Synthesis and Molecular Modeling of Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Five-Membered Heterocycle–Cinnamic Acid Hybrids
Cyclodextrins as Multifunctional Platforms in Drug Delivery and Beyond: Structural Features, Functional Applications, and Future Trends
A Review of Recent Progress in Synthetic Polymer Surface Coatings for the Prevention of Biofilm Formation
Nickel-Driven Electrochemical Upgrading of Kraft Lignin to Value-Added Aliphatic and Phenolic Products
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Thymol and Thymol-Rich Essential Oils: Mechanisms, Applications, and Recent Findings

Journal Description

Molecules

Molecules is the leading international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of chemistry. Molecules is published semimonthly online by MDPI. The International Society of Nucleosides, Nucleotides & Nucleic Acids (IS3NA), the Spanish Society of Medicinal Chemistry (SEQT) and the International Society of Heterocyclic Chemistry (ISHC) are affiliated with Molecules and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Reaxys, CaPlus / SciFinder, MarinLit, AGRIS, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Organic Chemistry)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Sections: published in 25 topical sections.
Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Molecules.
Companion journal: Foundations.
Journal Cluster of Chemical Reactions and Catalysis: Catalysts, Chemistry, Electrochem, Inorganics, Molecules, Organics, Oxygen, Photochem, Reactions, Sustainable Chemistry.

Impact Factor: 4.6 (2024); 5-Year Impact Factor: 5.0 (2024)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 1420-3049

Latest Articles

19 pages, 2959 KB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Characterization and Anti-Tumor Activity of a Polysaccharide from Laetiporus sulphureus in A549 Cells

by Yunhe Qu, Xing Yang, Dongxue Zhao, Pingping Zhang, Yue Mi, Jing Xu, Boya Zhao and Dongfang Shi

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3706; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183706 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

While numerous bioactive polysaccharides have been identified from mushrooms, their mechanisms of action, particularly through the induction of oxidative stress in tumor cells, remain underexplored. This study isolates a novel polysaccharide, LSPS2, derived from Laetiporus sulphureus, followed by the elucidation of its distinctive structural features and specific antitumor activity in A549 lung carcinoma cells. LSPS2 was composed primarily of glucose (88.1%) and minor amounts of mannose (8.0%) and galactose (3.9%). Methylation and one-dimensional/two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (1D/2D NMR) analysis results indicated that LSPS2 was composed of (1→3)-linked-D-β-glucopyran residues and (1→4)-linked-D-α-glucopyran residues as the main chain. The side chains were connected to O-6 and O-3 of glucopyranose (Glcp) residues with terminal Glcp. It differs from previous reports on L. sulphureus polysaccharides. Functionally, LSPS2 markedly suppressed A549 cell viability in a manner that depended on both exposure duration and concentration. LSPS2 upregulated malondialdehyde (MDA) and downregulated reduced glutathione (GSH), demonstrating that LSPS2 induces oxidative stress in A549 cells. The results of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity assays further indicated that LSPS2 downregulates SOD activity, which may be the mechanism by which LSPS2 induces oxidative stress and, consequently, apoptosis in A549 cells. This targeted downregulation of a key antioxidant enzyme highlights a potential pathway for polysaccharide-induced tumor cell death. Our findings not only identify LSPS2 as a structurally distinct biopolymer but also elucidate its mode of action, underscoring its prospective application in tumor therapy and functional foods, warranting further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Probing Pharmacological and Biological Performance of Synthetic and Natural Compounds—2nd Edition)

25 pages, 2375 KB

Open AccessReview

Capparis L. (Capparaceae): A Scoping Review of Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology and Pharmacological Activates

by Bashaer Alsharif and Fabio Boylan

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3705; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183705 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Capers (Capparis L.), a genus of shrub-like plants within the family Capparaceae, exhibit remarkable ecological adaptability and have long been used in traditional medicine, food, and agroforestry. Phytochemical investigations have identified a wide array of bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, alkaloids, glucosinolates, spermidine derivatives, and other unique secondary metabolites—particularly in species such as C. spinosa and C. decidua. Pharmacological studies have reported diverse biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidant effects. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the genus, with particular attention to its botanical characteristics, ethnomedicinal relevance, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harnessing Nature’s Chemical Diversity: Innovations in Isolation, Identification, and Synthesis)

