial cells that limit NLRP3 inflammasome activation along with processing of active caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18. To further correlate the in vitro study with the in vivo MPTP model, treatment with PA also inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and downregulated the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. PA administration upregulated various antioxidant enzymes' levels and restored the level of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the striatum of the mouse brain, subsequently improving the behavioral activities. Therefore, we conclude that NLRP3 inflammasome activation required a signal from damaged mitochondria for its activation. Further pharmacological scavenging of free radicals restricts microglia activation and simultaneously supports neuronal survival via targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in PD.

Perillyl alcohol inhibits keratinocyte proliferation and attenuates imiquimod-induced psoriasis like skin-inflammation by modulating NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory and proliferative skin disease characterized by pathological skin lesions which significantly impact the quality of life. Recent studies have been proven that inhibitors of farnesyltransferase enzyme showed significant anti-psoriatic activity. Perillyl alcohol (POH) is one such natural molecule having anti proliferative, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties by inhibiting farnesyltransferase enzyme which further down regulates NF-κB and STAT3 via Ras/Raf/MAPK pathway. Hence, in the current study we aimed to find the effect of POH on human keratinocytes (HaCat) cells in in-vitro and IMQ induced psoriatic like skin inflammation model in mice. POH significantly decreased the intracellular ROS levels and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB and STAT3 in in-vitro. It was found that POH (200 mg/kg, topical application) has reduced the epidermal hyperplasia, psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scoring; splenomegaly in imiquimod (IMQ) induced psoriatic mice. Further, POH treatment has decreased the pro-inflammatory serum cytokine levels such as IL-6, IL-12/23, TNF-α and IL-1β and also reduced the expression levels of various inflammatory proteins, COX-2, iNOS, IL-17A, IL-22, NF-кB and STAT3 evidenced by Immunoblotting studies from skin samples. The levels of endogenous antioxidants like glutathione GSH, SOD, Nrf2 were restored to normal levels upon POH treatment. POH downregulated the proteins levels of TLR7, TLR8, CyclinD1 and mRNA expression of Bcl-2 in the skin samples when compared to the IMQ group. POH has ameliorated the hyper-keratosis and acanthosis which was evidenced by histopathology. Collectively, our results suggest that POH has a promising therapeutic application for ameliorating psoriasis-like skin inflammation.

Lipopolysaccharide exacerbates chronic restraint stress-induced neurobehavioral deficits: Mechanisms by redox imbalance, ASK1-related apoptosis, autophagic dysregulation

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the foremost leading psychiatric illness prevailing around the globe. It usually exists along with anxiety and other clinical conditions (cardiovascular, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and infectious diseases). Chronic restraint stress (RS) and LPS-induce neurobehavioral alterations in rodent models however their interaction studies in association with the pathogenesis of MDD are still unclear. Therefore, the current study was aimed to investigate the LPS influence on chronic RS mediated redox imbalance, apoptosis, and autophagic dysregulation in the hippocampus (HIP) and frontal cortex (FC) of mice brain. Male Balb/c mice were exposed to 28 days consecutive stress (6h/day) with a single-dose LPS challenge (0.83 mg/kg, i.p.) on the last day (Day 28). In addition, we also carried out separate study to understand physiological relevance, where we used the DSS (dextran sulfate sodium), a water soluble polysaccharide (negatively charged) and studied its influence on RS induced neurobehavioral and certain neurochemical anomalies. The obtained results in RS and RS + LPS animal groups showed significant immune dysfunction, depleted monoamines, lowered ATP & NAD level, elevated serum CORT level, serum and brain tissues IL-1β/TNF-α/IL-6, SOD activity but reduced CAT activity. Furthermore, the redox perturbation was found where significantly upregulated P-NFκB p65, Keap-1, Prx-SO3 and downregulated Nrf2, Srx1, Prx2 protein expression was seen in RS + LPS mice. The apoptosis signaling (P-ASK1, P-p38 MAPK, P-SAPK/JNK, cleaved PARP, cleaved Caspase-3, Cyto-C), autophagic impairment (p62, LC3II/I) were noticed in HIP and FC of RS and RS + LPS grouped animals. Our new findings provide a complex interplay of chemical (LPS) and physical (RS) stressors where both single dose LPS challenge and 3% DSS in drinking water (for 7 days) exaggerated chronic RS-induced inflammation, lowered redox status, increased apoptosis and dysregulated autophagy leading drastic neurobehavioral alterations in the mice.

