Biometals最新文献

This study evaluated the effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on the hepatorenal system of rats intoxicated with mercury (HgCl₂). Forty male Wistar rats (± 150 g) were randomised into five cohorts (n = 8) and treated for 28 consecutive days as follows: control, HgCl₂ (20 µg/L) alone, TQ (5 mg/kg) alone, HgCl₂ + TQ1 (20 µg/L + 2.5 mg/kg) and HgCl₂ + TQ2 (20 µg/L + 5 mg/kg). Subsequently, HgCl₂-induced derangement in the rats’ hepatorenal function was evaluated via biochemical, oxidative, inflammatory, apoptosis biomarkers and histopathological alterations. We observed that co-treatment with TQ preserved organosomatic indices in rats deprecated by HgCl₂ treatment alone. TQ reduced hepatorenal biomarkers of toxicity—hepatic transaminases, creatine and urea—in the serum elevated in HgCl₂ alone treated rats. TQ averted HgCl₂-induced depletion of antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, and total sulfhydryl groups. TQ significantly (p < 0.05) lessened oxidative stress in the examined organs, exemplified by decreased reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, lipid peroxidation, and xanthine oxidase exacerbated by HgCl₂ alone treatment. Additionally, TQ enhanced cellular antioxidant response to oxidative stress by increases in thioredoxin, thioredoxin reductase, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 and heme oxygenase-1 in HgCl₂ co-treated animals. Moreover, TQ alleviated HgCl₂-induced inflammation by significantly downregulating myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, and interleukin-10 and assuaged apoptosis by decreasing caspase-3 and caspase-9 activities in the experimental rat hepatorenal system. Additionally, TQ interacted with the binding packets of Keap1 and TBK with low Kd values of 4.63 × 10⁻⁵ M and 1.54 × 10⁻⁴ M, respectively. Taken together, the findings of this study demonstrate the likely protective benefit incumbent on TQ as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic compound conferring protection against chemical-induced hepatorenal toxicity, including HgCl₂ in this instance.

Graphical Abstract

Pd(II)-containing complexes exhibit considerable potential as therapeutic agents against cancer owing to their proficiency in selectively targeting neoplastic cells compared to cisplatin. In this context, we describe the synthesis of square planar palladium complexes of the general formula [Pd(L¹⁻⁸)₂] from imino-amido-based asymmetrical (NN) proligands (HL¹⁻⁸) and characterized based on melting point, CHN analysis, spectroscopic techniques (FT-IR, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR), and ESI–MS. DFT computations are employed to elucidate the characteristics of the frontier orbitals and MEP analysis. In the current investigation, the precursors, proligands, Pd(II) complexes and cisplatin were systematically assessed for their anticancer efficacy against breast carcinoma (BT-474, BT-483, and BT-459) by MTT assay. Among the compounds subjected to evaluation, the complex [Pd(L⁷)₂] demonstrated superior capacity in inhibiting the proliferation of breast cancer cells, exhibiting median inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of 6.10, 9.01, and 7.20 µM than standard cisplatin (IC₅₀ = 18.70, 19.40, 19.30 µM), respectively. Cellular apoptosis assessment of [Pd(L⁵⁻⁸)₂] exhibited characteristic apoptotic phenomena including membrane blebbing and DNA condensation. Furthermore, electronic spectroscopy was used to evaluate the binding modalities of complexes with CT DNA, supported by the in silico docking studies. [Pd(L⁷)₂] exhibited the mixed binding mode with a binding affinity in the range of 10⁴ M⁻¹.

Graphical Abstract

Coordination complexes exhibited interesting potentials in different fields such as medical, industrial, pharmaceutical, and analytical. They possess versatile biological applications in drugs synthesis, extraction of noble metals like silver and gold from their ores and in metals purification. In current project we aim to synthesized and characterized transition metal complexes like Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn using Nitroso-R Salt as a ligand. This study presents a novel approach to develop stable metal complexes using Nitroso R Salt, a ligand comprising nitrosyl, hydroxyl, and sulfonate groups. This study offers a combined analysis of both chemical and functional properties, which was not commonly investigated with NRS, by combining biological screening with thorough structural characterizations (FTIR, CHN, XRD and UV). The complexes were then subjected to various tests to explore their deoxyribose degradation inhibition potential, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. Copper and Zinc Complexes showed good potential 173 and 182% against iron at 100 mM. The highest potential was recorded for Nickel complex potential 2, 7 and 14% against H₂O₂, Fe (II) and in combine form. It was further confirmed respectively by antioxidant DPPH assay. Ligand and complexes showed good inhibitory potential by showing 18.66, 39.32, 38.22, 28.89, 20.71, 19.14 and 28.89% for NRS, Iron, Cobalt, Nickel, Zinc, Copper and Manganese complexes at high concentration of 200uM, respectively. The complexes showed promising antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Nickel complexes demonstrated a strong inhibition against reactive species, but copper and zinc complexes showed a notably high antioxidant capacity. Effective inhibitory zones were found in antimicrobial testing, especially for Fe, Mn, Co, and Cu complexes against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus subtilis. However, further studies are needed to examine the exact mechanisms of action of these discoveries, which point to possible biomedical uses.

