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22 pages, 614 KB  
Article
Metabolic and Inflammatory Adverse Drug Reactions Associated with Amlodipine: A Descriptive and Disproportionality Analysis of EudraVigilance Reports
by Crina Cristina Solomon, Anca Butuca, Adina Frum, Carmen Maximiliana Dobrea, Claudiu Morgovan, Nastaca Alina Palade, Alina Liliana Pintea, Dragoș Anton Dădârlat, Steliana Ghibu, Florina Batar, Mariana Cornelia Tilinca and Felicia Gabriela Gligor
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(8), 1177; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19081177 - 27 Jul 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The global rise in obesity-related hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and chronic inflammation calls for a precise characterization of the safety profiles of first-line therapies. While amlodipine is considered metabolically neutral, its real-world impact on dysglycemia and inflammatory biomarkers remains incompletely defined. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The global rise in obesity-related hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and chronic inflammation calls for a precise characterization of the safety profiles of first-line therapies. While amlodipine is considered metabolically neutral, its real-world impact on dysglycemia and inflammatory biomarkers remains incompletely defined. This study aims to characterize the metabolic and inflammatory adverse drug reaction profile of amlodipine, using the EudraVigilance database. Methods: Descriptive and disproportionality analyses were performed on 41,872 Individual Case Safety Reports recorded prior to 17 May 2026. Amlodipine was compared against major antihypertensive classes (beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, sartans, and diuretics), calculating reporting odds ratios (ROR) and 95% confidence intervals. Results: “Hyperglycaemia” could be considered a safety signal for amlodipine, compared to beta-blockers (e.g., bisoprolol—ROR: 2.56), ACE inhibitors (e.g., ramipril—ROR: 2.82), and sartans (e.g., candesartan—ROR: 3.85). “Metabolic syndrome” was reported for amlodipine with a lower probability than for hydrochlorothiazide (ROR: 0.35). Inflammatory signals (e.g., increased C-reactive protein) appeared less frequently for amlodipine than for certain renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors (e.g., perindopril—ROR: 0.53). Conclusions: The disproportionality analysis identified relatively lower reporting frequencies for several metabolic and inflammatory adverse drug reactions, compared with selected antihypertensive agents. These findings represent pharmacovigilance signals that warrant further investigation in analytical epidemiological and clinical studies. Although hyperglycemia was reported disproportionally relative to several comparator drugs, reports of T2DM were less frequently reported for amlodipine. However, these observations should not be interpreted as evidence of differences in clinical risk, because disproportionality analyses cannot establish incidence or causality. Reports of inflammation likely reflect patient comorbidities rather than a direct drug effect. These findings demonstrate that post-marketing surveillance remains essential, even when accounting for the methodological limitations of spontaneous reporting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Adverse Drug Reactions: 3rd Edition)
17 pages, 2920 KB  
Article
Developing Potential Endocrine Therapy Controlling Estradiol and DHT by Targeting 17β-HSD7 Against ER+ Breast Cancer
by Ruixuan Wang, Xiaoqiang Wang, Peng Su, Jenny Roy, Donald Poirier and Sheng-Xiang Lin
Cells 2026, 15(15), 1345; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15151345 - 27 Jul 2026
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most incidental cancer in women. Patients’ living conditions and survival rates have significantly improved with the success of two first-line endocrine therapies of selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs from 1977) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs from 1995). Unfortunately, both therapies [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is the most incidental cancer in women. Patients’ living conditions and survival rates have significantly improved with the success of two first-line endocrine therapies of selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs from 1977) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs from 1995). Unfortunately, both therapies have produced significant resistance. AI resistance reaches 50% in metastatic estrogen-dependent BC cases, leading oncologists