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19 pages, 5383 KB

Open AccessArticle

Construction of Pt-Cu-Vinylamine Complex on Hazelnut Shell Biochar as a Catalyst Used for Hydrosilylation of Alkenes by Tertiary Silanes

by Jing Zhou, Qiqi Zhang, Mengying Wang, Zongmu Xiao and Yixin Zhang

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3704; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183704 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

The design and development of low-cost and efficient nonhomogeneous catalysts for silicon hydrogen addition is a hot research topic. This study reports the synthesis of a novel solid catalyst, PtCu-NVF-HBNC, derived from hazelnut shell biomass waste. The catalyst was prepared through carbonisation, nitrogen-doped activation, functionalisation with N-vinylformamide (NVF), and subsequent bimetallic Pt–Cu loading. It features a divalent platinum–vinylamine complex as the active centre. The introduction of Cu as a promoter induces competitive coordination with the Pt(II)–vinylamine complex, leading to electron density redistribution on the vinylamine ligand and a significant enhancement in Pt(II) coordination bond strength. This electronic modulation results in markedly improved activity and regioselectivity in the hydrosilylation of alkenes with tertiary silanes. The optimised catalyst, Pt_1.6Cu-NVF-HBNC, demonstrated high performance in the hydrosilylation of linear alkenes, including 1-hexene, 1-octene, and 1-octadecene with triethoxysilane, indicating broad substrate adaptability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Materials Chemistry)

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28 pages, 2903 KB

Open AccessReview

N-Myristoyltransferase Inhibition in Parasitic Pathogens: Insights from Computer-Aided Drug Design

by Fernanda de França Genuíno Ramos Campos, Willian Charles da Silva Moura, Diego Romário-Silva, Rodrigo Santos Aquino de Araújo, Inês Morais, Sofia Cortes, Fátima Nogueira, Ricardo Olimpio de Moura and Igor José dos Santos Nascimento

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3703; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183703 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitute a group of infectious diseases that severely affect the health of impoverished populations, and the health, economies, and health systems of affected countries. Leishmaniasis and human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) are particularly notable, and malaria, despite not being neglected, is part of the “big three” (HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria) with high incidence, increasing the probability of infection by NTDs. Therefore, efforts are ongoing in the search for new drugs targeting the enzyme N-myristoyltransferase (NMT), a potential drug target that has been explored. Thus, we provide a review here that highlights the epidemiological data for these diseases and the importance of discovering new drugs against these agents. Here, the importance of NMT and its inhibitors is clear, with this study highlighting thiochromene, pyrazole, thienopyridine, oxadiazole, benzothiophene, and quinoline scaffolds, identified by computational methods followed by biological assays to validate the findings; for example, this study shows the action of the aminoacylpyrrolidine derivative 13 against Leishmania donovani NMT (IC₅₀ of 1.6 nM) and the pyrazole analog 23 against Plasmodium vivax NMT (IC₅₀ of 9.48 nM), providing several insights that can be used in drug design in further work. Furthermore, the selectivity and improvement in activity are related to interactions with the residues Val⁸¹, Phe⁹⁰, Tyr²¹⁷, Tyr³²⁶, Tyr³⁴⁵, and Met⁴²⁰ for leishmaniasis (LmNMT); Tyr²¹¹, Leu⁴¹⁰, and Ser³¹⁹ for malaria (PvNMT); and Lys²⁵ and Lys³⁸⁹ for HAT (TbNMT). We hope our work provides valuable insights that research groups worldwide can use to search for innovative drugs to combat these diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Theoretical and Computational Chemistry)

30 pages, 2648 KB

Open AccessReview

Advancing Brain Health Naturally: β-Caryophyllene and Xanthohumol as Neuroprotective Agents

by Stanislava Ivanova, Zoya Dzhakova, Velislava Todorova, Radka Boyuklieva, Plamen Simeonov and Plamen Katsarov

