Analysis of the binding mechanism for a water-soluble Pd(II) complex containing β-amino alcohols with HSA applying experimental and computational methods

In the study ahead, the binding interactions of the [Pd (HEAC) Cl2] complex with human serum albumin (HSA) protein have been assayed in vitro (pH= 7.40) utilizing computational and experimental procedures. The mentioned complex was synthesized as a water-soluble complex from {2-((2-((2-hydroxyethyl)amino)ethyl)amino) cyclohexanol} ligand = HEAC. The results of electronic absorption and circular dichroism investigations illustrated that the hydrophobicity of the Tryptophan microenvironment in HSA undergoes the changes by binding to the Pd(II) complex without substantial perturbations on the protein secondary structure. The fluorescence emission spectroscopy analysis revealed that with rising temperature, the quenching constant (Ksv) in the Stern-Volmer's relation decreases; so, it can be said that the interaction process is along with a static quenching mechanism. The values of 2.88 × 105 M-1, and 1.26 represent the binding constant (Kb) and the number of the binding sites (n), respectively. The Job graph showed the maximum point at χ = 0.5, which means organizing a new set with 1:1 stoichiometry. Thermodynamic profile (ΔH < 0, ΔS < 0, and ΔG < 0) has affirmed that van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds have a basic function in the Pd(II) complex-albumin bindings. The ligand-competitive displacement studies utilizing warfarin and ibuprofen have represented that Pd(II) complex interacts with albumin by site II (subdomain IIIA). The computational molecular docking theory approved the results of the site-competitive tests; also, it indicated the existence of hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces in Pd(II) complex-albumin interactions.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Molecular interaction of antiviral drug penciclovir with DNA and HSA insights from experimental and docking studies

One approach to accelerate the availability of new cancer drugs is to test drugs approved for other conditions as anticancer agents. During recent decades, penciclovir (PNV) has been frequently utilized as a potent antiviral drug, in particular against infections caused by herpes viruses. Many antivirals interact with DNA and change their expression level, so determining the binding mode is of great importance. In our laboratory, we have focused our attention to design improved drugs that target cellular DNA, to understand the mechanism of action at the molecular level, and also to investigate the effect of antiviral drugs as anticancer agents. The results of ct-DNA-PNV interactions at physiological pH using fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, and molecular modeling reveal this drug binds well to ct-DNA through groove binding. The circular dichroism measurements displayed that PNV caused a slight change in the DNA structure which affirmed that the binding of PNV with the DNA occurs through the groove mode. Besides, multi-spectroscopic and molecular docking were used to evaluate how PNV interacts with human serum albumin under physiological conditions. The findings of fluorescence quenching suggested that static quenching was involved in the spontaneous development of HSA-PNV complex through hydrophobic force. The docking simulation results validated the findings of spectroscopic techniques.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Spectroscopic and molecular docking investigation on the interaction of a water-soluble Cu(II) complex containing diethanolamine and dipicolinic acid ligands with human serum albumin

Under physiological conditions, spectroscopic techniques as well as molecular docking simulation have been used to investigate the binding interaction mechanism between Cu(II) complex containing Pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid (PDCA) and Diethanolamine (DEA) ligands, [Cu(DEA)(PDCA)] and human serum albumin (HSA). UV spectral changes of protein in the presence of the Cu(II) complex suggested the formation of a Protein-Cu(II) complex conjugate with specific new structure. The Cu(II) complex quenches the intrinsic fluorescence of the HSA via a static mechanism in which van der Waals interactions along with hydrogen bonds are fundamental binding forces. Displacement experiments performed by warfarin and ibuprofen site probes predict that the Cu(II) complex is located in subdomain IIA, Sudlow site 1 of HSA. Molecular docking results showed close resemblance with experimental data.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

A binuclear Cu(I)-phosphine complex as a specific HSA site I binder: synthesis, X-ray structure determination, and a comprehensive HSA interaction analysis

In this research, we present a method for synthesis and a detailed description of geometry characterization of a novel binuclear Cu(I) phosphine complex, along with analysis of its interaction with HSA using spectroscopic and simulation methods. The Cu atoms are coordinated in a tetrahedral geometry, which results in coordination by two nitrogen atoms from the N,N'-(ethane-1,2-diyl)bis(1-(pyridin-2-yl)methanimine ligand (L), a chloride, and a PPh3. The complex binding constant to HSA in a biochemical environment was determined to be ∼106, which is indicative of a strong interaction. The fluorescence of HSA is significantly quenched by binding to the complex via a static mechanism, whereas the microenvironment of the tryptophan residue remains unchanged. A spontaneous binding process was indicated by a negative value for ΔG. Thermodynamic signatures reflect the dominance of hydrophobic forces during the interaction. The site marker competitive experiment combined with docking simulation analysis revealed the closeness position of the complex binding site to warfarin location in specific ligand site I of HSA. The information generated in the present study would be valuable to understand the interaction mechanistic and pharmacological behavior of Cu(I) complexes.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Evaluation of DNA damage induced by acesulfame potassium: spectroscopic, molecular modeling simulations and toxicity studies

Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) is a widely used artificial sweetener that has been reported to interact with DNA and cause important genetic damage. However, the type of interaction mechanism is unknown. This study provides an approach to understanding the in vitro mechanism of Ace-K interaction with Ct-DNA using spectroscopic methods combined with molecular simulations. The hypochromic effect as obtained from UV-Vis spectra indicated the formation of the DNA-Ace-K complex in the minor groove. Further evidence for groove binding mode comes from the decrease in Hoechst-DNA fluorescence caused by increasing Ace-K concentrations, alongside no detectable change in MB-DNA emission band intensity. A negative value of ΔH and ΔS represents the hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces between Ace-K and DNA. Based on the molecular docking, Ace-K was located between the guanine10 and 16 in DNA minor groove and stabilized by two hydrogen bonds and one π-Sulfur interaction. In vitro cell culture results showed that about 5 mg/mL of Ace-K caused the death of 85% of HUVEC cells after 48 h. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

DNA interaction studies of a cobalt(III) complex containing β-amino alcohol ligand by spectroscopic and molecular docking methods

In the present research, the feasibility of a Cobalt(III) complex containing β-amino alcohol ligands for affinity with the target calf thymus DNA is demonstrated. In the title complex, [Co(C11H15N2O2)2]Cl, the Co(III) atom is six-coordinated with four N atoms and two O atoms from (2-[(E)-({2-[(2-Hydroxyethyl) amino]ethyl}imino)methyl]phenol) ligand (L). To investigate the molecular interaction between the synthesized complex and DNA, some multi-spectroscopic approaches associated with molecular docking were employed in the physiological buffer (pH 7.4). The results indicated that the Co(III) complex proved to be a minor groove binder with a preference for the A-T region, which was substantiated by displacement studies with Hoechst33258 and Methylene blue (MB) as minor groove binder and intercalator. In addition, the results of the molecular docking study revealed that the Co(III) complex approached the gap between the DNA minor grooves near the spot where the Hoechst was. Furthermore, the results of the cytotoxicity and apoptosis tests for the MCF-7 cell line were also indicative of the positive effects of the complex on controlling the growth and viability of breast cancer.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

A high-efficiency decomposition method for mono and dimethylmercury induced by low-energy electron attachment (<≈7 eV): A computational insight into the decomposition mechanism of extremely toxic mercury compounds

Dimethylmercury (DMM) and monomethylmercury (MMM) are extremely toxic and dangerous environmental contaminants. Unfortunately, there is no effective way to remove these substances from the environment. This study looks into the efficient decomposition of DMM and MMM by low-energy electrons. The calculated quantum scattering properties reveal the presence of metastable electronic states in both molecules. An examination of the spatial features of the electronic resonances, as well as the computation and characterization of the vibrational normal modes, suggests possible bond break pathways of the metastable electronic states. Most electronic resonances result in the release of Hg(0), which is easily transported to the gas phase due to its low solubility in water and high volatility.

High selective gas-phase rearrangement reaction of TCDD induced by excess electron attachment: Theoretical insight on the decomposition mechanism of one of the most toxic chemical known to science