Zanthoxylum alatum Roxb. seed extract ameliorates stress aggravated DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice: Plausible role on NF-κB signaling axis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum alatum (ZA) Roxb (family: Rutaceae) plant has been traditionally used for multiple indications by local healers among different communities of South Asian countries mainly in India and Bangladesh. The extracts of ZA have reported strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities, but no scientific report is available on its efficacy in intestinal inflammatory disorders like ulcerative colitis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The overall objective of our study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potency of hydro-ethanolic extract of Zanthoxylum alatum seed (ZAHA) using both in-vitro NF-κB-luciferase translocation assay and in-vivo stress aggravated dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The in-vitro anti-inflammatory effect of ZAHA extract was evaluated by luciferase assay in HEK293 cells. Parameters such as body weights, behavioural, colonoscopy, colon lengths and spleen weights were measured and recorded in stress aggravated DSS-induced colitis model in C57BL/6 mice. Biochemical, histological and immunoblot analysis in the colon tissues were determined to prove its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. Characterization of the extract was done by LC-MS/MS study.

RESULTS

Initial in vitro NF-κB-luciferase translocation assay showed that the hydroalcoholic extract of ZA (ZAHA) showed potent inhibitory activity for NF-κB translocation by TNF-α stimulation and hence this particular extract was further evaluated in stress aggravated DSS-induced ulcerative colitis model in C57BL/6 mice. Treatment of ZAHA for two weeks at a dose of 200 mg/kg significantly ameliorated the stress aggravated DSS-induced colitis in mice. Histological alterations, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α in colon tissue and serum samples were significantly decreased in ZAHA treatment groups compared to the stress aggravated DSS induced colitis animals. Moreover, the protein expressions of p-NF-κB, p-IκBα, p-STAT3, COX-2, and TNF-α were significantly reduced in colon tissues of ZAHA treated groups and also increased anti-oxidant markers like SOD-1, Nrf2 significantly when compared with disease control group. Characterization of the extract further by LC-MS/MS revealed the presence of several active compounds which could be responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus from the above findings it can be concluded that ZAHA ameliorates stress aggravated DSS-induced ulcerative colitis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity.

A novel bioavailable curcumin-galactomannan complex modulates the genes responsible for the development of chronic diseases in mice: A RNA sequence analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic diseases or non-communicable diseases are a major burden worldwide due to the lack of highly efficacious treatment modalities and the serious side effects associated with the available therapies.

PURPOSE/STUDY DESIGN

A novel self-emulsifying formulation of curcumin with fenugreek galactomannan hydrogel scaffold as a water-dispersible non-covalent curcumin-galactomannan molecular complex (curcumagalactomannosides, CGM) has shown better bioavailability than curcumin and can be used for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. However, the exact potential of this formulation has not been studied, which would pave the way for its use for the prevention and treatment of multiple chronic diseases.

METHODS

The whole transcriptome analysis (RNAseq) was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the liver tissues of mice treated with LPS to investigate the potential of CGM on the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Expression analysis using DESeq2 package, GO, and pathway analysis of the differentially expressed transcripts was performed using UniProtKB and KEGG-KAAS server.

RESULTS

The results showed that 559 genes differentially expressed between the liver tissue of control mice and CGM treated mice (100 mg/kg b.wt. for 14 days), with adjusted p-value below 0.05, of which 318 genes were significantly upregulated and 241 were downregulated. Further analysis showed that 33 genes which were upregulated (log2FC > 8) in the disease conditions were significantly downregulated, and 32 genes which were downregulated (log2FC < -8) in the disease conditions were significantly upregulated after the treatment with CGM.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our study showed CGM has high potential in the prevention and treatment of multiple chronic diseases.

Effects of intranasal azithromycin on features of cigarette smoke-induced lung inflammation

Airflow limitation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the result of exaggerated airway fibrosis and obliteration of the small airways due to persistent inflammation, and an impaired anti-oxidant response. EMT has been implicated as an active signalling process in cigarette smoke (CS)-induced lung pathology, and macrolide Azithromycin (AZT) use has gained interest in treating COPD. Here, we tested effectiveness of intra-nasal AZT alone and in combination with dexamethasone (DEX) on CS-induced acute lung inflammation. Human alveolar epithelial cells (A549) were treated with CS extract (CSE) for 48 h, and male Balb/c mice were exposed to CS (3 cigarettes-3 times/day) for 4 days. The effects of AZT alone (0.25 and 1.25 μM, in vitro; 0.5 and 5 mg/kg, in vivo) or in combination with DEX (1 μM, in vitro; 1 mg/kg, in vivo) on CS-induced cellular cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and lung function were assessed. AZT alone and in combination with DEX significantly inhibited the CS (E)-induced expression of mesenchymal protein markers and the regulatory protein β-catenin. Furthermore, AZT by itself or in combination with DEX significantly suppressed CS-induced expression of the proinflammatory cytokine TNFα and prevented p-NFkB. Mechanistically, AZT restored the CS-induced reduction in anti-oxidant transcription factor NRF2 and upregulated HDAC2 levels, thereby repressing inflammatory gene expression. Beneficial effects of AZT functionally translated in improved lung mechanics in vivo. Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to fully establish and validate the therapeutic efficacy of AZT as a mono- or combination therapy for the treatment of COPD.

