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33 pages, 4098 KiB  
Systematic Review
Pharmacological Inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synoviocytes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Preclinical)
by Tatiana Bobkova, Artem Bobkov and Yang Li
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081152 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Constitutive activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade underlies the aggressive phenotype of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, a quantitative synthesis of in vitro data on pathway inhibition remains lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to (i) aggregate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Constitutive activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling cascade underlies the aggressive phenotype of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, a quantitative synthesis of in vitro data on pathway inhibition remains lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to (i) aggregate standardized effects of pathway inhibitors on proliferation, apoptosis, migration/invasion, IL-6/IL-8 secretion, p-AKT, and LC3; (ii) assess heterogeneity and identify key moderators of variability, including stimulus type, cell source, and inhibitor class. Methods: PubMed, Europe PMC, and the Cochrane Library were searched up to 18 May 2025 (PROSPERO CRD420251058185). Twenty of 2684 screened records met eligibility. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed study quality with SciRAP. Standardized mean differences (Hedges g) were pooled using a Sidik–Jonkman random-effects model with Hartung–Knapp confidence intervals. Heterogeneity (τ2, I2), 95% prediction intervals, and meta-regression by cell type were calculated; robustness was tested with REML-HK, leave-one-out, and Baujat diagnostics. Results: PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibition markedly reduced proliferation (to –5.1 SD), IL-6 (–11.1 SD), and IL-8 (–6.5 SD) while increasing apoptosis (+2.7 SD). Fourteen of seventeen outcome clusters showed large effects (|g| ≥ 0.8), with low–moderate heterogeneity (I2 ≤ 35% in 11 clusters). Prediction intervals crossed zero only in small k-groups; sensitivity analyses shifted pooled estimates by ≤0.05 SD. p-AKT and p-mTOR consistently reflected functional changes and emerged as reliable pharmacodynamic markers. Conclusions: Targeted blockade of PI3K/AKT/mTOR robustly suppresses the proliferative and inflammatory phenotype of RA-FLSs, reaffirming this axis as a therapeutic target. The stability of estimates across multiple analytic scenarios enhances confidence in these findings and highlights p-AKT and p-mTOR as translational response markers. The present synthesis provides a quantitative basis for personalized dual-PI3K/mTOR strategies and supports the adoption of standardized long-term preclinical protocols. Full article
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27 pages, 17405 KiB  
Article
Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Piperacillin/Tazobactam in Healthy Adults and Exploration of Optimal Dosing Strategies
by Yun Jung Lee, Gaeun Kang, Dae Young Zang and Dong Hwan Lee
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1124; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081124 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Current dosing recommendations for piperacillin/tazobactam suggest adjustments only for patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) below 40 mL/min, potentially neglecting the variability in drug exposure among patients with a CrCl greater than 40 mL/min. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Current dosing recommendations for piperacillin/tazobactam suggest adjustments only for patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) below 40 mL/min, potentially neglecting the variability in drug exposure among patients with a CrCl greater than 40 mL/min. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model for piperacillin/tazobactam and explore optimal dosage regimens tailored by renal function and pathogen susceptibility. Methods: Twelve healthy adults received a single intravenous dose of piperacillin/tazobactam (4 g/0.5 g). Population PK models were developed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to identify optimal dosing regimens across various renal functions and MIC levels, guided by pharmacodynamic targets defined as the percentage of time that free drug concentrations exceed the minimum inhibitory concentration (fT>MIC). Results: PK profiles of both drugs were best described by two-compartment models. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) adjusted by body surface area and body weight were identified as significant covariates influencing drug clearance and peripheral volume of distribution. Simulations showed that the standard dosing regimen (4/0.5 g q6h with 30 min infusion) achieved a 90% probability of target attainment (PTA) for 50%fT>MIC at MIC values up to 4 mg/L in patients with normal renal function. However, this regimen often did not achieve a 90% PTA for stringent targets (100%fT>MIC, 100%fT>4MIC) or higher MICs, particularly in patients with eGFR ≥ 130 mL/min. Conclusions: These findings suggest current dosing regimens may be inadequate and highlight the potential of alternative strategies, such as extended or continuous infusion, which warrant further investigation in clinical populations to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Adverse Drug Reactions: 2nd Edition)
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39 pages, 2934 KiB  
Review
Phytocannabinoids as Novel SGLT2 Modulators for Renal Glucose Reabsorption in Type 2 Diabetes Management
by Raymond Rubianto Tjandrawinata, Dante Saksono Harbuwono, Sidartawan Soegondo, Nurpudji Astuti Taslim and Fahrul Nurkolis
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081101 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 403
Abstract
Background: Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have transformed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management by promoting glucosuria, lowering glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure, and weight; however, their use is limited by genitourinary infections and ketoacidosis. Phytocannabinoids—bioactive compounds from Cannabis sativa—exhibit multi-target [...] Read more.
