Next Issue
Volume 17, July
Previous Issue
Volume 17, May
 
 
molecules-logo

Journal Browser

Journal Browser

Molecules, Volume 17, Issue 6 (June 2012) – 97 articles , Pages 6179-7611

  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Section
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
1460 KiB  
Article
Down Regulation of CIAPIN1 Reverses Multidrug Resistance in Human Breast Cancer Cells by Inhibiting MDR1
by Dan Lu, Zhibo Xiao, Wenxiu Wang, Yuqing Xu, Shujian Gao, Lili Deng, Wen He, Yu Yang, Xiaofei Guo and Xuemei Wang
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7595-7611; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067595 - 20 Jun 2012
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5732
Abstract
Cytokine-induced apoptosis inhibitor 1 (CIAPIN1), initially named anamorsin, a newly indentified antiapoptotic molecule is a downstream effector of the receptor tyrosine kinase-Ras signaling pathway. Current study has revealed that CIAPIN1 may have wide and important functions, especially due to its close correlations with [...] Read more.
Cytokine-induced apoptosis inhibitor 1 (CIAPIN1), initially named anamorsin, a newly indentified antiapoptotic molecule is a downstream effector of the receptor tyrosine kinase-Ras signaling pathway. Current study has revealed that CIAPIN1 may have wide and important functions, especially due to its close correlations with malignant tumors. However whether or not it is involved in the multi-drug resistance (MDR) process of breast cancer has not been elucidated. To explore the effect of CIAPIN1 on MDR, we examined the expression of P-gp and CIAPIN1 by immunohistochemistry and found there was positive correlation between them. Then we successfully interfered with RNA translation by the infection of siRNA of CIAPIN1 into MCF7/ADM breast cancer cell lines through a lentivirus, and the expression of the target gene was significantly inhibited. After RNAi the drug resistance was reduced significantly and the expression of MDR1mRNA and P-gp in MCF7/ADM cell lines showed a significant decrease. Also the expression of P53 protein increased in a statistically significant way (p ≤ 0.01) after RNAi exposure. In addition, flow cytometry analysis reveals that cell cycle and anti-apoptotic enhancing capability of cells changed after RNAi treatment. These results suggested CIAPIN1 may participate in breast cancer MDR by regulating MDR1 and P53 expression, changing cell cycle and enhancing the anti-apoptotic capability of cells. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

282 KiB  
Article
Effect of Acid and Base Catalyzed Hydrolysis on the Yield of Phenolics and Antioxidant Activity of Extracts from Germinated Brown Rice (GBR)
by Ismaila Muhammad Sani, Shahid Iqbal, Kim Wei Chan and Maznah Ismail
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7584-7594; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067584 - 19 Jun 2012
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 6790
Abstract
The influence of both acidic and basic hydrolysis on the yield, total phenolic content and antioxidative capacity of methanolic extract of germinated brown rice (GBR) was studied. Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical [...] Read more.
The influence of both acidic and basic hydrolysis on the yield, total phenolic content and antioxidative capacity of methanolic extract of germinated brown rice (GBR) was studied. Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical cation scavenging, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) tests were used for the measurement of antioxidant ability. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the TPC and DPPH radical scavenging assay results when comparing neutral with acidic and basic catalysed hydrolysis. The yield of the crude extract was slightly higher in acidic hydrolysis than in basic hydrolysis (p > 0.05). The TPC and TFC were highest in acidic hydrolysis. A significant correlation was observed between ABTS radical cation scavenging and FRAP. The antioxidant activity measured using DPPH radical scavenging assay showed high activity in acidic hydrolysis, while the ABTS radical cationscavenging activity and FRAP showed the highest values in basic hydrolysis. The samples were further evaluated using HPLC to determine the individual phenolic concentrations in different hydrolytic media contributing to the antioxidant effects. This study revealed that acidic and basic hydrolysis can improve the yield, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity of germinated brown rice. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

365 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Main-Chain Chiral Quaternary Ammonium Polymers for Asymmetric Catalysis Using Quaternization Polymerization
by Naoki Haraguchi, Parbhej Ahamed, Md. Masud Parvez and Shinichi Itsuno
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7569-7583; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067569 - 19 Jun 2012
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7241
Abstract
Main-chain chiral quaternary ammonium polymers were successfully synthesized by the quaternization polymerization of cinchonidine dimer with dihalides. The polymerization occurred smoothly under optimized conditions to give novel type of main-chain chiral quaternary ammonium polymers. The catalytic activity of the polymeric chiral organocatalysts was [...] Read more.
Main-chain chiral quaternary ammonium polymers were successfully synthesized by the quaternization polymerization of cinchonidine dimer with dihalides. The polymerization occurred smoothly under optimized conditions to give novel type of main-chain chiral quaternary ammonium polymers. The catalytic activity of the polymeric chiral organocatalysts was investigated on the asymmetric benzylation of N-(diphenylmethylidene)glycine tert-butyl ester. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Asymmetric Catalysis)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

335 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Furozan-Based Nitric Oxide-Releasing Derivatives of Oridonin as Potential Anti-Tumor Agents
by Dahong Li, Lei Wang, Hao Cai, Yihua Zhang and Jinyi Xu
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7556-7568; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067556 - 18 Jun 2012
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6726
Abstract
To search for novel nitric oxide (NO) releasing anti-tumor agents, a series of novel furoxan/oridonin hybrids were designed and synthesized. Firstly, the nitrate/nitrite levels in the cell lysates were tested by a Griess assay and the results showed that these furoxan-based NO-releasing derivatives [...] Read more.
To search for novel nitric oxide (NO) releasing anti-tumor agents, a series of novel furoxan/oridonin hybrids were designed and synthesized. Firstly, the nitrate/nitrite levels in the cell lysates were tested by a Griess assay and the results showed that these furoxan-based NO-releasing derivatives could produce high levels of NO in vitro. Then the anti-proliferative activity of these hybrids against four human cancer cell lines was also determined, among which, 9h exhibited the most potential anti-tumor activity with IC50 values of 1.82 µM against K562, 1.81 µM against MGC-803 and 0.86 µM against Bel-7402, respectively. Preliminary structure-activity relationship was concluded based on the experimental data obtained. These results suggested that NO-donor/natural product hybrids may provide a promising approach for the discovery of novel anti-tumor agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Bioactive Compounds)
Show Figures

