The depsidones from marine sponge-derived fungus Aspergillus unguis IB151 as an anti-MRSA agent: Molecular docking,pharmacokinetics analysis,and molecular dynamic simulation studies

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an emerging nosocomial pathogen among hospitalized patients, with high morbidity and mortality rates. The discovery of a novel antibacterial is urgently needed to address this resistance problem. The present study aims to explore the antibacterial potential of three depsidone compounds: 2-clorounguinol (1), unguinol (2), and nidulin (3), isolated from the marine sponge-derived fungus Aspergillus unguis IB1, both in vitro and in silico. The antibacterial activity of all compounds was evaluated by calculating the Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against MRSA using agar diffusion and total plate count methods, respectively. Bacterial cell morphology changes were  studied for the first time using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Molecular docking, pharmacokinetics analysis, and molecular dynamics simulation were performed to determine possible protein–ligand interactions and the stability of the targeting penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a) against 2-clorounguinol (1). The research findings indicated that compounds 1 to 3 exhibited MIC and MBC values of 2 µg/mL and 16 µg/mL against MRSA, respectively. MRSA cells displayed a distinct shape after the addition of the depsidone compound, as observed in SEM. According to the in silico study, 2-chlorounguinol exhibited the highest binding-free energy (BFE) with PBP2a (-6.7 kcal/mol). For comparison, (E)-3-(2-(4-cyanostyryl)-4-oxoquinazolin-3(4H)-yl) benzoic acid inhibits PBP2a with a BFE less than −6.6 kcal/mol. Based on the Lipinski's rule of 5, depsidone compounds constitute a class of compounds with good pharmacokinetic properties, being easily absorbed and permeable. These findings suggest that 2-chlorounguinol possesses potential antibacterial activity and could be developed as an antibiotic adjuvant to reduce antimicrobial resistance.     

Investigation of nepetolide as a novel lead compound: Antioxidant,antimicrobial, cytotoxic,anticancer, anti-inflammatory,analgesic activities and molecular docking evaluation

In the present study, we describe various pharmacological effects and computational analysis of nepetolide, a tricyclic clerodane-type diterpene, isolated from Nepeta suavis. Nepetolide concentration-dependently (1.0–1000?µg/mL) exhibited 1,1-diphenyl,2-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity with maximum effect of 87.01?±?1.85%, indicating its antioxidant potential, as shown by standard drug, ascorbic acid. It was moderately active against bacterial strain of Staphylococcus aureus. In brine shrimp’s lethality model, nepetolide potently showed cytotoxic effect, with LC₅₀ value of 8.7?µg/mL. When evaluated for antitumor activity in potato disc tumor assay, nepetolide exerted tumor inhibitory effect of 56.5?±?1.5% at maximum tested concentration of 1000?µg/mL. Nepetolide at 20?mg/kg reduced carrageenan-induced inflammation (P?<?.001 vs. saline group) in rat paw. Nepetolide dose-dependently (100–500?mg/kg) decreased acetic acid evoked writhes, as exhibited by diclofenac sodium. In-silico investigation of nepetolide was carried out against cyclooxygenase-2, epidermal growth factor receptor and lipoxygenase-2 targets. Virtual screening through Patchdock online docking server identified primarily hydrophobic interactions between ligand nepetolide and receptors proteins. Enhanced hydrogen bonding was predicted with Autodock showing 6–8 hydrogen bonds per target. These results indicate that nepetolide exhibits antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities and should be considered as a lead compound for developing drugs for the remedy of oxidative stress-induced disorders, microbial infections, cancers, inflammations and pain.     

