Natural compounds for oxidative stress and neuroprotection in schizophrenia: composition, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential.

OBJECTIVE: An imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's antioxidant defense mechanisms is believed to be a critical factor in the development of schizophrenia (SCZ) like neurological illnesses. Understanding the roles of ROS in the development of SCZ and the potential activity of natural antioxidants against SCZ could lead to more effective therapeutic options for the prevention and treatment of the illness. METHODS: SCZ is a mental disorder characterised by progressive impairments in working memory, attention, and executive functioning. In present investigation, we summarized the experimental findings for understanding the role of oxidative stress (OS) in the development of SCZ and the potential neuroprotective effects of natural antioxidants in the treatment of SCZ. RESULTS: Current study supports the use of the mentioned antioxidant natural compounds as a potential therapeutic candidates for the treatment of OS mediated neurodegeneration in SCZ. DISCUSSION: Elevated levels of harmful ROS and reduced antioxidant defense mechanisms are indicative of increased oxidative stress (OS), which is associated with SCZ. Previous research has shown that individuals with SCZ, including non-medicated, medicated, first-episode, and chronic patients, exhibit decreased levels of total antioxidants and GSH. Additionally, they have reduced antioxidant enzyme levels such as catalase (CAT), glutathione (GPx), and, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lower serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in their brain tissue. The mentioned natural antioxidants may assist in reducing oxidative damage in individuals with SCZ and increasing BDNF expression in the brain, potentially improving cognitive function and learning ability.

Efficient chromium removal from leather industrial wastewater in batch experimental study: Green synthesis and characterization of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Ficus benghalensis extracts.

The urgent need to address the severe environmental risk posed by chromium-contaminated industrial wastewater necessitates the development of eco-friendly cleanup methodologies. Utilizing the Ficus benghalensis plant extracts, the present study aims to develop green zinc oxide nanoparticles for the removal of Cr metal ions from wastewater. The leaves of Ficus benghalensis, often known as the banyan tree, were used to extract a solution for synthesizing ZnO NPs. These nanoparticles were developed with the goal of efficiently eliminating chromium (Cr) from industrial effluents. Batch studies were carried out to assess the efficiency of these synthesized ZnO NPs in treating leather industrial effluent, with aiming for optimal chromium removal. This involved measuring the nanoparticles' capacity to adsorb Cr ions from wastewater samples by comparing chromium levels before and after treatment. Removal efficiency for Cr was estimated through the batches such as optimization of pH, contact time, initial Cr concentration and sorbent dose of ZnO NPs were of the batches. These synthesized ZnO NPs were found to be successful in lowering chromium levels in wastewater to meet permissible limit. The nanoparticles exhibited their highest absorption capacity, reaching 94 % (46 mg/g) at pH 4, with a contact time of 7 hours with the optimum sorbent dose of 0.6 g/L. Hence, the excellent adsorption capabilities of these nanoparticles, together with their environmentally benign manufacturing technique, provide a long-term and efficient solution for chromium-contaminated wastewater treatment. Its novel nature has the potential to significantly improve the safety and cleanliness of water ecosystems, protecting the both i.e. human health and the environment.

Pharmacophore Synergism in Diverse Scaffold Clinches in Aurora Kinase B.

Aurora kinase B (AKB) is a crucial signaling kinase with an important role in cell division. Therefore, inhibition of AKB is an attractive approach to the treatment of cancer. In the present work, extensive quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) analysis has been performed using a set of 561 structurally diverse aurora kinase B inhibitors. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines were used to develop a QSAR model that has high statistical performance (R2tr = 0.815, Q2LMO = 0.808, R2ex = 0.814, CCCex = 0.899). The seven-variable-based newly developed QSAR model has an excellent balance of external predictive ability (Predictive QSAR) and mechanistic interpretation (Mechanistic QSAR). The QSAR analysis successfully identifies not only the visible pharmacophoric features but also the hidden features. The analysis indicates that the lipophilic and polar groups-especially the H-bond capable groups-must be present at a specific distance from each other. Moreover, the ring nitrogen and ring carbon atoms play important roles in determining the inhibitory activity for AKB. The analysis effectively captures reported as well as unreported pharmacophoric features. The results of the present analysis are also supported by the reported crystal structures of inhibitors bound to AKB.

