1,3-di-4-piperidylpropane derivatives as potential acetyl cholinesterase antagonists: Molecular docking, synthesis, and biological evaluation

Acetylcholine esterase (AChE) is a key biological target responsible for the management of cholinergic transmission, and its inhibitors are used for the therapy of Alzheimer's disease. In the present study, a small library of molecules with 1,3-di-4-piperidylpropane nucleus were docked on AChE. The selected compounds were synthesized and evaluated for their enzyme inhibition. P25 and P17 expressed significantly higher AChE inhibition than standards with IC50 values of 0.591μM and 0.625μM, respectively. Binding mode of derivatives in the active site of AChE revealed dual binding of molecules in peripheral anionic site (PAS) and catalytic anionic site (CAS) of enzyme cavity.

Molecular docking, synthesis and biological evaluation of phenacyl derivatives of 9-aminoacridine as anti-Alzheimer's agent

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder mainly characterized by progressive deterioration of memory and impaired cognitive function. The most promising approach for symptomatic relief of AD is to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE). On the basis of this approach in-house library of 9-aminoacridine derivatives were constructed and allowed to docked against human acetylcholinesterase (hAChE) (PDB ID: 4EY7), using MOE 2018.01 and PyRx 0.9.2 (AutoDock Vina). Top ranked and best fitted molecules were synthesized by targeting the 9-amino group of aminoacridine with substituted phenacyl halides. Anti-Alzheimer's potential was checked by in vitro AChE inhibition, antioxidant activity (DPPH scavenging ability) and fibril disaggregation. Subjected ligands suggested as promising multitargeted candidate with pronounced results in term of IC₅₀ values (AChE inhibition 2.400-26.138μM), however, none of them showed potential towards fibril inhibition.

Gallic and vanillic acid suppress inflammation and promote myelination in an in vitro mouse model of neurodegeneration

Neuroinflammation affects millions of people around the world as a result of injury or stress. Neuroinflammation represents almost all types of neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease. Neurodegenerative diseases comprise demyelination and synaptic loss. The inflammatory response is further propagated by the activation of glial cells and modulation of constitutively expressed extracellular matrix proteins. The aim of the present study was to identify the anti-inflammatory effects of purified compounds gallic acid (GA, 1.0 µM) and vanillic acid (VA, 0.2 µM) on the lysolecithin (LPC, 0.003%)-induced model of inflammation. Hippocampal neurons were co-cultured with glial cells, and LPC was added to induce inflammation. Neurite outgrowth was measured by morphometry software. The level of myelination and demyelination was identified by immunostaining and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting techniques using different antibodies. Whole-cell patch clamp recordings were used to observe the sustained repetitive firing pattern. The data showed that GA and VA significantly increased the neurite outgrowth after 48 h in culture. Both compounds significantly reduced the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, NFκB, tenascin-C, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans and glial fibrillary acidic protein in astrocytes in the LPC-induced model of inflammation. The level of myelin protein in neurites and oligodendrocyte cell bodies was significantly upregulated by GA and VA treatment. The reduction in sustained repetitive firing in the LPC-induced model of inflammation was reversed by both GA and VA treatment. This study supports the hypothesis that VA and GA have anti-inflammatory activities and could be regarded as potential treatments for neurodegenerative disease.

Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 3-octyl-4-oxo-2,6-bis-(3,4,5-tri-meth-oxy-phen-yl)piperidinium chloride

The title compound, C31H46NO7+·Cl-, was synthesized by a one-pot Mannich condensation reaction. In the mol-ecule, the piperidinone ring adopts a chair conformation, and the trimeth-oxy-substituted benzene rings and octyl chain are arranged equatorially. In the crystal, centrosymmetric dimers are linked into layers parallel to (011) by N-H⋯Cl and C-H⋯Cl hydrogen bonds. A Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are O⋯H (20.5%) inter-actions followed by C⋯H (7.8%), Cl⋯H (5.5%), C⋯C (1.2%), C⋯O (0.5%) and Cl⋯O (0.4%) inter-actions.

