Background:Epidemiological studies have confirmed that longer exposure to insecticides like cypermethrin(CYP)significantly increases the risk of male reproductive toxicity.Crocus sativus L.has been recognized due to i...Background:Epidemiological studies have confirmed that longer exposure to insecticides like cypermethrin(CYP)significantly increases the risk of male reproductive toxicity.Crocus sativus L.has been recognized due to its therapeutic properties,but its exact role and molecular mechanisms in treatment of reproductive dysfunction remain unclear.Methods:During this study,36 rats were randomly divided into six groups(n=6):control,CYP-induced(60 mg/kg),standard(leuprolide 3 mg/kg)and three treatment groups receiving aqueous,ethanolic,and oil extracts(50 mg/kg or 20 mL/kg)for post-toxicity induction.Results:The finding represented that exposure of CYP significantly increased oxidative stress,disrupted testicular architecture,and markedly reduced testosterone levels(P<0.05).Importantly,Crocus sativus L.treatment alleviated these changes by increasing the expression of Nrf2(nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2),restoring the activity of antioxidant enzymes,and enhancing testicular histomorphology.Surprisingly,molecular docking established a high binding affinity of Crocus sativus L.phytoconstituents such as gallic acid,cinnamic acid and quercetin to the Nrf2-Keap1 complex.It is worth noting that,Crocus sativus L.exhibited a high level of protection against reproductive toxicity caused by CYP in male rats,which was mediated by the activation of Nrf2 pathway,reduction of oxidative damage,and favorable ADMET characteristics.Conclusion:Notably,this research provides a more valid,safe,and effective method of developing new drugs for reproductive disorders,however,further investigation is needed to support the research findings and implement it in clinical practice.展开更多
Negative logarithm of the acid dissociation constant(pK_(a))significantly influences the absorption,dis-tribution,metabolism,excretion,and toxicity(ADMET)properties of molecules and is a crucial indicator in drug rese...Negative logarithm of the acid dissociation constant(pK_(a))significantly influences the absorption,dis-tribution,metabolism,excretion,and toxicity(ADMET)properties of molecules and is a crucial indicator in drug research.Given the rapid and accurate characteristics of computational methods,their role in predicting drug properties is increasingly important.Although many pK_(a) prediction models currently exist,they often focus on enhancing model precision while neglecting interpretability.In this study,we present GraFpKa,a pK_(a) prediction model using graph neural networks(GNNs)and molecular finger-prints.The results show that our acidic and basic models achieved mean absolute errors(MAEs)of 0.621 and 0.402,respectively,on the test set,demonstrating good predictive performance.Notably,to improve interpretability,GraFpKa also incorporates Integrated Gradients(IGs),providing a clearer visual description of the atoms significantly affecting the pK_(a) values.The high reliability and interpretability of GraFpKa ensure accurate pKa predictions while also facilitating a deeper understanding of the relation-ship between molecular structure and pK_(a) values,making it a valuable tool in the field of pK_(a) prediction.展开更多
Objective Oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC)is an aggressive cancer with a high mortality rate.San-Zhong-Kui-Jian-Tang(SZKJT),a Chinese herbal formula,has long been used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer clinical pract...Objective Oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC)is an aggressive cancer with a high mortality rate.San-Zhong-Kui-Jian-Tang(SZKJT),a Chinese herbal formula,has long been used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer clinical practice.Although its therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms in OSCC have been previously elucidated,the potential interactions and mechanisms between the active phytochemicals and their therapeutic targets are still lacking.Methods The present study employed network pharmacology and topology approaches to establish a“herbal ingredients–active phytochemicals–target interaction”network to explore the potential therapeutic targets of SZKJT-active phytochemicals in the treatment of OSCC.The role of the target proteins in oncogenesis was assessed via GO and KEGG enrichment analyses,and their interactions with the active phytochemicals of SZKJT were calculated via molecular docking and dynamic simulations.The pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity of the active phytochemicals were also predicted.Results A total of 171 active phytochemicals of SZKJT fulfilled the bioavailability and drug-likeness screening criteria,with the flavonoids quercetin,kaempferol,and naringenin having the greatest potential.The 4 crucial targets of these active phytochemicals are PTGS2,TNF,BCL2,and CASP3,which encode cyclooxygenase-2,tumor necrosis factor(TNF),BCL-2 apoptosis regulator,and caspase-3,respectively.The interactions between phytochemicals and target proteins were predicted to be thermodynamically feasible and stable via molecular docking and dynamics simulations.Finally,the results revealed that the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 pathway and TNF signaling via NF-κB are the two prominent pathways targeted by SZKJT.Conclusion In summary,this study provides computational data for in-depth exploration of the mechanism by which SZKJT activates phytochemicals to treat OSCC.展开更多
