Review
Chemistry, Applied
Haining Zhang, Jinzhao Song, Sixin Wang, Qingxin Song, Hui Guo, Ziyong Li
Summary: Considering the harmful effects of heavy metal ions on the environment and human health, significant efforts have been made to develop new chemosensors for the detection of lead, cadmium, and mercury ions. Recently, chemosensors based on various macrocyclic segments have gained attention and have been extensively studied for their ability to sense heavy metals by controlling their coordination environments. This review discusses the recent advances in macrocycle-based chemosensors for lead, cadmium, and mercury ions, which are categorized into six categories based on their structural characteristics.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Denisse Diaz, Francisco Ujueta, Gisell Mansur, Gervasio A. Lamas, Ana Navas-Acien, Ivan A. Arenas
Summary: Cadmium is recognized as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease, with experimental and epidemiological studies showing an association with endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Although there is no direct evidence, findings from clinical trials suggest that removing cadmium from the body may improve cardiovascular outcomes. Further translational toxicology studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms of cadmium toxicity and its promotion of atherosclerosis.
CURRENT ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jianqi Zhao, Ruohan Xie, Jiayu Lin, Lingling Xu, Xiaoyu Gao, Xianyong Lin, Shengke Tian, Lingli Lu
Summary: This study functionally characterized SaMT3 in the Cd/Zn hyperaccumulator S. alfredii. The C- and N-terminal regions of SaMT3 exhibited differential functional roles in Cd adaptation, with the C-terminal region involved in Cd sensing and binding and the N-terminal region responsible for ROS scavenging. Overexpression of SaMT3 increased Cd tolerance in transgenic plants, while knockout of SaMT3 led to decreased Cd concentrations and increased ROS levels. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of SaMT3 in Cd hyperaccumulation and the molecular mechanisms underlying Cd detoxification in plants.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tingting Zhu, Lingyu Li, Qixin Duan, Xiuling Liu, Min Chen
Summary: Heavy metal pollution, especially cadmium, negatively affects plant growth and development by inhibiting processes such as seed germination, photosynthesis, and antioxidation. Extensive research has been conducted on the toxic effects of Cd2+ on plants and the mechanisms of Cd(2+) tolerance.
PLANT SIGNALING & BEHAVIOR
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Dimakatso R. Mokoena, Blassan P. George, Heidi Abrahamse
Summary: Breast cancer, originating from ducts or lobules, ranks as the second most common cancer globally. Risk factors include age, mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, and dense breast tissue. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown promise as a less invasive treatment option with reduced harm to normal cells and tissues.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Patricia Jaaks, Elizabeth A. Coker, Daniel J. Vis, Olivia Edwards, Emma F. Carpenter, Simonetta M. Leto, Lisa Dwane, Francesco Sassi, Howard Lightfoot, Syd Barthorpe, Dieudonne van der Meer, Wanjuan Yang, Alexandra Beck, Tatiana Mironenko, Caitlin Hall, James Hall, Iman Mali, Laura Richardson, Charlotte Tolley, James Morris, Frances Thomas, Ermira Lleshi, Nanne Aben, Cyril H. Benes, Andrea Bertotti, Livio Trusolino, Lodewyk Wessels, Mathew J. Garnett
Summary: Combinations of anti-cancer drugs can overcome resistance and provide new treatments. This study evaluates 2,025 clinically relevant two-drug combinations and finds that synergy between drugs is rare and context-dependent. The findings can guide the development of combination treatments for specific cancer subtypes.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xiuguo Sun, Wengen Ling, Dongdong Wei, Zhikang Li, Zhe Liu, Na Zhou, Huayan Si, Taolin Zhao, Gang Yu, Yanting Li
Summary: This study firstly reports the effect of sodium formate mediated double regulation on the TiO2 photocatalytic reduction of cadmium. The successful reduction of Cd2+ to metal elements by the sodium formate-P25 system was confirmed using multiple characterization methods. The attachment of metal elements to the surface of the composite photocatalyst was directly observed by SEM. The addition of sodium formate significantly improved the removal efficiency of Cd2+, with a maximum removal rate of 94.8% within 10 min. Further experiments revealed the mechanism and activity of the combined catalysis of sodium formate and photocatalysis and the role of the composite photocatalyst in photocatalytic activity.