Quercetin and piperine enriched nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to improve apoptosis in oral squamous cellular carcinoma (FaDu cells) with improved biodistribution profile

Oral squamous cellular carcinoma (OSCC) is considered a life-threatening disease with detection in late stages, which forces us to opt for dangerous treatment with a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Herbal components such as piperine and quercetin are derived from edible sources, proving their anticancer potential against oral cancer cells in vitro. Encapsulation into lipid matrix-mediated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) can make both drugs bio-accessible. NLCs were synthesised using the high shear homogenisation method and characterised for their physicochemical properties, followed by in vitro cellular evaluation in FaDu oral cancer cells. NLCs showed negatively charged particles smaller than 180 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of <0.3. Both drugs were found to encapsulate sufficiently, with >85% entrapment efficiency and an improved drug release profile compared to their pristine counterparts. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms showed conversion into an amorphous matrix in lyophilized NLCs, which was supported by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The cytotoxicity assay showed the IC₅₀ concentration for dual drug-loaded NLCs, which was more effective than the pure drug solution. NLCs were found to be internalised in cells in a short time with an almost 95% co-localization rate. Dual drug-loaded NLCs showed maximum depolarisation of the mitochondrial membrane along with more apoptotic changes. Improved apoptosis was confirmed in NLCs using flow cytometry. The in vivo biodistribution of Coumarin-6 labelled NLCs in rats confirmed their efficient distribution in various parts of the oral cavity through oral administration. Optimised dual drug-loaded NLCs provide a better option for delivering both drugs through a single lipid matrix against oral cancer.

Polyphenolic-Rich Compounds From Dillenia pentagyna (Roxb.) Attenuates the Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: A High-Frequency Ultrasonography Assisted Approach

Cardiovascular complications are the foremost concern in patients undergoing anticancer therapy. There is an unmet need to address the problems arising from the drug-induced toxicity for the long-term benefit of the patients undergoing chemotherapy. Alternative medicines are gaining their prosperity in addressing the various drug-induced organ toxicity. Dillenia pentagyna Roxb (DP) is an ethnomedicinal plant rich in flavonoids and phenolic contents. In India & Nepal, DP is a common ingredient of traditional medicines used to treat multiple ailments like inflammation, cancer, and diabetes. However, its protective role against doxorubicin (Dox) induced cardiotoxicity remains unexplored. Herein, we investigated the potential effects of various extracts/fractions obtained from the DP’s bark against Dox-induced cardiotoxicity, both in-vitro and in-vivo. The anti-oxidant content of the extracts/fractions was evaluated by using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP chemical assays. The results indicated that the hydroalcoholic (HA) extract of DP has intense anti-oxidant potential. Further fractionation of DP revealed that the phenolic-rich fraction (F1) has a high anti-oxidant potential. The protective effect of extract/fraction was also investigated in the H9c2 cell line following the Dox-induced cardiotoxicity model. We observed that the pre-treatment of extract/fraction in cardiomyocytes had exhibited increased cell viability. Fluorescence-based chemical assays indicated a decreased ROS levels in the treated groups in comparison to the Dox control group. The effect of DP was evaluated further in balb/c mice by the Dox-induced cardiotoxicity model. Non-invasive techniques like high-frequency ultrasonography and electrocardiogram revealed that the mice pre-treated with DP had improved cardiac functionality (left ventricular ejection fraction and stroke volume) and normalized the electrocardiograms compared to the Dox control group. Further, biochemical analysis with the cardiac tissues revealed that the cytoprotective proteins like HO-1, SOD-2, and Nrf-2 were elevated in the DP treated groups compared to the Dox control group. Overall, our results suggested that the bioactive extract/fractions of DP helped alleviate the Dox-induced cardiotoxicity. LC-QTOF-ESI-MS analysis of DP and F1 indicated that polyphenolic anti-oxidant compounds like gallic acid, syringic acid, and sinapic acid could be responsible for the potent -cardioprotective effect. Future understanding of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic parameters can help translate from the bench to the bedside.

Geometry encoded functional programming of tumor homing peptides for targeted drug delivery

Poly-peptide molecules have shown promising applications in drug delivery and tumor targeting. A series of tumor homing peptides were designed by exhaustively sampling low energy geometrical basins of amino acids at specific sites of a peptide molecule to induce a conformational lock. This peptide library was pruned to a limited set of eight molecules, employing electrostatic interactions, docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. These designed and optimized peptides were synthesized and tested on various cell lines, including breast cancer (MDA-MB-231), cervical cancer (HeLa), osteosarcoma (U2-OS), and non-cancerous mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A) using confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Peptides show differential uptake in cancerous MDA-MB-231, HeLa, U2-OS, and non-cancerous MCF-10A cells. Confocal imaging verified their ability to penetrate even in 3D tumorospheres of MDA-MB-231 cells. Further, experiments of mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization and Caspase-3 activation confirmed that their cytotoxic effects are by apoptosis. Homing ability of the designed peptides in in vivo system and fluorescence imaging with clinical samples of human origin have further confirmed that the in vitro studies are qualitatively identical and quantitatively comparable in their ability to selectively recognize tumor cells. Overall, we present a roadmap for the functional programming of peptide-based homing and penetrating molecules that can perform selective tumor targeting.

