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Introduction: Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis are the most predominant microorganisms found in the canals of failed root canal treated teeth. Thorough debridement of an infected root canal and complete elimination of microorganisms are objectives of effective endodontic therapy. For thousands of years, humans have used herbs as the primary means to sort out health issues and illnesses. Not all herbs have shown to provide scientific evidence as medicine to illness. Neem is a Botanical herb that is truly remarkable with its scientific value, a tropical evergreen native to India. Although different agents have been suggested as root canal irrigants, sodium hypochlorite and EDTA are the most popularly used. Aim: To compare the antimicrobial efficacy of commercially available irrigants, 17% EDTA and a herbal product, neem leaf extract compared with 3% sodium hypochlorite as a control against Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity was determined using the agar well diffusion method. Freshly prepared neem leaf extracts, 17% EDTA, 3% Sodium hypochloriteStandard strain of E. Faecalis and C. Albicans were used in this study. These isolates were subcultured on to Brain heart infusion agar (BHI agar) and HI-chrome candidal differential media respectively. The agar well diffusion test was performed in brain heart infusion media and broth. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours and the zone of inhibition was recorded and analyzed statistically. Results: Zones of inhibition were present with Neem leaf extract suggestive of antimicrobial properties. Zones of inhibition were greater with Neem extract than 17% EDTA. Hence, further research should be directed towards the use of this herbal extract as an irrigant clinically with endodontic therapy. Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it was found that neem leaf extract had a significant antimicrobial effect against E. Faecalis and C. Albicans compared to EDTA and Sodium Hypochlorite. Since the study is a qualitative analysis, further testing needs to be done to final quantitative analysis of the antimicrobial activity of neem leaf extract.

Conventional fluids (water and ethylene glycol) heat transfer performance results to be poor when incorporated with automobile radiator. An experimental study was performed to investigate the performance of automobile radiator using water and WO3nanofluid as operational fluids. Analysis and comparison were carried out for heat transfer rate and outlet temperature of fluid for various flow rate ranging from 0.2m3/hr. to 0.5 m3/hr. Preparation of nanofluid was done for water with 0.0167%, 0.034%, and 0.0667% volume concentration of WO3nanoparticle. The inlet condition of fluid was set at 50 C as the impact for variation of temperature conditions on system performance was minimal. On experimentation, maximum increase in heat transfer rate was by 4.18% on comparison with base fluid.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in glial activation and neuroinflammation, which play pivotal roles in the secondary injury mechanisms with both pro- and antiregeneration effects. Presently, little is known about the endogenous molecular mechanisms that regulate glial functions in the injured spinal cord. We previously reported that the expression of neuregulin-1 (Nrg-1) is acutely and chronically declined following traumatic SCI. Here, we investigated the potential ramifications of Nrg-1 dysregulation on glial and immune cell reactivity following SCI. Using complementary in vitro approaches and a clinically-relevant model of severe compressive SCI in rats, we demonstrate that immediate delivery of Nrg-1 (500 ng/day) after injury enhances a neuroprotective phenotype in inflammatory cells associated with increased interleukin-10 and arginase-1 expression. We also found a decrease in proinflammatory factors including IL-1β, TNF-α, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and 9) and nitric oxide after injury. In addition, Nrg-1 modulates astrogliosis and scar formation by reducing inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans after SCI. Mechanistically, Nrg-1 effects on activated glia are mediated through ErbB2 tyrosine phosphorylation in an ErbB2/3 heterodimer complex. Furthermore, Nrg-1 exerts its effects through downregulation of MyD88, a downstream adaptor of Toll-like receptors, and increased phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and STAT3. Nrg-1 treatment with the therapeutic dosage of 1.5 μg/day significantly improves tissue preservation and functional recovery following SCI. Our findings for the first time provide novel insights into the role and mechanisms of Nrg-1 in acute SCI and suggest a positive immunomodulatory role for Nrg-1 that can harness the beneficial properties of activated glia and inflammatory cells in recovery following SCI.