to seek a substitute for current therapies. We target the reductive 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 7 (17β-HSD7), which stimulates the synthesis of the active estrogen estradiol (E2) and reduces the potent androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) simultaneously, triggering negative feedback on 17β-HSD7 expression. INH7(464), an improved 17β-HSD7 inhibitor, efficiently blocks estrogen conversion at an IC50 of 92 ± 8 nM. INH7(464) inhibited cell proliferation by decreasing E2 levels and restoring DHT, successively arresting the cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. In vivo, INH7(464) reduced tumor size by 49% on Day 22 in BC xenografts with T47D. INH7(464) reduced E2 levels in mouse blood circulation and xenograft tumor tissue. There is no demonstrated cytotoxicity or cardiotoxicity of INH7(464) on cellular levels and mouse models under the experimental conditions. 17β-HSD7 is a potential target for estrogen-dependent BC therapy, while INH7(464) is promising for a preclinical lead compound (PCT/CA2022/050966). Full article
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29 pages, 5292 KB  
Article
QSAR-ML- and Metadynamics-Guided Design of Symmetrical Bis-Indanones to Overcome Mutational Anchor Loss in Acetylcholinesterase
by Ghazala Muteeb, Shrikant S. Nilewar, Mohammad Aatif and Tushar Janardan Pawar
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(8), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19081169 - 26 Jul 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Symmetrical dual-site acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors offer a compelling strategy to mitigate mutational drug resistance, yet static modeling fails to capture induced-fit dynamics under mutational stress. Methods: Here, a 100,000-compound virtual library was filtered using a machine learning-based QSAR classification pipeline. A strict, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Symmetrical dual-site acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors offer a compelling strategy to mitigate mutational drug resistance, yet static modeling fails to capture induced-fit dynamics under mutational stress. Methods: Here, a 100,000-compound virtual library was filtered using a machine learning-based QSAR classification pipeline. A strict, empirically calibrated Jaccard applicability domain filter (AD = 0.823) eliminated topological anomalies, yielding a robust cross-validation accuracy (ROC-AUC: 0.80 ± 0.05; independent test MCC: 0.61). Multi-parameter ADMET and shape screening prioritized unique chemotypes to probe the 20 Å enzyme gorge. All-atom explicit-solvent molecular dynamics simulations were coupled with 150 ns enhanced-sampling Metadynamics along two orthogonal collective variables (gorge depth and ligand orientation) to map out the free energy surfaces under mutational stress. Results: Symmetrical probes suffered catastrophic unbinding upon anchor loss. Conversely, the symmetrical core of Lead Compound 1631 demonstrated extraordinary structural resilience. In silico site-directed mutagenesis (W86A and W286A) triggered a thermodynamic locking effect; the W86A mutant forced the complex into a deeper energetic well (ΔGmin = 9.23 ± 1.98 kJ/mol) than the wild-type state (5.26 ± 1.69 kJ/mol). MM/GBSA decomposition confirmed an active electrostatic-solvation compensation mechanism along a “solvation see-saw” diagonal (ΔΔGtotal = +1.59 kcal/mol). Finally, Dynamic Cross-Correlation Matrix analysis quantified a mechanical inversion of the CAS-PAS axis into an anti-correlated clamping mode (−0.04) that locked the ligand bridge in place. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that symmetrical dual-site targeting, combined with dynamic thermodynamic locking, provides a resilient framework to overcome mutational resistance in AChE inhibitors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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11 pages, 15145 KB  
Case Report
Breaking the Cycle of Polypharmacy: A Case Report of Renal Denervation in Resistant Hypertension
by Maria Szwarkowska, Tymoteusz Petela, Aleksander Zeliaś, Tomasz Skowerski and Tomasz Tokarek
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(15), 5838; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15155838 - 26 Jul 2026
Abstract
Background: Resistant hypertension poses a significant therapeutic challenge, often leading to severe polypharmacy. Renal denervation (RDN) has re-emerged as a valuable adjunctive intervention for blood pressure control. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 64-year-old man (body mass index [BMI] [...] Read more.