Synthesis and Antimicrobial, Anticancer and Anti-Oxidant Activities of Novel 2,3-Dihydropyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine-4-one and Pyrrolo[2,1-b][1,3]benzothiazole Derivatives via Microwave-Assisted Synthesis.

In our attempt towards the synthesis and development of effective antimicrobial, anticancer and antioxidant agents, a novel series of 2,3-dihydropyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-one 7a-e and pyrrolo[2,1-b][1,3]benzothiazoles 9a-e were synthesized. The synthesis of 2-(1,3-benzo thiazol-2-yl)-3-(aryl)prop-2-enenitrile (5a-e) as the key intermediate was accomplished by a microwave efficient method. Via a new variety oriented synthetic microwave pathway, these highly functionalized building blocks allowed access to numerous fused heteroaromatic such as 7-amino-6-(1,3-benzo thiazol-2-yl)-5-(aryl)-2-thioxo-2,3dihydropyrido [2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(1H)-one 7a-e and 1-amino-2-(aryl)pyrrolo[2,1-b][1,3]benzothiazole-3-carbonitrile derivatives 9a-e in order to study their antimicrobial and anticancer activity. The present investigation offers effective and rapid new procedures for the synthesis of the newly polycondensed heterocyclic ring systems. All the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for antimicrobial, anticancer and antioxidant activity. Compounds 7a,d, and 9a,d showed higher antimicrobial activity than cefotaxime and fluconazole while the remaining compounds exhibited good to moderate activity against bacteria and fungi. An anticancer evaluation of the newly synthesized compounds against the three tumor cell lines (lung cell NCI-H460, liver cancer HepG2 and colon cancer HCT-116) exhibited that compounds 7a, d, and 9a,d have higher cytotoxicity against the three human cell lines compared to doxorubicin as a reference drug. These compounds also exhibited higher antioxidant activity and a great ability to protect DNA from damage induced by bleomycin.

QSAR Evaluations to Unravel the Structural Features in Lysine-Specific Histone Demethylase 1A Inhibitors for Novel Anticancer Lead Development Supported by Molecular Docking, MD Simulation and MMGBSA.

Using 84 structurally diverse and experimentally validated LSD1/KDM1A inhibitors, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models were built by OECD requirements. In the QSAR analysis, certainly significant and understated pharmacophoric features were identified as critical for LSD1 inhibition, such as a ring Carbon atom with exactly six bonds from a Nitrogen atom, partial charges of lipophilic atoms within eight bonds from a ring Sulphur atom, a non-ring Oxygen atom exactly nine bonds from the amide Nitrogen, etc. The genetic algorithm-multi-linear regression (GA-MLR) and double cross-validation criteria were used to create robust QSAR models with high predictability. In this study, two QSAR models were developed, with fitting parameters like R2 = 0.83-0.81, F = 61.22-67.96, internal validation parameters such as Q2LOO = 0.79-0.77, Q2LMO = 0.78-0.76, CCCcv = 0.89-0.88, and external validation parameters such as, R2ext = 0.82 and CCCex = 0.90. In terms of mechanistic interpretation and statistical analysis, both QSAR models are well-balanced. Furthermore, utilizing the pharmacophoric features revealed by QSAR modelling, molecular docking experiments corroborated with the most active compound's binding to the LSD1 receptor. The docking results are then refined using Molecular dynamic simulation and MMGBSA analysis. As a consequence, the findings of the study can be used to produce LSD1/KDM1A inhibitors as anticancer leads.

QSAR, Molecular Docking, MD Simulation and MMGBSA Calculations Approaches to Recognize Concealed Pharmacophoric Features Requisite for the Optimization of ALK Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors as Anticancer Leads.