Figure 1

287 KiB  
Article
Design, Synthesis and Antiviral Potential of 14-Aryl/Heteroaryl-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes Using an Efficient Polymer-Supported Catalyst
by Kalla Reddi Mohan Naidu, Balam Satheesh Krishna, Mungara Anil Kumar, Palanisamy Arulselvan, Shaik Ibrahim Khalivulla and Ola Lasekan
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7543-7555; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067543 - 18 Jun 2012
Cited by 79 | Viewed by 6520
Abstract
Polyethyleneglycol bound sulfonic acid (PEG-OSO3H), a chlorosulphonic acid-modified polyethylene glycol was successfully used as an efficient and eco-friendly polymeric catalyst in the synthesis of 14-aryl/heteroaryl-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes obtained from the reaction of 2-naphthol and carbonyl compounds under solvent-free conditions [...] Read more.
Polyethyleneglycol bound sulfonic acid (PEG-OSO3H), a chlorosulphonic acid-modified polyethylene glycol was successfully used as an efficient and eco-friendly polymeric catalyst in the synthesis of 14-aryl/heteroaryl-14H-dibenzo[a,j]xanthenes obtained from the reaction of 2-naphthol and carbonyl compounds under solvent-free conditions with short reaction times and excellent yields. The biological properties of these synthesized title compounds revealed that compounds 3b, 3c, 3f and 3i showed highly significant anti-viral activity against tobacco mosaic virus. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

180 KiB  
Article
The Joint Action of Destruxins and Botanical Insecticides (Rotenone, Azadirachtin and Paeonolum) Against the Cotton Aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover
by Fei Yi, Chunhua Zou, Qiongbo Hu and Meiying Hu
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7533-7542; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067533 - 18 Jun 2012
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5333
Abstract
The joint action of destruxins and three botanical insecticides, rotenone (Rot), azadirachtin (Aza) and paeonolum (Pae) against the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, was bioassayed. In laboratory experiment, several synergistic groups of destruxins with botanical insecticides were found by means of Sun’s Co-toxicity [...] Read more.
The joint action of destruxins and three botanical insecticides, rotenone (Rot), azadirachtin (Aza) and paeonolum (Pae) against the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, was bioassayed. In laboratory experiment, several synergistic groups of destruxins with botanical insecticides were found by means of Sun’s Co-toxicity Coefficients (CTC) and Finney’s Synergistic Coefficient (SC). The best synergistic effect was discovered in the ratio group Des/Rot 1/9 with the CTC or SC and LC50 values of 479.93 or 4.8 and 0.06 μg/mL, respectively. The second and third synergistic effects were recorded in the ratio groups Des/Rot 7/3 and 9/1. Although the ratio groups Des/Aza 6/4, Des/Pae 4/6, 3/7 and 2/8 indicated synergism by Sun’s CTC, they were determined as additive actions by Finney’s SC. Additive actions were also found in most of the ratio groups, but antagonism were recorded only in three ratio groups: Des/Pae 9/1, 7/3 and 6/4. In greenhouse tests, the highest mortality was 98.9% with the treatment Des/Rot 1/9 at 0.60 μg/mL, meanwhile, the treatments Des/Pae 4/6 and Des/Aza 6/4 had approximately 88% mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
234 KiB  
Communication
Enantioselective Michael Addition of 3-Aryl-Substituted Oxindoles to Methyl Vinyl Ketone Catalyzed by a Binaphthyl-Modified Bifunctional Organocatalyst
by Hyun Joo Lee, Saet Byeol Woo and Dae Young Kim
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7523-7532; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067523 - 18 Jun 2012
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6060
Abstract
The enantioselective conjugate addition reaction of 3-aryl-substituted oxindoles with methyl vinyl ketone promoted by binaphthyl-modified bifunctional organocatalysts was investigated. The corresponding Michael adducts, containing a quaternary center at the C3-position of the oxindoles, were generally obtained in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities (up [...] Read more.
The enantioselective conjugate addition reaction of 3-aryl-substituted oxindoles with methyl vinyl ketone promoted by binaphthyl-modified bifunctional organocatalysts was investigated. The corresponding Michael adducts, containing a quaternary center at the C3-position of the oxindoles, were generally obtained in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 91% ee). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Asymmetric Catalysis)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