Background Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) results in upregulation of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) by reactive glia that impedes repair and regeneration in the spinal cord. Degradation of CSPGs is known to be beneficial in promoting endogenous repair mechanisms including axonal sprouting/regeneration, oligodendrocyte replacement, and remyelination, and is associated with improvements in functional outcomes after SCI. Recent evidence suggests that CSPGs may regulate secondary injury mechanisms by modulating neuroinflammation after SCI. To date, the role of CSPGs in SCI neuroinflammation remains largely unexplored. The recent discovery of CSPG-specific receptors, leukocyte common antigen-related (LAR) and protein tyrosine phosphatase-sigma (PTPσ), allows unraveling the cellular and molecular mechanisms of CSPGs in SCI. In the present study, we have employed parallel in vivo and in vitro approaches to dissect the role of CSPGs and their receptors LAR and PTPσ in modulating the inflammatory processes in the acute and subacute phases of SCI. Methods In a clinically relevant model of compressive SCI in female Sprague Dawley rats, we targeted LAR and PTPσ by two intracellular functionally blocking peptides, termed ILP and ISP, respectively. We delivered ILP and ISP treatment intrathecally to the injured spinal cord in a sustainable manner by osmotic mini-pumps for various time-points post-SCI. We employed flow cytometry, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry in rat SCI, as well as complementary in vitro studies in primary microglia cultures to address our questions. Results We provide novel evidence that signifies a key immunomodulatory role for LAR and PTPσ receptors in SCI. We show that blocking LAR and PTPσ reduces the population of classically activated M1 microglia/macrophages, while promoting alternatively activated M2 microglia/macrophages and T regulatory cells. This shift was associated with a remarkable elevation in pro-regenerative immune mediators, interleukin-10 (IL-10), and Arginase-1. Our parallel in vitro studies in microglia identified that while CSPGs do not induce an M1 phenotype per se, they promote a pro-inflammatory phenotype. Interestingly, inhibiting LAR and PTPσ in M1 and M2 microglia positively modulates their inflammatory response in the presence of CSPGs, and harnesses their ability for phagocytosis and mobilization. Interestingly, our findings indicate that CSPGs regulate microglia, at least in part, through the activation of the Rho/ROCK pathway downstream of LAR and PTPσ. Conclusions We have unveiled a novel role for LAR and PTPσ in regulating neuroinflammation in traumatic SCI. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanisms by which manipulation of CSPG signaling can promote recovery from SCI. More importantly, this work introduces the potential of ILP/ISP as a viable strategy for modulating the immune response following SCI and other neuroinflammatory conditions of the central nervous system. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-018-1128-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Multipotent adult neural precursor cells (NPCs) have tremendous intrinsic potential to repair the damaged spinal cord. However, evidence shows that the regenerative capabilities of endogenous and transplanted NPCs are limited in the microenvironment of spinal cord injury (SCI). We previously demonstrated that injury-induced upregulation of matrix chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) restricts the survival, migration, integration, and differentiation of NPCs following SCI. CSPGs are long-lasting components of the astroglial scar that are formed around the lesion. Our recent in vivo studies demonstrated that removing CSPGs from the SCI environment enhances the potential of transplanted and endogenous adult NPCs for spinal cord repair; however, the mechanisms by which CSPGs regulate NPCs remain unclear. In this study, using in vitro models recapitulating the extracellular matrix of SCI, we investigated the direct role of CSPGs in modulating the properties of adult spinal cord NPCs. We show that CSPGs significantly decrease NPCs growth, attachment, survival, proliferation, and oligodendrocytes differentiation. Moreover, using genetic models, we show that CSPGs regulate NPCs by signaling on receptor protein tyrosine phosphate sigma (RPTPσ) and leukocyte common antigen-related phosphatase (LAR). Intracellularly, CSPGs inhibitory effects are mediated through Rho/ROCK pathway and inhibition of Akt and Erk1/2 phosphorylation. Downregulation of RPTPσ and LAR and blockade of ROCK in NPCs attenuates the inhibitory effects of CSPGS. Our work provide novel evidence uncovering how upregulation of CSPGs challenges the response of NPCs in their post-SCI niche and identifies new therapeutic targets for enhancing NPC-based therapies for SCI repair. Stem Cells 2015;33:2550–2563

We have developed an assay for single strand DNA and RNA detection which is based on novel pyrene-perylene FRET pairs attached to short LNA/DNA probes. The assay is based on ratiometric emission upon binding of target DNA/RNA by three combinations of fluorescent LNA/DNA reporter strands. Specific geometry of the pyrene fluorophore attached to the 2'-amino group of 2'-amino-LNA in position 4 allows for the first time to efficiently utilize dipole-dipole orientation parameter for sensing of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in nucleic acid targets by FRET. Using novel probes, SNP detection is achieved with advantages of large Stokes shift (115 nm), high fluorescence quantum yields and low limit of target detection values (< 5 nM). Rapid and accurate genotyping of highly polymorphic HIV Pol cDNA and RNA fragments performed herein proves the possibility for broad application of the novel pyrene-perylene FRET pairs, e.g., in imaging and clinical diagnostics.