ALK tyrosine kinase ALK TK is an important target in the development of anticancer drugs. In the present work, we have performed a QSAR analysis on a dataset of 224 molecules in order to quickly predict anticancer activity on query compounds. Double cross validation assigns an upward plunge to the genetic algorithm−multi linear regression (GA-MLR) based on robust univariate and multivariate QSAR models with high statistical performance reflected in various parameters like, fitting parameters; R2 = 0.69−0.87, F = 403.46−292.11, etc., internal validation parameters; Q2LOO = 0.69−0.86, Q2LMO = 0.69−0.86, CCCcv = 0.82−0.93, etc., or external validation parameters Q2F1 = 0.64−0.82, Q2F2 = 0.63−0.82, Q2F3 = 0.65−0.81, R2ext = 0.65−0.83 including RMSEtr < RMSEcv. The present QSAR evaluation successfully identified certain distinct structural features responsible for ALK TK inhibitory potency, such as planar Nitrogen within four bonds from the Nitrogen atom, Fluorine atom within five bonds beside the non-ring Oxygen atom, lipophilic atoms within two bonds from the ring Carbon atoms. Molecular docking, MD simulation, and MMGBSA computation results are in consensus with and complementary to the QSAR evaluations. As a result, the current study assists medicinal chemists in prioritizing compounds for experimental detection of anticancer activity, as well as their optimization towards more potent ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

Synthesis and Structure Insights of Two Novel Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial Candidates Based on (E)-N'-[(Heteroaryl)methylene]adamantane-1-carbohydrazides.

Two new N'-heteroarylidene-1-carbohydrazide derivatives, namely; E-N'-[(pyridine-3-yl)methylidene]adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (1) and E-N'-[(5-nitrothiophen-2-yl)methylidene]adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (2), were produced via condensation of adamantane-1-carbohydrazide with the appropriate heterocyclic aldehyde. Both compounds were chemically and structurally characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, infrared and UV-vis spectroscopies, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The study was complemented with density functional theory calculations (DFT). The results show an asymmetrical charge distribution in both compounds, with the electron density accumulated around the nitrogen and oxygen atoms, leaving the positive charge surrounding the N-H and C-H bonds in the hydrazine group. Consequently, the molecules stack in an antiparallel fashion in the crystalline state, although the contribution of the polar contacts to the stability of the lattice is different for 1 (18%) and 2 (42%). This difference affects the density and symmetry of their crystal structures. Both molecules show intense UV-Vis light absorption in the range 200-350 nm (1) and 200-500 nm (2), brought about by π → π* electronic transitions. The electron density difference maps (EDDM) revealed that during light absorption, the electron density flows within the π-delocalized system, among the pyridyl/thiophene ring, the nitro group, and the N'-methyleneacetohydrazide moiety. Interestingly, compounds 1 and 2 constitute broad-spectrum antibacterial candidates, displaying potent antibacterial activity with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values around 0.5-2.0 µg/mL. They also show weak or moderate antifungal activity against the yeast-like pathogenic fungus Candida albicans.

Synthesis, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Proliferative Activities of Novel 4-(Adamantan-1-yl)-1-arylidene-3-thiosemicarbazides, 4-Arylmethyl N'-(Adamantan-1-yl)piperidine-1-carbothioimidates, and Related Derivatives.

The reaction of 4-(adamantan-1-yl)-3-thiosemicarbazide 3 with various aromatic aldehydes yielded the corresponding thiosemicarbazones 4a-g. 1-Adamantyl isothiocyanate 2 was reacted with 1-methylpiperazine or piperidine to yield the corresponding N-(adamantan-1-yl)carbothioamides 5 and 6, respectively. The latter was reacted with benzyl or substituted benzyl bromides to yield the S-arylmethyl derivatives 7a-c. Attempted cyclization of 1,3-bis(adamantan-1-yl)thiourea 8 with chloroacetic acid via prolonged heating to the corresponding thiazolidin-4-one 9 resulted in desulfurization of 8 to yield its urea analogue 10. The thiazolidin-4-one 9 and its 5-arylidene derivatives 11a,b were obtained via microwave-assisted synthesis. The in vitro antimicrobial activity of the synthesized compounds was evaluated against a panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeast-like pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. Compounds 7a-c displayed marked broad spectrum antibacterial activities (minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), 0.5-32 µg/mL) and compounds 4a and 4g showed good activity against Candida albicans. Nine representative compounds were evaluated for anti-proliferative activity towards three human tumor cell lines. Compounds 7a-c displayed significant generalized anti-proliferative activity against all the tested cell lines with IC50 < 10 µM.

Estrogen Receptor Alpha Binders for Hormone-Dependent Forms of Breast Cancer: e-QSAR and Molecular Docking Supported by X-ray Resolved Structures.