Background: Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have transformed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management by promoting glucosuria, lowering glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure, and weight; however, their use is limited by genitourinary infections and ketoacidosis. Phytocannabinoids—bioactive compounds from Cannabis sativa—exhibit multi-target pharmacology, including interactions with cannabinoid receptors, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs), Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels, and potentially SGLT2. Objective: To evaluate the potential of phytocannabinoids as novel modulators of renal glucose reabsorption via SGLT2 and to compare their efficacy, safety, and pharmacological profiles with synthetic SGLT2 inhibitors. Methods: We performed a narrative review encompassing the following: (1) the molecular and physiological roles of SGLT2; (2) chemical classification, natural sources, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of major phytocannabinoids (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol or Δ9-THC, Cannabidiol or CBD, Cannabigerol or CBG, Cannabichromene or CBC, Tetrahydrocannabivarin or THCV, and β-caryophyllene); (3) in silico docking and drug-likeness assessments; (4) in vitro assays of receptor binding, TRP channel modulation, and glucose transport; (5) in vivo rodent models evaluating glycemic control, weight change, and organ protection; (6) pilot clinical studies of THCV and case reports of CBD/BCP; (7) comparative analysis with established synthetic inhibitors. Results: In silico studies identify high-affinity binding of several phytocannabinoids within the SGLT2 substrate pocket. In vitro, CBG and THCV modulate SGLT2-related pathways indirectly via TRP channels and CB receptors; direct IC50 values for SGLT2 remain to be determined. In vivo, THCV and CBD demonstrate glucose-lowering, insulin-sensitizing, weight-reducing, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective effects. Pilot clinical data (n = 62) show that THCV decreases fasting glucose, enhances β-cell function, and lacks psychoactive side effects. Compared to synthetic inhibitors, phytocannabinoids offer pleiotropic benefits but face challenges of low oral bioavailability, polypharmacology, inter-individual variability, and limited large-scale trials. Discussion: While preclinical and early clinical data highlight phytocannabinoids’ potential in SGLT2 modulation and broader metabolic improvement, their translation is impeded by significant challenges. These include low oral bioavailability, inconsistent pharmacokinetic profiles, and the absence of standardized formulations, necessitating advanced delivery system development. Furthermore, the inherent polypharmacology of these compounds, while beneficial, demands comprehensive safety assessments for potential off-target effects and drug interactions. The scarcity of large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials and the need for clear regulatory frameworks remain critical hurdles. Addressing these aspects is paramount to fully realize the therapeutic utility of phytocannabinoids as a comprehensive approach to T2DM management. Conclusion: Phytocannabinoids represent promising multi-target agents for T2DM through potential SGLT2 modulation and complementary metabolic effects. Future work should focus on pharmacokinetic optimization, precise quantification of SGLT2 inhibition, and robust clinical trials to establish efficacy and safety profiles relative to synthetic inhibitors. Full article
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12 pages, 2911 KiB  
Article
A pH-Sensitive Glutathione Responsive Small-Molecule Probe TZ2 Sensitizes Lung Cancer Cells to Chemotherapy by Targeting Tumor Microenvironment
by Changle Zhong, Minghan Lu, Guanhao Pan, Xintong You, Yan Peng, Shulan Zeng and Guohai Zhang
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3081; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153081 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 173
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment plays an important role in tumor incidence, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. Novel therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor microenvironment have become a research focus in the field of biomedicine. In this study, we developed a smart small-molecule probe, TZ2, featuring [...] Read more.
