Characterization of Diastereomeric Equilibria of Pseudotetrahedral Bis[(R or S)‐N‐1‐(Ar)Ethylsalicylaldiminato‐κ2N,O]zinc(II) with Λ/Δ‐Chirality‐At‐Metal Induction

A family of bis[(R or S)‐N‐1‐(Ar)ethylsalicylaldiminato‐κ²N,O]‐Δ/Λ‐zinc(II) {Ar=C₆H₅ (ZnRL¹ or ZnSL¹), p‐CH₃OC₆H₄ (ZnRL² or ZnSL²) and p‐ClC₆H₄ (ZnRL³ or ZnSL³)} compounds was synthesized and investigated by multiple methods. They feature Λ/Δ‐chirality‐at‐metal induction along the pseudo‐C ₂ axis of the molecules. The chirality induction is quantitative in the solid state, explored by X‐ray crystallography and powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), where R or S‐ligated complexes diastereoselectively yield Λ or Δ‐configuration at the metal. On the other hand, Λ and Δ‐diastereomers co‐exist in solution. The Λ⇆Δ equilibrium is solvent‐ and temperature‐dependent. Electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra confirm the existence of a diastereomeric excess of Λ‐ZnRL¹⁻³ or Δ‐ZnSL¹⁻³ in solution. DSC analysis reveals thermally induced irreversible phase transformation from a crystalline solid to an isotropic liquid phase. ECD spectra were reproduced by DFT geometry optimizations and time‐dependent DFT (TD‐DFT) calculations, providing ultimate proof of the dominant chirality atmetal in solution.     

trans-Hydroboration–oxidation products in Δ5-steroids via a hydroboration-retro-hydroboration mechanism

Herein, we report for the first time a “trans-hydroboration–oxidation product” isolated and characterized under traditional hydroboration–oxidation conditions using cholesterol and diosgenin as substrates. These substrates are excellent starting materials because of the rigidity and different structural environments around the double bond. Further investigations based on experimental evidence, in conjunction with theoretical studies, indicate that the formation of this trans-species occurs via a retro-hydroboration of the major product to generate the corresponding Δ⁶-structure and the subsequent hydroboration by the β-face. Besides, the corresponding Markovnikov type products have been isolated in synthetically useful yields. The behavior of the reaction under a range of temperatures is also investigated.

A trans-product is isolated and characterized under traditional hydroboration–oxidation conditions using Δ⁵-steroids as substrates. Experimental and theoretical studies indicate that the trans-species occurs via a retro-hydroboration mechanism.     

Correlations between ligand field Δo,spin crossover T1/2 and redox potential Epa in a family of five dinuclear helicates

A family of five new bis-bidentate azole–triazole Rat ligands (1,3-bis(5-(azole)-4-isobutyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)benzene), varying in choice of azole (2-imidazole, 4-imidazole, 1-methyl-4-imidazole, 4-oxazole and 4-thiazole), and the corresponding family of spin-crossover (SCO) and redox active triply bridged dinuclear helicates, [Fe^II₂L₃]⁴⁺, has been prepared and characterised. X-ray crystal structures show all five Fe(ii) helicates are low spin at 100 K. Importantly, DOSY NMR confirms the intactness of these SCO-active dinuclear helicates in D₃-MeCN solution, regardless of HS fraction: γ_HS(298 K) = 0–0.81. Variable temperature ¹H NMR Evans and UV-vis studies reveal that the helicates are SCO-active in MeCN solution. Indeed, the choice of azole in the Rat ligand used in [Fe₂L₃]⁴⁺ tunes: (a) solution SCO T_1/2 from 247 to 471 K, and (b) reversible redox potential, E_m(Fe^II/III), from 0.25 to 0.67 V for four helicates, whilst one has an irreversible redox process, E_pa = 0.78 V, vs. 0.01 M AgNO₃/Ag. For the four reversible redox systems, a strong correlation (R² = 0.99) is observed between T_1/2 and E_pa. Finally, the analogous Ni(ii) helicates have been prepared to obtain Δ_o, establishing: (a) the ligand field strength order of the ligands: 4-imidazole (11 420) ∼ 1-methyl-4-imidazole (11 430) < 2-imidazole (11 505) ∼ 4-oxazole (11 516) < 4-thiazole (11 804 cm⁻¹), (b) that Δ_o ([Ni^II₂L₃]⁴⁺) strongly correlates (R² = 0.87) with T_1/2 ([Fe^II₂L₃]⁴⁺), and (c) interestingly that Δ_o strongly correlates (R² = 0.98) with E_pa for the four helicates with reversible redox, so the stronger the ligand field strength, the harder it is to oxidise the Fe(ii) to Fe(iii).