Activation of a cardiac myocyte P2X4 receptor protects against heart failure. 5'-Phosphonate and 5'-phosphate analogues of AMP containing a (N)-methanocarba (bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane) system could protect from heart failure by potentially activating this cardioprotective channel. Phosphoesters and phosphonodiesters were synthesized and administered in vivo via a miniosmotic pump in a mouse ischemic heart failure model and most significantly increased intact heart contractile function (echocardiography) compared to vehicle infusion. Several new thio and deuterated phosphate derivatives were protective in a calsequestrin (CSQ) overexpressing heart failure model. Diethyl (7, MRS4084) and diisopropyl (8, MRS4074) phosphotriesters were highly protective in the ischemic model. Substitution of 2-Cl with iodo reduced protection in the CSQ model. Diisopropyl ester 16 (MRS2978) of (1'S,2'R,3'S,4'R,5'S)-4'-(6-amino-2-chloropurin-9-yl)-2',3'-(dihydroxy)-1'-(phosphonoethylene)bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane was highly efficacious (CSQ), while lower homologue 1'-phosphonomethylene derivative 14 was inactive. Thus, we identified uncharged carbocyclic nucleotide analogues that represent potential candidates for the treatment of heart failure, suggesting this as a viable and structurally broad approach.

MgTiO3 (MTO) thin films have been deposited on to quartz and platinized silicon (Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si) substrates by RF magnetron sputtering. The metal-MTO-metal (Ag-MTO-Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si) thin film capacitors have been fabricated at different oxygen mixing percentage (OMP). The effects of OMP and post annealing on the structural, microstructural, optical and dielectric properties of MTO films were studied. The MTO target has been synthesized by mechanochemical synthesis method. The phase purity of the sputtering target was confirmed from X-ray diffraction pattern and refined to R 3 ¯ space group with lattice parameters a = b = 5.0557(12) A, c = 13.9003(9) A. The chemical composition of the deposited films was confirmed from EDS spectra and all the films exhibited the composition of the sputtering target. The XRD patterns of the as-deposited films are amorphous and annealing at 700 °C for 1 h induced nanocrystallinity with the improved optical and dielectric properties. The annealed films exhibit refractive index in the range of 2.12–2.19 at 600 nm with an optical bandgap value in between 4.11 and 4.19 eV. The increase in the refractive index and bandgap upon annealing can be attributed to the improvement in packing density, crystallinity, and decrease in porosity ratio. Both the dielectric constant and tan δ decrease with the increase in frequency and were in the range of 13.7–31.11 and 0.006–0.124, respectively. The improvement in dielectric properties with the increase in OMP has been correlated to the reduction in oxygen vacancies, increase in crystallinity and grain size of the films.

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) allow the tuning of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties by active or passive targeting of drugs for cancer and other diseases. We have functionalized gold nanoparticles by tethering specific ligands, agonists and antagonists, of adenosine receptors (ARs) to the gold surface as models for cell surface interactions with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The AuNP conjugates with chain-extended AR ligands alone (PEGylated nucleosides and nonnucleosides, anchored to the Au via thioctic acid) were found to be insoluble in water due to hydrophobic entities in the ligand. Therefore, we added a second, biologically inactive pendant moiety to increase the water solubility, consisting of a PEGylated chain terminating in a carboxylic or phosphate group. The purity and stability of the immobilized biologically active ligand were examined by ultrafiltration and HPLC. Pharmacological receptor binding studies on these GPCR ligand-derivatized AuNPs (2–5 nm in diameter), performed using membranes of mammalian cells stably expressing human A1, A2A, and A3ARs, showed that the desired selectivity was retained with Ki values (nanomolar) of A3AR agonist 21b and A2AAR antagonists 24 and 26a of 14 (A3), 34 (A2A), and 69 (A2A), respectively. The corresponding monomers displayed Ki values of 37, 61, and 1,420 nM, respectively. In conclusion, we have synthesized stable, water-soluble AuNP derivatives of tethered A3 and A2AAR ligands that retain the biological properties of their monomeric ligands and are intended for therapeutic and imaging applications. This is the first prototypical application to gold carriers of small molecule (nonpeptide) GPCR ligands, which are under investigation for treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s11302-012-9338-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Molecular modeling of agonist binding to the human A2A adenosine receptor (AR) was assessed and extended in light of crystallographic structures. Heterocyclic adenine nitrogens of cocrystallized agonist overlaid corresponding positions of the heterocyclic base of a bound triazolotriazine antagonist, and ribose moiety was coordinated in a hydrophilic region, as previously predicted based on modeling using the inactive receptor. Automatic agonist docking of 20 known potent nucleoside agonists to agonist-bound A2AAR crystallographic structures predicted new stabilizing protein interactions to provide a structural basis for previous empirical structure activity relationships consistent with previous mutagenesis results. We predicted binding of novel C2 terminal amino acid conjugates of A2AAR agonist CGS21680 and used these models to interpret effects on binding affinity of newly synthesized agonists. d-Amino acid conjugates were generally more potent than l-stereoisomers and free terminal carboxylates more po...

Pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidin-5-amine derivatives such as SCH 442416 display high affinity and selectivity as antagonists for the human A(2A) adenosine receptor (AR). We extended ether-linked chain substituents at the p-position of the phenyl group using optimized O-alkylation. The conjugates included an ester, carboxylic acid and amines (for amide condensation), an alkyne (for click chemistry), a fluoropropyl group (for (18)F incorporation), and fluorophore reporter groups (e.g., BODIPY conjugate 14, K(i) 15 nM). The potent and A(2A)AR-selective N-aminoethylacetamide 7 and N-[2-(2-aminoethyl)-aminoethyl]acetamide 8 congeners were coupled to polyamidoamine (PAMAM) G3.5 dendrimers, and the multivalent conjugates displayed high A(2A)AR affinity. Theoretical docking of an AlexaFluor conjugate to the receptor X-ray structure highlighted the key interactions between the heterocyclic core and the binding pocket of the A(2A)AR as well as the distal anchoring of the fluorophore. In conclusion, we have synthesized a family of high affinity functionalized congeners as pharmacological probes for studying the A(2A)AR.

Natural fibers are considered to have potential use as reinforcing agents in polymer composite materials because of their principle benefits: good strength and stiffness, low cost, and be an environmental friendly, degradable, and renewable material. A study has been carried out to evaluate physical, flexural and impact properties of composite made by areca fibers with randomly distributed fibers. The extracted areca fibers from the areca husk were alkali treated with potassium hydroxide to get better interfacial bonding between fiber and matrix. Then composite laminates were fabricated by using urea formaldehyde, melamine urea formaldehyde and epoxy resins by means of compression molding technique with varying process parameters, such as fiber condition (untreated and alkali treated), and fiber loading percentages (50% and 60% by weight). The developed areca fiber-reinforced composites were then characterized by physical, bending and impact test. The results show that flexural and impact strength increases with increase in the fiber loading percentage. Compared to untreated fiber, significant change in flexural and impact strength has been observed for treated areca fiber reinforcement.

Herein, a novel fluorescent nucleotide analogue, perylene-2'-amino-alpha-L-LNA, has been prepared and studied within synthetic oligonucleotides of different sequences. The phosphoramidite reagent was synthesized in 85% overall yield starting from 2'-amino-alpha-L-LNA nucleoside. Incorporation efficiency of the resulting perylene-2'-amino-alpha-L-LNA monomer (T*) into synthetic oligonucleotides was significantly improved by replacement of the typically used 1H-tetrazole activator with pyridine hydrochloride. Generally, oligonucleotides containing monomer T* showed high binding affinity towards complementary DNA and RNA targets, batochromically shifted excitation/emission wavelengths with respect to the often applied polyaromatic hydrocarbon pyrene, high fluorescent quantum yields and very low target detection limits (5-10 nM). Fluorescence of single stranded LNA/DNA mixmer oligonucleotide having two incorporations of monomers T* was quenched (quantum yield Phi(F) = 0.21) relative to duplexes of this probe with complementary DNA and RNA (Phi(F) = 0.42 and 0.35, respectively). On the contrary, a strong fluorescence quenching upon target binding was demonstrated by two short oligonucleotides of analogues sequences containing monomers T* at 5'- and 3'-terminal positions. We explain the hybridization-induced light-up effect observed for double-labeled probe by a reduction of fluorescence quenching due to precise positioning of the fluorophores within the double-stranded complexes. Furthermore, we propose that a covalent link between two T* monomers in the double-labeled probe provides a remarkable degree of rigidity in the double helix which enforces positioning of the bulky perylene moieties in the nonpolar groove resulting in reduced fluorescence quenching. Herein, a novel fluorescent nucleotide analogue, perylene-2'-amino-alpha-L-LNA, has been prepared and studied within synthetic oligonucleotides of different sequences. The phosphoramidite reagent was synthesized in 85% overall yield starting from 2'-amino-alpha-L-LNA nucleoside. Incorporation efficiency of the resulting perylene-2'-amino-alpha-L-LNA monomer (T*) into synthetic oligonucleotides was significantly improved by replacement of the typically used 1H-tetrazole activator with pyridine hydrochloride. Generally, oligonucleotides containing monomer T* showed high binding affinity towards complementary DNA and RNA targets, batochromically shifted excitation/emission wavelengths with respect to the often applied polyaromatic hydrocarbon pyrene, high fluorescent quantum yields and very low target detection limits (5-10 nM). Fluorescence of single stranded LNA/DNA mixmer oligonucleotide having two incorporations of monomers T* was quenched (quantum yield Phi(F) = 0.21) relative to duplexes of this probe with complementary DNA and RNA (Phi(F) = 0.42 and 0.35, respectively). On the contrary, a strong fluorescence quenching upon target binding was demonstrated by two short oligonucleotides of analogues sequences containing monomers T* at 5'- and 3'-terminal positions. We explain the hybridization-induced light-up effect observed for double-labeled probe by a reduction of fluorescence quenching due to precise positioning of the fluorophores within the double-stranded complexes. Furthermore, we propose that a covalent link between two T* monomers in the double-labeled probe provides a remarkable degree of rigidity in the double helix which enforces positioning of the bulky perylene moieties in the nonpolar groove resulting in reduced fluorescence quenching.

Movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease are serious life-limiting and debilitating movement disorders. Their onset typically occurs from mid-life to late in life, and effective diagnostic techniques for detecting and following the disease course are lacking. Our goal is to develop receptor imaging agents for positron emission tomography (PET) that selectively target the most relevant subtype of adenosine receptors (AR) that are highly expressed in the striatum, that is, the A(2A) AR. To further this goal, we have synthesized and characterized pharmacologically a family of high affinity A(2A) AR ligands, based on the known antagonist, SCH 442416 (R=-Me), which have structural variability on the terminus (R=-Et, -i-Pr, -allyl, and others). A O-fluoroethyl analogue suitable for use as a PET tracer had a K(i) value of 12.4 nM and was highly selective for the A(2A) AR in comparison to the A(1) and A(3) ARs.

Evidence is accumulating to support a potentially important role for purinergic (P2X) receptors in heart failure (HF). We tested the hypothesis that a hydrolysis-resistant nucleotide analog with agonist activity at myocardial P2X receptors (P2XRs) improves the systolic HF phenotype in mouse and dog models. We developed a hydrolysis-resistant adenosine monophosphate derivative, (1'S,2R,3S,4'R,5'S)-4-(6-amino-2-chloro-9H-purin-9-yl)-1-[phosphoryloxymethyl] bicycle[3.1.0]hexane-2,3-diol) (MRS2339), with agonist activity at native cardiac P2XRs. Chronic MRS2339 infusion in postinfarct and calsequestrin (CSQ) mice with HF resulted in higher rates of pressure change (+dP/dt), left ventricle (LV)-developed pressure, and cardiac output in an in vitro working heart model. Heart function in vivo, as determined by echocardiography-derived fractional shortening, was also improved in MRS2339-infused mice. The beneficial effect of MRS2339 was dose-dependent and was identical to that produced by cardiac myocyte-specific overexpression of the P2X(4) receptor. The HF improvement was associated with the preservation of LV wall thickness in both systole and diastole in postinfarct and CSQ mice. In dogs with pacing-induced HF, MRS2339 infusion reduced left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, improved arterial oxygenation, and increased +dP/dt. MRS2339 treatment also decreased LV chamber size in mice and dogs with HF. In murine and canine models of systolic HF, in vivo administration of a P2X nucleotide agonist improved contractile function and cardiac performance. These actions were associated with preserved LV wall thickness and decreased LV remodeling. The data are consistent with a role of cardiac P2XRs in mediating the beneficial effect of this agonist.

Udgivelsesdato: Nov-23

The stimulatory effect of dopamine through dopamine D2 receptor on glucose-induced insulin secretion was studied in the pancreatic islets in vitro. Dopamine significantly stimulated insulin secretion at a concentration of 10-8 M in the presence of high glucose (20 mM). The higher concentrations of dopamine (10(-7)-10(-4)) inhibited glucose-induced insulin secretion in the presence of both 4 mM and 20 mM glucose. Stimulatory and inhibitory effect of dopamine on glucose-induced insulin secretion was reverted by the addition of dopamine D2 receptor antagonists such as butaclamol and sulpiride. Norepinephrine (NE) at 10(-4) M concentration inhibited the dopamine uptake as well as its stimulatory effect at 10(-8) M concentration on glucose induced insulin secretion. Our results suggest that dopamine exerts a differential effect on glucose-induced insulin secretion through dopamine D2 receptor and it is essential for the regulation of glucose-induced insulin secretion by pancreatic islets.