1009 KiB  
Article
Guanidine Affects Differentially the Twitch Response of Diaphragm, Extensor Digitorum Longus and Soleus Nerve-Muscle Preparations of Mice
by Rosana Ferrari, Léa Rodrigues-Simioni and Maria Alice Da Cruz Höfling
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7503-7522; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067503 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 264 | Viewed by 4960
Abstract
Guanidine has been used with some success to treat myasthenia gravis and myasthenic syndrome because it increases acetylcholine release at nerve terminals through K+, Na+ and Ca2+ channels-involving mechanisms. Currently, guanidine derivatives have been proposed for treatment of several [...] Read more.
Guanidine has been used with some success to treat myasthenia gravis and myasthenic syndrome because it increases acetylcholine release at nerve terminals through K+, Na+ and Ca2+ channels-involving mechanisms. Currently, guanidine derivatives have been proposed for treatment of several diseases. Studies aimed at providing new insights to the drug are relevant. Experimentally, guanidine (10 mM) induces on mouse phrenic nerve-diaphragm (PND) preparations neurotransmission facilitation followed by blockade and a greatest secondary facilitation after its removal from bath. Herein, we hypothesized that this peculiar triphasic response may differ in muscles with distinct twitch/metabolic characteristics. Morphological alterations and contractile response of PND, extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus (SOL) preparations incubated with guanidine (10 mM) for 15, 30, 60 min were analyzed. Guanidine concentrations of 5 mM (for PND and EDL) and 1 mM (for EDL) were also tested. Guanidine triphasic effect was only observed on PND regardless the concentration. The morphological alterations in muscle tissue varied along time but did not impede the PND post-wash facilitation. Higher doses (20–25 mM) did not increase EDL or SOL neurotransmission. The data suggest a complex mechanism likely dependent on the metabolic/contractile muscle phenotype; muscle fiber types and density/type of ion channels, sarcoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria organization may have profound impact on the levels and isoform expression pattern of Ca2+ regulatory membrane proteins so reflecting regulation of calcium handling and contractile response in different types of muscle. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

1121 KiB  
Review
Ionic Liquids — Promising but Challenging Solvents for Homogeneous Derivatization of Cellulose
by Martin Gericke, Pedro Fardim and Thomas Heinze
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7458-7502; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067458 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 287 | Viewed by 14826
Abstract
In the past decade, ionic liquids (ILs) have received enormous interest as solvents for cellulose. They have been studied intensively for fractionation and biorefining of lignocellulosic biomass, for dissolution of the polysaccharide, for preparation of cellulosic fibers, and in particular as reaction media [...] Read more.
In the past decade, ionic liquids (ILs) have received enormous interest as solvents for cellulose. They have been studied intensively for fractionation and biorefining of lignocellulosic biomass, for dissolution of the polysaccharide, for preparation of cellulosic fibers, and in particular as reaction media for the homogeneous preparation of highly engineered polysaccharide derivatives. ILs show great potential for application on a commercial scale regarding recyclability, high dissolution power, and their broad structural diversity. However, a critical analysis reveals that these promising features are combined with serious drawbacks that need to be addressed in order to utilize ILs for the efficient synthesis of cellulose derivatives. This review presents a comprehensive overview about chemical modification of cellulose in ILs. Difficulties encountered thereby are discussed critically and current as well as future developments in this field of polysaccharide research are outlined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Ionic Liquids)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

966 KiB  
Short Note
An Oxidized Squalene Derivative from Protium subserratum Engl. (Engl.) Growing in Peru
by John Lokvam and Paul V. A. Fine
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7451-7457; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067451 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4308
Abstract
Protium subserratum (Burseraceae) is a neotropical tree species that is comprised of several habitat-specific ecotypes having distinct defense chemical profiles. A previously unknown triterpene, 25,30-dicarboxy-26,27,28,29-tetraacetoxy-10,11,14,15-tetrahydrosqualene, was isolated from P. subserratum young leaf tissue of one ecotype growing in Peru. The structure of 1 [...] Read more.
Protium subserratum (Burseraceae) is a neotropical tree species that is comprised of several habitat-specific ecotypes having distinct defense chemical profiles. A previously unknown triterpene, 25,30-dicarboxy-26,27,28,29-tetraacetoxy-10,11,14,15-tetrahydrosqualene, was isolated from P. subserratum young leaf tissue of one ecotype growing in Peru. The structure of 1 was determined by spectroscopic study, including 1 and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

174 KiB  
Article
NIR Spectroscopic Properties of Aqueous Acids Solutions
by Ahmad Fairuz Omar, Hanafi Atan and Mohd Zubir MatJafri
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7440-7450; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067440 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5668
Abstract
Acid content is one of the important quality attributes in determining the maturity index of agricultural product, particularly fruits. Despite the fact that much research on the measurement of acidity in fruits through non-destructive spectroscopy analysis at NIR wavelengths between 700 to 1,000 [...] Read more.
Acid content is one of the important quality attributes in determining the maturity index of agricultural product, particularly fruits. Despite the fact that much research on the measurement of acidity in fruits through non-destructive spectroscopy analysis at NIR wavelengths between 700 to 1,000 nm has been conducted, the same response towards individual acids is not well known. This paper presents NIR spectroscopy analysis on aqueous citric, tartaric, malic and oxalic solutions through quantitative analysis by selecting a set of wavelengths that can best be used to measure the pH of the solutions. The aquaphotomics study of the acid solutions has generated R2 above 0.9 for the measurement of all acids. The most important wavelengths for pH are located at 918–925 nm and 990–996 nm, while at 975 nm for water. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

753 KiB  
Article
Application of 4D-QSAR Studies to a Series of Raloxifene Analogs and Design of Potential Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators
by Ana Carolina Rennó Sodero, Nelilma Correia Romeiro, Elaine Fontes Ferreira Da Cunha, Uiaran De Oliveira Magalhães, Ricardo Bicca De Alencastro, Carlos Rangel Rodrigues, Lúcio Mendes Cabral, Helena Carla Castro and Magaly Girão Albuquerque
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7415-7439; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067415 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5585
Abstract
Four-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (4D-QSAR) analysis was applied on a series of 54 2-arylbenzothiophene derivatives, synthesized by Grese and coworkers, based on raloxifene (an estrogen receptor-alpha antagonist), and evaluated as ERa ligands and as inhibitors of estrogen-stimulated proliferation of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. [...] Read more.
Four-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (4D-QSAR) analysis was applied on a series of 54 2-arylbenzothiophene derivatives, synthesized by Grese and coworkers, based on raloxifene (an estrogen receptor-alpha antagonist), and evaluated as ERa ligands and as inhibitors of estrogen-stimulated proliferation of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The conformations of each analogue, sampled from a molecular dynamics simulation, were placed in a grid cell lattice according to three trial alignments, considering two grid cell sizes (1.0 and 2.0 Å). The QSAR equations, generated by a combined scheme of genetic algorithms (GA) and partial least squares (PLS) regression, were evaluated by “leave-one-out” cross-validation, using a training set of 41 compounds. External validation was performed using a test set of 13 compounds. The obtained 4D-QSAR models are in agreement with the proposed mechanism of action for raloxifene. This study allowed a quantitative prediction of compounds’ potency and supported the design of new raloxifene analogs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue QSAR and Its Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