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3702; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183702 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) represent a class of incurable and progressive disorders characterized by the gradual degeneration of the structure and function of the nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. A range of innovative therapeutic approaches is currently under investigation, such as stem cell-based therapies, gene-editing platforms such as CRISPR, and immunotherapies directed at pathogenic proteins. Moreover, phytochemicals such as β-caryophyllene and xanthohumol have demonstrated significant neuroprotective potential in preclinical models. These natural agents exert multifaceted effects by modulating neuroinflammatory pathways, oxidative stress responses, and aberrant protein aggregation—pathological mechanisms that are central to the development and progression of neurodegenerative disorders. Recent investigations have increasingly emphasized the optimization of the pharmacokinetic properties of β-caryophyllene and xanthohumol through the development of advanced drug-delivery systems, including polymer- and lipid-based nano- and microscale carriers. Such advancements not only enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic potential of these phytochemicals but also underscore their growing relevance as natural candidates in the development of future interventions for neurodegenerative disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biologically Active Molecules: Extraction Strategies, Therapeutic Potential and Biomedical Perspective)

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3 pages, 173 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Carbohydrate Chemistry II

by Alberto Marra

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3701; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183701 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

This Special Issue on carbohydrates, including seven original articles and one review article, is mainly focused on the synthesis of mono, di and oligosaccharide derivatives [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbohydrate Chemistry II)

11 pages, 1332 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking the Biochemical Potential of Diadema setosum Tests: A Pathway Toward Circular Marine Bioeconomy

by Bilge Bilgin Fıçıcılar and Koray Korkmaz

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3700; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183700 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the biochemical and elemental composition of the test of Diadema setosum (D. setosum), a sea urchin species increasingly processed in Turkey, where the shell is commonly treated as industrial waste. Specimens were collected from the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, and the test material was subjected to amino acid profiling, protein quantification, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. The results revealed a considerable protein content (8.03%) and a rich amino acid spectrum dominated by glycine, aspartic acid, and arginine, supporting the presence of residual structural proteins even after processing. Mineral analysis showed a high calcium oxide concentration (43.19%), alongside significant levels of magnesium, phosphorus, strontium, and trace elements such as zinc, copper, and molybdenum. Rare earth elements and radionuclides including neodymium, samarium, and uranium were also detected, suggesting sediment interaction. These findings suggest that D. setosum tests could represent a sustainable source of bioavailable minerals and proteinaceous material, with prospective applications in fish or livestock feed, hydroxyapatite synthesis, or calcium oxide production, pending further validation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Sustainability: Promising By-Products for Valorization—2nd Edition)

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12 pages, 4017 KB

Open AccessArticle

Srtio₃-Based Composites for Photocatalytic Panels in Solar Hydrogen Production

by Aibol Baratov, Alexey Dikov, Lyubov Dikova, Tamara Aldabergenova, Timur Zholdybayev, Egor Maksimkin and Kira V. Tsay

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3699; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183699 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates photocatalytic cells based on cocatalyst-loaded SrTiO₃:Al and nano-SiO₂ as a porous binder, immobilized on frosted glass. Comprehensive analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of aluminum into SrTiO₃, increasing oxygen vacancy concentration and enhancing charge transfer. The deposition of RhCr₂O₃ and CoOOH cocatalysts significantly improved photocatalytic activity, boosting hydrogen and oxygen evolution rates to 3.8401 and 1.6319 mmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹, respectively. The introduction of nano-SiO₂ increased hardness (0.23–0.25 GPa) and Young’s modulus (5.27–5.40 GPa), reinforcing structural integrity. The development of efficient photocatalytic panels requires a multifaceted strategy that considers chemical, mechanical, and optical properties together with stability, durability, and energy efficiency. Future research should focus on optimizing these key parameters to enhance system performance for industrial applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials for Photocatalytic and Photoelectrocatalytic Water-Splitting)

