Journal Description
Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceuticals
is a peer-reviewed, open access journal of medicinal chemistry and related drug sciences, published monthly online by MDPI. The Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences (APS) is partners of Pharmaceuticals and their members receive a discount on the article processing charge.
- 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, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Pharmacology & Pharmacy) / CiteScore - Q2 (Pharmaceutical Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- 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.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Pharmaceuticals.
- International Electronic Conference on Medicinal Chemistry (https://sciforum.net/series/ecmc/latest)
- Companion journals for Pharmaceuticals include: Pharmacoepidemiology, Psychoactives and Drugs and Drug Candidates.
Impact Factor:
4.6 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.9 (2022)
Latest Articles
Anti-Vasculogenic, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Sulfated Polysaccharide Derived from Codium tomentosum: Pharmacokinetic Assay
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060672 (registering DOI) - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this paper was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities of sulfated polysaccharide from C. tomentosum (PCT) using carrageenan (CARR)-induced paw edema in a rat model and anti-vasculogenic activity on a chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM) model. Based on in vitro
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The purpose of this paper was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities of sulfated polysaccharide from C. tomentosum (PCT) using carrageenan (CARR)-induced paw edema in a rat model and anti-vasculogenic activity on a chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM) model. Based on in vitro tests of anti-radical, total antioxidant, and reducing power activities, PCT presents a real interest via its antioxidant activity and ability to scavenge radical species. The in vivo pharmacological tests suggest that PCT possesses anti-inflammatory action by reducing paw edema and leukocyte migration, maintaining the redox equilibrium, and stabilizing the cellular level of several pro-/antioxidant system markers. It could significantly decrease the malondialdehyde levels and increase superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione activities in local paw edema and erythrocytes during the acute inflammatory reaction of CARR. PCT pretreatment was effective against DNA alterations in the blood lymphocytes of inflamed rats and reduced the hematological alteration by restoring blood parameters to normal levels. The anti-angiogenic activity results revealed that CAM neovascularization, defined as the formation of new vessel numbers and branching patterns, was decreased by PCT in a dose-dependent manner, which supported the in silico bioavailability and pharmacokinetic findings. These results indicated the therapeutic effects of polysaccharides from C. tomentosum and their possible use as anti-proliferative molecules based on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic activities.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Research in Pharmacological Therapies)
Open AccessArticle
Population Pharmacokinetics of Dasatinib in Healthy Subjects
by
Walaa B. Hassouneh, Mutasim A. Al-Ghazawi, Mohammad I. Saleh and Naji Najib
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060671 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Dasatinib is one of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The main use of these agents is inhibition of cancerous cell proliferation. The therapeutic importance of tyrosine kinase inhibitors raises the necessity of many types of investigations, especially the pharmacokinetic analysis of
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Background and Objectives: Dasatinib is one of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The main use of these agents is inhibition of cancerous cell proliferation. The therapeutic importance of tyrosine kinase inhibitors raises the necessity of many types of investigations, especially the pharmacokinetic analysis of these drugs in humans. This analysis, along with other investigations and clinical research, will contribute to the overall knowledge of the drug. This study focused on the population pharmacokinetics of dasatinib. The objective of the study was to investigate the sources of the variability of dasatinib in a population pharmacokinetics study in healthy participants. Methods: We utilized 4180 plasma observations from 110 subjects who were administered SPRYCEL® on two separate occasions under fasting conditions; data from 20% of the subjects (22 subjects) were extracted for the purpose of internal model evaluation and data from 88 subjects were used in modeling. The model was evaluated by visual predictive check of three different datasets. A two-compartmental model with first order absorption and transit compartment was considered the simplest base model to describe the data based on the corrected Bayesian information criterion evaluation. Covariates were tested through conditional sampling for the stepwise approach-screening procedure in Monolix 2020R1 version. Conditional sampling for the stepwise approach was used to include the correlated covariates within the base model in the forward inclusion step and then to eliminate them backwardly to ensure that the key covariates were kept in the model at the final stage. Results: The effect of body mass index on the absorption rate constant was considered as significant covariate in the final established model. Visual predictive check for simulations, 20% of the original dataset (internal dataset) and an external dataset demonstrated the appropriateness of the final model. Conclusions: Population pharmacokinetic modeling was performed to describe dasatinib pharmacokinetics in healthy subjects. Body mass index was considered as a factor that might be used in the future along with studies on patients to adjust the dosing regimens. Key Points: Dasatinib is classified as a highly variable drug; this variability was demonstrated in the study by the effect of body mass index on the absorption rate constant.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic and Clinical Strategies)