326 KiB  
Article
A Monoclonal Antibody-Based ELISA for Multiresidue Determination of Avermectins in Milk
by Chunmei Wang, Zhanhui Wang, Wenxiao Jiang, Tiejun Mi and Jianzhong Shen
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7401-7414; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067401 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5248
Abstract
Due to the widespread use and potential toxicity of avermectins (AVMs), multi-residue monitoring of AVMs in edible tissues, especially in milk, has become increasingly important. With the aim of developing a broad-selective immunoassay for AVMs, a broad-specific monoclonal antibody (Mab) was raised. Based [...] Read more.
Due to the widespread use and potential toxicity of avermectins (AVMs), multi-residue monitoring of AVMs in edible tissues, especially in milk, has become increasingly important. With the aim of developing a broad-selective immunoassay for AVMs, a broad-specific monoclonal antibody (Mab) was raised. Based on this Mab, a homologous indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the rapid detection of AVMs in milk was developed. Under the optimized conditions, the IC50 values in assay buffer were estimated to be 3.05 ng/mL for abamectin, 13.10 ng/mL for ivermectin, 38.96 ng/mL for eprinomectin, 61.00 ng/mL for doramectin, 14.38 ng/mL for emamectin benzoate. Detection capability (CCβ) of the ELISA was less than 5 ng/mL and 2 ng/mL in milk samples prepared by simple dilution and solvent extraction, respectively. The optimized ELISA was used to quantify AVMs in milk samples spiked at different amounts. The mean recovery and coefficient of variation (CV) were 95.90% and 15.42%, respectively. The Mab-based ELISA achieved a great improvement in AVMs detection. Results proved this broad-selective ELISA would be useful for the multi-residue determination of AVMs in milk without purification process. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

1005 KiB  
Article
Application of 2,3-Naphthalenediamine in Labeling Natural Carbohydrates for Capillary Electrophoresis
by Chien-Yuan Kuo, Shwu-Huey Wang, Chunchi Lin, Sylvain Kuo-Shiang Liao, Wei-Ting Hung, Jim-Min Fang and Wen-Bin Yang
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7387-7400; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067387 - 15 Jun 2012
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5326
Abstract
Neutral and acidic monosaccharide components in Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide are readily labeled with 2,3-naphthalenediamine, and the resulting saccharide-naphthimidazole (NAIM) derivatives are quantified by capillary electrophoresis (CE) in borate buffer. Using sulfated-α-cyclodextrin as the chiral selector, enantiomers of monosaccharide-NAIMs are resolved on CE in [...] Read more.
Neutral and acidic monosaccharide components in Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide are readily labeled with 2,3-naphthalenediamine, and the resulting saccharide-naphthimidazole (NAIM) derivatives are quantified by capillary electrophoresis (CE) in borate buffer. Using sulfated-α-cyclodextrin as the chiral selector, enantiomers of monosaccharide-NAIMs are resolved on CE in phosphate buffer, allowing a simultaneous determination of the absolute configuration and sugar composition in the mucilage polysaccharide of a medicinal herb Dendrobium huoshanense. Together with the specific enzymatic reactions of various glycoside hydrolases on the NAIM derivatives of glycans, the structures of natural glycans can be deduced from the digestion products identified by CE analysis. Though heparin dissachrides could be successfully derived with the NAIM-labeling method, the heparin derivatives with the same degree of sulfation could not be separated by CE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

