Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Thanh-Hoang Nguyen-Vo, Quang H. Trinh, Loc Nguyen, Trang T. T. Do, Matthew Chin Heng Chua, Binh P. Nguyen
Summary: This study proposes a novel molecular encoding scheme for predicting antimalarial natural products. By training and comparing machine learning algorithms, the results show that this encoding scheme is highly accurate and effective, and can be used in other biomedical applications.
JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL INFORMATION AND MODELING
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Catherine Nuwagira, Emanuel L. Peter, Clement Olusoji Ajayi, John Adriko, Grace-Rugunda Kagoro, Eunice Apio Olet, Patrick Engeu Ogwang, Casim Umba Tolo
Summary: The study aimed to investigate the effect of different developmental stages of S. pinnata on the antimalarial activity in mice, with results showing that extracts from the flowering stage had the best parasitemia suppression. Extracts from all developmental stages demonstrated a dose-dependent suppression of malarial parasites with an LD50 of 2157 mg/kg.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Pariya Pirooz, Rayhaneh Amooaghaie, Alimohammad Ahadi, Fariba Sharififar
Summary: The study demonstrated that under copper stress, silicon and nitric oxide help enhance the resistance of Salvia officinalis leaves and roots, by reducing copper accumulation, increasing proline content, enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, and mitigating lipid peroxidation and H2O2 accumulation.
PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Nidia del Carmen Quintal-Bojorquez, Leydi Maribel Carrillo-Cocom, Alan Javier Hernandez-Alvarez, Maira Rubi Segura-Campos
Summary: The study found that protein fractions from Salvia hispanica have anticancer activity, with the <1 kDa protein fraction showing the most significant effect on cancer cell viability at 1 mg/ml. The peptide KLKKNL with potential anticancer activity was selected, indicating the potential of protein fractions as an adjuvant option for cancer treatment.
JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Kirill Kirsanov, Timur Fetisov, Elena Antoshina, Lubov Trukhanova, Tatiana Gor'kova, Olga Vlasova, Irina Khitrovo, Ekaterina Lesovaya, Nataliya Kulbachevskaya, Tatiana Shcherbakova, Gennady Belitsky, Marianna Yakubovskaya, Vytas Svedas, Dmitry Nilov
Summary: 7-Methylguanine competitively inhibits DNA repair enzyme PARP and RNA-modifying enzyme TGT, making it a potential anticancer drug candidate. A comprehensive study showed that it does not induce mutations or chromosomal abnormalities and has no adverse effects in mice. Preliminary data suggests its anticancer activity, making it a promising new component of chemotherapy.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Zi-wei Zeng, Di Chen, Lei Chen, Bin He, Yan Li
Summary: Artemisinin, an important ingredient of artemisia annua, has been traditionally used for malaria therapy in China for hundreds of years. Recent research has also revealed the anticancer properties of artemisinin and its derivatives. This review summarizes the development of artemisinin and its derivatives as anticancer agents, including natural and synthetic monomers as well as their dimers. It also discusses the mechanisms of action and clinical trials of artemisinin-based drugs for cancer treatment, providing valuable insights for the development of novel anticancer drugs.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Mohit K. Tiwari, Paolo Coghi, Prakhar Agrawal, Dharmendra K. Yadav, Li Jun Yang, Qiu Congling, Dinkar Sahal, Vincent Kam Wai Wong, Sandeep Chaudhary
Summary: A series of lipophilic, halogenated-arylvinyl-1,2,4-trioxanes were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro anti-plasmodial activity, with ten analogues showing potent activity and selective potential against Plasmodium cells. The most active compound, arylvinyl-1,2,4-trioxane 8f(2), exhibited significant cytotoxic potential in comparison to standard drugs against lung cancer cell lines. Furthermore, in-silico docking studies demonstrated strong virtual interaction of the potent halogenated 1,2,4-trioxanes with the epidermal growth factor receptor.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Kristina Tolic Cop, Dragana Mutavdzic Pavlovic, Tatjana Gazivoda Kraljevic