This study investigates the relationships between exposures to ambient air pollution—specifically particulate matter 2.5 (PM_(2.5)) and its metabolites—and the risk of depression.Nonlinear and linear regression,Baye...This study investigates the relationships between exposures to ambient air pollution—specifically particulate matter 2.5 (PM_(2.5)) and its metabolites—and the risk of depression.Nonlinear and linear regression,Bayesian kernel machine regression,and toxicogenomic analysis were key approaches.PM_(2.5)exposure was positively associated with the risk of developing depression,whereas phenylglyoxylic acid exposure was negatively associated with depression risk.We found a significant overall relationship between ambient air pollution and depression,particularly at the 55th and 60th percentiles.Although statistical significance was not reached at the 65th percentile,there was a noticeable upward trend,indicating a potential association.Interestingly,no significant connection was found between a combination of metabolites from ambient air pollution and depression.PM_(2.5)and phenylglyoxylic acid emerged as the most influential compounds in the models,respectively.PM_(2.5)exposure altered the expression of 42 specific targets associated with depression,especially POMC,SCL6A4,IL6,and SOD2.The study identified specific pathways related to insulin secretion,energy metabolism,blood circulation,tube diameter,and maintenance of blood vessel diameter,as well as key molecular mechanisms involving hsa-miR-124-3p,hsa-miR-155-5p,hsa-miR-16-5p,and SP1.These mechanisms were found to underlie the etiology of depression associated with PM_(2.5)exposure.In conclusions,PM_(2.5)and phenylglyoxylic acid were found to be associated with depression.Further work is needed to gain insight into the molecular mechanisms by which these chemicals affect depression,especially pathways related to insulin secretion and blood circulation.展开更多
Food-derived bioactive peptides(FBPs),particularly those with ten or fewer amino acid residues and a molecular weight below 1300 Da,have gained increasing attention for their safe,diverse structures and specific biolo...Food-derived bioactive peptides(FBPs),particularly those with ten or fewer amino acid residues and a molecular weight below 1300 Da,have gained increasing attention for their safe,diverse structures and specific biological activities.The development of FBP-based functional foods and potential medications depends on understanding their structure–activity relationships(SARs),stability,and bioavailability properties.In this review,we provide an in-depth overview of the roles of FBPs in treating various diseases,including Alzheimer’s disease,hypertension,type 2 diabetes mellitus,liver diseases,and inflammatory bowel diseases,based on the literature from July 2017 to Mar.2023.Subsequently,attention is directed toward elucidating the associations between the bioactivities and structural characteristics(e.g.,molecular weight and the presence of specific amino acids within sequences and compositions)of FBPs.We also discuss in silico approaches for FBP screening and their limitations.Finally,we summarize recent advancements in formulation techniques to improve the bioavailability of FBPs in the food industry,thereby contributing to healthcare applications.展开更多
Thymus serpyllum L.,often known as wild thyme,has been used since ancient times due to its multifaceted culinary and medicinal attributes.It is usually utilized in folk medicine to manage different health issues.This ...Thymus serpyllum L.,often known as wild thyme,has been used since ancient times due to its multifaceted culinary and medicinal attributes.It is usually utilized in folk medicine to manage different health issues.This work aimed to investigate the chemical composition and biological characteristics of T.serpyllum essential oil(EO),including its antimicrobial,antioxidant,and anti-inflammatory capabilities.Moreover,we have prompted an in-silico simulation to reveal the underlying mode of action of these properties.The chemical characterization of T.serpyllum(EO)by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS)indicated sabinene(17.33%),terpinen-4-ol(11.73%),phellandral(13.18%),and thymol(10.54%)as main components.The antimicrobial screening utilized the disc-diffusion technique,MIC,and MBC assays.The disc-diffusion test’s results revealed significant anti-Candida activity and notable antibacterial efficacy.The MIC and MBC tests showed that T.serpyllum EO effectively stops bacterial growth,including Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains and Candida strains.The tolerance level ratio demonstrated that this EO exhibits bactericidal and fungicidal effects on all tested bacteria and Candida strains.Also,T.serpyllum EO presented effective inhibitory activity against the 5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX)enzyme(IC50=744.19±0.1µg/mL)(p<0.05).It also effectively affected FRAP,β-carotene,DPPH,and ABTS radicals.In light of these findings,T.serpyllum holds promise for diverse applications across pharmaceuticals,nutraceuticals,and the food industry.However,further research and collaboration between traditional knowledge and modern medicine are crucial to fully realizing its potential benefits in these fields.展开更多