Bio deposition of minerals is a prevalent occurrence in the biological realm, facilitated by various organisms such as bacteria, fungi, protists, and plants. Calcium carbonate is one such mineral that precipitates naturally as a consequence of microbial metabolic processes. This study investigates an innovative approach for MICP- mediated heavy metal remediation, carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration by utilizing thermophilic microorganisms isolated from such geographical area which is not yet been subjected to any systematic scientific study. Beyond the well-established urea hydrolysis pathway, this research highlights the contribution of non-ureolytic MICP mechanisms driven by the oxidation of organic compounds within the bacterial extracellular polymeric substances and cell wall components of Bacillus licheniformis. Notably, both strains of Bacillus licheniformis redirect its great potential towards biocalcification yielding 89.36 ± 1.8, 88.21 ± 1.5 mg CaCO₃ cells/ml and 90% efficiency for heavy metal remediation with the formation of nanosized (35.85 nm, 38.58 nm) biominerals. The influence of various parameters, such as temperature, pH, incubation time, CO₂ concentration, and calcium concentration on maximum CaCO₃ biosynthesis was evaluated. FTIR, XRD, and SEM–EDX analyses confirmed characteristic peaks for both calcite and vaterite polymorphs, consistent with these Pb incorporation into the mineral structure, rather than surface adsorption is observed. These comparative findings provide valuable insights for promising bioremediation approach for the sustainable, eco-friendly, energy-efficient immobilization of metal contaminants and bio-based carbonate production for efficient CO₂ sequestration.

Graphical abstract

Flavonoids, especially quercetin, are widely recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and anti-tumor properties, but their clinical application is limited by poor permeability. Different techniques of permeability enhancement of quercetin, i.e., preparation of phytosomes, conjugation with glucose, and interaction of piperine, are reported extensively, but formation of metal complexes is considered more precise and reliable. This review focuses on research conducted on the chelation of quercetin with metals, i.e., copper (II), zinc (II), iron and ruthenium. In-vitro and in-vivo therapeutic activities, biomedical applications of metal/quercetin inclusion complexes and discussions of stability concerns of quercetin alone and its metallic complexes. Conjugation of metals with quercetin augments its potential to the next level. Numerous studies revealed that quercetin/copper (Q/Cu) and quercetin/zinc (Q/Zn) can become efficacious candidates in acute myeloid leukaemia, orthopaedics and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infection.

Graphical abstract

Graphical representation of Q/Zn and Q/Cu complexes and their biomedical applications.

Copper (Cu) is a pervasive element utilized in economic animal production. However, overuse can have toxic effects on animals and threaten public food safety. To gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying Cu-induced nephrotoxicity, an in-depth analysis was conducted on the effects of Cu on the renal endoplasmic reticulum quality control (ERQC) system. In the course of this experiment, one-day-old chicks were fed diets comprising Cu levels (11, 110, 220 and 330 mg/kg) for 49 days. Our findings indicate that an excess of Cu may result in oxidative stress, which may then induce tissue damage within the kidney. Furthermore, the experimental results indicated that elevated Cu levels may disrupt to the ERQC system in chicken kidneys. The mRNA levels of GRP78, GRP94, ATF4, IRE1, and XBP1, as well as the protein levels of GRP78, GRP94, IRE1, XBP1, and CHOP, were markedly elevated in all treatment groups relative to the control group. Conversely, the mRNA and protein levels of eIF2α and ATF6 exhibited a notable decline with the increase in Cu levels. Similarly, RTN3, ATL1, and ATL2 mRNA levels as well as RTN3 and ATL3 protein levels exhibited a notable elevation in conjunction with an appreciable decline in FAM134B and SEC62 mRNA and protein levels, respectively, as Cu levels increased. Furthermore, bioinformatics analyses indicated a correlation between oxidative damage and ERQC markers. The above results suggest that Cu-induced oxidative damage may injure to chicken kidneys via disturbances in the ERQC system.