Background: Resistant hypertension poses a significant therapeutic challenge, often leading to severe polypharmacy. Renal denervation (RDN) has re-emerged as a valuable adjunctive intervention for blood pressure control. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 64-year-old man (body mass index [BMI] 34 kg/m2) with long-standing resistant hypertension (RH), after previous percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to the left anterior descending artery, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and prior nephron-sparing surgery for clear cell renal carcinoma. Despite treatment with an extensive antihypertensive regimen encompassing nine pharmacological classes including diuretic therapy (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor; calcium channel blocker, thiazide diuretic, β-blocker, α1-blocker, central α2-agonist, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, loop diuretic, long-acting nitrates), blood pressure remained severely uncontrolled on both home and office measurements. Persistent hypertension was accompanied by exertional dyspnoea and episodes of exertional chest discomfort. Following comprehensive evaluation and exclusion of secondary causes of hypertension, the patient underwent catheter-based renal denervation using the SymplicitySpyral™ (Medtronic) multi-electrode radiofrequency system. The procedure was associated with substantial and sustained improvement in blood pressure control, with mean 24 h ambulatory blood pressure measurements decreasing to 130/80 mmHg at six-month follow-up. Importantly, successful blood pressure reduction enabled major simplification of pharmacotherapy, including complete discontinuation of clonidine, loop diuretic therapy, and long-acting nitrates, together with marked dose reduction in doxazosin. Conclusions: This case illustrates the potential clinical utility of renal denervation in carefully selected patients with true resistant hypertension and pronounced sympathetic overactivity. Beyond achieving satisfactory blood pressure control, RDN may facilitate meaningful reduction in medication burden, potentially improving treatment adherence, quality of life, and long-term cardiovascular risk. Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for both the procedure and the publication of this case report. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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60 pages, 2649 KB  
Review
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Azolo[a]quinoxalines
by Emiliya V. Nosova, Galina N. Lipunova and Valery N. Charushin
Molecules 2026, 31(15), 2592; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31152592 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 64
Abstract
This review covers published data (mostly from 2019 to 2025) on the synthesis and biological activity of azolo[a]quinoxalines, including pyrazolo-, imidazo- and triazolo-annelated systems. We highlight that most research efforts are directed toward the design of anticancer agents, with additional applications [...] Read more.
This review covers published data (mostly from 2019 to 2025) on the synthesis and biological activity of azolo[a]quinoxalines, including pyrazolo-, imidazo- and triazolo-annelated systems. We highlight that most research efforts are directed toward the design of anticancer agents, with additional applications as Toll-like receptor antagonists, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, opioid receptor modulators, PI3Kα inhibitors, tubulin polymerization inhibitors, GABAᴀ receptor modulators, VEGFR-2 kinase inhibitors, BRD9 binders, and anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal agents. Recent synthetic strategies include Cu-catalyzed oxidative annulations, I2-mediated C–H functionalization, metal-free cascade cyclization, and multicomponent reactions, often employing eco-friendly catalysts and reductants. A growing number of studies integrate virtual screening, molecular docking, and pharmacophore-based in silico approaches to guide lead discovery and optimization. Innovative drug delivery systems, such as nanogels and hybrid molecules combining azoloquinoxalines with pharmacophores like thalidomide, have also been explored. This review emphasizes both the medicinal chemistry aspects of azolo[a]quinoxalines and the synthetic methodologies for their preparation from the perspective of drug development and discovery. Full article
36 pages, 1480 KB  
Review
Current Research in Polypharmacology for Cancer Treatment Using Dual-Target Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors
by Pavel Yudaev, Yulia Aleksandrova and Margarita Neganova
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(15), 6604; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27156604 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 72
Abstract
The review covers research on dual-target antitumor agents over the past five years. One of the targets is histone deacetylases (HDACs), while the second potential target is a protein group located both on the membrane surface (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), [...] Read more.
The review covers research on dual-target antitumor agents over the past five years. One of the targets is histone deacetylases (HDACs), while the second potential target is a protein group located both on the membrane surface (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), receptor tyrosine kinase (AXL), tyrosine protein kinase (HER2), FMS-like tyrosine kinase (FLT3), and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR2)) and in the nucleus (serine/threonine protein kinase Wee1, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), dual-specificity phosphatase (CDC25A), an enzyme from the cyclin-dependent kinase family (CDK9), dual-specificity tyrosine-serine/threonine kinase (DYRK2), and BET family proteins (BRD4, BD1, and BD2)). This review presents the results of studies on the inhibitory activity of various HDAC isoforms and other enzymes, as well as in vitro cytotoxicity studies on both neoplastic and healthy cells. It also includes selectivity studies, in vivo experiments (changes in tumor volume in mice) and oral bioavailability assessments. The review also describes the chemical structures of several dual-target agents and identifies the molecular fragments responsible for inhibiting different targets. Based on the studies reviewed in this paper, it can be concluded that some dual inhibitors have superior in vitro cytotoxicity and exhibit selectivity towards some tumor cells compared to monofunctional reference compounds. These findings may be useful for molecular design in the field of polypharmacology, with the aim of developing new dual-target molecules that exhibit improved antitumor activity and selectivity towards neoplastic cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein–Protein Interactions in Human Cancer)
16 pages, 1264 KB  
Review
Drug–Drug Interactions Between Oral Anticoagulants and Calcineurin Inhibitors in Nephrotic Syndrome for Management of Thromboembolism
by Toshinori Hirai and Kan Katayama
Biomedicines 2026, 14(8), 1666; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14081666 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 177
Abstract
Thromboembolism is a life-threatening complication of nephrotic syndrome, which is treated with oral anticoagulants (warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants [DOACs]) that possess a variety of pharmacokinetic characteristics. This narrative review focused on drug–drug interactions between oral anticoagulants and calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) (e.g., tacrolimus, [...] Read more.
Thromboembolism is a life-threatening complication of nephrotic syndrome, which is treated with oral anticoagulants (warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants [DOACs]) that possess a variety of pharmacokinetic characteristics. This narrative review focused on drug–drug interactions between oral anticoagulants and calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) (e.g., tacrolimus, cyclosporine, and voclosporin) for the management of thromboembolism in nephrotic syndrome. While warfarin has less potential for interacting with CNIs, DOACs carry a risk of drug–drug interactions with CNIs owing to the inhibition of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters, including cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and P-glycoprotein. Specifically, a significant increase in DOAC exposure was observed when DOACs were co-administered with cyclosporine, a more potent P-glycoprotein inhibitor than tacrolimus. Limited evidence suggests that more pronounced drug interactions occur in specific cases: (1) apixaban and CNIs in patients with renal impairment, (2) edoxaban combined with cyclosporine in patients with renal impairment, and (3) a combination of rivaroxaban with dual inhibitors of P-glycoprotein and CYP3A4 (e.g., cyclosporine and fluconazole). From a pharmacological viewpoint, CNI-induced nephrotoxicity and hypertension may increase the risk of critical bleeding in patients receiving DOACs. In addition, the variation factors of pharmacokinetic parameters, such as renal function, pharmacogenomic profiles, and pathophysiological changes directly caused by nephrotic syndrome, may vary between patients, which could potentially augment the magnitude of drug–drug interactions between oral anticoagulants and CNIs. Further studies are required to understand the clinical significance of drug interactions in patients with nephrotic syndrome. Full article
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19 pages, 3012 KB  
Article
Effect of the Proteasome Inhibitor, Bortezomib, on Histone Modifications in Human Leukemic Cell Lines
by Hedieh Sattarifard, Marvellous Oyeyode, Dhanvi Prajapati, Angela Duaqui, Gurlovleen Kaur, Ishdeep Muker, Wenxia Luo, Ted M. Lakowski and James R. Davie
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(15), 6597; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27156597 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 204
Abstract
Histone-modifying enzymes and histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) play key roles in the organization (euchromatin versus heterochromatin) and function (active versus silenced genes) of chromatin. The abundance and activity of these enzymes, along with their associated histone PTMs, are often altered in cancer cells, [...] Read more.
Histone-modifying enzymes and histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) play key roles in the organization (euchromatin versus heterochromatin) and function (active versus silenced genes) of chromatin. The abundance and activity of these enzymes, along with their associated histone PTMs, are often altered in cancer cells, leading to deregulated gene expression. The expression of the KMT2A-MLLT3 protein, resulting from a chromosomal translocation in mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL), a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia, augments transcription elongation, promoting the expression of HOXA9 and MEIS1, genes that play critical roles in MLL development. Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, has been effective at treating various cancers. In this study, we compared the impact of bortezomib on histone PTMs in the MLL cell line MOLM-13 and the chronic myeloid leukemic (CML) cell line K562. We report that MOLM-13 had a greater level of histone H2B monoubiquitinated at lysine 120 (H2BK120ub) and histone H3 dimethylated at lysine 79 (H3K79me2) (modifications involved in elongation) and similar levels of histone H2A monoubiquitinated at lysine 119 (H2AK119ub). Bortezomib treatment resulted in significant reductions in H2BK120ub and H2AK119ub levels, as well as in transcript levels of genes involved in MLL development. Full article
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14 pages, 3314 KB  
Article
Impact of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEIs) on the Efficacy of Immunotherapy in Metastatic NSCLC
by Samer Abu-Rafe, Noa Shani Shrem, Abed Agbarya, Asmah Miari, Ronen Brenner, Yulia Dudnik, Ashraf Abu Jama, Sondos Shalata, Keren Rouvinov, Nashat Abu Yasin, Lama Tourkey, Adan Khalaily, Raya Bdair, Alexander Yakobson, Natalie Maimon Rabinovich and Walid Shalata
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(4), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14040420 - 23 Jul 2026
Viewed by 193
Abstract
Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have significantly improved outcomes in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), yet only a subset of patients derives durable benefit, suggesting that host and tumor-related factors may modify treatment efficacy. The renin–angiotensin system has been implicated in regulation [...] Read more.
Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have significantly improved outcomes in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), yet only a subset of patients derives durable benefit, suggesting that host and tumor-related factors may modify treatment efficacy. The renin–angiotensin system has been implicated in regulation of the tumor microenvironment, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) have therefore been proposed as potential modulators of immunotherapy response. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study including patients with advanced metastatic NSCLC treated in the first-line setting with treatment-based immunotherapy, with or without chemotherapy, between January 2017 and September 2025. Chronic ACEI exposure was defined as continuous use for at least two years prior to initiation of immunotherapy. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier estimates and compared using the log-rank test, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were adjusted. Results: Among 446 eligible patients, 71 (16%) received ACEIs and 375 (84%) did not. The median age of the cohort was 67.5 years, and 70% were male. Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histology (67.7%), and most patients received chemo–immunotherapy (81.6%), while 18.4% received immunotherapy alone. PD-L1 expression ≥ 1% was present in 59.2% of patients. In the overall cohort, median PFS and OS were 12 and 15 months, respectively. Median OS was 17 months in the ACEI group compared with 14 months in the non-ACEI group (log-rank p < 0.047), while median PFS was 14 months versus 11 months, respectively (p = 0.066). The survival advantage was more pronounced for OS than for PFS and remained consistent after adjustment for clinical characteristics including age, sex, ECOG performance status, smoking status, histology, treatment regimen, and PD-L1 expression. Conclusions: These findings suggest that chronic ACE inhibitor use may be associated with improved outcomes in metastatic NSCLC patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer and Cancer-Related Research)
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12 pages, 1086 KB  
Article
Phosphatase Activities of a Highly Stable High-Molecular-Mass Multiprotein Complex Isolated from Different Organs of the Sea Cucumber Paracaudina chilensis
by Svetlana E. Soboleva, Nadejda A. Maltseva, Pavel S. Dmitrenok and Georgy A. Nevinsky
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(14), 6533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27146533 - 22 Jul 2026
Viewed by 147
Abstract
In recent years, a novel class of highly stable multiprotein complexes, with molecular masses ranging from 1 to 2 MDa, has been identified in human milk, placenta, sea urchin eggs, and sea cucumbers. These complexes exhibit extraordinary stability, dissociating only under stringent conditions [...] Read more.
In recent years, a novel class of highly stable multiprotein complexes, with molecular masses ranging from 1 to 2 MDa, has been identified in human milk, placenta, sea urchin eggs, and sea cucumbers. These complexes exhibit extraordinary stability, dissociating only under stringent conditions involving 8 M urea, 3 M MgCl2, EDTA, and DTT. Previous investigations have demonstrated that complexes derived from different organs of the sea cucumber Paracaudina chilensis differ in size, molecular mass, and protein/peptide composition; however, their enzymatic activities have remained unexplored. In the present work, we performed the first systematic analysis of phosphatase activity associated with highly stable complexes isolated from five organs of P. chilensis: the body wall, gonads, respiratory trees, intestine, and coelomic fluid. Complexes were purified via gel filtration chromatography on Sepharose 4B, followed by ultracentrifugation. Phosphatase activity was determined spectrophotometrically by monitoring the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl phosphate. Our results indicate that all five complexes harbor phosphatases with optimal pH values spanning 7.0 to 10.0. Alkaline phosphatases (pH 9.0–10.0) displayed pronounced organ specificity: maximal activity was observed in the intestinal complex, whereas minimal activity was detected in the gonadal complex. Phosphatase activity in complexes from the body wall and respiratory trees exhibited a bell-shaped dependence on Mg2+ concentration, with optima at 5 mM and 1 mM, respectively; in contrast, activity in the intestinal and coelomic fluid complexes increased to a plateau at 5–10 mM Mg2+. Ca2+ ions predominantly inhibited activity, with the notable exception of the intestinal complex, where they exerted no effect on hydrolysis. EDTA treatment resulted in complete inactivation of the enzymes in most complexes; however, intestinal activity was retained at 50% even at high chelator concentrations, suggesting the presence of a metal-independent phosphatase. Collectively, these data indicate that the stable multiprotein complexes of P. chilensis contain an organ-specific repertoire of phosphatases that differ in pH optimum, metal ion dependence, and inhibitor sensitivity. These findings open new avenues for understanding the roles of such complexes in organ-specific physiological functions and regenerative mechanisms in echinoderms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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38 pages, 3811 KB  
Review
Chalcones as a Versatile Antiviral Scaffold: Molecular Targets, ADMET Profiles, and Translational Challenges
by Alvaro Luiz Helena, Patrick Rômbola Ozanique, Kevin Henrique Souza Lima, Wellington Negri Tondato, Victor Yukio Ichikawa Baio, Otávio Henrique Locateli Soares and Luis Octávio Regasini
Viruses 2026, 18(7), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18070806 - 22 Jul 2026
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Chalcones are naturally occurring open-chain flavonoids widely distributed in plants and recognized for their broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Their versatile scaffold allows for extensive structural modifications, leading to a diverse range of natural and synthetic derivatives with notable biological potential. In the [...] Read more.
Chalcones are naturally occurring open-chain flavonoids widely distributed in plants and recognized for their broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Their versatile scaffold allows for extensive structural modifications, leading to a diverse range of natural and synthetic derivatives with notable biological potential. In the context of viral infections, chalcones have demonstrated remarkable efficacy against a variety of human pathogens, including dengue virus, HIV, HCV, influenza A, SARS-CoV-2, and other emerging viruses. Beyond human health, several chalcones have shown potent activity against plant viruses such as tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), and animal viruses including porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and mammalian reovirus (MRV), underscoring their broad antiviral spectrum. These compounds act through multiple mechanisms, including the inhibition of viral enzymes (e.g., proteases, polymerases, and integrases), interference with viral entry and replication, and the modulation of host-related pathways. Recent advances in molecular docking, structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies, and synthetic optimization have further highlighted chalcones as a promising scaffold for antiviral drug discovery. Accordingly, this review summarizes and categorizes antiviral chalcones reported over the last two decades, emphasizing and critically discussing their molecular targets, mechanisms of action, and pharmacological potential as lead compounds. It also provides a comparative perspective on their pharmacological relevance by correlating their activities against standard therapeutic agents and reference inhibitors. Furthermore, the most recurrent viral targets were critically discussed regarding their conservation, expected genetic barriers to resistance, and the global SAR trends identified for the corresponding antiviral chalcones. Finally, in silico ADMET profiling of the most promising naturally occurring chalcones was performed to evaluate their drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties, offering guidance for future structural optimization and translational development. Collectively, these findings highlight the chalcone scaffold as a versatile platform for the development of novel antiviral agents targeting diverse viral and host pathways. Full article
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22 pages, 6474 KB  
Article
BIX02189 Suppresses Adipogenesis and Lipid Accumulation Through Inhibition of MEK5-STAT3/STAT5 Signaling and Activation of AMPK in Adipocytes and Zebrafish
by Nivethasri Lakshmana Perumal, Muneer Hussain, Dae-Gu Son, Jacqueline M. Stephens, Gi-Young Park and Byeong-Churl Jang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(14), 6468; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27146468 - 21 Jul 2026
Viewed by 121
Abstract
Obesity is a major metabolic disorder characterized by excessive lipid accumulation and adipocyte differentiation. The mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 5 (MEK5) signaling pathway has been implicated in diverse cellular processes; however, its role in adipogenesis remains incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated [...] Read more.