The tumor microenvironment plays an important role in tumor incidence, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. Novel therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor microenvironment have become a research focus in the field of biomedicine. In this study, we developed a smart small-molecule probe, TZ2, featuring pH/GSH dual-responsive characteristics. TZ2 exhibits a unique pH-dependent reaction mechanism: GSH is preferentially covalently modified with maleimide groups in acidic microenvironments (pH < 7), while specifically activating nucleophilic substitutions under alkaline conditions (pH > 7). It is worth noting that TZ2 effectively eliminates intracellular glutathione (GSH) in a time and concentration-dependent manner, demonstrating significant GSH depletion ability in various tumor cell lines. Pharmacodynamic studies have shown that TZ2 not only inhibits the cell cycle by regulating the expression of cell cycle-related proteins, but also effectively suppresses the cloning ability of cancer cells. Furthermore, TZ2 significantly increases the sensitivity of drug-resistant cancer cells to cisplatin. By integrating microenvironment modulation, real-time monitoring, and synergistic therapy, TZ2 provides a novel molecular tool and theoretical basis for tumor theranostics integration. Full article
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13 pages, 672 KiB  
Review
Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics-Based Repositioning of Cefmetazole and Flomoxef in Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales Treatment: An Injectable Carbapenem-Sparing and Outpatient Strategy
by Takahiro Kato, Yusuke Yagi, Takumi Maruyama and Yukihiro Hamada
Antibiotics 2025, 14(8), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14080737 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 275
Abstract
Infections caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-Es) pose a significant global threat with notable increases in prevalence worldwide. Carbapenems are often used as the first line of treatment. However, their overuse accelerates resistance development, highlighting the urgent need for clinically viable carbapenem-sparing strategies. [...] Read more.
Infections caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-Es) pose a significant global threat with notable increases in prevalence worldwide. Carbapenems are often used as the first line of treatment. However, their overuse accelerates resistance development, highlighting the urgent need for clinically viable carbapenem-sparing strategies. Cefmetazole (CMZ) and flomoxef (FMOX) are parenteral antibiotics that are widely used in Japan and have emerged as potential carbapenem alternatives. Repositioning these agents effectively addresses the clinical need for carbapenem-sparing strategies and outpatient ESBL-E management. This review aims to reposition CMZ and FMOX for real-world clinical practice by synthesizing basic research, clinical studies, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PKs/PDs) analyses, which suggest that these agents may be effective in treating ESBL-E infections—particularly urinary tract infections, as evidenced by their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. The clinical outcomes of these interventions have been comparable to those of carbapenems, which support their role in antimicrobial stewardship. Their PK/PD characteristics emphasize the importance of dose optimization to ensure therapeutic efficacy, whereas recent insights into resistance mechanisms provide a foundation for appropriate use. As novel antibiotic development takes substantial time, revisiting existing options is increasingly important. Notably, the Infectious Diseases Society of America’s 2024 guidance on antimicrobial resistance has omitted CMZ and FMOX, owing to which clinicians have limited guidance on their use, particularly in regions like Japan where these antibiotics are widely employed. By addressing this knowledge gap, the present review offers a comprehensive evaluation of these drugs and highlights their potential as intravenous agents in ESBL-E management. Furthermore, it highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring effective oral step-down therapy in an outpatient setting to reinforce the global relevance of CMZ and FMOX in a broader treatment framework, underscoring their potential for outpatient administration where clinically appropriate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue ESKAPE and MDRO Pathogens: Infections and Antimicrobial Treatment)
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22 pages, 4544 KiB  
Article
Aspirin Eugenol Ester Ameliorates HFD-Induced NAFLD in Mice via the Modulation of Bile Acid Metabolism
by Zhi-Jie Zhang, Qi Tao, Ji Feng, Qin-Fang Yu, Li-Ping Fan, Zi-Hao Wang, Wen-Bo Ge, Jian-Yong Li and Ya-Jun Yang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7044; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157044 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 172