Cancer, a life-disturbing and lethal disease with a high global impact, causes significant economic, social, and health challenges. Breast cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells originating from breast tissues. Hormone-dependent forms of breast cancer, such as those influenced by estrogen, prompt the exploration of estrogen receptors as targets for potential therapeutic interventions. In this study, we conducted e-QSAR molecular docking and molecular dynamics analyses on a diverse set of inhibitors targeting estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α). The e-QSAR model is based on a genetic algorithm combined with multilinear regression analysis. The newly developed model possesses a balance between predictive accuracy and mechanistic insights adhering to the OECD guidelines. The e-QSAR model pointed out that sp2-hybridized carbon and nitrogen atoms are important atoms governing binding profiles. In addition, a specific combination of H-bond donors and acceptors with carbon, nitrogen, and ring sulfur atoms also plays a crucial role. The results are supported by molecular docking, MD simulations, and X-ray-resolved structures. The novel results could be useful for future drug development for ER-α.

QSAR modeling approaches to identify a novel ACE2 inhibitor that selectively bind with the C and N terminals of the ectodomain.

Due to the high rates of drug development failure and the massive expenses associated with drug discovery, repurposing existing drugs has become more popular. As a result, we have used QSAR modelling on a large and varied dataset of 657 compounds in an effort to discover both explicit and subtle structural features requisite for ACE2 inhibitory activity, with the goal of identifying novel hit molecules. The QSAR modelling yielded a statistically robust QSAR model with high predictivity (R2tr=0.84, R2ex=0.79), previously undisclosed features, and novel mechanistic interpretations. The developed QSAR model predicted the ACE2 inhibitory activity (PIC50) of 1615 ZINC FDA compounds. This led to the detection of a PIC50 of 8.604 M for the hit molecule (ZINC000027990463). The hit molecule's docking score is -9.67 kcal/mol (RMSD 1.4). The hit molecule revealed 25 interactions with the residue ASP40, which defines the N and C termini of the ectodomain of ACE2. The HIT molecule conducted more than thirty contacts with water molecules and exhibited polar interaction with the ARG522 residue coupled with the second chloride ion, which is 10.4 nm away from the zinc ion. Both molecular docking and QSAR produced comparable findings. Moreover, MD simulation and MMGBSA studies verified docking analysis. The MD simulation showed that the hit molecule-ACE2 receptor complex is stable for 400 ns, suggesting that repurposed hit molecule 3 is a viable ACE2 inhibitor.

Unveiling dynamics of nitrogen content and selected nitrogen heterocycles in thrombin inhibitors: a ceteris paribus approach.

BACKGROUND: Despite the progress in comprehending molecular design principles and biochemical processes associated with thrombin inhibition, there is a crucial need to optimize efforts and curtail the recurrence of synthesis-testing cycles. Nitrogen and N-heterocycles are key features of many anti-thrombin drugs. Hence, a pragmatic analysis of nitrogen and N-heterocycles in thrombin inhibitors is important throughout the drug discovery pipeline. In the present work, the authors present an analysis with a specific focus on understanding the occurrence and distribution of nitrogen and selected N-heterocycles in the realm of thrombin inhibitors. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A dataset comprising 4359 thrombin inhibitors is used to scrutinize various categories of nitrogen atoms such as ring, non-ring, aromatic, and non-aromatic. In addition, selected aromatic and aliphatic N-heterocycles have been analyzed. RESULTS: The analysis indicates that ~62% of thrombin inhibitors possess five or fewer nitrogen atoms. Substituted N-heterocycles have a high occurrence, like pyrrolidine (23.24%), pyridine (20.56%), piperidine (16.10%), thiazole (9.61%), imidazole (7.36%), etc. in thrombin inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of active thrombin inhibitors contain nitrogen atoms close to 5 and a combination of N-heterocycles like pyrrolidine, pyridine, piperidine, etc. This analysis provides crucial insights to optimize the transformation of lead compounds into potential anti-thrombin inhibitors.

Aloe-inspired eco-friendly synthesis of Ag/ZnO heterostructures: boosting photocatalytic potential.