Background:Pistacia integerrima,a cornerstone of traditional medicine,is renowned for its therapeutic applications against various health conditions,including cancer and hepatitis.This study investigates the pharmacol...Background:Pistacia integerrima,a cornerstone of traditional medicine,is renowned for its therapeutic applications against various health conditions,including cancer and hepatitis.This study investigates the pharmacological potential of bioactive compounds derived from Pistacia integerrima in inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX),a key enzyme implicated in inflammation and cancer progression.The current study aimed to evaluate the lipoxygenase inhibitory activity of bioactive compounds from Pistacia integerrima and assess their potential for therapeutic development in the context of inflammation and cancer treatment.Methods:Three major compounds-spinacetin(1),patuletin(2),and pistagremic acid(3)-were isolated from Pistacia integerrima and analyzed for their lipoxygenase inhibitory activity.Biochemical assays and molecular docking studies were performed to assess their effectiveness in inhibiting 5-LOX.Results:All three compounds demonstrated significant inhibition of lipoxygenase activity.Spinacetin(1)and patuletin(2)exhibited the most potent inhibitory effects,with IC_(50)values of 40.34μM and 45.04μM,respectively.Molecular docking studies revealed that patuletin(2)had the highest binding affinity(−7.717 kcal/mol)against 5-LOX,followed by spinacetin(1)with a binding affinity of−6.074 kcal/mol.In-depth in silico analysis highlighted the drug-likeness of spinacetin(1)and its favorable toxicological profile,suggesting its suitability for therapeutic development.Conclusion:The study demonstrates that compounds from Pistacia integerrima,particularly spinacetin and patuletin,have significant lipoxygenase inhibitory activity,with spinacetin showing promise as a lead candidate for lipoxygenase-targeted therapies.The findings reinforce the therapeutic relevance of Pistacia integerrima and suggest that its bioactive compounds may serve as safer,plant-based alternatives to conventional anti-inflammatory and anticancer treatments.展开更多
Centaurium erythraea Rafn(“Gosset El Haya”)has long been prized in North African folk medicine,yet Moroccan chemobiological data remain scarce.Ethanol extracts of northern Moroccan aerial parts were profiled by high...Centaurium erythraea Rafn(“Gosset El Haya”)has long been prized in North African folk medicine,yet Moroccan chemobiological data remain scarce.Ethanol extracts of northern Moroccan aerial parts were profiled by high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)and found rich in phenolics,dominated by 4-hydroxybenzoic acid(57.8%)and naringin(10.3%).The extract exhibited strong antioxidant power in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH)radical-scavenging assay,with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration(IC_(50))of≈74μg mL^(−1),and a total antioxidant capacity(TAC)of≈201μg mL^(−1)and selective antimicrobial activity,sharply inhibiting Aspergillus niger,Penicillium digitatum,and Rhodotorula glutinis while sparing Staphylococcus aureus.In-silico absorption,distribution,metabolism,excretion,and toxicity(ADMET)profiling predicted good oral bioavailability for low-molecular-weight acids and aglycones,lowtoxicity across all metabolites,but absorption liabilities for bulky glycosides.Molecular docking against A.niger esterase(1UKC),C.glabrata lanosterol 14-α-demethylase CYP51(5JLC),and P.digitatum ethyleneforming oxidoreductase(9EIR)corroborated bioassays:rutin and naringin bound more tightly than fluconazole(ΔG≈−9.1 to−10.0 kcal mol^(−1)),whereas quercetin and catechin offered balanced affinity pharmacokinetic profiles.Robust radical scavenging,targeted antifungal potency,and favorable in-silico pharmacokinetics thus position Moroccan C.erythraea as a promising,though standardization-dependent,source of nutraceutical,medicinal,and food-preservation agents.These results support the valorisation of Centaurium erythraea as a promising source for health promotion and green technology applications through its antioxidant,antimicrobial,and drug-like properties.展开更多
Objective:To investigate mutations in the Chikungunya(CHIKV)envelope genome region and evaluate their potential impact on B lymphocyte epitopes via in silico analysis.Methods:E1,E2 and 6K protein genes were sequenced ...Objective:To investigate mutations in the Chikungunya(CHIKV)envelope genome region and evaluate their potential impact on B lymphocyte epitopes via in silico analysis.Methods:E1,E2 and 6K protein genes were sequenced from viral RNA isolated from 13 CHIKV-positive serum samples from Alagoas State,Brazil,during the 2016 outbreak.Phylogenetic analysis,experimental epitope identification in the immune epitope database(IEDB)and in silico approaches were employed to predict the potential impact of the detected mutations.Results:The sequences were clustered via phylogenetic analysis.The CHIKV isolates belong to the ECSA genotype,with 13 detected amino acid mutations.Five mutations are located on the surface of the viral particle in regions critical for cellular receptor interaction.Nine mutations are known experimentally validated epitopes for B and T cells.In B-cell epitope predictions,mutations affect sequences within three conformational epitopes in E2 and one in E1,as well as linear epitopes.Notably,the E2-G60D mutation found in the Alagoas strain has been previously reported to influence the vector competence of Aedes aegypti,the primary vector in Brazil.Conclusions:Genomic surveillance and an in-depth understanding of viral mutations are crucial for adapting public health strategies and improving the outbreak response.These findings could have significant public health implications,such as the development of more effective vaccines,diagnostic tests,and antiviral therapies.展开更多
Objective:To explore the effect of a hydrogel of Piper longum(P.longum)root against biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant(MDR)Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)through in vitro,in silico,and in vivo studies.Methods:We isol...Objective:To explore the effect of a hydrogel of Piper longum(P.longum)root against biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant(MDR)Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)through in vitro,in silico,and in vivo studies.Methods:We isolated the P.longum root ethanolic extract and the compounds using p-HPLC.In vitro antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of P.longum root extract and isolated alkamide compounds against biofilm-forming MDR S.aureus(ATCC 33591)were assessed using agar diffusion and broth microdilution methods,respectively.In silico investigations were conducted to investigate the interaction of alkamide compounds with three target proteins glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β),matrix metalloproteinases-8(MMP-8),and inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS).In addition,the wound healing effect of P.longum root extract 2%and 5%(w/v)-containing hydrogels was determined in mice.Results:The ethanolic root extract of P.longum and its compounds exhibited in vitro antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations between 50µg/mL and 700µg/mL,as well as significantly reduced biofilm formation.Piperdardine isolated from P.longum root extract had the best molecular docking score(-9.7,-9.8,and-9.2 kcal/mol)with target proteins GSK3β,MMP-8,and iNOS.In vivo studies showed that P.longum hydrogels significantly lowered the number of colony-forming units(P<0.05).The P.longum 5%(w/v)hydrogel-treated group showed enhanced wound healing activity,achieving a wound contraction rate of 99.34%on day 14.Furthermore,histopathological analysis confirmed increased re-epithelialization and reduced inflammation in mice treated with P.longum 5%(w/v)hydrogel.Conclusions:P.longum root extract has pharmacological potential as an antibacterial and wound-healing agent,and further research is required to confirm its efficacy and clinical application.展开更多
The variation of the O_(2) content in the suction gas,in the range from 7 to 30 vol.%,during the iron ore sintering process,is investigated.Miniaturized laboratory-scale sintering experiments are carried out using an ...The variation of the O_(2) content in the suction gas,in the range from 7 to 30 vol.%,during the iron ore sintering process,is investigated.Miniaturized laboratory-scale sintering experiments are carried out using an industry-like raw mixture to study the effects of O_(2) variation on the sintering process with particular emphasis on the off-gas composition,specific sintering parameters and the sinter strength as well as the chemical composition of the sinter.After the ignition at the bed surface,the gas hood is placed on the sintering column,allowing a synthetic gas mixture to be drawn through the sinter bed until the burn-through point is reached.For additional interpretation of the experimental results,the theoretical coke combustion rate as a function of the oxygen partial pressure was calculated and plotted against the experimentally measured peak temperature in the sinter bed of the respective sinter series.An increasing O_(2) content in the suction gas results in a faster flame front speed combined with a more gradual temperature rise of the heat wave and longer dwell time in the melt phase formation temperature range.Due to the more pronounced flame front,both sinter yield and strength increase,resulting in lower return rates.Below 12 vol.%O_(2),a sharp decrease in sinter yield and strength can be observed,probably due to the low extent of melt phase formation and the associated minor formation of silico ferrite of calcium and aluminum(SFCA).The carbon burnout as well as the calcination increases with increasing the O_(2) content in the suction gas,resulting in higher levels of CO_(2) in the off-gas,with more or less constant amounts of CO above 15 vol.%O_(2).The amounts of NO and SO_(2) show a similar trend with a continuous increase with increasing O_(2) supply,with the SO_(2) breakthrough starting earlier and being released over a shorter period.The chemical analysis of the sinter indicates the highest Fe(II)values in the range of 12–21 vol.%O_(2) in the suction gas.展开更多
根据日本晴cab4基因序列(GenBank:AK104499.1)设计引物,用RT-PCR的方法从籼稻9311中克隆了叶绿素a/b结合蛋白基因的全长cDNA,命名为cab-9311(cab gene from 9311)。insilico分析表明:cab-9311与cab4基因同源性为99%,编码的蛋白含有244...根据日本晴cab4基因序列(GenBank:AK104499.1)设计引物,用RT-PCR的方法从籼稻9311中克隆了叶绿素a/b结合蛋白基因的全长cDNA,命名为cab-9311(cab gene from 9311)。insilico分析表明:cab-9311与cab4基因同源性为99%,编码的蛋白含有244个氨基酸,与cab4基因编码的蛋白同源性为98%。蛋白分子质量为26.9kD,理论等电点为6.52。第54位～第216位氨基酸是一个典型的叶绿素a/b结合蛋白功能域(chlorophyll a/bbinding domain)。跨膜分析和蛋白质三级预测显示,该蛋白在C端有一个典型的跨膜区。亚细胞定位分析表明该蛋白定位于叶绿体,是一个叶绿体内囊体膜上的锚定蛋白。展开更多
[Objective] The aim was to clone the up-regulated expression gene of rice induced by Rhizoctonia solani.[Method] The EST fragment K16 obtained by suppression subtraction hybridization（SSH）was cloned and confirmed by...[Objective] The aim was to clone the up-regulated expression gene of rice induced by Rhizoctonia solani.[Method] The EST fragment K16 obtained by suppression subtraction hybridization（SSH）was cloned and confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction（RT-PCR）.Then RT-PCR products were cloned into the PMD18-T vector and sequenced.The functions of the sequence were predicted with bioinformatics method.[Result] A 1 079 bp gene was obtained.The gene encoded a protein with 236 amino acids.The protein contains many motif sites,two WRKY domains and a C2H2 zinc finger motif.The gene showed high identities with WRKY8,WRKY24 and WRKY30 gene of rice.[Conclusion] The up-regulated expression gene induced by R.solani was representative WRKY family gene.The gene could play an important role on rice sheath blight resistance.展开更多
[Objective] This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of mulberry pigment metabolism regulation. [Method] Chalconesynthase（CHS） gene was cloned from Morus（Moraceae） in silico. The amino acid sequence, ph...[Objective] This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of mulberry pigment metabolism regulation. [Method] Chalconesynthase（CHS） gene was cloned from Morus（Moraceae） in silico. The amino acid sequence, physical and chemical properties, transmembrane structural domain, hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity,subcellular localization, secondary and tertiary structure of protein were predicted and analyzed by bioinformatics tools. [Result] The cDNA sequence of CHS gene was 1 365bp by splicing using the software DNAstar and it contained a complete ORF including 1 170 bp which encoded 389 amino acids. Bioinformatic analysis showed that CHS gene included specific peptide sequence RLMMYQQGCFAGGTVLR of chalcone synthase superfamily, but has no signal peptide, belonging to the non-secretory proteins, located inside of cytoplasm. Its molecular evolution is more conservative.[Conclusion] The results above provided foundation for the further studies of structure and function of CHS protein.展开更多
文摘Background:Epidemiological studies have confirmed that longer exposure to insecticides like cypermethrin(CYP)significantly increases the risk of male reproductive toxicity.Crocus sativus L.has been recognized due to its therapeutic properties,but its exact role and molecular mechanisms in treatment of reproductive dysfunction remain unclear.Methods:During this study,36 rats were randomly divided into six groups(n=6):control,CYP-induced(60 mg/kg),standard(leuprolide 3 mg/kg)and three treatment groups receiving aqueous,ethanolic,and oil extracts(50 mg/kg or 20 mL/kg)for post-toxicity induction.Results:The finding represented that exposure of CYP significantly increased oxidative stress,disrupted testicular architecture,and markedly reduced testosterone levels(P<0.05).Importantly,Crocus sativus L.treatment alleviated these changes by increasing the expression of Nrf2(nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2),restoring the activity of antioxidant enzymes,and enhancing testicular histomorphology.Surprisingly,molecular docking established a high binding affinity of Crocus sativus L.phytoconstituents such as gallic acid,cinnamic acid and quercetin to the Nrf2-Keap1 complex.It is worth noting that,Crocus sativus L.exhibited a high level of protection against reproductive toxicity caused by CYP in male rats,which was mediated by the activation of Nrf2 pathway,reduction of oxidative damage,and favorable ADMET characteristics.Conclusion:Notably,this research provides a more valid,safe,and effective method of developing new drugs for reproductive disorders,however,further investigation is needed to support the research findings and implement it in clinical practice.
基金upported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.:2023YFF1204904)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.:U23A20530 and 82173746)Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism(Shanghai Municipal Education Commission,China).
文摘Negative logarithm of the acid dissociation constant(pK_(a))significantly influences the absorption,dis-tribution,metabolism,excretion,and toxicity(ADMET)properties of molecules and is a crucial indicator in drug research.Given the rapid and accurate characteristics of computational methods,their role in predicting drug properties is increasingly important.Although many pK_(a) prediction models currently exist,they often focus on enhancing model precision while neglecting interpretability.In this study,we present GraFpKa,a pK_(a) prediction model using graph neural networks(GNNs)and molecular finger-prints.The results show that our acidic and basic models achieved mean absolute errors(MAEs)of 0.621 and 0.402,respectively,on the test set,demonstrating good predictive performance.Notably,to improve interpretability,GraFpKa also incorporates Integrated Gradients(IGs),providing a clearer visual description of the atoms significantly affecting the pK_(a) values.The high reliability and interpretability of GraFpKa ensure accurate pKa predictions while also facilitating a deeper understanding of the relation-ship between molecular structure and pK_(a) values,making it a valuable tool in the field of pK_(a) prediction.
文摘Objective Oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC)is an aggressive cancer with a high mortality rate.San-Zhong-Kui-Jian-Tang(SZKJT),a Chinese herbal formula,has long been used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer clinical practice.Although its therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms in OSCC have been previously elucidated,the potential interactions and mechanisms between the active phytochemicals and their therapeutic targets are still lacking.Methods The present study employed network pharmacology and topology approaches to establish a“herbal ingredients–active phytochemicals–target interaction”network to explore the potential therapeutic targets of SZKJT-active phytochemicals in the treatment of OSCC.The role of the target proteins in oncogenesis was assessed via GO and KEGG enrichment analyses,and their interactions with the active phytochemicals of SZKJT were calculated via molecular docking and dynamic simulations.The pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity of the active phytochemicals were also predicted.Results A total of 171 active phytochemicals of SZKJT fulfilled the bioavailability and drug-likeness screening criteria,with the flavonoids quercetin,kaempferol,and naringenin having the greatest potential.The 4 crucial targets of these active phytochemicals are PTGS2,TNF,BCL2,and CASP3,which encode cyclooxygenase-2,tumor necrosis factor(TNF),BCL-2 apoptosis regulator,and caspase-3,respectively.The interactions between phytochemicals and target proteins were predicted to be thermodynamically feasible and stable via molecular docking and dynamics simulations.Finally,the results revealed that the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 pathway and TNF signaling via NF-κB are the two prominent pathways targeted by SZKJT.Conclusion In summary,this study provides computational data for in-depth exploration of the mechanism by which SZKJT activates phytochemicals to treat OSCC.
文摘This study investigates the relationships between exposures to ambient air pollution—specifically particulate matter 2.5 (PM_(2.5)) and its metabolites—and the risk of depression.Nonlinear and linear regression,Bayesian kernel machine regression,and toxicogenomic analysis were key approaches.PM_(2.5)exposure was positively associated with the risk of developing depression,whereas phenylglyoxylic acid exposure was negatively associated with depression risk.We found a significant overall relationship between ambient air pollution and depression,particularly at the 55th and 60th percentiles.Although statistical significance was not reached at the 65th percentile,there was a noticeable upward trend,indicating a potential association.Interestingly,no significant connection was found between a combination of metabolites from ambient air pollution and depression.PM_(2.5)and phenylglyoxylic acid emerged as the most influential compounds in the models,respectively.PM_(2.5)exposure altered the expression of 42 specific targets associated with depression,especially POMC,SCL6A4,IL6,and SOD2.The study identified specific pathways related to insulin secretion,energy metabolism,blood circulation,tube diameter,and maintenance of blood vessel diameter,as well as key molecular mechanisms involving hsa-miR-124-3p,hsa-miR-155-5p,hsa-miR-16-5p,and SP1.These mechanisms were found to underlie the etiology of depression associated with PM_(2.5)exposure.In conclusions,PM_(2.5)and phenylglyoxylic acid were found to be associated with depression.Further work is needed to gain insight into the molecular mechanisms by which these chemicals affect depression,especially pathways related to insulin secretion and blood circulation.
基金supported by the Chinese Nutrition Society(CNS)Nutrition Science Foundation–Sino Nutri-food Oligopeptide Nutrition Research Fund(No.CNS-FF2019A22)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52173141 and 82102192).
文摘Food-derived bioactive peptides(FBPs),particularly those with ten or fewer amino acid residues and a molecular weight below 1300 Da,have gained increasing attention for their safe,diverse structures and specific biological activities.The development of FBP-based functional foods and potential medications depends on understanding their structure–activity relationships(SARs),stability,and bioavailability properties.In this review,we provide an in-depth overview of the roles of FBPs in treating various diseases,including Alzheimer’s disease,hypertension,type 2 diabetes mellitus,liver diseases,and inflammatory bowel diseases,based on the literature from July 2017 to Mar.2023.Subsequently,attention is directed toward elucidating the associations between the bioactivities and structural characteristics(e.g.,molecular weight and the presence of specific amino acids within sequences and compositions)of FBPs.We also discuss in silico approaches for FBP screening and their limitations.Finally,we summarize recent advancements in formulation techniques to improve the bioavailability of FBPs in the food industry,thereby contributing to healthcare applications.
文摘Thymus serpyllum L.,often known as wild thyme,has been used since ancient times due to its multifaceted culinary and medicinal attributes.It is usually utilized in folk medicine to manage different health issues.This work aimed to investigate the chemical composition and biological characteristics of T.serpyllum essential oil(EO),including its antimicrobial,antioxidant,and anti-inflammatory capabilities.Moreover,we have prompted an in-silico simulation to reveal the underlying mode of action of these properties.The chemical characterization of T.serpyllum(EO)by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS)indicated sabinene(17.33%),terpinen-4-ol(11.73%),phellandral(13.18%),and thymol(10.54%)as main components.The antimicrobial screening utilized the disc-diffusion technique,MIC,and MBC assays.The disc-diffusion test’s results revealed significant anti-Candida activity and notable antibacterial efficacy.The MIC and MBC tests showed that T.serpyllum EO effectively stops bacterial growth,including Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains and Candida strains.The tolerance level ratio demonstrated that this EO exhibits bactericidal and fungicidal effects on all tested bacteria and Candida strains.Also,T.serpyllum EO presented effective inhibitory activity against the 5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX)enzyme(IC50=744.19±0.1µg/mL)(p<0.05).It also effectively affected FRAP,β-carotene,DPPH,and ABTS radicals.In light of these findings,T.serpyllum holds promise for diverse applications across pharmaceuticals,nutraceuticals,and the food industry.However,further research and collaboration between traditional knowledge and modern medicine are crucial to fully realizing its potential benefits in these fields.