Summary: Photocatalysis is effective in removing small molecules like anticancer drugs, with faster kinetic rates found at pH 5 and lower drug concentrations. However, the efficiency of photocatalysis can be reduced by the addition of inorganic salts and organic compounds. The degradation mechanism of the drugs involves hydroxyl radicals and singlet oxygen, with potential toxicity of newly formed products needing further study.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Tim Van de Walle, Lore Cools, Sven Mangelinckx, Matthias D'hooghe
Summary: Quinoline, a privileged scaffold in medicinal chemistry, plays a central role in antimalarial and anticancer research, but established quinoline-containing antimalarial drugs are facing widespread resistance. On the other hand, there is a growing interest in quinoline compounds as potential anticancer agents.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Maria Francesca Bozzini, Ylenia Pieracci, Roberta Ascrizzi, Basma Najar, Marco D'Antraccoli, Luca Ciampi, Lorenzo Peruzzi, Barbara Turchi, Francesca Pedonese, Alice Alleva, Guido Flamini, Filippo Fratini
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial effectiveness and chemical composition of Salvia essential oils (EOs) on Listeria monocytogenes. The results showed that S. chamaedryoides EO exhibited the best inhibitory activity and may be used as a natural preservative in the food industry.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yuefang Hu, Liangliang Zhang, Shengyu Chen, Li Hou, Shulin Zhao, Yong Huang, Hong Liang
Summary: This study proposes a strategy for tumor microenvironment-induced cancer imaging/drug release and synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy. The use of a nanoprobe complex allows for cancer tissue imaging, targeted drug release, chemotherapy, and photothermal therapy simultaneously.
NANOSCALE ADVANCES
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Alba Cano-Vicent, Andrea Martinez-Agut, Alberto Tunon-Molina, Hamid Bakshi, Roser Sabater i Serra, Iman M. Alfagih, Murtaza M. Tambuwala, Angel Serrano-Aroca
Summary: Alginate crosslinked with calcium cations is a promising hydrogel for biomedical applications due to its non-toxicity, suitable mechanical properties, and insolubility in water. This study explored the biological properties of alginate films crosslinked with Ca2+ and Co2+ ions, including antiviral capacity, antibacterial properties, and anticancer activity. The results showed that the hydrogel exhibited biocompatibility in vivo and in vitro, as well as antibacterial and antiviral activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and a surrogate of SARSCoV-2. Additionally, the hydrogel showed anticancer properties against melanoma and colon cancer cells.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Esraa M. Othman, Eman A. Fayed, Ebtehal M. Husseiny, Hamada S. Abulkhair
Summary: A new set of 1,2,3-triazoles was designed and synthesized to evaluate their potential as anticancer drugs. Three compounds showed mild to moderate growth inhibition activity against lung, renal, and prostate cancerous cells.
NEW JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ahmed A. A. Al Otaibi, Sinad L. L. Alshammari, Abdulmohsen Khalaf Dhahi Alsukaibi, Azfar Jamal, Saravanan Rajendrasozhan, Khalaf M. M. Alenezi, Afzal Hussain, Imran Khan, Md. Mushtaque, Ashanul Haque
Summary: Four new hybrid compounds (H1-H4) containing pyrazole (S1 and S2) and chalcone (P1 and P2) fragments were synthesized and characterized. The compounds were tested for their ability to inhibit the proliferation of human lung (A549) and colon (Caco-2) cancer cell lines, as well as their toxicity against normal cells. In silico studies were conducted to predict the binding modes, protein stability, drug-likeness, and toxicity of the compounds. The results showed dose-dependent cell-specific cytotoxicity and favorable binding affinity, drug-likeness properties, and low toxicity profiles.
JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR STRUCTURE & DYNAMICS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Kejun Chen, Tarik Hafdhi Abdtawfeeq, Iman K. Kadhim, Mohammed Abed Jawad, Muna Jumaah Hammad, Naseer Mihdi Mohammed, Yassine Riyahi, Salema K. Hadrawi, Jupinder Kaur, Alireza Soltani
Summary: In this study, the adsorption process and anti-cancer activity of functionalized magnesium oxide nanotube (MgONT) adsorbed with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) were evaluated using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations. The results showed that 5-FU preferentially chemisorbs to oxygen and hydrogen atoms on Mg and O atoms at the end of the tube. The adsorption energies were approximately -2.01 eV (vacuum), -1.72 eV (water), and -1.84 eV (toluene).
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR LIQUIDS
(2023)
Article
Oncology
Melanie C. Pereira, Raushaan Mohammed, Willem A. L. Van Otterlo, Charles B. De Koning, Hajierah Davids
ANTICANCER RESEARCH
(2020)
Article
Chemistry, Organic
Vuyisa Mzozoyana, Fanie R. van Heerden
SYNTHETIC COMMUNICATIONS
(2020)
Article
Crystallography
Buyiswa G. Hlangothi, Lungelwa Mahanjana, Eric C. Hosten, Fanie R. van Heerden, Maryna van de Venter
ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KRISTALLOGRAPHIE-NEW CRYSTAL STRUCTURES
(2020)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Abdolkarim Farrokhzadeh, Farideh Badichi Akher, Fisayo A. Olotu, Fanie R. Van Heerden
Summary: Chirality in drug design plays a crucial role in enhancing the selectivity and efficacy of therapeutic molecules. Computational approaches were used to explore the binding modes of (R,R) and (R,S)-HEC72702 on hepatitis B virus capsid, revealing that chirality change affects the inhibitory affinity of (R,R)-HEC72702. Analysis of energy decomposition highlighted the importance of van der Waals interactions in the binding process.
CHEMICAL BIOLOGY & DRUG DESIGN
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Bamigboye J. Taiwo, Temidayo D. Popoola, Fanie R. van Heerden, Amos A. Fatokun
Summary: The research found compounds in okra that exhibited mild toxicity to cancer cells while also possessing antioxidant properties. These findings provide insight into the traditional use of okra for cancer, cardiovascular complications, and diabetes treatment, and suggest it as a potential source of novel therapeutics.
CHEMISTRY & BIODIVERSITY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Sushil K. Chaudhary, Maxleene Sandasi, Felix Makolo, Fanie R. van Heerden, Alvaro M. Viljoen
Summary: Aspalathin, a natural compound found in South African rooibos, possesses various pharmacological properties and is widely used in nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Research has shown its potential in antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities.
PHYTOCHEMISTRY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Nasir Tajuddeen, Tarryn Swart, Heinrich C. Hoppe, Fanie R. van Heerden
Summary: The phytochemical constituents, antiplasmodial, and cytotoxic effects of Ozoroa obovata var. obovata from South Africa were investigated, leading to the isolation of various bioactive compounds with antiplasmodial and antiproliferative activities. The study revealed significant activities of the plant leaf extract against malaria and HeLa cells, along with the identification of several novel compounds in O. obovata.
