SAEDC: Development of a technological solution for exploratory data analysis and statistics in cytotoxicity

INTRODUCTION

The intergovernmental organizations Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM) have developed guidelines for the use of in vitro models for toxicological evaluation of chemicals. However, the presence of manual steps and the requirement of multiple tools for data analysis, apart from being costly and time-consuming, can inadvertently introduce errors by researchers.

OBJECTIVES

We have developed the SAEDC platform (Technological Solution for Exploratory Data Analysis and Statistics for Cytotoxicity, in Portuguese), which enables analysis of cytotoxicity data from assays following OECD Guideline No. 129.

METHODOLOGY

In vitro experimental data were used to compare with the analysis methodology suggested in the Guideline. We analyzed 117 data sets covering chemicals from Category I to Unclassified according to GHS classification.

RESULTS

The four-parameters of non-linear regression (4PL) calculated by the SAEDC platform showed no significant differences compared to standard methodology in any of the data sets (p > 0.05). The coefficient of determination (R-squared) also demonstrated not only a good fit of the 4PL model to the data but also significant similarity to values obtained by the conventional methodology. Finally, the SAEDC platform predicted LD50 values for the chemicals from IC50, using the Registry of Cytotoxicity (RC) regression models.

CONCLUSION

The comparison with the standard data analysis methodology revealed that SAEDC platform fulfills the requirements for cytotoxicity data analysis, generating reliable and accurate results with fewer steps performed by researchers. The use of SAEDC platform for obtaining toxicity values can reduce analysis time compared to the standard methodology proposed by regulatory agencies. Thus, automation of the analysis using the SAEDC platform has the potential to save time and resources for cytotoxicity researchers and laboratories while generating reliable results.

DNA-delivered monoclonal antibodies targeting the p53 R175H mutant epitope inhibit tumor development in mice

The tumor suppressor p53 is the most common mutated gene in cancer, with the R175H as the most frequent p53 missense mutant. However, there are currently no approved targeted therapies or immunotherapies against mutant p53. Here, we characterized and investigated a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that recognizes the mutant p53-R175H for its affinity, specificity, and activity against tumor cells in vitro. We then delivered DNA plasmids expressing the anti-R175H mAb or a bispecific antibody (BsAb) into mice to evaluate their therapeutic effects. Our results showed that the anti-R175H mAb specifically bound to the p53-R175H antigen with a high affinity and recognized the human mutant p53-R175H antigen expressed on HEK293T or MC38 cells, with no cross-reactivity with wild-type p53. In cultured cells, the anti-R175H mAb showed higher cytotoxicity than the control but did not induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. We made a recombinant MC38 mouse cell line (MC38-p53-R175H) that overexpressed the human p53-R175H after knocking out the endogenous mutant p53 alleles. In vivo, administration of the anti-R175H mAb plasmid elicited a robust anti-tumor effect against MC38-p53-R175H in mice. The administration of the anti-R175H BsAb plasmid showed no therapeutic effects, yet potent anti-tumor activity was observed in combination with the anti-PD-1 antibody. These results indicate that targeting specific mutant epitopes using DNA-delivered mAbs or BsAbs presents a form of improved natural immunity derived from tumor-infiltrating B cells and plasma cells against intracellular tumor antigens.

Feeder-free differentiation of human iPSCs into natural killer cells with cytotoxic potential against malignant brain rhabdoid tumor cells

Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic immune cells that can eliminate target cells without prior stimulation. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a robust source of NK cells for safe and effective cell-based immunotherapy against aggressive cancers. In this in vitro study, a feeder-free iPSC differentiation was performed to obtain iPSC-NK cells, and distinct maturational stages of iPSC-NK were characterized. Mature cells of CD56bright CD16bright phenotype showed upregulation of CD56, CD16, and NK cell activation markers NKG2D and NKp46 upon IL-15 exposure, while exposure to aggressive atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) cell lines enhanced NKG2D and NKp46 expression. Malignant cell exposure also increased CD107a degranulation markers and stimulated IFN-γ secretion in activated NK cells. CD56bright CD16bright iPSC-NK cells showed a ratio-dependent killing of ATRT cells, and the percentage lysis of CHLA-05-ATRT was higher than that of CHLA-02-ATRT. The iPSC-NK cells were also cytotoxic against other brain, kidney, and lung cancer cell lines. Further NK maturation yielded CD56-ve CD16bright cells, which lacked activation markers even after exposure to interleukins or ATRT cells - indicating diminished cytotoxicity. Generation and characterization of different NK phenotypes from iPSCs, coupled with their promising anti-tumor activity against ATRT in vitro, offer valuable insights into potential immunotherapeutic strategies for brain tumors.

Surface property and in vitro toxicity effect of insoluble particles given by protein corona: Implication for PM cytotoxicity assessment

In vitro toxicological assessment helps explore key fractions of particulate matter (PM) in association with the toxic mechanism. Previous studies mainly discussed the toxicity effects of the water-soluble and organic-soluble fractions of PM. However, the toxicity of insoluble fractions is relatively poorly understood, and the adsorption of proteins is rarely considered. In this work, the formation of protein corona on the surface of insoluble particles during incubation in a culture medium was investigated. It was found that highly abundant proteins in fetal bovine serum were the main components of the protein corona. The adsorbed proteins increased the dispersion stability of insoluble particles. Meanwhile, the leaching concentrations of some metal elements (e.g., Cu, Zn, and Pb) from PM increased in the presence of proteins. The toxicity effects and potential mechanisms of the PM insoluble particle-protein corona complex on macrophage cells RAW264.7 were discussed. The results revealed that the PM insoluble particle-protein corona complex could influence the phagosome pathway in RAW264.7 cells. Thus, it promoted the intracellular reactive oxygen species generation and induced a greater degree of cell differentiation, significantly altering cell morphology. Consequently, this work sheds new light on the combination of insoluble particles and protein corona in terms of PM cytotoxicity assessment.

Complex formation of ML324, the histone demethylase inhibitor, with essential metal ions: Relationship between solution chemistry and anticancer activity

N-(3-(dimethylamino)propyl-4-(8-hydroxyquinolin-6-yl)benzamide (ML324, HL) is a potent inhibitor of the iron-containing histone demethylase KDM4, a recognized potential target of cancer therapeutics. Herein, we report the proton dissociation and complex formation processes of ML324 with essential metal ions such as Fe(II), Fe(III), Cu(II) and Zn(II) using UV-visible, fluorescence, electron paramagnetic resonance and 1H NMR spectroscopic methods. The electrochemical behaviour of the copper and iron complexes was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and spectroelectrochemistry. The solid phase structure of ML324 analysed by X-ray crystallography is also provided. Based on the solution equilibrium data, ML324 is present in solution in H2L+ form with a protonated dimethylammonium moiety at pH 7.4, and this (N,O) donor bearing ligand forms mono and bis complexes with all the studied metal ions and the tris-ligand species is also observed with Fe(III). At pH 7.4 the metal binding ability of ML324 follows the order: Fe(II) < Zn(II) < Cu(II) < Fe(III). Complexation with iron resulted in a negative redox potential (E'1/2 = -145 mV vs. NHE), further suggesting that the ligand has a preference for Fe(III) over Fe(II). ML324 was tested for its anticancer activity in chemosensitive and resistant human cancer cells overexpressing the efflux pump P-glycoprotein. ML324 exerted similar activity in all tested cells (IC50 = 1.9-3.6 μM). Co-incubation and complexation of the compound with Cu(II) and Zn(II) had no impact on the cytotoxicity of ML324, whereas Fe(III) decreased the toxicity in a concentration-dependent manner, and this effect was more pronounced in the multidrug resistant cells.

Dissolution enhancement of Gefitinib by solid dispersion and complexation with β-cyclodextrins: In vitro testing, cytotoxic activity, and tablet formulation

Cancer is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. In patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is often overexpressed. Gefitinib (GEF), an inhibitor of EGFR, is approved for the treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the low solubility and dissolution of GEF limits its bioavailability. Numerous methods, including solid dispersion (SD) and complexation, have been reported to enhance the dissolution of poorly soluble drugs. In this study, GEF complexes were prepared using methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) in two molar ratios (1:1 and 1:2), furthermore, GEF SDs were prepared using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and poloxamer-188(PXM) in three different ratios (1:2, 1:4 and 1:6 w/w). Dissolution studies were conducted on the prepared formulations. Dissolution results showed a 1.22-2.17-fold enhancement in drug dissolution after one hour compared to untreated GEF. Two formulations that showed higher dissolution enhancement were subsequently evaluated for in-vitro cytotoxicity and were formulated into tablets. The selected PVP-GEF (1:4 w/w) and MβCD-GEF (1:1M) formulas displayed improved cytotoxicity compared to untreated GEF. The IC50 values of the PVP-GEF and MβCD-GEF were 4.33 ± 0.66 and 4.84 ± 0.38 µM, respectively which are significantly lower (p < 0.05) than free GEF. In addition, the formulated tablets exhibited enhanced dissolution compared to pure GEF tablets. PVP-GEF SD tablets released (35.1 %±0.4) of GEF after one hour, while GEF-MβCD tablets released (42.2 % ± 0.7) after one hour. In the meantime, tablets containing pure GEF showed only 15 % ± 0.5 release at the same time. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for optimizing the dissolution and hence therapeutic capabilities of GEF while mitigating its limitations.

