Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry最新文献

Sulfated glycosaminoglycans (SGAGs), such as heparin, are complex linear polysaccharides attached to core proteins via covalent bonds to form proteoglycans. SGAGs are crucial in assembling extracellular matrix, the regulation of cell signaling and cell behavior, hemostasis, development, and various diseases, including thrombosis, cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, through their binding with diverse proteins. Despite the abundant SGAG-protein interactions provided by nature, the development of small SGAG-like molecules remains underexplored. However, sulfonated penta-galloyl glucose (SPGG) represents a promising, easily synthesized, small-molecule mimetic of SGAGs, capable of harnessing these interactions. This minireview discusses the chemical synthesis and characterization of SPGG, along with its pharmacological effects derived from modulating the SGAG-protein interface.

Pyrazolic chalcone exhibits diverse therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-diabetic properties. Structural activity relationship (SAR) studies play a crucial role in understanding the molecular aspects governing their biological effects, guiding the rational design of derivatives with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. This review provides an overview of pyrazolic chalcone derivatives, emphasizing their synthesis through both conventional and green methods. In comparison, conventional synthesis methods have been widely employed in the past for the production of pyrazolic chalcones, often relying on traditional chemical processes that may involve the use of hazardous reagents and generate significant waste. On the other hand, green synthesis methods, in harmony with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices in drug discovery, offer a more environmentally friendly alternative. Green synthesis typically involves the use of eco-friendly reagents, solvents, and energy-efficient processes, resulting in reduced environmental impact and improved resource efficiency. Overall, pyrazolic chalcone derivatives represent a promising class of compounds with significant potential for therapeutic applications.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and deadly primary brain tumor. The current treatment for GBM includes adjuvant chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ), radiation therapy, and surgical tumor excision. There is still an issue because 50% of patients with GBM who get TMZ have low survival rates due to TMZ resistance. The activation of several DNA repair mechanisms, such as Base Excision Repair (BER), DNA Mismatch Repair (MMR), and O-6- Methylguanine-DNA Methyltransferase (MGMT), is the main mechanism via which TMZ resistance develops. The zinc-finger DNA-binding enzyme poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1), which is activated by binding to DNA breaks, affects the activation of the MGMT, BER, and MMR pathway deficiency, which results in TMZ resistance in GBM. PARP inhibitors have been studied recently as sensitizing medications to increase TMZ potency. The first member of the PARP inhibitor family to be identified was Olaparib. It inhibits PARP1 and PARP2, which causes apoptosis in cancer cells and DNA strand break. Olaparib is currently investigated as a radio- and/or chemo-sensitizer in addition to being used as a single agent because it may increase the cytotoxic effects of other treatments. This review addresses Olaparib and its significance in treating TMZ resistance in GBM.

Analysis of the biochemical differences in the energy metabolism among bi-dimensional (2D) and tri-dimensional (3D) cultured cancer cell models and actual human tumors was undertaken. In 2D cancer cells, the oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) fluxes range is 2.5-19 nmol O2/min/mg cellular protein. Hypoxia drastically decreased OxPhos flux by 2-3 times in 2D models, similar to what occurs in mature multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS), a representative 3D cancer cell model. However, mitochondrial protein contents and enzyme activities were significantly different between both models. Moreover, glycolytic fluxes were also significantly different between 2D and MCTS. The glycolytic flux range in 2D models is 1-34 nmol lactate/min/mg cellular protein, whereas in MCTS the range of glycolysis fluxes is 60-80 nmol lactate/min/mg cellular. In addition, sensitivity to anticancer canonical and metabolic drugs was greater in MCTS than in 2D. Actual solid human tumor samples show lower (1.6-4.5 times) OxPhos fluxes compared to normoxic 2D cancer cell cultures. These observations indicate that tridimensional organization provides a unique microenvironment affecting tumor physiology, which has not been so far faithfully reproduced by the 2D environment. Thus, the analysis of the resemblances and differences among cancer cell models undertaken in the present study raises caution on the interpretation of results derived from 2D cultured cancer cells when they are extended to clinical settings. It also raises awareness about detecting which biological and environmental factors are missing in 2D and 3D cancer cell models to be able to reproduce the actual human tumor behavior.