178 KiB  
Communication
Substituted Benzamides Containing Azaspiro Rings as Upregulators of Apolipoprotein A-I Transcription
by Yu Du, Yuan Yang, Wei Jiang, Li Wang, Xiao-Jian Jia, Shu-Yi Si, Xiao-Fang Chen and Bin Hong
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7379-7386; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067379 - 14 Jun 2012
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4567
Abstract
Apolipoprotein A-I (Apo A-I) is the principal protein component of high density lipoprotein (HDL), which is generally considered as a potential therapeutic target against atherosclerosis. The understanding of the Apo A-I regulation mechanism has fuelled the development of novel HDL targeted therapeutic approaches. [...] Read more.
Apolipoprotein A-I (Apo A-I) is the principal protein component of high density lipoprotein (HDL), which is generally considered as a potential therapeutic target against atherosclerosis. The understanding of the Apo A-I regulation mechanism has fuelled the development of novel HDL targeted therapeutic approaches. To identify novel agents that can upregulate Apo A-I expression, we performed a cell-based reporter assay to screen 25,600 small molecules. Based on the dataset obtained from screening, a series of novel analogs of substituted benzamides containing azaspiro rings were assessed for their ability to induce the transcription of the Apo A-I gene, and the structure-activity relationship (SAR) around these analogs was also proposed. The results indicated that the trifluoromethyl substituted benzamide containing an azaspiro ring is a promising backbone for designing Apo A-I transcriptional upregulator and could be viable leads for development of new drugs to prevent and treat atherosclerosis in the future. Full article
606 KiB  
Article
A New Method for Production of Chiral 2-Aryl-2-fluoropropanoic Acids Using an Effective Kinetic Resolution of Racemic 2-Aryl-2-fluoropropanoic Acids
by Atsushi Tengeiji and Isamu Shiina
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7356-7378; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067356 - 14 Jun 2012
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6414
Abstract
We report a new method for the preparation of chiral 2-aryl-2-fluoropropanoic acids, including 2-fluoroibuprofen, a fluorinated analogue of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), by the kinetic resolution of racemic 2-aryl-2-fluoropropanoic acids using enantioselective esterification. By applying pivalic anhydride (Piv2O) as a coupling [...] Read more.
We report a new method for the preparation of chiral 2-aryl-2-fluoropropanoic acids, including 2-fluoroibuprofen, a fluorinated analogue of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), by the kinetic resolution of racemic 2-aryl-2-fluoropropanoic acids using enantioselective esterification. By applying pivalic anhydride (Piv2O) as a coupling agent, bis(α-naphthyl)methanol [(α-Np)2CHOH] as an achiral alcohol, and (+)-benzotetramisole (BTM) as a chiral acyl-transfer catalyst, a series of racemic 2-aryl-2-fluoropropanoic acids were kinetically separated to afford the optically active carboxylic acids and the corresponding esters with good to high enantiomeric excesses. This technology can provide a convenient approach to furnish the chiral α-fluorinated drugs containing quaternary carbons at the α-positions in the 2-aryl-2-fluoropropanoic acid structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Asymmetric Catalysis)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

198 KiB  
Article
Ring-Expansion Reaction of Oximes with Aluminum Reductants
by Hidetsura Cho, Yusuke Iwama, Nakako Mitsuhashi, Kenji Sugimoto, Kentaro Okano and Hidetoshi Tokuyama
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7348-7355; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067348 - 14 Jun 2012
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6570
Abstract
The ring-expansion reactions of heterocyclic ketoximes and carbocyclic ketoximes with several reductants such as AlHCl2, AlH3 (alane), LiAlH4, LiAlH(OtBu)3, and (MeOCH2CH2O)2AlH2Na (Red-Al) were examined. Among reductants, [...] Read more.
The ring-expansion reactions of heterocyclic ketoximes and carbocyclic ketoximes with several reductants such as AlHCl2, AlH3 (alane), LiAlH4, LiAlH(OtBu)3, and (MeOCH2CH2O)2AlH2Na (Red-Al) were examined. Among reductants, AlHCl2 (LiAlH4:AlCl3 = 1:3) in cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME) has been found to be a suitable reagent for the reaction, and the rearranged cyclic secondary amines were obtained in good to excellent yields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterocycles)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

410 KiB  
Article
Isolation and Partial Characterization of an Antifungal Protein Produced by Bacillus licheniformis BS-3
by Tang-Bing Cui, Hai-Yun Chai and Li-Xiang Jiang
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7336-7347; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067336 - 14 Jun 2012
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 6002
Abstract
An antifungal protein produced by Bacillus licheniformis strain BS-3 was purified to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation, DEAE-52 column chromatography and Sephadex G-75 column chromatography. The purified protein was designated as F2 protein, inhibited the growth of Aspergillus niger, Magnaporthe oryzae and [...] Read more.
An antifungal protein produced by Bacillus licheniformis strain BS-3 was purified to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation, DEAE-52 column chromatography and Sephadex G-75 column chromatography. The purified protein was designated as F2 protein, inhibited the growth of Aspergillus niger, Magnaporthe oryzae and Rhizoctonia solani. F2 protein was a monomer with approximately molecular weight of 31 kDa in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gave a single peak on High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Using Rhizoctonia solani as the indicator strain, the EC50 of F2 protein was 35.82 µg/mL, displaying a higher antifungal activity in a range of pH 6.0 to pH 10.0, and at a temperature below 70 °C for 30 min. F2 protein was moderately resistant to hydrolysis by trypsin, proteinase K, after which its relative activities were 41.7% and 59.5%, respectively. F2 protein was assayed using various substrates to determine the enzymatic activities, the results showed the hydrolyzing activity on casein, however, no enzymatic activities on colloidal chitin, CM-cellulose, xylan, M. lysodeikticus, and p-nitrophenyl-N-acetylglucosaminide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

388 KiB  
Article
Optimizing the Extraction of Anti-tumor Polysaccharides from the Fruit of Capparis spionosa L. by Response Surface Methodology
by Yu-Bin Ji, Fang Dong, Dong-Bin Ma, Jing Miao, Li-Na Jin, Zhen-Feng Liu and Ling-Wen Zhang
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7323-7335; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067323 - 14 Jun 2012
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5548
Abstract
Capparis spionosa L. is a traditional medicinal plant in China and central Asia. In this study, an experiment was designed to investigate the optimization of the extraction of anti-tumor polysaccharides from the fruit of Capparis spionosa L. (CSPS) by response surface methodology (RSM). [...] Read more.
Capparis spionosa L. is a traditional medicinal plant in China and central Asia. In this study, an experiment was designed to investigate the optimization of the extraction of anti-tumor polysaccharides from the fruit of Capparis spionosa L. (CSPS) by response surface methodology (RSM). Four independent variables (extraction temperature, extraction time, ratio of water to sample and extraction cycles) were explored. Meanwhile, the in vivo anti-tumor activity of CSPS was investigated. The results showed that the experimental data could be fitted to a second-order polynomial equation using multiple regression analysis. The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: extraction temperature 92 °C, extraction time 140 min, ratio of water to sample 26 mL/g, and three extraction cycle. Under these conditions, the yield of polysaccharides reached 13.01%, which was comparable to the predicted yield (12.94%, p > 0.05). This indicated that the model was adequate for the extraction process. Additionally, CSPS could prolong the survival time of H22 bearing mice in vivo. The anti-tumor activities of CSPS were dose-dependent. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