The current research focuses on the development of Ag-ZnO heterostructures through a "bottom-up" approach involving the assembly and extraction of Aloe barbadensis Miller gel. These heterostructures composed of metals/semiconductor oxide display distinct and notable optical, electrical, magnetic, and chemical properties that are not found in single constituents and also exhibit photocatalytic applications. These synthesized heterostructures were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and UV-visible spectroscopy. The high peak intensity of the Ag/ZnO composite shows the high crystallinity. The presence of Ag-O, Zn-O, and O-H bonding is verified using FTIR analysis. SEM analysis indicated the formation of spherical shapes of Ag/ZnO heterostructures. The Zn, O, and Ag elements are further confirmed by EDX analysis. Ag-ZnO heterostructures exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity and stability against the degradation of tubantin red 8BL dye under visible light irradiation.

A novel approach to assessing the antioxidant and anti-diabetic potential of synthesized calcium carbonate nanoparticles using various extracts of Ailanthus altissima.

Calcium carbonate nanoparticles (CaCO3) have been found to exhibit unique properties that show their potential to be used in various therapies. Green synthesis of CaCO3 has been progressively gaining ac-ceptance due to its cost-effectiveness and energy-efficient nature. In the current study, different extracts of Ailanthus altissima were used to synthesize the calcium carbonate nanoparticles the synthesis and characterization of CCNPs were confirmed by using Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The antioxidant activities (hydrogen peroxide, phosphomolydbenum, and ferric reducing) of calcium carbonate nanoparticles were affirmed by a good range of percentages of inhibition against free radical scavenging. The antidebate assays of CCNPs were observed by in-vitro and in silico approaches in a range at various concentrations while maximum inhibition occurred. In conclusion, the current study depicted that conjugated CaCO3 with A. altissima has a good potential to cure oxidative stress and Type II diabetes and could be used in the future as biogenic nanomedicine for the treatment of other metabolic diseases.

Application of in-silico drug discovery techniques to discover a novel hit for target-specific inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro's revealed allosteric binding with MAO-B receptor: A theoretical study to find a cure for post-covid neurological disorder.

Several studies have revealed that SARS-CoV-2 damages brain function and produces significant neurological disability. The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, may infect the heart, kidneys, and brain. Recent research suggests that monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) may be involved in metabolomics variations in delirium-prone individuals and severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. In light of this situation, we have employed a variety of computational to develop suitable QSAR model using PyDescriptor and genetic algorithm-multilinear regression (GA-MLR) models (R2 = 0.800-793, Q2LOO = 0.734-0.727, and so on) on the data set of 106 molecules whose anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity was empirically determined. QSAR models generated follow OECD standards and are predictive. QSAR model descriptors were also observed in x-ray-resolved structures. After developing a QSAR model, we did a QSAR-based virtual screening on an in-house database of 200 compounds and found a potential hit molecule. The new hit's docking score (-8.208 kcal/mol) and PIC50 (7.85 M) demonstrated a significant affinity for SARS-CoV-2's main protease. Based on post-covid neurodegenerative episodes in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's-like disorders and MAO-B's role in neurodegeneration, the initially disclosed hit for the SARS-CoV-2 main protease was repurposed against the MAO-B receptor using receptor-based molecular docking, which yielded a docking score of -12.0 kcal/mol. This shows that the compound that inhibits SARS-CoV-2's primary protease may bind allosterically to the MAO-B receptor. We then did molecular dynamic simulations and MMGBSA tests to confirm molecular docking analyses and quantify binding free energy. The drug-receptor complex was stable during the 150-ns MD simulation. The first computational effort to show in-silico inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and allosteric interaction of novel inhibitors with MAO-B in post-covid neurodegenerative symptoms and other disorders. The current study seeks a novel compound that inhibits SAR's COV-2 Mpro and perhaps binds MAO-B allosterically. Thus, this study will enable scientists design a new SARS-CoV-2 Mpro that inhibits the MAO-B receptor to treat post-covid neurological illness.

Mechanistic QSAR modeling derived virtual screening, drug repurposing, ADMET and in-vitro evaluation to identify anticancer lead as lysine-specific demethylase 5a inhibitor.