文摘Background:Pistacia integerrima,a cornerstone of traditional medicine,is renowned for its therapeutic applications against various health conditions,including cancer and hepatitis.This study investigates the pharmacological potential of bioactive compounds derived from Pistacia integerrima in inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX),a key enzyme implicated in inflammation and cancer progression.The current study aimed to evaluate the lipoxygenase inhibitory activity of bioactive compounds from Pistacia integerrima and assess their potential for therapeutic development in the context of inflammation and cancer treatment.Methods:Three major compounds-spinacetin(1),patuletin(2),and pistagremic acid(3)-were isolated from Pistacia integerrima and analyzed for their lipoxygenase inhibitory activity.Biochemical assays and molecular docking studies were performed to assess their effectiveness in inhibiting 5-LOX.Results:All three compounds demonstrated significant inhibition of lipoxygenase activity.Spinacetin(1)and patuletin(2)exhibited the most potent inhibitory effects,with IC_(50)values of 40.34μM and 45.04μM,respectively.Molecular docking studies revealed that patuletin(2)had the highest binding affinity(−7.717 kcal/mol)against 5-LOX,followed by spinacetin(1)with a binding affinity of−6.074 kcal/mol.In-depth in silico analysis highlighted the drug-likeness of spinacetin(1)and its favorable toxicological profile,suggesting its suitability for therapeutic development.Conclusion:The study demonstrates that compounds from Pistacia integerrima,particularly spinacetin and patuletin,have significant lipoxygenase inhibitory activity,with spinacetin showing promise as a lead candidate for lipoxygenase-targeted therapies.The findings reinforce the therapeutic relevance of Pistacia integerrima and suggest that its bioactive compounds may serve as safer,plant-based alternatives to conventional anti-inflammatory and anticancer treatments.
文摘Centaurium erythraea Rafn(“Gosset El Haya”)has long been prized in North African folk medicine,yet Moroccan chemobiological data remain scarce.Ethanol extracts of northern Moroccan aerial parts were profiled by high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC)and found rich in phenolics,dominated by 4-hydroxybenzoic acid(57.8%)and naringin(10.3%).The extract exhibited strong antioxidant power in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH)radical-scavenging assay,with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration(IC_(50))of≈74μg mL^(−1),and a total antioxidant capacity(TAC)of≈201μg mL^(−1)and selective antimicrobial activity,sharply inhibiting Aspergillus niger,Penicillium digitatum,and Rhodotorula glutinis while sparing Staphylococcus aureus.In-silico absorption,distribution,metabolism,excretion,and toxicity(ADMET)profiling predicted good oral bioavailability for low-molecular-weight acids and aglycones,lowtoxicity across all metabolites,but absorption liabilities for bulky glycosides.Molecular docking against A.niger esterase(1UKC),C.glabrata lanosterol 14-α-demethylase CYP51(5JLC),and P.digitatum ethyleneforming oxidoreductase(9EIR)corroborated bioassays:rutin and naringin bound more tightly than fluconazole(ΔG≈−9.1 to−10.0 kcal mol^(−1)),whereas quercetin and catechin offered balanced affinity pharmacokinetic profiles.Robust radical scavenging,targeted antifungal potency,and favorable in-silico pharmacokinetics thus position Moroccan C.erythraea as a promising,though standardization-dependent,source of nutraceutical,medicinal,and food-preservation agents.These results support the valorisation of Centaurium erythraea as a promising source for health promotion and green technology applications through its antioxidant,antimicrobial,and drug-like properties.
基金supported by Decit/SCTIE-Ministério da Saúde,Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico(CNPq),Fundação de AmparoàPesquisa do Estado de Alagoas(FAPEAL)and Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de Alagoas(SESAU-AL)[PPSUS 60030000841/2016].
文摘Objective:To investigate mutations in the Chikungunya(CHIKV)envelope genome region and evaluate their potential impact on B lymphocyte epitopes via in silico analysis.Methods:E1,E2 and 6K protein genes were sequenced from viral RNA isolated from 13 CHIKV-positive serum samples from Alagoas State,Brazil,during the 2016 outbreak.Phylogenetic analysis,experimental epitope identification in the immune epitope database(IEDB)and in silico approaches were employed to predict the potential impact of the detected mutations.Results:The sequences were clustered via phylogenetic analysis.The CHIKV isolates belong to the ECSA genotype,with 13 detected amino acid mutations.Five mutations are located on the surface of the viral particle in regions critical for cellular receptor interaction.Nine mutations are known experimentally validated epitopes for B and T cells.In B-cell epitope predictions,mutations affect sequences within three conformational epitopes in E2 and one in E1,as well as linear epitopes.Notably,the E2-G60D mutation found in the Alagoas strain has been previously reported to influence the vector competence of Aedes aegypti,the primary vector in Brazil.Conclusions:Genomic surveillance and an in-depth understanding of viral mutations are crucial for adapting public health strategies and improving the outbreak response.These findings could have significant public health implications,such as the development of more effective vaccines,diagnostic tests,and antiviral therapies.
基金supported by NPDF fellowship grants from the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences,Ministry of AYUSH,Govt.of India(HQ-ESTT012/60/2022-ESTT/6783).