Trace minerals are essential for the growth, development and total well-being of all living organisms. Although there are various standards regarding the amount of supplementation of minerals, compared with other nutrients like energy, protein, and others; trace minerals are still unexplored, especially in the case of male livestock. These minerals help in improving the growth rate of calves, the utilization of absorbed nutrients, and the immunity of animals thereby preventing metabolic diseases. They also act as growth promoters that can hasten the growth rate of calves and help them reach early puberty. Therefore, the deficiency of these minerals can compromise the growth and development of male calves and impair the fertility of adult bulls. Their physiological importance and role are often underestimated, and their presence in feed in adequate quantities is taken for granted. However, they are essential for maintaining various functions in the body, such as optimising growth, development and reproduction, and fortifying the immune response therefore determining the overall well-being and health status of the animal. The current review highlights specific trace minerals, which include Zn, Cu, and Mn, and their effect on the growth, immunity and reproductive development of males. Artificial insemination is becoming popular in cattle, and this has significantly increased conception rates and per capita milk production. However, due to inadequate management techniques and inadequate feed and trace mineral intakes, India has a very low (30%) AI coverage. Male breeding animals have different needs from lactating and maintenance females. They influence the productivity of a large herd of animals. As the guidelines for trace mineral requirements for breeding animals are not specifically provided, the needs of male livestock are often misinterpreted.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Although iron is one of the essential micronutrients in the brain, its excess exposure and accumulation in the brain substantia nigra and striatum regions may induce critical pathological changes relevant to PD. This study has evaluated neurobehavioral, biochemical, and structural alterations resembling PD-like symptoms induced through a 4-week co-exposure of ferrous sulfate (FeSO₄) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in Wistar rats. Our results revealed motor deficits, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, iron dysregulation, protein aggregation, ferroptosis, and apoptotic cell death. Notably, we observed decreased tyrosine hydroxylase levels and increased α-synuclein accumulation, consistent with PD pathology. The immunohistopathological assessments showed astrocyte activation and iron deposition, supporting their roles in neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, we identified alterations in apoptosis and ferroptosis markers, suggesting dose-related involvement of FeSO₄ in neuronal death in the rat brain. These findings have highlighted the multifaceted mechanisms during the co-exposure of FeSO₄ and LPS-induced neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation relevant to PD. This study emphasizes that therapeutic targeting of these pathological mechanisms may offer a promising therapeutic intervention in PD.

Condensation of 2,3-diaminopyridine with 2,4-dihyrodybenzaldehyde yielded a 4,4’-[(1E,1 ~ E)-(pyridine-2,3-diyl)bis(azanylylidene)]bis(methanylylidene)bis(benzene-1,3-diol) monobasic tridentate Schiff base ligand (HL) with an ONN donor sequence. Elemental analyses, conductivity tests, magnetic susceptibility data, FT-IR, UV–vis spectra, x-ray diffraction, and mass spectrum data of the ligand and its complexes were used for the characterization of the structures. Computational HF/3-21G calculations were performed to optimize their geometrical structures and assess their HOMO–LUMO energy gaps. The low molar conductance of the complexes indicates that they are not electrolytic. From the spectrophotometric and gravimetric analyses, the complexes (2–4) are in the ratio of 1:2, while complexes (1 & 5) (1:1) metal to ligand. 2,3-Diaminopyridine, 2,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, ligand (HL) and its complexes were screened for antibacterial and antifungal activities against some bacterial (Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and fungal isolates (Aspergillus flavus, Alternaria solani, and Candida albicans). The result reveals that 2,4-dihyrodybenzaldehyde has the strongest antibacterial activity among the other compounds followed by Mn(II) complex. The antimicrobial activity increases by increasing the compound concentration. To assess the inhibitory impact of ligand and its complexes on binding sites of B. cereus (PDB ID: 1FEZ), S. epidermidis (PDB ID: 3KP7), E. faecalis (PDB ID: 5V5U) and S. typhi (PDB ID: 5V2W) proteins, molecular modeling has been implemented offer a fresh concept for medication design. Molecular docking studies confirmed strong binding interactions between the metal complexes and bacterial proteins, validating their biological potential. These findings demonstrate the promising antimicrobial properties of Schiff base metal complexes, making them potential candidates for pharmaceutical and medicinal applications.

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of a nanosilica-cysteine composite loaded with arsenic trioxide (SC-As) in combination with cisplatin (CIS), paclitaxel (PTX), and doxorubicin (DOX) for lung/breast cancer treatment. Through comprehensive synthesis, characterization (ATR-FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM, DLS), and cytotoxicity assessments, SC-As demonstrated superior potency with IC₅₀ values as low as 7.29 ± 1.40 µM in lung cancer (A549) and 8.60 ± 1.20 µM in breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines. This study employs a dual-modal approach, combining in silico computational predictions (CompuSyn) with in vitro experiments to evaluate synergistic chemotherapy regimens, ensuring robust validation of therapeutic outcomes. The computational synergy analysis and the experimental validation in lung cancer cell lines revealed synergistic interactions between SC-As and CIS (CI < 1), enabling significant dose reductions (DRI > 1). Conversely, antagonism was observed with PTX and DOX in A549 cells, though H1299 cells exhibited unanticipated synergistic interactions with PTX/DOX. Given that H1299 cells represent a more aggressive and metastatic form of lung cancer, these results suggest that PTX and DOX combinations may have enhanced therapeutic potential in treating highly malignant lung cancer subtypes. These findings underscore the composite’s potential as a targeted delivery system and highlight the necessity of integrating computational predictions with empirical validation to optimize combinatorial efficacy and minimize toxicity, providing a foundation for future in vivo and clinical studies.