Unraveling the potential nutritional benefits of fermented date syrup waste: Untargeted metabolomics and carbohydrate metabolites of in vitro digested fraction

Valorization of fruit by-products is a crucial area of research for the development of innovative bio-based products. This study investigated the physicochemical properties and health-promoting benefits of date syrup waste, both fermented by Pichia cecembensis or Pichia kudriavzevii (FDSW), and unfermented (CDSW). Metabolomics profiles of these samples were identified post in vitro digestion. FDSW exhibited 42 volatile compounds, including 9 new ones, and contained (-)-epicatechin, tyrosol, and gallic acid. Bioaccessible fractions of FDSW demonstrated substantial α-amylase inhibition, with percentages of 40.7 % and 53.9 %, respectively. FDSW displayed superior cytotoxicity against Caco2 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines, with an average of ∼75 % and 56 %, respectively. Untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed an increase in secondary metabolites, totaling 27 metabolites. LC-QTOF analysis of bioaccessible carbohydrate metabolites in FDSW identified two phytochemical groups, alkaloids, and terpenoids. This study underscores the potential of FDSW for producing value-added bio-based products with desirable characteristics and health benefits.

Toxicity of particulate emissions from residential biomass combustion: An overview of in vitro studies using cell models

This article aims to critically review the current state of knowledge on in vitro toxicological assessments of particulate emissions from residential biomass heating systems. The review covers various aspects of particulate matter (PM) toxicity, including oxidative stress, inflammation, genotoxicity, and cytotoxicity, all of which have important implications for understanding the development of diseases. Studies in this field have highlighted the different mechanisms that biomass combustion particles activate, which vary depending on the combustion appliances and fuels. In general, particles from conventional combustion appliances are more potent in inducing cytotoxicity, DNA damage, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress than those from modern appliances. The sensitivity of different cell lines to the toxic effects of biomass combustion particles is also influenced by cell type and culture conditions. One of the main challenges in this field is the considerable variation in sampling strategies, sample processing, experimental conditions, assays, and extraction techniques used in biomass burning PM studies. Advanced culture systems, such as co-cultures and air-liquid interface exposures, can provide more accurate insights into the effects of biomass combustion particles compared to simpler submerged monocultures. This review provides critical insights into the complex field of toxicity from residential biomass combustion emissions, underscoring the importance of continued research and standardisation of methodologies to better understand the associated health hazards and to inform targeted interventions.

Airborne environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) in PM2.5 from combustion sources: Abundance, cytotoxicity and potential exposure risks

As an emerging atmospheric pollutant, airborne environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) are formed during many combustion processes and pose various adverse health effects. In health-oriented air pollution control, it is vital to evaluate the health effects of atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from different emission sources. In this study, various types of combustion-derived PM2.5 were collected on filters in a partial-flow dilution tunnel sampling system from three typical emission sources: coal combustion, biomass burning, and automobile exhaust. Substantial concentrations of EPFRs were determined in PM2.5 samples and associated with significant potential exposure risks. Results from in vitro cytotoxicity and oxidative potential assays suggest that EPFRs may cause substantial generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon inhalation exposure to PM2.5 from anthropogenic combustion sources, especially from automobile exhaust. This study provides important evidence for the source- and concentration-dependent health effects of EPFRs in PM2.5 and motivates further assessments to advance public health-oriented PM2.5 emission control.

In vitro toxicity of Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) on Human Renal and Hepatoma Cells

We evaluate the cytotoxicity, intracellular redox conditions, apoptosis, and methylation of DNMTs/TETs upon exposure to LiTFSI, a novel Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) commonly found in lithium-ion batteries, on human renal carcinoma cells (A498) and hepatoma cells (HepG2). The MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay showed both Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) had a dose-dependent effect on A498 and HepG2, with LiTFSI being less toxic. Intracellular redox conditions were assessed with a microplate reader and confocal, which showed a significant decrease in Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels and an increase in Superoxide dismutase (SOD) content in both cells. Exposure to LiTFSI enhanced cell apoptosis, with HepG2 being more susceptible than A498. Quantitative analysis of mRNA expression levels of 19 genes associated with kidney injury, methylation, lipid metabolism and transportation was performed. LiTFSI exposure impacted kidney function by downregulating smooth muscle alpha-actin (Acta2) and upregulating transforming growth factor beta 1 (Tgfb1), B-cell lymphoma 2-like 1) Bcl2l1, hepatitis A virus cellular receptor 1 (Harvcr1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (Nfe2l2), and hairy and enhancer of split 1 (Hes1) expression. LiTFSI exposure also affected the abundance of transcripts associated with DNA methylation by the expression of ten-eleven translocation (TET) and DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) genes. Furthermore, LiTFSI exposure induced an increase in lipid anabolism and alterations in lipid catabolism in HepG2. Our results provide new insight on the potential role of a new contaminant, LiTFSI in the regulation of oxidative stress, apoptosis and methylation in human renal carcinoma and hepatoma cells.

Development of a membrane-disruption assay using phospholipid vesicles as a proxy for the detection of cellular membrane degradation

Snakebite envenoming is a global health issue that affects millions of people worldwide, and that causes morbidity rates surpassing 450,000 individuals annually. Patients suffering from snakebite morbidities may experience permanent disabilities such as pain, blindness and amputations. The (local) tissue damage that causes these life-long morbidities is the result of cell- and tissue-damaging toxins present in the venoms. These compounds belong to a variety of toxin classes and may affect cells in various ways, for example, by affecting the cell membrane. In this study, we have developed a high-throughput in vitro assay that can be used to study membrane disruption caused by snake venoms using phospholipid vesicles from egg yolk as a substrate. Resuspended chicken egg yolk was used to form these vesicles, which were fluorescently stained to allow monitoring of the degradation of egg yolk vesicles on a plate reader. The assay proved to be suitable for studying phospholipid vesicle degradation of crude venoms and was also tested for its applicability for neutralisation studies of varespladib, which is a PLA2 inhibitor. We additionally made an effort to identify the responsible toxins using liquid chromatography, followed by post-column bioassaying and protein identification using high-throughput venomics. We successfully identified various toxins in the venoms of C. rhodostoma and N. mossambica, which are likely to be involved in the observed vesicle-degrading effect. This indicates that the assay can be used for screening the membrane degrading activity of both crude and fractionated venoms as well as for neutralisation studies.

A systematic study of the effect of lipid architecture on cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of cationic cubosomes

HYPOTHESIS

Lipid nanoparticles containing a cationic lipid are increasingly used in drug and gene delivery as they can display improved cellular uptake, enhanced loading for anionic cargo such as siRNA and mRNA or exhibit additional functionality such as cytotoxicity against cancer cells. This research study tests the hypothesis that the molecular structure of the cationic lipid influences the structure of the lipid nanoparticle, the cellular uptake, and the resultant cytotoxicity.

EXPERIMENTS

Three potentially cytotoxic cationic lipids, with systematic variations to the hydrophobic moiety, were designed and synthesised. All the three cationic lipids synthesised contain pharmacophores such as the bicyclic coumarin group (CCA12), the tricyclic etodolac moiety (ETD12), or the large pentacyclic triterpenoid "ursolic" group (U12) conjugated to a quaternary ammonium cationic lipid containing twin C12 chains. The cationic lipids were doped into monoolein cubosomes at a range of concentrations from 0.1 mol% to 5 mol% and the effect of the lipid molecular architecture on the cubosome phase behaviour was assessed using a combination of Small Angle X-Ray Scattering (SAXS), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta-potential and cryo-Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM). The resulting cytotoxicity of these particles against a range of cancerous and non-cancerous cell-lines was assessed, along with their cellular uptake.

FINDINGS

The molecular architecture of the cationic lipid was linked to the internal nanostructure of the resulting cationic cubosomes with a transition to more curved cubic and hexagonal phases generally observed. Cubosomes formed from the cationic lipid CCA12 were found to have improved cellular uptake and significantly higher cytotoxicity than the cationic lipids ETD12 and U12 against the gastric cancer cell-line (AGS) at lipid concentrations ≥ 75 µg/mL. CCA12 cationic cubosomes also displayed reasonable cytotoxicity against the prostate cancer PC-3 cell-line at lipid concentrations ≥ 100 µg/mL. In contrast, 2.5 mol% ETD12 and 2.5 mol% U12 cubosomes were generally non-toxic against both cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines over the entire concentration range tested. The molecular architecture of the cationic lipid was found to influence the cubosome phase behaviour, the cellular uptake and the toxicity although further studies are necessary to determine the exact relationship between structure and cellular uptake across a range of cell lines.

A novel MICA/B-targeted chimeric antigen receptor augments the cytotoxicity of NK cells against tumor cells

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified immune cells have emerged as a promising approach for cancer treatment, but single-target CAR therapy in solid tumors is limited by immune escape caused by tumor antigen heterogeneity and shedding. Natural killer group 2D (NKG2D) is an activating receptor expressed in human NK cells, and its ligands, such as MICA and MICB (MICA/B), are widely expressed in malignant cells and typically absent from healthy tissue. NKG2D plays an important role in anti-tumor immunity, recognizing tumor cells and initiating an anti-tumor response. Therefore, NKG2D-based CAR is a promising CAR candidate. Nevertheless, the shedding of MICA/B hinders the therapeutic efficacy of NKG2D-CARs. Here, we designed a novel CAR by engineering an anti-MICA/B shedding antibody 1D5 into the CAR construct. The engineered NK cells exhibited significantly enhanced cytotoxicity against various MICA/B-expressing tumor cells and were not inhibited by NKG2D antibody or NKG2D-Fc fusion protein, indicating no interference with NKG2D-MICA/B binding. Therefore, the developed 1D5-CAR could be combined with NKG2D-CAR to further improve the obstacles caused by MICA/B shedding.

