Marine Drugs

16 pages, 3833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Collagen Peptides from Swim Bladders of Giant Croaker (Nibea japonica) and Their Protective Effects against H₂O₂-Induced Oxidative Damage toward Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

by Jiawen Zheng, Xiaoxiao Tian, Baogui Xu, Falei Yuan, Jianfang Gong and Zuisu Yang

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080430 - 18 Aug 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2869

Abstract

Five different proteases were used to hydrolyze the swim bladders of Nibea japonica and the hydrolysate treated by neutrase (collagen peptide named SNNHs) showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity. The extraction process of SNNHs was optimized by response surface methodology, and the [...] Read more.

Five different proteases were used to hydrolyze the swim bladders of Nibea japonica and the hydrolysate treated by neutrase (collagen peptide named SNNHs) showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity. The extraction process of SNNHs was optimized by response surface methodology, and the optimal conditions were as follows: a temperature of 47.2 °C, a pH of 7.3 and an enzyme concentration of 1100 U/g, which resulted in the maximum DPPH clearance rate of 95.44%. Peptides with a Mw of less than 1 kDa (SNNH-1) were obtained by ultrafiltration, and exhibited good scavenging activity for hydroxyl radicals, ABTS radicals and superoxide anion radicals. Furthermore, SNNH-1 significantly promoted the proliferation of HUVECs, and the protective effect of SNNH-1 against oxidative damage of H₂O₂-induced HUVECs was investigated. The results indicated that all groups receiving SNNH-1 pretreatment showed an increase in GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT activities compared with the model group. In addition, SNNH-1 pretreatment reduced the levels of ROS and MDA in HUVECs with H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage. These results indicate that collagen peptides from swim bladders of Nibea japonica can significantly reduce the oxidative stress damage caused by H₂O₂ in HUVECs and provides a basis for the application of collagen peptides in the food industry, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Skeletal Biopolymers and Proteins, and Their Biomedical Application)

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20 pages, 4652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Physicochemical Characteristics and Macrophage Immunostimulatory Activities of Polysaccharides from Chlamys farreri

by Fulin Shi, Zhicong Liu, Yang Liu, Kit-Leong Cheong, Bo Teng and Bilal Muhammad Khan

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080429 - 17 Aug 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2570

Abstract

To address the structure–activity relationship of Chlamys farreri polysaccharides on their immunostimulatory efficacy, two polysaccharides (CFP-1 and CFP-2) were extracted from Chlamys farreri by hot water extraction, and separated through column chromatography. The isolated CFPs were chemically analyzed to clarify their physicochemical characteristics [...] Read more.

To address the structure–activity relationship of Chlamys farreri polysaccharides on their immunostimulatory efficacy, two polysaccharides (CFP-1 and CFP-2) were extracted from Chlamys farreri by hot water extraction, and separated through column chromatography. The isolated CFPs were chemically analyzed to clarify their physicochemical characteristics and cultured with murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells, in order to evaluate their immunostimulatory efficacy. Despite the fact that both CFP-1 and CFP-2 were mainly comprised of glucose lacking the triple-helix structure, as revealed through preliminary physicochemical analyses, obvious differences in regard to molecular weight (Mw), glucuronic acid content (GAc) and branching degree (BD) were observed between CFP-1 and CFP-2. In in vitro immunostimulatory assays for macrophage RAW264.7 cells, it was demonstrated that CFP-2 with larger Mw, more GAc and BD could evidently promote phagocytosis and increase the production of NO, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β secretion, by activating the expression of iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β genes, respectively. Hence, CFP-2 shows great promise as a potential immunostimulatory agent in the functional foods and nutraceutical industry, while CFP-1, with lower molecular weight, less GAc and BD, displays its weaker immunostimulatory efficacy, based on the indistinctive immunostimulatory parameters of CFP-1. Full article

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11 pages, 3927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Involvement of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Hepatorenal Toxicity of Actinomycin V In Vitro and In Vivo

by Fu-juan Jia, Zhuo Han, Jia-hui Ma, Shi-qing Jiang, Xing-ming Zhao, Hang Ruan, Wei-dong Xie and Xia Li

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080428 - 15 Aug 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2285

Abstract

The high toxicity of actinomycin D (Act D) severely limits its use as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent in the clinic. Actinomycin V (Act V), an analog of Act D, exhibited strong anticancer activity in our previous studies. Here, we provide evidence that Act [...] Read more.

The high toxicity of actinomycin D (Act D) severely limits its use as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent in the clinic. Actinomycin V (Act V), an analog of Act D, exhibited strong anticancer activity in our previous studies. Here, we provide evidence that Act V has less hepatorenal toxicity than Act D in vitro and in vivo, associated with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathway. Compared to Act D, Act V exhibited considerably stronger sensitivity for cancer cells and less toxicity to human normal liver LO-2 and human embryonic kidney 293T cells using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide) assay. Notably, Act V caused less damage to both the liver and kidney than Act D in vivo, indicated by organ to body weight ratios, as well as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and serum creatinine (Scr) levels. Further experiments showed that the ROS pathway is involved in Act V-induced hepatorenal toxicity. Act V generates ROS and accumulates malondialdehyde (MDA), reducing levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) in LO-2 and 293T cells. These findings indicate that Act V induces less hepatorenal toxicity than Act D in vitro and in vivo and merits further development as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer. Full article

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12 pages, 1858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Photoaging and Anti-Melanogenesis Effects of Fucoidan Isolated from Hizikia fusiforme and Its Underlying Mechanisms

by Lei Wang, Jae-Young Oh, Young-Sang Kim, Hyo-Geun Lee, Jung-Suck Lee and You-Jin Jeon

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080427 - 15 Aug 2020

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4202

Abstract

Previous studies suggested that fucoidan with a molecular weight of 102.67 kDa, isolated from Hizikia fusiforme, possesses strong antioxidant activity. To explore the cosmeceutical potential of fucoidan, its anti-photoaging and anti-melanogenesis effects were evaluated in the present study. The anti-photoaging effect was [...] Read more.