Synthesis, characterization and SAR of novel Bezimidazole derivatives as Nematicidal agents

Six novel analogues were prepared by reacting benzimidazole molecules (BM and CMB) propiophenone and benzoyl chlorides respectively. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were determined with the help of spectroscopic techniques. The compounds were subjected to in-vitro screening for their activity against nematodes. It was observed that the benzimidazole (BM) derivatives possessed more nematicidal activity as compared to that of cyanomethyl-benzimidazole (CMB) for Meloidogyne incognita. Among them, the propiophenone substituted benzimidazole derivative B3 was found to be the most active compound and can be further studied as lead molecule for development of anthelmintic drugs.

Immunomodulatory activity and chemical characterization of fixed oils obtained from different parts of Oxytropis glabra DC

Oxytropis glabra DC. is a plant with enormous therapeutic vitality. In the present study a comparison of lipophilic profiling of different parts of O. glabra has been carried out by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A total of 32 compounds have been identified from this plant, amongst which 31 have been identified for the first time. These compounds have been further confirmed from their Van den Dool and Kratz (I) Indices. Out of these 32 compounds, 18 have been identified from flower (80.94%), 15 from fruit (85.36%), 11 from leaves (66.35%) and 11 from root (45.96%). The major class of metabolite identified from different parts is fatty acid. Hydrocarbons have also been detected in flower and fruit but not in root and leaves. The extracts were screened for their immunomodulatory activity on whole blood cells. The root oil was found to be moderately active (IC50 32.3 μg/mL). At present only limited data is available on the phytochemical composition of O. glabra.

Vitex negundo induces an anticonvulsant effect by inhibiting voltage gated sodium channels in murine Neuro 2A cell line

Vitex negundo (Vn) extract is famous for the treatment of neurological diseases such as migraine and epilepsy. These neurological diseases have been associated with abnormally increased influx of sodium ions into the neurons. Drugs that inhibit voltage gated sodium channels can be used as potent anti-epileptics. Till now, the effects of Vn on sodium channels have not been investigated. Therefore, we have investigated the effects of methalonic fraction of Vn extract in Murine Neuro 2A cell line. Cells were cultured in a defined medium with or without the Vn extract (100 μg/ml). Sodium currents were recorded using whole-cell patch clamp method. The data show that methanolic extract of Vn inhibited sodium currents in a dose dependent manner (IC50 =161μg/ml). Vn (100 μg/ml) shifted the steady-state inactivation curve to the left or towards the hyper polarization state. However, Vn did not show any effects on outward rectifying potassium currents. Moreover, Vn (100 μg/ml) significantly reduced the sustained repetitive (48±4.8%, P<0.01) firing from neonatal hippocampal neurons at 12 DIV. Hence, our data suggested that inhibition of sodium channels by Vn may exert pharmacological effects in reducing pain and convulsions.

Neuroprotective capabilities of Vitex negundo in primary hippocampal neurons

Vitex negundu (Vn) is a well-known aromatic shrub commonly used as a traditional folk medicine famous for its potential pharmacological and biological activities. Several chemical compounds are extracted and identified from the different parts of the Vn such as leaves, root, seeds and flowers. Number of researches reported the herb as antimicrobial, anti-androgenic, anti-osteoporotic, and anti-tumour, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-hyperglycemic and hepatoprotective. The effects of Vn on neurite outgrowth have not been identified till now. Therefore present study was designed to investigate the neurite outgrowth effects of Vn extract in hippocampal neurons. Neurons from P0 mice were isolated and cultured in defined medium containing the different concentrations of Vn (20, 30, 40, 50, 100, 150 and 200 μg/ml) for 48 hrs. The presence of the neurites was confirmed by using βIII-tubulin antibody which specifically labels only the neurites. Morphometric analysis was done by using Optika Pro-Vision software. The data show that Vn at 30 and 40 μg/ml significantly increased the mean average length of the longest neurite whereas at 150 and 200 μg/ml it significantly decreased the mean average length of the 10 longest neurite in hippocampal neurons. Nevertheless Vn did not show any significant effects on the sum of all the neurite lengths at any concentrations tested. Taken together the result shows that methanolic extract of Vn has potential to produce long neurites at 30 and 40 μg/ml and therefore can be act as a neuroprotective agent in the future drug development.