The B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein family plays a crucial role as a regulator in the process of apoptosis. There is a substantial body of evidence indicating that the upregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins is prevalent in several cancer cell lines and original tumour tissue samples. This phenomenon plays a crucial role in enabling tumour cells to avoid apoptosis, hence facilitating the development of resistant cells against chemotherapy. Therefore, the success rate of chemotherapy for cancer can be enhanced by the down-regulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. Furthermore, the indole structural design is commonly found in a variety of natural substances and biologically active compounds, particularly those that possess anti-cancer properties. Due to its distinctive physicochemical and biological characteristics, it has been highly regarded as a fundamental framework in the development and production of anti-cancer drugs. As a result, a considerable range of indole derivatives, encompassing both naturally occurring and developed compounds, have been identified as potential candidates for the treatment of cancer. Several of these derivatives have advanced to clinical trials, while others are already being used in clinical settings. This emphasizes the significant role of indole in the field of research and development of anti-cancer therapeutics. This study provides an overview of apoptosis and the structural characteristics of Bcl-2 family proteins, and mainly examines the present stage and recent developments in Bcl-2 inhibitors with an indole scaffold embedded in their structure.

Green tea (GT) is rich in Phyto-active compounds such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), epicatechin (EC), catechin, and tannic acid, which exhibit synergistic effects when combined. Preclinical studies demonstrate that GT and its compounds can reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), enhance antioxidant capacity, and alleviate aging-related issues such as memory impairments, cognitive decline, and shortened lifespan. Clinical trials corroborate the efficacy of topical GT formulations in improving skin tone, texture, and elasticity and reducing wrinkles. The present manuscript summarizes the recent update on the anti-aging potential of GT and its possible mechanisms. The literature survey suggested that GT consumption is linked to improved cognition, reduced depression levels, and activation of pathways in model organisms like C. elegans. Additionally, tea polyphenols enhance fibroblast mitophagy, boost hippocampal synaptic plasticity in rodents, and mitigate age-related cognitive decline. Moreover, EGCG exhibits anti-aging properties by reducing TNF-induced MMP-1 expression, suppressing ERK signaling, and inhibiting MEK and Src phosphorylation in human dermal fibroblasts. In the context of skin permeation and deposition, optimized transpersonal formulation (TF) incorporating EGCG and hyaluronic acid (HA) demonstrated significantly increased skin permeation and deposition of EGCG compared to plain EGCG. Furthermore, EGCG protects cardiomyocytes via the PPARγ pathway and combats age-related muscle loss through miRNA-486-5p regulation, AKT activation, and FoxO1a-mediated expression of MuRF1 and Atrogin-1. In conclusion, the regular consumption of GT holds promise for promoting physical and mental health, delaying brain and skin aging, and improving overall health by enhancing total antioxidant capacity.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has emerged as a highly efficient and non-invasive cancer treatment, which is crucial considering the significant global mortality rates associated with cancer. The effectiveness of PDT primarily relies on the quality of the photosensitizers employed. When exposed to appropriate light irradiation, these photosensitizers absorb energy and transition to an excited state, eventually transferring energy to nearby molecules and generating Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), including singlet oxygen [1O2]. The ability to absorb light in visible and nearinfrared wavelengths makes porphyrins and derivatives useful photosensitizers for PDT. Chemically, Porphyrins, composed of tetra-pyrrole structures connected by four methylene groups, represent the typical photosensitizers. The limited water solubility and bio-stability of porphyrin photosensitizers and their non-specific tumor-targeting properties hinder PDT effectiveness and clinical applications. Therefore, a wide range of modification and functionalization techniques have been used to maximize PDT efficiency and develop multidimensional porphyrin-based functional materials. Recent progress in porphyrin-based functional materials has been investigated in this review paper, focusing on two main aspects including the development of porphyrinic amphiphiles that improve water solubility and biocompatibility, and the design of porphyrin-based polymers, including block copolymers with covalent bonds and supramolecular polymers with noncovalent bonds, which provide versatile platforms for PDT applications. The development of porphyrin-based functional materials will allow researchers to significantly expand PDT applications for cancer therapy by opening up new opportunities. With these innovations, porphyrins will overcome their limitations and push PDT to the forefront of cancer treatment options.

