Molecules

49 pages, 13389 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hormesis and Ginseng: Ginseng Mixtures and Individual Constituents Commonly Display Hormesis Dose Responses, Especially for Neuroprotective Effects

by Edward J. Calabrese

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2719; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112719 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4501

Abstract

This paper demonstrates that ginseng mixtures and individual ginseng chemical constituents commonly induce hormetic dose responses in numerous biological models for endpoints of biomedical and clinical relevance, typically providing a mechanistic framework. The principal focus of ginseng hormesis-related research has been directed toward [...] Read more.

This paper demonstrates that ginseng mixtures and individual ginseng chemical constituents commonly induce hormetic dose responses in numerous biological models for endpoints of biomedical and clinical relevance, typically providing a mechanistic framework. The principal focus of ginseng hormesis-related research has been directed toward enhancing neuroprotection against conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases, stroke damage, as well as enhancing spinal cord and peripheral neuronal damage repair and reducing pain. Ginseng was also shown to reduce symptoms of diabetes, prevent cardiovascular system damage, protect the kidney from toxicities due to immune suppressant drugs, and prevent corneal damage, amongst other examples. These findings complement similar hormetic-based chemoprotective reports for other widely used dietary-type supplements such as curcumin, ginkgo biloba, and green tea. These findings, which provide further support for the generality of the hormetic dose response in the biomedical literature, have potentially important public health and clinical implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutraceuticals in Immune Function)

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19 pages, 1395 KiB

Open AccessReview

Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-Based Proteomics of Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes and Transporters

by Jiapeng Li and Hao-Jie Zhu

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112718 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6025

Abstract

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based proteomics is a powerful tool for identifying and quantifying proteins in biological samples, outperforming conventional antibody-based methods in many aspects. LC-MS/MS-based proteomics studies have revealed the protein abundances of many drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters (DMETs) in tissues relevant [...] Read more.

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based proteomics is a powerful tool for identifying and quantifying proteins in biological samples, outperforming conventional antibody-based methods in many aspects. LC-MS/MS-based proteomics studies have revealed the protein abundances of many drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters (DMETs) in tissues relevant to drug metabolism and disposition. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated marked interindividual variability in DMET protein expression, suggesting that varied DMET function is an important contributing factor for interindividual variability in pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of medications. Moreover, differential DMET expression profiles were observed across different species and in vitro models. Therefore, caution must be exercised when extrapolating animal and in vitro DMET proteomics findings to humans. In recent years, DMET proteomics has been increasingly utilized for the development of physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, and DMET proteins have also been proposed as biomarkers for prediction of the PK and PD of the corresponding substrate drugs. In sum, despite the existence of many challenges in the analytical technology and data analysis methods of LC-MS/MS-based proteomics, DMET proteomics holds great potential to advance our understanding of PK behavior at the individual level and to optimize treatment regimens via the DMET protein biomarker-guided precision pharmacotherapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue CZE/LC-MS-based Proteomics)

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16 pages, 3284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Valorization of Lignin via Oxidative Depolymerization with Hydrogen Peroxide: Towards Carboxyl-Rich Oligomeric Lignin Fragments

by Ulrike Junghans, Justin J. Bernhardt, Ronja Wollnik, Dominik Triebert, Gerd Unkelbach and Daniela Pufky-Heinrich

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2717; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112717 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6525

Abstract

The extraction and characterization of defined and carboxyl-rich oligomeric lignin fragments with narrow molecular weight distribution is presented herein. With regard to the well-known pulp bleaching process, oxidative lignin depolymerization was investigated using hydrogen peroxide in an aqueous alkaline solution (i.e., at T [...] Read more.

The extraction and characterization of defined and carboxyl-rich oligomeric lignin fragments with narrow molecular weight distribution is presented herein. With regard to the well-known pulp bleaching process, oxidative lignin depolymerization was investigated using hydrogen peroxide in an aqueous alkaline solution (i.e., at T = 318 K, t = 1 h) and subsequent selective fractionation with a 10/90 (v/v) acetone/water mixture. While the weight average molecular weight (M_W) of lignin in comparison to the starting material was reduced by 82% after oxidation (T = 318 K, t = 1 h, c_lignin = 40 g L⁻¹, c_H2O2 = 80 g L⁻¹, c_NaOH = 2 mol L⁻¹) and subsequent solvent fractionation (T = 298 K, t = 18 h, c_{cleavage product} = 20 g L⁻¹), the carboxyl group (–COOH) content increased from 1.29 mmol g⁻¹ up to 2.66 mmol g⁻¹. Finally, the successful scale-up of this whole process to 3 L scale led to gram amounts (14% yield) of oligomeric lignin fragments with a M_W of 1607 g mol⁻¹, a number average molecular weight (M_N) of 646 g mol⁻¹, a narrow polydispersity index of 3.0, and a high –COOH content of 2.96 mmol g⁻¹. Application of these oligomeric lignin fragments in epoxy resins or as adsorbents is conceivable without further functionalization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lignin – A Natural Resource with Huge Potential)

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21 pages, 4547 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unsaturated Fatty Acid-Induced Conformational Transitions and Aggregation of the Repeat Domain of Tau

by Carlo Giorgio Barracchia, Roberto Tira, Francesca Parolini, Francesca Munari, Luigi Bubacco, Georgios A. Spyroulias, Mariapina D’Onofrio and Michael Assfalg

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2716; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112716 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3201

Abstract

Background: The intrinsically disordered, amyloidogenic protein Tau associates with diverse classes of molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. Mounting evidence suggests that fatty acid molecules could play a role in the dysfunction of this protein, however, their interaction with Tau remains poorly [...] Read more.

Background: The intrinsically disordered, amyloidogenic protein Tau associates with diverse classes of molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. Mounting evidence suggests that fatty acid molecules could play a role in the dysfunction of this protein, however, their interaction with Tau remains poorly characterized. Methods: In a bid to elucidate the association of Tau with unsaturated fatty acids at the sub-molecular level, we carried out a variety of solution NMR experiments in combination with circular dichroism and fluorescence measurements. Our study shows that Tau^4RD, the highly basic four-repeat domain of Tau, associates strongly with arachidonic and oleic acid assemblies in a high lipid/protein ratio, perturbing their supramolecular states and itself undergoing time-dependent structural adaptation. The structural signatures of Tau^4RD/fatty acid aggregates appear similar for arachidonic acid and oleic acid, however, they are distinct from those of another prototypical intrinsically disordered protein, α-synuclein, when bound to these lipids, revealing protein-specific conformational adaptations. Both fatty acid molecules are found to invariably promote the self-aggregation of Tau^4RD and of α-synuclein. Conclusions: This study describes the reciprocal influence that Tau^4RD and fatty acids exert on their conformational states, contributing to our understanding of fundamental aspects of Tau/lipid co-assembly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers of the Editorial Board Members (EBMs) of the Bioorganic Chemistry Section of Molecules)

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13 pages, 3940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Structural Representation in the Performance of a Deep Neural Network for X-ray Spectroscopy

by Marwah M.M. Madkhali, Conor D. Rankine and Thomas J. Penfold

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2715; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112715 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3818

Abstract

An important consideration when developing a deep neural network (DNN) for the prediction of molecular properties is the representation of the chemical space. Herein we explore the effect of the representation on the performance of our DNN engineered to predict Fe K-edge X-ray [...] Read more.