Neurite outgrowth properties of Calotropis procera: In search for a neuroprotectant

In view of the well-documented medicinal properties of Calotropis procera (CP), the present study was designed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of the extract. We have prepared a methanolic extract of Calotropis procera and screen varying concentration of CP (20, 30, 40, 50 and 70μg/ml) for the stimulatory potency on neurite outgrowth. The stimulatory effect of CP on neurite outgrowth was assessed in primary hippocampal neurons. Neurite lengths were measured using optika provison analysis software. Neuritogenesis was further analyzed by immunostaining by using specific neuronal marker β III-tubulin. The data show that neurite outgrowth from hippocampal neurons were significantly enhanced in the presence of CP (40μg/ml). The most stimulatory neurite outgrowth effects were appeared after 48hrs incubation of neurons with CP (40μg/ml). These data confirm that CP extract could promote invitro hippocampal neurite outgrowth in a dose-dependent manner. Our results indicate that CP can be used as a healthy dietary supplement for the cognitive functions of the brain.

Antimicrobial and antioxidant screening of N¢-substituted sulphonyl and benzoyl derivatives of 4-Pyridine carboxylic acid hydrazide

In this research program, the antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities of six N'-substituted sulfonyl and benzoyl derivatives of lead molecule PCH were reported. Out of these compounds, sulphonyl derivatives 2,3 and benzoyl derivative 5 showed moderate to good activity against different strains of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including B. cereus, B. subtilis, B. thruingiensis and S. pyogenes, S. fecalis and E. coli ATCC 8739. Moreover, upon antifungal screening, the compound, N¢-[(2,4,6-trimethylbenzene) sulfonyl]pyridine-4-carbohydrazide possessed good antifungal activity against Candida species, a causative agent of systemic fungal infections. Antioxidant study demonstrated more than 50% inhibition in DPPH assay for sulphonyl derivative 2 indicating its potential as antioxidant while the other derivatives expressed low level of radical scavenging property.

Syntheses and Evaluation of the Analgesic Activity of Some 4-Acetyl- 4-phenylpiperidine and 4-Hydroxy-4-phenylpiperidine Derivatives

Synthesis and analgesic activity of 4-phenylpiperidine derivatives is a topic of high actuality. A s part of a programme towards obtaining new potential analgesics, ten derivatives of 4- acetyl-4-phenylpiperidine and ten derivatives of 4-hydroxy-4-phenylpiperidine were synthesised and characterized through spectroscopic techniques. All derivatives along with the parent compounds were evaluated for analgesic activity in the acetic acid-induced writhing assay and tail-flick test in mice. All derivatives of 4-acetyl-4-phenylpiperidine except one com pound exhibited more or less protection against mice writhing, whereas all the compounds proved to be inactive in the tail-flick test at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight.

Behavioral and neurochemical profile of some novel phenacyl based isonipecotamide derivatives

Study of natural products led to the development of new molecules of potential biological activity. Piperidine nucleus constitutes one of the components of various alkaloids and drugs. During the course of our project regarding the synthesis of derivatives of piperidine carboxamide to study the effects of these compounds as anti-depressive agents, some of the compounds exhibited significant effects at all three doses, through open field activity thus establishing a direct relationship between dose and locomotion. Moreover, these compounds have also shown the decreased level of 5-HT alone with increased level of dopamine as an indication of their antagonism towards 5-HT receptor.

Naturally occurring and synthetic agents as potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulants

Terpenes in general and triterpenes in particular showed anti-inflammatory activity and act as immunomodulators in nutraceutical agents. Antiinflammation, a useful and attractive approach in experimental oncology, helps to investigate the inflammation preventive potential of natural products and synthetic entities. During the course of our research work in natural product chemistry and synthesis of novel structures in the field of heterocyclic chemistry, we found interesting results. In natural product betulinic acid, α-amyrin acetate, lupeol acetate, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid and their derivatives showed interesting potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. In this review specific reference has been made to novel classes and newly discovered compounds in the literature, which exhibited required activities. Indomethacine is a potent synthetic compound, which becomes the basis of novel anti-inflammatory agents. Shen postulated a receptor theory which indicates the physical parameters responsible for anti-inflammatory activity. Attempt has been made to cover almost all the anti-inflammatory agents which fall under the various chemical structural classes of compounds showing required activity. The objective of this review is to compile relevant data on the mechanism of action of terpenes isolated from active ethnomedicinal plants to examine the role terpenoids have in medicinal plants used against inflammatory diseases, especially those in which an immune response is implicated. In addition, a selection of several structurally related compounds has been compiled in order to analyze the possible structural characteristics and relationships between the different types of structures found in triterpenoids. The selection of active species was made on the basis of their immunomodulatory activity, and their role in the resolution of diseases in which the immune system is implicated to examine the mechanism by which they are useful as ethnopharmacological medicines. These terpenes include ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, betulinic acid. This review discusses in detail the preclinical studies conducted with triterpenes and provides an insight into its mechanism of action.

Synthesis of some novel analogues of 4-(1-Pyrrolidinyl) Piperidine and their effect on plasma glucose level

In the present study some compounds of 4-(1-Pyrrolidinyl) Piperidine (I) have been synthesized. Structures of compounds were confirmed by using HNMR, IR, Mass and UV spectrophotometer techniques. All the derivatives (II, III, IV and V) and the parent compound (I) at the dose of 100 mg/kg were evaluated for their effect on plasma glucose level. Compound (II) was the only derivative which showed effect on plasma glucose level.

Synthesis and pharmacological activities of 7-azaindole derivatives

As a part of our program to discover novel analogues of 7-azaindole (1H-Pyrrolo[2,3-b] pyridine) having useful biological activities, some derivatives have been synthesized and evaluated for their analgesic and hypotensive activity. Compounds evaluated by thermal stimuli (tail immersion method) at the dose of 50 mg/kg of body weight revealed significant analgesic activity. Pethidine was used as reference drug. Same compounds tested at the dose of 75 mg/kg of body weight showed toxicity. Compounds tested for their effect on blood pressure in normotensive rat produced slight fall in blood pressure.

Synthesis and smooth muscle-selective relaxant activity of a piperidine analogue: 1-(4′-fluorophenacyl)-4-hydroxy-4-phenyl-piperidinium chloride

The antispasmodic and vasodilator activities of a newly synthesized piperidine derivative (1-(4'-fluorophenacyl)-4-hydroxy-4-phenyl-piperidinium chloride) were studied in vitro. The test compound exhibited a dose-dependent relaxant effect on the spontaneous and K+ (75 mM)-induced contractions of isolated rabbit jejunum with respective EC50 values of 0.01 mM (0.01-0.02, 95% Cl) and 0.30 mM (0.17-0.56). The Ca++ channel blocking (CCB) activity was confirmed when the test compound (0.1-0.2 mM) shifted the Ca++ dose-response curves to the right, similar to that produced by verapamil (0.1-1.0 microM), a standard CCB. In the isolated rabbit aorta, the test compound showed a dose-dependent vasodilator effect on K+ (75 mM)-induced contractions with an EC50 value of 0.08 mM (0.02-0.26) while also suppressed the norepinephrine (1 microM) control peak responses with EC50 value of 0.08 mM (0.05-0.13, n=5). When tested in Langendorff perfused rabbit heart preparation, the test compound exhibited a negligible inhibitory effect on the rate or force of atrial and ventricular contractions when tested up to 5 mM. The results show smooth muscle-selective relaxant effect of the test compound on intestinal and vascular preparations mediated possibly via blockade of voltage and receptor-operated Ca++ channels.

Antibacterial activity of 1-methyl-7-methoxy-beta-carboline and its phenacyl and coumarine analogues

