Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Enrique Ortega, Francisco J. Ballester, Alba Hernandez-Garcia, Samanta Hernandez-Garcia, M. Alejandra Guerrero-Rubio, Delia Bautista, M. Dolores Santana, Fernando Gandia-Herrero, Jose Ruiz
Summary: This study reported the synthesis and characterization of novel osmium (II) complexes with potential as anticancer drugs, showing effective antiproliferative activity towards ovarian cancer cells and inhibitory effects in tumoral strains in vivo. The mechanism of action involves reduction of proteosynthesis, increase of apoptosis, and regulation of oxidative stress genes, potentially making osmium (II) complexes candidates for novel chemotherapeutic drugs.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY FRONTIERS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Norbert Lihi, Zoltan Balogh, Robert Dioszegi, Attila Forgacs, Krisztian Moldovan, Nora May, Petra Herman, Istvan Fabian, Jozsef Kalmar
Summary: The copper(II) complexes of cyclen and cyclam were covalently immobilized in mesoporous silica aerogels. The modified precursors were characterized using mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. The aerogels were characterized using LV-SEM, N-2-sorption porosimetry, FTIR, EPR, and SANS. The immobilization resulted in enhanced SOD activity and the aerogels have the potential to be used as antioxidant pharmaceutical agents.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Joo-Eun Kim, Hyun-Wook Lee, Won-Jin Kwak
Summary: In this study, 4-carboxy-TEMPO was selected as a representative SODm, and its ability to effectively promote the disproportionation reaction and accelerate the generation of singlet oxygen was chemically verified. It was found that the release of singlet oxygen evolved by the SODm was decreased when using a quencher. This study provides important reference for the development of additives for practical application of LOBs.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Xiaowen Wang, Hong Zhang, Russell Sapio, Jun Yang, Justin Wong, Xin Zhang, Jessie Y. Guo, Sharon Pine, Holly Van Remmen, Hong Li, Eileen White, Chen Liu, Megerditch Kiledjian, Dimitri G. Pestov, X. F. Steven Zheng
Summary: The study reveals a crucial role of nuclear SOD1 in ribosome biogenesis and proliferation in KRAS-driven lung cancer.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Alice Johnson, Linda Iffland-Muhlhaus, Joshua Northcote-Smith, Kuldip Singh, Fabrizio Ortu, Ulf-Peter Apfel, Kogularamanan Suntharalingam
Summary: This study reports a biologically stable copper(II) complex that effectively kills breast cancer cells and breast cancer stem cells, while exhibiting low toxicity towards non-cancerous cells. Mechanistically, the complex induces breast cancer stem cell death by elevating intracellular reactive oxygen species and inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 activity.
DALTON TRANSACTIONS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Josieli Demetrio Siqueira, Sidnei Flores de Pellegrin, Liniquer Andre Fontana, Bernardo Almeida Iglesias, Michele Rorato Sagrillo, Pamella Schramm Oliveira, Aline Rossato, Larissa Da Silva Silveira, Ademir Neves, Otavio Augusto Chaves, Davi Fernando Back
Summary: This article investigated the antioxidant activity of synthesized copper (II) mononuclear complexes, which showed significant superoxide dismutation activity. The C2 complex exhibited the best antioxidant activity with the least DNA damage.
INORGANICA CHIMICA ACTA
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Suffora Akhter, Salman Khursheed, Farukh Arjmand, Sartaj Tabassum
Summary: In this study, bio-compatible water-soluble conjugates of Co(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) were synthesized and characterized. The spectroscopic techniques and crystallography confirmed the structure of the complexes. The DNA binding interaction studies revealed the mode of binding, DNA cleavage, chemical shift changes, EPR parameter alterations, SOD mimetic activity, and cytotoxicity of the complexes. Molecular docking studies further confirmed the electrostatic interaction of the complexes with DNA groove region.
DALTON TRANSACTIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Josieli Demetrio Siqueira, Sidnei Flores de Pellegrin, Liniquer Andre Fontana, Bernardo Almeida Iglesias, Michele Rorato Sagrillo, Pamella Schramm Oliveira, Aline Rossato, Liana da Silva Fernandes, Ademir Neves, Otavio Augusto Chaves, Davi Fernando Back
Summary: This manuscript presents the synthesis, structural analysis, antioxidant evaluation, cytotoxicity, interaction with DNA, and molecular docking modeling of copper(II) complexes derived from aromatic aldehydes and amines containing furyl and thiophene fragments. The study explores the correlation between the structures obtained by X-ray diffraction and the tested activities.