An important consideration when developing a deep neural network (DNN) for the prediction of molecular properties is the representation of the chemical space. Herein we explore the effect of the representation on the performance of our DNN engineered to predict Fe K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectra, and address the question: How important is the choice of representation for the local environment around an arbitrary Fe absorption site? Using two popular representations of chemical space—the Coulomb matrix (CM) and pair-distribution/radial distribution curve (RDC)—we investigate the effect that the choice of representation has on the performance of our DNN. While CM and RDC featurisation are demonstrably robust descriptors, it is possible to obtain a smaller mean squared error (MSE) between the target and estimated XANES spectra when using RDC featurisation, and converge to this state a) faster and b) using fewer data samples. This is advantageous for future extension of our DNN to other X-ray absorption edges, and for reoptimisation of our DNN to reproduce results from higher levels of theory. In the latter case, dataset sizes will be limited more strongly by the resource-intensive nature of the underlying theoretical calculations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers of the Editorial Board Members (EBMs) of the Physical Chemistry Section of Molecules)

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15 pages, 2599 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conjugation of Doxorubicin to siRNA Through Disulfide-based Self-immolative Linkers

by Florian Gauthier, Jean-Rémi Bertrand, Jean-Jacques Vasseur, Christelle Dupouy and Françoise Debart

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2714; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112714 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4648

Abstract

Co-delivery systems of siRNA and chemotherapeutic drugs have been developed as an attractive strategy to optimize the efficacy of chemotherapy towards cancer cells with multidrug resistance. In these typical systems, siRNAs are usually associated to drugs within a carrier but without covalent interactions [...] Read more.

Co-delivery systems of siRNA and chemotherapeutic drugs have been developed as an attractive strategy to optimize the efficacy of chemotherapy towards cancer cells with multidrug resistance. In these typical systems, siRNAs are usually associated to drugs within a carrier but without covalent interactions with the risk of a premature release and degradation of the drugs inside the cells. To address this issue, we propose a covalent approach to co-deliver a siRNA-drug conjugate with a redox-responsive self-immolative linker prone to intracellular glutathione-mediated disulfide cleavage. Herein, we report the use of two disulfide bonds connected by a pentane spacer or a p-xylene spacer as self-immolative linker between the primary amine of the anticancer drug doxorubicin (Dox) and the 2′-position of one or two ribonucleotides in RNA. Five Dox-RNA conjugates were successfully synthesized using two successive thiol-disulfide exchange reactions. The Dox-RNA conjugates were annealed with their complementary strands and the duplexes were shown to form an A-helix sufficiently stable under physiological conditions. The enzymatic stability of Dox-siRNAs in human serum was enhanced compared to the unmodified siRNA, especially when two Dox are attached to siRNA. The release of native Dox and RNA from the bioconjugate was demonstrated under reducing conditions suggesting efficient linker disintegration. These results demonstrate the feasibility of making siRNA-drug conjugates via disulfide-based self-immolative linkers for potential therapeutic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nucleoside/Nucleotides and Nucleic Acid Chemistry: A Theme Issue in Honor of Prof. Dr. Piet Herdewijn)

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13 pages, 1294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Antibacterial Analysis of Analogues of the Marine Alkaloid Pseudoceratidine

by David Barker, Stephanie Lee, Kyriakos G. Varnava, Kevin Sparrow, Michelle van Rensburg, Rebecca C. Deed, Melissa M. Cadelis, Steven A. Li, Brent R. Copp, Vijayalekshmi Sarojini and Lisa I. Pilkington

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2713; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112713 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3178

Abstract

In an effort to gain more understanding on the structure activity relationship of pseudoceratidine 1, a di-bromo pyrrole spermidine alkaloid derived from the marine sponge Pseudoceratina purpurea that has been shown to exhibit potent biofouling, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and anti-malarial activities, a large [...] Read more.

In an effort to gain more understanding on the structure activity relationship of pseudoceratidine 1, a di-bromo pyrrole spermidine alkaloid derived from the marine sponge Pseudoceratina purpurea that has been shown to exhibit potent biofouling, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and anti-malarial activities, a large series of 65 compounds that incorporated several aspects of structural variation has been synthesised through an efficient, divergent method that allowed for a number of analogues to be generated from common precursors. Subsequently, all analogues were assessed for their antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Overall, several compounds exhibited comparable or better activity than that of pseudoceratidine 1, and it was found that this class of compounds is generally more effective against Gram-positive than Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, altering several structural features allowed for the establishment of a comprehensive structure activity relationship (SAR), where it was concluded that several structural features are critical for potent anti-bacterial activity, including di-halogenation (preferable bromine, but chlorine is also effective) on the pyrrole ring, two pyrrolic units in the structure and with one or more secondary amines in the chain adjoining these units, with longer chains giving rise to better activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exclusive Papers of the Editorial Board Members of the Natural Products Chemistry Section of Molecules)

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20 pages, 1726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacokinetic Properties of ⁶⁸Ga-labelled Folic Acid Conjugates: Improvement Using HEHE Tag

by Anton Larenkov, Marat Rakhimov, Kristina Lunyova, Olga Klementyeva, Alesya Maruk and Aleksei Machulkin

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2712; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112712 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3599

Abstract

The folate receptor (FR) is a promising cell membrane-associated target for molecular imaging and radionuclide therapy of cancer (FR-α) and potentially also inflammatory diseases (FR-β) through use of folic acid-based radioconjugate. FR is often overexpressed by cells of epithelial tumors, including tumors of [...] Read more.