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Open AccessReview
Dietary Polyphenols, Plant Metabolites, and Allergic Disorders: A Comprehensive Review
by
Mohd Farhan, Asim Rizvi, Mohammad Aatif, Ghazala Muteeb, Kimy Khan and Farhan Asif Siddiqui
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060670 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Given the ongoing rise in the occurrence of allergic disorders, alterations in dietary patterns have been proposed as a possible factor contributing to the emergence and progression of these conditions. Currently, there is a significant focus on the development of dietary therapies that
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Given the ongoing rise in the occurrence of allergic disorders, alterations in dietary patterns have been proposed as a possible factor contributing to the emergence and progression of these conditions. Currently, there is a significant focus on the development of dietary therapies that utilize natural compounds possessing anti-allergy properties. Dietary polyphenols and plant metabolites have been intensively researched due to their well-documented anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory characteristics, making them one of the most prominent natural bioactive chemicals. This study seeks to discuss the in-depth mechanisms by which these molecules may exert anti-allergic effects, namely through their capacity to diminish the allergenicity of proteins, modulate immune responses, and modify the composition of the gut microbiota. However, further investigation is required to fully understand these effects. This paper examines the existing evidence from experimental and clinical studies that supports the idea that different polyphenols, such as catechins, resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin, and others, can reduce allergic inflammation, relieve symptoms of food allergy, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, and prevent the progression of the allergic immune response. In summary, dietary polyphenols and plant metabolites possess significant anti-allergic properties and can be utilized for developing both preventative and therapeutic strategies for targeting allergic conditions. The paper also discusses the constraints in investigating and broad usage of polyphenols, as well as potential avenues for future research.
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(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
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Open AccessArticle
Ketamine’s Amelioration of Fear Extinction in Adolescent Male Mice Is Associated with the Activation of the Hippocampal Akt-mTOR-GluA1 Pathway
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Emilija Glavonic, Milorad Dragic, Milos Mitic, Minja Aleksic, Iva Lukic, Sanja Ivkovic and Miroslav Adzic
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060669 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Fear-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety disorders are pervasive psychiatric conditions marked by persistent fear, stemming from its dysregulated acquisition and extinction. The primary treatment for these disorders, exposure therapy (ET), relies heavily on fear extinction (FE) principles. Adolescence, a
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Fear-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety disorders are pervasive psychiatric conditions marked by persistent fear, stemming from its dysregulated acquisition and extinction. The primary treatment for these disorders, exposure therapy (ET), relies heavily on fear extinction (FE) principles. Adolescence, a vulnerable period for developing psychiatric disorders, is characterized by neurobiological changes in the fear circuitry, leading to impaired FE and increased susceptibility to relapse following ET. Ketamine, known for relieving anxiety and reducing PTSD symptoms, influences fear-related learning processes and synaptic plasticity across the fear circuitry. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of ketamine (10 mg/kg) on FE in adolescent male C57 BL/6 mice at the behavioral and molecular levels. We analyzed the protein and gene expression of synaptic plasticity markers in the hippocampus (HPC) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) and sought to identify neural correlates associated with ketamine’s effects on adolescent extinction learning. Ketamine ameliorated FE in the adolescent males, likely affecting the consolidation and/or recall of extinction memory. Ketamine also increased the Akt and mTOR activity and the GluA1 and GluN2A levels in the HPC and upregulated BDNF exon IV mRNA expression in the HPC and PFC of the fear-extinguished mice. Furthermore, ketamine increased the c-Fos expression in specific brain regions, including the ventral HPC (vHPC) and the left infralimbic ventromedial PFC (IL vmPFC). Providing a comprehensive exploration of ketamine’s mechanisms in adolescent FE, our study suggests that ketamine’s effects on FE in adolescent males are associated with the activation of hippocampal Akt-mTOR-GluA1 signaling, with the vHPC and the left IL vmPFC as the proposed neural correlates.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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Open AccessReview
Microbicides for Topical HIV Immunoprophylaxis: Current Status and Future Prospects
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Yury V. Zhernov, Vladislava O. Petrova, Mark Y. Simanduyev, Denis V. Shcherbakov, Roman V. Polibin, Oleg V. Mitrokhin, Artem A. Basov, Nadezhda N. Zabroda, Sonya O. Vysochanskaya, Ezzulddin Al-khaleefa, Kamilla R. Pashayeva and Narmina Yu. Feyziyeva
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060668 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Microbicides, which are classified as topical antiseptic agents, are a revolutionary advancement in HIV prevention aimed to prevent the entry of infectious agents into the human body, thus stopping the sexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Microbicides represent the promise