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15 pages, 2188 KB

Open AccessArticle

Utility of the Redox Cycle of Nitrofurantoin for the Development of a New Chemiluminescence Method for Its Analysis in Milk Samples

by Mahmoud El-Maghrabey, Ali Abdel-Hakim, Shiho Tagaya, Naotaka Kuroda and Naoya Kishikawa

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3698; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183698 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Nitrofurantoin is utilized in various industries, including dairy, livestock, poultry, and aquaculture, as a growth promoter and antibacterial agent. Because prolonged use can cause mutagenesis and other side effects, many countries have prohibited its use in food-producing animals. In this work, we introduce a simple, rapid, and highly sensitive chemiluminescence (CL) approach for the quantitation of nitrofurantoin using its redox cycle activity. Nitrofurantoin is reduced to nitrofurantoin radicals by the reducing agent dithiothreitol, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formed during the reoxidation process (superoxide anion radical) are detected by luminol CL. The CL conditions were optimized, including types of solvents, CL and reducing reagents, and their concentrations. The method was validated as per International Council for Harmonization (ICHQ2(R2)) guidelines, regarding linearity, detection and quantitation limits, accuracy, and precision. A good linearity with r = 0.9992 was obtained between the CL intensity and the nitrofurantoin concentration in the range of 4.0–400.0 ng/mL with a high sensitivity down to 1.15 ng/mL. The method was utilized to determine nitrofurantoin in milk samples, and a good recovery range was obtained (97.5–103.1%; RSD ≤ 4.4%); the results were comparable to the reported method, demonstrating the method’s reliability. Finally, the method demonstrated good practicality using a recently developed assessment tool. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemiluminescence and Photoluminescence of Advanced Compounds)

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18 pages, 8730 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ginsenosides Enhanced Apoptosis of Serum-Free Starved A549 Lung Cancer Cells

by Jiwen Li, Keke Li, Mei Sun, Zhihong Gu, Lei Men, Xiaojie Gong and Zhongyu Li

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3697; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183697 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, where conventional chemotherapy is often limited by severe side effects and drug resistance. Ginsenosides, the primary bioactive triterpenoid saponins isolated from the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey, have demonstrated potential in combating non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, their efficacy under nutrient-deficient conditions remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ginsenosides on the growth and death of lung cancer cells under low-nutrient conditions and to explore the underlying mechanisms. A549 cells were divided into two groups: one cultured in 10% serum and another under serum-free conditions, followed by treatment with ginsenosides CK, Rh2(S), and Rg3(S) for 24 h. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated using a CCK-8 assay, Calcein/PI fluorescence staining, Hoechst 33258 staining, and flow cytometry. Potential targets and signaling pathways of ginsenosides were predicted using network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses. The mRNA expression of key genes was measured by qRT-PCR, and mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed using JC-1 staining. The results showed that ginsenosides induced dose-dependent apoptosis in serum-starved A549 cells. Bioinformatics analysis suggested the involvement of the PI3K/Akt/FoxO signaling pathway, which was supported by decreased Akt mRNA levels and increased FoxO mRNA expression. Furthermore, mRNA levels of Bim, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9 were significantly upregulated, accompanied by a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. These findings indicate that under serum deprivation, ginsenosides enhance apoptosis in A549 cells, likely through the regulation of the PI3K/Akt/FoxO pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Opportunities of Natural Products in Drug Discovery)

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25 pages, 1400 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Designing a Small Molecule for PET Radiotracing: [¹⁸F]MC225 in Human Trials for Early Diagnosis in CNS Pathologies

by Francesco Mastropasqua, Gert Luurtsema, Cristina Filosa and Nicola Antonio Colabufo

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3696; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183696 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