文摘Objective:To explore the effect of a hydrogel of Piper longum(P.longum)root against biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant(MDR)Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)through in vitro,in silico,and in vivo studies.Methods:We isolated the P.longum root ethanolic extract and the compounds using p-HPLC.In vitro antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of P.longum root extract and isolated alkamide compounds against biofilm-forming MDR S.aureus(ATCC 33591)were assessed using agar diffusion and broth microdilution methods,respectively.In silico investigations were conducted to investigate the interaction of alkamide compounds with three target proteins glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β),matrix metalloproteinases-8(MMP-8),and inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS).In addition,the wound healing effect of P.longum root extract 2%and 5%(w/v)-containing hydrogels was determined in mice.Results:The ethanolic root extract of P.longum and its compounds exhibited in vitro antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations between 50µg/mL and 700µg/mL,as well as significantly reduced biofilm formation.Piperdardine isolated from P.longum root extract had the best molecular docking score(-9.7,-9.8,and-9.2 kcal/mol)with target proteins GSK3β,MMP-8,and iNOS.In vivo studies showed that P.longum hydrogels significantly lowered the number of colony-forming units(P<0.05).The P.longum 5%(w/v)hydrogel-treated group showed enhanced wound healing activity,achieving a wound contraction rate of 99.34%on day 14.Furthermore,histopathological analysis confirmed increased re-epithelialization and reduced inflammation in mice treated with P.longum 5%(w/v)hydrogel.Conclusions:P.longum root extract has pharmacological potential as an antibacterial and wound-healing agent,and further research is required to confirm its efficacy and clinical application.
基金Open access funding provided by Montanuniversität Leoben.
文摘The variation of the O_(2) content in the suction gas,in the range from 7 to 30 vol.%,during the iron ore sintering process,is investigated.Miniaturized laboratory-scale sintering experiments are carried out using an industry-like raw mixture to study the effects of O_(2) variation on the sintering process with particular emphasis on the off-gas composition,specific sintering parameters and the sinter strength as well as the chemical composition of the sinter.After the ignition at the bed surface,the gas hood is placed on the sintering column,allowing a synthetic gas mixture to be drawn through the sinter bed until the burn-through point is reached.For additional interpretation of the experimental results,the theoretical coke combustion rate as a function of the oxygen partial pressure was calculated and plotted against the experimentally measured peak temperature in the sinter bed of the respective sinter series.An increasing O_(2) content in the suction gas results in a faster flame front speed combined with a more gradual temperature rise of the heat wave and longer dwell time in the melt phase formation temperature range.Due to the more pronounced flame front,both sinter yield and strength increase,resulting in lower return rates.Below 12 vol.%O_(2),a sharp decrease in sinter yield and strength can be observed,probably due to the low extent of melt phase formation and the associated minor formation of silico ferrite of calcium and aluminum(SFCA).The carbon burnout as well as the calcination increases with increasing the O_(2) content in the suction gas,resulting in higher levels of CO_(2) in the off-gas,with more or less constant amounts of CO above 15 vol.%O_(2).The amounts of NO and SO_(2) show a similar trend with a continuous increase with increasing O_(2) supply,with the SO_(2) breakthrough starting earlier and being released over a shorter period.The chemical analysis of the sinter indicates the highest Fe(II)values in the range of 12–21 vol.%O_(2) in the suction gas.
基金Supported by Young Academic Backbone Support Program of Heilongjiang Province(1152G022)~~
文摘[Objective] The aim was to clone the up-regulated expression gene of rice induced by Rhizoctonia solani.[Method] The EST fragment K16 obtained by suppression subtraction hybridization（SSH）was cloned and confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction（RT-PCR）.Then RT-PCR products were cloned into the PMD18-T vector and sequenced.The functions of the sequence were predicted with bioinformatics method.[Result] A 1 079 bp gene was obtained.The gene encoded a protein with 236 amino acids.The protein contains many motif sites,two WRKY domains and a C2H2 zinc finger motif.The gene showed high identities with WRKY8,WRKY24 and WRKY30 gene of rice.[Conclusion] The up-regulated expression gene induced by R.solani was representative WRKY family gene.The gene could play an important role on rice sheath blight resistance.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31072087)~~
文摘[Objective] This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of mulberry pigment metabolism regulation. [Method] Chalconesynthase（CHS） gene was cloned from Morus（Moraceae） in silico. The amino acid sequence, physical and chemical properties, transmembrane structural domain, hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity,subcellular localization, secondary and tertiary structure of protein were predicted and analyzed by bioinformatics tools. [Result] The cDNA sequence of CHS gene was 1 365bp by splicing using the software DNAstar and it contained a complete ORF including 1 170 bp which encoded 389 amino acids. Bioinformatic analysis showed that CHS gene included specific peptide sequence RLMMYQQGCFAGGTVLR of chalcone synthase superfamily, but has no signal peptide, belonging to the non-secretory proteins, located inside of cytoplasm. Its molecular evolution is more conservative.[Conclusion] The results above provided foundation for the further studies of structure and function of CHS protein.