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Microbicides, which are classified as topical antiseptic agents, are a revolutionary advancement in HIV prevention aimed to prevent the entry of infectious agents into the human body, thus stopping the sexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Microbicides represent the promise of a new age in preventive measures against one of the world’s most pressing health challenges. In addition to their direct antiviral effects during HIV transmission, microbicides also influence vaginal mucosal immunity. This article reviews microbicides by presenting different drug classifications and highlighting significant representatives from each group. It also explains their mechanisms of action and presents information about vaginal mucosal immune responses, emphasizing the critical role they play in responding to HIV during sexual transmission. The article discusses the following groups of microbicides: surfactants or membrane disruptors, vaginal milieu protectors, anionic polymers, dendrimers, carbohydrate-binding proteins, HIV replication inhibitors (reverse transcriptase inhibitors), and multi-purpose prevention technologies, which combine protection against HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases, and contraception. For each chemical compound, the article provides a brief overview of relevant preclinical and clinical research, emphasizing their potential as microbicides. The article offers insights into the multifaceted impact of microbicides, which signify a pivotal step forward in the pursuit of effective and accessible pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
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(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceuticals)
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Antibacterial Potential of Artemisia judaica Compounds Targeting the Hydrolase/Antibiotic Protein in Klebsiella pneumoniae: In Vitro and In Silico Investigations
by
Fahdah Ayed Alshammari
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060667 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Carbapenem antibiotic resistance is an emerging medical concern. Bacteria that possess the Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) protein, an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of carbapenem antibiotics, have exhibited remarkable resistance to traditional and even modern therapeutic approaches. This study aimed to identify potential
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Carbapenem antibiotic resistance is an emerging medical concern. Bacteria that possess the Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) protein, an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of carbapenem antibiotics, have exhibited remarkable resistance to traditional and even modern therapeutic approaches. This study aimed to identify potential natural drug candidates sourced from the leaves of Artemisia judaica (A. judaica). The phytoconstituents present in A. judaica dried leaves were extracted using ethanol 80%. A reasonable amount of the extract was used to identify these phytochemicals via gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). One hundred twenty-two bioactive compounds from A. judaica were identified and subjected to docking analysis against the target bacterial protein. Four compounds (PubChem CID: 6917974, 159099, 628694, and 482788) were selected based on favorable docking scores (−9, −7.8, −7.7, and −7.5 kcal/mol). This computational investigation highlights the potential of these four compounds as promising antibacterial candidates against the specific KPC protein. Additionally, in vitro antibacterial assays using A. judaica extracts were conducted. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against the bacterium K. pneumonia was 125 μg/mL. Well–disk diffusion tests exhibited inhibition zones ranging from 10.3 ± 0.5 mm to 17 ± 0.5 mm at different concentrations, and time–kill kinetics at 12 h indicated effective inhibition of bacterial growth by A. judaica leaf extracts. Our findings have revealed the pharmaceutical potential of Artemisia judaica as a natural source for drug candidates against carbapenem-resistant pathogens.
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(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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Open AccessArticle
Plasma Sclerostin Levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis Women on TNF-α Inhibitor Therapy
by
Anna Szeremeta, Agnieszka Jura-Półtorak, Aleksandra Zoń-Giebel, Krystyna Olczyk and Katarzyna Komosińska-Vassev
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060666 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with significant systemic and local bone loss. The aim of this study was to assess whether or not 15-month tumor necrosis factor α inhibitor (TNFαI) therapy in combination with methotrexate (MTX) affects circulating levels of sclerostin (SOST) in
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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with significant systemic and local bone loss. The aim of this study was to assess whether or not 15-month tumor necrosis factor α inhibitor (TNFαI) therapy in combination with methotrexate (MTX) affects circulating levels of sclerostin (SOST) in female RA patients. Plasma levels of SOST were measured using immunoassays kits. Baseline SOST levels showed no significant differences between RA patients and control participants. Postmenopausal women with RA tended to have higher sclerostin levels than premenopausal woman with RA. After 15 months of treatment with TNFαI, plasma levels of SOST were decreased. Before starting biological therapy, circulating levels of SOST significantly correlated with the patient’s age (p < 0.05) and the marker of inflammation, such as ESR (p < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that age was the only significant predictor for baseline SOST levels in women with RA (β = 0.008, p = 0.028, R2 model = 0.293). Moreover, a positive correlation between SOST levels and the 28 joint disease activity score value based on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) was found at baseline (p < 0.05), as well as after 15 months of biological therapy (p < 0.05). Thus, plasma SOST levels may be helpful for monitoring the efficacy of TNFαI treatment in RA patients. According to our results, TNFαI, in combination with MTX, has a beneficial effect on bone turnover with a significant reduction in bone metabolism marker SOST.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Treatment for Rheumatic Diseases)