Choice of non-coordinated diazole heteroatom in five robust triply bridged dinuclear helicates tunes Δ_o, spin crossover and redox potential. Regardless of fraction high spin (0–0.81), DOSY NMR confirms the helicates are intact in solution.     

Synthesis and Insecticidal Activity of Fire Ant Venom Alkaloid-Based 2-Methyl-6-alkyl-Δ1,6-piperideines

2,6-dialkylpiperideines found in the venom of Solenopsis (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) fire ants are a range of compounds possessing various biological activities. A series of racemic 2-methyl-6-alkyl-Δ^1,6-piperideines were synthesized for chemical confirmation of the natural products found in fire ant venom, and the evaluation of their biological activity. Synthetic Δ^1,6-piperideines and the natural compounds in the cis-alkaloid fraction of Solenopsis invicta had identical mass spectra and retention times. Their insecticidal activities against the third-instar larvae of cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) were evaluated by using injection and topical application methods. All three compounds exhibited no lethal effect at concentrations of 0.05–0.4 mol/L by topical treatment, but moderate lethal effect at 0.4 mol/L through injection treatment. Compound 6a showed significantly higher activity than the natural insecticide nicotine. The differences in activity among compounds 6b, 6c and nicotine were not significant. The elongation of the carbon chain at the 6-position of the piperideine ring appears to decrease insecticidal activity.     

Homologous and Heterologous Expression of Delta(12)-Desaturase in Mucor circinelloides Enhanced the Production of Linolenic Acid

Linolenic acid (LA) is gaining more interest within the scientific community. This is because it has a potential medical role in reducing the risk of inflammation, carcinogenesis, atherosclerosis and diabetes and is a valuable nutraceutical for human health. The oleaginous fungus Mucor circinelloides produces a high lipid content (36%), including valuable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). However, the critical step in which oleic acid (OA) is converted into LA is not efficient at supplying enough substrates for PUFA synthesis. Hence, we propose a method to increase LA production based on genetic engineering. The overexpression of the Δ12-desaturase gene from M. circinelloides and Mortierella alpina increased the LA content and improved the lipid accumulation (from 14.9% to 21.6% in the Δ12-desaturase gene of the M. circinelloides overexpressing strain (Mc-D12MC) and from 14.9% to 18.7% in the Δ12-desaturase gene of M. alpina overexpressing strain (Mc-D12MA)). Additionally, the up-regulated expression levels of these genes targeted the genes involved in NADPH production, implying that the elevated Δ12-desaturase gene may function as a critical regulator of NADPH and lipid synthesis in M. circinelloides. This study provides the first evidence to support the design of metabolic engineering related to LA and PUFA production in M. circinelloides for potential industrial applications.     

Detoxified pneumolysin derivative ΔA146Ply inhibits autophagy and induces apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia cells by activating mTOR signaling

Leukemia is caused by the malignant clonal expansion of hematopoietic stem cells, and in adults, the most common type of leukemia is acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Autophagy inhibitors are often used in preclinical and clinical models in leukemia therapy. However, clinically available autophagy inhibitors and their efficacy are very limited. More effective and safer autophagy inhibitors are urgently needed for leukemia therapy. In a previous study, we showed that ΔA146Ply, a mutant of pneumolysin that lacks hemolytic activity, inhibited autophagy of triple-negative breast cancer cells by activating mannose receptor (MR) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and that tumor-bearing mice tolerated ΔA146Ply well. Whether this agent affects AML cells expressing TLR4 and MR and the related mechanisms remain to be determined. In this study, we found that ΔA146Ply inhibited autophagy and induced apoptosis in AML cells. A mechanistic study showed that ΔA146Ply inhibited autophagy by activating mammalian target of rapamycin signaling and induced apoptosis by inhibiting autophagy. ΔA146Ply also inhibited autophagy and induced apoptosis in a mouse model of AML. Furthermore, the combination of ΔA146Ply and chloroquine synergistically inhibited autophagy and induced apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Overall, this study provides an alternative effective autophagy inhibitor that may be used for leukemia therapy.Subject terms: Translational research, Acute myeloid leukaemia     

Botanically-Derived Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol,and Their 1:1 Combination,Modulate Toll-like Receptor 3 and 4 Signalling in Immune Cells from People with Multiple Sclerosis