P-Glycoprotein (P-gp, also known as MDR1 or ABCB1) is an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter that actively effluxes a wide range of structurally and functionally diverse molecules, playing a crucial role in drug absorption, distribution, and excretion. P-gp is highly expressed at key biological barriers, such as the blood–brain barrier (BBB), intestine, liver, and kidneys, and it serves as a gatekeeper against xenobiotics and therapeutics. Its dysregulation is involved in multidrug resistance (MDR), epilepsy, cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Several small molecules were synthesized using SAfIR and SAR, and, among them, [¹⁸F]MC225 showed the most promising results for in vivo human studies, with appropriate pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics profiles for in vivo use. [¹⁸F]MC225 is currently being employed in PHASE II human trials at the UMC Groningen, the Netherlands, in patients diagnosed with AD, PD and MCI, as well as PHASE II human trials at the Policlinico Gemelli in Rome Italy to diagnose P-gp resistant depression. Preliminary studies show that [¹⁸F]MC225 radiotracer is behaving according to the initial predictions, that is, it accurately diagnoses the aforementioned pathologies, more so than previously developed small molecules for the same goal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small-Molecule Drug Design and Discovery)

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26 pages, 1067 KB

Open AccessReview

Dried Matrix Spots for the Determination of Opiates and Opioids: Methodological Advances and Applications

by Luana M. Rosendo, Rita Gonçalves, Rodrigo Martins, Vitória Castro, Tiago Rosado, Mário Barroso and Eugenia Gallardo

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3695; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183695 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Dried matrix spot (DMS) techniques have gained increasing attention in bioanalytical and forensic toxicology for the detection of opiates and opioids, offering minimally invasive sampling, enhanced sample stability, and simplified storage and transport. This review provides a critical overview of recent methodological advances and applications of DMS across multiple biological matrices, including blood, plasma, urine, and oral fluid. Particular focus is given to sample preparation protocols, extraction strategies, analytical instrumentation, and method performance. Dried blood spots (DBS) remain the most established format; however, alternative matrices such as dried plasma, urine, and saliva spots (DPS, DUS, DSS) are expanding the scope of DMS, particularly in decentralised and point-of-care contexts. Despite clear advantages, such as reduced biohazard risk and compatibility with high-throughput workflows, several limitations persist, including low sample volumes, matrix-specific recovery issues, and lack of standardised procedures. Future efforts should aim to optimise paper substrates, improve solvent–matrix compatibility, and integrate DMS workflows with automated or miniaturised mass spectrometry platforms. Overall, DMS techniques represent a versatile and evolving analytical platform with strong potential for reliable opioid monitoring in both clinical and forensic settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analytical Chemistry in Europe: Towards Sustainability and Quality of Life, 3rd Edition)

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27 pages, 1622 KB

Open AccessArticle

Next-Generation Wastewater-Based Epidemiology: Green Automation for Detecting 69 Multiclass Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products in Wastewater Using 96-Well Plate Solid-Phase Extraction by LC-MS/MS

by Bhaskar Karubothula, Veera Venkataramana Kota, Dnyaneshwar Shinde, Raghu Tadala, Vishnu Cheerala, Samara Bin Salem, Wael Faroug Elamin and Grzegorz Brudecki

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3694; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183694 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Conventional methods for detecting pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) in environmental samples are complex, resource-intensive, and not sustainable. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate an automated sample preparation approach using the Biomek i7 Workstation to analyze 69 PPCPs in wastewater, with the objective to improve monitoring of public health and environmental protection. The method underwent extensive development, including optimization of UPLC-MS/MS parameters, preparation of wastewater matrix blank sample and assessment of extraction efficiency using three types of SPE cartridges. Extraction efficiency trials revealed that the order of suitability for SPE cartridges is Mixed-Mode Anion Exchange (MAX) > Mixed-Mode Cation Exchange (MCX) > Hydrophilic–Lipophilic Balance (HLB). The method demonstrated specificity for all targeted PPCPs, with the max interfering peak for 1, 7 Dimethylxanthine reaching 14.79% of the response at the target limit of quantification (LOQ). The method met ±20% matrix effect tolerance for 63 PPCPs, while 6 PPCPs showed signal enhancement. The 8-point procedural calibration curve prepared using automated robotic extraction has demonstrated linearity across the tested range. A spiking study at low (LQC), medium (MQC), and high (HQC) quality control levels (n = 6), repeated on three separate occasions, showed % RSD values within 20% and % recovery between 80 and 120%. The method met validation requirements, showed reliability in Intra-Laboratory Comparison, Blind Testing (BT) and received high ratings for greenness (Green Analytical Procedure Index, Analytical GREEnness) and practicality (Blue Applicability Grade Index). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of LC-MS in Pharmaceutical Analysis)