Particle sizes crucially affected the release of additives from tire wear particles during UV irradiation and mechanical abrasion

In the environment, tire wear particles (TWPs) could release various additives to induce potential risk, while the effects of particle size on the additive release behavior and ecological risk from TWPs remain unknown. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of particle sizes (>2 mm, 0.71-1 mm, and <0.1 mm) on the release behavior of TWPs additives under mechanical abrasion and UV irradiation in water. Compared to mechanical abrasion, UV irradiation significantly increased the level of additives released from TWPs. Especially, the additive releasing characteristics were critically affected by the particle sizes of TWPs, manifested as the higher release in the smaller-size ones. After 60 d of UV irradiation, the concentration of antioxidant N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) reached 10.79 mg/L in the leachate of small-sized TWPs, 2.78 and 5.36 times higher than that of medium-sized and large-sized TWPs. The leachate of the small-sized TWPs also showed higher cytotoxicity. •OH and O2•- were identified as the main reactive oxygen species (ROS), which exhibited higher concentrations and dramatic attack on small-sized TWPs to cause pronounced fragmentation and oxidation, finally inducing the higher release of additives. This paper sheds light on the crucial effects and mechanism of particle sizes in the release behavior of TWPs additives, provides useful information to assess the ecological risk of TWPs.

The ethnopharmacological study of plant drugs used traditionally in Djibouti for malaria treatment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Djibouti was a country where malaria has been endemic for centuries. The local population use the plants as repellents or first aid for uncomplicated malaria.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim was, for the first time, to collect and identify plants used by the local population to treat malaria and select the most interesting plants (those that are more commontly used, more available, and have fewer studies). These plants were evaluated for their antiplasmodial activity as well as their cytotoxicity on human cell lines for the most active ones.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A semi-structured questionnaire was developed for this study to collect information about the use and identity of botanical drugs used to treat malaria. The use-reports (percentage) of each plant were recorded to determine their use importance. Also, the availability status of the plants was assessed; and those in critical condition were discarded excluded from further study. Fifteen plants, out of the 41 listed, were extracted with hydro alcohol, ethyl acetate, and dichloromethane for biological testing. Chloroquine-resistant strain FcB-1 of P. falciparum and a human diploid embryonic lung cell line were used for the antiplasmodial test, and to assess the cytotoxicity for human cells respectively. Preliminary analysis of extract constituents was carried out using thin layer chromatography (TLC).

RESULTS

This study identifies 41 plant taxa belonging to 32 families and records their use against malaria. Balanites rodunfolia, belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family, was the most commonly used plant, representing 44 % of use-reports. It was followed by Cadaba rodunfolia (15 %) from the Capparaceae family, and then the three species of Aloe: Aloe djiboutiensis (8.2 %), Aloe ericahenriettae (3.4 %), and Aloe rigens (3.4 %) from the Asphodelaceae family. The leaves are the most commonly used part of the plants to treat malaria, accounting for 76 % of usage. The preparation methods were decoction (52 %), maceration (29 %), and boiling (19 %). The administration routes were by oral (80 %), inhalation 19 %), and bathing (1 %). The best antiplasmodial activities were observed in the dichloromethane extracts of Cymbopogon commutatus and the ethyl acetate extracts of Aloe rigens and Terminalia brownii, with IC50 values of 9.8, 5, and 7.5 μg/mL, respectively. Their toxicity/activity levels were very favorable with selectivity indices of 5.6, 8.1, and 11.8 for C. commutatus, A. rigens, and T. Brownii, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Forty-one species of botanical drugs were listed as being used to treat malaria in Djibouti. All fifteen selected species showed antiplasmodial activity (IC50 < 50 μg/mL). This work will help guide the valorization of botanical drugs used to treat malaria in Djibouti.

Change characteristics, bacteria host, and spread risks of bioaerosol ARGs/MGEs from different stages in sewage and sludge treatment process

The spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the atmospheric environment has seriously threatened human health. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are an important source of aerosol ARGs. A large WWTP, including sewage treatment process (SWP) and sludge treatment process (SDP), was selected in North China for sampling in this study. The content of ARGs, mobile genetic elements (MGEs), and bacterial genera in sewage/sludge and aerosols from different process stages was detected. The possible correlation between ARGs/ MGEs and bacteria was analyzed. The risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria was evaluated and the diffusion of ARGs/MGEs was simulated. The results showed that the concentration of ARGs/MGEs varied as the process progressed, and which in the aeration tank was relatively high. The ARGs/MGEs content in SWP aerosol (8.35-163.27 copies/m3) was higher than that in SDP (5.52-16.36 copies/m3). The main ARGs/MGEs detected in SWP aerosol were tnpA-05, tnpA-04, and ermF, while the main ARGs/MGEs detected in SDP aerosol were sul1, ermF, and blaPAO. ARGs were positively correlated with most bacteria and Escherichia coli with ARGs carries higher cytotoxicity. ARGs/MGEs mainly diffused towards the southeast, which may cause harm to urban residents with the diffusion of aerosols. This study provides clues and theoretical basis for preventing the hazards of ARGs from WWTP sources.

Airborne ARGs/MGEs from two sewage types during the COVID-21: Population, microbe interactions, cytotoxicity, formation mechanism, and dispersion

During the COVID-2021 epidemic, a large number of antibiotics were used for clinical treatment in hospitals or daily prevention. Sewage from hospital sewage treatment centers (HSTC) and wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) produced a lot of antibiotic-resistance genes/mobile genetic elements (ARGs/MGEs). In this study, the sewage and bioaerosol in the biochemical tank (BT) of an HSTC and a WWTP were sampled throughout the year. The results showed that the average absolute abundance of sewage in BT of WWTP (BTW-W) was higher than sewage in BT of HSTC (BTW-H). Sewage was an important source of microorganisms and ARGs/MGEs in the air of BT. Microorganisms and MGEs were the factors affecting the differences in ARGs/MGEs. Cytotoxicity experiment proved that the cytotoxicity changed from Grade III to Grade IV with the increase in drug-resistant Escherichia coli concentration. According to the formation mechanism formula, the average generation rate of ARGs/MGEs in BT of HSTC was lower than that in WWTP. The diffusion range of ARGs/MGEs of HSTC was larger than that of WWTP. According to the above results, this study found that when people were far away from BT, the health risk of HSTC caused by the diffusion of bioaerosol was higher than WWTP; When people were close to BT, the health risk of WWTP was higher than HSTC due to the aeration of BT. This study provided a basis for public protection of ARGs. In the future, the elimination of airborne ARGs and crowd protection can be further studied in detail.

Diterpenoids from Torreya grandis and their cytotoxic activities

Eight previously undescribed diterpenoids, along with eleven previously reported analogues, were obtained from the supercritical CO2 extracts of Torreya grandis aril. The structures of these compounds were elucidated based on HRESIMS, NMR, ECD, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. In the MTT assay, compound 18 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on two human colon cancer cell lines, HT-29 and HCT 116 cells, with IC50 values of 7.37 μM and 6.55 μM, respectively. It was found that compound 18 induced apoptosis and significantly inhibited the migration of HCT 116 colon cancer cells in a concentration-dependent manner.

Novel Titanocene Y derivative with albumin affinity exhibits improved anticancer activity against platinum resistant cells

The antitumor activity of Ti(IV)-based compounds put them in the spotlight for cancer treatment in the past, but their lack of stability in vivo due to a high rate of hydrolysis has hindered their development as antitumor drugs. As a possible solution for this problem, we have reported a synthesis strategy through which we combined a titanocene fragment, a tridentate ligand, and a long aliphatic chain. This strategy allowed us to generate a titanium compound (Myr-Ti) capable of interacting with albumin, highly stable in water and with cytotoxic activity in tumor cells[1]. Following a similar strategy, now we report the synthesis of a new compound (Myr-TiY) derived from titanocene Y that shows antitumoral activity in a cisplatin resistant model with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 41-76 μM. This new compound shows high stability and a strong interaction with human serum albumin. Myr-TiY has a significant antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect on the tested cancer cells and shows potential tumor selectivity when assayed in non-tumor human epithelial cells being more selective (1.3-3.8 times) for tumor cells than cisplatin. These results lead us to think that the described synthesis strategy could be useful to generate compounds for the treatment of both cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant cancers.