Toll-like receptor 4: An attractive therapeutic target for acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a progressive renal complication which significantly affects the patient's life with huge economic burden. Untreated acute kidney injury eventually progresses to a chronic form and end-stage renal disease. Although significant breakthroughs have been made in recent years, there are still no effective pharmacological therapies for the treatment of acute kidney injury. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is a well-characterized pattern recognition receptor, and increasing evidence has shown that TLR4 mediated inflammatory response plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of acute kidney injury. The expression of TLR4 has been seen in resident renal cells, including podocytes, mesangial cells, tubular epithelial cells and endothelial cells. Activation of TLR4 signaling regulates the transcription of numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, resulting in renal inflammation. Therefore, targeting TLR4 and its downstream effectors could serve as an effective therapeutic intervention to prevent renal inflammation and subsequent kidney damage. For the first time, this review summarizes the literature on acute kidney injury from the perspective of TLR4 from year 2010 to 2020. In the current review, the role of TLR4 signaling pathway in AKI with preclinical evidence is discussed. Furthermore, we have highlighted several compounds of natural and synthetic origin, which have the potential to avert the renal TLR4 signaling in preclinical AKI models and have shown protection against AKI. This scientific review provides new ideas for targeting TLR4 in the treatment of AKI and provides strategies for the drug development against AKI.

Andrographolide suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome activation in microglia through induction of parkin-mediated mitophagy in in-vitro and in-vivo models of Parkinson disease

Cellular communication linking microglia activation and dopaminergic neuronal loss play an imperative role in the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD); however, underlying molecular mechanisms are not precise and require further elucidation. NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation is extensively studied in context to microglial activation and progressive dopaminergic neuronal loss in PD. Several pathophysiological factors such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction impaired mitophagy plays a crucial role in activating NLRP3 inflammasome complex. Hence, regulation of microglial activation through mitophagy could be a valuable strategy in controlling microglia mediated neurodegeneration. In this study we have developed a model of inflammasome activation by combining LPS with a mitochondrial complex-I inhibitor MPP⁺. The idea of using MPP⁺ after priming mouse microglia with LPS was to disrupt mitochondria and release reactive oxygen species, which act as Signal 2 in augmenting NLRP3 assembly, thereby releasing potent inflammatory mediators such as active interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and IL-18. LPS-MPP⁺ combination was seen to impaired the mitophagy by inhibiting the initial step of autophagosome formation as evidenced by protein expression and confocal imaging data. Treatment with Andrographolide promoted the parkin-dependent autophagic flux formation in microglia; resulting in the removal of defective mitochondria which in turn inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Additionally, the neuroprotective role of Andrographolide in inhibiting NLRP3 activation together with salvage ATP level via promoting parkin-dependent mitophagy was seen in the substantial nigra par compacta (SNpc) region of mice brain. Furthermore, Andrographolide rescued the dopaminergic neuron loss and improved the behavioural parameters in animal model. Collectively, our results reveal the role of mitophagy in the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome by removing defective mitochondria. In addition, andrographolide was seen to abate NLRP3 inflammasome activation in microglia and rescue dopaminergic neuron loss.

An Overview of the Heterogeneity of Major Depressive Disorder: Current Knowledge and Future Prospective

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is estimated to impose maximum debilitating effects on the society by 2030, with its critical effects on health, functioning, quality of life and concomitant high levels of morbidity and mortality. Yet, the disease is inadequately understood, diagnosed and treated. Moreover, with the recent drastic rise in the pace of life, stress has materialized as one of the most potent environmental factors for depression. In this scenario, it is important to understand the modern pathogenetic hypotheses and mechanisms, and possibly try to shift from the traditional approaches in depression therapy. These include the elaboration of pathophysiological changes in heterogeneous systems such as genetic, epigenetic, serotonergic, noradrenergic, gamma-aminobutyric acid, glutamatergic and endocannabinoid systems, neurotrophic factors, HPA axis, immune system as well as cellular stress mechanisms. These components interact with each other in a complex matrix and further elucidation of their mechanism and cascade pathways are needed. This might aid in the identification of MDD subtypes as well as the development of sophisticated biomarkers. Further, characterization might also aid in developing multitargeted therapies that hold much promise as compared to the conventional monoamine based treatment. New candidate pharmacons, refined psychotherapeutic modalities, advanced neuro-surgical and imaging techniques as well as the implementation of pharmacokinetic, pharmacogenetic prescribing guidelines constitute the emerging expanses of MDD treatment.

Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome as a promising approach for treatment of diabetic nephropathy: Preclinical evidences with therapeutic approaches

Diabetes mellitus is an increasingly prevalent disease around the globe. The epidemic of diabetes mellitus and its complications pretenses the foremost health threat globally. Diabetic nephropathy is the notable complication in diabetes, leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and premature death. Abundant experimental evidence indicates that oxidative stress and inflammation are the important mediators in diabetic kidney diseases and interlinked with various signal transduction molecular mechanisms. Inflammasomes are the critical components of innate immunity and are recognized as a critical mediator of inflammation and autoimmune disorders. NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is the well-characterized protein and it exhibits the sterile inflammation through the regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 production in tissues. In recent years, the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathophysiology of diabetic kidney diseases in both clinical and experimental studies has generated great interest. In the current review, we focused on and discussed the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in diabetic nephropathy. A literature review was performed using online databases namely, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of science to explore the possible pharmacological interventions that blunt the NLRP3 inflammasome-caspase-1-IL-1β/IL-18 axis and shown to have a beneficial effect in diabetic kidney diseases. This review describes the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation as a promising therapeutic target for drug discovery in future.

Stimuli-responsive In situ gelling system for nose-to-brain drug delivery

The diagnosis and treatment of neurological ailments always remain an utmost challenge for research fraternity due to the presence of BBB. The intranasal route appeared as an attractive and alternative route for brain targeting of therapeutics without the intrusion of BBB and GI exposure. This route directly and effectively delivers the therapeutics to different regions of the brain via olfactory and trigeminal nerve pathways. However, shorter drug retention time and mucociliary clearance curtail the efficiency of the intranasal route. The in situ mucoadhesive gel overthrow the limitations of direct nose-to-brain delivery by not only enhancing nasal residence time but also minimizing the mucociliary clearance and enzymatic degradation. This delivery system further improves the nasal absorption as well as bioavailability of drugs in the brain. The in situ mucoadhesive gel is a controlled and sustained release system that facilitates the absorption of various proteins, peptides and other larger lipophilic and hydrophilic moieties. Owing to multiple benefits, in situ gelling system has been widely explored to target the brain via nasal route. However, very few review works are reported which explains the application of in situ nasal gel for brain delivery of CNS acting moieties. Hence, in this piece of work, we have initially discussed the global statistics of neurological disorders reported by WHO and other reputed organizations, nasal anatomy, mechanism and challenges of nose-to-brain drug delivery. The work mainly focused on the use of different stimuli-responsive polymers, specifically thermoresponsive, pH-responsive, and ion triggered systems for the development of an effective and controlled dosage form, i.e., in situ nasal gel for brain targeting of bioactives. We have also highlighted the origin, structure, nature and phase transition behavior of the smart polymers found suitable for nasal administration, including poloxamer, chitosan, EHEC, xyloglucan, Carbopol, gellan gum and DGG along with their application in the treatment of neurological disorders. The article is aimed to gather all the information of the past 10 years related to the development and application of stimuli-responsive in situ nasal gel for brain drug delivery.

Local administration of 4-Thiouridine, a novel molecule with potent anti-inflammatory properties, protects against experimental colitis and arthritis

Previous studies in a rat model of Sephadex induced lung inflammation showed that 4-Thiouridine (4SU), a thiol substituted nucleoside, was very effective in reducing edema, leukocyte influx and TNF levels in bronchoalvelolar lavage fluid. However, little is known about the factors and mechanisms underlying these effects. In the present study, we have used two separate mouse models of chronic inflammation, a model of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) induced colitis and a model of antigen induced arthritis, to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of 4-thiouridine. We have analyzed a broad spectrum of inflammatory mediators in order to delineate the mechanisms behind a potential anti-inflammatory effect of 4SU. Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice by administration of 3.5% DSS in drinking water for 5 days and the potential anti-colitic effect of 4SU was assessed by monitoring the disease activity index (DAI), measurement of colon length and histopathological analysis of colon tissue. We analyzed tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, serum pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF), mRNA and protein expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, COX-2, and NF-κB activity in colitis tissue. Intracolonic administration of 4SU (5 mg/kg & 10 mg/kg.) significantly inhibited MPO activity and reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF) as well as COX-2. Further, NF-κB activation was also blocked by attenuating the phosphorylation of IkB kinase (IKK α/β) in DSS-induced colitis tissues. Arthritis was induced by intra-articular injection of mBSA in the knee of NMRI mice pre-immunized with mBSA and 4SU was administered locally by direct injection into the knee joint. The antiarthritic potential of 4SU was calculated by histopathological scores and histochemical analysis of joint tissue. Further, immunohistochemistry was used to study inflammatory cell infiltration and expression of cytokines and adhesion molecules in the synovium. Local administration of 50-100 mg/kg 4SU at the time of arthritis onset clearly prevented development of joint inflammation and efficiently inhibited synovial expression of CD18, local cytokine production and recruitment of leukocytes to the synovium. Taken together, our data clearly demonstrates a potent anti-inflammatory effect of 4SU in two experimental models. In conclusion 4SU could be a new promising candidate for therapeutic modulation of chronic inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis and arthritis.