The folate receptor (FR) is a promising cell membrane-associated target for molecular imaging and radionuclide therapy of cancer (FR-α) and potentially also inflammatory diseases (FR-β) through use of folic acid-based radioconjugate. FR is often overexpressed by cells of epithelial tumors, including tumors of ovary, cervix, endometrium, lungs, kidneys, etc. In healthy tissues, FR can be found in small numbers by the epithelial cells, mainly in the kidneys. Extremely high undesired accumulation of the folate radioconjugates in the renal tissue is a main drawback of FR-targeting concept. In the course of this work, we aimed to reduce the undesirable accumulation of folate radioconjugates in the kidneys by introducing a histidine/glutamic acid tag into their structure. Two folic acid based compounds were synthesized: NODAGA-1,4-butanediamine-folic acid (FA-I, as control) and NODAGA-[Lys-(HE)₂]-folic acid (FA-II) which contains a (His-Glu)₂ fragment. In vitro studies with FR (+) cells (KB and others) showed that both compounds have specificity for FR. Introduction of (HE)₂-tag does not affect FR binding ability of the conjugates. In vivo biodistribution studies with normal laboratory animals, as well as with KB tumor bearing animals, were carried out. The results showed that introduction of the (HE)₂ tag into the structure of folate radioconjugates can significantly reduce the accumulation of these compounds in non-target tissues and important organs (the accumulation in the kidneys is reduced 2–4 times), leaving the accumulation in tumor at least at the same level, and even increasing it. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of Molecules—Recent Advances in Medicinal Chemistry)

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11 pages, 6391 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Continuous Bioinspired Oxidation of Sulfides

by Francesca Mangiavacchi, Letizia Crociani, Luca Sancineto, Francesca Marini and Claudio Santi

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2711; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112711 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3571

Abstract

A simple, efficient, and selective oxidation under flow conditions of sulfides into their corresponding sulfoxides and sulfones is reported herein, using as a catalyst perselenic acid generated in situ by the oxidation of selenium (IV) oxide in a diluted aqueous solution of hydrogen [...] Read more.

A simple, efficient, and selective oxidation under flow conditions of sulfides into their corresponding sulfoxides and sulfones is reported herein, using as a catalyst perselenic acid generated in situ by the oxidation of selenium (IV) oxide in a diluted aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide as the final oxidant. The scope of the proposed methodology was investigated using aryl alkyl sulfides, aryl vinyl sulfides, and dialkyl sulfides as substrates, evidencing, in general, a good applicability. The scaled-up synthesis of (methylsulfonyl)benzene was also demonstrated, leading to its gram-scale preparation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chalcogenides: New Developments and Cutting-Edge Applications)

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28 pages, 7089 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One-Pot Multicomponent Synthesis and Bioevaluation of Tetrahydroquinoline Derivatives as Potential Antioxidants, α-Amylase Enzyme Inhibitors, Anti-Cancerous and Anti-Inflammatory Agents

by Samra Farooq, Aqsa Mazhar, Areej Ghouri, Ihsan-Ul-Haq and Naseem Ullah

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2710; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112710 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4658

Abstract

Mankind has always suffered from multiple diseases. Therefore, there has been a rigorous need in the field of medicinal chemistry for the design and discovery of new and potent molecular entities. In this work, thirteen tetrahydroquinoline derivatives were synthesized and evaluated biologically for [...] Read more.

Mankind has always suffered from multiple diseases. Therefore, there has been a rigorous need in the field of medicinal chemistry for the design and discovery of new and potent molecular entities. In this work, thirteen tetrahydroquinoline derivatives were synthesized and evaluated biologically for their antioxidant, α-amylase enzyme inhibitory, anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory activities. SF8 showed the lowest IC₅₀ of 29.19 ± 0.25 µg/mL by scavenging DPPH free radicals. SF5 showed significant antioxidant activity in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total reducing power (TRP) assays. SF5 and SF9 showed the maximum inhibition of α-amylase enzyme i.e., 97.47% and 89.93%, respectively, at 200 µg/mL concentration. Five compounds were shortlisted to determine their anti-proliferative potential against Hep-2C cells. The study was conducted for 24, 48 and 72 h. SF8 showed significant results, having an IC₅₀ value of 11.9 ± 1.04 µM at 72 h when compared with standard cisplatin (IC₅₀ value of 14.6 ± 1.01 µM). An in vitro nitric oxide (NO) assay was performed to select compounds for in vivo anti-inflammatory activity evaluation. SF13 scavenged the NO level to a maximum of 85% at 50 µM concentration, followed by SF1 and SF2. Based on the NO scavenging assay results, in vivo anti-inflammatory studies were also performed and the results showed significant activity compared to the standard, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Application of Quinolines and Quinoline Derivatives)

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21 pages, 5863 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Studies of the Inhibitory Effect of Hydroxylated Phenylpropanoids and Biphenols Derivatives on Tyrosinase and Laccase Enzymes

by Maria Antonietta Dettori, Davide Fabbri, Alessandro Dessì, Roberto Dallocchio, Paola Carta, Claudia Honisch, Paolo Ruzza, Donatella Farina, Rossana Migheli, Pier Andrea Serra, Roberto A. Pantaleoni, Xenia Fois, Gaia Rocchitta and Giovanna Delogu

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2709; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112709 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3286

Abstract

The impaired activity of tyrosinase and laccase can provoke serious concerns in the life cycles of mammals, insects and microorganisms. Investigation of inhibitors of these two enzymes may lead to the discovery of whitening agents, medicinal products, anti-browning substances and compounds for controlling [...] Read more.

The impaired activity of tyrosinase and laccase can provoke serious concerns in the life cycles of mammals, insects and microorganisms. Investigation of inhibitors of these two enzymes may lead to the discovery of whitening agents, medicinal products, anti-browning substances and compounds for controlling harmful insects and bacteria. A small collection of novel reversible tyrosinase and laccase inhibitors with a phenylpropanoid and hydroxylated biphenyl core was prepared using naturally occurring compounds and their activity was measured by spectrophotometric and electrochemical assays. Biosensors based on tyrosinase and laccase enzymes were constructed and used to detect the type of protein-ligand interaction and half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀). Most of the inhibitors showed an IC₅₀ in a range of 20–423 nM for tyrosinase and 23–2619 nM for laccase. Due to the safety concerns of conventional tyrosinase and laccase inhibitors, the viability of the new compounds was assayed on PC12 cells, four of which showed a viability of roughly 80% at 40 µM. In silico studies on the crystal structure of laccase enzyme identified a hydroxylated biphenyl bearing a prenylated chain as the lead structure, which activated strong and effective interactions at the active site of the enzyme. These data were confirmed by in vivo experiments performed on the insect model Tenebrio molitur. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein-Peptide and Protein-Small Molecule Interactions)

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11 pages, 695 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Characterization of New Series of 1,3-5-Triazine Hydrazone Derivatives with Promising Antiproliferative Activity

by Hessa H. Al H. Al Rasheed, Azizah M. M. Malebari, Kholood A. A. Dahlous and Ayman El-Faham

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2708; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112708 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3072

Abstract

A new series of s-triazine hydrazone derivatives was prepared based on the reaction of 6-hydrazino-2,4-disubstituted-s-triazine with p-substituted benzaldehyde derivatives using a straightforward synthetic pathway. The antiproliferative activity of all synthesized compounds was evaluated against two human cancer cell lines; [...] Read more.

A new series of s-triazine hydrazone derivatives was prepared based on the reaction of 6-hydrazino-2,4-disubstituted-s-triazine with p-substituted benzaldehyde derivatives using a straightforward synthetic pathway. The antiproliferative activity of all synthesized compounds was evaluated against two human cancer cell lines; breast cancer MCF-7 and colon carcinoma HCT-116 using MTT assay. Among all, 11 compounds have shown strong to moderate antiproliferative activity with IC₅₀ values in the range 1.01–18.20 µM in MCF-7 and 0.97–19.51 µM in HCT-116. The best results were obtained with 4,4’-(6-(2-(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)hydrazinyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diyl) dimorpholine 11 (IC₅₀ = 1.0 µM and 0.98 µM in MCF-7 and HCT-116 cell lines, respectively). The substituents on the s-triazine core as well as the substituent at the benzylidene moiety have a great effect on the antiproliferative activity. Whereas compounds containing dimorpholino-s-triazine derivatives 8a–e showed more potent antiproliferative in MCF-7 compared to their analogs 7a–f (compounds containing two-piperidine rings), compounds containing one piperidine and one morpholine ring 9a–f showed better IC₅₀values in the range 10.4–22.2 µM. On the other hand, compounds containing two-piperidine rings 7a–f showed more potent antiproliferative in HCT-116 (IC₅₀ values in the range 8.8–19.5 µM) than their analogs 8a–e and 9a–f. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitrogen-Containing Heterocycles as Significant Molecular Scaffolds for Medicinal and Other Applications)

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10 pages, 1696 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Potential of Flavonoid-Inspired Phytomedicines against COVID-19

by Wilfred Ngwa, Rajiv Kumar, Daryl Thompson, William Lyerly, Roscoe Moore, Terry-Elinor Reid, Henry Lowe and Ngeh Toyang

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2707; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112707 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 112 | Viewed by 11784

Abstract

Flavonoids are widely used as phytomedicines. Here, we report on flavonoid phytomedicines with potential for development into prophylactics or therapeutics against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These flavonoid-based phytomedicines include: caflanone, Equivir, hesperetin, myricetin, and Linebacker. Our in silico studies show that these flavonoid-based [...] Read more.

Flavonoids are widely used as phytomedicines. Here, we report on flavonoid phytomedicines with potential for development into prophylactics or therapeutics against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These flavonoid-based phytomedicines include: caflanone, Equivir, hesperetin, myricetin, and Linebacker. Our in silico studies show that these flavonoid-based molecules can bind with high affinity to the spike protein, helicase, and protease sites on the ACE2 receptor used by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 to infect cells and cause COVID-19. Meanwhile, in vitro studies show potential of caflanone to inhibit virus entry factors including, ABL-2, cathepsin L, cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, Mip-1α, TNF-α), and PI4Kiiiβ as well as AXL-2, which facilitates mother-to-fetus transmission of coronavirus. The potential for the use of smart drug delivery technologies like nanoparticle drones loaded with these phytomedicines to overcome bioavailability limitations and improve therapeutic efficacy are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavonoids and Their Disease Prevention and Treatment Potential)

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15 pages, 1901 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effect of Addition of Pectins from Jujubes (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) on Vitamin C Production during Heterolactic Fermentation

by Alessia Fazio, Chiara La Torre, Maria Cristina Caroleo, Paolino Caputo, Roberto Cannataro, Pierluigi Plastina and Erika Cione

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2706; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112706 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2696

Abstract

Soluble fibers, including pectins from apple and lemon, are commonly used as prebiotic and to prepare functional foods. The present study aimed to investigate the physicochemical and functional properties of pectins extracted from jujubes (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.). Pectins were extracted from jujubes [...] Read more.

Soluble fibers, including pectins from apple and lemon, are commonly used as prebiotic and to prepare functional foods. The present study aimed to investigate the physicochemical and functional properties of pectins extracted from jujubes (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.). Pectins were extracted from jujubes at three stages of harvesting and characterized by FTIR and SEM analyses. Whole milk inoculated with kefir grains was supplemented by 0.25 mg·mL⁻¹ of pectins. The pH value and vitamin C content were evaluated after 24 and 48 h of fermentation. Pectins from jujubes at the first harvesting stage (PJ1K) showed the lowest methoxylation degree. The addition of pectins enhanced the production of vitamin C during heterolactic process. This result was found to depend on jujube harvesting stage as PJ1K stimulated the growth of yeasts in kefir grains yielding to the highest amount of vitamin C (0.83 ± 0.01 µg·mL⁻¹) compared to other samples (0.53–0.60 µg·mL⁻¹) at 24 h. Lactic acid bacteria diminish pH rapidly with respect to control (4.13 ± 0.05), according to the stage of maturation, reducing its initial value by 38.3% in PJ1K. Besides being an excellent prebiotic, pectins from jujubes could be used to enrich kefir with vitamin C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Fermented Products)

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20 pages, 6121 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Lisbon Supramolecular Green Story: Mechanochemistry towards New Forms of Pharmaceuticals

by João Luís Ferreira da Silva, M. Fátima Minas da Piedade, Vânia André, Sofia Domingos, Inês C. B. Martins and M. Teresa Duarte

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2705; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112705 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2654

Abstract

This short review presents and highlights the work performed by the Lisbon Group on the mechanochemical synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) multicomponent compounds. Here, we show some of our most relevant contributions on the synthesis of supramolecular derivatives of well-known commercial used [...] Read more.

This short review presents and highlights the work performed by the Lisbon Group on the mechanochemical synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) multicomponent compounds. Here, we show some of our most relevant contributions on the synthesis of supramolecular derivatives of well-known commercial used drugs and the corresponding improvement on their physicochemical properties. The study reflects, not only our pursuit of using crystal engineering principles for the search of supramolecular entities, but also our aim to correlate them with the desired properties. The work also covers our results on polymorphic screening and describes our proposed alternatives to induce and maintain specific polymorphic forms, and our approach to avoid polymorphism using APIs as ionic liquids. We want to stress that all the work was performed using mechanochemistry, a green advantageous synthetic technique. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 1st CQE Days Meeting: 44 Years Connecting People and Chemistry)

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16 pages, 2263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conversion of the Propane–Butane Fraction into Arenes on MFI Zeolites Modified by Zinc Oxide and Activated by Low-Temperature Plasma

by Vladimir I. Erofeev, Sofiya N. Dzhalilova, Mikhail V. Erofeev, Vasilii S. Ripenko and Vladimir P. Reschetilowski

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2704; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112704 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2345

Abstract

The effect of modification of MFI zeolite 1–5 wt.% ZnO activated by plasma on acid and catalytic properties in the conversion of the propane–butane fraction into arenes was investigated. The high-silica zeolites with silicate module 45 were synthesized from alkaline alumina–silica gels in [...] Read more.

The effect of modification of MFI zeolite 1–5 wt.% ZnO activated by plasma on acid and catalytic properties in the conversion of the propane–butane fraction into arenes was investigated. The high-silica zeolites with silicate module 45 were synthesized from alkaline alumina–silica gels in the presence of an ‘X-oil’ organic structure-forming additive. The modification of the zeolite with zinc was carried out by impregnating the zeolite granules in the H-form with an aqueous solution of Zn(NO₃)₂. The obtained zeolites were characterized by X-ray phase analysis and IR spectroscopy. It is shown that the synthesized zeolites belong to the high-silica MFI zeolites. The study of microporous zeolite-containing catalysts during the conversion of C₃-C₄ alkanes to aromatic hydrocarbons made it possible to establish that the highest yield of aromatic hydrocarbons is observed on zeolite catalysts modified with 1 and 3% ZnO and amount to 63.7 and 64.4% at 600 °C, respectively, which is 7.7–8.4% more than on the original zeolite. The preliminary activation of microporous zeolites modified with 1–5% ZnO and plasma leads to an increase in the yield of aromatic hydrocarbons from the propane–butane fraction; the maximum yield of arenes is observed in zeolite catalysts modified with 1 and 3% ZnO and activated by plasma, amounting to 64.9 and 65.5% at 600 °C, respectively, which is 8.9–9.5% more than on the initial zeolite. The activity of the zeolite catalysts modified by ZnO and activated by plasma show good agreement with their acid properties. Activation of the zeolites modified by 1 and 3% ZnO and plasma leads to an increase in the concentration of the weak acid sites of the catalyst to 707 and 764 mmol/g in comparison with plasma-inactivated 1 and 3% ZnO/ZKE-XM catalysts at 626 and 572 mmol/g, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zeolitic Microporous Materials and Their Applications)

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15 pages, 1886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Nature of Triel Bonds, a Case of B and Al Centres Bonded with Electron Rich Sites

by Sławomir J. Grabowski

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2703; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112703 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 2953

Abstract

The second-order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory calculations with the aug-cc-pVTZ basis set were performed on complexes of triel species: BCl₃, BH₃, AlCl₃, and AlH₃ acting as Lewis acids through the B or Al centre with Lewis base [...] Read more.

The second-order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory calculations with the aug-cc-pVTZ basis set were performed on complexes of triel species: BCl₃, BH₃, AlCl₃, and AlH₃ acting as Lewis acids through the B or Al centre with Lewis base units: NCH, N₂, NH₃, and Cl⁻ anion. These complexes are linked by triel bonds: B/Al⋅⋅⋅N or B/Al⋅⋅⋅Cl. The Quantum Theory of ´Atoms in Molecules´ approach, Natural Bond Orbital method, and the decomposition of energy of interaction were applied to characterise the latter links. The majority of complexes are connected through strong interactions possessing features of covalent bonds and characterised by short intermolecular distances, often below 2 Å. The BCl₃⋅⋅⋅N₂ complex is linked by a weak interaction corresponding to the B⋅⋅⋅N distance of ~3 Å. For the BCl₃⋅⋅⋅NCH complex, two configurations corresponding to local energetic minima are observed, one characterised by a short B⋅⋅⋅N distance and a strong interaction and another one characterised by a longer B⋅⋅⋅N distance and a weak triel bond. The tetrahedral triel structure is observed for complexes linked by strong triel bonds, while, for complexes connected by weak interactions, the structure is close to the trigonal pyramid, particularly observed for the BCl₃⋅⋅⋅N₂ complex. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bonding in Inorganic and Coordination Compounds)

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25 pages, 4072 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expanding the Role of Sub-Exploited DOE-High Energy Extraction and Metabolomic Profiling towards Agro-Byproduct Valorization: The Case of Carotenoid-Rich Apricot Pulp

by Thalia Tsiaka, Charalambos Fotakis, Dimitra Z. Lantzouraki, Konstantinos Tsiantas, Eleni Siapi, Vassilia J. Sinanoglou and Panagiotis Zoumpoulakis

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2702; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112702 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2786

Abstract

Traditional extraction remains the method-of-choice for phytochemical analyses. However, the absence of an integrated analytical platform, focusing on customized, validated extraction steps, generates tendentious and non-reproducible data regarding the phytochemical profile. Such a platform would also support the exploration and exploitation of plant [...] Read more.

Traditional extraction remains the method-of-choice for phytochemical analyses. However, the absence of an integrated analytical platform, focusing on customized, validated extraction steps, generates tendentious and non-reproducible data regarding the phytochemical profile. Such a platform would also support the exploration and exploitation of plant byproducts, which are a valuable source of bioactive metabolites. This study deals with the incorporation of (a) the currently sub-exploited high energy extraction methods (ultrasound (UAE)- and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE)), (b) experimental design (DOE), and (c) metabolomics, in an integrated analytical platform for the extensive study of plant metabolomics and phytochemical profiling. The recovery of carotenoids from apricot by-products (pulp) is examined as a case study. MAE, using ethanol as solvent, achieved higher carotenoid yields compared to UAE, where 1:1 chloroform-methanol was employed, and classic extraction. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomic profiling classified extracts according to the variations in co-extractives in relation to the extraction conditions. Extracts with a lower carotenoid content contained branched-chain amino acids as co-extractives. Medium carotenoid content extracts contained choline, unsaturated fatty acids, and sugar alcohols, while the highest carotenoid extracts were also rich in sugars. Overall, the proposed pipeline can provide different the phytochemical fractions of bioactive compounds according to the needs of different industrial sectors (cosmetics, nutraceuticals, etc.). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds with Applications in Health and Food)

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9 pages, 1357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis of Nitroxide Diradical Using a New Approach

by Pavel Fedyushin, Tatyana Rybalova, Nargiz Asanbaeva, Elena Bagryanskaya, Alexey Dmitriev, Nina Gritsan, Maxim Kazantsev and Evgeny Tretyakov

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2701; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112701 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3078

Abstract

A new synthetic pathway to diradical organic systems is proposed. The effectiveness of this approach was exemplified by the synthesis of a new nitroxide diradical. An interaction of perfluorobiphenyl with lithium tert-butylamide, followed by oxidation of the thusly formed N4,N [...] Read more.

A new synthetic pathway to diradical organic systems is proposed. The effectiveness of this approach was exemplified by the synthesis of a new nitroxide diradical. An interaction of perfluorobiphenyl with lithium tert-butylamide, followed by oxidation of the thusly formed N4,N4′-di-tert-butyl-2,2′,3,3′,5,5′,6,6′-octafluorobiphenyl-4,4′-diamine with meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid, led to the polyfluorinated nitroxide diradical, N,N′-(perfluorobiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(N-tert-butyl(oxyl)amine), with a good total yield. The polyfluorinated diradical is stable and can be isolated in free form and completely characterized. The structure of the nitroxide diradical was proved by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. According to the X-ray diffraction data, the diradical is considerably twisted: dihedral angles between the planes of the nitroxide groups and aromatic cycles are 65.1° and 69.5°, and between aromatic cycles 52.6°. Quantum chemical calculations predict well-balanced size of both intramolecular and intermolecular exchange interactions with J from −2.65 to −1.14 cm⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stable Organic Radicals)

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13 pages, 4430 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modulation of Macrophage Polarization by Phospholipids on the Surface of Titanium

by Hongxuan Quan, Yongjoon Kim, Lele Wu, Hee-Chul Park and Hyeong-Cheol Yang

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2700; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112700 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3281

Abstract

Macrophage polarization has become increasingly important for the improvement of the biocompatibility of biomaterials. In this study, we coated Ti discs with phospholipids (phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine [4:1 mole/mole]) by evaporating the solvent under vacuum, and observed the polarization of RAW 264.7 cells cultured on the [...] Read more.

Macrophage polarization has become increasingly important for the improvement of the biocompatibility of biomaterials. In this study, we coated Ti discs with phospholipids (phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine [4:1 mole/mole]) by evaporating the solvent under vacuum, and observed the polarization of RAW 264.7 cells cultured on the discs. The coated discs were hydrated before cell culture was added. The shape of the hydrated phospholipids varied with the concentration of loaded phospholipids: a perforated layer (0.1 mM), tubules and spheres (1 mM), and spheres (10 mM). RAW 264.7 cells exhibited different morphologies, depending on the concentration of phospholipids. On the coated discs, the gene expression and protein release of TGF-β1, VEGF, Arg-1, and TNF-α were downregulated, especially with 10 mM phospholipids. The stimulation of mRNA expression and the protein release of those genes by IL-4 and LPS were also disturbed on the phospholipid-coated discs. In conclusion, the polarization of RAW 264.7 cells was prevented by hydrated phospholipids on Ti discs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phosphorus-Containing Materials and Polymers: How a Central Element of All Living Matter can be Used in the Synthetic World)

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25 pages, 2481 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nanomaterials for Wound Dressings: An Up-to-Date Overview

by Alexandra Elena Stoica, Cristina Chircov and Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2699; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112699 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 119 | Viewed by 9543

Abstract

As wound healing continues to be a challenge for the medical field, wound management has become an essential factor for healthcare systems. Nanotechnology is a domain that could provide different new approaches concerning regenerative medicine. It is worth mentioning the importance of nanoparticles, [...] Read more.

As wound healing continues to be a challenge for the medical field, wound management has become an essential factor for healthcare systems. Nanotechnology is a domain that could provide different new approaches concerning regenerative medicine. It is worth mentioning the importance of nanoparticles, which, when embedded in biomaterials, can induce specific properties that make them of interest in applications as materials for wound dressings. In the last years, nano research has taken steps to develop molecular engineering strategies for different self-assembling biocompatible nanoparticles. It is well-known that nanomaterials can improve burn treatment and also the delayed wound healing process. In this review, the first-line of bioactive nanomaterials-based dressing categories frequently applied in clinical practice, including semi-permeable films, semipermeable foam dressings, hydrogel dressings, hydrocolloid dressings, alginate dressings, non-adherent contact layer dressings, and multilayer dressings will be discussed. Additionally, this review will highlight the lack of high-quality evidence and the necessity for future advanced trials because current wound healing therapies generally fail to provide an excellent clinical outcome, either structurally or functionally. The use of nanomaterials in wound management represents a unique tool that can be specifically designed to closely reflect the underlying physiological processes in tissue repair. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of Molecules—Recent Advances in Nanochemistry)

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9 pages, 1330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Laser-Inscribed Diamond Waveguide Resonantly Coupled to Diamond Microsphere

by Nurperi Yavuz, Mustafa Mert Bayer, Hüseyin Ozan Ҫirkinoğlu, Ali Serpengüzel, Thien Le Phu, Argyro Giakoumaki, Vibhav Bharadwaj, Roberta Ramponi and Shane M. Eaton

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2698; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112698 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2735

Abstract

An all-diamond photonic circuit was implemented by integrating a diamond microsphere with a femtosecond-laser-written bulk diamond waveguide. The near surface waveguide was fabricated by exploiting the Type II fabrication method to achieve stress-induced waveguiding. Transverse electrically and transverse magnetically polarized light from a [...] Read more.

An all-diamond photonic circuit was implemented by integrating a diamond microsphere with a femtosecond-laser-written bulk diamond waveguide. The near surface waveguide was fabricated by exploiting the Type II fabrication method to achieve stress-induced waveguiding. Transverse electrically and transverse magnetically polarized light from a tunable laser operating in the near-infrared region was injected into the diamond waveguide, which when coupled to the diamond microsphere showed whispering-gallery modes with a spacing of 0.33 nm and high-quality factors of 10⁵. By carefully engineering these high-quality factor resonances, and further exploiting the properties of existing nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond microspheres and diamond waveguides in such configurations, it should be possible to realize filtering, sensing and nonlinear optical applications in integrated diamond photonics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crystallography and Crystal Chemistry)

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20 pages, 4675 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phenylacetonitrile (C₆H₅CH₂CN) Ionic Liquid Blends as Alternative Electrolytes for Safe and High-Performance Supercapacitors

by Flavien Ivol, Marina Porcher, Arunabh Ghosh, Johan Jacquemin and Fouad Ghamouss

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2697; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112697 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4135

Abstract

The increasing need in the development of storage devices is calling for the formulation of alternative electrolytes, electrochemically stable and safe over a wide range of conditions. To achieve this goal, electrolyte chemistry must be explored to propose alternative solvents and salts to [...] Read more.

The increasing need in the development of storage devices is calling for the formulation of alternative electrolytes, electrochemically stable and safe over a wide range of conditions. To achieve this goal, electrolyte chemistry must be explored to propose alternative solvents and salts to the current acetonitrile (ACN) and tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (Et₄NBF₄) benchmarks, respectively. Herein, phenylacetonitrile (Ph-ACN) has been proposed as a novel alternative solvent to ACN in supercapacitors. To establish the main advantages and drawbacks of such a substitution, Ph-ACN + Et₄NBF₄ blends were formulated and characterized prior to being compared with the benchmark electrolyte and another alternative electrolyte based on adiponitrile (ADN). While promising results were obtained, the low Et₄NBF₄ solubility in Ph-ACN seems to be the main limiting factor. To solve such an issue, an ionic liquid (IL), namely 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis [(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl] imide (EmimTFSI), was proposed to replace Et₄NBF₄. Unsurprisingly, the Ph-ACN + EmimTFSI blend was found to be fully miscible over the whole range of composition giving thus the flexibility to optimize the electrolyte formulation over a large range of IL concentrations up to 4.0 M. The electrolyte containing 2.7 M of EmimTFSI in Ph-ACN was identified as the optimized blend thanks to its interesting transport properties. Furthermore, this blend possesses also the prerequisites of a safe electrolyte, with an operating liquid range from at least −60 °C to +130 °C, and operating window of 3.0 V and more importantly, a flash point of 125 °C. Finally, excellent electrochemical performances were observed by using this electrolyte in a symmetric supercapacitor configuration, showing another advantage of mixing an ionic liquid with Ph-ACN. We also supported key structural descriptors by density functional theory (DFT) and COnductor-like Screening Model for Real Solvents (COSMO-RS) calculations, which can be associated to physical and electrochemical properties of the resultant electrolytes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ionic Liquids, from Their Synthesis to Their Applications)

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16 pages, 2879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Extracts Containing Saponins Affects the Stability and Biological Activity of Hempseed Oil Emulsion System

by Maciej Jarzębski, Przemysław Siejak, Wojciech Smułek, Farahnaz Fathordoobady, Yigong Guo, Jarosław Pawlicz, Tomasz Trzeciak, Przemysław Łukasz Kowalczewski, David D. Kitts, Anika Singh and Anubhav Pratap Singh

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2696; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112696 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4580

Abstract

In this study, two saponins-rich plant extracts, viz. Saponaria officinalis and Quillaja saponaria, were used as surfactants in an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion based on hempseed oil (HSO). This study focused on a low oil phase content of 2% v/v HSO [...] Read more.

In this study, two saponins-rich plant extracts, viz. Saponaria officinalis and Quillaja saponaria, were used as surfactants in an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion based on hempseed oil (HSO). This study focused on a low oil phase content of 2% v/v HSO to investigate stable emulsion systems under minimum oil phase conditions. Emulsion stability was characterized by the emulsification index (EI), centrifugation tests, droplet size distribution as well as microscopic imaging. The smallest droplets recorded by dynamic light scattering (droplets size v. number), one day after the preparation of the emulsion, were around 50–120 nm depending the on use of Saponaria and Quillaja as a surfactant and corresponding to critical micelle concentration (CMC) in the range 0–2 g/L. The surface and interfacial tension of the emulsion components were studied as well. The effect of emulsions on environmental bacteria strains was also investigated. It was observed that emulsions with Saponaria officinalis extract exhibited slight toxic activity (the cell metabolic activity reduced to 80%), in contrast to Quillaja emulsion, which induced Pseudomonas fluorescens ATCC 17400 growth. The highest-stability samples were those with doubled CMC concentration. The presented results demonstrate a possible use of oil emulsions based on plant extract rich in saponins for the food industry, biomedical and cosmetics applications, and nanoemulsion preparations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds of Fruits, Vegetables and Mushrooms)

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17 pages, 5298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vivo Wound Healing and In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Activity Evaluation of Phlomis russeliana Extract Gel Formulations

by Mehmet Evren Okur, Ayşe Esra Karadağ, Neslihan Üstündağ Okur, Yağmur Özhan, Hande Sipahi, Şule Ayla, Benay Daylan, Betül Demirci and Fatih Demirci

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2695; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112695 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4591

Abstract

The air-dried aerial parts of Phlomis russeliana (Sims) Lag. Ex Benth. was extracted by methanol and fractionated by n-hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate, respectively. The wound healing properties of P. russeliana extract gel was evaluated using the in vivo excisional wound model [...] Read more.

The air-dried aerial parts of Phlomis russeliana (Sims) Lag. Ex Benth. was extracted by methanol and fractionated by n-hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate, respectively. The wound healing properties of P. russeliana extract gel was evaluated using the in vivo excisional wound model using Balb-c mice. Initially, the P. russeliana methanol extract showed LOX inhibitory activity at IC₅₀ = 23.2 µg/mL, whereas the DPPH^• assay showed IC₅₀ = 0.89 mg/mL, and the ABTS^• assay showed IC₅₀ = 0.99 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, a remarkable anti-inflammatory activity was observed in the cell culture assay. Thereafter, activity-guided fractionation was performed by LOX enzyme inhibition assays, and the structures of the two most active fractions were revealed by both GC–FID and GC/MS analyses, simultaneously. Phytol and 1-heptadecanoic acid were characterized as the active constituents. Moreover, the P. russeliana extract gel formulation was applied for in vivo tests, where the new gel formulation supported the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity findings. As a conclusion, this experimental results support the wound healing evidence based on the ethnobotanical application of Phlomis species with further potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry II)

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21 pages, 2536 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Computational Study of the Coupled Mechanism of Thermophoretic Transportation and Mixed Convection Flow around the Surface of a Sphere

by Amir Abbas, Muhammad Ashraf, Yu-Ming Chu, Saqib Zia, Ilyas Khan and Kottakkaran Sooppy Nisar

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2694; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112694 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 2582

Abstract

The main goal of the current work was to study the coupled mechanism of thermophoretic transportation and mixed convection flow around the surface of the sphere. To analyze the characteristics of heat and fluid flow in the presence of thermophoretic transportation, a mathematical [...] Read more.

The main goal of the current work was to study the coupled mechanism of thermophoretic transportation and mixed convection flow around the surface of the sphere. To analyze the characteristics of heat and fluid flow in the presence of thermophoretic transportation, a mathematical model in terms of non-linear coupled partial differential equations obeying the laws of conservation was formulated. Moreover, the mathematical model of the proposed phenomena was approximated by implementing the finite difference scheme and boundary value problem of fourth order code BVP4C built-in scheme. The novelty point of this paper is that the primitive variable formulation is introduced to transform the system of partial differential equations into a primitive form to make the line of the algorithm smooth. Secondly, the term thermophoretic transportation in the mass equation is introduced in the mass equation and thus the effect of thermophoretic transportation can be calculated at different positions of the sphere. Basically, in this study, some favorite positions around the sphere were located, where the velocity field, temperature distribution, mass concentration, skin friction, and rate of heat transfer can be calculated simultaneously without any separation in flow around the surface of the sphere. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Computational Fluid Dynamics)

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18 pages, 3008 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Supplementation with Hydroethanolic Extract of Campomanesia xanthocarpa (Berg.) Leaves and Two Isolated Substances from the Extract on Metabolic Parameters of Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet

by Carla Maiara Lopes Cardozo, Aline Carla Inada, Claudia Andrea Lima Cardoso, Wander Fernando de Oliveira Filiú, Bernardo Barcelar de Farias, Flávio Macedo Alves, Mariana Bento Tatara, Júlio Henrique Rosa Croda, Rita de Cássia Avellaneda Guimarães, Priscila Aiko Hiane and Karine de Cássia Freitas

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2693; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112693 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2891

Abstract

There are still controversies regarding the correlation between the beneficial effects for health and the administration of isolated compounds or crude extracts in therapeutic applications. Campomanesia xanthocarpa, found in the Brazilian Cerrado, demonstrated beneficial effects in metabolic disorders associated with obesity. We [...] Read more.

There are still controversies regarding the correlation between the beneficial effects for health and the administration of isolated compounds or crude extracts in therapeutic applications. Campomanesia xanthocarpa, found in the Brazilian Cerrado, demonstrated beneficial effects in metabolic disorders associated with obesity. We investigated the effects of Campomanesia xanthocarpa hydroethanolic extract and two isolated substances from the extract (S1 and S2) in a diet-induced obesity (DIO) model. Male Swiss mice were divided into five groups: (1) American Institute of Nutrition (AIN-93M) diet, (2) high-fat diet (HF), (3) HF supplemented with C. xanthocarpa hydroethanolic leaf extract at 100 mg/kg (HFE), (4) HF supplemented with S1 at 1 mg/kg (HFS1) and (5) HF supplemented with S2 at 1 mg/kg (HFS2). The HFS1, HFS2 and HFE groups did not present decreasing body weight or visceral adiposity gain. No differences in glycemic and lipid parameters, or in the expression of protein content in two cytokines, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10), were observed. Only the HFS1 group displayed decreased food intake. Even though substantial effects such as an improvement in obesity features or the metabolic and histological parameters promoted by S1, S2 and the extract were not observed, further investigations are necessary to evaluate the principal genes and protein expressions involved in regulating food behavior promoted by S1. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Medicinal Plants)

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18 pages, 900 KiB

Open AccessReview

Lipid and Polymer-Based Nanoparticle siRNA Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy

by Francesco Mainini and Michael R. Eccles

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2692; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112692 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 99 | Viewed by 10111

Abstract

RNA interference (RNAi) uses small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to mediate gene-silencing in cells and represents an emerging strategy for cancer therapy. Successful RNAi-mediated gene silencing requires overcoming multiple physiological barriers to achieve efficient delivery of siRNAs into cells in vivo, including into tumor [...] Read more.

RNA interference (RNAi) uses small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to mediate gene-silencing in cells and represents an emerging strategy for cancer therapy. Successful RNAi-mediated gene silencing requires overcoming multiple physiological barriers to achieve efficient delivery of siRNAs into cells in vivo, including into tumor and/or host cells in the tumor micro-environment (TME). Consequently, lipid and polymer-based nanoparticle siRNA delivery systems have been developed to surmount these physiological barriers. In this article, we review the strategies that have been developed to facilitate siRNA survival in the circulatory system, siRNA movement from the blood into tissues and the TME, targeted siRNA delivery to the tumor or specific cell types, cellular uptake, and escape from endosomal degradation. We also discuss the use of various types of lipid and polymer-based carriers for cancer therapy, including a section on anti-tumor nanovaccines enhanced by siRNAs. Finally, we review current and recent clinical trials using NPs loaded with siRNAs for cancer therapy. The siRNA cancer therapeutics field is rapidly evolving, and it is conceivable that precision cancer therapy could, in the relatively near future, benefit from the combined use of cancer therapies, for example immune checkpoint blockade together with gene-targeting siRNAs, personalized for enhancing and fine-tuning a patient’s therapeutic response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Therapeutic RNA Design and Delivery)

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20 pages, 4055 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing an Improved UHPLC Method for Efficient Determination of European Pharmacopeia Process-Related Impurities in Ropinirole Hydrochloride Using Analytical Quality by Design Principles

by Tim Tome, Aleš Obreza and Zdenko Časar

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2691; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112691 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3167

Abstract

This article presents the development of a reversed-phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatographic method for determining process-related impurities in ropinirole hydrochloride drug substance applying the analytical quality by design approach. The current pharmacopeial method suffers from selectivity issues due to two coelutions of two pairs [...] Read more.

This article presents the development of a reversed-phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatographic method for determining process-related impurities in ropinirole hydrochloride drug substance applying the analytical quality by design approach. The current pharmacopeial method suffers from selectivity issues due to two coelutions of two pairs of impurities. The development of a new method began with preliminary experiments, based on which the Acquity UPLC BEH C8 was selected as the most appropriate column. The effects of six different critical method parameters (CMPs) were then investigated using a fractional factorial screening design. Column temperature, the ratio of methanol in mobile phase B, and gradient slope turned out to be highly significant CMPs in achieving critical resolutions, and they were further evaluated using a central composite face-centered response-surface design. Mathematical models were created by applying a multiple linear regression method. Based on the elution order of an unknown degradation impurity and impurity C, two design spaces were established, and for each design space an optimal combination of CMPs was determined. The method developed was validated for precision, accuracy, linearity, and sensitivity, and it was proven suitable for determining nine process-related impurities of ropinirole. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Analysis in Pharmaceutical Development and Drug Manufacturing)

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11 pages, 440 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

In Vitro Metabolic Transformation of Pharmaceuticals by Hepatic S9 Fractions from Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

by Viktoriia Burkina, Sidika Sakalli, Pham Thai Giang, Kateřina Grabicová, Andrea Vojs Staňová, Galia Zamaratskaia and Vladimir Zlabek

Molecules 2020, 25(11), 2690; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25112690 - 10 Jun 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3347

Abstract

Water from wastewater treatment plants contains concentrations of pharmaceutically active compounds as high as micrograms per liter, which can adversely affect fish health and behavior, and contaminate the food chain. Here, we tested the ability of the common carp hepatic S9 fraction to [...] Read more.

Water from wastewater treatment plants contains concentrations of pharmaceutically active compounds as high as micrograms per liter, which can adversely affect fish health and behavior, and contaminate the food chain. Here, we tested the ability of the common carp hepatic S9 fraction to produce the main metabolites from citalopram, metoprolol, sertraline, and venlafaxine. Metabolism in fish S9 fractions was compared to that in sheep. The metabolism of citalopram was further studied in fish. Our results suggest a large difference in the rate of metabolites formation between fish and sheep. Fish hepatic S9 fractions do not show an ability to form metabolites from venlafaxine, which was also the case for sheep. Citalopram, metoprolol, and sertraline were metabolized by both fish and sheep S9. Citalopram showed concentration-dependent N-desmethylcitalopram formation with V_max = 1781 pmol/min/mg and K_m = 29.7 μM. The presence of ellipticine, a specific CYP1A inhibitor, in the incubations reduced the formation of N-desmethylcitalopram by 30–100% depending on the applied concentration. These findings suggest that CYP1A is the major enzyme contributing to the formation of N-desmethylcitalopram. In summary, the results from the present in vitro study suggest that common carp can form the major metabolites of citalopram, metoprolol, and sertraline. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drugs in the Environment—Risks and Solutions)

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