The development of synthetic agents that recognize double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) is a long-standing goal that is inspired by the promise for tools that detect, regulate, and modify genes. Progress has been made with triplex-forming oligonucleotides, peptide nucleic acids, and polyamides, but substantial efforts are currently devoted to the development of alternative strategies that overcome the limitations observed with the classic approaches. In 2005, we introduced Invader locked nucleic acids (LNAs), i.e., double-stranded probes that are activated for mixed-sequence recognition of dsDNA through modification with "+1 interstrand zippers" of 2'-N-(pyren-1-yl)methyl-2'-amino-α-l-LNA monomers. Despite promising preliminary results, progress has been slow because of the synthetic complexity of the building blocks. Here we describe a study that led to the identification of two simpler classes of Invader monomers. We compare the thermal denaturation characteristics of double-stranded probes featuring different interstrand zippers of pyrene-functionalized monomers based on 2'-amino-α-l-LNA, 2'-N-methyl-2'-amino-DNA, and RNA scaffolds. Insights from fluorescence spectroscopy, molecular modeling, and NMR spectroscopy are used to elucidate the structural factors that govern probe activation. We demonstrate that probes with +1 zippers of 2'-O-(pyren-1-yl)methyl-RNA or 2'-N-methyl-2'-N-(pyren-1-yl)methyl-2'-amino-DNA monomers recognize DNA hairpins with similar efficiency as original Invader LNAs. Access to synthetically simple monomers will accelerate the use of Invader-mediated dsDNA recognition for applications in molecular biology and nucleic acid diagnostics.

Novel pyrene-perylene α-L-LNA FRET pairs described herein effectively detect assembly of 2- and 3-way branched DNA nanostructures prepared by postsynthetic microwave-assisted CuAAC click chemistry. The fluorescent signalling of assembly by internally positioned FRET pairs is achieved with low to no fluorescence background signal, remarkably low limit of target detection values and stabilization of the resulting nanostructures.

We explored the influence of modifications of uridine 5'-methylenephosphonate on biological activity at the human P2Y(2) receptor. Key steps in the synthesis of a series of 5-substituted uridine 5'-methylenephosphonates were the reaction of a suitably protected uridine 5'-aldehyde with [(diethoxyphosphinyl)methylidene]triphenylphosphorane, C-5 bromination and a Suzuki-Miyaura coupling. These analogues behaved as selective agonists at the P2Y(2) receptor, with three analogues exhibiting potencies in the submicromolar range. Although maximal activities observed with the phosphonate analogues were much less than observed with UTP, high concentrations of the phosphonates had no effect on the stimulatory effect of UTP. These results suggest that these phosphonates bind to an allosteric site of the P2Y(2) receptor.

Hereby we report an efficient synthesis of LNA thymine and LNA 5-methylcytosine 5′-phosphoramidites, allowing incorporation of LNA thymine and LNA 5-methylcytosine into oligonucleotides synthesized in the 5′→3′ direction. Key steps include regioselective enzymatic benzoylation of the 5′-hydroxy group of unprotected LNA thymine, and subsequent 4,4′-dimethoxytritylation of the 3′-hydroxy group of the O5′-benzoylated LNA thymine nucleoside.

Fluorescence polarization (FP) assay has many advantages over the traditional radioreceptor binding studies. We developed an A(2A) adenosine receptor (AR) FP assay using a newly synthesized fluorescent antagonist of the A(2A)AR (MRS5346), a pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidin-5-amine derivative conjugated to the fluorescent dye Alexa Fluor-488. MRS5346 displayed a K(i) value of 111+/-16nM in radioligand binding using [(3)H]CGS21680 and membranes prepared from HEK293 cells stably expressing the human A(2A)AR. In a cyclic AMP functional assay, MRS5346 was shown to be an A(2A)AR antagonist. MRS5346 did not show any effect on A(1) and A(3) ARs in binding or the A(2B)AR in a cyclic AMP assay at 10microM. Its suitability as a fluorescent tracer was indicated in an initial observation of an FP signal following A(2A)AR binding. The FP signal was optimal with 20nM MRS5346 and 150microg protein/mL HEK293 membranes. The association and dissociation kinetic parameters were readily determined using this FP assay. The K(d) value of MRS5346 calculated from kinetic parameters was 16.5+/-4.7nM. In FP competition binding experiments using MRS5346 as a tracer, K(i) values of known AR agonists and antagonists consistently agreed with K(i) values from radioligand binding. Thus, this FP assay, which eliminates using radioisotopes, appears to be appropriate for both routine receptor binding and high-throughput screening with respect to speed of analysis, displaceable signal and precision. The approach used in the present study could be generally applicable to other GPCRs.

P2X receptor activation protects in heart failure models. MRS2339 3, a 2-chloro-AMP derivative containing a (N)-methanocarba (bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane) system, activates this cardioprotective channel. Michaelis-Arbuzov and Wittig reactions provided phosphonate analogues of 3, expected to be stable in vivo due to the C-P bond. After chronic administration via a mini-osmotic pump (Alzet), some analogues significantly increased intact heart contractile function in calsequestrin-overexpressing mice (genetic model of heart failure) compared to vehicle-infused mice (all inactive at the vasodilatory P2Y(1) receptor). Two phosphonates, (1'S,2'R,3'S,4'R,5'S)-4'-(6-amino-2-chloropurin-9-yl)-2',3'-(dihydroxy)-1'-(phosphonomethylene)-bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane, 4 (MRS2775), and its homologue 9 (MRS2935), both 5'-saturated, containing a 2-Cl substitution, improved echocardiography-derived fractional shortening (20.25% and 19.26%, respectively, versus 13.78% in controls), while unsaturated 5'-extended phosphonates, all 2-H analogues, and a CH(3)-phosphonate were inactive. Thus, chronic administration of nucleotidase-resistant phosphonates conferred a beneficial effect, likely via cardiac P2X receptor activation. Thus, we have greatly expanded the range of carbocyclic nucleotide analogues that represent potential candidates for the treatment of heart failure.

Despite progress with triplex-forming oligonucleotides or helix-invading peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), there remains a need for probes facilitating sequence-unrestricted targeting of double stranded DNA (dsDNA) at physiologically relevant conditions. Invader LNA probes, i.e., DNA duplexes with "+1 interstrand zipper arrangements" of intercalator-functionalized 2'-amino-alpha-l-LNA monomers, are demonstrated herein to recognize short mixed sequence dsDNA targets. This approach, like pseudo-complementary PNA (pcPNA), relies on relative differences in stability between probe duplexes and the corresponding probe:target duplexes for generation of a favourable thermodynamic gradient. Unlike pcPNA, Invader LNA probes take advantage of the "nearest neighbour exclusion principle", i.e., intercalating units of Invader LNA monomers are poorly accommodated in probe duplexes but extraordinarily well tolerated in probe-target duplexes (DeltaT(m)/modification up to +11.5 degrees C). Recognition of isosequential dsDNA-targets occurs: a) at experimental temperatures much lower than the thermal denaturation temperatures (T(m)'s) of Invader LNAs or dsDNA-targets, b) at a wide range of ionic strengths, and c) with good mismatch discrimination. Recognition of dsDNA is monitored in real-time using inherent pyrene-pyrene excimer signals of Invader LNA probes, which provides insights into reaction kinetics and enables rational design of probes. These properties render Invader LNAs as promising probes for biomedical applications entailing sequence-unrestricted recognition of dsDNA.

Chemically modified oligonucleotides are increasingly applied in nucleic acid based therapeutics and diagnostics. LNA (locked nucleic acid) and its diastereomer α-L-LNA are two promising examples thereof that exhibit increased thermal and enzymatic stability. Herein, the synthesis, biophysical characterization, and molecular modeling of N2′-functionalized 2′-amino-α-L-LNA is described. Chemoselective N2′-functionalization of protected amino alcohol 1 followed by phosphitylation afforded a structurally varied set of target phosphoramidites, which were incorporated into oligodeoxyribonucleotides. Incorporation of pyrene-functionalized building blocks such as 2′-N-(pyren-1-yl)carbonyl-2′-amino-α-L-LNA (monomer X) led to extraordinary increases in thermal affinity of up to +19.5 °C per modification against DNA targets in particular. In contrast, incorporation of building blocks with small nonaromatic N2′-functionalities such as 2′-N-acetyl-2′-amino-α-L-LNA (monomer V) had detrimental effects on thermal affinity toward DNA/RNA complements with decreases of as much as -16.5 °C per modification. Extensive thermal DNA selectivity, favorable entropic contributions upon duplex formation, hybridization-induced bathochromic shifts of pyrene absorption maxima and increases in circular dichroism signal intensity, and molecular modeling studies suggest that pyrene-functionalized 2′-amino-α-L-LNA monomers W-Y having short linkers between the bicyclic skeleton and the pyrene moiety allow high-affinity hybridization with DNA complements and precise positioning of intercalators in nucleic acid duplexes. This rigorous positional control has been utilized for the development of probes for emerging therapeutic and diagnostic applications focusing on DNA targeting. Chemically modified oligonucleotides are increasingly applied in nucleic acid based therapeutics and diagnostics. LNA (locked nucleic acid) and its diastereomer α-L-LNA are two promising examples thereof that exhibit increased thermal and enzymatic stability. Herein, the synthesis, biophysical characterization, and molecular modeling of N2′-functionalized 2′-amino-α-L-LNA is described. Chemoselective N2′-functionalization of protected amino alcohol 1 followed by phosphitylation afforded a structurally varied set of target phosphoramidites, which were incorporated into oligodeoxyribonucleotides. Incorporation of pyrene-functionalized building blocks such as 2′-N-(pyren-1-yl)carbonyl-2′-amino-α-L-LNA (monomer X) led to extraordinary increases in thermal affinity of up to +19.5 °C per modification against DNA targets in particular. In contrast, incorporation of building blocks with small nonaromatic N2′-functionalities such as 2′-N-acetyl-2′-amino-α-L-LNA (monomer V) had detrimental effects on thermal affinity toward DNA/RNA complements with decreases of as much as -16.5 °C per modification. Extensive thermal DNA selectivity, favorable entropic contributions upon duplex formation, hybridization-induced bathochromic shifts of pyrene absorption maxima and increases in circular dichroism signal intensity, and molecular modeling studies suggest that pyrene-functionalized 2′-amino-α-L-LNA monomers W-Y having short linkers between the bicyclic skeleton and the pyrene moiety allow high-affinity hybridization with DNA complements and precise positioning of intercalators in nucleic acid duplexes. This rigorous positional control has been utilized for the development of probes for emerging therapeutic and diagnostic applications focusing on DNA targeting.