Dioxins are highly toxic chemicals with serious health risks, for which there is no safe level of exposure. Because of the slow decomposition of dioxins, the removal of these persistent environmental pollutants still remains a challenge. Based on theoretical studies, the present work investigates the degradation mechanism of the most toxic type of dioxin-related compounds by low-energy electron irradiation. To explore the rearrangement manner of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) induced by excess electron attachment, the B3LYP-D3(BJ)/def2-TZVP//B3LYP-D3(BJ)/6-311++G(d,p) level of density functional theory was applied. Electron attachment resulted in a remarkable decrease in the activation barrier of the rearrangement reaction in a thermodynamically preferred reaction. An activation energy as low as 6.6 kcal/mol provides a strong demonstration that this pathway is the most effective in comparison to the neutral or radical rearrangement mechanisms. The attachment of electrons in the above energy range to C-Cl σ∗orbital is more likely than attachment to the LUMO of TCDD with π∗ orbital character. This σ∗ anion then undergoes a C-O σ bond rupture over a small barrier to produce a relatively stable intermediate, n-IM. The formed n-IM is again reactive toward a subsequent C-O bond rupture along with an intramolecular C-C coupling to produce the products, (E)-4,4',5,5'-tetrachloro-[1,1'-bi(cyclohexylidene)]-3,3',5,5'-tetraene-2,2'-dione and (Z)-4,4',5,5'-tetrachloro-[1,1'-bi(cyclohexylidene)]-3,3',5,5'-tetraene-2,2'-dione. The thermodynamic driving force for the anionic mechanism ensures the formation of the products to be irreversible enough to be purified. The purified products, with their active carbonyl groups, can react in many different ways with a wide range of nucleophile compounds.

Antimicrobial, cytotoxicity, molecular modeling and DNA cleavage/binding studies of zinc-naproxen complex: switching DNA binding mode of naproxen by coordination to zinc ion

The intercalation DNA binding mode of the naproxen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been reported previously. In this study, calf thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (CT-DNA) binding of zinc-naproxen complex, [Zn(naproxen)₂(MeOH)₂], at physiological pH has been investigated by multi-spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking. Zinc-naproxen complex displays significant binding property to the CT-DNA (K_b = 0.2 × 10⁵ L.mol^-1). All of the experimental results; relative increasing in viscosity of CT-DNA and fluorimetric studies using ethidium bromide (EB) and Hoechst 33258 probes, are indicative of groove binding mode of zinc-naproxen complex to CT-DNA. These results show that the coordination of naproxen to zinc metal switches the mode of binding from intercalation to groove. The molecular modeling also shows that the complex binds to the AT-rich region of minor groove of DNA. Structural and topography changes of DNA in interaction with the complex by atomic force microscopy (AFM) indicated that CT-DNA becomes swollen after interaction. The pUC18 plasmid DNA cleavage ability of zinc-naproxen complex by gel electrophoresis experiments revealed that zinc-naproxen complex cleaved supercoiled pUC18 plasmid DNA to nicked DNA. The cytotoxicity of the zinc complex performed by MTT method on HT29 and MCF7 cancer cell lines and on HEK 293 normal cell lines indicates that zinc complex has no cytotoxic effect on both HT29 and MCF7 cell lines but has better cytotoxicity effect on HEK 293 cell lines compared to cisplatin standard drug. The antimicrobial activity of the complex against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria revealed the high antimicrobial activity of the complex.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Equilibrium and site selective analysis for DNA threading intercalation of a new phosphine copper(I) complex: Insights from X-ray analysis, spectroscopic and molecular modeling studies

To clarify the interaction of phosphine copper(I) complex with DNA, our study reports the synthesis of a new phosphine copper(I) complex, along with a detailed analysis of the geometry characterization and its interaction with double-stranded DNA. The triclinic phase Cu(PPh₃)₂(L)(I) with a tetrahedral geometry was identified as the product of the reaction of copper(I) iodide with (E,E)-N,N'-1,2-Ethanediylbis[1-(3-pyridinyl)methanimine] ligand and triphenylphosphine by single-crystal X-ray analysis. Molecular interaction of the synthesized complex with the calf thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (ct-DNA) was investigated in the physiological buffer (pH 7.4) by multi-spectroscopic approaches associated with a competitive displacement towards Hoechst 33258 and methylene blue (MB) as groove and intercalator probes. The fluorescence and UV/Vis results detected the formation of a complex-DNA adduct in the ground-state with a binding affinity in order of 10⁴ M^-1, which is in keeping with both groove binders and intercalators. The thermodynamic parameters, ΔS⁰ = -200.31 ± 0.08 cal/mol·K and ΔH⁰ = -63.11 ± 0.24 kcal/mol, confirmed that the van der Waals interaction is the main driving force for the binding process. Moreover, the ionic strength and pH effect experiments demonstrated the electrostatic interactions between the complex and DNA is negligible. Analysis of the molecular docking simulation declared the flat (E,E)-N,N'-1,2-Ethanediylbis[1-(3-pyridinyl)methanimine] part of the complex was inserted between the sequential A…T/A…T base pairs, while the phosphine substituents were located in the groove, i.e. threading intercalation. Besides, the cytotoxicity of the complex against the MCF-7 human breast cancer cells was detected at IC50 = 10 μg/mL.