Niclosamide encapsulated polymeric nanocarriers for targeted cancer therapy

Localized cancer rates are on an upsurge, severely affecting mankind across the globe. Timely diagnosis and adopting appropriate treatment strategies could improve the quality of life significantly reducing the mortality and morbidity rates. Recently, nanotherapeutics has precipitously shown increased efficacy for controlling abnormal tissue growth in certain sites in the body, among which ligand functionalized nanoparticles (NP) have caught much attention for improved survival statistics via active targeting. Our focus was to repurpose the antihelminthic drug, niclosamide (NIC), which could aid in inhibiting the abnormal growth of cells restricted to a specific region. The work here presents a one-pot synthesis of niclosamide encapsulated, hyaluronic acid functionalized core–shell nanocarriers [(NIC-PLGA NP)HA] for active targeting of localized cancer. The synthesized nanocarriers were found to possess spherical morphology with mean size of 150.8 ± 9 nm and zeta potential of −24.9 ± 7.21 mV. The encapsulation efficiency was found to be 79.19 ± 0.16% with a loading efficiency of 7.19 ± 0.01%. The nanohybrids exhibited extreme cytocompatibility upon testing with MDA-MB-231 and L929 cell lines. The rate of cancer cell elimination was approximately 85% with targeted cell imaging results being highly convincing. [(NIC-PLGA NP)HA] demonstrates increased cellular uptake leading to a hike in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, combating tumour cells aiding in the localized treatment of cancer and associated therapy.

Localized binding of nanoparticulate formulation, actively targeting the receptors present on the cell surface.

Identification and characterization of stress degradation products of sumatriptan succinate by using LC/Q-TOF-ESI-MS/MS and NMR: Toxicity evaluation of degradation products

Sumatriptan succinate, a selective 5-HT1B receptor agonist, was subjected to forced degradation studies as per to International Conference on Harmonization-specified conditions. The drug exclusively showed its degradation under basic, photolytic, and oxidative stress conditions, whereas it was found to be stable under acidic, thermal, and neutral conditions. Eight (DP-1 to DP-8) degradation products were identified and characterized by UPLC-ESI/MS/MS experiments combined with accurate mass measurements. The effective chromatographic separation was achieved on Hibar Purospher STAR, C18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column using mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid and methanol at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/minute in gradient elution method. It is noteworthy that 2 major degradation products DP-3 and DP-7 were isolated using preparative HPLC and characterized by advanced NMR experiments. The degradation pathway of the sumatriptan was established, which was duly justified by mechanistic explanation. In vitro cytotoxicity of isolated DPs was tested on normal human cells such as HEK 293 (embryonic kidney cells) and RWPE-1 (normal prostate epithelial cells). This study revealed that they were nontoxic up to 100 μm concentration. Further, in silico toxicity of the drug and its degradation products was determined using ProTox-II prediction tool. This study revealed that DP-4 and DP-8 are predicted for immune toxicity. Amine oxidase A and prostaglandin G/H synthase 1 are predicted as toxicity targets for DP-3, DP-4, and DP-6 whereas DP-1 and DP-2 are predicted for amine oxidase A target.

Forced degradation studies of lansoprazole using LC-ESI HRMS and 1 H-NMR experiments: in vitro toxicity evaluation of major degradation products

Regulatory agencies from all over the world have set up stringent guidelines with regard to drug degradation products due to their toxic effects or carcinogenicity. Lansoprazole, a proton-pump inhibitor, was subjected to forced degradation studies as per ICH guidelines Q1A (R2). The drug was found to degrade under acidic, basic, neutral hydrolysis and oxidative stress conditions, whereas it was found to be stable under thermal and photolytic conditions. The chromatographic separation of the drug and its degradation products were achieved on a Hiber Purospher, C18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μ) column using 10 mM ammonium acetate and acetonitrile as a mobile phase in a gradient elution mode at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. The eight degradation products (DP1-8) were identified and characterized by UPLC/ESI/HRMS with in-source CID experiments combined with accurate mass measurements. DP-1, DP-2 and DP-3 were formed in acidic, DP-4 in basic, DP-5 in neutral and DP-1, DP-6, DP-7 and DP-8 were in oxidation stress condition Among eight degradation products, five were hitherto unknown degradation products. In addition, one of the major degradation products, DP-2, was isolated by using semi preparative HPLC and other two, DP-6 and DP-7 were synthesized. The cytotoxic effect of these degradation products (DP-2, DP-6 and DP-7) were tested on normal human cells such as HEK 293 (embryonic kidney cells) and RWPE-1(normal prostate epithelial cells) by MTT assay. From the results of cytotoxicity, it was found that lansoprazole as well as its degradation products (DP-2, DP-6 and DP-7) were nontoxic up to 50-μM concentrations, and the latter showed slightly higher cytotoxicity when compared with that of lansoprazole. DNA binding studies using spectroscopic techniques indicate that DP-2, DP-6 and DP-7 molecules interact with ctDNA and may bind to its surface. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Uridine Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Colitis in Mice