Previous studies suggested that fucoidan with a molecular weight of 102.67 kDa, isolated from Hizikia fusiforme, possesses strong antioxidant activity. To explore the cosmeceutical potential of fucoidan, its anti-photoaging and anti-melanogenesis effects were evaluated in the present study. The anti-photoaging effect was investigated in ultraviolet (UV) B-irradiated human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells), where fucoidan effectively reduced the intracellular reactive oxygen species level and improved the viability of the UVB-irradiated cells without any cytotoxic effects. Moreover, fucoidan significantly decreased UVB-induced apoptosis in HaCaT cells by regulating the protein expression of Bax, Bcl-xL, PARP, and Caspase-3 in HaCaT cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The anti-melanogenesis effect of fucoidan was evaluated in B16F10 melanoma cells that had been stimulated with alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), and fucoidan treatment remarkably inhibited melanin synthesis in α-MSH-stimulated B16F10 cells. Further studies indicated that fucoidan significantly suppressed the expression of tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-1 and -2 (TRP-1 and-2) in B16F10 cells by down-regulating microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) through regulation of the ERK–MAPK (extracellular signal regulated kinase-mitogen activated protein kinase) pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that fucoidan isolated from H. fusiforme possesses strong anti-photoaging and anti-melanogenesis activities and can be used as an ingredient in the pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antiphotoaging and Photoprotective Compounds from Marine Organisms)

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14 pages, 2988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Secondary Metabolites with Nitric Oxide Inhibition from Marine-Derived Fungus Alternaria sp. 5102

by Senhua Chen, Yanlian Deng, Chong Yan, Zhenger Wu, Heng Guo, Lan Liu and Hongju Liu

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080426 - 14 Aug 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2437

Abstract

Two new benzofurans, alternabenzofurans A and B (1 and 2) and two new sesquiterpenoids, alternaterpenoids A and B (3 and 4), along with 18 known polyketides (5−22), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Alternaria sp. [...] Read more.

Two new benzofurans, alternabenzofurans A and B (1 and 2) and two new sesquiterpenoids, alternaterpenoids A and B (3 and 4), along with 18 known polyketides (5−22), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Alternaria sp. 5102. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses (1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESIMS, and ECD) and X-ray crystallography, as well as the modified Mosher’s method. Compounds 2, 3, 5, 7, 9–18, and 20–22 exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of NO in RAW264.7 cells activated by lipopolysaccharide with IC₅₀ values in the range from 1.3 to 41.1 μM. Structure-activity relationships of the secondary metabolites were discussed. Full article

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7 pages, 592 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Studies of Conorfamide-Sr3 on Human Voltage-Gated Kv1 Potassium Channel Subtypes

by Estuardo López-Vera, Luis Martínez-Hernández, Manuel B. Aguilar, Elisa Carrillo and Joanna Gajewiak

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080425 - 13 Aug 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2303

Abstract

Recently, Conorfamide-Sr3 (CNF-Sr3) was isolated from the venom of Conus spurius and was demonstrated to have an inhibitory concentration-dependent effect on the Shaker K⁺ channel. The voltage-gated potassium channels play critical functions on cellular signaling, from the regeneration of action potentials in [...] Read more.

Recently, Conorfamide-Sr3 (CNF-Sr3) was isolated from the venom of Conus spurius and was demonstrated to have an inhibitory concentration-dependent effect on the Shaker K⁺ channel. The voltage-gated potassium channels play critical functions on cellular signaling, from the regeneration of action potentials in neurons to the regulation of insulin secretion in pancreatic cells, among others. In mammals, there are at least 40 genes encoding voltage-gated K⁺ channels and the process of expression of some of them may include alternative splicing. Given the enormous variety of these channels and the proven use of conotoxins as tools to distinguish different ligand- and voltage-gated ion channels, in this work, we explored the possible effect of CNF-Sr3 on four human voltage-gated K⁺ channel subtypes homologous to the Shaker channel. CNF-Sr3 showed a 10 times higher affinity for the Kv1.6 subtype with respect to Kv1.3 (IC₅₀ = 2.7 and 24 μM, respectively) and no significant effect on Kv1.4 and Kv1.5 at 10 µM. Thus, CNF-Sr3 might become a novel molecular probe to study diverse aspects of human Kv1.3 and Kv1.6 channels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cone Snail Venom Peptides, from Treasure Hunt to Drug Leads)

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21 pages, 1109 KiB

Open AccessReview

Marine Bioactive Peptides—An Overview of Generation, Structure and Application with a Focus on Food Sources

by Milica Pavlicevic, Elena Maestri and Marta Marmiroli

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080424 - 13 Aug 2020

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5816

Abstract

The biggest obstacles in the application of marine peptides are two-fold, as in the case of non-marine plant and animal-derived bioactive peptides: elucidating correlation between the peptide structure and its effect and demonstrating its stability in vivo. The structures of marine bioactive peptides [...] Read more.

The biggest obstacles in the application of marine peptides are two-fold, as in the case of non-marine plant and animal-derived bioactive peptides: elucidating correlation between the peptide structure and its effect and demonstrating its stability in vivo. The structures of marine bioactive peptides are highly variable and complex and dependent on the sources from which they are isolated. They can be cyclical, in the form of depsipeptides, and often contain secondary structures. Because of steric factors, marine-derived peptides can be resistant to proteolysis by gastrointestinal proteases, which presents an advantage over other peptide sources. Because of heterogeneity, amino acid sequences as well as preferred mechanisms of peptides showing specific bioactivities differ compared to their animal-derived counterparts. This review offers insights on the extreme diversity of bioactivities, effects, and structural features, analyzing 253 peptides, mainly from marine food sources. Similar to peptides in food of non-marine animal origin, a significant percentage (52.7%) of the examined sequences contain one or more proline residues, implying that proline might play a significant role in the stability of bioactive peptides. Additional problems with analyzing marine-derived bioactive peptides include their accessibility, extraction, and purification; this review considers the challenges and proposes possible solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Bioactive Peptides II: Structure, Function, and Therapeutic Potential)

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32 pages, 2729 KiB

Open AccessReview

Oxidative Stress and Marine Carotenoids: Application by Using Nanoformulations

by Yasin Genç, Hilal Bardakci, Çiğdem Yücel, Gökçe Şeker Karatoprak, Esra Küpeli Akkol, Timur Hakan Barak and Eduardo Sobarzo-Sánchez

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080423 - 13 Aug 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5452

Abstract

Carotenoids are natural fat-soluble pigments synthesized by plants, algae, fungi and microorganisms. They are responsible for the coloration of different photosynthetic organisms. Although they play a role in photosynthesis, they are also present in non-photosynthetic plant tissues, fungi, and bacteria. These metabolites have [...] Read more.