Siphonocholin isolated from red sea sponge Siphonochalina siphonella attenuates quorum sensing controlled virulence and biofilm formation

Increasing incidence of multi-drug resistant bacterial pathogens, especially in clinical settings, has been developed into a grave health situation. The drug resistance problem demands the necessity for alternative unique therapeutic policies. One such tactic is targeting the quorum sensing (QS) controlled virulence and biofilm production. In this study, we evaluated a marine steroid Siphonocholin (Syph-1) isolated from Siphonochalina siphonella against Chromobacterium violaceum (CV) 12472, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Acinetobacter baumannii (BAA) for biofilm and pellicle formation inhibition, and anti-QS property. MIC of Syph-1 against MRSA, CV, PAO1 was found as 64 µg/mL and 256 µg/mL against BAA. At selected sub-MICs, Syph-1 significantly (P ≤ 0.05) decreased the production of QS regulated virulence functions of CV12472 (violacein) and PAO1 [elastase, total protease, pyocyanin, chitinase, exopolysaccharides, and swarming motility]. The Syph-1 significantly decreased (p = 0.005) biofilm formation ability of tested bacterial pathogens, at sub-MIC level (PAO1 > MRSA > CV > BAA) and pellicle formation in A. baumannii (at 128 µg/mL). Molecular docking and simulation results indicated that Siph-1 was bound at the active site of BfmR N-terminal domain with high affinity. This study highlights the anti-QS and anti-biofilm activity of Syph-1 against bacterial pathogens reflecting its broad spectrum anti-infective potential.     

重组人脑利钠肽治疗急性肺损伤的临床效果及对 NLRP3/6、白细胞介素水平的影响

目的 探讨重组人脑利钠肽治疗急性肺损伤的临床效果及对NLRP3/6及白细胞介素水平的影响.方法 选取2016年9月至2018年9月江南大学附属医院诊治的急性肺损伤病人80例.按照治疗方法采用随机数字表法分为对照组和观察组,每组40例.对照组给予常规治疗,观察组在对照组基础上给予重组人脑利钠肽治疗.分析两组治疗前后Murray评分及氧合指数的变化,并检测治疗前后血清中NLRP3/6及白细胞介素(IL)水平的变化.结果 对照组和观察组治疗后Murray评分[(2.36±0.43)分、(1.19±0.33)分]、NLRP3[(94.6±10.3)pg/mL、(77.7±11.3)pg/mL]、IL-1β[(38.6±12.3)pg/mL、(30.7±12.5)pg/mL]、IL-2[(42.4±12.5)pg/mL、(36.5±10.4)pg/mL]及IL-6[(39.5±13.7)pg/mL、(30.8±11.6)pg/mL]水平明显降低(P<0.05),而氧合指数[(283.4±18.2)、(309.4±24.3)]和NLRP6[(88.9±15.1)pg/mL、(97.8±13.3)pg/mL]明显升高(P<0.05),且观察组治疗后上述项目变化更显著(P<0.05);NLRP6与急性肺损伤呈负相关性而NLRP3、IL-1β、IL-2及IL-6水平与急性肺损伤呈正相关性.结论 重组人脑利钠肽能改善急性肺损伤病人Murray评分及氧合指数效果可能与调节NLRP3/6及白细胞介素水平有关.     

Dual-action of thermoresponsive gels containing DsiRNA-loaded gold nanoparticles for diabetic wound therapy: Characterization,in vitro safety and healing efficacy

Diabetic wounds are difficult to treat due to multiple causes, including reduced blood flow and bacterial infections. Reduced blood flow is associated with overexpression of prostaglandin transporter (PGT) gene, induced by hyperglycaemia which causing poor vascularization and healing of the wound. Recently, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been biosynthesized using cold and hot sclerotium of Lignosus rhinocerotis extracts (CLRE and HLRE, respectively) and capped with chitosan (CS) to produce biocompatible antibacterial nanocomposites. The AuNPs have shown to produce biostatic effects against selected gram positive and negative bacteria. Therefore, in this study, a dual therapy for diabetic wound consisting Dicer subtract small interfering RNA (DsiRNA) and AuNPs was developed to improve vascularization by inhibiting PGT gene expression and preventing bacterial infection, respectively. The nanocomposites were incorporated into thermoresponsive gel, made of pluronic and polyethylene glycol. The particle size of AuNPs synthesized using CLRE (AuNPs-CLRE) and HLRE (AuNPs-HLRE) was 202 ± 49 and 190 ± 31 nm, respectively with positive surface charge (+30 to + 45 mV). The thermoresponsive gels containing DsiRNA-AuNPs gelled at 32 ± 1 °C and released the active agents in sufficient amount with good texture and rheological profiles for topical application. DsiRNA-AuNPs and those incorporated into thermoresponsive pluronic gels demonstrated high cell viability, proliferation and cell migration rate via in vitro cultured cells of human dermal fibroblasts, indicating their non-cytotoxicity and wound healing properties. Taken together, the thermoresponsive gels are expected to be useful as a potential dressing that promotes healing of diabetic wounds.     