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent condition worldwide and represents a major global health challenge. Pharmacological and pharmacodynamic results indicate that aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) performs various pharmacological activities. However, it is unclear whether AEE can ameliorate the NAFLD. This [...] Read more.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent condition worldwide and represents a major global health challenge. Pharmacological and pharmacodynamic results indicate that aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) performs various pharmacological activities. However, it is unclear whether AEE can ameliorate the NAFLD. This study investigated the ameliorative effects of AEE on glucose and lipid metabolism disorders by in vitro and in vivo experiments. In the cellular model, TC increased to 0.104 μmol/mg and TG increased to 0.152 μmol/mg in the model group, while TC decreased to 0.043 μmol/mg and TG decreased to 0.058 μmol/mg in the AEE group. In the model group, the area occupied by lipid droplets within the visual field was significantly elevated to 17.338%. However, the administration of AEE resulted in a substantial reduction in this area to 10.064%. AEE significantly reduced the lipid droplet area and TC and TG levels (p < 0.05), increased bile acids in the cells and in the medium supernatant (p < 0.05), and significantly up-regulated the expression of LRH-1, PPARα, CYP7A1, and BSEP mRNA levels (p < 0.05) compared to the model group. In the animal model, different doses of AEE administration significantly down-regulated the levels of TC, TG, LDL, GSP, and FBG (p < 0.05) compared to the high-fat-diet (HFD) group, and 216 mg/kg of AEE significantly improved hepatocellular steatosis, attenuated liver injury, and reduced the area of glycogen staining (p < 0.05). In the HFD group, the glycogen area within the visual field exhibited a significant increase to 18.250%. However, the administration of AEE resulted in a notable reduction in the glycogen area to 13.314%. Liver and serum metabolomics results show that AEE can reverse the metabolite changes caused by a HFD. The major metabolites were involved in seven pathways, including riboflavin metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, and tryptophan metabolism. In conclusion, AEE had a positive regulatory effect on NAFLD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Using Model Organisms to Study Complex Human Diseases)
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42 pages, 891 KiB  
Review
Targeting Oxidative Stress in Acute Pancreatitis: A Critical Review of Antioxidant Strategies
by Laura Ioana Coman, Daniel Vasile Balaban, Bogdan Florin Dumbravă, Horia Păunescu, Ruxandra-Cristina Marin, Mihnea Costescu, Lorena Dima, Mariana Jinga and Oana Andreia Coman
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2390; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152390 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 322
Abstract
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is among the most frequent gastroenterology emergencies, with hospital admission rates on the rise in recent decades. However, a specific treatment for this condition is still lacking. Mitochondrial damage induced by oxidative stress is regarded as the key event in [...] Read more.
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is among the most frequent gastroenterology emergencies, with hospital admission rates on the rise in recent decades. However, a specific treatment for this condition is still lacking. Mitochondrial damage induced by oxidative stress is regarded as the key event in the pathophysiology and initiation of cellular damage in AP. In the early stages of AP, the oxidant–antioxidant balance changes rapidly, and there are significant data regarding the reduced serum levels of antioxidants, with this event being correlated with the clinical severity of pancreatitis. Therefore, addressing oxidative stress could represent a potential therapeutic target in AP. In this comprehensive review, we aimed to provide an update on current evidence regarding clinical and experimental data on antioxidant use in AP, focusing on human studies investigating the effects of single and combined antioxidant supplementation. Although a multitude of animal studies demonstrated that antioxidant therapy has beneficial effects in experimental AP by reducing oxidative injury, inflammatory markers, and ameliorating histological outcomes, human trials showed predominantly conflicting results, with some studies suggesting benefit while others showed no effect, or even potential harm, when antioxidants were administered in high doses or in combination. Moreover, some antioxidants with beneficial results in experimental settings did not show the same efficacy when translated to human studies, which may be a consequence of either inappropriate dosage, route of administration and duration of therapy, or altered pharmacodynamics in vivo. In conclusion, oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathophysiology of AP by enhancing acinar cell injury, inflammation, and systemic complications. Future studies should be centered on optimized dosing strategies, early administration protocols, targeted patient selection, and delivery methods of proper pharmaceutical forms. Full article
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24 pages, 725 KiB  
Review
Targeting Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Narrative Review of Five Novel Antiseizure Medications
by Guillermo de Jesús Aguirre-Vera, Luisa Montufar, María Fernanda Tejada-Pineda, María Paula Fernandez Gomez, Andres Alvarez-Pinzon, José E. Valerio and Eder Luna-Ceron
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2025, 5(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm5030031 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 442
Abstract
Epilepsy remains a major therapeutic challenge, with approximately one-third of patients experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) despite the availability of multiple antiseizure medications (ASMs). This review aims to evaluate emerging ASMs—cenobamate, fenfluramine, ganaxolone, ezogabine (retigabine), and perampanel—with a focus on their mechanisms of action, [...] Read more.