Single-cell ICP-MS for evaluating the Se-protective effect against MeHg+-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y)

The protective effect of selenium (Se) against Hg-induced neurotoxicity has been widely investigated; however, the mechanisms behind this interaction have not been fully elucidated yet. In the current work, the role of Se against MeHg+-induced cytotoxicity in the human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y) is reported for the first time by tracking Hg uptake and accumulation at the single-cell level by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry in single-cell mode (SC-ICP-MS). The influence of different Se species (SeMet, SeMeSeCys, citrate-SeNPs, and chitosan-SeNPs) on MeHg+ cytotoxicity was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. SeMet and SeMeSeCys exhibited protective effects against MeHg+-induced cell death, particularly at high MeHg+ concentrations (LC50). In addition, chitosan-SeNPs showed greater protection compared to citrate-SeNPs when co-exposed with MeHg+. Interestingly, SC-ICP-MS unveiled the heterogeneous distribution of Hg uptake by SH-SY5Y cells. Co-exposure of SeMet and SeMeSeCys with MeHg+ led to a reduction of the amount of Hg accumulated per individual cell, which decreased the maximum level of Hg per cell by half (from 60 fg Hg cell-1 to 30 fg Hg cell-1) when SeMet was present, along with a decrease in the percentage of cells that accumulated the highest quantity of MeHg+. All these data corroborate the protective role of Se against Hg toxicity at the cellular level.

Induction of breast cancer cell apoptosis by novel thiouracil-fused heterocyclic compounds through boosting of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and DFT study

Breast cancer is a common public health disease causing mortality worldwide. Thus, providing novel chemotherapies that tackle breast cancer is of great interest. In this investigation, novel pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives 3,4,(6a-c),(8a,b),9-20 were synthesized and characterized using a variety of spectrum analyses. The geometric and thermal parameters of the novel thiouracil derivatives 3,4,6a,(8a,b),11,12,17,18, 19 were measured using density functional theory (DFT) via DFT/B3LYP/6-31 + G(d,p) basis set. All synthesized compounds were evaluated by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) method using MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancerous cells, compound 17 had the maximum anticancer activity against both breast cancerous cells, recording the lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values (56.712 μg/mL for MCF-7 cells and 48.743 μg/mL for MDA-MB-231 cells). The results were confirmed in terms of the intrinsic mechanism of apoptosis, where compound 17 had the highest percentage in the case of both cancer cells and recorded Bax (Bcl-2 associated X)/Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) ratio 17.5 and 96.667 for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, while compound 19 came after 17 in the ability for induction of apoptosis, where the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was 15.789 and 44.273 for both cancerous cells, respectively. Also, compound 11 recorded a high Bax/Bcl-2 ratio for both cells. The safety of the synthesized compounds was applied on normal WI-38 cells, showing minimum cytotoxic effect with undetectable IC50. Compounds 17, 11, and 19 recorded a significant increase of p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) expression levels in the cancerous cells. The DFT method was also used to establish a connection between the experimentally determined values of the present investigated compounds and their predicted quantum chemical parameters. It was concluded that Compounds 17, 11, and 19 had anti-breast cancer potential through the induction of apoptotic Bax/Bcl-2 and PUMA expression levels.

In vitro digestion and characterization of selenized Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia fermentans and probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Yeasts have the remarkable capability to transform and integrate inorganic selenium into their cellular structures, thereby enhancing its bioavailability and reducing its toxicity. In recent years, yeasts have attracted attention as potential alternative sources of protein.

METHODS

This study explores the selenium accumulation potential of two less explored yeast strains, namely the probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii CCDM 2020 and Pichia fermentas CCDM 2012, in comparison to the extensively studied Saccharomyces cerevisiae CCDM 272. Our investigation encompassed diverse stress conditions. Subsequently, the selenized yeasts were subjected to an INFOGEST gastrointestinal model. The adherence and hydrophobicity were determined with undigested cells RESULTS: Stress conditions had an important role in influencing the quantity and size of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) generated by the tested yeasts. Remarkably, SeMet synthesis was limited to Pichia fermentas CCDM 2012 and S. boulardii CCDM 2020, with S. cerevisiae CCDM 272 not displaying SeMet production at all. Throughout the simulated gastrointestinal digestion, the most substantial release of SeCys2, SeMet, and SeNPs from the selenized yeasts occurred during the intestinal phase. Notably, exception was found in strain CCDM 272, where the majority of particles were released during the oral phase.

CONCLUSION

The utilization of both traditional and non-traditional selenized yeast types, harnessed for their noted functional attributes, holds potential for expanding the range of products available while enhancing their nutritional value and health benefits.

Discovery of indoleninyl-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines as potent chemotherapeutic agents against colorectal cancer cells

A new series of indolenines decorated with pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines were designed and synthesized in up to 96% yield from the acid-catalyzed cyclocondensation of 1,3-dialdehydes with 3-aminopyrazoles. X-ray crystallography on a representative derivative, 5n, revealed two close to planar conformations whereby the N-atom of the pyridyl residue was syn or anti to the pyrrole-N atom in the two independent molecules of the asymmetric unit. The computational and DNA binding data suggest that 5n is a strong DNA intercalator with the results in agreement with its potent cytotoxicity against two colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT 116 and HT-29). In contrast to doxorubicin, compounds 5k-o have higher druggability (compliance to more criteria stated in Lipinski's rule of five and Veber's rule), higher bioavailability, and better medicinal chemistry properties, indicative of their potential application as chemotherapeutical agents.

Evaluating the human neurotoxicity and toxicological interactions impact of co-occurring regulated and emerging mycotoxins

Mycotoxins can inflict harmful effects on diverse organs, and mounting evidence indicates their potential involvement in human neurodegenerative diseases. Given the common occurrence of these toxins in food, there is an increasing demand for a comprehensive assessment of their combined toxicity to enhance our understanding of their potential hazards. This research investigates mycotoxin exposure from widely consumed cereal-based products, including enniatin B (ENNB), sterigmatocystin (STG), aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), cyclopiazonic acid (CPZ), citrinin (CIT), and ochratoxin A (OTA). Employing the median-effect equation based on Chou and Talalay's mass-action law, we assessed their cytotoxicity in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. Notably, ENNB displayed the highest neurotoxicity (IC50 = 3.72 µM), followed by OTA (9.10 µM) and STG (9.99 µM). The combination of OTA + STG exhibited the highest toxicity (IC50 = 3.77 µM), while CPZ + CIT showed the least detrimental effect. Approximately 70 % of tested binary combinations displayed synergistic or additive effects, except for ENNB + STG, ENNB + AFB1, and CPZ + CIT, which showed antagonistic interactions. Intriguingly, the senary combination displayed moderate antagonism at the lowest exposure and moderate synergism at higher doses. OTA exhibited predominantly synergistic interactions, comprising approximately 90 %, a noteworthy finding considering its prevalence in food. Conversely, ENNB interactions tended to be antagonistic. The most remarkable synergy occurred in the STG and CIT combination, enabling a 50-fold reduction in CIT dosage for an equivalent toxic effect. These findings highlight the biological relevance of robust synergistic interactions, emphasizing the need to assess human exposure hazards accurately, particularly considering frequent mycotoxin co-occurrence in environmental and food settings.

Hyaluronic acid-based gels for oral application: Comparison of in vitro effects on gingival cells and bacteria

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of different topical hyaluronic acid-based gels on human gingival fibroblasts and oral bacteria.

Methods

Four different hyaluronate gels - Bexident® Aftas (BA), GUM® AftaClear (AfC), Gengigel®(G), Aloclair® Plus (AlC) and a chlorhexidine gel - Bexident®Gums(BG) were selected. Human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) were seeded in 48-well plates with different gel/culture medium concentrations (v/v%) and cell viability was evaluated at 1 and 3 days of culture. Cell morphology was assessed, and alterations graded according to ISO 10993-5:2009(E). Streptococcus oralis CECT 907T colony was, seed on 48-well plate or spread onto the blood agar plates and exposed to the different gel's concentration. The optical density (OD) was assessed, and the diameter of the inhibition zone was measured (mm).

Results

BA and G elicited reduced HGF cytotoxicity, followed by AfC. AlC and BG were cytotoxic at concentrations up to 3% for all exposure times. PCM images of HGF showed moderate-to-severe alterations for AlC and BG and slight to mild changes, for BA, AfC and G. The highest antibacterial activity against S.oralis was observed on AlC and AfC, and no antibacterial activity was observed for BA and G. Inhibitory effect in sessile colonies was only observed in AlC and BG.

Conclusions

AlC demonstrated superior antibacterial activities against S.oralis but a higher cytotoxic potential in HGF. BA and G presented the lowest cytotoxicity with little to no antibacterial effect. AfC demonstrated bacteriostatic effects and low cytotoxicity on HGF.

Discovery of novel benzimidazole derivatives as potent HDACs inhibitors against leukemia with (Thio)Hydantoin as zinc-binding moiety: Design, synthesis, enzyme inhibition, and cellular mechanistic study

Based on the well-established pharmacophoric features required for histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition, a novel series of easy-to-synthesize benzimidazole-linked (thio)hydantoin derivatives was designed and synthesized as HDAC6 inhibitors. All target compounds potently inhibited HDAC6 at nanomolar levels with compounds 2c, 2d, 4b and 4c (IC50s = 51.84-74.36 nM) being more potent than SAHA reference drug (IC50 = 91.73 nM). Additionally, the most potent derivatives were further assessed for their in vitro cytotoxic activity against two human leukemia cells. Hydantoin derivative 4c was equipotent/superior to SAHA against MOLT-4/CCRF-CEM leukemia cells, respectively and demonstrated safety profile better than that of SAHA against non-cancerous human cells. 4c was also screened against different HDAC isoforms. 4c was superior to SAHA against HDAC1. Cell-based assessment of 4c revealed a significant cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction. Moreover, western blotting analysis showed increased levels of acetylated histone H3, histone H4 and α-tubulin in CCRF-CEM cells. Furthermore, docking study exposed the ability of title compounds to chelate Zn2+ located within HDAC6 active site. As well, in-silico evaluation of physicochemical properties showed that target compounds are promising candidates in terms of pharmacokinetic aspects.

Remediation of phenanthrene by highly efficient CdS-SnS photocatalyst and its cytotoxic assessments

Cadmium sulfide-tin sulfide (CdS-SnS) nanoparticles are a novel kind of photocatalyst. These CdS-SnS nanoparticles are synthesized and characterized using UV-Vis, FT-IR, XRD, SEM-EDX, and DLS techniques, to understand their size distribution, crystalline nature, morphology, shape, optical properties, and elemental composition. This research offers insight into the efficient photocatalytic degradation of Phenanthrene (PHE) using CdS-SnS. The CdS-SnS NPs as photocatalyst can effectively photodegrade the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) such as phenanthrene under simulated solar and UV light. UV-vis spectra of these nanoparticles exhibit peaks at 365 and 546 cm-1 respectively, the mean size of the CdS-SnS NPs in DLS is determined to be 78 nm. The CdS-SnS stretching frequency was observed at wave numbers below 700 cm-1, the absorption peak at 1123 cm-1 indicates the presence of C-N stretch or CS bond of thiourea, while the peak at 1350.38 cm-1 corresponds to the tris-amine C-N stretch in FT-IR. Additionally, the peaks observed at 2026 cm-1 indicate the presence of isothiocyanate (NCS). 1456.23 cm-1 represents the asymmetric scissor deformation vibration. EDAX revealed the presence of elemental Cd and Sn oxides. The antimicrobial studies showed that the CdS-SnS NPs at the concentration of 150 μg/mL, exhibit maximum inhibition (15 ± 1.25 mm) against the strains Proteus mirabilis followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis and Clostridium spp. Among fungal strains Colletotrichum spp. exhibits the maximum zone of inhibition (9 ± 0.25). This research also observed the cytotoxic effects of CdS-SnS NPs on HepG2 and ZF4 cells. HepG2 cells exhibited 50% inhibition at 50 μg/mL and 70% inhibition at 100 μg/mL concentrations, while ZF4 cells exhibited 50% inhibition at 50 μg/mL and 78% inhibition at 100 μg/mL concentrations, respectively. The parameters like concentration of PHE, concentration of CdS-SnS NPs, pH, and sources of irradiation on batch adsorption were examined to maximize the efficiency of the photodegradation process.

In vitro assessment of cytotoxicity of spent fluid catalytic cracking refinery catalysts on cell lines and identification of critical toxic metals

The Purpose of the present study was to quantify the responses of ten cell lines (HeLa, HepG2, HEK293, MDA-MB-231, A498, A549, A357, 3 T3, BALB-C3 T3, and NIH-3 T3) to spent fluid catalytic cracking catalysts (SFCCCs) from different petroleum refineries, and relate these responses to metal concentrations of SFCCC leachates (SFCCCLs). Cytotoxicity of SFCCCs were significantly different depending on cell lines. A357 and 3 T3 cell were the most sensitive, and A498 and HeLa cells were the least sensitive. HEK293 cells showed the least fluctuation in toxic response to different SFCCCLs among all cells. Cytotoxic IC50 values of SFCCCs to 7 kinds of cells were the most correlated with vanadium (V) concentration in SFCCCLs. V is the most critical toxic factor of SFCCC. Glutathione synthesis was induced in HepG2 cells exposed to higher concentrations of SFCCCLs. SFCCCLs with low concentration of V can induce the decrease of GSH/GSSG ratio in HepG2 cells, suggesting that high concentration of V inhibits the detoxification of glutathione.

Simulated gastric leachate of 3D printer metal-fill filaments induces cytotoxic effects in rat and human intestinal models

Metals are used in 3-dimensional (3D) printer filaments in the manufacture of 3D printed objects. Exposure to the filaments, printed objects and emissions from printing may pose health risks from release of toxic metals. This study investigated the cytotoxicity of extruded 3D printer filament leachates in rat and human intestinal cells. Copper-, bronze-, and steel-fill extruded filaments were incubated in acidic media for 2 h. Leachates were adjusted to pH 7 and cells exposed for 4 or 24 h. Concentration- and time-dependent decreases in rat and human cell viability were observed using a colorimetric assay and confirmed by microscopy. Copper- and bronze-fill leachates were more cytotoxic than steel. Copper-fill leachates had the highest copper concentrations by ICP-MS. Exposure to CuSO4 resulted in concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in rat cells. The copper chelator bathocuproine disulphonate alleviated cytotoxicity of CuSO4 and copper-fill leachate, suggesting that copper ions have a role in the cytotoxicity. Hydrogen peroxide increased and glutathione decreased in rat cells exposed to copper-fill leachate, suggesting the formation of reactive oxygen species. Overall, our data indicate that metals released from the acidic exposure of print objects using metal-fill filaments, especially copper, are toxic to rat and human intestinal cells and additional studies are needed.

Steroids from the Meliaceae family and their biological activities

Steroids are farnesyl diphosphate-derived triterpene derivatives widely distributed in Meliaceae plants that can have several health benefits due to their biological activities. This literature survey on chemical and pharmacological studies of steroids from the Meliaceae plants indicates that 157 distinct steroids classified into six subclasses including (in decreasing number): pregnane-, stigmastane-, ergostane-, cholestane-, androstane- and ecdysterone-type steroids have been reported from a total of 49 plant species. This review aims to provide a reference document compiling information about the occurrence, chemistry and biological activities of meliaceous steroids for the period from 1988 to July 2023. In particular, generalities about the chemistry of steroids with unusual skeletons and underlying biosynthetic pathways are highlighted. In addition, some structural relationships between different compound types and their biological activities are presented. The information used during the writing of this paper was collected from the online libraries PubMed, Google Scholar and Scifinder using the keywords steroids and Meliaceae with no language restriction. This review points out new avenues for further investigations of steroids from plants of the Meliaceae family.

Development of novel pyrimidine nucleoside analogs as potential anticancer agents: Synthesis, characterization, and In-vitro evaluation against pancreatic cancer

The present study proposed modification of 5-FU by conjugation with an acyl chloride and a 5-membered heterocyclic ring to improve its in-vitro cytotoxicity and metabolic stability. XYZ-I-71 and XYZ-I-73 were synthesized by introducing a tetrahydrofuran ring on 5-fluorocytosine (a precursor of 5-FU) and conjugation with octanoyl chloride and lauroyl chloride, respectively. The structure of the synthesized compounds was validated using NMR and micro-elemental analysis. The antiproliferative activity of the analogs was determined against MiaPaCa-2, PANC-1, and BxPC-3 pancreatic cancer cells. The analog's stability in human liver microsomes was quantified by HPLC. We found that the XYZ-I-73 (IC50 3.6 ± 0.4 μM) analog was most effective against MiaPaCa-2 cells compared to XYZ-I-71(IC50 12.3 ± 1.7 μM), GemHCl (IC50 24.2 ± 1.3 μM), Irinotecan (IC50 10.1 ± 1.5 μM) and 5-FU (IC50 13.2 ± 1.1 μM). The antiproliferative effects of this analog in Miapaca-2 cells is evident based on it having a 7-fold,3-fold, and 4-fold increased cytotoxic effect over Gem-HCl, Irinotecan, and 5-FU, respectively. On the other hand, XYZ-I-71 exhibited a 2-fold increased cytotoxic effect over Gem-HCl but a comparable cytotoxic effect to 5-FU and Irinotecan in MiaPaCa-2 cells. A similar trend of higher XYZ-I-73 inhibition was observed in PANC-1 and BxPC-3 cultures. For 48-h MiaPaCa-2 cell migration studies, XYZ-I-73 (5 μM) significantly reduced migration (# of migrated cells, 168 ± 2.9), followed by XYZ-I-71(315±2.1), Gem-HCl (762±3.1) and 5-FU (710 ± 3.2). PARP absorbance studies demonstrated significant inhibition of PARP expression of XYZ-I-73 treated cells compared to 5-FU, GemHCl, and XYZ-I-71. Further, BAX and p53 expressions were significantly increased in cells treated with XYZ-I-73 compared to 5-FU, GemHCl, and XYZ-I-71. In-vitro, metabolic stability studies showed that 80 ± 5.9% of XYZ-I-71 and XYZ-I-73 remained intact after 2 h exposure in liver microsomal solution compared to 5-FU. The XYZ-I-73 analog demonstrated a remarkable cytotoxic effect and improved in-vitro metabolic stability over the selected standard drugs and may have potential anticancer activity against pancreatic cancer.

Cytotoxicity sesquiterpenoids from the leaves of Datura stramonium L

Four new sesquiterpenoids, dstramonins A-D (1-4), and one new natural product (5), together with three known compounds (6-8), were isolated from the leaves of Datura stramonium L. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison with the literature. The cytotoxicity of isolates against LN229 cells was assessed and compounds 2-4, and 7 displayed cytotoxic activity with IC50 values ranging from 8.03 to 13.83 μM.