Obesity is a major metabolic disorder characterized by excessive lipid accumulation and adipocyte differentiation. The mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 5 (MEK5) signaling pathway has been implicated in diverse cellular processes; however, its role in adipogenesis remains incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the anti-adipogenic effects of BIX02189, a selective MEK5 inhibitor, using 3T3-L1 adipocytes, human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs), and zebrafish models. Treatment with BIX02189 significantly reduced lipid accumulation and triglyceride content during adipocyte differentiation in a dose-dependent manner without marked cytotoxicity. BIX02189 effectively suppressed MEK5 phosphorylation and downregulated the expression of key adipogenic transcription factors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBP-α). In addition, BIX02189 decreased the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and STAT5, as well as the expression of lipogenic markers such as fatty acid synthase (FAS), perilipin A, and leptin. Conversely, BIX02189 enhanced AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation and markedly reduced the protein and mRNA expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), a key enzyme involved in fatty acid synthesis. Similar anti-adipogenic effects were observed in hASCs. Furthermore, BIX02189 significantly attenuated lipid accumulation in a zebrafish obesity model without affecting body length or causing overt toxicity. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of MEK5 suppresses adipogenesis and lipid accumulation through regulation of the STAT3/STAT5–PPAR-γ axis and activation of AMPK signaling. These findings provide the first evidence that MEK5 inhibition exerts anti-adipogenic effects in adipocytes and zebrafish, highlighting the MEK5 signaling pathway as a previously unrecognized regulator of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity: From Cellular Mechanism to Potential Molecular Therapies)
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19 pages, 2566 KB  
Article
Alcohol Metabolism into Acetaldehyde in Developing Cerebral Arteries
by Rika M. Morales, Shiwani Thapa and Anna N. Bukiya
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(14), 6463; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27146463 - 21 Jul 2026
Viewed by 131
Abstract
Alcohol exposure during pregnancy leads to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), yet the mechanisms through which alcohol disrupts the developing cerebrovasculature remain poorly defined. Acetaldehyde, the first oxidative metabolite of alcohol, can alter vascular function, but whether developing cerebral arteries possess intrinsic capacity [...] Read more.
Alcohol exposure during pregnancy leads to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), yet the mechanisms through which alcohol disrupts the developing cerebrovasculature remain poorly defined. Acetaldehyde, the first oxidative metabolite of alcohol, can alter vascular function, but whether developing cerebral arteries possess intrinsic capacity to generate acetaldehyde is unknown. Alcohol is primarily oxidized by alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), and catalase (CAT), and their local metabolic activity may contribute to cerebrovascular vulnerability. In this study, cerebral arteries were isolated from postnatal day (PND) 10 C57BL/6J mouse offspring (third trimester-equivalent to human pregnancy), and incubated ex vivo with physiologically relevant alcohol concentrations (13 or 50 mM). Acetaldehyde generation, transcript expression, protein abundance, and catalase-dependent metabolism were evaluated. Alcohol exposure produced a concentration-dependent increase in acetaldehyde generation within developing cerebral arteries, with comparable responses between males and females. Transcript analysis revealed that Adh1, Cyp2e1, and Cat were expressed across developing tissues; however, Western blotting showed that catalase was the only alcohol-metabolizing enzyme detectable at the protein level within developing cerebral arteries. Accordingly, catalase inhibition by sodium azide altered acetaldehyde production, revealing a significant blocker–sex interaction at the higher inhibitor concentration (0.06 mM). In summary, our ex vivo findings demonstrate that developing cerebral arteries possess intrinsic metabolic capacity to oxidize alcohol to acetaldehyde and that catalase plays an essential role in supporting this process at this developmental stage. These results point to a previously unrecognized metabolic pathway within the developing cerebrovasculature that may potentially contribute to early-life vulnerability to alcohol exposure. Full article
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31 pages, 1103 KB  
Review
Microbiome-Targeted Modulation in Renal Transplantation
by Hans Michael Hau, Nora Jahn, Robert Karitnig, Sandro Michael Hasenhütl, Robert Sucher, Philipp Stiegler and Sven Laudi
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(14), 5648; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15145648 - 18 Jul 2026
Viewed by 175
Abstract
The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical determinant of health and disease across virtually all organ systems. In the context of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and renal transplantation, mounting evidence reveals a complex bidirectional relationship between the intestinal microbiota and kidney function—commonly [...] Read more.