三种局部抗菌药物对甲氧西林耐药金黄色葡萄球菌的抗菌活性研究

目的：研究分析三种局部抗菌药物对甲氧西林耐药金黄色葡萄球菌的抗菌活性研究。方法：回顾性分析我院于2014年3月～2015年3月收治的100例烧伤患者的病历资料,对烧伤创面分泌物制作标本,共分离100株非重复并连续的MRSA,应用棋盘格法对磺胺嘧啶银、莫匹罗星、克霉唑单用以及联用时对MRSA的抗菌活性予以分析。结果：磺胺嘧啶银对MRSA的MIC为8μg/mL, MIC50为9μg/mL,MIC90为16μg/mL,莫匹罗星对MRSA的MIC为2μg/mL,MIC50为16μg/mL,MIC90为64μg/mL,克霉唑对MRSA的MIC分别为2μg/mL,MIC50为3μg/mL,MIC90为4μg/mL。莫匹罗星和克霉唑联用,和磺胺嘧啶银单用比较,MIC50降低75%,MIC90降低87.5%;和莫匹罗星单用比较,MIC50降低87.5%,MIC90降低96.9%;和克霉唑单用比较,MIC50降低50%,MIC90降低50.0%;磺胺嘧啶银和莫匹罗星联用,有70例相同,20例相加,10例无关,没有拮抗现象。磺胺嘧啶银和克霉唑联用,92例抗菌效果相加,8例无关,没有协同和拮抗现象。两种药物联用的抗菌活性明显优于单用。结论：MRSA感染的烧伤创面,就要应用较低剂量的磺胺嘧啶银联合其他药物,不仅可以实现感染的有效控制,也能将药物对创面愈合的一种不良反应降低,值得临床推广。     

Rapid,cost-effective and organic solvent-free production of biologically active essential oil from Mediterranean wild Origanum syriacum

BackgroundOriganum syriacum (O. syriacum) is a very popular edible and medicinal plant in the East Mediterranean countries. The aims of the current study were to use microwave-ultrasonic assisted hydrodistillation (MUAHD) method to produce essential oils (EOs) from wild O. syriacum samples collected from four different geographical areas in The West Bank using water as a solvent, determine the phytochemical profile using GC-MS analysis and assess their antioxidant and antibacterial potential.MethodsEssential oils were produced using MUAHD method. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometer detector (GC-MS) was employed for phytochemical analysis. In vitro antibacterial and antioxidant potentials were carried out.ResultsDifferences in the EOs yield among the four Origanum samples were observed. GC-MS analysis of EOs revealed terpenes as the major constituents; monoterpenes (22–56%) and oxygenated monoterpenes (28–57%). Thymol, α-terpinene and carvacrol represent the bulk of all phytochemicals detected by GC-MS analysis. γ-Terpinene-rich EOs, exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity. Thymol-rich EOs were found to be most effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (MIC 390 µg/mL). Alpha-terpinene-rich chemotype EOs exhibited the highest inhibitory effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC of 1560 µg/mL). Interestingly, γ-terpinene-rich EO showed promising antibacterial properties against Enterococcus faecium (MIC 97 µg/mL) and a powerful anti-oxidant effect (91.45% ±2.30).ConclusionThe current study supports the use of MUAHD as a time-saving, cost-effective, environment-friendly method for production of high quality O. syriacum EO for potential use as a natural complementary treatment and in the prevention of bacterial infections as well as oxidation by free radicals without compromising the quantity.     