Uridine, one of the four components that comprise RNA, has attracted attention as a novel therapeutic modulator of inflammation. However, very little is known about its effect on intestinal inflammation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential protective effect of intracolonic administered uridine against DSS induced colitis in male C57BL/6 mice. Intracolonic instillation of 3 doses of uridine 1 mg/Kg (lower dose), 5 mg/Kg (medium dose), and 10 mg/Kg (higher dose) in saline was performed daily. Uridine at medium and high dose significantly reduced the severity of colitis (DAI score) and alleviated the macroscopic and microscopic signs of the disease. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β and TNF in serum as well as mRNA expression in colon were significantly reduced in the uridine treated groups. Moreover, colon tissue myloperoxidase activities, protein expression of IL-6, TNF- α, COX-2, P-NFkB and P-Ikk-βα in the colon tissues were significantly reduced in medium and high dose groups. These findings demonstrated that local administration of uridine alleviated experimental colitis in male C57BL/6 mice accompanied by the inhibition of neutrophil infiltration and NF-κB signaling. Thus, Uridine may be a promising candidate for future use in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Cardamonin, a chalcone, inhibits human triple negative breast cancer cell invasiveness by downregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascades and reversal of epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Cardamonin (CD), an active chalconoid, has shown potent anticancer effects in preclinical studies; however, the effect and underlying mechanism of CD for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is unclear. This study aims to examine the cytotoxic effects of CD and investigate the underlying mechanism in human TNBC cells. The results show that CD exhibits cytotoxicity by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in TNBC cells via modulation of Bcl-2, Bax, cyt-C, cleaved caspase-3, and PARP. We find that CD significantly increases expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin, while reciprocally decreasing expression of mesenchymal markers such as snail, slug, and vimentin in BT-549 cells. In parallel with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) reversal, CD down regulates invasion and migration of BT-549 cells. CD markedly reduces stability and nuclear translocation of β-catenin, accompanied with downregulation of β-catenin target genes. Using the TopFlash luciferase reporter assay, we reveal CD as a specific inhibitor of the Wnt3a-induced signaling. These results suggest the involvement of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the CD-induced EMT reversion of BT-549 cells. Notably, CD restores the glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) activity, required for β-catenin destruction via the proteasome-mediated system, by inhibiting the phosphorylation of GSK3β by Akt. These occurrences ultimately lead to the blockage of EMT and the invasion of TNBC cells. Further antitumor activity of CD was tested in 4T1 (TNBC cells) induced tumor and it was found that CD significantly inhibited the tumor volume at dose of 5 mg/kg-treated mice. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(2):152-169, 2017.

Scaling the effect of hydrophobic chain length on gene transfer properties of di-alkyl, di-hydroxy ethylammonium chloride based cationic amphiphiles

Asymmetric hydrocarbon chains influence the efficiency of cationic lipids based liposomes in nucleic acid delivery. A systematic investigation of role of asymmetry in transfection efficiency.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of curcumin inspired indole analogues as tubulin polymerization inhibitors

In our endeavour towards the development of potent cytotoxic agents, a series of some new curcumin inspired indole analogues, in which indole and phenyl moieties are linked on either sides of 1,5-diaryl-1,4-pentadien-3-one system have been synthesized and characterized by spectral data. All the newly synthesized analogues were tested for their cytotoxic potential against a panel of eight cancer cell lines namely, lung (A549), breast (MDA-MB-231, BT549 and 4T1), prostate (PC-3, DU145), gastric (HGC-27) and cervical (HeLa). Notably, among all the compounds tested, compounds 11c, 11d and 11f showed potent growth inhibition on PC-3 and BT549 with IC₅₀ values in the range of 3.12-6.34 μM and 4.69-8.72 μM respectively. The most active compound (11c) was also tested on RWPE-1 (normal prostate) cells and was found to be safe compared to the PC-3 cells. In tubulin polymerization assay, compounds 11c and 11f effectively inhibited microtubule assembly with IC₅₀ values of 10.21 ± 0.10 and 8.83 ± 0.06 μM respectively. The results from molecular modelling studies revealed that these compounds bind at the colchicine binding site of the tubulin. Moreover, DAPI and acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining studies indicated that compounds 11c and 11f can induce apoptosis in PC-3 cells. Further flow-cytometry analysis revealed that compound 11c arrests PC-3 cells in G2/M phase of the cell cycle while compound 11f treatment resulted in moderate increase in the G2/M population. Additionally, the treatment by these compounds led to the impairment of mitochondrial membrane potential (DΨm) in PC-3 cells.