The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical determinant of health and disease across virtually all organ systems. In the context of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and renal transplantation, mounting evidence reveals a complex bidirectional relationship between the intestinal microbiota and kidney function—commonly referred to as the gut–kidney axis. Patients with CKD harbor a profoundly altered gut microbial ecosystem characterized by reduced diversity, depletion of beneficial commensal organisms, and expansion of pathobiont taxa capable of generating uremic toxins and pro-inflammatory mediators. These perturbations are further compounded by the uremic milieu itself, dietary restrictions, frequent antibiotic exposure, and the use of immunosuppressive agents following transplantation. The gut–liver–kidney axis adds an additional layer of complexity, linking hepatic metabolism, bile acid signaling, endotoxemia, and systemic immune activation to the progression of renal disease. Gut-derived metabolites—including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and tryptophan-derived uremic solutes such as indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate—serve as molecular mediators of inter-organ crosstalk and have been identified as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets. A growing body of literature supports the diagnostic and prognostic utility of microbiome composition and its metabolic signatures in patients with CKD and those undergoing renal replacement therapy. Therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring microbial homeostasis—encompassing dietary interventions, prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), bile acid–based therapies, and novel pharmacological approaches—hold considerable promise for improving outcomes in CKD and transplant recipients. Importantly, the bidirectional relationship between immunosuppressive drugs and the gut microbiota has emerged as a clinically significant determinant of both microbial ecology and drug pharmacokinetics: each major immunosuppressive agent class—corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, mycophenolate mofetil, and mTOR inhibitors—induces characteristic dysbiotic patterns, while in turn, the microbiota modulates drug bioavailability through enzymatic biotransformation (notably bacterial beta-glucuronidase activity affecting mycophenolic acid enterohepatic recirculation) and modulation of host drug-metabolizing enzymes. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of microbiome dysbiosis in the setting of renal disease and transplantation, examines the mechanistic underpinnings of the gut–liver–kidney axis, details the multifaceted impact of dysbiosis on transplant outcomes—including allograft function and rejection, infection, post-transplant diabetes, and cardiovascular complications—and critically appraises the translational potential of microbiome-targeted interventions. We conclude by highlighting ongoing challenges and future directions toward personalized, microbiome-informed clinical care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Kidney Transplantation: 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 16473 KB  
Article
In Silico Docking and Spectroscopic Evaluation of a Thiocarbohydrazone Derivative: Structural Elucidation and Enzyme Inhibitory Mechanisms
by Maria Karatzia, Nikitas Georgiou, Ektoras Vasileios Apostolou, Eleftherios Papamichalis, Sophia C. Hayes, Thomas Mavromoustakos and Demeter Tzeli
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(7), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19071108 - 17 Jul 2026
Viewed by 281
Abstract
Objectives: Thiocarbohydrazones represent an important class of Schiff base derivatives with versatile chemical and biological properties. Methods: Herein, we present a combined in silico spectroscopic and molecular docking investigation of N′-benzylidenehydrazinecarbothiohydrazide (1). Results: Conformational docking studies were conducted against cathepsin B, acetylcholinesterase, HER2, [...] Read more.
Objectives: Thiocarbohydrazones represent an important class of Schiff base derivatives with versatile chemical and biological properties. Methods: Herein, we present a combined in silico spectroscopic and molecular docking investigation of N′-benzylidenehydrazinecarbothiohydrazide (1). Results: Conformational docking studies were conducted against cathepsin B, acetylcholinesterase, HER2, protein kinase C, and protein kinase A. The compound displayed favorable binding affinities and key interactions within the catalytic sites of all targets, with the strongest predicted binding observed for acetylcholinesterase. Notably, all conformers exhibited higher affinity for protein kinase C than the reference inhibitor balanol, and hydroxylation led to an approximately 10% enhancement in docking performance. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to analyze vibrational properties, and IR and Raman spectra were computed to elucidate structural features and conformational behavior. Conclusions: The integrated spectroscopic and docking analyses provide mechanistic insights into ligand–target interactions and support rational drug design. These findings identify thiocarbohydrazone derivatives as promising multi-target candidates for the development of enzyme inhibitors relevant to neurodegenerative, oncological, and inflammatory diseases. Full article
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