Effect of Ba(II), Eu(III), and U(VI) on rat NRK-52E and human HEK-293 kidney cells in vitro

Heavy metals pose a potential health risk to humans when they enter the organism. Renal excretion is one of the elimination pathways and, therefore, investigations with kidney cells are of particular interest. In the present study, the effects of Ba(II), Eu(III), and U(VI) on rat and human renal cells were investigated in vitro. A combination of microscopic, biochemical, analytical, and spectroscopic methods was used to assess cell viability, cell death mechanisms, and intracellular metal uptake of exposed cells as well as metal speciation in cell culture medium and inside cells. For Eu(III) and U(VI), cytotoxicity and intracellular uptake are positively correlated and depend on concentration and exposure time. An enhanced apoptosis occurs upon Eu(III) exposure whereas U(VI) exposure leads to enhanced apoptosis and (secondary) necrosis. In contrast to that, Ba(II) exhibits no cytotoxic effect at all and its intracellular uptake is time-independently very low. In general, both cell lines give similar results with rat cells being more sensitive than human cells. The dominant binding motifs of Eu(III) in cell culture medium as well as cell suspensions are (organo-) phosphate groups. Additionally, a protein complex is formed in medium at low Eu(III) concentration. In contrast, U(VI) forms a carbonate complex in cell culture medium as well as each one phosphate and carbonate complex in cell suspensions. Using chemical microscopy, Eu(III) was localized in granular, vesicular compartments near the nucleus and the intracellular Eu(III) species equals the one in cell suspensions. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the interactions of Ba(II), Eu(III), and U(VI) on a cellular and molecular level. Since Ba(II) and Eu(III) serve as inactive analogs of the radioactive Ra(II) and Am(III)/Cm(III), the results of this study are also of importance for the health risk assessment of these radionuclides.

Acute exposure to seasonal PM2.5 induces toxicological responses in A549 cells cultured at the air-liquid interface mediated by oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress

Atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) enters the human body through respiration and poses a threat to human health. This is not only dependent on its mass concentration in the atmosphere, but also related to seasonal variations in its chemical components, which makes it important to study the cytotoxicity of PM2.5 in different seasons. Traditional immersion exposure cannot simulate the living environment of human epithelial cells in the human body, making this method unsuitable for evaluating the inhalation toxicity of PM2.5. In this study, a novel air-liquid interface (ALI) particulate matter exposure device (VITROCELL Cloud 12 system) was used to evaluate the toxic effects and potential mechanisms of human lung epithelial cells (A549) after exposure to seasonal PM2.5. PM2.5 samples from four seasons were collected and analyzed for chemical components. After 6 h of exposure to seasonal PM2.5, winter PM2.5 exhibited the highest cytotoxicity among most toxicity indicators, especially apoptosis rate, reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammatory responses and DNA damage (γ-H2AX). The effect of autumn PM2.5 on apoptosis rate was significantly higher than that in spring, and there was no significant difference in other toxicity indicators between spring and autumn. The cytotoxicity of summer PM2.5 was the lowest among the four seasons. It should be noted that even exposure to low doses of summer PM2.5 leads to significant DNA damage in A459 cells. Correlation analysis results showed that water-soluble ions, metallic elements, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were associated with most toxicological endpoints. Inhibitors of oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress significantly inhibited cellular damage, indicating that PM2.5-induced cytotoxicity may be related to the generation of ROS and ER stress. In addition, PM2.5 can induce ER stress through oxidative stress, which ultimately leads to apoptosis.

Fhb7-GST catalyzed glutathionylation effectively detoxifies the trichothecene family

Trichothecene (TCN) contamination in food and feed is a serious challenge due to the negative health and economic impacts. Here, we confirmed that the glutathione S-transferase (GST) Fhb7-GST could broadly catalyze type A, type B and type D TCNs into glutathione epoxide adducts (TCN-13-GSHs). To evaluate the toxicity of TCN-13-GSH adducts, we performed cell proliferation assays in vitro, which demonstrated decreased cytotoxicity of the adducts. Moreover, in vivo assays (repeated-dose treatment in mice) confirmed that TCN-13-GSH adducts were dramatically less toxic than the corresponding TCNs. To establish whether TCN-13-GSH was metabolized back to free toxin during digestion, single-dose metabolic tests were performed in rats; DON-13-GSH was not hydrolyzed in vivo, but rather was quickly metabolized to another low-toxicity compound, DON-13-N-acetylcysteine. These results demonstrate the promise of Fhb7-GST as a candidate of detoxification enzyme potentially applied in TCN-contaminated agricultural samples, minimizing the detrimental effects of the mycotoxin.

New ring-A modified cycloartane triterpenoids from Dysoxylum malabaricum bark: Isolation, structure elucidation and their cytotoxicity

The Genus Dysoxylum (Meliaceae) consists of approximately 80 species that are abundant in structurally diverse triterpenoids. The present study focused on isolating new triterpenoids from the bark of Dysoxylum malabaricum, one of the predominant species of Dysoxylum present in India. The methanol-dichloromethane bark extract was subjected to LCMS profiling followed by silica gel column chromatography and HPLC analysis to target new compounds. Two new ring A-modified cycloartane-type triterpenoids (1 and 2) were isolated from the bark extract. Spectroscopic methods like NMR, HRESIMS data, and electronic circular dichroism calculations elucidated the structuresandabsolute configurations of the isolated compounds. These compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic potential against breast cancer cells and displayed notable cytotoxicity. Compound 1 exhibited the highest cytotoxicity against the MDA-MB-231 cells and induced apoptotic cell death. Also, it was able to inhibit glucose uptake and increase nitric oxide production in breast cancer cells.

Evidence on the genotoxic and ecotoxic effects of PFOA, PFOS and their mixture on human lymphocytes and bacteria

Considering that the PFOA and PFOS are widely spread chemicals with harmful effects in human and environmental health as well as the increasing interest of the scientific community in the implications that might present especially when they co-exist, this study aims to assess their harmful impacts, both individually and as a mixture on human lymphocytes and aquatic microorganisms. The cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay was used to examine their potential for cytotoxicity and genotoxicity towards human cells, and Microtox assay using Aliivibrio fischeri assay was used to estimate the environmental risk. Regarding the human lymphocytes, the tested concentrations ranged between 250 and 1000 μg L-1, for all cases. PFOA increased slightly the frequency of micronuclei (MN) but without statistical significance. In the case of PFOS, our results showed a dose-dependent increase in the frequency of micronuclei which showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) at 1000 μg L-1, which is the highest studied concentration. Regarding the CBPI index, statistically significant (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001 respectively) differences were observed at all studied concentrations of PFOS, compared to the control. The mixture was found to be more cytotoxic and genotoxic than the individual tested compounds, causing a higher decrease at the CBPI index even in lower concentrations and increase at the MN frequencies. Aliivibrio fischeri was exposed to various concentrations in the range of 0.5 μg L-1- 20 mg L-1, for 5 and 15 min and significant increase in the inhibition percentage at the highest tested concentration of their mixture after 15 min was observed.

Assessment of possible biomedical applications of green synthesized TiO2NPs-an in-vitro approach

Biomedical applications for various types of nanoparticles are emerging on a daily basis. Hence this research was performed to evaluate the antifungal (Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., Trichophyton sp., Candida sp., and Penicillium sp.), cytotoxicity (MCF10A cell lines), and antioxidant (DPPH) potential of Coleus aromaticus mediated and pre-characterized TiO2NPs were studied with respective standard methodology. Interestingly, the TiO2NPs exhibited significant antifungal activity on pathogenic fungal strains like Alternaria sp., Aspergillus sp. (31 ± 1.4), Penicillium sp. (31 ± 1.9) Trichophyton sp. (27 ± 2.1), and Candida sp. (26 ± 2.3) at high concentration (250 μg mL-1). However, the considerable levels of zone of inhibitions on fungal pathogens were recorded at 100 μg mL-1 of TiO2NPs as well as it was considerably greater than positive control. It also demonstrated dose based anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities. The plant-mediated TiO2NPs demonstrated a maximum DPPH scavenging efficiency of 91% at a dosage of 250 μg mL-1, comparable to the positive control's 94%. Furthermore, TiO2NPs at 100 μg mL-1 concentration did not cause cytotoxicity in MCF10A cell lines. At higher concentrations (250 μg mL-1), the nanoparticles showed the lowest cytotoxicity (17%). These findings suggest that C. aromaticus-mediated TiO2NPs have significant biomedical applications. However, in-vivo studies are needed to learn more about their (C. aromaticus-mediated TiO2NPs) potential biomedical applications.