The innate immune response to bacterial and viral molecules involves the coordinated production of cytokines, chemokines, and type I interferons (IFNs), which is orchestrated by toll-like receptors (TLRs). TLRs, and their intracellular signalling intermediates, are closely associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis. Recent data from our laboratory reported that the plant-derived cannabinoids, Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), regulate viral and bacterial inflammatory signalling pathways controlled by TLR3 and TLR4 in macrophages. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of THC and CBD, when delivered in isolation and in combination (1:1), on TLR3- and TLR4-dependent signalling in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from people with MS (pwMS; n = 21) and healthy controls (HCs; n = 26). We employed the use of poly(I:C) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce viral TLR3 and bacterial TLR4 signalling, and PBMCs were pre-exposed to plant-derived highly purified THC (10 μM), CBD (10 μM), or a combination of both phytocannabinoids (1:1 ratio, 10:10 μM), prior to LPS/poly(I:C) exposure. TLR3 stimulation promoted the protein expression of the chemokine CXCL10 and the type I IFN-β in PBMCs from both cohorts. THC and CBD (delivered in 1:1 combination at 10 μM) attenuated TLR3-induced CXCL10 and IFN-β protein expression in PBMCs from pwMS and HCs, and this effect was not seen consistently when THC and CBD were delivered alone. In terms of LPS, TLR4 activation promoted TNF-α expression in PBMCs from both cohorts, and, interestingly, CBD when delivered alone at 10 μM, and in combination with THC (in 1:1 combination at 10 μM), exacerbated TLR4-induced TNF-α protein expression in PBMCs from pwMS and HCs. THC and CBD displayed no evidence of toxicity in primary PBMCs. No significant alteration in the relative expression of TLR3 and TLR4 mRNA, or components of the endocannabinoid system, including the cannabinoid receptor CB₁ (encoded by CNR1 gene) and CB₂ (encoded by CNR2 gene), and endocannabinoid metabolising enzymes, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MGLL), was determined in PBMCs from pwMS versus HCs. Given their role in inflammation, TLRs are clinical targets, and data herein identify CBD and THC as TLR3 and TLR4 modulating drugs in primary immune cells in vitro. This offers insight on the cellular target(s) of phytocannabinoids in targeting inflammation in the context of MS.     

GSH Protects the Escherichia coli Cells from High Concentrations of Thymoquinone

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential protective effect of glutathione (GSH) on Escherichia coli cells grown in a high concentration of thymoquinone (TQ). This quinone, as the main active compound of Nigella sativa seed oil, exhibits a wide range of biological activities. At low concentrations, it acts as an antioxidant, and at high concentrations, an antimicrobial agent. Therefore, any interactions between thymoquinone and glutathione are crucial for cellular defense against oxidative stress. In this study, we found that GSH can conjugate with thymoquinone and its derivatives in vitro, and only fivefold excess of GSH was sufficient to completely deplete TQ and its derivatives. We also carried out studies on cultures of GSH-deficient Escherichia coli strains grown on a minimal medium in the presence of different concentrations of TQ. The strains harboring mutations in gene ΔgshA and ΔgshB were about two- and fourfold more sensitive (256 and 128 µg/mL, respectively) than the wild type. It was also revealed that TQ concentration has an influence on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in E. coli strains—at the same thymoquinone concentration, the level of ROS was higher in GSH-deficient E. coli strains than in wild type.     

Δ8(14)-Ergostenol Glycoside Derivatives Inhibit the Expression of Inflammatory Mediators and Matrix Metalloproteinase

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease accompanied by pathological reactions such as swelling, redness, fever, and pain in various joint areas. The drugs currently available to treat arthritis are associated with diverse side-effects. Therefore, there is a need for safer and more effective treatments to alleviate the inflammation of arthritis with fewer side-effects. In this study, a new sterol, Δ⁸⁽¹⁴⁾-ergostenol, was discovered, and its glycosides were synthesized and found to be more efficient in terms of synthesis or anti-inflammatory activity than either spinasterol or 5,6-dihydroergosterol is. Among these synthetic glycosides, galactosyl ergostenol inhibited the expression of inflammatory mediators in TNF-α-stimulated FLS and TNF-α-induced MMPs and collagen type II A1 degradation in human chondrocytes. These results suggest the new galactosyl ergostenol as a treatment candidate for arthritis.     

Wnt/β-catenin signaling stimulates the self-renewal of conjunctival stem cells and promotes corneal conjunctivalization

Limbal stem cell deficiency causes conjunctivalization characterized by the covering of the corneal surface with conjunctival epithelium. However, the driving force for the encroachment of these conjunctival cells is unclear. Conjunctival stem cells are bipotent stem cells that can proliferate and differentiate into conjunctival epithelial cells and goblet cells to maintain regeneration of the conjunctival epithelium. Here, we show a robust proliferative response of conjunctival stem cells and upregulation of Wnt2b and Wnt3a gene expression in the conjunctivae of mice with induced limbal stem cell deficiency. Topical application of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling activator CHIR resulted in increased proliferation of ΔNp63α-positive stem cells in the basal layers of the bulbar and forniceal conjunctivae and enhanced invasion of conjunctival epithelial and goblet cells into the corneal surface. We also found that in cultures of stem cells isolated from the human conjunctiva, Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation improved the expansion of the ΔNp63α/ABCG2 double-positive cell population by promoting the proliferation and preventing the differentiation of these cells. These expanded stem cells formed a stratified epithelium containing goblet cells under airlift culture conditions. Our data reveal that Wnt/β-catenin signaling contributes to the pathological process of limbal stem cell deficiency by promoting the self-renewal of conjunctival stem cells and suggest that these cells are a driving force in corneal conjunctivalization.Subject terms: Self-renewal, Stem-cell research, Experimental models of disease     

The Trypanosoma cruzi TcrNT2 Nucleoside Transporter Is a Conduit for the Uptake of 5-F-2′-Deoxyuridine and Tubercidin Analogues

Among the scarce validated drug targets against Chagas disease (CD), caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite’s nucleoside salvage system has recently attracted considerable attention. Although the trypanocidal activity of tubercidin (7-deazapurine) has long been known, the identification of a class of 7-substituted tubercidin analogs with potent in vitro and in vivo activity and much-enhanced selectivity has made nucleoside analogs among the most promising lead compounds against CD. Here, we investigate the recently identified TcrNT2 nucleoside transporter and its potential role in antimetabolite chemotherapy. TcrNT2, expressed in a Leishmania mexicana cell line lacking the NT1 nucleoside transporter locus, displayed very high selectivity and affinity for thymidine with a K_m of 0.26 ± 0.05 µM. The selectivity was explained by interactions of 2-oxo, 4-oxo, 5-Me, 3′-hydroxy and 5′-hydroxy with the transporter binding pocket, whereas a hydroxy group at the 2′ position was deleterious to binding. This made 5-halogenated 2′-deoxyuridine analogues good substrates but 5-F-2′-deoxyuridine displayed disappointing activity against T. cruzi trypomastigotes. By comparing the EC₅₀ values of tubercidin and its 7-substituted analogues against L. mexicana Cas9, Cas9^ΔNT1 and Cas9^ΔNT1+TcrNT2 it was shown that TcrNT2 can take up tubercidin and, at a minimum, a subset of the analogs.     

In Silico Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Thymol—Major Compounds in the Essential Oil of Lippia thymoides Mart. & Schauer (Verbenaceae)

In this paper, we evaluated the drug-receptor interactions responsible for the antimicrobial activity of thymol, the major compound present in the essential oil (EO) of Lippia thymoides (L. thymoides) Mart. & Schauer (Verbenaceae). It was previously reported that this EO exhibits antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans (C. albicans), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Therefore, we used molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and free energy calculations to investigate the interaction of thymol with pharmacological receptors of interest to combat these pathogens. We found that thymol interacted favorably with the active sites of the microorganisms’ molecular targets. MolDock Score results for systems formed with CYP51 (C. albicans), Dihydrofolate reductase (S. aureus), and Dihydropteroate synthase (E. coli) were −77.85, −67.53, and −60.88, respectively. Throughout the duration of the MD simulations, thymol continued interacting with the binding pocket of the molecular target of each microorganism. The van der Waals (ΔE_vdW = −24.88, −26.44, −21.71 kcal/mol, respectively) and electrostatic interaction energies (ΔE_ele = −3.94, −11.07, −12.43 kcal/mol, respectively) and the nonpolar solvation energies (ΔG_NP = −3.37, −3.25, −2.93 kcal/mol, respectively) were mainly responsible for the formation of complexes with CYP51 (C. albicans), Dihydrofolate reductase (S. aureus), and Dihydropteroate synthase (E. coli).     

Comparative Metabolomic Profiling of the Metabolic Differences of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol

More than one hundred cannabinoids have been found in cannabis. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the recognized addictive constituent in cannabis; however, the mechanisms underlying THC-induced toxicity remain elusive. To better understand cannabis-induced toxicity, the present study compared the metabolic pathways of THC and its isomer cannabidiol (CBD) in human and mouse liver microsomes using the metabolomic approach. Thirty-two metabolites of THC were identified, including nine undescribed metabolites. Of note, two glutathione (GSH) and two cysteine (Cys) adducts were found in THC’s metabolism. Molecular docking revealed that THC conjugates have a higher affinity with GSH and Cys than with the parent compound, THC. Human recombinant cytochrome P450 enzymes, and their corresponding chemical inhibitors, demonstrated that CYP3A4 and CYP1B1 were the primary enzymes responsible for the formation of THC-GSH and THC-Cys, thus enabling conjugation to occur. Collectively, this study systematically compared the metabolism of THC with the metabolism of CBD using the metabolomic approach, which thus highlights the critical role of metabolomics in identifying novel drug metabolites. Moreover, this study also facilitates mechanistic speculation in order to expand the knowledge of drug metabolism and safety.     

A fourteen-component high-entropy alloy@oxide bifunctional electrocatalyst with a record-low ΔE of 0.61 V for highly reversible Zn–air batteries

Nanostructured high-entropy materials such as alloys, oxides, etc., are attracting extensive attention because of their widely tunable surface electronic structure/catalytic activity through mixing different elements in one system. To further tune the catalytic performance and multifunctionality, the designed fabrication of multicomponent high-entropy nanocomposites such as high-entropy alloy@high-entropy oxides (HEA@HEO) should be very promising. In this work, we design a two-step alloying–dealloying strategy to synthesize ultra-small HEA nanoclusters (∼2 nm) loaded on nanoporous HEO nanowires, and the compositions of both the HEA and HEO can be adjusted separately. To demonstrate this concept, a seven-component HEA (PtPdAuAgCuIrRu) clusters@seven-component HEO (AlNiCoFeCrMoTi)₃O₄ was prepared, which is highly active for both oxygen evolution and reduction reactions. Our comprehensive experimental results and first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations clearly show that better oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance is obtained by optimizing the composition of the HEO support, and the seven-component HEA nanocluster is much more active for the ORR when compared with pure Pt due to the modified surface electronic structure. Specifically, the high-entropy composite exhibits an OER activity comparable to the best reported value, and the ORR activity exceeded the performance of commercial Pt/C in alkaline solutions with a record-low bifunctional ΔE of 0.61 V in 0.1 M KOH solution. This work shows an important route to prepare complex HEA@HEO nanocomposites with tuned catalytic performance for multifunctional catalysis and energy conversion.

Nanostructured high-entropy materials such as alloys, oxides, etc., are attracting extensive attention because of their widely tunable surface electronic structure/catalytic activity through mixing different elements in one system.     

Green Preparation of Antimicrobial 1D-Coordination Polymers: [Zn(4,4′-bipy)Cl2]∞ and [Zn(4,4′-bipy)2(OAc)2]∞ by Ultrasonication of Zn(II) Salts and 4,4′-Bipyridine

We report on the green preparation of one-dimensional metal coordination polymers by sonochemical approach. The spacer ligand 4,4′-bipyridine was ultrasonicated with chloride or acetate zinc salts to obtain [Zn(4,4′-bipy)Cl₂]_∞ and [Zn(4,4′-bipy)₂(OAc)₂]_∞, respectively. Benign solvents such as ethanol and water were selected as reaction media, and the synthesis took place in a few minutes—a very short time compared to conventional methods where some days’ synthesis is required. X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis (thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry), and CHN techniques investigated the influence of using different reaction solvents on the chemical, structural, and thermal properties of the final products. The 1D [Zn(4,4′-bipy)Cl₂]_∞ and [Zn(4,4′-bipy)₂(OAc)₂]_∞ polymers, in agreement with the structures reported in the literature, were obtained in the form of nanocrystals with an average crystal size around 100 nm. As a proof of concept, a set of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniae), and three yeast strains (Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida glabrata) were tested to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the coordination polymers, following the Kirby–Bauer procedure and microplate dilution method. Thus, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and minimal biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) were evaluated. Except for Candida krusei, the compounds showed an appreciable antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against these strains grown in the liquid medium.     

Synthesis,Neuroprotection, and Antioxidant Activity of 1,1′-Biphenylnitrones as α-Phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone Analogues in In Vitro Ischemia Models

Herein, we report the neuroprotective and antioxidant activity of 1,1′-biphenyl nitrones (BPNs) 1–5 as α-phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone analogues prepared from commercially available [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-carbaldehyde and [1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-dicarbaldehyde. The neuroprotection of BPNs 1-5 has been measured against oligomycin A/rotenone and in an oxygen–glucose deprivation in vitro ischemia model in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Our results indicate that BPNs 1–5 have better neuroprotective and antioxidant properties than α-phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone (PBN), and they are quite similar to N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), which is a well-known antioxidant agent. Among the nitrones studied, homo-bis-nitrone BPHBN5, bearing two N-tert-Bu radicals at the nitrone motif, has the best neuroprotective capacity (EC₅₀ = 13.16 ± 1.65 and 25.5 ± 3.93 μM, against the reduction in metabolic activity induced by respiratory chain blockers and oxygen–glucose deprivation in an in vitro ischemia model, respectively) as well as anti-necrotic, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant activities (EC₅₀ = 11.2 ± 3.94 μM), which were measured by its capacity to reduce superoxide production in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell cultures, followed by mononitrone BPMN3, with one N-Bn radical, and BPMN2, with only one N-tert-Bu substituent. The antioxidant activity of BPNs 1-5 has also been analyzed for their capacity to scavenge hydroxyl free radicals (82% at 100 μM), lipoxygenase inhibition, and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation (68% at 100 μM). Results showed that although the number of nitrone groups improves the neuroprotection profile of these BPNs, the final effect is also dependent on the substitutent that is being incorporated. Thus, BPNs bearing N-tert-Bu and N-Bn groups show better neuroprotective and antioxidant properties than those substituted with Me. All these results led us to propose homo-bis-nitrone BPHBN5 as the most balanced and interesting nitrone based on its neuroprotective capacity in different neuronal models of oxidative stress and in vitro ischemia as well as its antioxidant activity.     

Novel Sterically Crowded and Conformationally Constrained α-Aminophosphonates with a Near-Neutral pKa as Highly Accurate 31P NMR pH Probes. Application to Subtle pH Gradients Determination in Dictyostelium discoideum Cells

In order to discover new ³¹P NMR markers for probing subtle pH changes (<0.2 pH unit) in biological environments, fifteen new conformationally constrained or sterically hindered α-aminophosphonates derived from diethyl(2-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)phosphonate were synthesized and tested for their pH reporting and cytotoxic properties in vitro. All compounds showed near-neutral pK_as (ranging 6.28–6.97), chemical shifts not overlapping those of phosphorus metabolites, and spectroscopic sensitivities (i.e., chemical shifts variation Δδ_ab between the acidic and basic forms) ranging from 9.2–10.7 ppm, being fourfold larger than conventional endogenous markers such as inorganic phosphate. X-ray crystallographic studies combined with predictive empirical relationships and ab initio calculations addressed the inductive and stereochemical effects of substituents linked to the protonated amine function. Satisfactory correlations were established between pK_as and both the 2D structure and pyramidalization at phosphorus, showing that steric crowding around the phosphorus is crucial for modulating Δδ_ab. Finally, the hit ³¹P NMR pH probe 1b bearing an unsubstituted 1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinane ring, which is moderately lipophilic, nontoxic on A549 and NHLF cells, and showing pK_a = 6.45 with Δδ_ab = 10.64 ppm, allowed the first clear-cut evidence of trans-sarcolemmal pH gradients in normoxic Dictyostelium discoideum cells with an accuracy of <0.05 pH units.     

Cannabis-Derived Compounds Cannabichromene and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Interact and Exhibit Cytotoxic Activity against Urothelial Cell Carcinoma Correlated with Inhibition of Cell Migration and Cytoskeleton Organization

Cannabis sativa contains more than 500 constituents, yet the anticancer properties of the vast majority of cannabis compounds remains unknown. We aimed to identify cannabis compounds and their combinations presenting cytotoxicity against bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC), the most common urinary system cancer. An XTT assay was used to determine cytotoxic activity of C. sativa extracts on T24 and HBT-9 cell lines. Extract chemical content was identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was used to determine apoptosis and cell cycle, using stained F-actin and nuclei. Scratch and transwell assays were used to determine cell migration and invasion, respectively. Gene expression was determined by quantitative Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The most active decarboxylated extract fraction (F7) of high-cannabidiol (CBD) C. sativa was found to contain cannabichromene (CBC) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Synergistic interaction was demonstrated between CBC + THC whereas cannabinoid receptor (CB) type 1 and type 2 inverse agonists reduced cytotoxic activity. Treatments with CBC + THC or CBD led to cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. CBC + THC or CBD treatments inhibited cell migration and affected F-actin integrity. Identification of active plant ingredients (API) from cannabis that induce apoptosis and affect cell migration in UC cell lines forms a basis for pre-clinical trials for UC treatment.     

Porphyrin–Schiff Base Conjugates Bearing Basic Amino Groups as Antimicrobial Phototherapeutic Agents

New porphyrin–Schiff base conjugates bearing one (6) and two (7) basic amino groups were synthesized by condensation between tetrapyrrolic macrocycle-containing amine functions and 4-(3-(N,N-dimethylamino)propoxy)benzaldehyde. This approach allowed us to easily obtain porphyrins substituted by positive charge precursor groups in aqueous media. These compounds showed the typical Soret and four Q absorption bands with red fluorescence emission (Φ_F ~ 0.12) in N,N-dimethylformamide. Porphyrins 6 and 7 photosensitized the generation of O₂(¹Δ_g) (Φ_Δ ~ 0.44) and the photo-oxidation of L-tryptophan. The decomposition of this amino acid was mainly mediated by a type II photoprocess. Moreover, the addition of KI strongly quenched the photodynamic action through a reaction with O₂(¹Δ_g) to produce iodine. The photodynamic inactivation capacity induced by porphyrins 6 and 7 was evaluated in Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. Furthermore, the photoinactivation of these microorganisms was improved using potentiation with iodide anions. These porphyrins containing basic aliphatic amino groups can be protonated in biological systems, which provides an amphiphilic character to the tetrapyrrolic macrocycle. This effect allows one to increase the interaction with the cell wall, thus improving photocytotoxic activity against microorganisms.     

“Anti-electrostatic” halogen bonding in solution

Halogen-bonded (XB) complexes between halide anions and a cyclopropenylium-based anionic XB donor were characterized in solution for the first time. Spontaneous formation of such complexes confirms that halogen bonding is sufficiently strong to overcome electrostatic repulsion between two anions. The formation constants of such “anti-electrostatic” associations are comparable to those formed by halides with neutral halogenated electrophiles. However, while the latter usually show charge-transfer absorption bands, the UV-Vis spectra of the anion–anion complexes examined herein are determined by the electronic excitations within the XB donor. The identification of XB anion–anion complexes substantially extends the range of the feasible XB systems, and it provides vital information for the discussion of the nature of this interaction.

Spontaneous formation of “anti-electrostatic” complexes in solution demonstrates that halogen bonding can be sufficiently strong to overcome anion–anion repulsion when the latter is attenuated by the polar medium.

Halogen bonding (XB) is an attractive interaction between a Lewis base (LB) and a halogenated compound, exhibiting an electrophilic region on the halogen atom.¹ It is most commonly related to electrostatic interaction between an electron-rich species (XB acceptor) and an area of positive electrostatic potential (σ-holes) on the surface of the halogen substituent in the electrophilic molecule (XB donor).² Provided that mutual polarization of the interacting species is taken into account, the σ-hole model explains geometric features and the variation of stabilities of XB associations, especially in the series of relatively weak complexes.³ Based on the definition of halogen bonding and its electrostatic interpretation, this interaction is expected to involve either cationic or neutral XB donors. Electrostatic interaction of anionic halogenated species with electron-rich XB acceptors, however, seems to be repulsive, especially if the latter are also anionic. Yet, computational analyses predicted that halogen bonding between ions of like charges, called “anti-electrostatic” halogen bonding (AEXB),⁴ can possibly be formed^5–12 and the first examples of AEXB complexes formed by different anions, i.e. halide anions and the anionic iodinated bis(dicyanomethylene)cyclopropanide derivatives 1 (see Scheme 1) or the anionic tetraiodo-p-benzoquinone radical, were characterized recently in the solid state.^13,14 The identification of such complexes substantially extends the range of feasible XB systems, and it provides vital information for the discussion of the nature of this interaction. Computational results, however, significantly depend on the used methods and applied media (gas phase vs. polar environment and solvation models) and the solid state arrangements of the XB species might be affected by crystal forces and/or counterions. Unambiguous confirmation of the stability of the halogen-bonded anion–anion complexes and verification of their thermodynamic characteristics thus requires experimental characterization of the spontaneous formation of such associations in solution. Still, while the solution-phase complexes formed by hydrogen bonding between two anionic species were reported previously,^15–17 there is currently no example of “anti-electrostatic” XB in solution.Open in a separate windowScheme 1Structures of the XB donor 1 and its hydrogen-substituted analogue 2.To examine halogen bonding between two anions in solution, we turn to the interaction between halides and 1,2-bis(dicyanomethylene)-3-iodo-cyclopropanide 1 (Scheme 1).^‡ Even though this compound features a cationic cyclopropenylium core, it is overall anionic, and calculations have demonstrated that its electrostatic potential is universally negative across its entire surface.¹³ The solution of 1 (with tris(dimethylamino)cyclopropenium (TDA) as counterion) in acetonitrile is characterized by an absorption band at 288 nm with ε = 2.3 × 10⁴ M⁻¹ cm⁻¹ (Fig. 1). As LB, we first applied iodide anions taken as a salt with n-tetrabutylammonium counter-ion, Bu₄NI. This salt does not show absorption bands above 290 nm, but its addition to a solution of 1 led to a rise of absorption in the 290–350 nm range (Fig. 1). Subtraction of the absorption of the individual components from that of their mixture produced a differential spectrum which shows a maximum at about 301 nm (insert in Fig. 1). At constant concentration of the XB donor (1) and constant ionic strength, the intensity of the absorption in the range of 280–300 nm (and hence differential absorbance, ΔAbs) rises with increasing iodide concentration (Fig. S1 in the ESI^†). This suggests that the interaction of iodide with 1 results in the formation of the [1, I⁻]-complex which shows a higher absorptivity in this spectral range (eqn (1)):1 + X⁻ ⇌ [1, X⁻]1Open in a separate windowFig. 1Spectra of acetonitrile solutions with constant concentration of 1 (0.60 mM) and various concentrations of Bu₄NI (6.0, 13, 32, 49, 75, 115 and 250 mM, solid lines from the bottom to the top). The dashed lines show spectra of the individual solutions 1 (c = 0.60 mM, red line) and Bu₄NI (c = 250 mM, blue line). The ionic strength was maintained using Bu₄NPF₆. Insert: Differential spectra of the solutions obtained by subtraction of the absorption of the individual components from the spectra of their corresponding mixtures.To clarify the mode of interaction between 1 and iodide in the complex, we also performed analogous measurements with the hydrogen-substituted compound 2 (see Scheme 1). The addition of iodide to a solution of 2 in acetonitrile did not increase the absorption in the 280–300 nm spectral range. Instead, some decrease of the absorption band intensity of 2 with the increase of concentration of I⁻ anions was observed (Fig. S2 in the ESI^†). Such changes are related to a blue shift of this band resulting from the hydrogen bonding between 2 and iodide (formation of hydrogen-bonded [2, I⁻] complex is corroborated by the observation of the small shift of the NMR signal of the proton of 2 to the higher ppm values in the presence of I⁻ anions, see Fig. S3 in the ESI^†).^§ Furthermore, since H-compound 2 should be at least as suitable as XB donor 1 to form anion–π complexes with the halide, this finding (as well as solid-state and computational data^¶) rules out that any increase in absorption in this region observed with the I-compound 1 may be due to this alternative interaction.Likewise, the addition of NBu₄I to a solution of TDA cations taken as a salt with Cl⁻ anions did not result in an increase in the relevant region. Hence, we could also rule out anion–π interactions with the TDA counter-ions as source of the observed changes, which is in line with previous reports on the electron-rich nature of TDA.¹⁸All these observations (supported by the computational analysis, vide infra) indicate that the [1, I⁻] complex (eqn (1)) is formed via halogen bonding of I⁻ with iodine substituents in 1. The changes in the intensities of the differential absorption ΔAbs as a function of the iodide concentration (with constant concentration of XB donor (1) as well as constant ionic strength) are well-modelled by the 1 : 1 binding isotherm (Fig. S1 in the ESI^†). The fit of the absorption data produced a formation constant of K = 15 M⁻¹ for the [1, I⁻] complex (Table 1).^|| The overlap with the absorption of the individual XB donor hindered the accurate evaluation of the position and intensity of the absorption band of the corresponding complex which is formed upon LB-addition to 1. As such, the values of Δλ_max shown in Table 1 represent a wavelength of the largest difference in the absorptivity of the [1, I⁻] complex and individual anion 1, and Δε reflects the difference of their absorptivity at this point (see the ESI^† for the details of calculations).Equilibrium constants and spectral characteristics of the complexes of 1 with halide anions X⁻