A lysine-specific demethylase is an enzyme that selectively eliminates methyl groups from lysine residues. KDM5A, also known as JARID1A or RBP2, belongs to the KDM5 Jumonji histone demethylase subfamily. To identify novel molecules that interact with the LSD5A receptor, we created a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model. A group of 435 compounds was used in a study of the quantitative relationship between structure and activity to guess the IC50 values for blocking LASD5A. We used a genetic algorithm-multilinear regression-based quantitative structure-activity connection model to forecast the bioactivity (PIC50) of 1615 food and drug administration pharmaceuticals from the zinc database with the goal of repurposing clinically used medications. We used molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulation modelling, and molecular mechanics generalised surface area analysis to investigate the molecule's binding mechanism. A genetic algorithm and multi-linear regression method were used to make six variable-based quantitative structure-activity relationship models that worked well (R2 = 0.8521, Q2LOO = 0.8438, and Q2LMO = 0.8414). ZINC000000538621 was found to be a new hit against LSD5A after a quantitative structure-activity relationship-based virtual screening of 1615 zinc food and drug administration compounds. The docking analysis revealed that the hit molecule 11 in the KDM5A binding pocket adopted a conformation similar to the pdb-6bh1 ligand (docking score: -8.61 kcal/mol). The results from molecular docking and the quantitative structure-activity relationship were complementary and consistent. The most active lead molecule 11, which has shown encouraging results, has good absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties, and its toxicity has been shown to be minimal. In addition, the MTT assay of ZINC000000538621 with MCF-7 cell lines backs up the in silico studies. We used molecular mechanics generalise borne surface area analysis and a 200-ns molecular dynamics simulation to find structural motifs for KDM5A enzyme interactions. Thus, our strategy will likely expand food and drug administration molecule repurposing research to find better anticancer drugs and therapies.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

A Comprehensive Review on Benzofuran Synthesis Featuring Innovative and Catalytic Strategies.

Benzofurans have intrigued both pharmaceutical researchers and chemists owing to the medicinal usage of their derivatives against copious disease-causing agents (i.e., bacteria, viruses, and tumors). These heterocyclic scaffolds are pervasively encountered in a number of natural products and drugs. The ever-increasing utilization of benzofuran derivatives as pharmaceutical agents persuaded the chemists to devise novel and facile methodological approaches to assemble the biologically potent benzofuran nucleus. This review summarizes the current developments regarding the innovative synthetic routes and catalytic strategies to procure the synthesis of benzofuran heterocycles with their corresponding mechanistic details, reported by several research groups during 2021-2023.

Exploring theophylline-1,2,4-triazole tethered N-phenylacetamide derivatives as antimicrobial agents: unraveling mechanisms via structure-activity relationship, in vitro validation, and in silico insights.

Theophylline, a nitrogen-containing heterocycle, serves as a promising focal point for medicinal researchers aiming to create derivatives with diverse pharmacological applications. In this work, we present an improved synthetic method for a range of theophylline-1,2,4-triazole-S-linked N-phenyl acetamides (4a‒g) utilizing ultrasound-assisted synthetic approach. The objective was to assess the effectiveness of synthesized theophylline-1,2,4-triazoles (4a‒g) as inhibitors of HCV serine protease and as antibacterial agents against B. subtilis QB-928 and E. coli AB-274. Theophylline-1,2,4-triazoles were obtained in good to excellent yields (69%-95%) in a shorter time than conventional approach. 4-Chlorophenyl moiety containing theophylline-1,2,4-triazole 4c displayed significantly higher inhibitory activity against HCV serine protease enzyme (IC50 = 0.015 ± 0.25 mg) in comparison to ribavirin (IC50 = 0.165 ± 0.053 mg), but showed excellent binding affinity (-7.55 kcal/mol) with the active site of serine protease, better than compound 4c (-6.90 kcal/mol) as well as indole-based control compound 5 (-7.42 kcal/mol). In terms of percentage inhibition of serine protease, 2-chlorophenyl compound 4b showed the maximum percentage inhibition (86%), more than that of the 3,4-dichlorophenyl compound 4c (76%) and ribavirin (81%). 3,4-Dimethylphenyl-based theophylline-1,2,4-triazole 4g showed the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC = 0.28 ± 0.50 µg/mL) against the B. subtilis bacterial strain as compared to the standard drug penicillin (MIC = 1 ± 1.50 µg/mL). The other 4-methylphenyl theophylline-1,2,4-triazole 4e (MIC = 0.20 ± 0.08 µg/mL) displayed the most potent antibacterial potential against E. coli in comparison to the standard drug penicillin (MIC = 2.4 ± 1.00 µg/mL). Molecular docking studies further helped in an extensive understanding of all of the interactions between compounds and the enzyme active site, and DFT studies were also employed to gain insights into the molecular structure of the synthesized compounds. The results indicated that theophylline-linked triazole derivatives 4b and 4c showed promise as leading contenders in the fight against the HCV virus. Moreover, compounds 4e and 4g demonstrated potential as effective chemotherapeutic agents against E. coli and B. subtilis, respectively. To substantiate these findings, additional in vivo studies and clinical trials are imperative, laying the groundwork for their integration into future drug design and development.