Epilepsy remains a major therapeutic challenge, with approximately one-third of patients experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) despite the availability of multiple antiseizure medications (ASMs). This review aims to evaluate emerging ASMs—cenobamate, fenfluramine, ganaxolone, ezogabine (retigabine), and perampanel—with a focus on their mechanisms of action, pharmacological profiles, and potential role in precision medicine. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of the selected ASMs. Relevant trials, reviews, and mechanistic studies were reviewed to synthesize the current understanding of their application in DRE and specific epilepsy syndromes. Each ASM demonstrated unique mechanisms targeting hyperexcitability, including the modulation of γ-aminobutyric acid receptor A (GABA-A) receptors, sodium and potassium channels, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPA receptors), and serotonin systems. These mechanisms correspond with specific pathophysiological features in syndromes such as Dravet and Lennox–Gastaut. Evidence from clinical trials supports their use as adjunctive therapies with generally favorable tolerability, though adverse events and variable efficacy profiles were noted. The mechanistic diversity of these emerging ASMs supports their value in personalized epilepsy management, particularly in treatment-resistant cases. While the promise of precision medicine is evident, further studies are required to address challenges related to long-term safety, cost, and equitable access. Full article
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20 pages, 3781 KiB  
Article
Ginsenoside Rg3 Adjunctively Increases the Efficacy of Gefitinib Against NSCLC by Regulating EGFR Copy Number
by Xinyi Lv, Yuehan Song, Tianhua Liu, Dingdan Zhang, Xinpeng Ye, Qingqing Wang, Rongrong Li, Jiayi Chen, Shujing Zhang, Xue Yu and Chunying Hou
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(7), 1077; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18071077 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 268
Abstract
Background: Lung cancer has the highest morbidity and mortality of all tumors, and the development of TKI drugs targeting EGFR activating mutations has brought lung cancer treatment into the targeted era. In view of their low efficacy and susceptibility to drug resistance, [...] Read more.
Background: Lung cancer has the highest morbidity and mortality of all tumors, and the development of TKI drugs targeting EGFR activating mutations has brought lung cancer treatment into the targeted era. In view of their low efficacy and susceptibility to drug resistance, there is an urgent need to find strategies to increase their efficacy and reduce the incidence of drug resistance. Methods: In this study, we examined the distribution and probability of EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer patients in the cBioPortal database and compared the survival prognosis of patients with normal and abnormal EGFR, NSCLC patients treated with and without TKI, and NSCLC patients with different EGFR gene copy numbers. We established a mouse lung cancer model and examined the histomorphological characteristics of lung tissues via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Additionally, changes in the copy number of the EGFR gene and its protein expression levels were detected using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Furthermore, we quantified the concentration of the EGFR protein using ELISA. Results: We found no significant advantage of EGFR-TKI therapy over first-line chemotherapeutic agents in patients with EGFR-abnormal NSCLC. The reason for this may be related to the abnormal EGFR gene copy number; the higher the copy number increases, the worse the survival prognosis of the patients. In molecular biology experiments, we demonstrated that ginsenoside Rg3 down-regulated the copy number of 18, 19, 20, and 21 exons and protein expression of EGFR in lung adenocarcinoma cells. The results of in vivo pharmacodynamic assays confirmed that sequential administration of ginsenoside Rg3 with TKI drugs could achieve a gainful complementary effect. Conclusions: Ginsenoside Rg3 down-regulates the copy number of EGFR important exons in EGFR-mutant cells of lung adenocarcinoma and reduces EGFR protein expression, thus providing a high gainful complementary effect in combination with EGFR-TKI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Anti-Cancer Drugs: 2nd Edition)
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29 pages, 2729 KiB  
Article
Computational Evaluation and Multi-Criteria Optimization of Natural Compound Analogs Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Proteases
by Paul Andrei Negru, Andrei-Flavius Radu, Ada Radu, Delia Mirela Tit and Gabriela Bungau
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(7), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47070577 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 337
Abstract
The global impact of the COVID-19 crisis has underscored the need for novel therapeutic candidates capable of efficiently targeting essential viral proteins. Existing therapeutic strategies continue to encounter limitations such as reduced efficacy against emerging variants, safety concerns, and suboptimal pharmacodynamics, which emphasize [...] Read more.
