Molecules

794 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microwave-Assisted Condensation Reactions of Acetophenone Derivatives and Activated Methylene Compounds with Aldehydes Catalyzed by Boric Acid under Solvent-Free Conditions

by Elodie Brun, Abdelmounaim Safer, François Carreaux, Khadidja Bourahla, Jean-Martial L'helgoua'ch, Jean-Pierre Bazureau and Jose Manuel Villalgordo

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11617-11631; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611617 - 23 Jun 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7746

Abstract

We here disclosed a new protocol for the condensation of acetophenone derivatives and active methylene compounds with aldehydes in the presence of boric acid under microwave conditions. Implementation of the reaction is simple, healthy and environmentally friendly owing to the use of a [...] Read more.

We here disclosed a new protocol for the condensation of acetophenone derivatives and active methylene compounds with aldehydes in the presence of boric acid under microwave conditions. Implementation of the reaction is simple, healthy and environmentally friendly owing to the use of a non-toxic catalyst coupled to a solvent-free procedure. A large variety of known or novel compounds have thus been prepared, including with substrates bearing acid or base-sensitive functional groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis)

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2371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Korean Red Ginseng against Alcohol-Induced Fatty Liver in Rats

by Hyo Jin Lee, Hyang Mok Ok and Oran Kwon

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11604-11616; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611604 - 23 Jun 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7317

Abstract

The present study tested the hypothesis that Korean red ginseng (KRG) provides a protective effect against alcoholic fatty liver. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups and fed a modified Lieber-DeCarli diet containing 5% (w/v) alcohol or an [...] Read more.

The present study tested the hypothesis that Korean red ginseng (KRG) provides a protective effect against alcoholic fatty liver. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups and fed a modified Lieber-DeCarli diet containing 5% (w/v) alcohol or an isocaloric amount of dextrin-maltose for the controls for 6 weeks: normal control (CON), alcohol control (ET), and ET treated with 125 or 250 mg/kg body weight/day of KRG (RGL or RGH, respectively). Compared with the CON group, the ET group exhibited a significant increase in triglycerides, total cholesterol and the presence of lipid droplets in the liver, and a decrease in fat mass, which were all attenuated by KRG supplementation in adose-dependent manner. The mitigation was accompanied by AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways in the liver and adipose tissue. In addition, suppression in the alcohol-induced changes of adipose adipokine mRNA expression was also observed in KRG supplementation group. These findings suggest that KRG may have the potential to ameliorate alcoholic fatty liver by suppressing inappropriate lysis of adipose tissue and preventing unnecessary de novo lipogenesis in the liver, which are mediated by AMPK signaling pathways. A mechanism for an interplay between the two organs is still needed to be examined with further assays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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2526 KiB

Open AccessReview

Surfing the Protein-Protein Interaction Surface Using Docking Methods: Application to the Design of PPI Inhibitors

by Rushikesh Sable and Seetharama Jois

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11569-11603; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611569 - 23 Jun 2015

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 14720

Abstract

Blocking protein-protein interactions (PPI) using small molecules or peptides modulates biochemical pathways and has therapeutic significance. PPI inhibition for designing drug-like molecules is a new area that has been explored extensively during the last decade. Considering the number of available PPI inhibitor databases [...] Read more.

Blocking protein-protein interactions (PPI) using small molecules or peptides modulates biochemical pathways and has therapeutic significance. PPI inhibition for designing drug-like molecules is a new area that has been explored extensively during the last decade. Considering the number of available PPI inhibitor databases and the limited number of 3D structures available for proteins, docking and scoring methods play a major role in designing PPI inhibitors as well as stabilizers. Docking methods are used in the design of PPI inhibitors at several stages of finding a lead compound, including modeling the protein complex, screening for hot spots on the protein-protein interaction interface and screening small molecules or peptides that bind to the PPI interface. There are three major challenges to the use of docking on the relatively flat surfaces of PPI. In this review we will provide some examples of the use of docking in PPI inhibitor design as well as its limitations. The combination of experimental and docking methods with improved scoring function has thus far resulted in few success stories of PPI inhibitors for therapeutic purposes. Docking algorithms used for PPI are in the early stages, however, and as more data are available docking will become a highly promising area in the design of PPI inhibitors or stabilizers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Docking in Drug Design)

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728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trypanocidal Activity of Long Chain Diamines and Aminoalcohols

by Ana L. Legarda-Ceballos, Esther Del Olmo, Julio López-Abán, Ricardo Escarcena, Luis A. Bustos, Cristina Fonseca-Berzal, Alicia Gómez-Barrio, Juan C. Dib, Arturo San Feliciano and Antonio Muro

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11554-11568; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611554 - 23 Jun 2015

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5403

Abstract

Thirteen aminoalcohols and eight diamines were obtained and tested against Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes strains MG, JEM and CL-B5 clone. Some of them were equal or more potent (1.0–6.6 times) than the reference compound nifurtimox. From them, three aminoalcohols and two diamines were selected [...] Read more.

Thirteen aminoalcohols and eight diamines were obtained and tested against Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes strains MG, JEM and CL-B5 clone. Some of them were equal or more potent (1.0–6.6 times) than the reference compound nifurtimox. From them, three aminoalcohols and two diamines were selected for amastigotes assays. Compound 5 was as potent as the reference drug nifurtimox against amastigotes of the CL-B5 strain (IC₅₀ = 0.6 µM), with a selectivity index of 54. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antiparasitic Agents)

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Open AccessArticle

Uses of 3-(2-Bromoacetyl)-2H-chromen-2-one in the Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds Incorporating Coumarin: Synthesis, Characterization and Cytotoxicity

by Rafat M. Mohareb and Nadia Y. MegallyAbdo

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11535-11553; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611535 - 23 Jun 2015

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7258

Abstract

In this work, 3-bromoacetylcoumarin was used as the key starting material for the synthesis of pyran, pyridine, thiophene, thiazole and pyrazole derivatives through its reaction with different reagents. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed on the basis of their spectral [...] Read more.