JOURNAL OF ALLOYS AND COMPOUNDS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Haya Alyasi, Hamish Mackey, Gordon McKay
Summary: This study developed a novel model to predict the adsorption of cadmium ions onto nanochitosan, which involves two mechanisms: chelation and surface complexation. The equilibrium process is determined to have two distinct regions, each corresponding to a different adsorption mechanism.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Daniel Ziental, Dariusz T. Mlynarczyk, Beata Czarczynska-Goslinska, Konrad Lewandowski, Lukasz Sobotta
Summary: Superficial and systemic fungal infections pose significant challenges to modern healthcare due to increasing resistance to antifungals and rising therapy costs. The search for alternative treatments, such as Photodynamic Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (PACT), is intensifying, with promising results in utilizing compounds like phenothiazines, porphyrins, and chlorins. Studies suggest that fungi do not develop specific defense mechanisms against PACT, making it a potential therapeutic alternative when combined with nanoparticles and traditional antifungal therapy.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yufan Zhang, Yifan Zhao, Yue Zhai, Jinyi He, Mengke Tang, Yalin Liu, Ye Yao, Peng Xue, Miao He, Qian Li, Yanyi Xu, Weidong Qu, Yubin Zhang
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the impact of cadmium (Cd) on natural killer (NK) cells. It was found that Cd treatment impaired the differentiation of NK progenitors in the bone marrow but activated the JAK3/STAT5 signaling to drive the proliferation of mature NK (mNK) cells. Cd treatment bidirectionally regulated the cytotoxicity of mNK cells to tumor cells through the modulation of Fas expression and granzyme B expression. Similar effects were observed in human mNK cells. This research extends our understanding of the immunotoxicity of Cd.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Sruti Chattopadhyay, Neha Mehrotra, Swati Jain, Harpal Singh
Summary: This study presents the preparation of highly fluorescent C-dots for specific metal ion detection and removal, showing low cellular toxicity at high concentrations. These C-dots demonstrate good fluorescence properties and biocompatibility, suitable for cell imaging applications.
MICROCHEMICAL JOURNAL
(2021)
Review
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Michael Morales, Xiang Xue
Summary: Iron is crucial for cellular functions and human health, but excess iron can lead to oxidative DNA damage and cancer. Cancer cells are more dependent on iron than normal cells, making targeting iron metabolism in cancer cells an emerging and powerful therapeutic strategy.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zhan-Ling Liang, Heng Wee Tan, Jia-Yi Wu, Xu-Li Chen, Xiu-Yun Wang, Yan-Ming Xu, Andy T. Y. Lau
Summary: ZIP8 is a crucial transmembrane protein responsible for transporting essential micronutrients and heavy metals, including selenium. The relationship between ZIP8 mutations, cellular selenium transportation, and human diseases has not been fully explored. Research shows that ZIP8 plays a role in modulating cellular selenium levels and may have potential implications for disease prevention and therapy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Spectroscopy
Brian Musikavanhu, Yujie Zhang, Dongwei Zhu, Zhaoli Xue, Rui Yuan, Shengjun Wang, Long Zhao
Summary: A one-step synthesis of a thiophene substituted naphthyl hydrazone derivative NHT was developed for the detection of trivalent chromium. The probe exhibited a turn-off response and formed a 1:1 NHT-Cr3+ complex upon exposure to Cr3+. NHT showed a fast response rate and low detection limit, with excellent selectivity and affinity towards Cr3+. Bioimaging experiments in PC3 cells demonstrated the potential real-life application of this probe in detecting Cr3+.
SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA PART A-MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY
(2022)
Article
Urology & Nephrology
Camilo G. Sotomayor, Flavia Giubergia, Dion Groothof, Catterina Ferreccio, Ilja M. Nolte, Gerjan J. Navis, Antonio W. Gomes-Neto, Daan Kremer, Tim J. Knobbe, Michele F. Eisenga, Ramon Rodrigo, Daan J. Touw, Stephan J. L. Bakker
Summary: This study found that pretransplant plasma lead concentrations were associated with an increased risk of late kidney allograft failure, which decreased after transplant. These findings suggest the need for further studies to evaluate whether interventions to reduce plasma lead concentration may represent novel risk-management strategies to decrease the rate of kidney allograft failure.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF KIDNEY DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Sergio P. Camoes, Ozlem Bulut, Volkan Yazar, Maria M. Gaspar, Sandra Simoes, Rita Ferreira, Rui Vitorino, Jorge M. Santos, Ihsan Gursel, Joana P. Miranda
Summary: MSC-Exo produced in 3D cultures showed enhanced regenerative potential for skin healing by promoting skin regeneration and modulating the systemic levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
JOURNAL OF ADVANCED RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Biology
Madalena Cipriano, Katharina Schluender, Christopher Probst, Kirstin Linke, Martin Weiss, Mona Julia Fischer, Lena Mesch, Kevin Achberger, Stefan Liebau, Marina Mesquida, Valeria Nicolini, Anneliese Schneider, Anna Maria Giusti, Stefan Kustermann, Peter Loskill
Summary: Researchers have developed a human immunocompetent Choroid-on-Chip model that mimics immune responses in the presence of immune cells, offering a potential tool for studying the interplay between the immune system and oncology. This model may provide insights into eye disorders causing visual impairment and serve as a platform for evaluating drug efficacy and toxicity mechanisms.
COMMUNICATIONS BIOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tanvi Shroff, Kehinde Aina, Christian Maass, Madalena Cipriano, Joeri Lambrecht, Frank Tacke, Alexander Mosig, Peter Loskill
Summary: Non-clinical models for studying metabolism have limitations in terms of species translatability and predictability. Organ-on-chip systems, specifically multi-organ chips, provide a species-specific platform for studying metabolism and can be integrated with in silico models to enhance predictive power. This technology also has potential for translational applications and personalized medicine.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Julia Rogal, Julia Roosz, Claudia Teufel, Madalena Cipriano, Raylin Xu, Wiebke Eisler, Martin Weiss, Katja Schenke-Layland, Peter Loskill
Summary: Obesity and associated diseases have become epidemic globally. Researchers have developed a microphysiological in vitro model of human white adipose tissue, leveraging Organ-on-Chip technology, which can recapitulate crucial adipose tissue functions and offers advantages such as low inter-donor variability and controllability, making it a valuable tool for metabolism research and personalized medicine applications.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Barbara Silva, Joana Saraiva Rodrigues, Ana Sofia Almeida, Ana Rita Lima, Carla Fernandes, Paula Guedes de Pinho, Joana Paiva Miranda, Fernando Remiao
Summary: This study assessed the hepatic cytotoxicity and metabolic profile of pentedrone and methylone enantiomers for the first time, revealing enantioselectivity in their metabolic processes.
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Rita B. Soares, Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira, Nuno G. Oliveira
Summary: Kava, a plant widely consumed in the South Pacific Islands, has psychoactive properties and is used as a natural anxiolytic in Western countries. It has also been used to treat symptoms associated with various conditions. However, kava has been associated with liver injury and other toxic effects, possibly due to its interference in the metabolism of other substances. Despite this, kava has shown potential as a chemotherapeutic/chemopreventive agent against cancer, displaying anti-proliferative effects in in vitro and in vivo studies.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Iris Guerreiro, Bojana Vidovic, Joao G. Costa, Marta Martins, Sandra Ferreira, Nuno G. Oliveira, Nuno Saraiva, Ana S. Fernandes
Summary: This study evaluated the impact of erucin on renal cancer cell biology and found that erucin can decrease cell viability, induce cell cycle arrest, alter cell morphology and adhesion, as well as affect microtubule polymerization. These results provide new insights into dietary approaches for renal cancer chemoprevention.