Cuproptosis, An Emerging Concept In The Field Of Diabetes Research, Presents A Novel And Promising Perspective For The Effective Management Of Diabetes Mellitus And Its Associated Complications. Diabetes, Characterized By Chronic Hyperglycemia, Poses A Substantial Global Health Burden, With An Increasing Prevalence Worldwide. Despite Significant Progress In Our Understanding Of This Complex Metabolic Disorder, Optimal Therapeutic Strategies Still Remain Elusive. The Advent Of Cuproptosis, A Term Coined To Describe Copper-Induced Cellular Cell Death And Its Pivotal Role In Diabetes Pathogenesis, Opens New Avenues For Innovative Interventions. Copper, An Indispensable Trace Element, Plays A Pivotal Role In A Myriad Of Vital Biological Processes, Encompassing Energy Production, Bolstering Antioxidant Defenses, And Altered Cellular Signaling. However, In The Context Of Diabetes, This Copper Homeostasis Is Perturbed, Driven By A Combination Of Genetic Predisposition, Dietary Patterns, And Environmental Factors. Excessive Copper Levels Act As Catalysts For Oxidative Stress, Sparking Intricate Intracellular Signaling Cascades That Further Exacerbate Metabolic Dysfunction. In This Review, We Aim To Explore The Interrelationship Between Copper And Diabetes Comprehensively, Shedding Light On The Intricate Mechanisms Underpinning Cuproptosis. By Unraveling The Roles Of Copper Transporters, Copper-Dependent Enzymes, And Cuproptotic Signaling Pathways, We Seek To Elucidate Potential Therapeutic Strategies That Harness The Power Of Copper Modulation In Diabetes Management. This Insight Sets The Stage For A Targeted Approach To Challenge The Complex Hurdles Posed By Diabetes, Potentially Transforming Our Therapeutic Strategies In The Ongoing Fight Against This Pervasive Global Health Concern.

This analytical mini-review focuses on the effects of trace elements, which includes Cu, Mn, Zn, and Se, as well as some rarer microelements, on the regulation of oxidative stress in the body and of certain diseases associated with it. Synergism and competition between certain microelements have been considered a hot topic in the applied molecular pharmacology of these specific bio-effects. Some ideas for further possible directions of research are expressed. Noteworthy, metal coordinating catalytical sites of certain enzymes function as pharmacophore-forming and connecting nanostructures. These sites can be regarded as targets for various effectors, making them pharmacologically significant contributors to biocatalysis.

Taxol is a compound with a rigid, tetracyclic structure of diterpene, which is characterized by significant antitumor properties. Firstly, Taxol has been isolated by extraction from the bark of the yew tree. However, the low level of availability obligated the researchers' world to uncover alternative techniques of Taxol obtainment. In the last few years, many synthetic and semi-synthetic methodologies have been elaborated. Nowadays, many novel biotechnological approaches using cell suspension cultures and biotransformation are initiated and expanded. These processes are very beneficial. The reason is that both the final product and the yield of the process have high levels. Such approaches are very distinctive and they help achieve significant quantities of natural compounds, which often exist in small amounts in plants. Moreover, a very important aspect of Taxol development is nanotechnology. The use of this method has many benefits - the retention time is protracted and the concentration of a drug in tumor tissue is raised. This is due to the specific targeting of nanomolecules. What is essential for patients is that systemic side effects are reduced and the healthy biological systems and tissues do not damage. Also, the paper presents new directions with the application of Artificial Intelligence methods. Every year, new concepts are created for obtaining Taxol and developing methods to significantly increase its bioavailability.