In-silico studies to recognize repurposing therapeutics toward arginase-I inhibitors as a potential onco-immunomodulators.

Rudolf Virchow was the first person to point out the important link between immune function and cancer. He did this by noticing that leukocytes were often found in tumors. Overexpression of arginase 1 (ARG1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) depletes both intracellular and extracellular arginine. TCR signalling is slowed as a result, and the same types of cells produce reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS), which aggravates the situation. Human arginase I is a double-stranded manganese metalloenzyme that helps L-arginine break down into L-ornithine and urea. Thus, a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analysis was performed to unearth the unrecognised structural aspects crucial for arginase-I inhibition. In this work, a balanced QSAR model with good prediction performance and clear mechanistic interpretation was developed using a dataset of 149 molecules encompassing a broad range of structural scaffolds and compositions. The model was made to meet OECD standards, and all of its validation parameters have values that are higher than the minimum requirements (R2 tr = 0.89, Q2 LMO = 0.86, and R2 ex = 0.85). The present QSAR study linked structural factors to arginase-I inhibitory action, including the proximity of lipophilic atoms to the molecule's centre of mass (within 3A), the position of the donor to the ring nitrogen (exactly 3 bonds away), and the surface area ratio. As OAT-1746 and two others are the only arginase-I inhibitors in development at the time, we have performed a QSAR-based virtual screening with 1650 FDA compounds taken from the zinc database. In this screening, 112 potential hit compounds were found to have a PIC50 value of less than 10 nm against the arginase-I receptor. The created QSAR model's application domain was evaluated in relation to the most active hit molecules identified using QSAR-based virtual screening, utilising a training set of 149 compounds and a prediction set of 112 hit molecules. As shown in the Williams plot, the top hit molecule, ZINC000252286875, has a low leverage value of HAT i/i h* = 0.140, placing it towards the boundary of the usable range. Furthermore, one of 112 hit molecules with a docking score of -10.891 kcal/mol (PIC50 = 10.023 M) was isolated from a study of arginase-I using molecular docking. Protonated ZINC000252286875-linked arginase-1 showed 2.9 RMSD, whereas non-protonated had 1.8. RMSD plots illustrate protein stability in protonated and non-protonated ZINC000252286875-bound states. Protonated-ZINC000252286875-bound proteins contain 25 Rg. The non-protonated protein-ligand combination exhibits a 25.2-Rg, indicating compactness. Protonated and non-protonated ZINC000252286875 stabilised protein targets in binding cavities posthumously. Significant root mean square fluctuations (RMSF) were seen in the arginase-1 protein at a small number of residues for a time function of 500 ns in both the protonated and unprotonated states. Protonated and non-protonated ligands interacted with proteins throughout the simulation. ZINC000252286875 bound Lys64, Asp124, Ala171, Arg222, Asp232, and Gly250. Aspartic acid residue 232 exhibited 200% ionic contact. 500-ns simulations-maintained ions. Salt bridges for ZINC000252286875 aided docking. ZINC000252286875 created six ionic bonds with Lys68, Asp117, His126, Ala171, Lys224, and Asp232 residues. Asp117, His126, and Lys224 showed 200% ionic interactions. In protonated and deprotonated states, GbindvdW, GbindLipo, and GbindCoulomb energies played crucial role. Moreover, ZINC000252286875 meets all of the ADMET standards to serve as a drug. As a result, the current analyses were successful in locating a novel and potent hit molecule that inhibits arginase-I effectively at nanomolar concentrations. The results of this investigation can be used to develop brand-new arginase I inhibitors as an alternative immune-modulating cancer therapy.