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Renal Replacement Therapy as a New Indicator of Voriconazole Clearance in a Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Critically Ill Patients
by
Yuqiong Wang, Qinghua Ye, Pengmei Li, Linna Huang, Zhijiang Qi, Wenqian Chen, Qingyuan Zhan and Chen Wang
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060665 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Aims: The pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of voriconazole in intensive care unit (ICU) patients differ from that in other patients. We aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model to evaluate the effects of using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy
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Aims: The pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of voriconazole in intensive care unit (ICU) patients differ from that in other patients. We aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model to evaluate the effects of using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and those of various biological covariates on the voriconazole PK profile. Methods: Modeling analyses of the PK parameters were conducted using the nonlinear mixed-effects modeling method (NONMEM) with a two-compartment model. Monte Carlo simulations (MCSs) were performed to observe the probability of target attainment (PTA) when receiving CRRT or not under different dosage regimens, different stratifications of quick C-reactive protein (qCRP), and different minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranges. Results: A total of 408 critically ill patients with 746 voriconazole concentration–time data points were included in this study. A two-compartment population PK model with qCRP, CRRT, creatinine clearance rate (CLCR), platelets (PLT), and prothrombin time (PT) as fixed effects was developed using the NONMEM. Conclusions: We found that qCRP, CRRT, CLCR, PLT, and PT affected the voriconazole clearance. The most commonly used clinical regimen of 200 mg q12h was sufficient for the most common sensitive pathogens (MIC ≤ 0.25 mg/L), regardless of whether CRRT was performed and the level of qCRP. When the MIC was 0.5 mg/L, 200 mg q12h was insufficient only when the qCRP was <40 mg/L and CRRT was performed. When the MIC was ≥2 mg/L, a dose of 300 mg q12h could not achieve ≥ 90% PTA, necessitating the evaluation of a higher dose.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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Open AccessReview
Can O-GIcNAc Transferase (OGT) Complex Be Used as a Target for the Treatment of Hematological Malignancies?
by
Shiwei Zhuang, Zhimei Liu, Jinyao Wu, Yudan Yao, Zongyang Li, Yanxiang Shen, Bin Yu and Donglu Wu
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060664 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
The circulatory system is a closed conduit system throughout the body and consists of two parts as follows: the cardiovascular system and the lymphatic system. Hematological malignancies usually grow and multiply in the circulatory system, directly or indirectly affecting its function. These malignancies
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The circulatory system is a closed conduit system throughout the body and consists of two parts as follows: the cardiovascular system and the lymphatic system. Hematological malignancies usually grow and multiply in the circulatory system, directly or indirectly affecting its function. These malignancies include multiple myeloma, leukemia, and lymphoma. O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) transferase (OGT) regulates the function and stability of substrate proteins through O-GlcNAc modification. Abnormally expressed OGT is strongly associated with tumorigenesis, including hematological malignancies, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. In cells, OGT can assemble with a variety of proteins to form complexes to exercise related biological functions, such as OGT/HCF-1, OGT/TET, NSL, and then regulate glucose metabolism, gene transcription, cell proliferation, and other biological processes, thus affecting the development of hematological malignancies. This review summarizes the complexes involved in the assembly of OGT in cells and the role of related OGT complexes in hematological malignancies. Unraveling the complex network regulated by the OGT complex will facilitate a better understanding of hematologic malignancy development and progression.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceuticals)
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Open AccessReview
Comparison of the Differences between Two-Photon Excitation, Upconversion, and Conventional Photodynamic Therapy on Cancers in In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
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Chuanshan Xu, Siu Kan Law and Albert Wing Nang Leung
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060663 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment for several diseases. It combines light energy with a photosensitizer (PS) to destroy the targeted cells or tissues. A PS itself is a non-toxic substance, but it becomes toxic to the target cells through the