Carotenoids are natural fat-soluble pigments synthesized by plants, algae, fungi and microorganisms. They are responsible for the coloration of different photosynthetic organisms. Although they play a role in photosynthesis, they are also present in non-photosynthetic plant tissues, fungi, and bacteria. These metabolites have mainly been used in food, cosmetics, and the pharmaceutical industry. In addition to their utilization as pigmentation, they have significant therapeutically applications, such as improving immune system and preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Primarily, they have attracted attention due to their antioxidant activity. Several statistical investigations indicated an association between the use of carotenoids in diets and a decreased incidence of cancer types, suggesting the antioxidant properties of these compounds as an important factor in the scope of the studies against oxidative stress. Unusual marine environments are associated with a great chemical diversity, resulting in novel bioactive molecules. Thus, marine organisms may represent an important source of novel biologically active substances for the development of therapeutics. Marine carotenoids (astaxanthin, fucoxanthin, β-carotene, lutein but also the rare siphonaxanthin, sioxanthin, and myxol) have recently shown antioxidant properties in reducing oxidative stress markers. Numerous of bioactive compounds such as marine carotenoids have low stability, are poorly absorbed, and own very limited bioavailability. The new technique is nanoencapsulation, which can be used to preserve marine carotenoids and their original properties during processing, storage, improve their physiochemical properties and increase their health-promoting effects. This review aims to describe the role of marine carotenoids, their potential applications and different types of advanced nanoformulations preventing and treating oxidative stress related disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Carotenoids in Inflammation and Cancer)

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14 pages, 4214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

α-Conotoxin as Potential to α7-nAChR Recombinant Expressed in Escherichia coli

by Yanli Liu, Yifeng Yin, Yunyang Song, Kang Wang, Fanghui Wu and Hui Jiang

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080422 - 12 Aug 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2656

Abstract

α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) is an important nicotinic acetylcholine receptors subtype and closely associated with cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia disease. The mutant ArIB (V11L, V16A) of α-conotoxin ArIB with 17-amino acid residues specifically targets α7 nAChR with no obvious [...] Read more.

α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) is an important nicotinic acetylcholine receptors subtype and closely associated with cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia disease. The mutant ArIB (V11L, V16A) of α-conotoxin ArIB with 17-amino acid residues specifically targets α7 nAChR with no obvious effect on other nAChR subtypes. In the study, the synthetic gene encoding mature peptide of ArIB and mutant ArIB (V11L, V16A) carried a fusion protein Trx and 6 × His-tag was separately inserted in pET-32a (+) vector and transformed into Escherichia coli strain BL21(DE3) pLysS for expression. The expressions of Trx-ArIB-His₆ and Trx-ArIB (V11L, V16A)-His₆ were soluble in Escherichia coli, which were purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography column and cleaved by enterokinase to release rArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A). Then, rArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A) were purified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Bioactivity of rArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A) was assessed by two-electrode voltage-clamp electrophysiology in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing human nAChR subtypes. The results indicated that the yield of the fusion proteins was approximately 50 mg/L and rArIB (V11L, V16A) antagonized the α7 nAChR subtype selectively with 8-nM IC₅₀. In summary, this study provides an efficient method to biosynthesize α-conotoxin ArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A) in Escherichia coli, which could be economical to obtain massively bioactive disulfide-rich polypeptides at fast speed. Full article

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16 pages, 4520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunomodulatory Effects of N-Acetyl Chitooligosaccharides on RAW264.7 Macrophages

by Jun-Jin Deng, Zong-Qiu Li, Ze-Quan Mo, Shun Xu, He-Hua Mao, Dan Shi, Zhi-Wei Li, Xue-Ming Dan and Xiao-Chun Luo

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080421 - 12 Aug 2020

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 3939

Abstract

The ongoing development of new production methods may lead to the commercialization of N-acetyl chitooligosaccharides (NACOS), such as chitosan oligosaccharides (COS). The bioactivity of NACOS, although not well detailed, differs from that of COS, as they have more acetyl groups than COS. [...] Read more.

The ongoing development of new production methods may lead to the commercialization of N-acetyl chitooligosaccharides (NACOS), such as chitosan oligosaccharides (COS). The bioactivity of NACOS, although not well detailed, differs from that of COS, as they have more acetyl groups than COS. We used two enzymatically produced NACOS with different molecular compositions and six NACOS (NACOS1–6) with a single degree of polymerization to verify their immunomodulatory effects on the RAW264.7 macrophage cell line. We aimed to identify any differences between COS and various NACOS with a single degree of polymerization. The results showed that NACOS had similar immune enhancement effects on RAW264.7 cells as COS, including the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), phagocytotic activity, and the production of pro-inflammation cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). However, unlike COS and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), NACOS1 and NACOS6 significantly inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production. Besides their immune enhancement effects, NACOS also significantly inhibited the LPS-induced RAW264.7 inflammatory response with some differences between various polymerization degrees. We confirmed that the NF-κB pathway is associated with the immunomodulatory effects of NACOS on RAW264.7 cells. This study could inform the application of NACOS with varying different degrees of polymerization in human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Marine Polysaccharides)

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11 pages, 5357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biocompatibility of a Marine Collagen-Based Scaffold In Vitro and In Vivo

by Dafna Benayahu, Leslie Pomeraniec, Shai Shemesh, Snir Heller, Yoav Rosenthal, Lea Rath-Wolfson and Yehuda Benayahu

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080420 - 11 Aug 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3143

Abstract

Scaffold material is essential in providing mechanical support to tissue, allowing stem cells to improve their function in the healing and repair of trauma sites and tissue regeneration. The scaffold aids cell organization in the damaged tissue. It serves and allows bio mimicking [...] Read more.

Scaffold material is essential in providing mechanical support to tissue, allowing stem cells to improve their function in the healing and repair of trauma sites and tissue regeneration. The scaffold aids cell organization in the damaged tissue. It serves and allows bio mimicking the mechanical and biological properties of the target tissue and facilitates cell proliferation and differentiation at the regeneration site. In this study, the developed and assayed bio-composite made of unique collagen fibers and alginate hydrogel supports the function of cells around the implanted material. We used an in vivo rat model to study the scaffold effects when transplanted subcutaneously and as an augment for tendon repair. Animals’ well-being was measured by their weight and daily activity post scaffold transplantation during their recovery. At the end of the experiment, the bio-composite was histologically examined, and the surrounding tissues around the implant were evaluated for inflammation reaction and scarring tissue. In the histology, the formation of granulation tissue and fibroblasts that were part of the inclusion process of the implanted material were noted. At the transplanted sites, inflammatory cells, such as plasma cells, macrophages, and giant cells, were also observed as expected at this time point post transplantation. This study demonstrated not only the collagen-alginate device biocompatibility, with no cytotoxic effects on the analyzed rats, but also that the 3D structure enables cell migration and new blood vessel formation needed for tissue repair. Overall, the results of the current study proved for the first time that the implantable scaffold for long-term confirms the well-being of these rats and is correspondence to biocompatibility ISO standards and can be further developed for medical devices application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Skeletal Biopolymers and Proteins, and Their Biomedical Application)

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19 pages, 7766 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Chitosan–Gentamicin Conjugate Supplement on Non-Specific Immunity, Aquaculture Water, Intestinal Histology and Microbiota of Pacific White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

by Fengyan Liang, Chengpeng Li, Tingting Hou, Chongqing Wen, Songzhi Kong, Dong Ma, Chengbo Sun and Sidong Li

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080419 - 10 Aug 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3502

Abstract

When the aquaculture water environment deteriorates or the temperature rises, shrimp are susceptible to viral or bacterial infections, causing a large number of deaths. This study comprehensively evaluated the effects of the oral administration of a chitosan–gentamicin conjugate (CS-GT) after Litopenaeus vannamei were [...] Read more.