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Ilaria Farella, Raffaella Panza, Manuela Capozza, Nicola Laforgia
Summary: As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact public health, finding a viable therapy to reduce multiorgan damage has become urgent. Antioxidants, particularly lecitinized superoxide dismutase (PC-SOD), show promise in reducing harmful consequences of oxidative stress in severe COVID-19 cases. Clinical trials are needed to further explore the potential of PC-SOD as a therapeutic option.
BIOMEDICINE & PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Janusz Gregolinski, Katarzyna Slepokura, Julia Ktak, Maciej Witwicki
Summary: In this study, a series of hexanuclear chloride and sulfate Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes were successfully synthesized from appropriate metal salts and octadecaaza macrocyclic ligands. The obtained coordination compounds were characterized using various methods, including elemental analysis, spectroscopic methods, magnetic measurements, and X-ray crystallography. The X-ray crystal structures revealed different coordination modes of the metal cations in the obtained coordination compounds. The folding conformation of the macrocyclic ligand depended on the number of metal cations bound within the macrocycle. All Ni(II) and Cu(II) coordination compounds exhibited paramagnetic behavior. The magnetic measurements showed that the magnetic behavior of certain complexes was dominated by the magnetic anisotropy of the metal ion, while others revealed small antiferromagnetic interactions within the metal units. The EPR experiments indicated that the predominant contribution to the orbitals occupied by the unpaired electrons in the ground state originated from d(x2-y2) orbitals.
DALTON TRANSACTIONS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Daila Leite Chaves Bezerra, Priscyla Maria Vieira Mendes, Stefany Rodrigues de Sousa Melo, Loanne Rocha dos Santos, Raisa de Oliveira Santos, Sabas Carlos Vieira, Gilberto Simeone Henriques, Betania de Jesus e Silva de Almendra Freitas, Dilina do Nascimento Marreiro
Summary: Women with breast cancer have lower plasma, ionized, and erythrocyte magnesium concentrations compared to those without breast cancer, with higher urinary excretion and elevated levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. However, the superoxide dismutase enzyme activity remains adequate in both groups.
BIOLOGICAL TRACE ELEMENT RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Oncology
Merce Juliachs, Mireia Pujals, Chiara Bellio, Nathalie Meo-Evoli, Juan M. Duran, Esther Zamora, Mireia Pares, Anna Sunol, Olga Mendez, Alex Sanchez-Pla, Francesc Canals, Cristina Saura, Josep Villanueva
Summary: This study aims to find circulating biomarkers for monitoring the response to cancer therapy. The research found that the release of SOD2 protein during chemotherapy treatment is associated with tumor cell death, and the increase in its circulating levels correlates with treatment response, which can be used for non-invasive monitoring of breast cancer patients.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Li-Qiang Wang, Yeyang Ma, Han-Ye Yuan, Kun Zhao, Mu-Ya Zhang, Qiang Wang, Xi Huang, Wen-Chang Xu, Bin Dai, Jie Chen, Dan Li, Delin Zhang, Zhengzhi Wang, Liangyu Zou, Ping Yin, Cong Liu, Yi Liang
Summary: The authors determined the cryo-EM structure of SOD1 fibrils, providing insights into the conversion of SOD1 during the pathogenesis of ALS.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Paolo Pastorino, Elisabetta Pizzul, Damia Barcelo, Maria Cesarina Abete, Gabriele Magara, Paola Brizio, Rosa Avolio, Marco Bertoli, Alessandro Dondo, Marino Prearo, Antonia Concetta Elia
Summary: This study investigated the oxidative stress ecology in Danube barbel from the Barbucina creek, analyzing the levels of antioxidant biomarkers and trace elements in the fish. Results indicated a significant association between certain trace elements and enzyme activity, suggesting their role as stressors in the aquatic environment. The study provides insights into the biochemical defensive response of fish to environmental disturbances, advancing our understanding of the effects of environmental factors on oxidative stress in aquatic ecosystems.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Robert Dioszegi, Dora Bonczidai-Kelemen, Attila Cs Benyei, Nora May, Istvan Fabian, Norbert Lihi
Summary: Copper(II) complexes of pyridine-based ligands functionalized with alanine and tyrosine moieties were synthesized and characterized. The tyrosine-containing complex exhibited higher copper(II) binding affinity and activity than the alanine-containing complex, possibly due to the presence of the aromatic moiety. The results provide a basis for designing highly efficient copper(II) mimics for medical and practical applications.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marta Martins, Ana Sofia Fernandes, Nuno Saraiva
Summary: Growing evidence suggests a significant connection between Golgi functions and cellular events related to cancer initiation and progression. While protein and lipid modification and trafficking are well-studied aspects of Golgi involvement in cancer, less explored areas such as impact on signal transduction, redox, and ion homeostasis also play a role in cell fate decision-making. This article focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of Golgi proteins on cancer cell phenotype, with an emphasis on redox and ion homeostasis, and discusses potential therapeutic strategies associated with the Golgi in cancer progression.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY & CELL BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Nuno Saraiva, Marisa Nicolai, Marta Martins, Nuno Almeida, Matteo Gusmini, Elisabete Muchagato Mauricio, Maria Paula Duarte, Margarida Goncalves, Andre Rolim Baby, Ana Fernandes, Catarina Rosado
Summary: This study investigates the action of Portuguese propolis extracts on skin cells, revealing their potential for skin repair through protection against oxidative stress.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE
(2022)
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
Genetics & Heredity
Isabel S. Barata, Bruno C. Gomes, Antonio S. Rodrigues, Jose Rueff, Michel Kranendonk, Francisco Esteves
Summary: The altered activity of drug metabolism enzymes (DMEs) is a hallmark of chemotherapy resistance. This study aimed to investigate the role of Phase I DMEs involved in the first stages of acquisition of DOX-resistance in BC cells. Our results pinpoint the potential role of specific CYPs and oxidoreductases involved in the metabolism of drugs, retinoic and arachidonic acids, in the mechanisms of chemo-resistance to DOX and carcinogenesis of BC.
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
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Yan Zhou, Jose Russo, Jose Rueff, Marcelo A. M. Pires, Guilherme Bezerra de Castro
Summary: Population study reveals that Xavante Indians have distinct genetic compositions and extremely low risk of breast cancer, providing new insights for breast cancer research.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(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
Genetics & Heredity
Rui Barata, Marc Fila, Fabienne Dalla-Vale, Roberto Bogarin, Paula Nunes, Jose Ramalho, Jose Rueff, Joaquim Calado
Summary: This study aims to validate the identified variants of Familiar Renal Glucosuria (FRG) according to the ACMG-AMP 2015 criteria. The variants evaluated include 16 novel alleles, all of which are rare or absent from population databases and mostly missense changes. According to the ACMG-AMP standards, only 74% of the variants were classified as likely pathogenic or pathogenic. The lack of related patient descriptions and testing of additional affected family members prevented conclusive determination of pathogenicity for variants classified as variants of unknown significance (VUS), highlighting the importance of family testing and variant reporting. Finally, the cryo-EM structure analysis improved the pathogenicity score by identifying critical/functional protein domains.
Article
Oncology
Rita Adubeiro Lourenco, Miguel Lanca, Octavia Monteiro Gil, Joana Cardoso, Teresa Lourenco, Jose B. Pereira-Leal, Antonio Sebastiao Rodrigues, Jose Rueff, Susana Nunes Silva
Summary: Genetic testing using NGS has led to the identification of various genetic variants, including VUS. Functional assays are necessary to determine the biological effect of these VUS. In this study, a VUS in the BRCA1 gene was found in two women at risk for breast cancer, and functional assays showed that this VUS is likely benign.
MOLECULAR MEDICINE REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Joao Conde, Robert Langer, Jose Rueff
Summary: Since the early 1990s, the combination of genetics and nanomedicine has become a game changer in the medical field, offering promising advancements in treating diseases such as cancer and infectious or genetic diseases. The key to this revolution lies in the evolving world of messenger RNA and its 'cues'.
NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
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
Neurosciences
Bruno Costa Gomes, Nuno Peixinho, Rita Pisco, Marta Gromicho, Ana Catarina Pronto-Laborinho, Jose Rueff, Mamede de Carvalho, Antonio Sebastiao Rodrigues
Summary: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease that causes muscle control loss, muscle atrophy, and death. This study aimed to assess the differential expression of plasma miRNAs in ALS patients and control populations. Although no specific miRNA signature for ALS diagnosis was identified, miR-7-2-3p, miR-26a-1-3p, miR-224-5p, and miR-206 were found to be potential candidates for understanding the pathophysiology of ALS.
MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francisco Esteves, Cristina M. M. Almeida, Sofia Silva, Ines Saldanha, Philippe Urban, Jose Rueff, Denis Pompon, Gilles Truan, Michel Kranendonk
Summary: A unique cytochrome P450 (CYP) oxidoreductase (CPR) is important for maintaining the activities of human microsomal CYPs. The conformation of the CPR protein influences electron transfers and complex formation with CYPs. Mutations in the hinge region and FD domain of CPR can modulate CYP activities and regiospecificity of reactions in a substrate-dependent manner.
Editorial Material
Food Science & Technology
Ana S. Fernandes, Cintia Ferreira-Pego, Joao G. Costa
Meeting Abstract
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Joao Gregorio, Joao Menezes, Ana Sofia Fernandes
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PHARMACY
(2022)