Amelioration of FCA induced arthritis on topical application of curcumin in combination with emu oil

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the skin penetration potential of emu oil and the possibility of enhancing the antiarthritic potential of lipophilic bioactive curcumin, which has poor permeability through biological membranes.

METHODS

Solubility and ex vivo skin permeation studies were performed with water, corn oil, and emu oil as a vehicle using curcumin as a model drug. Carrageenan induced inflammation and Freund's complete adjuvant-induced arthritic rat models were used to evaluate enhanced antiinflammatory and antiarthritic effect of curcumin in combination of emu oil via topical route.

RESULTS

The skin permeation study resulted in the combination of emu oil with curcumin enhancing the flux 1.84 and 4.25 times through the rat skin compared to corn oil and water, respectively. Results of carrageenan induced rat paw edema model demonstrated that percentage of paw inhibition shown by curcumin-emu oil combination was 1.42-fold more compared to the total effect shown by both groups treated with curcumin aqueous suspension and emu oil per se. In Freund's complete adjuvant-induced arthritic model, the combined treatment was effective in bringing significant changes in the functional, biochemical, histopathologic, and radiologic parameters. Topical application of curcumin-emu oil combination resulted in significant reduced levels of proinflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1 β, and IL-6 (P < 0.05, 0.001, and 0.01, respectively) compared to arthritic animals.

CONCLUSION

Topical delivery of curcumin with emu oil holds promise as a noninvasive and efficacious intervention for the treatment of inflammatory arthritis and it assists in further development of a topical formulation of curcumin using emu oil as a vehicle.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Gliomas: Pharmacotherapeutic Potential of Natural Compounds

Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors either benign or malignant originating from the glial tissue. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive form among all gliomas, associated with decimal prognosis due to it`s high invasive nature. GBM is also characterized by high recurrence rate and apoptosis resistance features which make the therapeutic targeting very challenging. Mitochondria are key cellular organelles that are acting as focal points in diverse array of cellular functions such as cellular energy metabolism, regulation of ion homeostasis, redox signaling and cell death. Eventual findings of mitochondrial dysfunction include preference of glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation, enhanced reactive oxygen species generation and abnormal mitochondria mediated apoptotic machinery are frequently observed in various malignancies including gliomas. In particular, gliomas harbor mitochondrial structure abnormalities, genomic mutations in mtDNA, altered energy metabolism (Warburg effect) along with mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) enzyme. Numerous natural compounds have shown efficacy in the treatment of gliomas by targeting mitochondrial aberrant signaling cascades. Some of the natural compounds directly target the components of mitochondria whereas others act indirectly through modulating metabolic abnormalities that are consequence of the mitochondrial dysfunction. The present review offers a molecular insight into mitochondrial pathology in gliomas and therapeutic mechanisms of some of the promising natural compounds that target mitochondrial dysfunction. This review also sheds light on the challenges and possible ways to overcome the hurdles associated with these natural compounds to enter into the clinical market.

Spirooxindole-derived morpholine-fused-1,2,3-triazoles: Design, synthesis, cytotoxicity and apoptosis inducing studies

A series of new spirooxindole-derived morpholine-fused-1,2,3-triazole derivatives has been synthesized from isatin spiro-epoxides. The protocol involves regiospecific isatin-epoxide ring opening with azide nucleophile followed by sequential O-propargylation, and intramolecular 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction. These compounds have been evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against selected human tumor cell lines of lung (A549), breast (MCF-7), cervical (HeLa), and prostate (DU-145). Among the tested compounds, 6i, 6n and 6p showed potent growth inhibition against A549 cell line with IC50 values in the range of 1.87-4.36 μM, which are comparable to reference standards doxorubicin and 5-flourouracil. The compounds 6i and 6p treated A549 cells displayed typical apoptotic morphological features such as cell shrinkage, nuclear condensation, fragmentation, and decreased migration potential. Flow-cytometry analysis revealed that the compounds arrested the cells in G2/M phase of cell cycle. Hoechst and acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining studies also showed that the cell proliferation was inhibited through induction of apoptosis. Moreover, the compounds treatment led to collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential (DΨm) and increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were noted in A549 cells.