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Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment for several diseases. It combines light energy with a photosensitizer (PS) to destroy the targeted cells or tissues. A PS itself is a non-toxic substance, but it becomes toxic to the target cells through the activation of light at a specific wavelength. There are some limitations of PDT, although it has been used in clinical studies for a long time. Two-photon excitation (TPE) and upconversion (UC) for PDT have been recently developed. A TPE nanoparticle-based PS combines the advantages of TPE and nanotechnology that has emerged as an attractive therapeutic agent for near-infrared red (NIR) light-excited PDT, whilst UC is also used for the NIR light-triggered drug release, activation of ‘caged’ imaging, or therapeutic molecules during PDT process for the diagnosis, imaging, and treatment of cancers. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched, including WanFang Data, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer Link, SciFinder, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), without any language constraints. TPE and UCNP were evaluated to determine if they had different effects from PDT on cancers. All eligible studies were analyzed and summarized in this review. Results: TPE-PDT and UCNP-PDT have a high cell or tissue penetration ability through the excitation of NIR light to activate PS molecules. This is much better than the conventional PDT induced by visible or ultraviolet (UV) light. These studies showed a greater PDT efficacy, which was determined by enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced cell viability, as well as inhibited abnormal cell growth for the treatment of cancers. Conclusions: Conventional PDT involves Type I and Type II reactions for the generation of ROS in the treatment of cancer cells, but there are some limitations. Recently, TPE-PDT and UCNP-PDT have been developed to overcome these problems with the help of nanotechnology in in vitro and in vivo studies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photosensitizers and Drug Delivery Systems for Photodynamic Therapy)
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Open AccessArticle
Profibrotic Inflammatory Cytokines and Growth Factors Are Predicted as the Key Targets of Uncaria gambir (Hunter) Roxb. in Keloids: An Epistatic and Molecular Simulation Approach
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Sri Suciati Ningsih, Fadilah Fadilah, Sri Widia A. Jusman, Rahimi Syaidah and Takashi Yashiro
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060662 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Keloid is characterized as the fibrotic tissue resulting from the increase of fibroblast activity. Uncaria gambir (Hunter) Roxb. possesses bioactive compounds that have potential as antifibrotic agents, while the mechanism of action in keloid has not yet been elucidated. The aim of this
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Keloid is characterized as the fibrotic tissue resulting from the increase of fibroblast activity. Uncaria gambir (Hunter) Roxb. possesses bioactive compounds that have potential as antifibrotic agents, while the mechanism of action in keloid has not yet been elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the interaction of gambir bioactive compounds with keloid target proteins using an epistatic and molecular simulation approach. The known bioactive compounds of gambir targets and keloid-related protein targets were screened using databases. The network was constructed and analyzed to obtain the core protein targets. The targets were enriched to describe the Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway related to the proteins. Eleven targets were defined as the main targets of gambir bioactive compounds related to keloid disease. Gambiriin C, Isogambirine, and Procyanidin B1 were identified as the most promising compounds with the highest binding energy to transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1), AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1), and matrix metallopeptidase 1 (MMP1) as the target proteins. GO enrichment and pathway analysis found that gambir bioactive compounds may act on keloid-related target proteins to regulate cell proliferation, migration, transcription, and signal transduction activity via profibrotic cytokine and growth factor signaling pathways. This study provides a reference for potential targets, compounds, and pathways to explain the mechanism of gambir against keloid.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Targeted Natural Products as Therapeutics)
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Open AccessReview
Small Molecule Drugs Targeting Viral Polymerases
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Deborah Palazzotti, Martina Sguilla, Giuseppe Manfroni, Violetta Cecchetti, Andrea Astolfi and Maria Letizia Barreca
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050661 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Small molecules that specifically target viral polymerases—crucial enzymes governing viral genome transcription and replication—play a pivotal role in combating viral infections. Presently, approved polymerase inhibitors cover nine human viruses, spanning both DNA and RNA viruses. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of these
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Small molecules that specifically target viral polymerases—crucial enzymes governing viral genome transcription and replication—play a pivotal role in combating viral infections. Presently, approved polymerase inhibitors cover nine human viruses, spanning both DNA and RNA viruses. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of these licensed drugs, encompassing nucleoside/nucleotide inhibitors (NIs), non-nucleoside inhibitors (NNIs), and mutagenic agents. For each compound, we describe the specific targeted virus and related polymerase enzyme, the mechanism of action, and the relevant bioactivity data. This wealth of information serves as a valuable resource for researchers actively engaged in antiviral drug discovery efforts, offering a complete overview of established strategies as well as insights for shaping the development of next-generation antiviral therapeutics.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small Molecules Targeting Viral Polymerases)
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Open AccessReview
The Therapeutic Potential of Harpagophytum procumbens and Turnera subulata and Advances in Nutraceutical Delivery Systems in Neurodegenerative Diseases
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Antonio Carlos Vital Júnior, Mikaelly Batista da Silva, Shênia Santos Monteiro and Matheus Augusto de Bittencourt Pasquali
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050660 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
This review article covers the therapeutic potential of the plants Harpagophytum procumbens and Turnera subulata in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the recognition of their beneficial properties, there is notable shortage of specific clinical and in vitro studies on these species regarding