245 KiB  
Article
Impact of Soil Field Water Capacity on Secondary Metabolites, Phenylalanine Ammonia-lyase (PAL), Maliondialdehyde (MDA) and Photosynthetic Responses of Malaysian Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila Benth)
by Hawa Z. E. Jaafar, Mohd Hafiz Ibrahim and Nur Farhana Mohamad Fakri
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7305-7322; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067305 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 108 | Viewed by 7195
Abstract
A randomized complete block design 2 × 4 experiment was designed and conducted for 15 weeks to characterize the relationships between production of total phenolics, flavonoid, anthocyanin, leaf gas exchange, total chlorophyll, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) activity in two varieties of [...] Read more.
A randomized complete block design 2 × 4 experiment was designed and conducted for 15 weeks to characterize the relationships between production of total phenolics, flavonoid, anthocyanin, leaf gas exchange, total chlorophyll, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) activity in two varieties of Labisia pumila Benth, namely the var. alata and pumila, under four levels of evapotranspiration replacement (ER) (100%; well watered), (75%, moderate water stress), (50%; high water stress) and (25%; severe water stress). The production of total phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanin, soluble sugar and relative leaf water content was affected by the interaction between varieties and SWC. As the ER levels decreased from 100% to 25%, the production of PAL and MDA activity increased steadily. At the highest (100%) ER L. pumila exhibited significantly higher net photosynthesis, apparent quantum yield, maximum efficiency of photosystem II (fv/fm) and lower dark respiration rates compared to the other treatment. The production of total phenolics, flavonoids and anthocyanin was also found to be higher under high water stress (50% ER replacement) compared to severe water stress (25% ER). From this study, it was observed that as net photosynthesis, apparent quantum yield and chlorophyll content were downregulated under high water stress the production of total phenolics, flavonoids and anthocyanin were upregulated implying that the imposition of high water stress can enhance the medicinal properties of L. pumila Benth. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

283 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Activity of Various Parts of Cinnamomum cassia Extracted with Different Extraction Methods
by Cheng-Hong Yang, Rong-Xian Li and Li-Yeh Chuang
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7294-7304; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067294 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 102 | Viewed by 9963
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant activities of various parts (barks, buds, and leaves) of Cinnamomum cassia extracted with ethanol and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). For the antioxidant activity comparison, IC50 values of the SFE and ethanol extracts [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant activities of various parts (barks, buds, and leaves) of Cinnamomum cassia extracted with ethanol and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). For the antioxidant activity comparison, IC50 values of the SFE and ethanol extracts in the DPPH scavenging assay were 0.562–10.090 mg/mL and 0.072–0.208 mg/mL, and the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values were 6.789–58.335 mmole Trolox/g and 133.039–335.779 mmole Trolox/g, respectively. In addition, the total flavonoid contents were 0.031–1.916 g/ 100 g dry weight of materials (DW) and 2.030–3.348 g/ 100 g DW, and the total phenolic contents were 0.151–2.018 g/ 100 g DW and 6.313–9.534 g/ 100 g DW in the SFE and ethanol extracts, respectively. Based on the results, the ethanol extracts of Cinnamon barks have potential value as an antioxidant substitute and this study also provide a better technique to extract the natural antioxidant substances from C. cassia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

200 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial, Antifungal and Cytotoxic Activities of Two Flavonoids from Retama raetam Flowers
by Hayet Edziri, Maha Mastouri, Mohamed Ali Mahjoub, Zine Mighri, Aouni Mahjoub and Luc Verschaeve
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7284-7293; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067284 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 92 | Viewed by 7517
Abstract
We have investigated the antibacterial, antifungal and cytotoxic activities of two flavonoids isolated from Retama raetam flowers using the disc diffusion and micro-dilution broth methods. The cytotoxic activity was tested against Hep-2 cells using the MTT assay. The compounds licoflavone C (1 [...] Read more.
We have investigated the antibacterial, antifungal and cytotoxic activities of two flavonoids isolated from Retama raetam flowers using the disc diffusion and micro-dilution broth methods. The cytotoxic activity was tested against Hep-2 cells using the MTT assay. The compounds licoflavone C (1) and derrone (2) were active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli (7.81–15.62 µg/mL) and showed important antifungal activity. Strong antifungal activity against Candida species (7.81 µg/mL) was for example found with compound 2. The tested compounds also showed strong cytotoxicity against Hep-2 cells. These two compounds may be interesting antimicrobial agents to be used against infectious diseases caused by many pathogens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

482 KiB  
Review
Hypervalent Nonbonded Interactions of a Divalent Sulfur Atom. Implications in Protein Architecture and the Functions
by Michio Iwaoka and Noriyoshi Isozumi
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7266-7283; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067266 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 117 | Viewed by 7813
Abstract
In organic molecules a divalent sulfur atom sometimes adopts weak coordination to a proximate heteroatom (X). Such hypervalent nonbonded S···X interactions can control the molecular structure and chemical reactivity of organic molecules, as well as their assembly and packing in the solid state. [...] Read more.
In organic molecules a divalent sulfur atom sometimes adopts weak coordination to a proximate heteroatom (X). Such hypervalent nonbonded S···X interactions can control the molecular structure and chemical reactivity of organic molecules, as well as their assembly and packing in the solid state. In the last decade, similar hypervalent interactions have been demonstrated by statistical database analysis to be present in protein structures. In this review, weak interactions between a divalent sulfur atom and an oxygen or nitrogen atom in proteins are highlighted with several examples. S···O interactions in proteins showed obviously different structural features from those in organic molecules (i.e., πO → σS* versus nO → σS* directionality). The difference was ascribed to the HOMO of the amide group, which expands in the vertical direction (πO) rather than in the plane (nO). S···X interactions in four model proteins, phospholipase A2 (PLA2), ribonuclease A (RNase A), insulin, and lysozyme, have also been analyzed. The results suggested that S···X interactions would be important factors that control not only the three-dimensional structure of proteins but also their functions to some extent. Thus, S···X interactions will be useful tools for protein engineering and the ligand design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hypervalent Compounds)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