Direct effects of low-energy electrons on including sulfur bonds in proteins: a second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation (MP2) theory approach

In an attempt to describe how low-energy electrons (LEEs) damage the polypeptide chain at disulfide bridges, ab initio electronic structure estimates on LEE interactions with cysteine-cysteine (Cys-Cys) disulfide bond model have been performed. Here, the fundamental mechanisms in LEE impression on S-S and C-S bond ruptures in the Cys-Cys model have been discussed. The electronic energy was calculated using the MP2 method with a Hartree-Fock exchange during the SCF and the Møller-Plesset correlation energy correction on the converged HF orbitals with 6-311++G(d,p) atomic orbital basis set. Further, six more sets of diffuse s and p functions with extra basis on the sulfur and relevant carbon atoms were used to describe the added electron to located away as much as possible from the nuclei in anions. The bonds rupture mechanisms involve the primary placement of LEEs to the π* orbital of the model to construct the shape-resonance state following by an adiabatic or nonadiabatic electron migration to either S-S or C-S bond σ* orbital. The formed radical anion undergoes S-S or C-S bonds cleavage by energy barriers of ca. 5.68 and 9.19 kcal/mol, respectively, to produce either (2-amino-2-carboxyethyl) sulfanyl (cysteine radical), aziridine-2-carboxylic acid or mercapto-L-cysteine lesions. In SMD solvent, calculations suggest electronically stable of the formed π* and σ* states by solvation, something that induces either S-S or C-S bond break even when the electron energy is near zero. The required barrier energy of only 0 to < 0.4 eV indicates a high kinetic favorable fragmentation for involved sulfur polypeptides with LEEs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Theoretical mechanistic insight into the gabapentin lactamization by an intramolecular attack: Degradation model and stabilization factors

PURPOSE

Gabapentin is degraded directly into a high toxicity form known as gabapentin lactam (gaba-L) with a maximizing desire in mild pH and low humidity. This study reports the lactamization process of gabapentin, along with a detailed analysis of the energy landscape, geometry, and thermodynamic and kinetic preference of the process. To investigate the effect of the acidic/basic conditions on the energy landscape, the energy profiles were investigated for both protonation and deprotonation forms of gabapentin.

METHODS

All the calculations were performed by using the density functional theory (DFT) and the G4MP2 levels of theory in the conductor-like polarizable continuum model, CPCM, and water as the solvent.

RESULTS

The lactamization process is an intramolecular cyclization which results in formation of gabapentin-lactam. The chemically intact gabapentin exists in two forms of a stable, R, and a relatively disordered form, R*. The conversion of stable crystalline form R to the intact unstable isomer R* is considered as the primary step in the gabapentin degradation. The results exhibited that near the unstable geometry, R*, a transition state (TS), is 41.3 kcal/mol higher in energy than the optimized ground state, R* (4.1 kcal/mol). From the intrinsic reaction coordinates (IRC) computations, it can be concluded that this transition state led to the unstable R* in one direction and to gabapentin-lactam in the other.

CONCLUSIONS

The thermodynamic stability of the lactam form (-13.63 kcal/mol) clarifies the more thermal stability of gaba-L than its related gabapentin form and the experimental preference for the lactamization. The corresponding energy profile on protonation/deprotonation forms of gabapentin indicates the pH-dependent of the process and the rate reduction in out of the mild pH.

Studies on the interaction of antibiotic drug rifampin with DNA and influence of bivalent metal ions on binding affinity

In this paper, the interaction between rifampin, a known antibiotic used against tuberculosis, and DNA helix is investigated by applying multiple biophysical and molecular modelling approaches in an aqueous solution at pH 7.4 and 5. It was proved that the fluorescence quenching of labeled probe DNA by rifampin is a result of the complex formation of rifampin in groove of DNA. Binding parameters were calculated using the logarithmic Hill equation to provide a quantitative term of the binding affinity between rifampin and DNA sites. The resulting ΔH⁰ = -122.76 ± 0.07 kJ/mol and ΔS⁰ = -308.19 ± 238.78 J/mol K confirms the role of the Van der Waals' forces and hydrogen bonding in the rifampin-DNA complexation. Furthermore, the influence of bivalent metal ions on the binding affinity was resulted in order of Cu(II) > Ca(II) > Co(II) > Zn(II).

Intercalation of manganese-mefenamic acid complex into double stranded of calf thymus DNA

The interaction of the [Mn(mef)₂(phen)H₂O] complex in which mef is mefenamic acid drug and phen is 1,10 phenanthrolin ligand with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) was studied by using different spectroscopic methods, molecular docking and viscometery. The competitive fluorescence and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy indicated that the complex interacted with ctDNA via intercalating binding mode with the binding constant of 1.16 × 10⁴ Lmol^-1. The thermodynamic studies showed that the reaction between the complex and ctDNA is exothermic. Furthermore, the complex induced changes in DNA viscosity. Circular dichroism spectroscopy (CD) was employed to measure the conformational changes of ctDNA in the presence of the complex and verified intercalation binding mode. The molecular modeling results illustrated that the complex interacted via intercalation by relative binding energy of -28.45 kJ mol^-1.

Synthesis, characterization and DNA binding studies of a new ibuprofen-platinum(II) complex

The study is focused on the synthesis of a novel complex of ibuprofen and Platinum(II). The formation of the product was characterized through analytical tools including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, mass spectrometry as well as density functional theory. Using the continuous variation method, the stoichiometry of Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂ binding on DNA (ct-DNA) determines as a single class of binding. Based on the results of Stern-Volmer analysis on the fluorescence quenching data, the quenching mechanism was determined to be static in nature. The studies indicated that the complex could bind DNA molecules via groove binding for four major reasons. Initially, the complex-DNA binding constant determined based on spectrophotometric data were found to be comparable to those of groove-binding drugs. In addition, the competitive fluorimetric based on the applications of Hoechst 33258 proved the ability of Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂ to displace with Hoechst in its DNA-bounded form, reflecting the competition between Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂ and Hoechst for groove binding. Further, no considerable changes were observed in the intensity of the methylene blue (MB)-DNA system after adding the Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂ complex, reflecting the stability of MB molecules in the DNA helix and a non-intercalative bonds of Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂ interaction on DNA. Finally, minor changes in the viscosity of DNA in the presence of Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂, indicated that changes in the length of DNA in the presence of the complex are negligible, supporting the assumption of DNA groove-binding. Also induced CD spectral changes and docking simulations were in favor of the groove mechanism for the Pt(HIb)₂(Cl)₂-DNA binding.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Synthesis, characterization and DNA interaction studies of new copper complex containing pseudoephedrine hydrochloride drug

A new copper(II) complex, [Cu(pse)(phen)Cl₂]; in which phen = 1,10-phenanthroline and pse = pseudoephedrine hydrochloride drug; was synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, Mass and UV-Vis spectroscopy in combination with computational methods. Binding interaction of this complex with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) has been investigated by absorption, emission, circular dichroism, molecular docking and viscosity measurements. The complex displays significant binding properties of ct-DNA. The results of fluorescence and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy indicated that, this complex interacted with ct-DNA in a groove-binding mode, and the binding constant was 8 × 10⁴ L mol^-1. Competitive fluorimetric studies with Hoechst 33258 have shown that Cu(II) complex exhibit the ability to displace the DNA-bound Hoechst 33258 indicating that it binds to DNA in strong competition with Hoechst 33258 for the groove binding. Furthermore, the complex induces detectable changes in the CD spectrum of ct-DNA and does not induce any changes in DNA viscosity which verified the groove-binding mode. The molecular modeling results illustrated that the complex strongly binds to groove of DNA by relative binding energy of docked structure (-27.61 kJ mol^-1).

The effect of dimerization on the interaction of ibuprofen drug with calf thymus DNA: Molecularmodeling and spectroscopic investigation

The interaction between the dimer structure of ibuprofen drug (D-IB) and calf thymus DNA under simulative physiological conditions was investigated with the use of Hoechst 33258 and methylene blue dye as spectral probes by the methods of UV-visible absorption, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism spectroscopy and molecular modeling study.Using the Job's plot, a single class of binding sites for theD-IB on DNA was put in evidence. The Stern-Volmer analysis of fluorescence quenching data shows the presence of both the static and dynamic quenching mechanisms. The binding constants, K_b were calculated at different temperatures, and the thermodynamic parameters ∆G^∘, ∆H^∘ and ∆S^∘ were given. The experimental results showed that D-IB molecules could bind with DNA via groove binding mode as evidenced by: I. DNA binding constant from spectrophotometric studies of the interaction of D-IB with DNA is comparable to groove binding drugs. II. Competitive fluorimetric studies with Hoechst 33258 have shown that D-IB exhibits the ability of this complex to displace with DNA-bounded Hoechst, indicating that it binds to DNA in strong competition with Hoechst for the groove binding. III. There is no significantly change in the absorption of the MB-DNA system upon adding the D-IB, indicates that MB molecules are not released from the DNA helix after addition of the D-IB and are indicative of a non-intercalative mode of binding. IV. Small changes in DNA viscosity in the presence of D-IB, indicating weak link to DNA, which is consistent with DNA groove binding. As well as, induced CD spectral changes, and the docking results revealed that groove mechanism is followed by D-IB to bind with DNA.

Spectroscopic investigation into the interaction of a diazacyclam-based macrocyclic copper(ii) complex with bovine serum albumin

Cyclam-based ligands and their complexes are known to show antitumor activity. This study was undertaken to examine the interaction of a diazacyclam-based macrocyclic copper(II) complex with bovine serum albumin (BSA) under physiological conditions. The interactions of different metal-based drugs with blood proteins, especially those with serum albumin, may affect the concentration and deactivation of metal drugs, and thereby influence their availability and toxicity during chemotherapy. In this vein, several spectral methods including UV-vis absorption, fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy techniques were used. Spectroscopic analysis of the fluorescence quenching confirmed that the Cu(II) complex quenched BSA fluorescence intensity by a dynamic mechanism. In order to further determine the quenching mechanism, an analysis of Stern-Volmer plots at various concentrations of BSA was carried out. It was found that the K_SV value increased with the BSA concentration. It was suggested that the fluorescence quenching process was a dynamic quenching rather than a static quenching mechanism. Based on Förster's theory, the average binding distance between the Cu(II) complex and BSA (r) was found to be 4.98 nm; as the binding distance was less than 8 nm, energy transfer from BSA to the Cu(II) complex had a high possibility of occurrence. Thermodynamic parameters (positive ΔH and ΔS values) and measurement of competitive fluorescence with 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulphonic acid (1,8-ANS) indicated that hydrophobic interaction plays a major role in the Cu(II) complex interaction with BSA. A Job's plot of the results confirmed that there was one binding site in BSA for the Cu(II) complex (1:1 stoichiometry). The site marker competitive experiment confirmed that the Cu(II) complex was located in site I (subdomain IIA) of BSA. Finally, CD data indicated that interaction of the Cu(II) complex with BSA caused a small increase in the α-helical content. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Racemic R,S-venlafaxine hydrochloride-DNA interaction: experimental and computational evidence

The interaction of racemic R,S-venlafaxine hydrochloride (rac-VEN) drug with calf thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (ct-DNA) was studied using various physico-chemical techniques and molecular docking at simulated physiological conditions (pH=7.4). The fluorescence study shows that ct-DNA interacted with rac-VEN and quenched its intrinsic fluorescence in a static quenching process. These results are further supported by UV-Vis spectra. The binding constant of rac-VEN with ct-DNA (0.57 × 10(4)) obtained from the spectroscopic techniques, which is more in keeping with the groove binding with DNA. Furthermore, the competition experiment using Hoechst33258 indicated that rac-VEN may bind to ct-DNA by a minor groove binding mode. In addition, iodide quenching effect on the fluorescence of rac-VEN before and after the interaction with ct-DNA is another evidence to groove binding. The thermodynamic parameters are calculated by van't Hoff equation, which demonstrated that hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions played major roles in the binding reaction. Molecular simulation studies carried out by using the AutoDock4 and Spartan 10 programs. From the best docking map, we found that R and S-isomers fit in the A6T7T8/T19A18A17 region in minor groove of B-DNA. Finally, these results indicated that the docking of S-VEN-B-DNA is more stable than R-VEN-B-DNA.

Study on the interaction of antiviral drug 'Tenofovir' with human serum albumin by spectral and molecular modeling methods

This study was designed to examine the interaction of Tenofovir (Ten) with human serum albumin (HSA) under physiological conditions. The binding of drugs with human serum albumin is a crucial factor influencing the distribution and bioactivity of drugs in the body. To understand the action mechanisms between Ten and HSA, the binding of Ten with HSA was investigated by a combined experimental and computational approach. UV-vis results confirmed that Ten interacted with HSA to form a ground-state complex and values of the Stern-Volmer quenching constant indicate the presence of a static component in the quenching mechanism. As indicated by the thermodynamic parameters (positive ΔH and ΔS values), hydrophobic interaction plays a major role in the Ten-HSA complex. Through the site marker competitive experiment, Ten was confirmed to be located in site I of HSA. Furthermore, UV-vis absorption spectra, synchronous fluorescence spectrum and CD data were used to investigate the structural change of HSA molecules with addition of Ten, the results indicate that the secondary structure of HSA molecules was changed in the presence of Ten. The experimental results were in agreement with the results obtained via molecular docking study.

Mechanistic and conformational studies on the interaction of a platinum(II) complex containing an antiepileptic drug, levetiracetam, with bovine serum albumin by optical spectroscopic techniques in aqueous solution

Fluorescence spectroscopy in combination with circular dichroism (CD) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption spectroscopy were employed to investigate the binding of a new platinum(II) complex containing an antiepileptic drug "Levetiracetam" to bovine serum albumin (BSA) under the physiological conditions. In the mechanism discussion, it was proved that the fluorescence quenching of BSA by Pt(II) complex is a result of the formation of Pt(II) complex-BSA complex. The thermodynamic parameters ΔG, ΔH, and ΔS at different temperatures (283, 298, and 310 K) were calculated, and the negative value for ΔH and ΔS indicate that the hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions play major roles in Pt(II) complex-BSA association. Binding studies concerning the number of binding sites (n~1) and apparent binding constant K b were performed by fluorescence quenching method. The site marker competitive experiments indicated that the binding of Pt(II) complex to BSA primarily took place in site II. Based on the Förster's theory, the average binding distance between Pt(II) complex and BSA was obtained (r = 5.29 nm). Furthermore, UV-vis, CD, and synchronous fluorescence spectrum were used to investigate the structural change of BSA molecules with addition of Pt(II) complex. These results indicate that the binding of Pt(II) complex to BSA causes apparent change in the secondary structure of BSA and do affect the microenvironment around the tryptophan residue.

Molecular modeling and spectroscopic studies on the interaction of the chiral drug venlafaxine hydrochloride with bovine serum albumin

This study was designed to examine the interaction of racemic antidepressant drug "S,R-venlafaxine hydrochloride (VEN)" with bovine serum albumin (BSA) under physiological conditions. The mechanism of interaction was studied by spectroscopic techniques combination with molecular modeling. Stern-Volmer analysis of fluorescence quenching data shows the presence of the static quenching mechanism. The thermodynamic parameters indicated that the hydrogen bonding and weak van der Waals interactions are the predominant intermolecular forces stabilizing the complex. The number of binding sites (n) was calculated. Through the site marker competitive experiment, VEN was confirmed to be located in subdomain IIIA of BSA. The binding distance (r=4.93 nm) between the donor BSA and acceptor VEN was obtained according to Förster's non-radiative energy transfer theory. According to UV-vis spectra and CD data binding of VEN leaded to conformational changes of BSA. Molecular docking simulations of S and R-VEN revealed that both isomers have similar interaction and the same binding sites, from this point of view S and R isomers are equal.

Spectroscopic studies on the interaction of calf thymus DNA with the drug levetiracetam

The interaction of native calf thymus DNA with the drug levetiracetam (LV) has been investigated by absorption, emission, circular dichroism, melting temperature (T(m)) curves and viscosity studies. Spectrophotometric studies of the interaction of levetiracetam with DNA have shown that it can binds to CT-DNA and the DNA binding constant (K(b)=(4.9±0.2)×10(3) M(-1)) is comparable to groove binding drugs. Competitive fluorimetric studies with hoechst 33258 have shown that levetiracetam exhibit the ability to displace the DNA-bound hoechst 33258 indicating that it binds to DNA in strong competition with hoechst 33258 for the groove binding. Furthermore, the drug induces detectable changes in the CD spectrum of CT-DNA as well as changes in its viscosity. The values of melting temperature (T(m)) of DNA-methylene blue (MB) complex and LV-DNA-MB complex were determined. Finally, all of the experimental results prove that the minor groove binding must be predominant.

MD-1 expression regulates direct and indirect allorecognition

Expression of the molecule MD-1 was previously described to regulate allogeneic and xenogeneic skin graft survival, as documented by the decrease in rejection seen following functional blockade of MD-1 expression in vivo, using antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) or anti-MD-1 antibodies. It was unclear from these data whether blockade of expression of MD-1 on donor or recipient cells was crucial. We have investigated the effect on allorecognition of treating skin graft donors, and/or recipients, of either fully major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-mismatched allogeneic skin grafts (C3H with C57BL/6 grafts and vice versa) or grafts differing at only multiple minor alloantigens (C3H with B10.BR grafts; C57BL/6 with C3H.SW), with antisense ODNs to MD-1, or in some cases, following transplantation of class II-deficient cells into class I-deficient mice. Graft-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were measured in spleen cells recovered at sacrifice of recipients and following donor-specific restimulation in vitro. In the latter case, we also measured cell proliferation and (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) production of interleukin-2 (IL-2)/interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) or IL-4/IL-10 in vitro (nominal type-1 vs type-2 cytokines). CTL responses to minor-incompatible grafts were diminished, only if graft recipients were treated with ODNs. However, treatment of graft donor and/or recipient of MHC-incompatible grafts produced inhibition of CTL production. Optimal inhibition came from treating both. Specific suppression of CTL production coincided with inhibition of proliferation and preferential production of IL-4 and IL-10 at the expense of IL-2 and IFN-gamma. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that MD-1 expression regulates both the direct and indirect pathways of allorecognition and that regulation of MD-1 expression may thus help regulate clinical graft rejection.