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10 pages, 1162 KB

Open AccessArticle

Microwave-Assisted Neutral Glycosylation Reactions in the Absence of Reagent Activators

by Shanika M. P. Gamage, Geraud Valentin, Samir Ghosh, Pradheep Eradi, Rahul S. Bagul, David Crich and Peter R. Andreana

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3693; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183693 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Use of a microwave-labile leaving group, 2,4-dinitrophenyl (2,4-DNP), leads to O-glycosylation in 70–80% yields with high α-selectivity. The 2,4-DNP glycosyl donors, protected with electron-donating benzyl ethers, gave the best results under controlled microwave conditions, which were all conducted in polar aprotic solvents, such as DMF, and were all conducted in the absence of any reagent-activating additives such as a Lewis acid/base or Brønsted–Lowry acid/base. This method represents concerted efforts towards reagent-free neutral glycosylation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organic Chemistry)

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1 pages, 124 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Liu et al. Recent Development on the Synthesis Strategies and Mechanisms of Co₃O₄-Based Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Evolution Reaction: A Review. Molecules 2025, 30, 3238

by Yu Liu, Yifan Jia, Hongxing Jia and Liangjuan Gao

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3692; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183692 - 11 Sep 2025

Abstract

Addition of an Author [...] Full article

15 pages, 4406 KB

Open AccessReview

Synthesis of Janus Particles by Seeded Emulsion Polymerization

by Yingying Wu, Yingchun Long, Guolin Zhang, Qiuhua Wu and Fuxin Liang

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3691; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183691 - 10 Sep 2025

Abstract

Janus particles (JPs), as a special material with anisotropic chemical or physical partitioning, show great potential for application in the fields of material science, biomedicine, energy, and environment. How to achieve fine structural control and large-scale synthesis of JPs is the key point and difficulty for JPs. Seeded emulsion polymerization, as a simple and efficient method, plays an important role in the controlled fabrication of JPs. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the research progress in the preparation of JPs via seeded emulsion polymerization. We systematically summarize the process mechanisms and key parameters influencing the formation of Janus structures, with particular emphasis on the effects of seed characteristics, polymerization conditions, and component selection on particle morphology and anisotropy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterophase Polymerization and Functional Polymer Microspheres/Microcapsules)

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18 pages, 7269 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Pack Chromizing on Microstructure and Tribological Properties of GCr15 Bearing Steel

by Dejun Yan, Chunbei Wei, Peng Tang, Shuqi Huang, Songsheng Lin, Qian Shi and Xiaodong Hong

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3690; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183690 - 10 Sep 2025

Abstract

Chromizing layers are widely employed in industrial applications due to their superior wear resistance and corrosion resistance. In this study, GCr15 bearing steel was chromized by a solid powder pack chromizing method, and the influence of chromizing time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the chromized layers was systematically investigated. The results reveal the presence of fine pores dispersed both on the surface and at the chromized layers/substrate interface. The concentration of the Cr and Fe elements displays a gradient distribution throughout the layers. The chromized layers are primarily composed of (Cr,Fe)₂₃C₆ and (Cr,Fe)₇C₃ phases. With an increase in the chromizing time, the thickness and hardness of the chromized layers are gradually increased. A large number of radial and circumferential cracks are observed both within and around the indentation regions, accompanied by spalling at the edge. The brittleness of the chromized layer is increased, and the spalling phenomenon becomes more pronounced with prolonged chromizing time. The chromizing treatment significantly improves the tribological performance of GCr15 steel, reducing its wear rate to approximately one fifth of that of the untreated substrate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electroanalysis of Biochemistry and Material Chemistry—2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 1673 KB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation and Biological Evaluation of Human Tyrosinase Inhibitors from the Fruit of Xanthium strumarium L.