Antibacterial activity of 1-methyl-7-methoxy-beta-carboline (harmaline) and its phenacyl and coumarine analogues 1-(3-nitro-phenyl)-(2-(7-methoxy-1-methyl-1,3,4,9-tetrahydro-beta-carbolin-2-yl)-ethanone (II), 1-(3,4-dihydroxy-phenyl)-2-(7-methoxy-1-methyl-1,3,4,9-tetrahydro-beta-carbolin-2-yl)-ethanone (III) 7-(methoxy-beta-carboline),15-24,de-hydro(19,20-dimethoxy)coumarine (IV), 7-(methoxy-beta-carboline)15-24,dehydro(20-methoxy)coumarine (V) were studied by disc diffusion method. All compounds were tested against three gram positive and four gram-negative bacteria. Parent compound showed good activity. All compounds revealed better results against gram positive as compared to gram-negative bacteria. 1-(3,4-Dihydroxy-phenyl)-2-(7-methoxy-1-methyl-1,3,4,9-tetrahydro-beta-carbolin-2-yl)-ethanone (III) was found most potent compound showing broad spectrum activity when compared with all synthesized analogues. Coumarine analogues showed more or less same activity indicating that number and position of methoxy groups are not important regarding antimicrobial activity.

Pharmacological activity of morpholino compound

The pharmacological effect of morpholino compound in different biological field is of great importance for researchers and investigators. They are working day and night to synthesize pharmacologically more effective morpholino derivatives with less toxic effects. This kind of pharmacological screening of synthesized compounds can lead to the discovery of biologically useful compounds. The findings of the present study are encouraging, since present compound showed a promising analgesic activities and anti-inflammatory. Chemically synthesized morpholino compound are tested for its analgesic and inflammatory activities in intact albino mice ad rat. Compound was administered orally in different doses using the tail immersion test in mice for analgesic activity. The results of this study demonstrated that compound has inhibitory effect on arachidonic acid metabolisms via cyclooxygenase pathway or we can say the inhibition of prostaglandins biosynthesis. Classical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which inhibits cyclooxygenase, can shift arachidonic metabolism to lipoxygenase products. These findings reflect a new fact of pharmacological action of this compound like inhibition of arachidonic acid pathway in vivo. It can be concluded that the present study revealed a fair success rate but it is necessary to carry out further investigation to confirm the results.

Synthesis and Pharmacological Activity of 4-(4'-(Chlorophenyl)-4-hydroxypiperidine) Derivatives

A new series of 4-(4'-chlorophenyl)-4-hydroxypiperidine derivatives (2-5), substituted at nitrogen, were synthesized and tested as potential analgesic compounds as well as evaluated for their effect on hypotensive activity. Results showed that all the derivatives exhibit significant analgesic activity in male Wistar rats at a dose of 50 mg/kg of body weight after intramuscular injection, when tested by thermal stimuli (tail flick test). Pethidine was used as reference drug. Compounds 2, 3 and 5 produced reduction in blood pressure in normotensive rat.

Effect of diazepam on the CNS excitation and behavioural changes induced by harmaline and its newly synthesized analogues

The neuropharmacologic profile of harmala alkaloids has been studied and found to have central effects like convulsions, catalepsy, or altered startle response. In number of studies the effects of diazepam, on harmaline and other beta carboline containing compounds-induced tremors were investigated. The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of diazepam on pretreated animals with harmaline and its synthesized phenacyl and coumarine analogues. Diazepam successfully inhibited the tremor and convulsions and attenuated the other behavioural response produced by harmaline and its derivatives.

Biochemical studies on marine fish oil part-I: effects of fish oil and lipid lowering drugs on HDL/LDL cholesterol levels

Omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil are potent cholesterol lowering agents. This fact has drawn our attention to investigate their effects alone and in combination with competitive inhibitors, (hydrooxymethylglutaryl coenzume-A reductase). The naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids i.e., polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in fish oil have been proved as anticholesterolemic agents. In order to observe their actions as lipid lowering agents, the present study has been carried out which deals with the synergistic effect of fish oil with that of Lovastatin and Gemfibrozil.

Synthesis of some phenacyl derivatives of 1-methyl-7-methoxy-beta-carboline and their behavioural study

In the present study two phenacyl derivatives of Harmaline; 2-(7-Methoxy-1-methyl-1,3,4,9-tetrahydro-beta-carbolin-2-yl)-1-(3-nitro-phenyl)-ethanone and 1-(3,4-Dihydroxy-phenyl)-2-(7-methoxy-1-methyl-1,3,4,9-tetrahydro-beta-carbolin-2-yl)-ethanone were synthesized and evaluated for their effect on behaviour of mice, only meta-nitro phenacyl derivative showed activity, which can be compared with parent compound.