CHEMISTRY & BIODIVERSITY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Nasir Tajuddeen, Tarryn Swart, Heinrich C. Hoppe, Fanie R. van Heerden
Summary: This study investigated the phytochemical and antiplasmodial properties of Pappea capensis leaves, commonly used by indigenous communities in Africa for treating malaria. The leaf extract showed strong anti-malarial activity but also cytotoxicity against human cervix adenocarcinoma cells. The isolated compounds displayed similar activity patterns, indicating the potential of P. capensis for malaria treatment but the need for further research on its cytotoxic effects on noncancerous cells.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Nasir Tajuddeen, Tarryn Swart, Heinrich C. Hoppe, Fanie R. van Heerden
Summary: Previous studies showed that the methanol extract of Gardenia thunbergia had antiplasmodial activity, but no compounds had been isolated from the plant. This study identified a new saponin and eight other known compounds from the plant's methanol leaf extract, which displayed non-selective antiplasmodial activity. The presence of these isolated compounds in the leaf extract may explain the traditional use of Gardenia thunbergia in treating malaria.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Nontembeko Dube, Fanie R. van Heerden, Costas Zachariades, Osariyekemwen O. Uyi, Thinandavha C. Munyai
Summary: This study investigated the alkaloids and PAs from Chromolaena odorata in different regions and habitats in South Africa, with and without the specialist herbivore Pareuchaetes insulata, and isolated two pyrrolizidine alkaloids from the root extract of the plant. The presence of alkaloids and pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the SAB C. odorata was detected for the first time in this study, with implications for plant defense and herbivore interactions.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Talent Chipiti, Alvaro M. Viljoen, Maria L. Cordero-Maldonado, Clinton G. L. Veale, Fanie R. Van Heerden, Maxleene Sandasi, Weiyang Chen, Alexander D. Crawford, Gill M. Enslin
Summary: This study screened 20 medicinal plants traditionally used in South Africa for epilepsy treatment, and identified compounds from Rauvolfia caffra Sond. that showed potential anti-epileptic activity in a zebrafish larvae model. The findings suggest the possibility of developing new anti-seizure therapeutic compounds from these natural sources.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Nasir Tajuddeen, Tarryn Swart, Heinrich C. Hoppe, Fanie R. van Heerden
Summary: This study identified methyl gallate as the compound responsible for the antiplasmodial activity of Vachellia xanthophloea leaf extract. Other compounds isolated from the plant were also determined. Methyl gallate showed good inhibitory activity against P. falciparum and low cytotoxicity. These findings explain the traditional use of the plant as an antimalarial remedy.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tsholofelo M. Mapeka, Maxleene Sandasi, Alvaro M. Viljoen, Sandy F. van Vuuren
Summary: This study compares the antioxidant effects of different combinations of culinary herbs and spices, and finds that their combined use can enhance antioxidant activity, suggesting a potential for the development of innovative supplements for optimal health.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Katyna J. Boussamba-Digombou, Maxleene Sandasi, Guy P. Kamatou, Sandy van Vuuren, Rafal Sawicki, Zeynab Fakhar, Alvaro M. Viljoen
Summary: This study investigated the in vitro anti-TB activity of 85 commercial essential oils, identified potential therapeutic targets, and demonstrated broad-spectrum antimycobacterial activity for Cinnamomum zeylanicum and Levisticum officinale. The research provides insights into developing novel antimicrobial compounds targeting FtsZ and PknB from M. tuberculosis.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Anja Haasbroek-Pheiffer, Alvaro Viljoen, Jan Steenekamp, Weiyang Chen, Josias Hamman
Summary: The intranasal route of drug administration allows direct delivery into the brain by bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Medicinal plants like Centella asiatica and Mesembryanthemum tortuosum have shown scientific evidence in treating conditions like anxiety and depression. Permeation studies on asiaticoside and mesembrine, as well as crude extracts of C. asiatica and M. tortuosum, have demonstrated their potential for direct nose-to-brain delivery of psychoactive phytochemicals.
Article
Plant Sciences
Anaswara Rani, Sneha Asha, Minsa Mini, Pooja P. Rajan, Merin Tomy, Ashita Jose, Xavier Ts, Praveen Kumar
Summary: This study focuses on the eco-friendly synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using Centra-therum punctatum leaf extract. The synthesized nanoparticles showed potent antimicrobial activity and effectively inhibited biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These findings demonstrate the potential of copper oxide nanoparticles for environmentally friendly synthesis and applications.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Bruno Fagundes dos Santos, Talita Oliveira de Arauja, Camilla Oliveira Rios, Advanio Inacio Siqueira-Silva, Eduardo Gusmao Pereira
Summary: This study investigated the interaction between iron excess and phosphorus deficiency in Paspalum densum. The results showed that iron excess decreased phosphorus concentration in roots, while phosphorus deficiency increased iron concentration in leaves. Stomatal limitation was the main cause of decreased photosynthesis due to iron excess. Phosphorus deficiency contributed to higher phosphorus use efficiency and biomass.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2024)