The global impact of the COVID-19 crisis has underscored the need for novel therapeutic candidates capable of efficiently targeting essential viral proteins. Existing therapeutic strategies continue to encounter limitations such as reduced efficacy against emerging variants, safety concerns, and suboptimal pharmacodynamics, which emphasize the potential of natural-origin compounds as supportive agents with immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits. The present study significantly advances prior molecular docking research through comprehensive virtual screening of structurally related analogs derived from antiviral phytochemicals. These compounds were evaluated specifically against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (3CLpro) and papain-like protease (PLpro). Utilizing chemical similarity algorithms via the ChEMBL database, over 600 candidate molecules were retrieved and subjected to automated docking, interaction pattern analysis, and comprehensive ADMET profiling. Several analogs showed enhanced binding scores relative to their parent scaffolds, with CHEMBL1720210 (a shogaol-derived analog) demonstrating strong interaction with PLpro (−9.34 kcal/mol), and CHEMBL1495225 (a 6-gingerol derivative) showing high affinity for 3CLpro (−8.04 kcal/mol). Molecular interaction analysis revealed that CHEMBL1720210 forms hydrogen bonds with key PLpro residues including GLY163, LEU162, GLN269, TYR265, and TYR273, complemented by hydrophobic interactions with TYR268 and PRO248. CHEMBL1495225 establishes multiple hydrogen bonds with the 3CLpro residues ASP197, ARG131, TYR239, LEU272, and GLY195, along with hydrophobic contacts with LEU287. Gene expression predictions via DIGEP-Pred indicated that the top-ranked compounds could influence biological pathways linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, processes implicated in COVID-19’s pathology. Notably, CHEMBL4069090 emerged as a lead compound with favorable drug-likeness and predicted binding to PLpro. Overall, the applied in silico framework facilitated the rational prioritization of bioactive analogs with promising pharmacological profiles, supporting their advancement toward experimental validation and therapeutic exploration against SARS-CoV-2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Drugs and Natural Products Discovery)
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28 pages, 8123 KiB  
Article
Human Metabolism of Sirolimus Revisited
by Baharak Davari, Touraj Shokati, Alexandra M. Ward, Vu Nguyen, Jost Klawitter, Jelena Klawitter and Uwe Christians
Metabolites 2025, 15(7), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15070489 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 485
Abstract
Background: Sirolimus (SRL, rapamycin) is a clinically important mTOR inhibitor used in immunosuppression, oncology, and cardiovascular drug-eluting devices. Despite its long-standing FDA approval, the human metabolic profile of SRL remains incompletely characterized. SRL is primarily metabolized by CYP3A enzymes in the liver and [...] Read more.
Background: Sirolimus (SRL, rapamycin) is a clinically important mTOR inhibitor used in immunosuppression, oncology, and cardiovascular drug-eluting devices. Despite its long-standing FDA approval, the human metabolic profile of SRL remains incompletely characterized. SRL is primarily metabolized by CYP3A enzymes in the liver and intestine, but the diversity, pharmacokinetics, and biological activity of its metabolites have been poorly explored due to the lack of structurally identified standards. Methods: To investigate SRL metabolism, we incubated SRL with pooled human liver microsomes (HLM) and isolated the resulting metabolites. Structural characterization was performed using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and ion trap MSn. We also applied Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to assess the energetic favorability of metabolic transformations and conducted molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to model metabolite interactions within the CYP3A4 active site. Results: We identified 21 unique SRL metabolites, classified into five major structural groups: O-demethylated, hydroxylated, didemethylated, di-hydroxylated, and mixed hydroxylated/demethylated derivatives. DFT analyses indicated that certain demethylation and hydroxylation reactions were energetically preferred, correlating with metabolite abundance. MD simulations further validated these findings by demonstrating the favorable orientation and accessibility of key sites within the CYP3A4 binding pocket. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive structural map of SRL metabolism, offering mechanistic insights into the formation of its metabolites. Our integrated approach of experimental and computational analyses lays the groundwork for future investigations into the pharmacodynamic and toxicodynamic effects of SRL metabolites on the mTOR pathway. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology and Drug Metabolism)
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30 pages, 11312 KiB  
Article
Study on the Mechanism and Dose–Effect Relationship of Flavonoids in Different Extracts of Radix Hedysari Against Gastrointestinal Injury Induced by Chemotherapy
by Shasha Zhao, Miaomiao Yang, Zimu Yang, Hai He, Ziyang Wang, Xinyu Zhu, Zhijia Cui and Jing Shao
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(7), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18071072 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 300
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have shown Radix Hedysari (RH)’s gastroprotective potential, but its active components and mechanisms remain uncharacterized. This study aimed to identify RH’s bioactive fractions, elucidate protection mechanisms, establish flavonoid dose-effect relationships, and determine the pharmacodynamic basis. Methods: Chemical profiling quantified [...] Read more.