by Gengxuan Shi, Yaoying Lu, Yougang Zhang, Ke Zheng, Jean Giacomotto, Kathryn F. Tonissen and Yunjiang Feng

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3689; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183689 - 10 Sep 2025

Abstract

Tyrosinase catalyzes the rate-limiting steps of melanin production, posing as an important target for treating skin pigmentation. This study investigates bioactive human tyrosinase inhibitors from Xanthium strumarium L. using a combined strategy of cell lysate, cell-based, and zebrafish assays. In this study, the methanol extract of Xanthium strumarium L. was identified as a potent inhibitor against tyrosinase in a cell lysate assay utilizing human MM418C1 melanoma cells. Subsequent phytochemical analysis resulted in the isolation of 11 natural products, including 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4HB), three nucleotides, four caffeoylquinic acids and three alkaloids. Biological activity evaluation of isolated compounds suggested that 4HB was a potent inhibitor against tyrosinase with an IC₅₀ value of 59.5 μg/mL. Further evaluations revealed that 4HB significantly reduced the melanin content by 40% at the concentration of 500 mg/mL in human MM418C1 melanoma cells. 4HB activity was finally confirmed in vivo, by the demonstration of 40% reduction in melanin production in live zebrafish at the concentration of 15.63 μg/mL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Traditional Medicinal Plants, 2nd Edition)

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37 pages, 1750 KB

Open AccessReview

Multi-Target Pharmacological Effects of Asiatic Acid: Advances in Structural Modification and Novel Drug Delivery Systems

by Xiaofan Dong, Tianyi Wang, Chenjia Gao, Yulong Cui and Lingjun Li

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3688; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183688 - 10 Sep 2025

Abstract

Asiatic acid is an ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid compound extracted from the Umbelliferae plant Centella asiatica. Studies have shown that asiatic acid exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and wound healing effects. Asiatic acid is currently used in clinical settings in the form of tablets, capsules, and ointments, primarily for treating inflammation as well as burns, keloids, and other skin disorders. However, its poor water solubility, rapid metabolism, and low oral bioavailability have limited its clinical application for other diseases. Therefore, improving its water solubility and bioavailability is a prerequisite for addressing the limitations of asiatic acid in clinical use. This review summarizes the pharmacological mechanisms of action of asiatic acid and explains the reasons for its limited clinical application. This review describes methods to improve bioavailability through structural modifications of asiatic acid and the development of new formulations. It also focuses on enhancing the pharmacological effects of asiatic acid through the development and utilization of novel formulations such as nanoformulations and hydrogel formulations, providing a theoretical basis for the clinical translation of asiatic acid and the further research and development of asiatic acid-based drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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15 pages, 4244 KB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Origin of the Fast Polymerization Rates and Monomer Universality of Pyrazole-Based Photoiniferters

by Bo Wang, Xuegang Liu, Zhilei Wang, Chenyu Wu, Zikuan Wang and Wenjian Liu

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3687; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183687 - 10 Sep 2025

Abstract

Herein, we report a combined computational and experimental investigation into the recently reported universal pyrazole-based reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agents (Z−C(=S)−S−R, where Z is 3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl), which can mediate controlled radical polymerization of a broad scope of monomers without the need for an additional initiator or catalyst. The results reveal that the high molar absorption coefficient and efficient photolysis kinetics of pyrazole-based chain transfer agents (CTAs) under blue light (

λ_{\max}

= 465 nm) enable rapid radical generation, underpinning ultrafast polymerization of acrylates, acrylamides, methacrylates, and N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP). While the efficient light absorption is attributed to structural dissimilarity between the Z group and the S–R group (which breaks the local symmetry of the C=S group), the fast photolysis originates from favorable

π

electron donation from the Z group to the C=S group. Meanwhile, the

π

electron donation is still weaker than in xanthates, which explains the excellent control of a wide range of monomers, except methacrylates. This work establishes design principles for next-generation CTAs for ultrafast and monomer-universal photoiniferter RAFT polymerization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Macromolecular Chemistry)

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