In this work, 3-bromoacetylcoumarin was used as the key starting material for the synthesis of pyran, pyridine, thiophene, thiazole and pyrazole derivatives through its reaction with different reagents. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed on the basis of their spectral data and elemental analyses. All of the synthesized compounds were screened for their in vitro anticancer activity against six human cancer cell lines, namely: human gastric cancer (NUGC), human colon cancer (DLD1), human liver cancer (HA22T and HEPG2), nasopharyngeal carcinoma (HONE1), human breast cancer (MCF) and normal fibroblast cells (WI38). The IC₅₀ values (the sample concentration that produces 50% reduction in cell growth) in nanomolars (nM)) showed most of the compounds exhibited significant cytotoxic effect. Among these derivatives, compound 6d showed almost equipotent cytotoxic activity against NUGC (IC₅₀ = 29 nM) compared to the standard CHS 828 (IC₅₀ = 25 nM). Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Heterocyclic Compounds)

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2100 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combinational Treatment of Curcumin and Quercetin against Gastric Cancer MGC-803 Cells in Vitro

by Jian-Ye Zhang, Min-Ting Lin, Meng-Jia Zhou, Tao Yi, Yi-Na Tang, Si-Li Tang, Zhi-Jun Yang, Zhong-Zhen Zhao and Hu-Biao Chen

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11524-11534; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611524 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 99 | Viewed by 9535

Abstract

Gastric cancer remains a major health problem worldwide. Natural products, with stronger antitumor activity and fewer side effects, are potential candidates for pharmaceutical development as anticancer agents. In this study, quercetin and curcumin were chosen for testing and were applied separately and in [...] Read more.

Gastric cancer remains a major health problem worldwide. Natural products, with stronger antitumor activity and fewer side effects, are potential candidates for pharmaceutical development as anticancer agents. In this study, quercetin and curcumin were chosen for testing and were applied separately and in combination to human gastric cancer MGC-803 cells. The MTT assay was used to evaluate cell growth inhibition. Annexin V-FITC/PI was carried out to measure apoptosis rate. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze mitochondrial membrane potential levels. Western blots were applied to detect expression of cytochrome c, total and phosphorylated ERK and AKT. Combined treatment with curcumin and quercetin resulted in significant inhibition of cell proliferation, accompanied by loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), release of cytochrome c and decreased phosphorylation of AKT and ERK. These results indicate that the combination of curcumin and quercetin induces apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. Notably, effect of combined treatment with curcumin and quercetin on gastric cancer MGC-803 cells is stronger than that of individual treatment, indicating that curcumin and quercetin combinations have potential as anti-gastric cancer drugs for further development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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3694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ethanolic Extracts of Pluchea indica Induce Apoptosis and Antiproliferation Effects in Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells

by Chiu-Li Kao, Joshua Cho, Ya-Zhe Lee, Yuan-Bin Cheng, Chih-Yen Chien, Chung-Feng Hwang, Yi-Ren Hong, Chao-Neng Tseng and Chung-Lung Cho

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11508-11523; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611508 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6536

Abstract

Pluchea indica is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of lumbago, ulcer, tuberculosis and inflammation. The anti-cancer activities and the underlying molecular mechanisms of the ethanolic extracts of P. indica root (PIRE) were characterized in the present study. PIRE strongly inhibited [...] Read more.

Pluchea indica is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of lumbago, ulcer, tuberculosis and inflammation. The anti-cancer activities and the underlying molecular mechanisms of the ethanolic extracts of P. indica root (PIRE) were characterized in the present study. PIRE strongly inhibited the viability of the human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells (NPC-TW 01 and NPC-TW 04) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Migration of cancer cells was also suppressed by PIRE. In addition, PIRE significantly increased the occurrence of the cells in sub-G1 phase and the extent of DNA fragmentation in a dose-dependent manner, which indicates that PIRE significantly increased apoptosis in NPC cells. The apoptotic process triggered by PIRE involved up-regulation of pro-apoptotic Bax protein and down-regulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein, consequently increasing the ratios of Bax/Bcl-2 protein levels. Moreover, the p53 protein was up-regulated by PIRE in a concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, PIRE could induce the apoptosis-signaling pathway in NPC cells by activation of p53 and by regulation of apoptosis-related proteins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant Capacities and Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Three Endemic Nolana Species by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS

by Mario J. Simirgiotis, Julio Benites, Carlos Areche and Beatriz Sepúlveda

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11490-11507; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611490 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 107 | Viewed by 8067

Abstract

The antioxidant features, polyphenolic composition and chromatographic fingerprints of the aerial parts from three Chilean endemic plants from the Paposo Valley located on the cost of the Atacama Desert were investigated for the first time using high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode [...] Read more.

The antioxidant features, polyphenolic composition and chromatographic fingerprints of the aerial parts from three Chilean endemic plants from the Paposo Valley located on the cost of the Atacama Desert were investigated for the first time using high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detector and electrospray ionization mass analysis (HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS) and spectroscopic methods. The phenolic fingerprints obtained for the plants were compared and correlated with the antioxidant capacities measured by the bleaching of the DPPH radical, the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and quantification of the total content of phenolics and flavonoids measured by spectroscopic methods. Thirty phenolics were identified for the first time for these species, mostly phenolic acids, flavanones, flavonols and some of their glycoside derivatives, together with three saturated fatty acids (stearic, palmitic and arachidic acids). Nolana ramosissima showed the highest antioxidant activity (26.35 ± 1.02 μg/mL, 116.07 ± 3.42 μM Trolox equivalents/g dry weight and 81.23% ± 3.77% of inhibition in the DPPH, FRAP and scavenging activity (SA) assays, respectively), followed by N. aplocaryoides (85.19 ± 1.64 μg/mL, 65.87 ± 2.33 μM TE/g DW and 53.27% ± 3.07%) and N. leptophylla (124.71 ± 3.01, 44.23 ± 5.18 μM TE/g DW and 38.63% ± 1.85%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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1141 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Plant Alkaloid (Emetine) Inhibits HIV-1 Replication by Interfering with Reverse Transcriptase Activity

by Ana Luiza Chaves Valadão, Celina Monteiro Abreu, Juliana Zanatta Dias, Pablo Arantes, Hugo Verli, Amilcar Tanuri and Renato Santana De Aguiar

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11474-11489; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611474 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 9164

Abstract

Ipecac alkaloids are secondary metabolites produced in the medicinal plant Psychotria ipecacuanha. Emetine is the main alkaloid of ipecac and one of the active compounds in syrup of Ipecac with emetic property. Here we evaluated emetine’s potential as an antiviral agent against [...] Read more.

Ipecac alkaloids are secondary metabolites produced in the medicinal plant Psychotria ipecacuanha. Emetine is the main alkaloid of ipecac and one of the active compounds in syrup of Ipecac with emetic property. Here we evaluated emetine’s potential as an antiviral agent against Human Immunodeficiency Virus. We performed in vitro Reverse Transcriptase (RT) Assay and Natural Endogenous Reverse Transcriptase Activity Assay (NERT) to evaluate HIV RT inhibition. Emetine molecular docking on HIV-1 RT was also analyzed. Phenotypic assays were performed in non-lymphocytic and in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC) with HIV-1 wild-type and HIV-harboring RT-resistant mutation to Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (M184V). Our results showed that HIV-1 RT was blocked in the presence of emetine in both models: in vitro reactions with isolated HIV-1 RT and intravirion, measured by NERT. Emetine revealed a strong potential of inhibiting HIV-1 replication in both cellular models, reaching 80% of reduction in HIV-1 infection, with low cytotoxic effect. Emetine also blocked HIV-1 infection of RT M184V mutant. These results suggest that emetine is able to penetrate in intact HIV particles, and bind and block reverse transcription reaction, suggesting that it can be used as anti-HIV microbicide. Taken together, our findings provide additional pharmacological information on the potential therapeutic effects of emetine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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1021 KiB

Open AccessReview

Plasmodium falciparum Thioredoxin Reductase (PfTrxR) and Its Role as a Target for New Antimalarial Discovery

by Sara E. McCarty, Amanda Schellenberger, Douglas C. Goodwin, Ngolui Rene Fuanta, Babu L. Tekwani and Angela I. Calderón

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11459-11473; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611459 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7174

Abstract

The growing resistance to current antimalarial drugs is a major concern for global public health. The pressing need for new antimalarials has led to an increase in research focused on the Plasmodium parasites that cause human malaria. Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), an enzyme needed [...] Read more.

The growing resistance to current antimalarial drugs is a major concern for global public health. The pressing need for new antimalarials has led to an increase in research focused on the Plasmodium parasites that cause human malaria. Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), an enzyme needed to maintain redox equilibrium in Plasmodium species, is a promising target for new antimalarials. This review paper provides an overview of the structure and function of TrxR, discusses similarities and differences between the thioredoxin reductases (TrxRs) of different Plasmodium species and the human forms of the enzyme, gives an overview of modeling Plasmodium infections in animals, and suggests the role of Trx functions in antimalarial drug resistance. TrxR of Plasmodium falciparum is a central focus of this paper since it is the only Plasmodium TrxR that has been crystallized and P. falciparum is the species that causes most malaria cases. It is anticipated that the information summarized here will give insight and stimulate new directions in which research might be most beneficial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thioredoxin and Glutathione Systems)

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Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Volatile Compounds of Eleven Achillea Species from Turkey and Biological Activities of Essential Oil and Methanol Extract of A. hamzaoglui Arabacı & Budak

by Fatma Pinar Turkmenoglu, Osman Tuncay Agar, Galip Akaydin, Mutlu Hayran and Betul Demirci

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11432-11458; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611432 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 8023

Abstract

According to distribution of genus Achillea, two main centers of diversity occur in S.E. Europe and S.W. Asia. Diversified essential oil compositions from Balkan Peninsula have been numerously reported. However, report on essential oils of Achillea species growing in Turkey, which is [...] Read more.

According to distribution of genus Achillea, two main centers of diversity occur in S.E. Europe and S.W. Asia. Diversified essential oil compositions from Balkan Peninsula have been numerously reported. However, report on essential oils of Achillea species growing in Turkey, which is one of the main centers of diversity, is very limited. This paper represents the chemical compositions of the essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation from the aerial parts of eleven Achillea species, identified simultaneously by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The main components were found to be 1,8-cineole, p-cymene, viridiflorol, nonacosane, α-bisabolol, caryophyllene oxide, α-bisabolon oxide A, β-eudesmol, 15-hexadecanolide and camphor. The chemical principal component analysis based on thirty compounds identified three species groups and a subgroup, where each group constituted a chemotype. This is the first report on the chemical composition of A. hamzaoglui essential oil; as well as the antioxidant and antimicrobial evaluation of its essential oil and methanolic extract. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Recent Advances in Flavors and Fragrances)

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Open AccessArticle

Synthesis of (E)-2-Styrylchromones and Flavones by Base-Catalyzed Cyclodehydration of the Appropriate β-Diketones Using Water as Solvent

by Joana Pinto, Vera L. M. Silva, Ana M. G. Silva and Artur M. S. Silva

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11418-11431; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611418 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7571

Abstract

A low cost, safe, clean and environmentally benign base-catalyzed cyclodehydration of appropriate β-diketones affording (E)-2-styrylchromones and flavones in good yields is disclosed. Water was used as solvent and the reactions were heated using classical and microwave heating methods, under open and [...] Read more.

A low cost, safe, clean and environmentally benign base-catalyzed cyclodehydration of appropriate β-diketones affording (E)-2-styrylchromones and flavones in good yields is disclosed. Water was used as solvent and the reactions were heated using classical and microwave heating methods, under open and closed vessel conditions. β-Diketones having electron-donating and withdrawing substituents were used to evaluate the reaction scope. The reaction products were isolated in high purity by simple filtration and recrystallization from ethanol, when using 800 mg of the starting diketone under classical reflux heating conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontier in Green Chemistry Approaches)

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Open AccessArticle

Development of a Large Set of Microsatellite Markers in Zapote Mamey (Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore & Stearn) and Their Potential Use in the Study of the Species

by Renée S. Arias, Jaime Martínez-Castillo, Victor S. Sobolev, Nasib H. Blancarte-Jasso, Sheron A. Simpson, Linda L. Ballard, Mary V. Duke, Xiaofen F. Liu, Brian M. Irish and Brian E. Scheffler

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11400-11417; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611400 - 22 Jun 2015

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6270

Abstract

Pouteria sapota is known for its edible fruits that contain unique carotenoids, as well as for its fungitoxic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity. However, its genetics is mostly unknown, including aspects about its genetic diversity and domestication process. We did high-throughput sequencing of microsatellite-enriched [...] Read more.

Pouteria sapota is known for its edible fruits that contain unique carotenoids, as well as for its fungitoxic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity. However, its genetics is mostly unknown, including aspects about its genetic diversity and domestication process. We did high-throughput sequencing of microsatellite-enriched libraries of P. sapota, generated 5223 contig DNA sequences, 1.8 Mbp, developed 368 microsatellites markers and tested them on 29 individuals from 10 populations (seven wild, three cultivated) from Mexico, its putative domestication center. Gene ontology BLAST analysis of the DNA sequences containing microsatellites showed potential association to physiological functions. Genetic diversity was slightly higher in cultivated than in the wild gene pool (H_E = 0.41 and H_E = 0.35, respectively), although modified Garza–Williamson Index and Bottleneck software showed evidence for a reduction in genetic diversity for the cultivated one. Neighbor Joining, 3D Principal Coordinates Analysis and assignment tests grouped most individuals according to their geographic origin but no clear separation was observed between wild or cultivated gene pools due to, perhaps, the existence of several admixed populations. The developed microsatellites have a great potential in genetic population and domestication studies of P. sapota but additional sampling will be necessary to better understand how the domestication process has impacted the genetic diversity of this fruit crop. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Diversity)

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3086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Xanthones from the Leaves of Garcinia cowa Induce Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis, and Autophagy in Cancer Cells

by Zhengxiang Xia, Hong Zhang, Danqing Xu, Yuanzhi Lao, Wenwei Fu, Hongsheng Tan, Peng Cao, Ling Yang and Hongxi Xu

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11387-11399; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611387 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8072

Abstract

Two new xanthones, cowaxanthones G (1) and H (2), and 23 known analogues were isolated from an acetone extract of the leaves of Garcinia cowa. The isolated compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity against three cancer cell lines and [...] Read more.

Two new xanthones, cowaxanthones G (1) and H (2), and 23 known analogues were isolated from an acetone extract of the leaves of Garcinia cowa. The isolated compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity against three cancer cell lines and immortalized HL7702 normal liver cells, whereby compounds 1, 5, 8, and 15–17 exhibited significant cytotoxicity. Cell cycle analysis using flow cytometry showed that 5 induced cell cycle arrest at the S phase in a dose-dependent manner, 1 and 16 at the G2/M phase, and 17 at the G1 phase, while 16 and 17 induced apoptosis. Moreover, autophagy analysis by GFP-LC3 puncta formation and western blotting suggested that 17 induced autophagy. Taken together, our results suggest that these xanthones possess anticancer activities targeting cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy signaling pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coumarins, Xanthones and Related Compounds)

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1980 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Covalently Cross-Linked Arabinoxylans Films for Debaryomyces hansenii Entrapment

by Ramsés González-Estrada, Montserrat Calderón-Santoyo, Elizabeth Carvajal-Millan, Felipe De Jesús Ascencio Valle, Juan Arturo Ragazzo-Sánchez, Francisco Brown-Bojorquez and Agustín Rascón-Chu

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11373-11386; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611373 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5693

Abstract

In the present study, wheat water extractable arabinoxylans (WEAX) were isolated and characterized, and their capability to form covalently cross-linked films in presence of Debaryomyces hansenii was evaluated. WEAX presented an arabinose to xylose ratio of 0.60, a ferulic acid and diferulic acid [...] Read more.

In the present study, wheat water extractable arabinoxylans (WEAX) were isolated and characterized, and their capability to form covalently cross-linked films in presence of Debaryomyces hansenii was evaluated. WEAX presented an arabinose to xylose ratio of 0.60, a ferulic acid and diferulic acid content of 2.1 and 0.04 µg∙mg⁻¹ WEAX, respectively and a Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) spectrum typical of WEAX. The intrinsic viscosity and viscosimetric molecular weight values for WEAX were 3.6 dL∙g⁻¹ and 440 kDa, respectively. The gelation of WEAX (1% w/v) with and without D. hansenii (1 × 10⁷ CFU∙cm⁻²) was rheologically investigated by small amplitude oscillatory shear. The entrapment of D. hansenii decreased gel elasticity from 1.4 to 0.3 Pa, probably by affecting the physical interactions between WEAX chains. Covalently cross-linked WEAX films containing D. hansenii were prepared by casting. Scanning electron microscopy images show that WEAX films containing D. hansenii were porous and consisted of granular-like and fibre microstructures. Average tensile strength, elongation at break and Young’s modulus values dropped when D. hansenii was present in the film. Covalently cross-lined WEAX containing D. hansenii could be a suitable as a functional entrapping film. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle

Individual Constituents from Essential Oils Inhibit Biofilm Mass Production by Multi-Drug Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

by Laura Espina, Rafael Pagán, Daniel López and Diego García-Gonzalo

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11357-11372; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611357 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 7161

Abstract

Biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus represents a problem in both the medical field and the food industry, because the biofilm structure provides protection to embedded cells and it strongly attaches to surfaces. This circumstance is leading to many research programs seeking new alternatives [...] Read more.

Biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus represents a problem in both the medical field and the food industry, because the biofilm structure provides protection to embedded cells and it strongly attaches to surfaces. This circumstance is leading to many research programs seeking new alternatives to control biofilm formation by this pathogen. In this study we show that a potent inhibition of biofilm mass production can be achieved in community-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (CA-MRSA) and methicillin-sensitive strains using plant compounds, such as individual constituents (ICs) of essential oils (carvacrol, citral, and (+)-limonene). The Crystal Violet staining technique was used to evaluate biofilm mass formation during 40 h of incubation. Carvacrol is the most effective IC, abrogating biofilm formation in all strains tested, while CA-MRSA was the most sensitive phenotype to any of the ICs tested. Inhibition of planktonic cells by ICs during initial growth stages could partially explain the inhibition of biofilm formation. Overall, our results show the potential of EOs to prevent biofilm formation, especially in strains that exhibit resistance to other antimicrobials. As these compounds are food additives generally recognized as safe, their anti-biofilm properties may lead to important new applications, such as sanitizers, in the food industry or in clinical settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Pharmacokinetic Study of Aprepitant Solid Dispersions with Soluplus^®

by Jinwen Liu, Meijuan Zou, Hongyu Piao, Yi Liu, Bo Tang, Ying Gao, Ning Ma and Gang Cheng

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11345-11356; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611345 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 9391

Abstract

Solid dispersions are a useful approach to improve the dissolution rate and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The aim of this study was to improve the physicochemical properties and bioavailability of a poorly water-soluble aprepitant by preparation of solid dispersions. [...] Read more.

Solid dispersions are a useful approach to improve the dissolution rate and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The aim of this study was to improve the physicochemical properties and bioavailability of a poorly water-soluble aprepitant by preparation of solid dispersions. The solid dispersions were characterized by dissolution, FTIR, XRPD, DSC, SEM and pharmacokinetic studies in rats. The dissolution rate of the aprepitant was significantly increased by solid dispersions, and XRD, DSC, and SEM analysis indicated that the aprepitant existed in an amorphous form within the solid dispersions. The result of dissolution study showed that the dissolution rate of SDs was nearly five-fold faster than aprepitant. FTIR spectrometry suggested the presence of intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the aprepitant and polymer. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats indicated that the degree drug absorption was comparable with that of Emend^®. Aprepitant exists in an amorphous state in solid dispersions and the solid dispersions can markedly improve the dissolution and oral bioavailability of the aprepitant. The AUC_0–t of the SDs was 2.4-fold that of the aprepitant. In addition, the method and its associated techniques are very easy to carry out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Poorly Soluble Drugs)

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Open AccessArticle

Comparative Label-Free Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Mildly versus Severely Affected mdx Mouse Skeletal Muscles Identifies Annexin, Lamin, and Vimentin as Universal Dystrophic Markers

by Ashling Holland, Michael Henry, Paula Meleady, Claudia K. Winkler, Mirjam Krautwald, Heinrich Brinkmeier and Kay Ohlendieck

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11317-11344; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611317 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 7524

Abstract

The primary deficiency in the membrane cytoskeletal protein dystrophin results in complex changes in dystrophic muscles. In order to compare the degree of secondary alterations in differently affected subtypes of skeletal muscles, we have conducted a global analysis of proteome-wide changes in various [...] Read more.

The primary deficiency in the membrane cytoskeletal protein dystrophin results in complex changes in dystrophic muscles. In order to compare the degree of secondary alterations in differently affected subtypes of skeletal muscles, we have conducted a global analysis of proteome-wide changes in various dystrophin-deficient muscles. In contrast to the highly degenerative mdx diaphragm muscle, which showed considerable alterations in 35 distinct proteins, the spectrum of mildly to moderately dystrophic skeletal muscles, including interosseus, flexor digitorum brevis, soleus, and extensor digitorum longus muscle, exhibited a smaller number of changed proteins. Compensatory mechanisms and/or cellular variances may be responsible for differing secondary changes in individual mdx muscles. Label-free mass spectrometry established altered expression levels for diaphragm proteins associated with contraction, energy metabolism, the cytoskeleton, the extracellular matrix and the cellular stress response. Comparative immunoblotting verified the differences in the degree of secondary changes in dystrophin-deficient muscles and showed that the up-regulation of molecular chaperones, the compensatory increase in proteins of the intermediate filaments, the fibrosis-related increase in collagen levels and the pathophysiological decrease in calcium binding proteins is more pronounced in mdx diaphragm as compared to the less severely affected mdx leg muscles. Annexin, lamin, and vimentin were identified as universal dystrophic markers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Understanding the Mechanisms and Curing Of Muscular Dystrophy Diseases)

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Open AccessArticle

Triel Bonds, π-Hole-π-Electrons Interactions in Complexes of Boron and Aluminium Trihalides and Trihydrides with Acetylene and Ethylene

by Sławomir J. Grabowski

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11297-11316; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611297 - 19 Jun 2015

Cited by 105 | Viewed by 7061

Abstract

MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ calculations were performed on complexes of aluminium and boron trihydrides and trihalides with acetylene and ethylene. These complexes are linked through triel bonds where the triel center (B or Al) is characterized by the Lewis acid properties through its π-hole region while [...] Read more.

MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ calculations were performed on complexes of aluminium and boron trihydrides and trihalides with acetylene and ethylene. These complexes are linked through triel bonds where the triel center (B or Al) is characterized by the Lewis acid properties through its π-hole region while π-electrons of C₂H₂ or C₂H₄ molecule play the role of the Lewis base. Some of these interactions possess characteristics of covalent bonds, i.e., the Al-π-electrons links as well as the interaction in the BH₃-C₂H₂ complex. The triel-π-electrons interactions are classified sometimes as the 3c-2e bonds. In the case of boron trihydrides, these interactions are often the preliminary stages of the hydroboration reaction. The Quantum Theory of “Atoms in Molecules” as well as the Natural Bond Orbitals approach are applied here to characterize the π-hole-π-electrons interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Noncovalent pi-Interactions)

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Open AccessArticle

Selected Compounds Structurally Related to Acyclic Sesquiterpenoids and Their Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activity

by Radosław Bonikowski, Paulina Świtakowska, Monika Sienkiewicz and Małgorzata Zakłos-Szyda

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11272-11296; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611272 - 18 Jun 2015

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5701

Abstract

By implementing a common and industrially used method, 30 compounds which are structurally related to geranyl acetone, nerolidol, farnesal, farnesol and farnesyl acetate were obtained. Their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae [...] Read more.

By implementing a common and industrially used method, 30 compounds which are structurally related to geranyl acetone, nerolidol, farnesal, farnesol and farnesyl acetate were obtained. Their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria was investigated. Pharmacophore models were proposed based on the obtained results and 3D QSAR modelling. Cytotoxic effects against mainly human immortalised and normal cell lines of different origin (malignant melanoma MeWo, colorectal adenocarcinoma HT29, promyelocytic leukemia HL60, gingival fibroblasts HFIG, skin keratinocytes HaCaT and rat small intestine epithelium IEC6) were examined. The odour descriptions of newly synthesised compounds are given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organic Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical Profiling and Evaluation of Pharmacological Activities of Hypericum scabrum L.

by Lan Jiang, Sodik Numonov, Khayrulla Bobakulov, Muhammad Nasimullah Qureshi, Haiqing Zhao and Haji Akber Aisa

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11257-11271; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611257 - 18 Jun 2015

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 6912

Abstract

Phytochemical investigations of ethyl acetate-soluble part of the aerial part of Hypericum scabrum L. delivered eight pure phenolic compounds 1–8. The pure compounds were identified through physico-chemical, NMR (1D, 2D) and mass spectrometric studies as: 3-8′′-bisapigenin (1), quercetin [...] Read more.

Phytochemical investigations of ethyl acetate-soluble part of the aerial part of Hypericum scabrum L. delivered eight pure phenolic compounds 1–8. The pure compounds were identified through physico-chemical, NMR (1D, 2D) and mass spectrometric studies as: 3-8′′-bisapigenin (1), quercetin (2), quercetin-3-O-α-l-arabinofuranoside (3), quercetin-3-O-α-l-rhamnoside (4), quercetin-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (5), quercetin-3-O-β-d-galactopyranoside (6), (−)-epicatechin (7), (+)-catechin (8). Total polyphenolic compounds and total flavonoids contents were determined in the extract as 0.107 mg∙mg⁻¹ and 0.023 mg∙mg⁻¹ of the dried extract, respectively. Antioxidant activity using DPPH free radical scavenging assay delivered very strong activity for compounds 2 and 5, 6 and crude extract 10. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP-1B) inhibition experiment of isolated compounds and crude extracts resulted in significant inhibition activity for samples 2, 7a, 8a, 11 and 12 with IC₅₀values ranging from 1.57 to 2.91 µM. Antimicrobial activity of the pure compounds and extracts produced average results against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans strains. From our literature survey, it appears that all pure compounds except 2 were isolated and reported for the first time in H. scabrum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Phytochemicals: Biosynthesis, Metabolism and Biological Activities)

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Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Mechanism of Action of Triazine-Phosphonate Derivatives as Flame Retardants for Cotton Fabric

by Monique M. Nguyen, M. Sameer Al-Abdul-Wahid, Krystal R. Fontenot, Elena E. Graves, SeChin Chang, Brian D. Condon, Casey C. Grimm and Gary A. Lorigan

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11236-11256; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611236 - 18 Jun 2015

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8603

Abstract

Countless hours of research and studies on triazine, phosphonate, and their combination have provided insightful information into their flame retardant properties on polymeric systems. However, a limited number of studies shed light on the mechanism of flame retardancy of their combination on cotton [...] Read more.

Countless hours of research and studies on triazine, phosphonate, and their combination have provided insightful information into their flame retardant properties on polymeric systems. However, a limited number of studies shed light on the mechanism of flame retardancy of their combination on cotton fabrics. The purpose of this research is to gain an understanding of the thermal degradation process of two triazine-phosphonate derivatives on cotton fabric. The investigation included the preparation of diethyl 4,6-dichloro-1,3,5-triazin-2-ylphosphonate (TPN1) and dimethyl (4,6-dichloro-1,3,5-triazin-2-yloxy) methyl phosphonate (TPN3), their application on fabric materials, and the studies of their thermal degradation mechanism. The studies examined chemical components in both solid and gas phases by using attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared (TGA-FTIR) spectroscopy, and ³¹P solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (³¹P solid state NMR), in addition to the computational studies of bond dissociation energy (BDE). Despite a few differences in their decomposition, TPN1 and TPN3 produce one common major product that is believed to help reduce the flammability of the fabric. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Cellulose and Chitin Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle

Topical Anti-inflammatory Activity of New Hybrid Molecules of Terpenes and Synthetic Drugs

by Cristina Theoduloz, Carla Delporte, Gabriela Valenzuela-Barra, Ximena Silva, Solange Cádiz, Fernanda Bustamante, Mariano Walter Pertino and Guillermo Schmeda-Hirschmann

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11219-11235; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611219 - 18 Jun 2015

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6446

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess changes in the activity of anti-inflammatory terpenes from Chilean medicinal plants after the formation of derivatives incorporating synthetic anti-inflammatory agents. Ten new hybrid molecules were synthesized combining terpenes (ferruginol (1), imbricatolic acid ( [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to assess changes in the activity of anti-inflammatory terpenes from Chilean medicinal plants after the formation of derivatives incorporating synthetic anti-inflammatory agents. Ten new hybrid molecules were synthesized combining terpenes (ferruginol (1), imbricatolic acid (2) and oleanolic acid (3)) with ibuprofen (4) or naproxen (5). The topical anti-inflammatory activity of the compounds was assessed in mice by the arachidonic acid (AA) and 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol 13-acetate (TPA) induced ear edema assays. Basal cytotoxicity was determined towards human lung fibroblasts, gastric epithelial cells and hepatocytes. At 1.4 µmol/mouse, a strong anti-inflammatory effect in the TPA assay was observed for oleanoyl ibuprofenate 12 (79.9%) and oleanoyl ibuprofenate methyl ester 15 (80.0%). In the AA assay, the best activity was observed for 12 at 3.2 µmol/mouse, with 56.8% reduction of inflammation, in the same range as nimesulide (48.9%). All the terpenyl-synthetic anti-inflammatory hybrids showed better effects in the TPA assay, with best activity for 6, 12 and 15. The cytotoxicity of the compounds 8 and 10 with a free COOH, was higher than that of 2. The derivatives from 3 were less toxic than the triterpene. Several of the new compounds presented better anti-inflammatory effect and lower cytotoxicity than the parent terpenes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Diversity)

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Open AccessArticle

Cornus mas (Linnaeus) Novel Devised Medicinal Preparations: Bactericidal Effect against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

by Anthony M. Kyriakopoulos and Biswanath Dinda

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11202-11218; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611202 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6581

Abstract

The medicinal properties of Cornus mas L. (=Cornus mascula L.), Cornaceae, are well described in Hippocratian documents, and recent research provides experimental evidence for some of these properties. However, the chemical components of Cornus mas L. that may be of pharmaceutical importance [...] Read more.