Background: Previous studies have shown Radix Hedysari (RH)’s gastroprotective potential, but its active components and mechanisms remain uncharacterized. This study aimed to identify RH’s bioactive fractions, elucidate protection mechanisms, establish flavonoid dose-effect relationships, and determine the pharmacodynamic basis. Methods: Chemical profiling quantified eight flavonoids via HPLC. Network pharmacology screened targets/pathways using TCMSP, GeneCards databases. In vivo validation employed cisplatin–induced injury models in Wistar rats (n = 10/group). Assessments included: behavioral monitoring; organ indices; ELISA (MTL, VIP, IFN–γ, IgG, IL–6, TNF–α etc.); H&E; and Western blot:(SCF, c–Kit, p65). Dose–effect correlations were analyzed by PLS–DA. Results: Content determination indicated that Calycosin–7–glucoside and Ononin were notably enriched on both the n–BuOH part and the EtOAc part. Network pharmacology identified 5 core flavonoids and 8 targets enriched in IL–17/TNF signaling pathways. n–BuOH treatment minimized weight loss vs. MCG, increased spleen/thymus indices. n–BuOH and HPS normalized gastrointestinal, immune, inflammatory biomarkers (p < 0.01 vs. MCG). Histopathology confirmed superior mucosal protection in n–BuOH group vs. MCG. Western blot revealed n–BuOH significantly downregulated SCF, c–kit, and p65 expressions in both gastric and intestinal tissues (p < 0.001 vs. MCG). PLS–DA demonstrated Calycosin–7–glucoside had the strongest dose–effect correlation (VIP > 1) with protective outcomes. Conclusions: The n–BuOH fraction of RH is the primary bioactive component against chemotherapy–induced gastrointestinal injury, with Calycosin–7–glucoside as its key effector. Protection is mediated through SCF/c–Kit/NF–κB pathway inhibition, demonstrating significant dose–dependent efficacy. These findings support RH’s potential as a complementary therapy during chemotherapy. Full article
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23 pages, 11160 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Influence of CYP2C9 and ABCB1 Gene Polymorphisms on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Losartan
by Dmitry Babaev, Elena Kutumova and Fedor Kolpakov
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070935 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 331
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hypertension is a pathological condition characterized by elevated systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure. A range of pharmacotherapeutic agents are available to treat this condition and prevent complications, including the angiotensin II AT1-receptor blocker losartan. Following oral administration, losartan is exposed to a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hypertension is a pathological condition characterized by elevated systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure. A range of pharmacotherapeutic agents are available to treat this condition and prevent complications, including the angiotensin II AT1-receptor blocker losartan. Following oral administration, losartan is exposed to a variety of enzymes that facilitate its metabolism or transportation. The structural characteristics of the genes that encode the enzymes may potentially impact the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of losartan, thereby modulating its effects on the treatment process. Methods: In this study, a computational model of losartan pharmacokinetics was developed, taking into account the influence of different alleles of the CYP2C9 gene, which plays a pivotal role in losartan metabolism, and the ABCB1 gene, which is responsible for losartan transport. Results: Alterations in the modeled activities of the enzymes encoded by CYP2C9 and ABCB1 result in changes in the losartan and its metabolite profiles that are consistent with known experimental data in real patients with different CYP2C9 and ABCB1 genotypes. Conclusions: The findings of the modeling can potentially be used to personalize drug therapy for arterial hypertension. Full article
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36 pages, 1483 KiB  
Review
Microbial Crosstalk with Therapy: Pharmacomicrobiomics in AML—One Step Closer to Personalized Medicine
by Aneta Nowicka, Hanna Tomczak, Edyta Szałek, Agnieszka Karbownik and Lidia Gil
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1761; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071761 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 533
Abstract
Increasing evidence demonstrates the mutualistic connection between the microbiome and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment. Drugs disrupt the microbial balance and, conversely, changes in the microbiome influence therapy. A new field, pharmacomicrobiomics, examines the role of the microbiome in pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and drug [...] Read more.