Anti-Shigella and antioxidant-based screening of some Cameroonian medicinal plants, UHPLC-LIT-MS/MS fingerprints, and prediction of pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness properties of identified chemicals

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Shigella infection is a public health problem responsible for approximately 700,000 deaths annually. The management of this disease is impaired by the emergence of multidrug-resistant Shigella species, highlighting the urgent need to search for alternative treatment options. In this regard, investigating medicinal plants traditionally used for the treatment of dysentery, diarrheal infections, and/or associated symptoms in endemic regions might provide an opportunity to identify phytochemicals that could be further used as a basis for the development of future anti-shigella drug candidates.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to investigate the anti-shigella and antioxidant-based ethnopharmacological potency of some Cameroonian medicinal plants with an emphasis on pharmacokinetic properties of the identified chemical pharmacophore.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Briefly, plant species were selected and collected based on their ethnopharmacological uses and information reported in the literature. Crude aqueous, ethanolic, methanolic, and hydroethanolic (30:70, v/v) extracts from these plants were prepared and then screened for their anti-Shigella activity against four Shigella strains and cytotoxicity against Vero and Raw cell lines using microdilution and resazurin-based methods, respectively. The antioxidant activities of potent extracts were evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, NO, and FRAP scavenging assays. The chemical profile of potent extracts was performed using the UHPLC-LIT-MS/MS and the pharmacokinetic properties, druglikeness, and likely molecular targets of the chemical scaffolds identified were predicted using SwissADME and SwissTargetPredictor.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine (39) plants belonging to 26 plant families were harvested. Out of the 228 extracts tested, 18 extracts originating from 6 plants (15.38 %) were active (MICs 250-1000 μg/mL) and nontoxic toward Vero (CC50 129.25-684.55 μg/mL) and Raw cell lines (CC50 336.20 to >1000 μg/mL). Six potent extracts from the two plants exhibited moderate to potent DPPH (SC50 8.870-54.410 μg/mL), ABTS (SC50 12.020-27.36 μg/mL), and NO (SC50 0.02-195.85 μg/mL) scavenging activities. Later, these extracts showed interesting ferric iron-reducing power (1.28-12.14 μg equivalent NH2OH/g of extract). The shortest onset of action time (4 and 6 h) observed following inhibition kinetics studies was observed with extracts BFSHE, PMSE, and PMSM. The UHPLC-LIT-MS/MS and some databases (Mass Spectral Library (NIST 14), Human Metabolome Database (HMD), MassBank, SuperNatural 3.0, The Food Database (FooDB), and Chemical Entities of Biological Interest (ChEBI)) allowed the annotation of 18 and 17 metabolites in the extracts from stem bark of P. macrophylla and B. ferruginea respectively. Pharmacokinetic prediction of these chemicals showed that compound 6 (4,6a-bis(Hydroxymethyl)-9a-methyl-3-oxo-1a,1b,3,5,6,6a,7a,9a-octahydrobis (oxireno)[2',3':5,6; 2″,3'':9,10]cyclodeca[1,2-b]furan-5-yl methacrylate), compound 8 (Corynoxeine), and compounds 35 (Stachybotrydial acetate) demonstrated acceptable druglike and pharmacokinetic properties and might act through inhibition of kinase, transferase, protease, oxidoreductase, and family AG protein-linked receptors.

CONCLUSION

The findings from this investigation demonstrated that Cameroonian medicinal plants are suitable reservoirs of anti-Shigella and antioxidant agents with good drug candidate properties.

Hesperidin nanoparticles for prostate cancer therapy: preparation, characterization and cytotoxic activity

Hesperidin, a phytochemical renowned for its therapeutic effects including anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, encounters a significant limitation in its application due to its low bioavailability and restricted solubility in water. To surmount these challenges, we employed a spontaneous emulsification method to produce hesperidin nanoparticles. These nanoparticles, averaging 197.2±2.8 nm, exhibited uniform dispersion (Polydispersity index (PDI): 0.13), a zeta potential (ZP) of -28 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 84.04±1.3%, and demonstrated stable and controlled release across various environments. assessment of the nanoemulsion's stability revealed remarkably high stability levels. Cytotoxicity evaluations (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), Neutral red (NR), Trypan blue (TB), and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)) indicated that cancer cell viability following treatment with hesperidin nanoemulsion was concentration and time-dependent, significantly lower compared to cells treated with free hesperidin. The colony formation assay and cell morphology evaluation further corroborated the heightened efficacy of hesperidin in its nano form compared to the free form. In summary, hesperidin nanoparticles not only exhibited more potent anticancer activity than free hesperidin but also demonstrated high biocompatibility with minimal cytotoxic effects on healthy cells. These findings underscore the potential for further exploration of hesperidin nanoparticles as an adjunctive therapy in prostate cancer therapy. .

Synthesis and biological properties of novel glucose-based macromolecular architectures

The emergence of novel well-defined biological macromolecular architectures containing fluorine moieties displaying superior functionalities can satisfactorily address many biomedical challenges. In this research, ABA- and AB-type glucose-based biological macromolecules were synthesized using acryl-2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-D-glucopyranoside with pentafluorophenyl (FPM), pentafluorobenzyl (FBM), phenyl (PM) and benzyl (BM) methacrylate-based macro-RAFT agents following RAFT polymerization. The macro-RAFT agents and the corresponding copolymers were characterized by 19F, 1H-, and 13C NMR and FTIR spectroscopic techniques to understand the chemical structure, molecular weight by size-exclusion chromatography, thermal analysis by TGA and DSC. Thermal stability (Td5%) of the FPM and FBM fluoro-based polymers was observed in the range of 219-267 °C, while the non-fluoro PM and BM polymers exhibited in the range of 216-264 °C. Among the macro-RAFT agents, PFPM (107 °C, ΔH: 0.613 J/g) and PPM (103 °C, ΔH: 0.455 J/g) showed higher Tm values, while among the block copolymers, PFBM-b-PG (123 °C, ΔH: 0.412 J/g) and PG-b-PFPM-b-PG (126 °C, ΔH: 0.525 J/g) exhibited higher Tm values. PFBMT and PPM macro-RAFT agents, PPM-b-PG and PG-b-PPM-b-PG copolymer spin-coated films showed the highest hydrophobicity (120°) among the synthesized polymers. The block copolymers exhibited self-assembled segregation by using relatively hydrophobic segments as the core and hydrophilic moieties as the corona. Synthesized biological macromolecules exhibit maximum antibacterial activity towards S. aureus than E. coli bacteria. Fluorophenyl (PFPM) and non-fluorobenzyl-based (PBMT) macro-RAFT agents exhibit low IC50 values, suggesting high cytotoxicity. All the triblock copolymers exhibit lesser cytotoxicity than the di-block polymers.

Comparison of the Secondary Metabolism of the Basidiomycetes Armillaria mellea and Desarmillaria ectypa

During the course of our ongoing studies on the secondary metabolism of cultures of Basidiomycota, a new meroterpenoid named 10, 15-dihydroxydihydromelleolide (1) was isolated along with the known armillaridin (2) and arnamiol (3) from cultures of the rare saprotrophic species, Desarmillaria ectypa. These are the first secondary metabolites that were ever isolated from the latter species. A concurrently studied strain of the common pathogenic A. mellea yielded other melleolides, with 5'-O-methylmelledonal (4), melledonal C (5), 10 α-hydroxydihydromelleolide (6) and melledonal (7). The chemical structures were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS). All compounds were studied for their antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects against a panel of microbes and mammalian cell lines, and the results are also reported.

Broken but not beaten: Challenge of reducing the amyloids pathogenicity by degradation

BACKGROUND

The accumulation of ordered protein aggregates, amyloid fibrils, accompanies various neurodegenerative diseases (such as Parkinson's, Huntington's, Alzheimer's, etc.) and causes a wide range of systemic and local amyloidoses (such as insulin, hemodialysis amyloidosis, etc.). Such pathologies are usually diagnosed when the disease is already irreversible and a large amount of amyloid plaques have accumulated. In recent years, new drugs aimed at reducing amyloid levels have been actively developed. However, although clinical trials have demonstrated a reduction in amyloid plaque size with these drugs, their effect on disease progression has been controversial and associated with significant side effects, the reasons of which are not fully understood.

AIM OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to summarize extensive array of data on the effect of exogenous and endogenous factors (physico-mechanical effects, chemical effects of low molecular weight compounds, macromolecules and their complexes) on the structure and pathogenicity of mature amyloids for proposing future directions of the development of effective and safe anti-amyloid therapeutics.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Our analysis show that destruction of amyloids is in most cases incomplete and degradation products often retain the properties of amyloids (including high and sometimes higher than fibrils, cytotoxicity), accelerate amyloidogenesis and promote the propagation of amyloids between cells. Probably, the appearance of protein aggregates, polymorphic in structure and properties (such as amorphous aggregates, fibril fragments, amyloid oligomers, etc.), formed because of uncontrolled degradation of amyloids, may be one of the reasons for the ambiguous effectiveness and serious side effects of the anti-amyloid drugs. This means that all medications that are supposed to be used both for degradation and slow down the fibrillogenesis must first be tested on mature fibrils: the mechanism of drug action and cytotoxic, seeding, and infectious activity of the degradation products must be analyzed.

Vitamin D triggers hCAP18/LL-37 production: Implications for LL-37-induced human osteoblast cytotoxicity

The human cathelicidin LL-37 shows activity against microorganisms, but it is also cytotoxic to host cells. The CAMP gene codes for the LL-37 precursor hCAP18 which is processed extracellularly to active LL-37. It has previously been shown that vitamin D stimulates CAMP gene activity, but less information is available demonstrating that vitamin D also can increase hCAP18/LL-37 protein production. Here, we show with RT-qPCR that a physiological concentration of vitamin D (50 nM) enhances CAMP mRNA levels by about 170 times in human THP-1 monocyte cells. Stimulation with 50 nM vitamin D increases hCAP18/LL-37 protein contents 3-4 times in THP-1 cell lysates demonstrated by both dot blot analysis and ELISA applying two different hCAP18/LL-37 antibodies. Treatment with the proteasome inhibitor MG132 enhances hCAP18/LL-37 levels, suggesting that turnover of hCAP18/LL-37 protein is regulated by the proteasome. The hCAP18/LL-37 concentration in vitamin D-stimulated THP-1 cells corresponds to 1.04 μM LL-37. Interestingly, synthetic LL-37, at this concentration, reduces viability of human osteoblast-like MG63 cells, whereas the THP-1 cells are less sensitive as demonstrated by the MTT assay. In summary, we show that vitamin D enhances hCAP18/LL-37 production, and that this effect can be of physiological/pathophysiological relevance for LL-37-induced human osteoblast toxicity.