The medicinal properties of Cornus mas L. (=Cornus mascula L.), Cornaceae, are well described in Hippocratian documents, and recent research provides experimental evidence for some of these properties. However, the chemical components of Cornus mas L. that may be of pharmaceutical importance are relatively unstable. In this respect a novel methodology for plant nutrient element extraction that provides favorable conditions for simultaneous stabilization of such fragile and unstable structures has been devised. Using this methodology, medicinal preparations derived from Cornus mas L. fresh fruits, proved to possess significant antimicrobial activity selective against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. This effect became apparent with the addition of sodium bromide in the extraction procedure and varied with the ion availability during extraction. The identification of novel agents with potent antimicrobial activity against these species is of medical importance to overcome the problem of universal antibiotic resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle

A Novel Aqueous Two Phase System Composed of Surfactant and Xylitol for the Purification of Lipase from Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) Seeds and Recycling of Phase Components

by Mehrnoush Amid, Mohd Yazid Manap, Muhaini Hussin and Shuhaimi Mustafa

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11184-11201; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611184 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5838

Abstract

Lipase is one of the more important enzymes used in various industries such as the food, detergent, pharmaceutical, textile, and pulp and paper sectors. A novel aqueous two-phase system composed of surfactant and xylitol was employed for the first time to purify lipase [...] Read more.

Lipase is one of the more important enzymes used in various industries such as the food, detergent, pharmaceutical, textile, and pulp and paper sectors. A novel aqueous two-phase system composed of surfactant and xylitol was employed for the first time to purify lipase from Cucurbita moschata. The influence of different parameters such as type and concentration of surfactants, and the composition of the surfactant/xylitol mixtures on the partitioning behavior and recovery of lipase was investigated. Moreover, the effect of system pH and crude load on the degree of purification and yield of the purified lipase were studied. The results indicated that the lipase was partitioned into the top surfactant rich phase while the impurities partitioned into the bottom xylitol-rich phase using an aqueous two phase system composed of 24% (w/w) Triton X-100 and 20% (w/w) xylitol, at 56.2% of tie line length (TLL), (TTL is one of the important parameters in this study and it is determined from a bimodal curve in which the tie-line connects two nodes on the bimodal, that represent concentration of phase components in the top and bottom phases) and a crude load of 25% (w/w) at pH 8.0. Recovery and recycling of components was also measured in each successive step process. The enzyme was successfully recovered by the proposed method with a high purification factor of 16.4 and yield of 97.4% while over 97% of the phase components were also recovered and recycled. This study demonstrated that the proposed novel aqueous two phase system method is more efficient and economical than the traditional aqueous two phase system method for the purification and recovery of the valuable enzyme lipase. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Inhibitors from the Roots of Cudrania tricuspidata

by Tran Hong Quang, Nguyen Thi Thanh Ngan, Chi-Su Yoon, Kwang-Ho Cho, Dae Gill Kang, Ho Sub Lee, Youn-Chul Kim and Hyuncheol Oh

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11173-11183; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611173 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 7059

Abstract

A chemical investigation of the methanol extract from the roots of Cudrania tricuspidata resulted in the isolation of 16 compounds, including prenylated xanthones 1–9 and flavonoids 10–16. Their structures were identified by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and [...] Read more.

A chemical investigation of the methanol extract from the roots of Cudrania tricuspidata resulted in the isolation of 16 compounds, including prenylated xanthones 1–9 and flavonoids 10–16. Their structures were identified by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and comparisons with published data. Compounds 1–9 and 13–16 significantly inhibited PTP1B activity in a dose dependent manner, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 1.9–13.6 μM. Prenylated xanthones showed stronger PTP1B inhibitory effects than the flavonoids, suggesting that they may be promising targets for the future discovery of novel PTP1B inhibitors. Furthermore, kinetic analyses indicated that compounds 1 and 13 inhibited PTP1B in a noncompetitive manner; therefore, they may be potential lead compounds in the development of anti-obesity and -diabetic agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coumarins, Xanthones and Related Compounds)

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Non-Invasive Biomarkers for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Carrier Detection

by Mónica Alejandra Anaya-Segura, Froylan Arturo García-Martínez, Luis Ángel Montes-Almanza, Benjamín-Gómez Díaz, Guillermina Ávila-Ramírez, Ikuri Alvarez-Maya, Ramón Mauricio Coral-Vázquez, Paul Mondragón-Terán, Rosa Elena Escobar-Cedillo, Noemí García-Calderón, Norma Alejandra Vázquez-Cardenas, Silvia García and Luz Berenice López-Hernández

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11154-11172; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611154 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 11642

Abstract

Non-invasive biological indicators of the absence/presence or progress of the disease that could be used to support diagnosis and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment are of utmost importance in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). This neuromuscular disorder affects male children, causing weakness and [...] Read more.

Non-invasive biological indicators of the absence/presence or progress of the disease that could be used to support diagnosis and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment are of utmost importance in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). This neuromuscular disorder affects male children, causing weakness and disability, whereas female relatives are at risk of being carriers of the disease. A biomarker with both high sensitivity and specificity for accurate prediction is preferred. Until now creatine kinase (CK) levels have been used for DMD diagnosis but these fail to assess disease progression. Herein we examined the potential applicability of serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), myostatin (GDF-8) and follistatin (FSTN) as non-invasive biomarkers to distinguish between DMD steroid naïve patients and healthy controls of similar age and also for carrier detection. Our data suggest that serum levels of MMP-9, GDF-8 and FSTN are useful to discriminate DMD from controls (p < 0.05), to correlate with some neuromuscular assessments for DMD, and also to differentiate between Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) and Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) patients. In DMD individuals under steroid treatment, GDF-8 levels increased as FSTN levels decreased, resembling the proportions of these proteins in healthy controls and also the baseline ratio of patients without steroids. GDF-8 and FSTN serum levels were also useful for carrier detection (p < 0.05). Longitudinal studies with larger cohorts are necessary to confirm that these molecules correlate with disease progression. The biomarkers presented herein could potentially outperform CK levels for carrier detection and also harbor potential for monitoring disease progression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Understanding the Mechanisms and Curing Of Muscular Dystrophy Diseases)

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A New Green Ionic Liquid-Based Corrosion Inhibitor for Steel in Acidic Environments

by Ayman M. Atta, Gamal A. El-Mahdy, Hamad A. Al-Lohedan and Abdel Rahman O. Ezzat

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11131-11153; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611131 - 17 Jun 2015

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6417

Abstract

This work examines the use of new hydrophobic ionic liquid derivatives, namely octadecylammonium tosylate (ODA-TS) and oleylammonium tosylate (OA-TS) for corrosion protection of steel in 1 M hydrochloric acid solution. Their chemical structures were determined from NMR analyses. The surface activity characteristics of [...] Read more.

This work examines the use of new hydrophobic ionic liquid derivatives, namely octadecylammonium tosylate (ODA-TS) and oleylammonium tosylate (OA-TS) for corrosion protection of steel in 1 M hydrochloric acid solution. Their chemical structures were determined from NMR analyses. The surface activity characteristics of the prepared ODA-TS and OA-TS were evaluated from conductance, surface tension and contact angle measurements. The data indicate the presence of a double bond in the chemical structure of OA-TS modified its surface activity parameters. Potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements, scanning electron microscope (SEM), Energy dispersive X-rays (EDX) analysis and contact angle measurements were utilized to investigate the corrosion protection performance of ODA-TS and OA-TS on steel in acidic solution. The OA-TS and ODA-TS compounds showed good protection performance in acidic chloride solution due to formation of an inhibitive film on the steel surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Diversity)

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Open AccessArticle

Antibacterial Activities and Antibacterial Mechanism of Polygonum cuspidatum Extracts against Nosocomial Drug-Resistant Pathogens

by Pai-Wei Su, Cheng-Hong Yang, Jyh-Ferng Yang, Pei-Yu Su and Li-Yeh Chuang

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11119-11130; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611119 - 16 Jun 2015

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 8790

Abstract

Recently, drug resistance due to the extensive abuse and over-use of antibiotics has become an increasingly serious problem, making the development of alternative antibiotics a very urgent issue. In this study, the Chinese herbal medicine, Polygonum cuspidatum, was extracted with 95% ethanol [...] Read more.

Recently, drug resistance due to the extensive abuse and over-use of antibiotics has become an increasingly serious problem, making the development of alternative antibiotics a very urgent issue. In this study, the Chinese herbal medicine, Polygonum cuspidatum, was extracted with 95% ethanol and the crude extracts were further purified by partition based on solvent polarity. The antimicrobial activities of the extracts and fractions were determined by the disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) methods. The results showed that the ethyl ether fraction (EE) of the ethanol extracts possesses a broader antimicrobial spectrum and greater antimicrobial activity against all of the tested clinical drug-resistant isolates, with a range of MIC values between 0.1–3.5 mg/mL. The active extract showed complete inhibition of pathogen growth and did not induce resistance to the active components. In addition, according to scanning electron microscope observations, EE resulted in greater cell morphological changes by degrading and disrupting the cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane, whereby ultimately this cell membrane integrity damage led to cell death. In conclusion, the EE extracts from Polygonum cuspidatum may provide a promising antimicrobial agent for therapeutic applications against nosocomial drug-resistant bacteria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Antibiotics & Superbugs: New Strategies to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance)

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Open AccessArticle

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: A Potential Multifunctional Approach towards Rheumatoid Arthritis Theranostics

by João Albuquerque, Catarina Costa Moura, Bruno Sarmento and Salette Reis

Molecules 2015, 20(6), 11103-11118; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200611103 - 16 Jun 2015

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 8140

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common joint-related autoimmune disease and one of the most severe. Despite intensive investigation, the RA inflammatory process remains largely unknown and finding effective and long lasting therapies that specifically target RA is a challenging task. This study [...] Read more.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common joint-related autoimmune disease and one of the most severe. Despite intensive investigation, the RA inflammatory process remains largely unknown and finding effective and long lasting therapies that specifically target RA is a challenging task. This study proposes a different approach for RA therapy, taking advantage of the new emerging field of nanomedicine to develop a targeted theranostic system for intravenous administration, using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), a biocompatible and biodegradable colloidal delivery system, surface-functionalized with an anti-CD64 antibody that specifically targets macrophages in RA. Methotrexate (MTX) and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) were co-encapsulated inside the SLNs to be used as therapeutic and imaging agents, respectively. All the formulations presented sizes under 250 nm and zeta potential values lower than −16 mV, suitable characteristics for intravenous administration. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) photographs indicated that the SPIONs were encapsulated inside the SLN matrix and MTX association efficiency values were higher than 98%. In vitro studies, using THP-1 cells, demonstrated that all formulations presented low cytotoxicity at concentrations lower than 500 μg/mL. It was proven that the proposed NPs were not cytotoxic, that both a therapeutic and imaging agent could be co-encapsulated and that the SLN could be functionalized for a potential future application such as anti-body specific targeting. The proposed formulations are, therefore, promising candidates for future theranostic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Nanomedicine)

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Molecules, Volume 20, Issue 6 (June 2015) – 128 articles , Pages 9487-11631

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