216 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition and Insecticidal Activity Against Sitophilus zeamais of the Essential Oils Derived from Artemisia giraldii and Artemisia subdigitata
by Sha-Sha Chu, Zhi-Long Liu, Shu-Shan Du and Zhi-Wei Deng
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7255-7265; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067255 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5209
Abstract
The aim of this research was to determine the chemical composition and insecticidal activity of the essential oils derived from flowering aerial parts of Artemisia giraldii Pamp. and A. subdigitata Mattf. (Family: Asteraceae) against the maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais Motsch.). Essential oils [...] Read more.
The aim of this research was to determine the chemical composition and insecticidal activity of the essential oils derived from flowering aerial parts of Artemisia giraldii Pamp. and A. subdigitata Mattf. (Family: Asteraceae) against the maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais Motsch.). Essential oils of aerial parts of A. giraldii and A. subdigitata were obtained from hydrodistillation and investigated by GC and GC-MS. A total of 48 and 33 components of the essential oils of A. giraldii and A. subdigitata were identified, respectively. The principal compounds in A. giraldii essential oil were β-pinene (13.18%), iso-elemicin (10.08%), germacrene D (5.68%), 4-terpineol (5.43%) and (Z)-β-ocimene (5.06%). 1,8-Cineole (12.26%) and α-curcumene (10.77%) were the two main components of the essential oil of A. subdigitata, followed by β-pinene (7.38%), borneol (6.23%) and eugenol (5.87%). The essential oils of A. giraldii and A. subdigitata possessed fumigant toxicity against the maize weevils with LC50 values of 6.29 and 17.01 mg/L air, respectively. The two essential oils of A. giraldii and A. subdigitata also exhibited contact toxicity against S. zeamais adults with LD50 values of 40.51 and 76.34 µg/adult, respectively. The results indicated that the two essential oils show potential in terms of fumigant and contact toxicity against grain storage insects. Full article
510 KiB  
Article
Aqueous Extracts of the Edible Gracilaria tenuistipitata are Protective Against H2O2-Induced DNA Damage, Growth Inhibition, and Cell Cycle Arrest
by Jing-Iong Yang, Chi-Chen Yeh, Jin-Ching Lee, Szu-Cheng Yi, Hurng-Wern Huang, Chao-Neng Tseng and Hsueh-Wei Chang
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7241-7254; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067241 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 57 | Viewed by 7450
Abstract
Potential antioxidant properties of an aqueous extract of the edible red seaweed Gracilaria tenuistipitata (AEGT) against oxidative DNA damage were evaluated. The AEGT revealed several antioxidant molecules, including phenolics, flavonoids and ascorbic acid. In a cell-free assay, the extract exhibited 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical [...] Read more.
Potential antioxidant properties of an aqueous extract of the edible red seaweed Gracilaria tenuistipitata (AEGT) against oxidative DNA damage were evaluated. The AEGT revealed several antioxidant molecules, including phenolics, flavonoids and ascorbic acid. In a cell-free assay, the extract exhibited 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity that significantly reduced H2O2-induced plasmid DNA breaks in a dose-response manner (P < 0.001). The AEGT also suppressed H2O2-induced oxidative DNA damage in H1299 cells by reducing the percentage of damaged DNA in a dose-response manner (P < 0.001) as measured by a modified alkaline comet-nuclear extract (comet-NE) assay. The MTT assay results showed that AEGT confers significant protection against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and that AEGT itself is not cytotoxic (P < 0.001). Moreover, H2O2-induced cell cycle G2/M arrest was significantly released when cells were co-treated with different concentrations of AEGT (P < 0.001). Taken together, these findings suggest that edible red algae Gracilaria water extract can prevent H2O2-induced oxidative DNA damage and its related cellular responses. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

380 KiB  
Article
Astragalus membranaceus Extract Activates Immune Response in Macrophages via Heparanase
by Qiaojing Qin, Jianying Niu, Zhaoxia Wang, Wangjie Xu, Zhongdong Qiao and Yong Gu
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7232-7240; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067232 - 13 Jun 2012
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6616
Abstract
Astragalus membranaceus (AM), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has immunoregulatory properties in many diseases. We investigated the effects and mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus extract (AME) in the macrophage migration and immune response mediator release. The viability of Ana-1 macrophages treated with AME was [...] Read more.
Astragalus membranaceus (AM), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has immunoregulatory properties in many diseases. We investigated the effects and mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus extract (AME) in the macrophage migration and immune response mediator release. The viability of Ana-1 macrophages treated with AME was evaluated by the MTT method. The secretion and mRNA levels of IL-1β and TNF-a were measured by ELISA and RT-PCR, respectively. Macrophage migration was assayed by transwell assay. The activity of heparanase (HPA) was determined by a heparin-degrading enzyme assay. Our results didn’t show any toxicity of AME in macrophages. AME increased the activity of HPA, cell migration, mRNA levels and secretion of IL-1β and TNF-a in macrophages. Pretreatment with anti-HPA antibody reduced cell migration, secretion of IL-1β and TNF-a did not change the mRNA levels of IL-1β and TNF-a significantly in AME-treated macrophages. This suggests that AME may increase the release of immune response mediator and cell migration via HPA to activate immune response in macrophages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