Syntheses, antibacterial, cytotoxic and antifungal effects of new 3-carboxy-l-phenacylpyridinium salts

Thirteen pyridine-3-carboxylic acid salt derivatives with various substituted phenacyl residues were prepared and their cytotoxicity, antibacterial and antifungal activities tested. Compounds 5 and 11 proved to be active in the brine shrimp bioassay, compounds 7, 9-12 and 14 showed promising antibacterial activities, whereas none of the compounds tested against 15 fungal cultures proved to be active. Extensive spectroscopic techniques were employed to confirm the structure of the synthetic products.

Neurochemical effects of 8-hydroxy-2-di-n-propylamino tetralin in rats treated with haloperidol

In view of a possible role of presynaptic serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) receptors in the precipitation of extrapyramidal side effects (EPS), the present study was designed to investigate the neurochemical effects of a selective 5-HT1A ligand, 8-hydroxy-2- (di-n-propylamino) tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) in rats following single (5 mg/kg) and repeated (two-times a day for 9 days at dosage of 5mg/kg) haloperidol administration. Haloperidol plus 8-OH-DPAT injected animals exhibited a decrease in dopamine (DA) and an increase in DA metabolite homovanillic acid (HVA) levels in the striatum and rest of the brain. The two groups of animals exhibited comparable levels of 5-HT and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in the striatum and rest of the brain. Animals injected with haloperidol and killed 24 hrs after the last injection of haloperidol exhibited higher DA and HVA levels in the striatum but not in the rest of the brain. Conversely, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), the other metabolite of DA, decreased in the rest of the brain. 5-HIAA concentrations increased in the striatum but not in the rest of the brain. Administration of 8-OH-DPAT significantly decreased 5-HT and 5-HIAA levels in the rest of brain and did not alter 5-HIAA in the striatum of repeated saline injected rats. Conversely, same dose of 8-OH-DPAT injected to repeatedly haloperidol injected animals did not decrease 5-HT and 5-HIAA concentrations in the rest of the brain but decreased 5-HIAA levels in the striatum. No effect of 8-OH-DPAT injections occurred on striatal or rest of the brain DA metabolism in repeatedly saline injected animals except that DOPAC decreased in the striatum of both groups. The results are discussed in the context of a role of somatodendritic 5-HT1A receptors in the regulation of DA metabolism following single and repeated administration of haloperidol. It is suggested that an increase in the responsiveness of these receptors may be involved in the precipitation of EPS observed in patients on haloperidol therapy.

Comparative studies on nicotinic acid derivatives as hypolipoproteinemic agents

Nicotinic acid and its related compounds are well known lipid lowering agents but the use of nicotinic acid in clinical practice is limited because of its side effects. To reduce the unwanted effects, new derivatives of nicotinic acid have been synthesized and tested in control and pathological animals for their antilipoproteinemic effects. Two newly synthesized derivatives of nicotinic acid i.e. 3-methoxy phenacyl nicotinium bromide (T1) and 2-methoxy phenacyl nicotinium bromide (T2) have been screened for their hypolipoproteinemic effects in white male rabbits. The compounds were administered in the doses of 30 mg/day and the results were compared with aspirin taken as the reference drug. The present work revealed that both of these synthesize compounds exhibited marked effects on plasma lipoproteins assuming that these compounds exerted their action by inhibiting hepatic production of very low density lipoprotins (VLDL), ultimately leading to reduction in low density lipoprotein. Clofibrate and aspirin are taken as standards to evaluate the potentials of these agents for their effects on lipid.

Antimicrobial activity of some commonly used herbs

In the present study some herbal extracts have been tested for their antibacterial activity using seven different strains of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria to measure the zone of inhibition. Extracts were found devoid of activity against all the microorganisms.