Amanitin-induced variable cytotoxicity in various cell lines is mediated by the different expression levels of OATP1B3

Amanita phalloides is one of the deadliest mushrooms worldwide, causing most fatal cases of mushroom poisoning. Among the poisonous substances of Amanita phalloides, amanitins are the most lethal toxins to humans. Currently, there are no specific antidotes available for managing amanitin poisoning and treatments are lack of efficacy. Amanitin mainly causes severe injuries to specific organs, such as the liver, stomach, and kidney, whereas the lung, heart, and brain are hardly affected. However, the molecular mechanism of this phenomenon remains not understood. To explore the possible mechanism of organ specificity of amanitin-induced toxicity, eight human cell lines derived from different organs were exposed to α, β, and γ-amanitin at concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 100 μM. We found that the cytotoxicity of amanitin differs greatly in various cell lines, among which liver-derived HepG2, stomach-derived BGC-823, and kidney-derived HEK-293 cells are most sensitive. Further mechanistic study revealed that the variable cytotoxicity is mainly dependent on the different expression levels of the organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3 (OATP1B3), which facilitates the internalization of amanitin into cells. Besides, knockdown of OATP1B3 in HepG2 cells prevented α-amanitin-induced cytotoxicity. These results indicated that OATP1B3 may be a crucial therapeutic target against amanitin-induced organ failure.

CD8 T cell-derived perforin regulates macrophage-mediated inflammation in a murine model of gout

OBJECTIVES

Gout is characterized by hyperuricemia and recurrent inflammatory episodes caused by intra-articular crystal deposition of monosodium urate (MSU). There is a clear relationship between gout and metabolic syndrome. Recent evidence indicates that perforin plays a role in regulating glucose homeostasis and provides protection in diet-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis models. However, the impact of perforin on immune inflammation in gout remains unclear.

METHODS

We induced acute gout models in both wild-type (WT) mice and Prf1null mice by administering intra-articular injections of MSU crystals. We compared the ankle joint swelling and the histological score between the two groups. Furthermore, we investigated underlying mechanisms through in vitro co-culture experiments involving CD8 T cells and macrophages.

RESULTS

In this study, Prf1null mice showed significantly more pronounced ankle swelling with increased inflammatory cell infiltrations compared with WT mice 24 h after local MSU injection. Moreover, MSU-induced Prf1null mice exhibited increased accumulation of CD8 T cells but not NK cells. Perforin-deficient CD8 T cells displayed reduced cytotoxicity towards bone marrow-derived M0 and M1 macrophages and promoted TNF-α secretion from macrophage.

CONCLUSIONS

Perforin from CD8 T cells limits joint inflammation in mice with acute gout by downregulating macrophage-mediated inflammation. Key Points • Perforin deficiency increased swelling in the ankle joints of mice upon MSU injection. • Perforin deficiency is associated with increased immune cell recruitment and severe joint damage in gout. • Perforin regulated CD8 T cell accumulation in gout and promoted CD8 T cell cytotoxicity towards M0 and M1 macrophages. • CD8 T cell-derived perforin regulated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion of macrophage.

Comparative in vitro toxicological effects of water-soluble and insoluble components of atmospheric PM2.5 on human lung cells

Fine particulates in city air significantly impact human health, but the hazardous compositional mechanisms are still unclear. Besides the toxicity of environmental PM2.5 to in vitro human lung epithelial cells (A549), the independent cytotoxicity of PM2.5-bound water-soluble (WS-PM2.5) and water-insoluble (WIS-PM2.5) fractions were also compared by cell viability, oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species, ROS), and inflammatory injury (IL-6 and TNF-α). The cytotoxicity of PM2.5 varied significantly by sampling season and place, with degrees greater in winter and spring than in summer and autumn, related to corresponding trend of air PM2.5 level, and also higher in industrial than urban site, although their PM2.5 pollution levels were comparable. The PM2.5 bound metals (Ni, Cr, Fe, and Mn) may contribute to cellular injury. Both WS-PM2.5 and WIS-PM2.5 posed significant cytotoxicity, that WS-PM2.5 was more harmful than WIS-PM2.5 in terms of decreasing cell viability and increasing inflammatory cytokines production. In particular, industrial samples were usually more toxic than urban samples, and those from summer were generally less toxic than other seasons. Hence, in order to mitigate the health risks of PM2.5 pollution, the crucial targets might be components of heavy metals and soluble fractions, and sources in industrial areas, especially during the cold seasons.

Cytotoxic, acute oral toxicity, genotoxic and mutagenic assessment of the essential oil from fresh leaves of Croton argyrophyllus (Kunth.)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Croton argyrophyllus Kunth., commonly known as "marmeleiro" or "cassetinga," is widely distributed in the Brazilian Northeast region. Its leaves and flowers are used in traditional medicine as tranquilizers to treat flu and headaches.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted to determine the chemical composition and toxicological safety of essential oil from C. argyrophyllus leaves using in vitro and in vivo models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical composition of the essential oil was determined using a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer. Cytotoxicity was tested in the HeLa, HT-29, and MCF-7 cell lines derived from human cells (Homo sapiens) and Vero cell lines derived from monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) using the MTT method. Acute toxicity, genotoxicity. Mutagenicity tests were performed in Swiss mice (Mus musculus), which were administered essential oil orally in a single dose of 2000 mg/kg by gavage.

RESULTS

The main components of the essential oil were p-mentha-2-en-1-ol, α-terpineol, β-caryophyllene, and β-elemene. The essential oil exhibited more than 90% cytotoxicity in all cell lines tested. No deaths or behavioral, hematological, or biochemical changes were observed in mice, revealing no acute toxicity. In genotoxic and mutagenic analyses, there was no increase in micronuclei in polychromatic erythrocytes or in the damage and index in the comet assay.

CONCLUSIONS

The essential oil was cytotoxic towards the tested cell lines but did not exert toxic effects or promote DNA damage when administered orally at a single dose of 2000 mg/kg in mice.

The drug loading capacity prediction and cytotoxicity analysis of metal-organic frameworks using stacking algorithms of machine learning

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown excellent performance in the field of drug delivery. Despite the synthesis of a vast array of MOFs exceeding 100,000 varieties, certain formulations have exhibited suboptimal performance characteristics. Therefore, there is a pressing need to enhance their efficacy by identifying MOFs with superior drug loading capacities and minimal cytotoxicity, which can be achieved through machine learning (ML). In this study, a stacking regression model was developed to predict drug loading capacity and cytotoxicity of MOFs using datasets compiled from various literature sources. The model exhibited exceptional predictive capabilities, achieving R2 values of 0.907 for drug loading capacity and 0.856 for cytotoxicity. Furthermore, various model interpretation methods including partial dependence plots, individual conditional expectation, Shapley additive explanation, decision tree, random forest, CatBoost Regressor, and light gradient-boosting machine were employed for feature importance analysis. The results revealed that specific metal atoms such as Zn, Cr, Fe, Zr, and Cu significantly influenced the drug loading capacity and cytotoxicity of MOFs. Through model validation encompassing experimental validation and computational verification, the reliability of the model was thoroughly established. In general, it is a good practice to use ML methods for predicting drug loading capacity and cytotoxicity analysis of MOFs, guiding the development of future property prediction methods for MOFs.

Cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory effect, and acute oral toxicity of a novel Attalea phalerata kernel oil-loaded nanocapsules

The kernel oil of the Attalea phalerata Mart. Ex Spreng (Acurí) is traditionally used in several Latin American countries to treat respiratory problems, inflammation, and fever. However, it cannot be found on the literature any attend to use this oil in pharmaceutical formulation. In this paper, it was developed Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules, and it was evaluated the cytotoxicity against cancer cells, the antinflammatory activity and the oral acute toxicity in rats. Acurí oil contains lauric acid as the predominant saturated fatty acid (433.26 mg/g) and oleic acid as the main unsaturated fatty acid (180.06 mg/g). The Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules showed a size of 237 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.260, and a high ζ-potential of -78.75 mV. It was obtained an encapsulation efficiency of 88.77%, and the nanocapsules remain stable on the shelf for 180 days. The nanocapsules showed a rapid release profile (98.25% in 40 minutes). Nanocapsules at a dose of 10 mg/kg exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect similar to indomethacin at the same dose. The nanocapsules showed excellent antiproliferative effect and selectivity index against prostate tumor cells (IC50 2.09 µg/mL, SI=119.61) and kidney tumor cells (IC50 3.03 µg/mL, SI=82.50). Both Acurí oil and Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules are nontoxic at a dose of 2000 mg/kg. Additionally, they reduce serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels in rat and could find application in nutraceutical formulations. The Acurí oil-loaded nanocapsules emerge as a promising candidate for new antitumor therapies.