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This review article covers the therapeutic potential of the plants Harpagophytum procumbens and Turnera subulata in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the recognition of their beneficial properties, there is notable shortage of specific clinical and in vitro studies on these species regarding neurodegenerative diseases. Compounds such as harpagosides and vite-xin-2-O-rhamnoside, found in Harpagophytum procumbens and Turnera subulata, respectively, as well as other antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, are associated with mechanisms of action that involve reducing oxidative stress and modulating the inflammatory response, indicating their therapeutic potential in these pathologies. Additionally, the use of nutraceuticals derived from medicinal plants has emerged as a promising approach, offering natural therapeutic alternatives. However, the pressing need for studies focusing on the pharmacokinetics, safety, and pharmacological interactions of these extracts for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is emphasized. This review also evaluated advances in nutraceutical delivery systems, highlighting technological innovations that can optimize the precise delivery of these compounds to patients. Such findings highlight the gaps in the study of these plants for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and, at the same time, the potential for opening new perspectives in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, providing expectations for innovative solutions in this critical domain of medicine.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Potential Use of Neuroprotective and Neurorestorative Effects)
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Open AccessArticle
Discovery and Anticancer Screening of Novel Oxindole-Based Derivative Bearing Pyridyl Group as Potent and Selective Dual FLT3/CDK2 Kinase Inhibitor
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Aya Soudi, Onur Bender, Ismail Celik, Amer Ali Abd El-Hafeez, Rumeysa Dogan, Arzu Atalay, Eslam B. Elkaeed, Aisha A. Alsfouk, Elshimaa M. N. Abdelhafez, Omar M. Aly, Wolfgang Sippl and Taha F. S. Ali
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050659 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Protein kinases regulate cellular activities and make up over 60% of oncoproteins and proto-oncoproteins. Among these kinases, FLT3 is a member of class III receptor tyrosine kinase family which is abundantly expressed in individuals with acute leukemia. Our previous oxindole-based hit has a
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Protein kinases regulate cellular activities and make up over 60% of oncoproteins and proto-oncoproteins. Among these kinases, FLT3 is a member of class III receptor tyrosine kinase family which is abundantly expressed in individuals with acute leukemia. Our previous oxindole-based hit has a particular affinity toward FLT3 (IC50 = 2.49 μM) and has demonstrated selectivity towards FLT3 ITD-mutated MV4-11 AML cells, with an IC50 of 4.3 μM. By utilizing the scaffold of the previous hit, sixteen new compounds were synthesized and screened against NCI-60 human cancer cell lines. This leads to the discovery of a potent antiproliferative compound, namely 5l, with an average GI50 value against leukemia and colon cancer subpanels equalling 3.39 and 5.97 µM, respectively. Screening against a specific set of 10 kinases that are associated with carcinogenesis indicates that compound 5l has a potent FLT3 inhibition (IC50 = 36.21 ± 1.07 nM). Remarkably, compound 5l was three times more effective as a CDK2 inhibitor (IC50 = 8.17 ± 0.32 nM) compared to sunitinib (IC50 = 27.90 ± 1.80 nM). Compound 5l was further analyzed by means of docking and molecular dynamics simulation for CDK2 and FLT3 active sites which provided a rational for the observed strong inhibition of kinases. These results suggest a novel structural scaffold candidate that simultaneously inhibits CDK2 and FLT3 and gives encouragement for further development as a potential therapeutic for leukemia and colon cancer.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Kinase Inhibitors in Targeted Cancer Therapy)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Effects of Smallanthus sonchifolius Flour on Metabolic Parameters: A Systematic Review
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Isabela Frazão da Silva, Wesley Rossi Bragante, Renato Cesar Moretti Junior, Lucas Fornari Laurindo, Elen Landgraf Guiguer, Adriano Cressoni Araújo, Adriana M. R. Fiorini, Claudia C. T. Nicolau, Marie Oshiiwa, Enzo Pereira de Lima, Sandra Maria Barbalho and Luís R. Silva
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050658 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Smallanthus sonchifolius, popularly known as yacon, is a member of the Asteraceae family. Due to its medicinal and edible value, yacon is consumed by different populations. Yacon is unique due to its high fructo-oligosaccharide and inulin content, as well as flavonoids, sesquiterpene
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Smallanthus sonchifolius, popularly known as yacon, is a member of the Asteraceae family. Due to its medicinal and edible value, yacon is consumed by different populations. Yacon is unique due to its high fructo-oligosaccharide and inulin content, as well as flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic acids. Roots can be used to produce flour, which is less perishable and can be applied in various industrial products. This systematic review focuses on the effects of yacon flour on metabolic parameters. PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were consulted, and PRISMA guidelines were followed in the selection of the studies. In total, 526 articles were found in the databases, and of these, only 28 full texts were eligible for inclusion. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven studies were finally included. The results showed that the use of yacon flour can reduce glycemia, HbA1c, advanced glycation ends, plasma lipids, body fat mass, body weight, and waist circumference and improve intestinal microbiota and the antioxidant status. Further exploration of the effects of yacon flour is warranted, and additional clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal daily consumption levels required to assist in improving metabolic parameters.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant- , Microbial- and Marine-Derived Natural Product Research in Drug Discovery: Strengths and Perspectives)