A study on fatty acid composition of fish oil from two marine fish, Eusphyra blochii and Carcharhinus bleekeri

Two species of marine fish found in coastal waters of Karachi (Pakistan) were studied, Eusphyra blochii (Hammer-headed Shark) and Carcharhinus bleekeri (Shark) for their fatty acid composition. The isolation, identification and characterization of these fatty acids were carried out by gas liquid chromatography (GLC) and a combination of TLC-GLC technique. A large variation was observed between hammer-headed shark liver oil and shark liver oil. Twenty five individual fatty acids from the oil of marine fish were analyzed among those the palmitic acid was a major saturated fatty acid while stearic acid was the other major constituent. Among unsaturated fatty acids monoenoic e.g. oleic and palmitoleic acids were the major constituents and traces of dienoic and trienoic fatty acids were also found. In addition medicinally important polyunsaturated fatty, acid eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids were also identified.

A comparative study of omega-3-fatty acids obtained from marine fish and bezafibrate alone and in combination as hypolipidemic agents

The fish oil and its constituents have been studied in detail with special reference to ailments. The discovery of omega-3 fatty acids led to a detailed investigation about its effect and role as anti-cholesterolemic agents. The effect of fish oil alone and in combination with acid derivatives was found to be a potent cholesterol and triglycerides lowering agent. Comparative studies of fish oils and bezafibrate led to the formulation of new therapeutic combination having lesser side effects and toxicity.

Cineole as skin penetration enhancer

Cineole is a chief constituent of eucalyptus oil and constitutes almost 80% of this essential oil. A study was conducted on skin penetration enhancing capacity of cineole (1, 8-cineole) towards the permeation of 5 flurouracil in excised rat skin; it caused almost 83 fold increase in drug permeability co-efficient, the mode of action of acceleration may be described by combined process of partition and diffusion.

Neurochemical and extra pyramidal effects of atypical neuroleptic clozapine in rats

In view of a possible role of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and dopamine (DA) in neuroleptic-induced muscle rigidity and catalepsy, the present study is designed to investigate the neurochemical and extrapyramidal effects of atypical antipsychotic/neuroleptic drug i.e., Clozapine (CZP) on the metabolism of serotonin and dopamine particularly in the caudate (a region of the brain involved in the control of movement), accumbens and rest of the rat brain. Interaperitoneal (i.p) injections of CZP at doses of 5.0 & 10 mg/kg decreased significantly (p<0.01) locomotor activity in familiar (home cage) environment. CZP produced a significant (P<0.01) cataleptic response only at doses of 10 mg/kg used. Maximal cataleptic effects in rats occurred at high doses of CZP. Acute administration of CZP significantly (p<0.01) decreased levels of NA in accumbens at all the doses used. Significant increases (p<0.01) in the levels of NA observed in rest of the brain only at moderate dose (5 mg/kg) of CZP. Results showed significant (p<0.01) increases in the levels of caudate DA following the administration of CZP at 10 mg/kg. However administration of CZP at all the doses produced similar significant (p<0.01) increases in the levels of HVA in all the regions of the rat brain. Overall insignificant effects of CZP occurred on brain regional TRP. However, plasma TRP significantly (p<0.01) increased at 2.5 mg/kg dose of CZP. Administration of CZP at doses of 2.5 and 10 mg/kg significantly (p<0.01) decreased 5-HT levels in the rest of the brain. Administration of CZP produced insignificant (p>0.05) effects on 5-HIAA levels in the caudate and accumbens regions but CZP at doses of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg significantly (p<0.01) decreased 5-HIAA levels in the rest of the brain. Neurochemical and extrapyramidal effects of atypical antipsychotic (clozapine) are discussed in relation to a potential therapeutic profile in rats.

Role of quinone moiety as antitumour agents: a review

Quinone antitumour agents with wide spectrum of activity have been extensively used in different forms of human cancers. Quinones have been isolated either from animals, microorganisms or plants. Extensive research on quinone compounds is going on to discover novel effective antitumour compound. We also discussed the mechanism of action, which have not been fully clarified. In this review we cover all the above-mentioned aspects to emphasize the importance of quinone moiety as antitumour agents.

A study on the effects of some new derivatives of piperidine on neurotransmitters

Four chemically synthesized derivatives of piperidine were subjected to evaluate their pharmacological actions on Nervous System in male albino mice. The effects on neuro-transmitters such as catecholamine and indolamine assuming that these derivatives might alter them differently, studied by HPLC-EC method. The result revealed that brain dopamine and catecholamine were altered by most of these derivatives at the doses of 100 mg/kg body weight.

Cardiac and intestinal contractions under the influence of triturated drug dilutions

Triturated dilutions of acetylcholine and adrenaline are found to produce reverse effects than their parent one on the mechanical performance of mammalian heart and intestine in vitro. However, there is a variation in the magnitude of reverse response observed for both the tissues. It is concluded that variation in the effect of triturated dilutions is probably due to handling and shaking of the diluted drug before use in experiments. In addition, no relation exists between degree of dilution and the magnitude of response for both the tissues.

Studies on the effects of piperidine derivatives on blood pressure and smooth muscles contractions

Ten substituted phenacyl derivatives of 4-hydroxypiperidine were synthesized and studied for their effects on the mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) in normotensive anaesthetized rats and smooth muscles contractions of isolated rabbit jejunum. Two derivatives caused fall in blood pressure at the dose of 10-20 mg/kg and one rise in blood pressure at the dose of 20 mg/kg. Two compounds exhibited biphasic response (hypotensive followed by hypertensive) and one gave triphasic response at 10 mg/kg dose. Rest of four derivatives were found devoid of any effect on mean arterial blood pressure up to the dose of 30 mg/kg. All the derivatives except two caused relaxant effect on the spontaneous contraction of rabbit jejunum at the dose range of 0.1-2 mg/kg.

Assessment of Anemone pulsatilla for some biological activities

Preliminary screening of herbal extracts employs the determination of their biological activity and the estimation of their therapeutic potential. This eliminates the unnecessary effort of fractionation and purification of constituents unimportant from the practice pharmacological point of view. It also gives a scientific basis to the herbs traditionally used in folk medicine. Thus, during the present investigation the spasmolytic effect of Anemone pulsatilla extract on isolated tissues of rabbit jejunum was evaluated. In addition the pharmacological screening of Anemone pulsatilla extract was also earned out.

Synthesis and anti-microbial screening of some piperidine derivatives

Synthesis of piperidine derivatives viz, 1-(4'-methoxy phenacyl)-N-methyl piperidinium bromide, and 1-(4'-nitrophenacyl)-N-methyl piperidinium bromide, and 1-(3', 4'-dihydroxy phenacyl)-N-methyl piperidinium chloride was carried out by quarternizing N-methyl piperidine with corresponding phenacyl halides. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques such as UV, IR, EI mass and 1H-NMR. The compounds were subjected to antimicrobial screening in quantities of 10 mg/ml dissolved in DMSO. Disc diffusion method was used to observe the significance of these compounds against seven bacterial and one fungal cultures.

Pharmacological evaluation of newly synthesized piperidinium derivatives for their analgesic activity

Two chemically synthesized piperidinium derivatives i.e l-methyl-1-(3,4) dihydroxy phenacyl-4-hydroxy piperidinium chloride and 1-methyl-(4-p) methoxy phenacyl 4-hydroxy piperidinium bromide have been evaluated for their analgesic activity in intact albino mice by tail immersion method because of their structural similarity with opioids. Both the compounds were administered in the doses of 50 mg/kg. The results were compared with pethidine used as the reference drug. The control animal received only the vehicle. The present study suggested that both the compounds exhibit significant analgesic activity.

Synthesis of some phenacyl nicotinates as potential anticholesterolemic agents

Three anticholesterolemic agents, 2,4-dimethoxy phenacyl nicotinium bromide, 2,5-dimethoxy-phenacyl-nicotinium bromide, and 2,3,6-tribromo 3,5-dimethoxy-phenacyl-nicotinium bromide, were synthesized and their chemical structures were determined by spectroscopic method.

Effect of environments on human functions: studies on water metabolism

The purpose of this review is to study general behaviour of human systems with respect to the environmental conditions. This type of work will be of profound significance to record the effect of medical treatment in various climatic zones of the world (Arayne and Saify, 1975). We attempted to discuss various facts which would be helpful for tackling the health problems of the people residing in these areas. The statistical data is avoided at the moment and a descriptive pattern is adapted in order to express views, about one of the important aspects of medical science.