380 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Thiophene Derivatives as Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors
by Mohamed M. Ismail, Mona M. Kamel, Lamia W. Mohamed, Samar I. Faggal and Mai A. Galal
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7217-7231; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067217 - 12 Jun 2012
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5022
Abstract
A series of new thiophene derivatives has been synthesized using the Gewald protocol. The acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity was assayed according to Ellman’s method using donepezil as reference. Some of the compounds were found to be more potent inhibitors than the reference. 2-(2-(4-(4-Methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)acetamido)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[b [...] Read more.
A series of new thiophene derivatives has been synthesized using the Gewald protocol. The acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity was assayed according to Ellman’s method using donepezil as reference. Some of the compounds were found to be more potent inhibitors than the reference. 2-(2-(4-(4-Methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)acetamido)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[b]thiophene-3-carboxamide (IIId) showed 60% inhibition, compared to only 40% inhibition by donepezil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

1485 KiB  
Article
Liquiritigenin Inhibits Tumor Growth and Vascularization in a Mouse Model of Hela Cells
by Yuxin Liu, Sirou Xie, Yu Wang, Kang Luo, Yang Wang and Yunqing Cai
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7206-7216; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067206 - 12 Jun 2012
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 6852
Abstract
Angiogenesis is one of the crucial steps in the transition of a tumor from a small, harmless cluster of mutated cells to a large, malignant growth, capable of spreading to other organs throughout the body. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that stimulates vasculogenesis [...] Read more.
Angiogenesis is one of the crucial steps in the transition of a tumor from a small, harmless cluster of mutated cells to a large, malignant growth, capable of spreading to other organs throughout the body. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that stimulates vasculogenesis and angiogenesis is thought to be as an anti-angiogenic target for cancer therapy. Liquiritigenin (LQ), a flavanone existing in Radix glycyrrhiza, shows extensive biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In our studies, liquiritigenin effectively inhibited the growth of tumors xenografted in nude mice from human cervical cancer cell line HeLa cells, and microvascular density (MVD) of the tumor exposed to liquiritigenin was reduced in a dose dependent manner, especially in the high dose group. Moreover, the expression and secretion of VEGF were down-regulated by the drug in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, liquiritigenin can be further studied on cancer and other diseases associated with VEGF up-regulation. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

583 KiB  
Article
Ginsenoside Rb1 Attenuates Intestinal Ischemia Reperfusion Induced Renal Injury by Activating Nrf2/ARE Pathway
by Qian Sun, Qing-Tao Meng, Ying Jiang and Zhong-Yuan Xia
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7195-7205; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067195 - 12 Jun 2012
Cited by 51 | Viewed by 7031
Abstract
Intestinal ischemia reperfusion (IIR) is a serious clinical condition associated with simultaneous multiple organ dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on IIR induced renal injury in mice. An intestinal ischemia reperfusion mouse model was established [...] Read more.
Intestinal ischemia reperfusion (IIR) is a serious clinical condition associated with simultaneous multiple organ dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on IIR induced renal injury in mice. An intestinal ischemia reperfusion mouse model was established by superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion for 45 min, followed by reperfusion for 2 h. IIR induced renal injury characterized by increase of BUN, Cr and NGAL in serum, MDA levels and decrease of SOD levels in the renal tissues. Ginsenoside Rb1 (30, 60 mg/kg) given intraperitoneally before reperfusion attennuated renal injury, which was associated with decrease of BUN, Cr and NGAL in serum, MDA levels and increase of SOD levels in the renal tissues. Furthermore, the immunohistochemistry and Western blot data showed that ginsenoside Rb1 dramatically reversed IIR induced renal injury, associated with upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in renal tissues. Our data suggests that ginsenoside Rb1 attenuates acute renal injury induced by intestinal ischemia reperfusion by activating the Nrf2/ARE pathway. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

294 KiB  
Article
Comparison of the Chemical Composition and Pharmacological Effects of the Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts from a Tibetan “Snow Lotus” (Saussurea laniceps) Herb
by Tao Yi, Hongwing Lo, Zhongzhen Zhao, Zhiling Yu, Zhijun Yang and Hubiao Chen
Molecules 2012, 17(6), 7183-7194; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules17067183 - 12 Jun 2012
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5325
Abstract
To understand the impacts of different processing methods on the composition and effects of the herb Saussurea laniceps (SL), the present study report the first comparison of the chemical constituents of aqueous and ethanolic SL extracts using chromatographic analysis, and to compare their [...] Read more.
To understand the impacts of different processing methods on the composition and effects of the herb Saussurea laniceps (SL), the present study report the first comparison of the chemical constituents of aqueous and ethanolic SL extracts using chromatographic analysis, and to compare their pharmacological effects in a mouse anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive model and an in vitro anti-oxidant test. Chemical comparison demonstrated that the types of chemicals in the two extracts were identical, but the contents of the main constituents in the aqueous extract were lower than those of the ethanolic extract. A transesterification of dicaffeoylquinic acids took place in the aqueous extract during boiling. As for pharmacological effects, oral administration of aqueous and ethanolic SL extracts significantly inhibited croton oil-induced mice ear edema, and significantly inhibited acetic acid-induced mice writhings, respectively. In the DPPH anti-oxidant activity test, the IC50 values were calculated as 409.6 mg/L and 523.4 mg/L for the ethanolic and aqueous extracts, respectively. The inhibitory effects of the ethanolic extract were more potent than those of the aqueous extract in all pharmacological tests, although there was no significant difference. This study suggests that the two preparations should be distinguished when used. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop