The vasoactive effects of bradykinin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, calcitonin gene-related peptide and neuropeptide Y depend on the perivascular tissue in porcine retinal arterioles in vitro

PURPOSE

The retina contains a number of vasoactive neuropeptides and corresponding receptors, but the role of these neuropeptides for tone regulation of retinal arterioles has not been studied in detail.

METHODS

Porcine arterioles with preserved perivascular retinal tissue were mounted in a wire myograph, and the tone was measured after the addition of increasing concentrations of bradykinin, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). The experiments were performed during inhibition of the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins and dopamine and were repeated after removal of the perivascular retinal tissue.

RESULTS

Bradykinin, VIP and CGRP induced significant concentration-dependent dilatation and NPY significant concentration-dependent contraction of the arterioles in the presence of perivascular retinal tissue (p < 0.03 for all comparisons) but not on isolated arterioles. BNP and SP had no effect on vascular tone. The NOS inhibitor L-NAME reduced bradykinin- and VIP-induced relaxation (p < 0.001 for both comparisons), whereas none of the other inhibitors influenced the vasoactive effects of the studied neuropeptides.

CONCLUSION

The effects of neuropeptides on the tone of retinal arterioles depend on the perivascular retinal tissue and may involve effects other than those mediated by nitric oxide, prostaglandins and adrenergic compounds. Investigation of the mechanisms underlying the vasoactive effect of neuropeptides may be important for understanding and treating retinal diseases where disturbances in retinal flow regulation are involved in the disease pathogenesis.

The Ocean's Pharmacy: Health Discoveries in Marine Algae

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represent a global health challenge, constituting a major cause of mortality and disease burden in the 21st century. Addressing the prevention and management of NCDs is crucial for improving global public health, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies, early interventions, and innovative therapeutic approaches to mitigate their far-reaching consequences. Marine organisms, mainly algae, produce diverse marine natural products with significant therapeutic potential. Harnessing the largely untapped potential of algae could revolutionize drug development and contribute to combating NCDs, marking a crucial step toward natural and targeted therapeutic approaches. This review examines bioactive extracts, compounds, and commercial products derived from macro- and microalgae, exploring their protective properties against oxidative stress, inflammation, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, metabolic diseases, and cancer across in vitro, cell-based, in vivo, and clinical studies. Most research focuses on macroalgae, demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, gut health modulation, metabolic health promotion, and anti-cancer effects. Microalgae products also exhibit anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and anti-cancer properties. Although studies mainly investigated extracts and fractions, isolated compounds from algae have also been explored. Notably, polysaccharides, phlorotannins, carotenoids, and terpenes emerge as prominent compounds, collectively representing 42.4% of the investigated compounds.

Design and synthesis of novel coumarin-benzimidazole hybrids as human galectin-1 inhibitors

Aim: To develop novel non-carbohydrate inhibitors of human galectin-1 (GAL-1), we have designed a series of coumarin-benzimidazole hybrids. Methods: We synthesized and characterized the coumarin-benzimidazole hybrids and further evaluated them using an in vitro GAL-1 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and in silico methods. Results: Among all, the compounds 6p and 6q were found to be potent, with GAL-1 inhibition of 37.61 and 36.92%, respectively, at 10 μM in GAL-1-expressed cell culture supernatant of MCF-7 cells. These two compounds are feasible for fluorine-18 radiolabeling to develop GAL-1 selective PET radiotracers. Computational studies revealed strong binding interactions of GAL-1 with these novel coumarin-benzimidazole hybrids. Conclusion: Coumarin-benzimidazole hybrids can serve as potential leads to develop selective non-carbohydrate GAL-1 inhibitors for cancer therapy.

In Vitro Evaluation of Pore Size Graded Bone Scaffolds with Different Material Composition

The demand for biomimetic and biocompatible scaffolds in equivalence of structure and material composition for the regeneration of bone tissue is relevantly high. This article is investigating a novel three-dimensional (3D) printed porous structure called bone bricks with a gradient pore size mimicking the structure of the bone tissue. Poly-ɛ-caprolactone (PCL) combined with ceramics such as hydroxyapatite (HA), β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and bioglass 45S5 were successfully mixed using a melt blending method and fabricated with the use of screw-assisted extrusion-based additive manufacturing system. Bone bricks containing the same material concentration (20 wt%) were biologically characterized through proliferation and differentiation tests. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the morphology of cells on the surface of bone bricks, whereas energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy was used to investigate the element composition on the surface of the bone bricks. Confocal imaging was used to investigate the number of differentiated cells on the surface of bone bricks. Proliferation results showed that bone bricks containing PCL/HA content are presenting higher proliferation properties, whereas differentiation results showed that bone bricks containing PCL/Bioglass 45S5 are presenting higher differentiation properties. Confocal imaging results showed that bone bricks containing PCL/Bioglass 45S5 are presenting a higher number of differentiated cells on their surface compared with the other material contents.

Design, synthesis and characterization of ethyl 3-benzoyl-7-morpholinoindolizine-1-carboxylate as anti-tubercular agents: In silico screening for possible target identification

A thorough search for the development of innovative drugs to treat tuberculosis, especially considering the urgent need to address developing drug resistance, we report here a synthetic series of ethyl 3-benzoyl-7-morpholinoindolizine-1-carboxylate analogues (5a-o) as potent anti-tubercular agents. These morpholino-indolizines were synthesized by reacting 4-morpholino pyridinium salts, with various electron-deficient acetylenes to afford the ethyl 3-benzoyl-7-morpholinoindolizine-1-carboxylate analogues (5a-o). All synthesized intermediate and final compounds are characterized by spectroscopic methods such as 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS and further examined for their anti-tubercular activity against the M. tuberculosis H37Rv strain (ATCC 27294-American type cell culture). All the compounds screened for anti-tubercular activity in the range of 6.25-50 μM against the H37Rv strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Compound 5g showed prominent activity with MIC99 2.55 μg/mL whereas compounds 5d and 5j showed activity with MIC99 18.91 μg/mL and 25.07 μg/mL, respectively. In silico analysis of these compounds revealed drug-likeness. Additionally, the molecular target identification for Malate synthase (PDB 5CBB) is attained by computational approach. The compound 5g with a MIC99 value of 2.55 μg/mL against M. tuberculosis H37Rv emerged as the most promising anti-TB drug and in silico investigations suggest Malate synthase (5CBB) might be the compound's possible target.

The urothelial barrier in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome: its form and function, an overview of preclinical models

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Investigating bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (IC/BPS) preclinically is challenging. Various research models have been used to mimic the urothelial barrier closely and replicate the disease. The aim of this review is to discuss preclinical research related to the urothelial barrier in context of IC/BPS.

RECENT FINDINGS

In vivo models mimic IC/BPS mainly with toxic substances in the urine, with protaminesulfate and proteoglycan deglycolysation resembling a temporary impaired barrier as seen in IC/BPS. This temporary increased permeability has also been found in vitro models. Glycosaminoglycan replenishment therapy has been described, in vivo and in vitro, to protect and enhance recover properties of the urothelium. The roles of immune and neurogenic factors in the pathogenesis of IC/BPS remains relatively understudied.

SUMMARY

Preclinical studies provide opportunities to identify the involvement of specific pathologic pathways in IC/BPS. For further research is warranted to elucidate the primary or secondary role of permeability, together with inflammatory and neurogenic causes of the disease.

A Narrative Review of Preclinical In Vitro Studies Investigating microRNAs in Myocarditis

According to the World Health Organization's statement, myocarditis is an inflammatory myocardium disease. Although an endometrial biopsy remains the diagnostic gold standard, it is an invasive procedure, and thus, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging has become more widely used and is called a non-invasive diagnostic gold standard. Myocarditis treatment is challenging, with primarily symptomatic therapies. An increasing number of studies are searching for novel diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that decrease gene expression by inhibiting the translation or promoting the degradation of complementary mRNAs. Their role in different fields of medicine has been recently extensively studied. This review discusses all relevant preclinical in vitro studies regarding microRNAs in myocarditis. We searched the PubMed database, and after excluding unsuitable studies and clinical and preclinical in vivo trials, we included and discussed 22 preclinical in vitro studies in this narrative review. Several microRNAs presented altered levels in myocarditis patients in comparison to healthy controls. Moreover, microRNAs influenced inflammation, cell apoptosis, and viral replication. Finally, microRNAs were also found to determine the level of myocardial damage. Further studies may show the vital role of microRNAs as novel therapeutic agents or diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers in myocarditis management.

A Systematic Review of Fish-Based Biomaterial on Wound Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Processes

Objective: To conduct a systematic literature review to study the effects of fish-based biomaterials on wound healing in both in vivo and in vitro animal models. Approach: This review covers the study reported in different articles between 2016 and August 2022 concentrating mainly on the cytotoxicity evaluation of different fish-based biomaterials on inflammation, reepithelialization and wound healing. Significance: This review shows considerable amount of research work carried out with fish-based biomaterials and collagen for treating burn wounds. Surprisingly there are only a few commercial products developed so far in this particular regard for surgical purpose and therefore, there is a way out and need for developing medical support product from fish-based biomaterials to treat and cure wounds. Recent Advances: Three-dimensional skin bioprinting technique is a large-scale solution for severe burn wounds that requires collagen as a raw material for printing, wherein fish collagen can be used in place of bovine and porcine, as it is biocompatible, promotes cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration, and degrades enzymatically. In the recent times, there are a few fish-based surgical products that have been formulated by Kerecis in United States. Critical Issues: The different fish-based biomaterial products are all mere supplements taken in orally as food or supplements till date and there is no proper proven medications that has been formulated so far in the field of wound healing and inflammation based on fish biomaterials except the surgical products that can be finger counted. Future Directions: Fish-based biomaterials are known for the medicinal properties that are used throughout the world and further investigations should be carried out to understand the actual physiochemical properties of its derivatives for the discovery of novel products and drugs.

In Vitro Evaluation of Drug-Drug Interaction Potential of Epetraborole, a Novel Bacterial Leucyl-tRNA Synthetase Inhibitor

Epetraborole (EBO) is a boron-containing inhibitor of bacterial leucyl-tRNA synthetase, with potent activity against nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and Gram-negative bacteria, including Burkholderia pseudomallei. EBO is being developed for the treatment of NTM lung disease and melioidosis, administered in combination with other therapeutic agents in both diseases. Therefore, EBO and its major circulating metabolite M3 were evaluated in comprehensive drug-drug interaction (DDI) in vitro studies. The CYP inhibitory and substrate potential of EBO and M3 were assessed using hepatic microsomes. Stably transfected cells that expressed individual efflux or uptake transporters were used to determine whether EBO or M3 were substrates or inhibitors for these receptors. Stability studies indicated that EBO is a poor substrate for major CYP enzymes. Neither EBO nor M3 was a potent reversible or time-dependent inhibitor of major CYP enzymes. EBO was not an inducer of CYP1A2 mRNA, while it was a weak inducer of CYP2B6 and CYP3A4. EBO was a substrate only for OCT2. At clinically relevant concentrations, neither EBO nor M3 inhibited major human efflux or uptake transporters. Based on these data, at clinically relevant concentrations of EBO and M3, there is a low risk of victim or perpetrator DDI.

In vitro studies of the renin-angiotensin system in human adipose tissue/adipocytes and possible relationship to SARS-CoV-2: a scoping review

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) operates within adipose tissue. Obesity-related changes can affect adipose RAS, predisposing to hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and possibly severe COVID-19. We evaluated the in vitro research on human adipose RAS and identified gaps in the literature. Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Web of Science, Scopus, and 1findr were searched to identify relevant studies. Fifty primary studies met our inclusion criteria for analysis. Expression of RAS components (n = 14), role in differentiation (n = 14), association with inflammation (n = 15) or blood pressure (n = 7) were investigated. We found (1) obesity-related changes in RAS were frequently studied (30%); (2) an upswing of articles investigating adipose ACE-2 expression since the COVID-19 pandemic; (3) a paucity of papers on AT2R and Ang (1-7)/MasR which counterbalance Ang II/ART1; (4) weight loss lowered adipose ACE-2 mRNA expression; and (5) angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) reduced deleterious effects of angiotensin II. Overall, these studies link Ang II/ATR1 signalling to impaired adipogenesis and a pro-inflammatory dysfunctional adipose tissue, with ATR1 blockade limiting these responses. ACE-2 may mitigate Ang II effects by converting it to Ang(1-7) which binds MasR. More work is needed to understand adipose RAS in various pathologic states such as obesity and COVID-19 infection.T.

Anti-Proliferative Potential of Cynaroside and Orientin-In Silico (DYRK2) and In Vitro (U87 and Caco-2) Studies

Luteolin derivates are plant compounds with multiple benefits for human health. Stability to heat and acid hydrolysis and high resistance to (auto)oxidation are other arguments for the laden interest in luteolin derivates today. The present study was designed to compare the in silico and in vitro anti-proliferative potential of two luteolin derivates, luteolin-7-O-glucoside/cynaroside (7-Lut) and luteolin-8-C-glucoside/orientin (8-Lut). In silico investigations were carried out on the molecular target, namely, the human dual specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 2 (DYRK2) in association with its natural ligand, curcumin (PDB ID: 5ZTN), by CLC Drug Discovery Workbench v. 1.5.1. software and Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) v. MVD 2019.7.0. software. In vitro studies were performed on two human tumor cell lines, glioblastoma (U87) and colon carcinoma (Caco-2), respectively. Altogether, docking studies have revealed 7-Lut and 8-Lut as effective inhibitors of DYRK2, even stronger than the native ligand curcumin; in vitro studies indicated the ability of both luteolin glucosides to inhibit the viability of both human tumor cell lines, up to 85% at 50 and 100 µg/mL, respectively; the most augmented cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effects were obtained for U87 exposed to 7-Lut (IC50 = 26.34 µg/mL). The results support further studies on cynaroside and orientin to create drug formulas targeting glioblastoma and colon carcinoma in humans.

Effects of human donor milk on gut barrier function and inflammation: in vitro study of the beneficial properties to the newborn

Introduction

The gastrointestinal and immune systems of premature infants are not fully developed, rendering them more vulnerable to severe complications like necrotizing enterocolitis. Human milk offers a rich array of bioactive factors that collectively contribute to reducing the incidence of gut infections and inflammatory conditions. When a mother's milk is unavailable, preterm infants are often provided with donor human milk processed in Human Milk Banks. However, it remains uncertain whether pasteurized milk confers the same level of risk reduction as unprocessed milk. This uncertainty may stem from the well-documented adverse effects of heat treatment on milk composition. Yet, our understanding of the comprehensive impact on protective mechanisms is limited.

Methods

In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of the effects of raw versus pasteurized milk and colostrum versus mature milk on cellular functions associated with the gut epithelial barrier and responses to inflammatory stimuli. We utilized THP-1 and HT-29 cell lines, representing monocyte/macrophages and gut epithelial cells, respectively.

Results

Our observations revealed that all milk types stimulated epithelial cell proliferation. However, only raw colostrum increased cell migration and interfered with the interaction between E. coli and epithelial cells. Furthermore, the response of epithelial and macrophage cells to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was enhanced solely by raw colostrum, with a milder effect observed with mature milk. In contrast, both raw and pasteurized milk diminished the LPS induced response in monocytes. Lastly, we examined how milk affected the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages, finding that milk reduced the subsequent inflammatory response of macrophages to LPS.

Discussion

Our study sheds light on the impact of human milk on certain mechanisms that potentially account for its protective effects against necrotizing enterocolitis, highlighting the detrimental influence of pasteurization on some of these mechanisms. Our findings emphasize the urgency of developing alternative pasteurization methods to better preserve milk properties. Moreover, identifying the key components critically affected by these protective mechanisms could enable their inclusion in donor milk or formula, thereby enhancing immunological benefits for vulnerable newborns.

Critical appraisal tools used in systematic reviews of in vitro cell culture studies: A methodological study

Systematic reviews (SRs) of preclinical studies are marked with poor methodological quality. In vitro studies lack assessment tools to improve the quality of preclinical research. This methodological study aimed to identify, collect, and analyze SRs based on cell culture studies to highlight the current appraisal tools utilized to support the development of a validated critical appraisal tool for cell culture in vitro research. SRs, scoping reviews, and meta-analyses that included cell culture studies and used any type of critical appraisal tool were included. Electronic search, study selection, data collection and methodological quality (MQ) assessment tool were realized. Further, statistical analyses regarding possible associations and correlations between MQ and collected data were performed. After the screening process, 82 studies remained for subsequent analysis. A total of 32 different appraisal tools were identified. Approximately 60% of studies adopted pre-structured tools not designed for cell culture studies. The most frequent instruments were SYRCLE (n = 14), OHAT (n = 9), Cochrane Collaboration's tool (n = 7), GRADE (n = 6), CONSORT (n = 5), and ToxRTool (n = 5). The studies were divided into subgroups to perform statistical analyses. A significant association (OR = 5.00, 95% CI = 1.54-16.20, p = 0.008) was found between low MQ and chronic degenerative disorders as topic of SR. Several challenges in collecting information from the included studies led to some modifications related to the previously registered protocol. These results may serve as a basis for further development of a critical appraisal tool for cell culture studies capable of capturing all the essential factors related to preclinical research, therefore enhancing the practice of evidence-based.

Polyurethane Culture Substrates Enable Long-Term Neuron Monoculture in a Human in vitro Model of Neurotrauma

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived cells can reproduce human-specific pathophysiology, patient-specific vulnerability, and gene-environment interactions in neurological disease. Human in vitro models of neurotrauma therefore have great potential to advance the field. However, this potential cannot be realized until important biomaterials challenges are addressed. Status quo stretch injury models of neurotrauma culture cells on sheets of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) that are incompatible with long-term monoculture of hiPSC-derived neurons. Here, we overcame this challenge in an established human in vitro neurotrauma model by replacing PDMS with a highly biocompatible form of polyurethane (PU). This substitution allowed long-term monoculture of hiPSC-derived neurons. It also changed the biomechanics of stretch injury. We quantified these changes experimentally using high-speed videography and digital image correlation. We used finite element modeling to quantify the influence of the culture substrate's thickness, stiffness, and coefficient of friction on membrane stretch and concluded that the coefficient of friction explained most of the observed biomechanical changes. Despite these changes, we demonstrated that the modified model produced a robust, dose-dependent trauma phenotype in hiPSC-derived neuron monocultures. In summary, the introduction of this PU film makes it possible to maintain hiPSC-derived neurons in monoculture for long periods in a human in vitro neurotrauma model. In doing so, it opens new horizons in the field of neurotrauma by enabling the unique experimental paradigms (e.g., isogenic models) associated with hiPSC-derived neurons.

An Analysis of the Content of Metalloproteinases in the Intestinal Wall of Patients with Crohn's Disease

One of the inflammatory bowel diseases is Crohn's disease. Although this term has been used in the medical community since 1932, a significant increase in the number of publications occurs at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century. Crohn's disease is a disease that cannot be fully cured. In many cases, it is chronic, i.e., recurrent. All preventive and therapeutic measures taken by doctors are aimed at inhibiting the development of the disease and minimizing the occurrence of any potential "side effects" resulting from the developing disease. One of the diagnostic methods is the qualitative and quantitative determination of metalloproteinases in inflammatory tissues and in the blood. The aim of the study was the quantitative and qualitative determination of metalloproteinases in inflammatory bowel tissues in patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease. The in vitro study was performed on surgical tissues from patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease. The results show that in inflammatory tissues the concentration of metalloproteinases -3, -7, -8, -9 was higher compared to tissues taken from the resection margin without signs of inflammation, defined as healthy. The experiment confirmed that the biochemical test, which is the determination of metalloproteinases in tissues, is a useful diagnostic tool to differentiate inflammatory from non-inflammatory tissues.

Research in the Field of Drug Design and Development

The processes used by academic and industrial scientists to discover new drugs have recently experienced a true renaissance, with many new and exciting techniques being developed over the past 5-10 years alone. Drug design and discovery, and the search for new safe and well-tolerated compounds, as well as the ineffectiveness of existing therapies, and society's insufficient knowledge concerning the prophylactics and pharmacotherapy of the most common diseases today, comprise a serious challenge. This can influence not only the quality of human life, but also the health of whole societies, which became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. In general, the process of drug development consists of three main stages: drug discovery, preclinical development using cell-based and animal models/tests, clinical trials on humans and, finally, forward moving toward the step of obtaining regulatory approval, in order to market the potential drug. In this review, we will attempt to outline the first three most important consecutive phases in drug design and development, based on the experience of three cooperating and complementary academic centers of the Visegrád group; i.e., Medical University of Lublin, Poland, Masaryk University of Brno, Czech Republic, and Comenius University Bratislava, Slovak Republic.

Non-Digestible Carbohydrates: Green Extraction from Food By-Products and Assessment of Their Effect on Microbiota Modulation

The nature and composition of the waste produced by food industrial processing make its abundance and accumulation an environmental problem. Since these by-products may present a high potential for revalorization and may be used to obtain added-value compounds, the main goals of the technological advancements have been targeted at reducing the environmental impact and benefiting from the retrieval of active compounds with technological and health properties. Among the added-value substances, nondigestible carbohydrates have demonstrated promise. In addition to their well-known technological properties, they have been discovered to modify the gut microbiota and enhance immune function, including the stimulation of immune cells and the control of inflammatory reactions. Furthermore, the combination of these compounds with other substances such us phenols could improve their biological effect on different noncommunicable diseases through microbiota modulation. In order to gain insight into the implementation of this combined strategy, a broader focus concerning different aspects is needed. This review is focused on the optimized green and advanced extraction system applied to obtain added-value nondigestible carbohydrates, the combined administration with phenols and their beneficial effects on microbiota modulation intended for health and/or illness prevention, with particular emphasis on noncommunicable diseases. The isolation of nondigestible carbohydrates from by-products as well as in combination with other bioactive substances could provide an affordable and sustainable source of immunomodulatory chemicals.

Evaluation of synthetic aminoquinoline derivatives as urease inhibitors: in vitro, in silico and kinetic studies

Background: Quinoline and acyl thiourea scaffolds have major chemical significance in medicinal chemistry. Quinoline-based acyl thiourea derivatives may potentially target the urease enzyme. Materials & methods: Quinoline-based acyl thiourea derivatives 1-26 were synthesized and tested for urease inhibitory activity. Results: 19 derivatives (1-19) showed enhanced urease enzyme inhibitory potential (IC50 = 1.19-18.92 μM) compared with standard thiourea (IC50 = 19.53 ± 0.032 μM), whereas compounds 20-26 were inactive. Compounds with OCH3, OC2H5, Br and CH3 on the aryl ring showed significantly greater inhibitory potential than compounds with hydrocarbon chains of varying length. Molecular docking studies were conducted to investigate ligand interactions with the enzyme's active site. Conclusion: The identified hits can serve as potential leads against the drug target urease in advanced studies.

3D printed inserts for reproducible high throughput screening of cell migration

Cell migration is a fundamental and complex phenomenon that occurs in normal physiology and in diseases like cancer. Hence, understanding cell migration is very important in the fields of developmental biology and biomedical sciences. Cell migration occurs in 3 dimensions (3D) and involves an interplay of migrating cell(s), neighboring cells, extracellular matrix, and signaling molecules. To understand this phenomenon, most of the currently available techniques still rely on 2-dimensional (2D) cell migration assay, also known as the scratch assay or the wound healing assay. These methods suffer from limited reproducibility in creating a cell-free region (a scratch or a wound). Mechanical/heat related stress to cells is another issue which hampers the applicability of these methods. To tackle these problems, we developed an alternative method based on 3D printed biocompatible cell inserts, for quantifying cell migration in 24-well plates. The inserts were successfully validated via a high throughput assay for following migration of lung cancer cell line (A549 cell line) in the presence of standard cell migration promoters and inhibitors. We also developed an accompanying image analysis pipeline which demonstrated that our method outperforms the state-of-the-art methodologies for assessing the cell migration in terms of reproducibility and simplicity.

Nanoformulation-Based 1,2,3-Triazole Sulfonamides for Anti-Toxoplasma In Vitro Study

Toxoplasma gondii is deemed a successful parasite worldwide with a wide range of hosts. Currently, a combination of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine serves as the first-line treatment; however, these drugs have serious adverse effects. Therefore, it is imperative to focus on new therapies that produce the desired effect with the lowest possible dose. The designation and synthesis of sulfonamide-1,2,3-triazole hybrids (3a-c) were performed to create hybrid frameworks. The newly synthesized compounds were loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) to form nanoformulations (3a.CNP, 3b.CNP, 3c.CNP) for further in vitro investigation as an anti-Toxoplasma treatment. The current study demonstrated that all examined compounds were active against T. gondii in vitro relative to the control drug, sulfadiazine. 3c.CNP showed the best impact against T. gondii with the lowest IC50 value of 3.64 µg/mL. Using light microscopy, it was found that Vero cells treated with the three nanoformulae showed remarkable morphological improvement, and tachyzoites were rarely seen in the treated cells. Moreover, scanning and transmission electron microscopic studies confirmed the efficacy of the prepared nanoformulae on the parasites. All of them caused parasite ultrastructural damage and altered morphology, suggesting a cytopathic effect and hence confirming their promising anti-Toxoplasma activity.

Co-administration of temozolomide (TMZ) and the experimental therapeutic targeting miR-10b, profoundly affects the tumorigenic phenotype of human glioblastoma cells

Introduction: Recent studies have shown that miRNA-10b is highly expressed in high-grade glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), and its inhibition leads to deregulation of multiple pathways in tumorigenesis, resulting in repression of tumor growth and increased apoptosis. Thus, we hypothesized that suppressing miR-10b could enhance the cytotoxicity of conventional GBM chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ). Methods: Inhibition of miR-10b in glioblastoma cells was achieved using an experimental therapeutic consisting of anti-miR10b antagomirs conjugated to iron oxide nanoparticles (termed MN-anti-miR10b). The nanoparticles serve as delivery vehicles for the antagomirs as well as imaging reporters guiding the delivery in future animal studies. Results: Treatment of U251 and LN229 human glioblastoma cells with MN-anti-miR10b led to inhibition of miR-10b accompanied by repression of growth and increase in apoptosis. We next explored whether MN-anti-miR10b could enhance the cytotoxic effect of TMZ. During these studies, we unexpectedly found that TMZ monotherapy increased miR-10b expression and changed the expression of corresponding miR-10b targets. This discovery led to the design of a sequence-dependent combination treatment, in which miR-10b inhibition and induction of apoptosis by MN-anti-miR10b was followed by a sub-therapeutic dose of TMZ, which caused cell cycle arrest and ultimately cell death. This combination was highly successful in significant enhancement of apoptosis and decrease in cell migration and invasiveness. Discussion: Considering the unexpected effects of TMZ on miR-10b expression and possible implications on its clinical application, we reasoned that comprehensive in vitro studies were warranted before embarking on studies in animals. These intriguing findings serve as a solid foundation for future in vivo studies and offer promise for the successful treatment of GBM.

Anti-Cancer Potential of Edible/Medicinal Mushrooms in Breast Cancer

Edible/medicinal mushrooms have been traditionally used in Asian countries either in the cuisine or as dietary supplements and nutraceuticals. In recent decades, they have aroused increasing attention in Europe as well, due to their health and nutritional benefits. In particular, among the different pharmacological activities reported (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiviral, immunomodulating, antidiabetic, etc.), edible/medicinal mushrooms have been shown to exert in vitro and in vivo anticancer effects on several kinds of tumors, including breast cancer. In this article, we reviewed mushrooms showing antineoplastic activity again breast cancer cells, especially focusing on the possible bioactive compounds involved and their mechanisms of action. In particular, the following mushrooms have been considered: Agaricus bisporus, Antrodia cinnamomea, Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris, Coriolus versicolor, Ganoderma lucidum, Grifola frondosa, Lentinula edodes, and Pleurotus ostreatus. We also report insights into the relationship between dietary consumption of edible mushrooms and breast cancer risk, and the results of clinical studies and meta-analyses focusing on the effects of fungal extracts on breast cancer patients.

Hydrogel-Based Biomaterial as a Scaffold for Gingival Regeneration: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies

BACKGROUND

Hydrogel is considered a promising scaffold biomaterial for gingival regeneration. In vitro experiments were carried out to test new potential biomaterials for future clinical practice. The systematic review of such in vitro studies could synthesize evidence of the characteristics of the developing biomaterials. This systematic review aimed to identify and synthesize in vitro studies that assessed the hydrogel scaffold for gingival regeneration.

METHODS

Data on experimental studies on the physical and biological properties of hydrogel were synthesized. A systematic review of the PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting System for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement guidelines. In total, 12 original articles on the physical and biological properties of hydrogels for gingival regeneration, published in the last 10 years, were identified.

RESULTS

One study only performed physical property analyses, two studies only performed biological property analyses, and nine studies performed both physical and biological property analyses. The incorporation of various natural polymers such as collagen, chitosan, and hyaluronic acids improved the biomaterial characteristics. The use of synthetic polymers faced some drawbacks in their physical and biological properties. Peptides, such as growth factors and arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD), can be used to enhance cell adhesion and migration. Based on the available primary studies, all studies successfully present the potential of hydrogel characteristics in vitro and highlight the essential biomaterial properties for future periodontal regenerative treatment.

Nanoencapsulation of Ruthenium Complex Ru(ThySMet): A Strategy to Improve Selective Cytotoxicity Against Breast Tumor Cells in 2D and 3D Culture Models

BACKGROUND

Ruthenium complexes have shown promise in treating many cancers, including breast cancer. Previous studies of our group have demonstrated the potential of the trans-[Ru(PPh3)2(N,N-dimethylN'-thiophenylthioureato-k2O,S)(bipy)]PF6 complex, the Ru(ThySMet), in the treatment of breast tumor cancers, both in 2D and 3D culture systems. Additionally, this complex presented low toxicity when tested in vivo.

AIMS

Improve the Ru(ThySMet) activity by incorporating the complex into a microemulsion (ME) and testing its in vitro effects.

METHODS

The ME-incorporated Ru(ThySMet) complex, Ru(ThySMet)ME, was tested for its biological effects in two- (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cultures using different types of breast cells, MDA-MB-231, MCF-10A, 4T1.13ch5T1 and Balb/C 3T3 fibroblasts.

RESULTS

An increased selective cytotoxicity of the Ru(ThySMet)ME for tumor cells was found in 2D cell culture, compared with the original complex. This novel compound also changed the shape of tumor cells and inhibited cell migration with more specificity. Additional 3D cell culture tests using the non-neoplastic S1 and the triple-negative invasive T4-2 breast cells have shown that Ru(ThySMet)ME presented increased selective cytotoxicity for tumor cells compared with the 2D results. The morphology assay performed in 3D also revealed its ability to reduce the size of the 3D structures and increase the circularity in T4-2 cells.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that the Ru(ThySMet)ME is a promising strategy to increase its solubility, delivery, and bioaccumulation in target breast tumors.

The Central Nervous System Source Modulates Microglia Function and Morphology In Vitro

The regional heterogeneity of microglia was first described a century ago by Pio del Rio Hortega. Currently, new information on microglia heterogeneity throughout central nervous system (CNS) regions is being revealed by high-throughput techniques. It remains unclear whether these spatial specificities translate into different microglial behaviors in vitro. We cultured microglia isolated from the cortex and spinal cord and analyzed the effect of the CNS spatial source on behavior in vitro by applying the same experimental protocol and culture conditions. We analyzed the microglial cell numbers, function, and morphology and found a distinctive in vitro phenotype. We found that microglia were present in higher numbers in the spinal-cord-derived glial cultures, presenting different expressions of inflammatory genes and a lower phagocytosis rate under basal conditions or after activation with LPS and IFN-γ. Morphologically, the cortical microglial cells were more complex and presented longer ramifications, which were also observed in vivo in CX3CR1^+/GFP transgenic reporter mice. Collectively, our data demonstrated that microglial behavior in vitro is defined according to specific spatial characteristics acquired by the tissue. Thus, our study highlights the importance of microglia as a source of CNS for in vitro studies.

Antiviral effects of phytochemicals against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and their mechanisms of action: A review

The worldwide spreading of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has posed a serious threat to health, economic, environmental, and social aspects of human lives. Currently, there are no approved treatments that can effectively block the virus although several existing antimalarial and antiviral agents have been repurposed and allowed use during the pandemic under the emergency use authorization (EUA) status. This review gives an updated overview of the antiviral effects of phytochemicals including alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids against the COVID-19 virus and their mechanisms of action. Search for natural lead molecules against SARS-CoV-2 has been focusing on virtual screening and in vitro studies on phytochemicals that have shown great promise against other coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV. Until now, there is limited data on in vivo investigations to examine the antiviral activity of plants in SARS-CoV-2-infected animal models and the studies were performed using crude extracts. Further experimental and preclinical investigations on the in vivo effects of phytochemicals have to be performed to provide sufficient efficacy and safety data before clinical studies can be performed to develop them into COVID-19 drugs. Phytochemicals are potential sources of new chemical leads for the development of safe and potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents.

The influence of horizontal glass fiber posts on fracture strength and fracture pattern of endodontically treated teeth: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies

PURPOSE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize available evidence regarding the effect of horizontal glass fiber posts (HGFPs) on fracture strength and fracture pattern of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) compared to controls without HGFP. The review protocol was registered on the OSF registries.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, and ProQuest for all relevant studies published up to February 2022. All in vitro studies that assessed the influence of HGFPs on fracture strength and fracture pattern of ETT whether mesio-occluso-distal or mesio-occlusal or DO cavities were considered eligible. Review Manager (RevMan) was used for the meta-analysis. Subgroup and funnel plot analyses were also performed. Quality assessment was conducted by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

A total of 12 articles met the inclusion criteria, and 10 studies underwent quantitative evaluation. The pooled effect showed that fracture resistance of molar teeth restored with HGFP was significantly higher than teeth without HGFP (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14, 3.09, p = 0.03), whereas marginally significant for premolars (SMD: 1.36, 95% CI: -0.00, 2.73, p = 0.05). Regarding fracture patterns, the presence of an HGFP significantly increased the occurrence of restorable fracture patterns for premolars (odds ratios [OR]: 4.15, 95% CI: 1.60, 10.82, p = 0.004) compared to controls, whereas the difference was not significant for molars (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.43, 2.77, p = 0.85). Moderate risk of bias was identified in 9/12 studies; one study showed a high risk of bias and two studies showed a low risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this study, there is evidence from in vitro studies that the use of HGFP increases the fracture resistance of the ETT when compared to teeth without HGFP and also reduces the occurrence of non-restorable fractures for premolars. However, well-conducted in vitro and prospective clinical studies are warranted to validate this finding.

Natural Active Ingredients and TRPV1 Modulation: Focus on Key Chemical Moieties Involved in Ligand-Target Interaction

Diseases such as cancer, neurological pathologies and chronic pain represent currently unmet needs. The existing pharmacotherapeutic options available for treating these conditions are limited by lack of efficiency and/or side effects. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 ion channel emerged as an attractive therapeutic target for developing new analgesic, anti-cancer and antiepileptic agents. Furthermore, various natural ingredients were shown to have affinity for this receptor. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize the diverse natural scaffolds of TRPV1 modulators based on their agonistic/antagonistic properties and to analyze the structure-activity relationships between the ligands and molecular targets based on the results of the existing molecular docking, mutagenesis and in vitro studies. We present here an exhaustive collection of TRPV1 modulators grouped by relevant chemical features: vanilloids, guaiacols, phenols, alkylbenzenes, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenoids, alkaloids, etc. The information herein is useful for understanding the key structural elements mediating the interaction with TRPV1 and how their structural variation impacts the interaction between the ligand and receptor. We hope this data will contribute to the design of novel effective and safe TRPV1 modulators, to help overcome the lack of effective therapeutic agents against pathologies with high morbidity and mortality.

Formulation for the Targeted Delivery of a Vaccine Strain of Oncolytic Measles Virus (OMV) in Hyaluronic Acid Coated Thiolated Chitosan as a Green Nanoformulation for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer: A Viro-Immunotherapeutic Approach

Background

Oncolytic viruses are reported as dynamite against cancer treatment nowadays.

Methodology

In the present work, a live attenuated oral measles vaccine (OMV) strain was used to formulate a polymeric surface-functionalized ligand-based nanoformulation (NF). OMV (half dose: not less than 500 TCID units; 0.25 mL) was encapsulated in thiolated chitosan and outermost coating with hyaluronic acid by ionic gelation method characterizing parameters was performed.

Results and Discussion

CD44 high expression was confirmed in prostatic adenocarcinoma (PRAD) by GEPIA which extracted data of normal and cancer tissue from GTEx and TCGA. Bioinformatics tools confirmed the viral hemagglutinin capsid protein interaction with human Caspase-I, NLRP3, and TNF-α and viral fusion protein interaction with COX-II and Caspase-I after successful delivery of MV encapsulated in NFs due to high affinity of hyaluronic acid with CD44 on the surface of prostate cancer cells. Particle size = 275.6 mm, PDI = 0.372, and ±11.5 zeta potential were shown by zeta analysis, while the thiolated group in NFs was confirmed by FTIR and Raman analysis. SEM and XRD showed a spherical smooth surface and crystalline nature, respectively, while TEM confirmed virus encapsulation within nanoparticles, which makes it very useful in targeted virus delivery systems. The virus was released from NFs in a sustained but continuous release pattern till 48 h. The encapsulated virus titer was calculated as 2.34×107 TCID50/mL units, which showed syncytia formation on post-day infection 7. Multiplicities of infection 0.1, 0.5, 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 of HA-coated OMV-loaded NFs as compared to MV vaccine on PC3 was inoculated with IC50 of 5.1 and 3.52, respectively, and growth inhibition was seen after 72 h via MTT assay which showed apoptotic cancer cell death.

Conclusion

Active targeted, efficacious, and sustained delivery of formulated oncolytic MV is a potent moiety in cancer treatment at lower doses with safe potential for normal prostate cells.

Exosomes as Delivery Systems for Targeted Tumour Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of In vitro Studies

BACKGROUND

Delivery systems with low immunogenicity and toxicity are believed to enhance the efficacy of specific targeted drug delivery to cancer cells. Exosomes are potential natural nanosystems that can enhance the delivery of therapeutic agents for targeted cancer therapy.

OBJECTIVE

This study provides a precise effect size of exosomes as nanovesicles for in vitro delivery of anticancer agents.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the efficacy of exosomes as nanocarriers for the delivery of therapeutic molecules was investigated using the random-effects model. We did comprehensive literature searches through CINAHL, Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct of in vitro studies that reported exosomes as delivery systems for cancer therapy.

RESULTS

After the screening of eligible articles, a total of 50 studies were enrolled for the metaanalysis. The results showed that cancer cells treated with exosome-loaded anticancer agents for at least 6 h significantly decreased cell viability and increased cytotoxicity with the standardized mean difference (SMD) of -1.47 (-2.18, -0.76; (p<0.0001) and -1.66 (-2.71, -0.61; p<0.002). Exosomes effectively delivered drugs and exogenous miRNAs, siRNAs, viruses, and enzymes to cancer cells in vitro.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis provides evidence of exosomes as efficient nanocarriers for the delivery of anticancer drugs.

Metal Coordination and Biological Screening of a Schiff Base Derived from 8-Hydroxyquinoline and Benzothiazole

Designing new metallodrugs for anticancer therapy is a driving force in the scientific community. Aiming to contribute to this field, we hereby report the development of a Schiff base (H2L) derived from the condensation of 2-carbaldehyde-8-hydroxyquinoline with 2-hydrazinobenzothiazole and its complexation with transition metal ions. All compounds were characterised by analytical and spectroscopic techniques, which disclosed their structure: [Cu(HL)Cl], [Cu(HL)2], [Ni(HL)(acetate)], [Ni(HL)2], [Ru(HL)Cl(DMSO)], [VO(HL)2] and [Fe(HL)2Cl(H2O)]. Different binding modes were proposed, showing the ligand’s coordination versatility. The ligand proton dissociation constants were determined, and the tested compounds showed high lipophilicity and light sensitivity. The stability of all complexes in aqueous media and their ability to bind to albumin were screened. Based on an antiproliferative in vitro screening, [Ni(HL)(acetate)] and [Ru(HL)Cl(DMSO)] were selected for further studies aiming to investigate their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential towards colon cancer. The complexes displayed IC50 < 21 μM towards murine (CT-26) and human (HCT-116) colon cancer cell lines. Importantly, both complexes exhibited superior antiproliferative properties compared to the clinically approved 5-fluorouracil. [Ni(HL)(acetate)] induced cell cycle arrest in S phase in CT-26 cells. For [Ru(HL)Cl(DMSO)] this effect was observed in both colon cancer cell lines. Additionally, both compounds significantly inhibited cell migration particularly in the human colon cancer cell line, HCT-116. Overall, the therapeutic potential of both metal complexes was demonstrated.

Nutraceutical-Based Nanoformulations for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Different strategies have been investigated for a more satisfactory treatment of advanced breast cancer, including the adjuvant use of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). These nutritional compounds have been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic activities, the capacity to affect transduction pathways/receptors involved in cell growth and to reprogram tumor microenvironment. Omega-3 PUFA-containing nanoformulations designed for drug delivery in breast cancer were shown to potentiate the effects of enclosed drugs, enhance drug delivery to target sites, and minimize drug-induced side effects. We have critically analyzed here the results of the most recent studies investigating the effects of omega-3 PUFA-containing nanoformulations in breast cancer. The anti-neoplastic efficacy of omega-3 PUFAs has also been convincingly demonstrated by using preclinical in vivo models of ovarian cancer. The results obtained are critically analyzed here and seem to provide a sufficient rationale to move to still lacking interventional clinical trials, as well as to evaluate possible advantages of enclosing omega-3 PUFAs to drug-delivery nanosystems for ovarian cancer. Future perspectives in this area are also provided.

Melatonin in Endometriosis: Mechanistic Understanding and Clinical Insight

Endometriosis is defined as the development of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Pathophysiology of this disease includes abnormal hormone profiles, cell survival, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, immunology, and inflammation. Melatonin is a neuroendocrine hormone that is synthesized and released primarily at night from the mammalian pineal gland. Increasing evidence has revealed that melatonin can be synthesized and secreted from multiple extra-pineal tissues where it regulates immune response, inflammation, and angiogenesis locally. Melatonin receptors are expressed in the uterus, and the therapeutic effects of melatonin on endometriosis and other reproductive disorders have been reported. In this review, key information related to the metabolism of melatonin and its biological effects is summarized. Furthermore, the latest in vitro and in vivo findings are highlighted to evaluate the pleiotropic functions of melatonin, as well as to summarize its physiological and pathological effects and treatment potential in endometriosis. Moreover, the pharmacological and therapeutic benefits derived from the administration of exogenous melatonin on reproductive system-related disease are discussed to support the potential of melatonin supplements toward the development of endometriosis. More clinical trials are needed to confirm its therapeutic effects and safety.

Study on βTCP/P(3HB) Scaffolds-Physicochemical Properties and Biological Performance in Low Oxygen Concentration

The search for new materials for bone regenerative purposes is still ongoing. Therefore, we present a series of newly constructed composites based on β tricalcium phosphate (βTCP) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) bacteria-derived biopolymer (P(3HB)) in the form of 3D scaffolds with different pore sizes. To improve the polymer attachment to the βTCP surface, the etching of ceramic sinters, using citric acid, was applied. As expected, pre-treatment led to the increase in surface roughness and the creation of micropores facilitating polymer adhesion. In this way, the durability and compressive strength of the ceramic-polymer scaffolds were enhanced. It was confirmed that P(3HB) degrades to 3-hydroxybutyric acid, which broadens applications of developed materials in bone tissue engineering as this compound can potentially nourish surrounding tissues and reduce osteoporosis. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, it is one of the first studies where the impact of βTCP/P(3HB) scaffolds on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), cultured in lowered (5%) oxygen concentration, was assessed. It was decided to use a 5% oxygen concentration in the culture to mimic the conditions that would be found in damaged bone in a living organism during regeneration. Scaffolds enabled cell migration and sufficient flow of the culture medium, ensuring high cell viability. Furthermore, in composites with etched βTCP, the MSCs adhesion was facilitated by hydrophilic ceramic protrusions which reduced hydrophobicity. The developed materials are potential candidates for bone tissue regeneration. Nevertheless, to confirm this hypothesis, in vivo studies should be performed.

Improvement in Solubility-Permeability Interplay of Psoralens from Brosimum gaudichaudii Plant Extract upon Complexation with Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin

Psoralen (PSO) and 5-methoxypsoralen (5-MOP) are widely used drugs in oral photochemotherapy against vitiligo and major bioactive components of root bark extract of Brosimum gaudichaudii Trécul (EBGT), previously standardized by LC-MS. However, the exceptionally low water solubility of these psoralens can cause incomplete and variable bioavailability limiting their applications and patient adherence to treatment. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to investigate the effects of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) inclusion complex on the solubility and jejunal permeability of PSO and 5-MOP from EBGT. Characterization of inclusion complexes were evaluated by current methods in nuclear magnetic resonance studies on aqueous solution, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and scanning electron microscopy in solid state. Ex vivo rat jejunal permeability was also investigated and compared for both pure psoralens and plant extract formulation over a wide HP-β-CD concentration range (2.5 to 70 mM). Phase solubility studies of the PSO- and 5-MOP-HP-β-CD inclusion complex showed 1:1 inclusion complex formation with small stability constants (Kc < 500 M−1). PSO and 5-MOP permeability rate decreased after adding HP-β-CD by 6- and 4-fold for pure standards and EBGT markers, respectively. Nevertheless, the complexation with HP-β-CD significantly improved solubility of PSO (until 10-fold) and 5-MOP (until 31-fold). As a result, the permeability drop could be overcome by solubility augmentation, implying that the HP-β-CD inclusion complexes with PSO, 5-MOP, or EBGT can be a valuable tool for designing and developing novel oral drug product formulation containing these psoralens for the treatment of vitiligo.

A protocol for the cultivation and monitoring of ileal gut microbiota surrogates

AIMS

This research aimed to develop and validate a cultivation and monitoring protocol that is suitable for a surrogate microbial community that accounts for the gut microbiota of the ileum of the small intestine.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Five bacterial species have been selected as representatives of the ileal gut microbiota and a general anaerobic medium (MS-BHI, as minimally supplemented BHI) has been constructed and validated against BCCM/LGM recommended and commercial media. Moreover, appropriate selective/differential media have been investigated for monitoring each ileal gut microbiota surrogate. Results showed that MS-BHI was highly efficient in displaying individual and collective behavior of the ileal gut microbiota species, when compared with other types of media. Likewise, the selective/differential media managed to identify and describe the behavior of their targeted species.

CONCLUSIONS

MS-BHI renders a highly efficient, inexpensive and easy-to-prepare cultivation and enumeration alternative for the surrogate ileal microbiota species. Additionally, the selective/differential media can identify and quantify the bacteria of the surrogate ileal microbial community.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY

The selected gut microbiota species can represent an in vitro ileal community, forming the basis for future studies on small intestinal microbiota. MS-BHI and the proposed monitoring protocol can be used as a standard for gut microbiota studies that utilize conventional microbiological techniques.

Serum-Free Cultures: Could They Be a Future Direction to Improve Neuronal Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells?

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are undifferentiated cells with multilinear potential, known for their immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. Although the scientific community is working to improve their application, concerns limit their use to repair tissues following neurological damage. One of these obstacles is represented by the use of culture media supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS), which, due to its xenogenic nature and the risk of contamination, has increased scientific, ethical and safety problems. Therefore, the use of serum-free media could improve MSC culture methods, avoiding infectious and immunogenic transmission problems as well as MSC bioprocesses, without the use of animal components. The purpose of our review is to provide an overview of experimental studies that demonstrate that serum-free cultures, along with the supplementation of growth factors or chemicals, can lead to a more defined and controlled environment, enhancing the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of MSCs.

Cardiovascular Disease and Possible Ways in Which Lycopene Acts as an Efficient Cardio-Protectant against Different Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Foods rich in antioxidants such as lycopene have a major role in maintaining cardiac health. Lycopene, 80% of which can be obtained by consuming a common vegetable such as tomato, can prevent the disturbances that contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The present work begins with a brief introduction to CVD and lycopene and its various properties such as bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, etc. In this review, the potential cardio-protective effects of lycopene that reduce the progression of CVD and thrombotic complications are detailed. Further, the protective effects of lycopene including in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials conducted on lycopene for CVD protective effects are explained. Finally, the controversial aspect of lycopene as a protective agent against CVD and toxicity are also mentioned.

Synthesis and antinociceptive activity of four 1H-isoindolo-1,3(2H)-diones

The present study aimed to design and synthesize a series of 2-hydroxy-3-(4-aryl-1-piperazinyl)propyl phthalimide derivatives, which are analogs of 1H-pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine-1,3(2H)-dione derivatives with proven analgesic effect. In accordance with the basic principle proposed by Lipinski's rule, the probable bioavailabilities of the F1-F4 phthalimides were assessed. The obtained values indicate good absorption after oral administration and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. The four compounds F1-F4 differing in the type of pharmacophore in the phenyl group of the 2-hydroxy-3-(4-aryl-1-piperazinyl)propyl on the imide nitrogen atom (R, F1-F3) and the 4-benzhydryl analog (F4) were selected for in vitro and in vivo studies. Based on the in vitro studies, the effects of compounds F1-F4 on cell viability/proliferation and COX-2 levels were evaluated. Moreover, using in vivo methods, the compounds were tested for antinociceptive activity in models of acute pain (the writhing and the hot-plate tests) in mice. Their influence on the motor coordination effect and locomotor activity was also tested. The obtained results revealed that the compounds F1-F4 strongly suppress the pain of peripheral origin and to a lesser extent (F1-F3) pain of central/supraspinal origin. In the in vitro studies, F1-F4 reduced the COX-2 level in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 cells, which suggests their anti-inflammatory activity.

Zimbro (Juniperus communis L.) as a Promising Source of Bioactive Compounds and Biomedical Activities: A Review on Recent Trends

Plant-derived products and their extracted compounds have been used in folk medicine since early times. Zimbro or common juniper (Juniperus communis) is traditionally used to treat renal suppression, acute and chronic cystitis, bladder catarrh, albuminuria, leucorrhea, and amenorrhea. These uses are mainly attributed to its bioactive composition, which is very rich in phenolics, terpenoids, organic acids, alkaloids, and volatile compounds. In the last few years, several studies have analyzed the huge potential of this evergreen shrub, describing a wide range of activities with relevance in different biomedical discipline areas, namely antimicrobial potential against human pathogens and foodborne microorganisms, notorious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, antidiabetic, antihypercholesterolemic and antihyperlipidemic effects, and neuroprotective action, as well as antiproliferative ability against cancer cells and the ability to activate inductive hepato-, renal- and gastroprotective mechanisms. Owing to these promising activities, extracts and bioactive compounds of juniper could be useful for the development of new pharmacological applications in the treatment of several acute and chronic human diseases.

Stepwise Protocols for Preparation and Use of Porcine Ear Skin for in Vitro Skin Permeation Studies Using Franz Diffusion Cells

The skin, the largest organ of the body, is an attractive route of topical and systemic drug administration. During the development of topical formulations, in vitro skin permeation studies using biological membranes mounted in Franz diffusion cells are a useful tool to assess the permeation of substances through the skin, and are recommended by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Among the types of biological membranes used in such studies, porcine ear skin has been identified as the most promising, due to its similarities to human skin and its greater accessibility as compared to human skin. To standardize techniques for the preparation and use of porcine ear skin as biological membrane, here we present systematic procedures for the selection of porcine ears, their cleaning, the removal of skin from cartilage, its transformation into membranes, and its use for the in vitro assessment of the permeation of drugs from topical formulations. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Obtaining porcine ear membranes Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of membranes from porcine ear skin and use of membranes for in vitro skin permeation studies.

An Outer Membrane Vesicle-Based Permeation Assay (OMPA) for Assessing Bacterial Bioavailability

When searching for new antibiotics against Gram-negative bacterial infections, a better understanding of the permeability across the cell envelope and tools to discriminate high from low bacterial bioavailability compounds are urgently needed. Inspired by the phospholipid vesicle-based permeation assay (PVPA), which is designed to predict non-facilitated permeation across phospholipid membranes, outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of Escherichia coli either enriched or deficient of porins are employed to coat filter supports for predicting drug uptake across the complex cell envelope. OMVs and the obtained in vitro model are structurally and functionally characterized using cryo-TEM, SEM, CLSM, SAXS, and light scattering techniques. In vitro permeability, obtained from the membrane model for a set of nine antibiotics, correlates with reported in bacterio accumulation data and allows to discriminate high from low accumulating antibiotics. In contrast, the correlation of the same data set generated by liposome-based comparator membranes is poor. This better correlation of the OMV-derived membranes points to the importance of hydrophilic membrane components, such as lipopolysaccharides and porins, since those features are lacking in liposomal comparator membranes. This approach can offer in the future a high throughput screening tool with high predictive capacity or can help to identify compound- and bacteria-specific passive uptake pathways.

Cerebral Biomarkers and Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity in Preeclampsia

Cerebral complications in preeclampsia contribute substantially to maternal mortality and morbidity. There is a lack of reliable and accessible predictors for preeclampsia-related cerebral complications. In this study, plasma from women with preeclampsia (n = 28), women with normal pregnancies (n = 28) and non-pregnant women (n = 16) was analyzed for concentrations of the cerebral biomarkers neurofilament light (NfL), tau, neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and S100B. Then, an in vitro blood−brain barrier (BBB) model, based on the human cerebral microvascular endothelial cell line (hCMEC/D3), was employed to assess the effect of plasma from the three study groups. Transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) was used as an estimation of BBB integrity. NfL and tau are proteins expressed in axons, NSE in neurons and S100B in glial cells and are used as biomarkers for neurological injury in other diseases such as dementia, traumatic brain injury and hypoxic brain injury. Plasma concentrations of NfL, tau, NSE and S100B were all higher in women with preeclampsia compared with women with normal pregnancies (8.85 vs. 5.25 ng/L, p < 0.001; 2.90 vs. 2.40 ng/L, p < 0.05; 3.50 vs. 2.37 µg/L, p < 0.001 and 0.08 vs. 0.05 µg/L, p < 0.01, respectively). Plasma concentrations of NfL were also higher in women with preeclampsia compared with non-pregnant women (p < 0.001). Higher plasma concentrations of the cerebral biomarker NfL were associated with decreased TEER (p = 0.002) in an in vitro model of the BBB, a finding which indicates that NfL could be a promising biomarker for BBB alterations in preeclampsia.

Isolation and biological evaluation 7-hydroxy flavone from Avicennia officinalis L: insights from extensive in vitro, DFT, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies

The flavonoid based 7-hydroxy flavone (PubChem CID: 5281894; molecular formula: C₁₅H₁₀O₃) molecule has been isolated for the first time from the methanolic extract from the leaves of Avicennia officinalis L. in the tropical mangrove ecosystem of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI), India. The molecular structure of bioactive compound was characterized by spectroscopic analysis, including FT-IR, ¹H, ¹³C NMR spectroscopy and ESI-HRMS and elucidated as 7-hydroxy flavone. An anticancer activity of isolated 7-hydroxy flavone was evaluated by in vitro study against two different human cancer cell lines namely, HeLa (cervical cells) and MDA-MB231 (breast cells) and they exhibited promising anticancer activity with IC₅₀ values are 22.5602 ± 0.21 µg/mL and 3.86474 ± 0.35 µg/mL, respectively. The antioxidant property of 7-hydroxy flavone at a standard concentration of 50 µg, was found to be (IC₅₀) 5.5486 ± 0.81 µg/mL. In summary, this investigation provides evidence that 7-hydroxy flavone exhibits both anticancer and antioxidant properties. Meanwhile, the antimicrobial activity ability of 7-hydroxy flavone were also evaluated using three Gram positive and two Gram negative strain exhibited no antimicrobial activities. Density-functional theory (DFT) studies confirm the structure is global minima in the PES, from the optimized geometry FMO and MESP map analyzed. Further, the molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies result shows that 7-hydroxy flavone has the better binding ability with anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein with the estimated free energy of binding of -6.3 kcal/mol. This bioactive compound may be act as drug candidate for treating various kinds of cancers. HighlightsA 7-hydroxy flavone molecule has been isolated from Avicennia officinalis.The isolated pure compound was subjected to spectral analysis such as FT-IR, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR spectral data and HRMS analysis for skeleton of the molecule.The anticancer activity of 7-hydroxy flavone studied against Cervical (HeLa) cancer cell lines and breast (MDA-MB231) cancer cell lines with the IC₅₀ values of 22.5602 ± 0.21 µg/mL and 3.86474 ± 0.35 µg/mL), respectively.The antioxidant properties of 7-hydroxy flavone were found to be (IC₅₀) 5.5486 ± 0.81 µg/mL at a standard concentration of 50 µg.DFT, molecular docking and MD simulation results explained that 7-hydroxy flavone could be the most promising candidate to inhibit the function of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein in cancerous cell.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Accuracy of Digital Dental Implants Impression Taking with Intraoral Scanners Compared with Conventional Impression Techniques: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the in vitro accuracy of dental implants impressions taken with intraoral scanner compared with impressions taken with conventional techniques. Two independent reviewers conducted a systematic electronic search in the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases. Some of the employed key terms, combined with the help of Boolean operators, were: "dental implants", "impression accuracy", "digital impression" and "conventional impression". Publication dates ranged from the earliest article available until 31 July 2021. A total of 26 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria: 14 studies simulated complete edentation (CE), nine partial edentation (PE) and only two simulated a single implant (SI); One study simulated both CE and SI. In cases of PE and SI, most of the studies analyzed found greater accuracy with conventional impression (CI), although digital impression (DI) was also considered adequate. For CE the findings were inconclusive as six studies found greater accuracy with DI, five found better accuracy with CI and four found no differences. According to the results of this systematic review, DI is a valid alternative to CI for implants in PE and SI, although CI appear to be more accurate. For CE the findings were inconclusive, so more studies are needed before DI can be recommended for all implant-supported restorations.

Biocompatibility and cytotoxicity in vitro of surface-functionalized drug-loaded spinel ferrite nanoparticles

In this study, poly(isobutylene-alt-maleic anhydride) (PMA)-coated spinel ferrite (MFe2O4, where M = Fe, Co, Ni, or Zn) nanoparticles (NPs) were developed as carriers of the anticancer drugs doxorubicin (DOX) and methotrexate (MTX). Physical characterizations confirmed the formation of pure cubic structures (14-22 nm) with magnetic properties. Drug-loaded NPs exhibited tumor specificity with significantly higher (p < 0.005) drug release in an acidic environment (pH 5.5). The nanoparticles were highly colloidal (zeta potential = -35 to -26 mV) in deionized water, phosphate buffer saline (PBS), and sodium borate buffer (SBB). They showed elevated and dose-dependent cytotoxicity in vitro compared to free drug controls. The IC50 values ranged from 0.81 to 3.97 μg/mL for HepG2 and HT144 cells, whereas IC50 values for normal lymphocytes were 10 to 35 times higher (18.35-43.04 µg/mL). Cobalt ferrite (CFO) and zinc ferrite (ZFO) NPs were highly genotoxic (p < 0.05) in cancer cell lines. The nanoparticles caused cytotoxicity via oxidative stress, causing DNA damage and activation of p53-mediated cell cycle arrest (significantly elevated expression, p < 0.005, majorly G1 and G2/M arrest) and apoptosis. Cytotoxicity testing in 3D spheroids showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in spheroid diameter and up to 74 ± 8.9% of cell death after two weeks. In addition, they also inhibited multidrug resistance (MDR) pump activity in both cell lines suggesting effectivity in MDR cancers. Among the tested MFe2O4 NPs, CFO nanocarriers were the most favorable for targeted cancer therapy due to excellent magnetic, colloidal, cytotoxic, and biocompatible aspects. However, detailed mechanistic, in vivo cytotoxicity, and magnetic-field-assisted studies are required to fully exploit these nanocarriers in therapeutic applications.

Systematic Reviews and Quality Appraisal of In Vitro Cancer Studies: Investigation of Current Practice

BACKGROUND/AIM

To assess the quantity and quality of systematic reviews of in vitro cancer studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Knowledge and PROSPERO databases were searched. Articles described as systematic reviews of in vitro studies, focused on or relevant to cancer and published in English were selected and appraised using an adapted version of AMSTAR 2 'critical domains'.

RESULTS

From 4,021 records, 41 reviews described as systematic and cancer-related were identified. Publication dates indicate increasing frequency of systematic review conduct. Mean number of databases searched was three (range=1-8). Thirty-six reviews (88%) reported search methods, 35 (85%) specified inclusion criteria, 26 (63%) reported study selection methods, and 21 (51%) used reporting guidelines. Only 13 reviews (32%) involved formal quality assessment.

CONCLUSION

Detailed investigation of reviews of cancer-relevant in vitro studies indicates need for further development and use of robust search strategies, appropriate quality assessment tools, and researchers with relevant skills.

A Brief Updated Review of Advances to Enhance Resveratrol's Bioavailability

Resveratrol (RES) has a low bioavailability. This limitation was addressed in an earlier review and several recommendations were offered. A literature search was conducted in order to determine the extent of the research that was conducted in line with these recommendations, along with new developments in this field. Most of the identified studies were pre-clinical and confirmed the heightened activity of RES analogues compared to their parent compound. Although this has provided additional scientific kudos for these compounds and has strengthened their potential to be developed into phytopharmaceutical products, clinical trials designed to confirm this increased activity remain lacking and are warranted.

Evaluation for Potential Drug-Drug Interaction of MT921 Using In Vitro Studies and Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Models

MT921 is a new injectable drug developed by Medytox Inc. to reduce submental fat. Cholic acid is the active pharmaceutical ingredient, a primary bile acid biosynthesized from cholesterol, endogenously produced by liver in humans and other mammals. Although individuals treated with MT921 could be administered with multiple medications, such as those for hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, the pharmacokinetic drug–drug interaction (DDI) has not been investigated yet. Therefore, we studied in vitro against drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters. Moreover, we predicted the potential DDI between MT921 and drugs for chronic diseases using physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and simulation. The magnitude of DDI was found to be negligible in in vitro inhibition and induction of cytochrome P450s and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. Organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B3, organic anion transporter (OAT)3, Na⁺-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP), and apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (ASBT) are mainly involved in MT921 transport. Based on the result of in vitro experiments, the PBPK model of MT921 was developed and evaluated by clinical data. Furthermore, the PBPK model of amlodipine was developed and evaluated. PBPK DDI simulation results indicated that the pharmacokinetics of MT921 was not affected by the perpetrator drugs. In conclusion, MT921 could be administered without a DDI risk based on in vitro study and related in silico simulation. Further clinical studies are needed to validate this finding.

Functional analysis of novel genetic variants of NKX2-5 associated with nonsyndromic congenital heart disease

NKX2-5, a master cardiac regulatory transcription factor was the first known genetic cause of congenital heart diseases (CHDs). To further investigate its role in CHD pathogenesis, we performed mutational screening of 285 CHD probands and 200 healthy controls. Five coding sequence variants were identified in six CHD cases (2.1%), including three in the N-terminal region (p.A61G, p.R95L, and p.E131K) and one each in homeodomain (HD) (p.A148E) and tyrosine-rich domain (p.P247A). Variant-p.A148E showed tertiary structure changes and differential DNA binding affinity of mutant compared to wild type. Two N-terminal variants-p.A61G and p.E131K along with HD variant p.A148E demonstrated significantly reduced transcriptional activity of Nppa and Actc1 promoters in dual luciferase promoter assay supported by their reduced expression in qRT-PCR. Nonetheless, variant p.R95L affected the synergy of NKX2-5 with serum response factor and TBX5 leading to significantly decreased Actc1 promoter activity depicting a distinctive role of this region. The aberrant expression of other target genes-Irx4, Mef2c, Bmp10, Myh6, Myh7, and Myocd is also observed in response to NKX2-5 variants, possibly due to the defective gene regulatory network. Severely impaired downstream promoter activities and abnormal expression of target genes due to N-terminal variants supports the emerging role of this region during cardiac-developmental pathways.