Formulation and characterization of propolis and tea tree oil nanoemulsion loaded with clindamycin hydrochloride for wound healing: In-vitro and in-vivo wound healing assessment

This study aimed to develop propolis and tea tree oil nanoemulsion loaded with clindamycin hydrochloride to heal wound effectively. Nanoemulsion formulae were prepared and characterized by droplet size analysis, zeta potential, viscosity, ex-vivo permeation, and skin deposition. The optimal formula was evaluated in terms of morphology, cytotoxicity, and in-vitro wound healing assay. Also, the efficacy of the optimal formula was evaluated by in-vivo wound healing and histopathological studies. The optimal formula (F3) was composed of 9% tea tree oil and 0.4% propolis extracts with mean droplet size 19.42 ± 1.7 nm, zeta potential value −24.5 ± 0.2 mV, and viscosity 69.4 ± 1.8 mP. Furthermore, the optimal formula showed the highest skin deposition value 550.00 ± 4.9 µg/cm² compared to other formulae. The TEM micrograph of the optimal formula showed that the nanoemulsion droplet has an almost spherical shape. Also, the optimal formula did not show noticeable toxicity to the human skin fibroblast cells. The in-vitro and in-vivo wound healing assay showed unexpected results that the un-loaded drug nanoemulsion formula had a comparable wound healing efficacy to the drug-loaded nanoemulsion formula. These results were confirmed with histopathological studies. Our results showed that the propolis and tea tree oil nanoemulsion, whether loaded or unloaded with an antibiotic, is an efficient local therapy for wound healing.     

Antimicrobial,antioxidant and anticancer activities of Laurencia catarinensis,Laurencia majuscula and Padina pavonica extracts

The antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of ethanolic extract of Laurencia catarinensis, L. majuscula and Padina pavonica were determined. The highest antibacterial activity; 23.40?±?0.58?mm (00.98?µg/ml) and 22.60?±?2.10?mm (03.90?µg/ml) were obtained against Klebsiella pneumonia by Laurencia catarinensis and Padina pavonica, respectively. However, Padina pavonica showed excellent antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis (21.7?±?1.5?mm; 1.95?µg/ml), Staphylococcus aureus (21.7?±?0.58?mm; 1.95?µg/ml), Streptococcus pyogenes (20.7?±?1.2?mm; 1.95?µg/ml) and Acinetobacter baumannii (20.1?±?1.2?mm; 3.9?µg/ml). Moreover, the highest antifungal activity; 24.7?±?2.0?mm (0.98?µg/ml), 23.7?±?1.5?mm (0.98?µg/ml), 23.6?±?1.5?mm (0.98?µg/ml) was obtained by Padina pavonica against Candida tropicalis, C. albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, respectively. The algal extracts showed DPPH radical scavenging activity in a concentration–dependent manner with maximum scavenging activity (77.6%, IC₅₀?=?5.59?µg/ml and 77.07%, IC₅₀?=?14.3?µg/ml) was provided by Padina pavonica and Laurenica majuscula, respectively. The in vitro antitumor activity revealed that the IC₅₀ values of Padina pavonica were 58.9, 115.0, 54.5, 59.0, 101.0, 101.0, and 97.6?µg/ml; Laurencia catarinensis were 55.2, 96.8, 104.0, 78.7, 117.0, 217.0, 169.0?µg/ml; and Laurencia. majuscula were 115.0, 221.0, 225.0, 200.0, 338.0, 242.0, and 189.0?µg/ml; respectively against A-549 (Lung carcinoma), Caco-2 (Intestinal carcinoma), HCT-116 (Colon carcinoma), Hela (Cervical carcinoma), HEp-2 (Larynx carcinoma), HepG-2 (Hepatocellular carcinoma), and MCF-7 (Breast carcinoma) cell lines.     

Preparation,characterization, and antibacterial activity of diclofenac-loaded chitosan nanoparticles