A short synthetic route to the first β- l -ribo configured locked nucleic acid (LNA), that is, 2′-amino-β- l -LNA thymine phosphoramidite 6, has been developed from bicyclic nucleoside 1. Incorporation of 2′-amino-β- l -LNA thymine monomers into α-DNA strands results in probes forming stable duplexes with complementary RNA in parallel orientation.

A short, very high yielding, and practical synthesis of LNA uracil diol 6 has been developed from the easily accessible glycosyl donor 1 . The concluding O3′-debenzylation of 5 resulted in significant reduction of the uracil moiety with many typical debenzylation conditions, while catalytic transfer hydrogenation using Pd(OH) 2 /C and formic acid largely suppressed this undesired side reaction. Facile access to 6 will allow full exploration of RNA-based LNA-technology applications, including polymerase-catalyzed synthesis of LNA-modified RNA-strands.

Precise positioning of intercalators furnishes a SNP‐detection tool. The conformationally locked 2‐oxo‐5‐azabicyclo‐[2.2.1]heptane skeleton of 2′‐amino‐α‐L‐LNA monomer X directs the N2′‐linked pyrene moiety into nucleic acid duplex cores to give highly stabilized duplexes. We have used this precise positioning of pyrene moieties to develop probes that signal the presence of single‐nucleotide mismatches in DNA/RNA targets by excimer signal formation.

A convergent route to 2′-amino-α-L-LNA-T phosphoramidite building block 16 has been developed. Key steps include 1) introduction of a C2-azido group prior to nucleobase-coupling, 2) tandem Staudinger and intramolecular nucleophilic substitution reaction, and 3) separation of α-L- and β-L-configured intermediates.

Incorporation of a single pyrene-functionalized 2'-amino-alpha-l-LNA monomer X into short DNA strands induces extraordinarily high binding affinity towards complementary DNA (up to 16 degrees C increase per modification), whereas labile duplexes, suitable as probes for targeting of double stranded DNA, are formed upon positioning of two monomers X in an interstrand +1 zipper motif.

Incorporation of conformationally restricted 3′‐C‐ethynyl‐3′‐O,4′‐C‐methyleneribonucleotide X monomers into oligodeoxyribonucleotides results in large decreases in affinity towards complementary DNA, whereas significantly more stable duplexes are formed with RNA complements. RNA selectivity becomes more pronounced upon multiple incorporations of X monomers. Increased thermal stability is observed upon positioning of two X monomers in a +1 zipper interstrand motif. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)

The molecular interaction between adenosine A(2A) and dopamine D-2 receptors (A(2A)Rs and D(2)Rs, respectively) within an oligomeric complex has been postulated to play a pivotal role in the adenosine-dopamine interplay in the central nervous system, in both normal and pathological conditions (e.g. Parkinson's disease). While the effects of A(2A)R challenge on D2R functioning have been largely studied, the reverse condition is still unexplored, a fact that might have impact in therapeutics. Here, we aimed to examine in a real-time mode the D2R-mediated allosteric modulation of A(2A)R binding when an A(2A)R/D2R oligomer is established. Thus, we synthesized fluorescent A(2A)R agonists and evaluated, by means of a flow cytometry homogeneous no-wash assay and a real-time fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based approach, the effects on A(2A)R binding of distinct antiparkinsonian drugs in current clinical use (i.e. pramipexole, rotigotine and apomorphine). Our results provided evidence for the existence of a differential D2R-mediated negative allosteric modulation on A(2A)R agonist binding that was oligomer-formation dependent, and with apomorphine being the best antiparkinsonian drug attenuating A(2A)R agonist binding. Overall, the here-developed methods were found valid to explore the ability of drugs acting on D(2)Rs to modulate A(2A)R binding, thus serving to facilitate the preliminary selection of D2R-like candidate drugs in the management of Parkinson's disease. (c) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.