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Open AccessArticle
Genotoxic and Anti-Genotoxic Potential of Hydrosols from Water–Steam Distillation of Oil-Bearing Roses Rosa centifolia L. and Rosa gallica L. from Bulgaria
by
Svetla Gateva, Gabriele Jovtchev, Tsveta Angelova, Tsvetelina Gerasimova, Ana Dobreva and Milka Mileva
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050657 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Rosa centifolia L. and Rosa gallica L. (Rosaceae) are grown as raw materials for valuable essential oils and hydrosols. There are scarce data about the biological activities and the genoprotective potential of the hydrosols of these roses. The aim of the study was
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Rosa centifolia L. and Rosa gallica L. (Rosaceae) are grown as raw materials for valuable essential oils and hydrosols. There are scarce data about the biological activities and the genoprotective potential of the hydrosols of these roses. The aim of the study was to provide information on their cytotoxic/genotoxic activity and anti-cytotoxic/anti-genotoxic capacity against mutagenic N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG). The evaluation was performed using classical tests for chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei in the higher plant Hordeum vulgare and human lymphocyte test systems. The experimental schemes included combined hydrosol and mutagen treatment. Both hydrosols (6, 14, 20%) had no cytotoxic effect on barley and showed low genotoxicity in both test systems as the injuries were enhanced to a lesser extent compared to the controls. Lymphocytes were more susceptible than H. vulgare. Under the conditions of combined treatment, it was found that the two hydrosols possessed good anti-cytotoxic and anti-genotoxic potential against MNNG. Both rose products exerted genoprotective potential to a similar extent, decreasing the frequencies of aberrations in chromosomes and micronuclei to a significant degree in both types of cells when non-toxic concentrations of hydrosols were applied before MNNG. This was performed both with and without any inter-treatment time. The observed cytoprotective/genoprotective potential suggests that these hydrosols are promising for further application in phytotherapy and medicine.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Extracts and the Therapeutic Potential of Bioactive Compounds)
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Unveiling the Multifaceted Capabilities of Endophytic Aspergillus flavus Isolated from Annona squamosa Fruit Peels against Staphylococcus Isolates and HCoV 229E—In Vitro and In Silico Investigations
by
Noha Fathallah, Wafaa M. Elkady, Sara A. Zahran, Khaled M. Darwish, Sameh S. Elhady and Yasmin A. Elkhawas
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050656 - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Recently, there has been a surge towards searching for primitive treatment strategies to discover novel therapeutic approaches against multi-drug-resistant pathogens. Endophytes are considered unexplored yet perpetual sources of several secondary metabolites with therapeutic significance. This study aims to isolate and identify the endophytic
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Recently, there has been a surge towards searching for primitive treatment strategies to discover novel therapeutic approaches against multi-drug-resistant pathogens. Endophytes are considered unexplored yet perpetual sources of several secondary metabolites with therapeutic significance. This study aims to isolate and identify the endophytic fungi from Annona squamosa L. fruit peels using morphological, microscopical, and transcribed spacer (ITS-rDNA) sequence analysis; extract the fungus’s secondary metabolites by ethyl acetate; investigate the chemical profile using UPLC/MS; and evaluate the potential antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antiviral activities. An endophytic fungus was isolated and identified as Aspergillus flavus L. from the fruit peels. The UPLC/MS revealed seven compounds with various chemical classes. The antimicrobial activity of the fungal ethyl acetate extract (FEA) was investigated against different Gram-positive and Gram-negative standard strains, in addition to resistant clinical isolates using the agar diffusion method. The CPE-inhibition assay was used to identify the potential antiviral activity of the crude fungal extract against low pathogenic human coronavirus (HCoV 229E). Selective Gram-positive antibacterial and antibiofilm activities were evident, demonstrating pronounced efficacy against both methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). However, the extract exhibited very weak activity against Gram-negative bacterial strains. The ethyl acetate extract of Aspergillus flavus L exhibited an interesting antiviral activity with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 27.2 µg/mL against HCoV 229E. Furthermore, in silico virtual molecular docking-coupled dynamics simulation highlighted the promising affinity of the identified metabolite, orienting towards three MRSA biotargets and HCoV 229E main protease as compared to reported reference inhibitors/substrates. Finally, ADME analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential oral bioavailability of the identified metabolites.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterocyclic Compounds in Medicinal Chemistry)
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Exploring the Potential Biological Activities of Pyrazole-Based Schiff Bases as Anti-Diabetic, Anti-Alzheimer’s, Anti-Inflammatory, and Cytotoxic Agents: In Vitro Studies with Computational Predictions
by
Ahmed M. Naglah, Abdulrahman A. Almehizia, Asma S. Al-Wasidi, Amirah Senaitan Alharbi, Mohammed H. Alqarni, Ashraf S. Hassan and Wael M. Aboulthana
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050655 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