When the aquaculture water environment deteriorates or the temperature rises, shrimp are susceptible to viral or bacterial infections, causing a large number of deaths. This study comprehensively evaluated the effects of the oral administration of a chitosan–gentamicin conjugate (CS-GT) after Litopenaeus vannamei were infected with Vibrio parahaemolyticus, through nonspecific immunity parameter detection, intestinal morphology observation, and the assessment of microbial flora diversification by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed that the oral administration of CS-GT significantly increased total hemocyte counts and reduced hemocyte apoptosis in shrimp (p < 0.05). The parameters (including superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, lysozyme, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and phenoloxidase) were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The integrity of the intestinal epithelial cells and basement membrane were enhanced, which correspondingly alleviated intestinal injury. In terms of the microbiome, the abundances of Vibrio (Gram-negative bacteria and food-borne pathogens) in the water and gut were significantly reduced. The canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that the abundances of Vibrio both in the water and gut were negatively correlated with CS-GT dosage. In conclusion, the oral administration of CS-GT can improve the immunity of shrimp against pathogenic bacteria and significantly reduce the relative abundances of Vibrio in aquaculture water and the gut of Litopenaeus vannamei. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine-Derived Compounds Applied in Infectious Diseases)

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14 pages, 1249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemistry of Renieramycins. Part 19: Semi-Syntheses of 22-O-Amino Ester and Hydroquinone 5-O-Amino Ester Derivatives of Renieramycin M and Their Cytotoxicity against Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cell Lines

by Supakarn Chamni, Natchanun Sirimangkalakitti, Pithi Chanvorachote, Khanit Suwanborirux and Naoki Saito

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080418 - 10 Aug 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2870

Abstract

Two new series of synthetic renieramycins including 22-O-amino ester and hydroquinone 5-O-amino ester derivatives of renieramycin M were semi-synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxicity against the metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer H292 and H460 cell lines. Interestingly, the series of [...] Read more.

Two new series of synthetic renieramycins including 22-O-amino ester and hydroquinone 5-O-amino ester derivatives of renieramycin M were semi-synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxicity against the metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer H292 and H460 cell lines. Interestingly, the series of 22-O-amino ester derivatives displayed a potent cytotoxic activity greater than the hydroquinone derivatives. The most cytotoxic derivative of the series was the 22-O-(N-Boc-l-glycine) ester of renieramycin M (5a: IC₅₀ 3.56 nM), which showed 7-fold higher potency than renieramycin M (IC₅₀ 24.56 nM) and 61-fold more than jorunnamycin A (IC₅₀ 217.43 nM) against H292 cells. In addition, 5a exhibited a significantly higher cytotoxic activity than doxorubicin (ca. 100 times). The new semi-synthetic renieramycin derivatives will be further studied and developed as potential cytotoxic agents for non-small-cell lung cancer treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Modification of Marine Natural Products)

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14 pages, 2518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Peptide TP4 Targets Mitochondrial Adenine Nucleotide Translocator 2

by Bor-Chyuan Su, Yi-Chung Liu, Chen-Hung Ting, Ping-Chiang Lyu and Jyh-Yih Chen

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080417 - 09 Aug 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3081

Abstract

Tilapia piscidin (TP) 4 is an antimicrobial peptide derived from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), which shows broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and excellent cancer-killing ability in vitro and in vivo. Like many other antimicrobial peptides, TP4 treatment causes mitochondrial toxicity in cancer cells. [...] Read more.

Tilapia piscidin (TP) 4 is an antimicrobial peptide derived from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), which shows broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and excellent cancer-killing ability in vitro and in vivo. Like many other antimicrobial peptides, TP4 treatment causes mitochondrial toxicity in cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TP4 targeting of mitochondria remain unclear. In this study, we used a pull-down assay on A549 cell lysates combined with LC-MS/MS to discover that TP4 targets adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT) 2, a protein essential for adenine nucleotide exchange across the inner membrane. We further showed that TP4 accumulates in mitochondria and colocalizes with ANT2. Moreover, molecular docking studies showed that the interaction requires Phe1, Ile2, His3, His4, Ser11, Lys14, His17, Arg21, Arg24 and Arg25 residues in TP4 and key residues within the cavity of ANT2. These findings suggest a mechanism by which TP4 may induce mitochondrial dysfunction to disrupt cellular energy metabolism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Marine Antimicrobial Peptides)

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12 pages, 3778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of a New Intracellular Alginate Lyase with Metal Ions-Tolerant and pH-Stable Properties

by Yan Ma, Jie Li, Xin-Yue Zhang, Hao-Dong Ni, Feng-Biao Wang, Hai-Ying Wang and Zhi-Peng Wang

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080416 - 09 Aug 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2607

Abstract

Alginate lyases play an important role in alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) preparation and brown seaweed processing. Many extracellular alginate lyases have been characterized to develop efficient degradation tools needed for industrial applications. However, few studies focusing on intracellular alginate lyases have been conducted. In [...] Read more.

Alginate lyases play an important role in alginate oligosaccharides (AOS) preparation and brown seaweed processing. Many extracellular alginate lyases have been characterized to develop efficient degradation tools needed for industrial applications. However, few studies focusing on intracellular alginate lyases have been conducted. In this work, a novel intracellular alkaline alginate lyase Alyw202 from Vibrio sp. W2 was cloned, expressed and characterized. Secretory expression was performed in a food-grade host, Yarrowia lipolytica. Recombinant Alyw202 with a molecular weight of approximately 38.3 kDa exhibited the highest activity at 45 °C and more than 60% of the activity in a broad pH range of 3.0 to 10.0. Furthermore, Alyw202 showed remarkable metal ion-tolerance, NaCl independence and the capacity of degrading alginate into oligosaccharides of DP2-DP4. Due to the unique pH-stable and high salt-tolerant properties, Alyw202 has potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Enzymes: Sources, Biochemistry and Bioprocesses for Marine Biotechnology – II)

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13 pages, 3519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Tumor Effects of Astaxanthin by Inhibition of the Expression of STAT3 in Prostate Cancer

by Shao-Qian Sun, You-Xi Zhao, Si-Yu Li, Jing-Wen Qiang and Yi-Zhi Ji

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080415 - 07 Aug 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4913

Abstract

Astaxanthin is a natural product gaining increasing attention due to its safety and anti-cancer properties. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of the anti-cancer effects of astaxanthin on prostate cancer (PCa) cell lines using aggressive PCa DU145 cells. Also an instantaneous silenced [...] Read more.