MOLECULAR NUTRITION & FOOD RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Alessia Moruzzi, Tanvi Shroff, Silke Keller, Peter Loskill, Madalena Cipriano
Summary: OoC technology combines biology and engineering principles to create new in vitro models, requiring interdisciplinary collaboration. A questionnaire was used to evaluate training aspects and identify stakeholders, professional levels, and specific skillsets. The respondents agreed on the need to train the next generation of OoC researchers early and in interdisciplinary subjects throughout their careers.
EDUCATION SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maryam Malmir, Katelene Lima, Sergio Povoas Camoes, Vera Manageiro, Maria Paula Duarte, Joana Paiva Miranda, Rita Serrano, Isabel Moreira da Silva, Beatriz Silva Lima, Manuela Canica, Olga Silva
Summary: The study aimed to determine the phytochemical profile and evaluate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and toxicity of Asphodelus bento-rainhae subsp. bento-rainhae and Asphodelus macrocarpus subsp. macrocarpus. Twelve known active compounds were identified in both medicinal plants, with terpenoids and condensed tannins being the major secondary metabolites. The ethyl ether fractions showed the highest antibacterial activity, while the ethyl acetate fractions exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The study concluded that these plants are valuable and safe as herbal medicines.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Maryam Malmir, Katelene Lima, Sergio Povoas Camoes, Vera Manageiro, Maria Paula Duarte, Joana Paiva Miranda, Rita Serrano, Isabel Moreira da Silva, Beatriz Silva Lima, Manuela Canica, Olga Silva
Summary: This study evaluated the in vitro antimicrobial activity of hydroethanolic extracts from two medicinal plants, Asphodelus bento-rainhae and Asphodelus macrocarpus, against multidrug-resistant skin-related pathogens. The study identified the diethyl ether fractions as the most active against Gram-positive microorganisms, and anthracene derivatives as the main constituents. These compounds showed high antimicrobial activity, particularly against Staphylococcus epidermidis. Importantly, the extracts showed no cytotoxicity against HepG2 and HaCaT cells, and no genotoxicity with and without metabolic activation.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Joana Moura, Cintia Ferreira-Pego, Ana Sofia Fernandes
Summary: This study investigated the preferences, safety perceptions, and usage practices of Portuguese consumers regarding Food Contact Materials (FCM) used for cooking and food storage. Results showed that safety was the most important factor when choosing cookware materials, although the criteria varied with age. Most respondents recognized the risk of food contamination through cookware. Stainless steel and glass were considered the safest materials for cooking, and glass and plastic were the most commonly used for food storage. Older individuals had better maintenance practices and knowledge about handling cookware. There was a general lack of knowledge about FCM symbols. This study highlights the need to provide reliable information to the public regarding cookware, promoting health literacy and reducing exposure to food contact chemicals.
FOOD AND CHEMICAL TOXICOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Pedro M. G. Silva, Pedro F. F. Pinheiro, Sergio P. Camoes, Ana P. C. Ribeiro, Luisa M. D. R. S. Martins, Joana P. G. Miranda, Goncalo C. Justino
Summary: The growing worldwide cancer incidence and multidrug cancer resistance require the identification of new leads for cancer management. This study investigated two C-scorpionate complexes as potential scaffolds for anticancer drug development, with one complex showing significant cytotoxicity and cell migration inhibitory activity against HCT116 cells.
Editorial Material
Food Science & Technology
Ana S. Fernandes, Cintia Ferreira-Pego, Joao G. Costa
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Katelene Lima, Maryam Malmir, Sergio P. Camoes, Kamrul Hasan, Samuel Gomes, Isabel Moreira da Silva, Maria Eduardo Figueira, Joana P. Miranda, Rita Serrano, Maria Paula Duarte, Olga Silva
Summary: This study focused on the botanical and chemical identification of Campylanthus glaber Benth., a medicinal plant used in traditional medicine in Cabo Verde. The study assessed its antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity activities. The results suggest that this medicinal plant may be safe and potentially used as an herbal drug raw material for pharmaceutical purposes.
Meeting Abstract
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Joao Gregorio, Joao Menezes, Ana Sofia Fernandes
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PHARMACY
(2022)