Increasing evidence demonstrates the mutualistic connection between the microbiome and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment. Drugs disrupt the microbial balance and, conversely, changes in the microbiome influence therapy. A new field, pharmacomicrobiomics, examines the role of the microbiome in pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and drug toxicity. The multimodal therapeutic management of AML, along with disease-related immunosuppression, infection, and malnutrition, creates the unique microbial profile of AML patients, in which every delicate modification plays a crucial role in pharmacotherapy. While both preclinical and real-world data have confirmed a bilateral connection between standard chemotherapy and the microbiome, the impact of novel targeted therapies and immunotherapy remains unknown. Multi-omics technologies have provided qualitative and mechanistic insights into specific compositional and functional microbial signatures associated with the outcomes of AML therapy, but require a large-scale investigation to draw reliable conclusions. In this review, we outline the role of the microbiome within the therapeutic landscape of AML, focusing on the determinants of post-treatment dysbiosis and its effects on the therapeutic response and toxicity. We explore emerging strategies for microbiota modulation, highlighting their safety and efficacy. Advances in microbiome-based approaches are an inevitable step toward precision medicine in AML. However, clinical research in a well-defined group of immunocompromised patients is needed to study their variable effects on human health and determine safety issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Microbiology in Human Health and Disease)
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18 pages, 6558 KiB  
Article
Integrated Omics Reveal Dendrobium nobile Lindl.’s Anti-Diabetic Mechanisms via Arginine/Proline and Glycerophospholipid Pathways
by Zhibo Wang, Xian Wang, Sifan Guo, Ying Cai, Dandan Xie, Yujuan Wang, Aihua Zhang, Jun Dai and Shi Qiu
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(7), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18071061 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Dendrobium nobile Lindl. (DNL), a traditional dietary supplement, exhibits therapeutic potential for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet its mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: T2DM was induced in db/db mice. DNL (10 g/kg/d) or metformin (65 mg/kg/d) was administered [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Dendrobium nobile Lindl. (DNL), a traditional dietary supplement, exhibits therapeutic potential for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet its mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: T2DM was induced in db/db mice. DNL (10 g/kg/d) or metformin (65 mg/kg/d) was administered for 4 weeks. This study integrated pharmacodynamic evaluation and multi-omics to elucidate DNL’s anti-diabetic effects in db/db mice. Results: DNL intervention significantly ameliorated T2DM phenotypes, reducing hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and renal dysfunction. Metabolomics analysis identified 39 differential metabolites (19 upregulated, 20 downregulated) linked to citrate cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and glycerophospholipid metabolism, while proteomics revealed 113 differentially expressed proteins, with multi-omics integration highlighting DNL’s modulation of three proteins (Ckm, Ache, Selenbp1) and four metabolites (4-guanidinobutanoic acid, phosphorylcholine, homocysteine, succinic acid) across arginine/proline metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and sulfur metabolism. Pathway analysis demonstrated DNL’s restoration of dysregulated processes, including inflammation suppression via NF-κB and PI3K-Akt pathways, enhanced insulin sensitivity through glycerophospholipid balance, and mitigation of oxidative stress via sulfur metabolism. Key correlations between metabolites and proteins underscored DNL’s multi-target action. Conclusions: These findings systematically decode therapeutic mechanisms of Dendrobium nobile Lindl., emphasizing its role in rectifying metabolic disorders and inflammatory signaling, thereby providing a molecular basis for its clinical application in T2DM management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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