Astaxanthin is a natural product gaining increasing attention due to its safety and anti-cancer properties. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of the anti-cancer effects of astaxanthin on prostate cancer (PCa) cell lines using aggressive PCa DU145 cells. Also an instantaneous silenced cell line (si-STAT3) derived from DU145 and a control cell line (si-NK) were used for the MTT and colony formation assays to determine the role of astaxanthin in proliferation and colony formation abilities. Flow cytometry assays were used to detect the apoptosis of tumor cells. Migration and invasion assays detected the weakening of the respective abilities. Western blot and RT-PCR tests detected the levels of STAT3 protein and mRNA. Astaxanthin resulted in suppression of the proliferation of DU145 cells and the level of STAT3. The treatment of DU145 cells with astaxanthin decreased the cloning ability, increased the apoptosis percentage and weakened the abilities of migration and invasion of the cells. Furthermore, astaxanthin reduced the expression of STAT3 at protein and mRNA levels. The effects were enhanced when astaxanthin and si-STAT3 were combined. The results of animal experiments were consistent with the results in cells. Thus, astaxanthin inhibits the proliferation of DU145 cells by reducing the expression of STAT3. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Natural Products as Anticancer Agents)

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18 pages, 6578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Food Waste to Innovative Biomaterial: Sea Urchin-Derived Collagen for Applications in Skin Regenerative Medicine

by Cinzia Ferrario, Francesco Rusconi, Albana Pulaj, Raffaella Macchi, Paolo Landini, Moira Paroni, Graziano Colombo, Tiziana Martinello, Luca Melotti, Chiara Gomiero, M. Daniela Candia Carnevali, Francesco Bonasoro, Marco Patruno and Michela Sugni

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080414 - 06 Aug 2020

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 6280

Abstract

Collagen-based skin-like scaffolds (CBSS) are promising alternatives to skin grafts to repair wounds and injuries. In this work, we propose that the common marine invertebrate sea urchin represents a promising and eco-friendly source of native collagen to develop innovative CBSS for skin injury [...] Read more.

Collagen-based skin-like scaffolds (CBSS) are promising alternatives to skin grafts to repair wounds and injuries. In this work, we propose that the common marine invertebrate sea urchin represents a promising and eco-friendly source of native collagen to develop innovative CBSS for skin injury treatment. Sea urchin food waste after gonad removal was here used to extract fibrillar glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-rich collagen to produce bilayer (2D + 3D) CBSS. Microstructure, mechanical stability, permeability to water and proteins, ability to exclude bacteria and act as scaffolding for fibroblasts were evaluated. Our data show that the thin and dense 2D collagen membrane strongly reduces water evaporation (less than 5% of water passes through the membrane after 7 days) and protein diffusion (less than 2% of BSA passes after 7 days), and acts as a barrier against bacterial infiltration (more than 99% of the different tested bacterial species is retained by the 2D collagen membrane up to 48 h), thus functionally mimicking the epidermal layer. The thick sponge-like 3D collagen scaffold, structurally and functionally resembling the dermal layer, is mechanically stable in wet conditions, biocompatible in vitro (seeded fibroblasts are viable and proliferate), and efficiently acts as a scaffold for fibroblast infiltration. Thus, thanks to their chemical and biological properties, CBSS derived from sea urchins might represent a promising, eco-friendly, and economically sustainable biomaterial for tissue regenerative medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regenerative Potential of Marine Natural Compounds)

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24 pages, 3877 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptomic Analysis of Four Cerianthid (Cnidaria, Ceriantharia) Venoms

by Anna M. L. Klompen, Jason Macrander, Adam M. Reitzel and Sérgio N. Stampar

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080413 - 05 Aug 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6649

Abstract

Tube anemones, or cerianthids, are a phylogenetically informative group of cnidarians with complex life histories, including a pelagic larval stage and tube-dwelling adult stage, both known to utilize venom in stinging-cell rich tentacles. Cnidarians are an entirely venomous group that utilize their proteinaceous-dominated [...] Read more.

Tube anemones, or cerianthids, are a phylogenetically informative group of cnidarians with complex life histories, including a pelagic larval stage and tube-dwelling adult stage, both known to utilize venom in stinging-cell rich tentacles. Cnidarians are an entirely venomous group that utilize their proteinaceous-dominated toxins to capture prey and defend against predators, in addition to several other ecological functions, including intraspecific interactions. At present there are no studies describing the venom for any species within cerianthids. Given their unique development, ecology, and distinct phylogenetic-placement within Cnidaria, our objective is to evaluate the venom-like gene diversity of four species of cerianthids from newly collected transcriptomic data. We identified 525 venom-like genes between all four species. The venom-gene profile for each species was dominated by enzymatic protein and peptide families, which is consistent with previous findings in other cnidarian venoms. However, we found few toxins that are typical of sea anemones and corals, and furthermore, three of the four species express toxin-like genes closely related to potent pore-forming toxins in box jellyfish. Our study is the first to provide a survey of the putative venom composition of cerianthids and contributes to our general understanding of the diversity of cnidarian toxins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthozoan Toxins: Using New Approaches to Understand Their Composition, Distribution, and Function)

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6 pages, 387 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Fucoidan Supplementation Restores Fecal Lysozyme Concentrations in High-Performance Athletes: A Pilot Study

by Amanda J. Cox, Allan W. Cripps, Phillipa A. Taylor, J. Helen Fitton and Nicholas P. West

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080412 - 04 Aug 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3692

Abstract

Nutritional strategies to help promote immune competence are of particular interest for a range of population groups. This study aimed to assess the potential impacts of fucoidan, a seaweed-derived bioactive polysaccharide, on gut markers of immunity and inflammation. A group of professional team-sport [...] Read more.

Nutritional strategies to help promote immune competence are of particular interest for a range of population groups. This study aimed to assess the potential impacts of fucoidan, a seaweed-derived bioactive polysaccharide, on gut markers of immunity and inflammation. A group of professional team-sport athletes were selected for inclusion in the study given the recognized potential for intense physical activity to induce alterations in immune function. A retrospective analysis was performed on stored fecal samples which had been collected from professional team-sport athletes (n = 22) and healthy adults (n = 11) before and after seven days of supplementation with fucoidan (Fucus vesiculosus/Undaria pinnatifida extract, 1 g/d). Fecal concentrations of calprotectin, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and lysozyme were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The supplement was well tolerated by participants with no adverse events reported. At baseline, fecal lysozyme concentrations were ~73% higher in the healthy adults compared to the professional athletes (p = 0.001). For the professional athletes, a significant (~45%) increase in fecal lysozyme was observed following the supplementation period (p = 0.001). These data suggest that fucoidan supplementation may have the potential to promote the secretion of antimicrobial peptides in specific population groups and contribute to the regulation of mucosal immune health. Full article

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32 pages, 5488 KiB

Open AccessReview

Progress of Bromophenols in Marine Algae from 2011 to 2020: Structure, Bioactivities, and Applications

by Hui Dong, Songtao Dong, Poul Erik Hansen, Dimitrios Stagos, Xiukun Lin and Ming Liu

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080411 - 04 Aug 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3821

Abstract

Marine algae contain various bromophenols that have been shown to possess a variety of biological activities, including antiradical, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory effects, and so on. Here, we briefly review the recent progress of these marine algae biomaterials and their derivatives from 2011 [...] Read more.

Marine algae contain various bromophenols that have been shown to possess a variety of biological activities, including antiradical, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory effects, and so on. Here, we briefly review the recent progress of these marine algae biomaterials and their derivatives from 2011 to 2020, with respect to structure, bioactivities, and their potential application as pharmaceuticals. Full article

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11 pages, 895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Botulinum Toxin-Chitosan Nanoparticles Prevent Arrhythmia in Experimental Rat Models

by David Sergeevichev, Vladislav Fomenko, Artem Strelnikov, Anna Dokuchaeva, Maria Vasilieva, Elena Chepeleva, Yanina Rusakova, Sergey Artemenko, Alexander Romanov, Nariman Salakhutdinov and Alexander Chernyavskiy

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080410 - 02 Aug 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3095

Abstract

Several experimental studies have recently demonstrated that temporary autonomic block using botulinum toxin (BoNT/A1) might be a novel option for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. However, the assessment of antiarrhythmic properties of BoNT has so far been limited, relying exclusively on vagal stimulation [...] Read more.

Several experimental studies have recently demonstrated that temporary autonomic block using botulinum toxin (BoNT/A1) might be a novel option for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. However, the assessment of antiarrhythmic properties of BoNT has so far been limited, relying exclusively on vagal stimulation and rapid atrial pacing models. The present study examined the antiarrhythmic effect of specially formulated BoNT/A1-chitosan nanoparticles (BTN) in calcium chloride-, barium chloride- and electrically induced arrhythmia rat models. BTN enhanced the effect of BoNT/A1. Subepicardial injection of BTN resulted in a significant antiarrhythmic effect in investigated rat models. BTN formulation antagonizes arrhythmia induced by the activation of Ca, K and Na channels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ion Channels as Marine Drug Targets)

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26 pages, 5569 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Identification, Purification and Molecular Characterization of Chondrosin, a New Protein with Anti-tumoral Activity from the Marine Sponge Chondrosia Reniformis Nardo 1847

by Sonia Scarfì, Marina Pozzolini, Caterina Oliveri, Serena Mirata, Annalisa Salis, Gianluca Damonte, Daniela Fenoglio, Tiziana Altosole, Micha Ilan, Marco Bertolino and Marco Giovine

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080409 - 02 Aug 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3211

Abstract

Chondrosia reniformis is a common marine demosponge showing many peculiarities, lacking silica spicules and with a body entirely formed by a dense collagenous matrix. In this paper, we have described the identification of a new cytotoxic protein (chondrosin) with selective activity against specific [...] Read more.

Chondrosia reniformis is a common marine demosponge showing many peculiarities, lacking silica spicules and with a body entirely formed by a dense collagenous matrix. In this paper, we have described the identification of a new cytotoxic protein (chondrosin) with selective activity against specific tumor cell lines, from C. reniformis, collected from the Liguria Sea. Chondrosin was extracted and purified using a salting out approach and molecular weight size exclusion chromatography. The cytotoxic fractions were then characterized by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry analysis and matched the results with C. reniformis transcriptome database. The procedure allowed for identifying a full-length cDNA encoding for a 199-amino acids (aa) polypeptide, with a signal peptide of 21 amino acids. The mature protein has a theoretical molecular weight of 19611.12 and an IP of 5.11. Cell toxicity assays showed a selective action against some tumor cell lines (RAW 264.7 murine leukemia cells in particular). Cell death was determined by extracellular calcium intake, followed by cytoplasmic reactive oxygen species overproduction. The in silico modelling of chondrosin showed a high structural homology with the N-terminal region of the ryanodine receptor/channel and a short identity with defensin. The results are discussed suggesting a possible specific interaction of chondrosin with the Cav 1.3 ion voltage calcium channel expressed on the target cell membranes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine-Derived Products for Biomedicine)

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10 pages, 1700 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Effects of Chitosan Oligosaccharide on Plasma and Hepatic Lipid Metabolism and Liver Histomorphology in Normal Sprague-Dawley Rats

by Shing-Hwa Liu, Rui-Yi Chen and Meng-Tsan Chiang

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080408 - 02 Aug 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2611

Abstract

Chitosan oligosaccharide is known to ameliorate hypercholesterolemia and diabetes. However, some studies found that chitosan oligosaccharide might induce mild to moderate hepatic damage in high-fat (HF) diet-induced obese rats or diabetic rats. Chitosan oligosaccharide can be as a dietary supplement, functional food, or [...] Read more.

Chitosan oligosaccharide is known to ameliorate hypercholesterolemia and diabetes. However, some studies found that chitosan oligosaccharide might induce mild to moderate hepatic damage in high-fat (HF) diet-induced obese rats or diabetic rats. Chitosan oligosaccharide can be as a dietary supplement, functional food, or drug. Its possible toxic effects to normal subjects need to be clarified. This study is designed to investigate the effects of chitosan oligosaccharide on plasma and hepatic lipid metabolism and liver histomorphology in normal Sprague-Dawley rats. Diets supplemented with 5% chitosan oligosaccharide have been found to induce liver damage in HF diet-fed rats. We therefore selected 5% chitosan oligosaccharide as an experimental object. Rats were divided into: a normal control diet group and a normal control diet +5% chitosan oligosaccharide group. The experimental period was 12 weeks. The results showed that supplementation of 5% chitosan oligosaccharide did not significantly change the body weight, food intake, liver/adipose tissue weights, plasma lipids, hepatic lipids, plasma levels of AST, ALT, and TNF-α/IL-6, hepatic lipid peroxidation and anti-oxidative enzyme activities, fecal lipids, and liver histomorphology in normal rats. These findings suggest that supplementation of 5% chitosan oligosaccharide for 12 weeks may not induce lipid metabolism disorder and liver toxicity in normal rats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Marine Chitin and Chitosan)

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18 pages, 5097 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proteo-Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Potential Novel Toxins Secreted by the Predatory, Prey-Piercing Ribbon Worm Amphiporus lactifloreus

by Björn Marcus von Reumont, Tim Lüddecke, Thomas Timm, Günter Lochnit, Andreas Vilcinskas, Jörn von Döhren and Maria A. Nilsson

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080407 - 01 Aug 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4755

Abstract

Nemerteans (ribbon worms) employ toxins to subdue their prey, but research thus far has focused on the small-molecule components of mucus secretions and few protein toxins have been characterized. We carried out a preliminary proteotranscriptomic analysis of putative toxins produced by the hoplonemertean [...] Read more.

Nemerteans (ribbon worms) employ toxins to subdue their prey, but research thus far has focused on the small-molecule components of mucus secretions and few protein toxins have been characterized. We carried out a preliminary proteotranscriptomic analysis of putative toxins produced by the hoplonemertean Amphiporus lactifloreus (Hoplonemertea, Amphiporidae). No variants were found of known nemertean-specific toxin proteins (neurotoxins, cytotoxins, parbolysins or nemertides) but several toxin-like transcripts were discovered, expressed strongly in the proboscis, including putative metalloproteinases and sequences resembling sea anemone actitoxins, crown-of-thorn sea star plancitoxins, and multiple classes of inhibitor cystine knot/knottin family proteins. Some of these products were also directly identified in the mucus proteome, supporting their preliminary identification as secreted toxin components. Two new nemertean-typical toxin candidates could be described and were named U-nemertotoxin-1 and U-nemertotoxin-2. Our findings provide insight into the largely overlooked venom system of nemerteans and support a hypothesis in which the nemertean proboscis evolved in several steps from a flesh-melting organ in scavenging nemerteans to a flesh-melting and toxin-secreting venom apparatus in hunting hoplonemerteans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Venoms-Based Marine Drug Discovery: Proteomic and Transcriptomic Approaches)

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25 pages, 635 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Astaxanthin Micro/Nanoencapsulation to Improve Its Stability and Functionality as a Food Ingredient

by Óscar Martínez-Álvarez, Marta M. Calvo and Joaquín Gómez-Estaca

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080406 - 01 Aug 2020

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 5863

Abstract

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid produced by different organisms and microorganisms such as microalgae, bacteria, yeasts, protists, and plants, and it is also accumulated in aquatic animals such as fish and crustaceans. Astaxanthin and astaxanthin-containing lipid extracts obtained from these sources present an intense [...] Read more.

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid produced by different organisms and microorganisms such as microalgae, bacteria, yeasts, protists, and plants, and it is also accumulated in aquatic animals such as fish and crustaceans. Astaxanthin and astaxanthin-containing lipid extracts obtained from these sources present an intense red color and a remarkable antioxidant activity, providing great potential to be employed as food ingredients with both technological and bioactive functions. However, their use is hindered by: their instability in the presence of high temperatures, acidic pH, oxygen or light; their low water solubility, bioaccessibility and bioavailability; their intense odor/flavor. The present paper reviews recent advances in the micro/nanoencapsulation of astaxanthin and astaxanthin-containing lipid extracts, developed to improve their stability, bioactivity and technological functionality for use as food ingredients. The use of diverse micro/nanoencapsulation techniques using wall materials of a different nature to improve water solubility and dispersibility in foods, masking undesirable odor and flavor, is firstly discussed, followed by a discussion of the importance of the encapsulation to retard astaxanthin release, protecting it from degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. The nanoencapsulation of astaxanthin to improve its bioaccessibility, bioavailability and bioactivity is further reviewed. Finally, the main limitations and future trends on the topic are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Astaxanthin: A Potential Therapeutic Agent)

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18 pages, 1724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Cytotoxic Cerebrosides from the Red Sea Cucumber Holothuria spinifera Supported by In-Silico Studies

by Reda F. A. Abdelhameed, Enas E. Eltamany, Dina M. Hal, Amany K. Ibrahim, Asmaa M. AboulMagd, Tarfah Al-Warhi, Khayrya A. Youssif, Adel M. Abd El-kader, Hashim A. Hassanean, Shaimaa Fayez, Gerhard Bringmann, Safwat A. Ahmed and Usama Ramadan Abdelmohsen

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080405 - 01 Aug 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3515

Abstract

Bioactivity-guided fractionation of a methanolic extract of the Red Sea cucumber Holothuria spinifera and LC-HRESIMS-assisted dereplication resulted in the isolation of four compounds, three new cerebrosides, spiniferosides A (1), B (2), and C (3), and cholesterol sulfate [...] Read more.

Bioactivity-guided fractionation of a methanolic extract of the Red Sea cucumber Holothuria spinifera and LC-HRESIMS-assisted dereplication resulted in the isolation of four compounds, three new cerebrosides, spiniferosides A (1), B (2), and C (3), and cholesterol sulfate (4). The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were established on the basis of their 1D NMR and HRMS spectral data. Metabolic profiling of the H. spinifera extract indicated the presence of diverse secondary metabolites, mostly hydroxy fatty acids, diterpenes, triterpenes, and cerebrosides. The isolated compounds were tested for their in vitro cytotoxicities against the breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cell line. Compounds 1, 2, 3, and 4 displayed promising cytotoxic activities against MCF-7 cells, with IC₅₀ values of 13.83, 8.13, 8.27, and 35.56 µM, respectively, compared to that of the standard drug doxorubicin (IC₅₀ 8.64 µM). Additionally, docking studies were performed for compounds 1, 2, 3, and 4 to elucidate their binding interactions with the active site of the SET protein, an inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), which could explain their cytotoxic activity. This study highlights the important role of these metabolites in the defense mechanism of the sea cucumber against fouling organisms and the potential uses of these active molecules in the design of new anticancer agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutraceuticals and Pharmaceuticals from Marine Fish and Invertebrates)

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16 pages, 2004 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Exploration of the Electrophilic Reactivity of the Cytotoxic Marine Alkaloid Discorhabdin C and Subsequent Discovery of a New Dimeric C-1/N-13-Linked Discorhabdin Natural Product

by Cary F. C. Lam, Melissa M. Cadelis and Brent R. Copp

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080404 - 31 Jul 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2497

Abstract

The cytotoxic marine natural product discorhabdin C contains a 2,6-dibromo-cyclohexa-2,5-diene moiety, previously proposed to be a critical feature required for biological activity. We have determined that the dienone-ring of discorhabdin C is indeed electrophilic, reacting with thiol and amine nucleophiles, affording debrominated adducts. [...] Read more.

The cytotoxic marine natural product discorhabdin C contains a 2,6-dibromo-cyclohexa-2,5-diene moiety, previously proposed to be a critical feature required for biological activity. We have determined that the dienone-ring of discorhabdin C is indeed electrophilic, reacting with thiol and amine nucleophiles, affording debrominated adducts. In the case of reaction with 1-aminopentane the product contains an unusual C-2/N-18 ring closed, double-hydrate moiety. This electrophilic reactivity also extends to proteins, with lysozyme-discorhabdin C adducts being detected by ESI mass spectrometry. These results prompted further examination of an extract of discorhabdin C-producing sponge, Latrunculia (Latrunculia) trivetricillata, leading to the isolation and characterisation of a new example of a C-1/N-13 linked discorhabdin dimer that shared structural similarities with the 1-aminopentane-discorhabdin C adduct. To definitively assess the influence of the dienone moiety of discorhabdin C on cytotoxicity, a semi-synthetic hydrogenation derivative was prepared, affording a didebrominated ring-closed carbinolamine that was essentially devoid of tumour cell line cytotoxicity. Antiparasitic activity was assessed for a set of 14 discorhabdin alkaloids composed of natural products and semi-synthetic derivatives. Three compounds, (-)-discorhabdin L, a dimer of discorhabdin B and the discorhabdin C hydrogenation carbinolamine, exhibited pronounced activity towards Plasmodium falciparum K1 (IC₅₀ 30–90 nM) with acceptable to excellent selectivity (selectivity index 19–510) versus a non-malignant cell line. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Natural Product of the South Pacific Area)

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22 pages, 2411 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics Combined with Quantitative Analysis of the Microalgal Diatom (Chaetoceros calcitrans)

by Awanis Azizan, M. Maulidiani, Rudiyanto R., Khozirah Shaari, Intan Safinar Ismail, Norio Nagao and Faridah Abas

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 403; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080403 - 30 Jul 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3553

Abstract

Although many metabolomics studies of higher land plant species have been conducted, similar studies of lower nonland plant species, which include microalgae, are still developing. The present study represents an attempt to characterize the metabolic profile of a microalgal diatom Chaetoceros calcitrans, [...] Read more.

Although many metabolomics studies of higher land plant species have been conducted, similar studies of lower nonland plant species, which include microalgae, are still developing. The present study represents an attempt to characterize the metabolic profile of a microalgal diatom Chaetoceros calcitrans, by applying high-resolution mass spectrometry detection, via Q-ExactiveTM Plus Orbitrap mass spectrometry. The results showed that 54 metabolites of various classes were tentatively identified. Experimentally, the chloroform and acetone extracts were clearly distinguished from other solvent extracts in chemometric regression analysis using PLS, showing the differences in the C. calcitrans metabolome between the groups. In addition, specific metabolites were evaluated, which supported the finding of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study also provides data on the quantitative analysis of four carotenoids based on the identification results. Therefore, these findings could serve as a reliable tool for identifying and quantifying the metabolome that could reflect the metabolic activities of C. calcitrans. Full article

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18 pages, 8509 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antiproliferative Activity of Mycalin A and Its Analogues on Human Skin Melanoma and Human Cervical Cancer Cells

by Domenica Capasso, Nicola Borbone, Monica Terracciano, Sonia Di Gaetano and Vincenzo Piccialli

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 402; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080402 - 29 Jul 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2226

Abstract

Mycalin A, a polybrominated C₁₅ acetogenin isolated from the encrusting sponge Mycale rotalis, displays an antiproliferative activity on human melanoma (A375) and cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa) cells and induces cell death by an apoptotic mechanism. Various analogues and degraded derivatives of the [...] Read more.

Mycalin A, a polybrominated C₁₅ acetogenin isolated from the encrusting sponge Mycale rotalis, displays an antiproliferative activity on human melanoma (A375) and cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa) cells and induces cell death by an apoptotic mechanism. Various analogues and degraded derivatives of the natural substance have been prepared. A modification of the left-hand part of the molecule generates the most active substances. A structurally simplified lactone derivative of mycalin A, lacking the C1–C3 side chain, is the most active among the synthesized compounds exhibiting a strong cytotoxicity on both A375 and HeLa cells but not but not on human dermal fibroblast (HDF) used as healthy cells. Further evidence on a recently discovered chlorochromateperiodate-catalyzed process, used to oxidise mycalin A, have been collected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Marine Compounds and Cancer)

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45 pages, 5401 KiB

Open AccessReview

Marine Terpenoids from Polar Latitudes and Their Potential Applications in Biotechnology

by Laura Núñez-Pons, Andrew Shilling, Cinzia Verde, Bill J. Baker and Daniela Giordano

Mar. Drugs 2020, 18(8), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/md18080401 - 29 Jul 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5670

Abstract

Polar marine biota have adapted to thrive under one of the ocean’s most inhospitable scenarios, where extremes of temperature, light photoperiod and ice disturbance, along with ecological interactions, have selected species with a unique suite of secondary metabolites. Organisms of Arctic and Antarctic [...] Read more.

Polar marine biota have adapted to thrive under one of the ocean’s most inhospitable scenarios, where extremes of temperature, light photoperiod and ice disturbance, along with ecological interactions, have selected species with a unique suite of secondary metabolites. Organisms of Arctic and Antarctic oceans are prolific sources of natural products, exhibiting wide structural diversity and remarkable bioactivities for human applications. Chemical skeletons belonging to terpene families are the most commonly found compounds, whereas cytotoxic antimicrobial properties, the capacity to prevent infections, are the most widely reported activities from these environments. This review firstly summarizes the regulations on access and benefit sharing requirements for research in polar environments. Then it provides an overview of the natural product arsenal from Antarctic and Arctic marine organisms that displays promising uses for fighting human disease. Microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, and macroorganisms, such as sponges, macroalgae, ascidians, corals, bryozoans, echinoderms and mollusks, are the main focus of this review. The biological origin, the structure of terpenes and terpenoids, derivatives and their biotechnological potential are described. This survey aims to highlight the chemical diversity of marine polar life and the versatility of this group of biomolecules, in an effort to encourage further research in drug discovery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Molecules from Extreme Environments II)

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