Preparation and functional properties of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to murine MD-1

Rabbits, rats and hamsters were immunized with KLH-coupled synthetic peptide sequences of the murine MD-1 molecule. Serum from immunized animals bound in Western gels to a 25 KDa protein extracted from LPS stimulated mouse spleen cells, as did a rat hybridoma (SH1.2.47) prepared from peptide-immunized rats. CHO cells transfected with a plasmid cDNA construct encoding murine MD-1, the target antigen for the antibodies in question, were also stained (in FACS) by the same antibodies. Patching and capping of the antigen(s) detected by any one of these sera abolished binding of all antibodies in subsequent FACS analysis, consistent with the hypothesis that they all detected the same antigen. In a final study to assess the possible involvement of MD-1 in regulation of cell activation for cytokine production following allostimulation, we found that all of the antibodies inhibited IL-2 and IFNgamma production, while enhancing IL-4 and IL-10 production, in mixed leukocyte reactions (MLR) in vitro.

Regulation of gene expression of murine MD-1 regulates subsequent T cell activation and cytokine production

The immunoadhesin (OX2:Fc) comprising the extracellular domain of murine OX2 linked to IgG2aFc, inhibits production of IL-2 and IFN-gamma by activated T cells and increases allograft and xenograft survival in vivo. Increased expression of OX2 on dendritic cells (DC) in vivo following preimmunization via the portal vein is also associated with elevated expression of MD-1. We have used antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) to MD-1 to investigate the effect of inhibition of expression of MD-1 by DC on their function as allostimulatory cells. We also investigated by FACS analysis the cell surface expression of OX2, CD80, and CD86 on DC incubated with ODN-1 blocking MD-1 expression. Blocking MD-1 gene expression inhibits surface expression of CD80 and CD86, but not of OX2. DC incubated with ODN-1 to MD-1 did not stimulate IL-2 or IFN-gamma production, but generated cells able to suppress, in a second culture of fresh DC plus allogeneic T cells, production of IL-2 and IFN-gamma. This inhibition was blocked by anti-OX2 mAb. Infusion of DC preincubated with ODN-1 prolonged renal allograft survival, an effect also reversed by anti-OX2 mAb. By FACS, incubation of DC with anti-MD-1 Ab to promote capping eliminated cell surface expression of MD-1 and CD14 without altering DEC205, DC26, CD80, CD86, or OX2 expression. Thus OX2 and MD-1 are independent surface molecules on DC that may reciprocally regulate T cell stimulation. MD-1 is linked to CD14, a "danger receptor complex," and activation of this complex can regulate cell surface expression of CD80/CD86, which signal T cells.

The treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. A comparison of three methods

This retrospective study compares the long-term results of the treatment of 135 children with displaced extension-type supracondylar fractures of the humerus using 3 different methods. Closed reduction and percutaneous fixation was superior with excellent and good results in 87% and had the lowest incidence of poor results (8%). Open reduction and wire fixation, and closed reduction with a plaster cast gave excellent and good results in 74% and 60% respectively. Closed reduction and wire fixation is recommended as the treatment for grades II and III supracondylar fractures.

Remodeling after femoral shaft fractures in children treated by the modified blount method

One hundred forty-one children with femoral shaft fractures in the 1-12-year age range were treated by simple skin traction without spica cast immobilization. All fractures united in an average traction period of 28 days. Clinical and radiological reevaluation 2-10 years after treatment showed that fracture location, age, and overriding significantly affected overgrowth, whereas the length of the follow-up period and the direction of angular deformity affected correction of angulation. The following conclusions were reached: Distraction should be avoided, and overriding of up to 15 mm can be compensated for by growth acceleration. Initial angular deformities of up to 20 degrees in the coronal plane and up to 30 degrees in the sagittal plane will end in a satisfactory outcome. Rotational deformity was not a problem following this method of treatment.