Emerging antibiotic resistance necessitates the development of new therapeutic approaches. Many studies have reported the antimicrobial activity of diclofenac sodium (DIC) and chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs). Hence, this study aimed to prepare non-antibiotic DIC-loaded CNPs (DIC.CNPs) and characterize their in vitro antibacterial activity. DIC.CNPs were prepared from low and high molecular weight (LMW and HMW, respectively) chitosan using an ionic gelation method. Prepared NPs were characterized, and their antibacterial activity against gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis was evaluated using the agar diffusion and broth dilution methods. The particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and encapsulation efficiency of the formulated DIC.CNPs increased with increasing MW of chitosan. The prepared NPs showed a narrow size distribution with low PDI values (0.18 and 0.24) and encapsulation efficiency (29.3% and 31.1%) for LMW.DIC.CNPs and HMW.DIC.CNPs, respectively. The in vitro release profile of DIC from the DIC.CNPs was biphasic with a burst release followed by slow release and was influenced by the MW of chitosan. DIC.CNPs exhibited significantly higher antibacterial activity against S. aureus (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC₉₀] _LMW.DIC.CNPs?=?35?µg/mL and MIC_{90 HMW.DIC.CNPs}?=?18?µg/mL) and B. subtilis (MIC_{90 LMW.DIC.CNPs}?=?17.5?µg/mL and MIC_{90 HMW.DIC.CNPs}?=?9?µg/mL) than DIC alone did (MIC_{90 DIC}?=?250 and 50?µg/mL against S. aureus and B. subtilis, respectively). The antibacterial activity was influenced by pH and the MW of chitosan. Collectively, these results may suggest the potential usefulness of DIC.CNPs as non-antibiotic antibacterial agent necessitating further future studies to asses the stability of DIC.CNPs prepared.     

Phytochemical profiling of Salsola tetragona Delile by LC-HR/MS and investigation of the antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,cytotoxic, antibacterial and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities

This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition and biological activity of Salsola tetragona Delile. (Amaranthaceae), a medicinal plant. The study evaluated the antioxidant potential of the crude extract and five fractions of S. tetragona using DPPH^•, ABTS^•+, CUPRAC, and metal chelating assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined using a protein denaturation assay, and the antibacterial activity was determined by the Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus strains. The MTT test and an in vitro scratch assay evaluated the effects on cell viability and cell migration. The potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity was assessed by analyzing the effects on the interaction between ACE2 and Spike protein. The bioactive compounds present in the plant were identified using LC-HR/MS analysis. The crude hydromethanolic extract (STM) and five fractions of S. tetragona, n-hexane (STH), dichloromethane (STD), ethyl acetate (STE), n-butanol (STB), and aqueous (STW) showed significant antioxidant activity in four different tests. In the anti-inflammatory assay, the ethyl acetate fraction exhibited significantly higher activity than Aspirin® (IC₅₀ = 13 ± 5 µg/mL). The crude extract and its fractions showed positive antibacterial activity with similar MICs. In the cytotoxicity assay against the breast cancer cell line MCF7, the dichloromethane fractions (STD) were very effective and demonstrated superiority over the other fractions (IC₅₀ = 98 µg/mL). Moreover, the potential of the extract and fractions as anti-SARS-CoV-2, the ethyl acetate, and dichloromethane fractions demonstrated important activity in this test. LC-HR/MS analysis identified 16 different phenolic compounds, Eleven of which had not been previously reported in the genus Salsola. The results suggest that the extracts of S. tetragona have the potential to become new sources for developing plant-based therapies for managing a range of diseases.     

Activity of pulmonary vancomycin exposures versus planktonic and biofilm isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from cystic fibrosis sputum

Vancomycin is commonly used to treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease. However, there are limited data to support the in vitro activity of this agent against MRSA isolated from CF sputum. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the activity of vancomycin at pulmonary concentrations (intravenous and inhaled) against four clinical MRSA CF sputum isolates in planktonic and biofilm time–kill (TK) experiments. Vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined for these isolates at standard inoculum (SI) (~10⁶ CFU/mL) and high inoculum (HI) (~10⁸ CFU/mL) as well as in biofilms cultivated using physiological medium representing the microenvironment of the CF lung. Vancomycin concentrations of 10, 25, 100 and 275 µg/mL were evaluated in TK experiments against planktonic MRSA at varying inocula and versus biofilm MRSA. Vancomycin MICs increased from 0.5 µg/mL when tested at SI to 8–16 µg/mL at HI. Vancomycin MICs were further increased to 16–32 µg/mL in biofilm studies. In TK experiments, vancomycin displayed bactericidal activity (≥3 log₁₀ killing at 24 h) against 1/4 and 0/4 planktonic MRSA isolates at SI and HI, respectively, whereas vancomycin was bactericidal against 0/4 isolates against MRSA biofilms. Based on these findings, vancomycin monotherapy appears unlikely to eradicate MRSA from the respiratory tract of patients with CF, even at high concentrations similar to those observed with inhaled therapy. Novel vancomycin formulations with enhanced biofilm penetration or combination therapy with other potentially synergistic agents should be explored.     

Vectorization of Harungana madagascariensis Lam. ex Poir. (Hypericaceae) ethanolic leaf extract by using PLG‐nanoparticles: antibacterial activity assessment

This study was undertaken to compare the in vitro and ex vivo antibacterial activity of an ethanolic Harungana madagascariensis leaf extract (HLE) incorporated into poly (D,L ‐lactide‐co–glycolide) nanoparticles (HLE‐PLG‐NP). Two concentrations of HLE (500 and 1,000 µg/mL) for the in vitro study and one concentration (500 µg/mL) for the ex vivo study were compared using two gram‐positive bacterial strains (Micrococcus luteus and Staphylococcus epidermidis), and one gram‐negative bacterial strain (Moraxella sp.). The ex vivo antibacterial activity was evaluated on S. epidermidis CIP 55109 (SE) using an artificial contamination method. SE was inoculated for 12 h onto human skin fragment surfaces treated for 5 min either with HLE loaded, unloaded PLG‐NP, or HLE solution. In vitro, the two preparations inhibited completely the growth of all bacterial strains at 1,000 µg/mL. However, the HLE‐PLG‐NP had a significant antibacterial activity against SE (18.4±1.8–0.4±0.2 CFU/mL, P<0.05), and a marked antibacterial effect against M. luteus (ML) and Moraxella sp. (Msp) compared to HLE solution at 500 µg/mL. Ex vivo, HLE‐PLG‐NP at 500 µg/mL reduced viable bacteria (6.3–4.8 log₁₀), compared to the HLE solution (6.3–5.5 log₁₀) after 4 h artificial contamination (P<0.05). A thin layer chromatography study of both HLE solution and HLE‐PLG‐NP showed that among the seven components found on the chromatogram of the HLE solution, only two were present on the nanoparticles, one including a flavonoid heteroside fraction responsible for the antibacterial properties. The incorporation of the HLE into a colloidal carrier improved antibacterial performance. Drug Dev. Res. 65:26–33, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.     

The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of avicularin and 4-O-methyl gallic acid isolated from Syzygium myrtifolium leaves

Diabetes Mellitus is the main cause of death on a global scale. In 2019, there were 463 million people with diabetes, and WHO predicts that by 2030, there will be 578 million. As an antidiabetic agent, α-glucosidase inhibitors are one of the methods employed to reduce the prevalence of diabetes. Diabetes is traditionally treated with Syzygium as a primary material, medicine, fruit, ornamental plant, and source of carpentry. This investigation aimed to examine the inhibitory effect of seven species of Syzygium against α-glucosidase enzyme using an in vitro assay and isolate active substances and ascertain their concentrations in each sample. As a solvent, ethanol was used in maceration to extract the substance. Afterward, the extract underwent a series of fractionation techniques, including liquid–liquid extraction, vacuum liquid chromatography, column chromatography, and preparative Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) for purification and isolation. The compound's structures were elucidated using TLC, UV–Visible spectrophotometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Based on concentrations of 100 and 200 µg/mL, Syzygium myrtifolium exhibited the most significant inhibitory effect, followed by other species of Syzygium. The proportion of ethyl acetate had the strongest activity (IC₅₀ 0.40 ± 0.02 µg/mL) contrasted to positive control acarbose (IC₅₀ 55.39 ± 0.67 g/mL) and quercitrin (IC₅₀ 6.47 ± 0.40 µg/mL). Avicularin and 4-O-methyl gallic acid were discovered in the ethyl acetate fraction of Syzygium myrtifolium with IC₅₀ values of 17.05 ± 0.75 µg/mL and 25.19 ± 0.21 µg/mL, respectively. As α-glucosidase inhibitory, the results of this study indicate Syzygium myrtifolium can be used as a dietary supplement to manage hyperglycemia.     

Antidiabetic,antioxidant, molecular docking and HPTLC analysis of miquelianin isolated from Euphorbia schimperi C. Presl

The present study demonstrates the miquelianin or quercetin 3-O-glucuronide (compound 1) isolated from aerial parts of Euphorbia schimperi exhibited significant results for antioxidant and antidiabetic potential. The compound 1 along with kaempferol 3-O-glucuronide (compound 2) and quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside (compound 3) isolated from the same source were quantified by validated HPTLC method. Antioxidant activity was determined by chemical means in terms of ABTS radical cation and DPPH radical scavenging activity. Compound 1 showed significant scavenging activity in both ABTS and DPPH assays as compared to standard BHA. In ABTS method IC₅₀ values of compound 1 and standard BHA is found to be 58.90 ± 3.40 µg/mL and 28.70 ± 5.20 µg/mL respectively while in DPPH assay IC₅₀ values of Compound 1 and standard BHA is 47.20 ± 4.90 µg/mL and 34.50 ± 6.20 µg/mL respectively. Antidiabetic effect was studied through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The mechanistic approach through molecular modelling also support the strong binding sites of compound 1 which showed significant α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ values 128.34 ± 12.30 and 89.20 ± 9.20 µg/mL respectively as compared to acarbose 64.20 ± 5.60 and 52.40 ± 4.60 µg/mL respectively. The results of validated RP-HPTLC analyses revealed the concentration of compound 1 found to be 16.39 µg/mg and for compound 2 and compound 3 as 3.92 and 14.98 µg/mg of dried extract, respectively.     

Evaluation of bronchodialatory and antimicrobial activities of Otostegia fruticosa: A multi-mechanistic approach

Otostegia fruticosa, a plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae, is endemic to Ethiopia. In Ethiopian traditional medicine, O. fruticosa has been used for the treatment of several respiratory-related disorders. The present study was designed to evaluate the bronchodilatory and antimicrobial activities of O. fruticosa leaves crude extract (Of.Cr). Ex-vivo experiments were conducted on guinea-pig trachea provided with physiological oxygenated buffer solution using emkaBath setup. The crude extract was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Of.Cr, showed the presence of terpenes, fragrance components, saponins, and higher fatty acids. Of.Cr when tested on contracted tracheal chains with carbamylcholine (CCh, 1 µM) and high K⁺ (80 mM) produced relaxation by showing higher potency against CCh with incomplete inhibition of high K⁺. Dicyclomine, used as a positive control, also showed selectively higher potency to inhibit CCh when compared with its effect against K⁺. In the anticholinergic curves, Of.Cr at 1 mg/mL deflected CCh-induced concentration–response curves (CRCs) competitively to the right like dicyclomine (0.03 µM) and atropine whereas a higher dose of Of.Cr (3 mg/mL) produced a non-parallel shift in the CCh curves like a higher dose of dicyclomine (0.1 µM). In the calcium channel inhibitory assay, Of.Cr at 3 & 5 mg/mL, deflected CRCs of Ca⁺⁺ to the right like verapamil, used as positive control. Of.Cr, at concentrations (1–3 mg/mL) increases cAMP levels in isolated tracheal homogenates, similar to positive control phosphodiesterase inhibitor (papaverine). When tested for antibacterial activity against standard and clinical strains, Of.Cr was found more active (MIC 475 µg/ml) against S. aureus (NCTC 6571), while the maximum inhibition (MIC 625 µg/ml) was observed by the extract when tested against MRSA. These results determine the mechanistic pathways of the observed bronchodilatory effect of Otostegia fruticosa with a combination of anticholinergic and dual inhibition of phosphodiesterase and voltage-gated Ca⁺⁺ channels.     

Withaferin A protects against spinal cord injury by inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation in mice

Context: Withaferin A (WFA) exhibits diverse pharmaceutical applications on human diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, cancers and microbial infection.

Objective: We evaluated the neuroprotective role of WFA using a mouse model of spinal cord injury (SCI).

Materials and methods: BALB/c mice were administrated 10?mg/kg of WFA. Gene expression was measured by real-time PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. Cell morphology and apoptosis were determined by H&;E staining and TUNEL assay. Motor function was evaluated by the BBB functional scale for continuous 7 weeks.

Results: WFA significantly improved neurobehavioural function and alleviated histological alteration of spinal cord tissues in traumatized mice. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) significantly increased in WFA-treated mice. Meanwhile, the expression of Nogo-A and RhoA remarkably decreased in the presence of WFA. Furthermore, the apoptotic cell death was attenuated in mice treated with WFA (31.48?±?2.50% vs. 50.08?±?2.08%) accompanied by decreased bax and increased bcl-2. In addition, WFA decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β (11.20?±?1.96?ng/mL vs. 17.59?±?1.42?ng/mL) and TNF-α (57.38?±?3.57?pg/mL vs. 95.06?±?9.13?pg/mL). The anti-inflammatory cytokines including TGF-β1 (14.32?±?1.04?pg/mL vs. 9.37?±?1.17?pg/mL) and IL-10 (116.80?±?6.91?pg/mL vs. 72.33?±?9.35?pg/mL) were elevated after WFA administration.

Discussion and conclusion: This study demonstrated that WFA has a neuroprotective role by inhibition of apoptosis and inflammation after SCI in mice.     

鼻前庭囊肿的三种手术方式疗效分析

目的 比较鼻前庭囊肿的三种手术方式的临床治疗效果.方法 回顾分析2012年8月至2018年8月成都市第七人民医院83例鼻前庭囊肿病人,根据手术方式分为唇龈沟摘除组(23例)、鼻内镜揭盖组(31例)和等离子消融组(29例),比较三种手术的手术指征及临床疗效.结果 鼻内镜揭盖组和等离子消融组在手术时间[(21.5±2.3)...     

Synergistic effect of artocarpin on antibacterial activity of some antibiotics against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,and Escherichia coli

Context: Antibacterial resistance has dramatically increased and resulted in serious health problems worldwide. One appealing strategy to overcome this resistance problem is the use of combinations of antibacterial compounds to increase their potency.

Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the synergistic effects of artocarpin for ampicillin, norfloxacin, and tetracycline against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) as well as the Gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli.

Materials and methods: A broth microdilution method (1.95–250?µg/mL) was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of artocarpin and the antibiotics. Any synergistic effects were evaluated at their own MIC using the checkerboard method and a time-kill assay at 37?°C for 24?h.

Results and discussion: Artocarpin showed antibacterial activity against MRSA and E. coli with an MIC value of 62.5?µg/mL, and against P. aeruginosa with an MIC value of 250?µg/mL. The interaction of artocarpin with all tested antibiotics produced synergistic effects against MRSA with a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) of 0.15–0.37. In addition, a combination of artocarpin and norfloxacin showed a synergistic effect against E. coli with an FICI value of 0.37, while the combinations of artocarpin and tetracycline as well as artocarpin and norfloxacin exhibited synergy interactions against P. aeruginosa with FICI values of 0.24 and 0.37, respectively. Time-kill assays indicated that artocarpin enhanced the antimicrobial activities of tetracycline, ampicillin, and norfloxacin against MRSA as well as Gram-negative bacteria.     

截短侧耳素衍生物ZYY-12h对MRSA菌株的抑菌作用及作用机制研究

摘要：目的 探究截短侧耳素衍生物ZYY-12h对耐甲氧西林金黄色葡萄球菌(MRSA)的抑菌效果及作用机制。方法 采用抑菌圈法和微量肉汤稀释法测定MRSA菌株对ZYY-12h的敏感性，在此基础上绘制时间-杀菌曲线；再测量经ZYY-12h处理后的MRSA细菌悬液A260、通过SDS-PAGE电泳观察细菌可溶性蛋白的含量变化和扫描电子显微镜(SEM)观察细菌的形态结构变化来探究其抑菌机制。结果 ZYY-12h对MRSA菌株有较强的抑菌活性，其最小抑菌浓度(MIC)为0.125 mg/mL，最小杀菌浓度(MBC)为0.5 mg/mL；经ZYY-12h处理后细菌细胞膜的通透性明显变大，菌体可溶性蛋白含量明显减少，且细菌的外部超微形态结构发生改变。结论 截短侧耳素衍生物ZYY-12h对MRSA菌株有明显的抑制作用，且在高浓度下有杀菌作用，其作用机制与改变细菌的膜通透性和抑制细菌蛋白质合成有关。