In this innovative research, we aim to reveal pyrazole-based Schiff bases as new multi-target agents. In this context, we re-synthesized three sets of pyrazole-based Schiff bases, 5a–f, 6a–f, and 7a–f, to evaluate their biological
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In this innovative research, we aim to reveal pyrazole-based Schiff bases as new multi-target agents. In this context, we re-synthesized three sets of pyrazole-based Schiff bases, 5a–f, 6a–f, and 7a–f, to evaluate their biological applications. The data from in vitro biological assays (including antioxidant and scavenging activities, anti-diabetes, anti-Alzheimer’s, and anti-inflammatory properties) of the pyrazole-based Schiff bases 5a–f, 6a–f, and 7a–f showed that the six pyrazole-based Schiff bases 5a, 5d, 5e, 5f, 7a, and 7f possess the highest biological properties among the compounds evaluated. The cytotoxicity against lung (A549) and colon (Caco-2) human cancer types, as well as normal lung (WI-38) cell lines, was evaluated. The data from the cytotoxicity investigation demonstrated that the three Schiff bases 5d, 5e, and 7a are active against lung (A549) cells, while the two Schiff bases 5e and 7a exhibited the highest cytotoxicity towards colon (Caco-2) cells. Additionally, the enzymatic activities against caspase-3 and Bcl-2 of the six pyrazole-based Schiff bases 5a, 5d, 5e, 5f, 7a, and 7f were evaluated. Furthermore, we assessed the in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, and toxicity (ADMT) properties of the more potent pyrazole-based Schiff bases. After modifying the structures of the six pyrazole-based Schiff bases, we plan to further extend the studies in the future.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pyrazole and Thiazole Derivatives in Medicinal Chemistry)
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Enhanced Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Tilianin Based on the Novel Amorphous Nanocrystals
by
Min Sun, Mengran Guo, Zhongshan He, Yaoyao Luo, Xi He, Chuansheng Huang, Yong Yuan, Yunli Zhao, Xiangrong Song and Xinchun Wang
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050654 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Tilianin (Til), a flavonoid glycoside, is well-known for its therapeutic promise in treating inflammatory disorders. Its poor water solubility and permeability limit its clinical applicability. In order to overcome these restrictions, an antisolvent precipitation and ultrasonication technique was used to prepare amorphous tilianin
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Tilianin (Til), a flavonoid glycoside, is well-known for its therapeutic promise in treating inflammatory disorders. Its poor water solubility and permeability limit its clinical applicability. In order to overcome these restrictions, an antisolvent precipitation and ultrasonication technique was used to prepare amorphous tilianin nanocrystals (Til NCs). We have adjusted the organic solvents, oil-to-water ratio, stabilizer composition, and ultrasonic power and time by combining single-factor and central composite design (CCD) methodologies. The features of Til NCs were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning calorimetry (DSC), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Specifically, the optimized Til NCs were needle-like with a particle size ranging from 90 to 130 nm. PVA (0.3%, w/v) and TPGS (0.08%, w/v) stabilized them well. For at least two months, these Til NCs stayed amorphous and showed an impressive stability at 4 °C and 25 °C. Remarkably, Til NCs dissolved almost 20 times faster in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) than they did in crude Til. In RAW264.7 cells, Til NCs also showed a better cellular absorption as well as safety and protective qualities. Til NCs were shown to drastically lower reactive oxygen species (ROS), TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in anti-inflammatory experiments, while increasing IL-10 levels and encouraging M1 macrophages to adopt the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Our results highlight the potential of amorphous Til NCs as a viable approach to improve Til’s anti-inflammatory effectiveness, solubility, and dissolving rate.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Technology)
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Testing of Anti-EMT, Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Activities of 2′,4′-Dimethoxychalcone
by
Peiling Zhao, Mengzhen Xu, Kai Gong, Kaihui Lu, Chen Ruan, Xin Yu, Jiang Zhu, Haixing Guan and Qingjun Zhu
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050653 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Chalcone (1,3-diaryl-2-propen-1-one) is an α, β-unsaturated ketone that serves as an active constituent or precursor of numerous natural substances, exhibiting a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects. In this study, the classical Claisen–Schmidt condensation method was used to synthesize the chalcone derivative 2′,4′-dimethoxychalcone (DTC)
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Chalcone (1,3-diaryl-2-propen-1-one) is an α, β-unsaturated ketone that serves as an active constituent or precursor of numerous natural substances, exhibiting a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects. In this study, the classical Claisen–Schmidt condensation method was used to synthesize the chalcone derivative 2′,4′-dimethoxychalcone (DTC) and evaluate its pharmacological activity. By upregulating the expression of the epithelial cell marker E-cadherin and downregulating the expression of the mesenchymal cell marker vimentin, DTC was found to inhibit transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in A549 cells, maintaining the cells’ epithelial-like morphology and reducing the ability of the cells to migrate. Additionally, DTC demonstrated the ability to decrease the expression levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in RAW264.7 cells, suggesting a possible anti-inflammatory effect. Furthermore, DTC was found to exhibit bacteriostatic activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Proteus vulgaris (P. vulgaris), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Candida albicans (C. albicans), indicating that this chemical may possess broad-spectrum antibacterial activity.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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