Scrophularia peyronii Post. from Jordan: Chemical Composition of Essential Oil and Phytochemical Profiling of Crude Extracts and Their In Vitro Antioxidant Activity.

The genus Scrophularia is one of the largest genera belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family. Different members of the genus exhibit an interesting, wide spectrum of bioactivities. Accordingly, the current study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the chemical composition of the essential oil of Scrophularia peyronii Post. from Jordan. Additionally, extracts obtained from the aerial parts with solvents of different polarities were assayed for their phytochemical constituents and in vitro antioxidant activities. The major constituents detected in the essential oil, as revealed by GC/MS analysis, contained mainly Z,Z-farnesyl acetone (11.04%), ß-elemene (6.36%), n-octanal (5.98%), and spathulenol (4.58%). Each of the aqueous methanol (Sp-M) and butanol (Sp-B) extracts contained flavonoids, saponins, anthraquinone, and glycosides. Both extracts were evaluated for their total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and their in vitro antioxidant activity, which were assayed using the DPPH radical scavenging activity and ABTS radical scavenging methods. Additionally, the two extracts were then subjected to LC-ESI-MS/MS for the qualitative determination of their secondary metabolite content, especially in flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The results showed that the Sp-B extract of S. peyronii had the highest contents of both phenolic compounds and flavonoids and showed high radical scavenging activity, as determined by the two assay methods, when compared with the Sp-M extract. The LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis resulted in the detection of 21 compounds, including 8 flavonoids, 6 phenolic acids, 6 iridoids, and 2 acids. Although the majority of compounds were detected in both extracts, it was noticed that scropolioside B, 6'-O-cinnamoylharpagide, isoferulic acid, and 6-O-methylcatapol were only detected in the Sp-M fraction.

Design, Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of 2-(3-BenzoyI-4-Hydroxy-1,1-Dioxido-2H-Benzo[e][1,2]thiazin-2-yI)-N-(2-Bromophenyl) Acetamide as Antidiabetic Agent.

Purpose: The present study is based on screening new and potent synthetic heterocyclic compounds as anti-diabetic drugs using various computational tools, lab experiments, and animal models. Methods: A potent synthetic compound 2-(3-benzoyl-4-hydroxy-1,1-dioxido-2H-benzo[e][1,2]thiazin-2-yl)-1-(2-bromophenyl) acetamide (FA2) was checked against diabetes and screened via enzyme inhibition assays, enzyme kinetics against alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase. Protein-ligand interaction was analyzed via molecular docking and toxicological analysis via ADMET. Experimental animals were used to examine the compound FA2 safety, delivery, and check various biochemical tests related to diabetes like fasting glucose sugar, cholesterol, triglyceride, HbAc1, creatinine, and insulin level. Histography of liver, kidney, and pancreas was also performed. Results: Results showed that FA2 had binding energy of -7.02 Kcal/mol and -6.6 kcal/mol against α-glucosidase (PDB ID: 2ZE0) and α-amylase (PDB ID: 1B2Y), respectively. Moreover, in vitro enzyme inhibition assays and enzyme kinetics against α-glucosidase and α-amylase were performed, and FA2 showed IC50 at 5.17 ± 0.28 µM and 18.82 ± 0.89 µM concentrations against α-glucosidase and α-amylase, respectively. Kinetics studies showed that the FA2 compound impeded α-glucosidase and α-amylase as a non-competitive mode of inhibition with Ki' values -0.320 ± 0.001 and 0.141 ± 0.01, respectively. FA2 was further analyzed on alloxan-induced mice for 21 days. Biochemical tests (fasting glucose sugar, cholesterol, triglyceride, HbAc1, creatinine, and insulin levels) and histological examination of liver and kidney showed that the FA2 compound showed better results than acarbose. Histology of pancreas found to show the maintenance of normal pancreatic acini and Langerhans islets in FA2 treated mice compared to acarbose and nontreated diabetic controls. Conclusion: Investigating anti-diabetic potential of FA2 compound showed that the selected benzothiazine derivative has tremendous importance in reducing dose concentration and side effects.