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Abstract Background Triazole is an important heterocyclic moiety that occupies a unique position in heterocyclic chemistry, due to its large number of biological activities. It exists in two isomeric forms i.e. 1,2,4-triazole and 1,2,3-triazole and is used as core molecule for the design and synthesis of many medicinal compounds. 1,2,4-Triazole possess broad spectrum of therapeutically interesting drug candidates such as analgesic, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-urease, anti-inflammatory, diuretics, anticancer, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic and antimigraine agents. Methods The structures of all synthesized compounds were characterized by physicochemical properties and spectral means (IR and NMR). The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive (B. subtilis), Gram-negative (P. aeruginosa and E. coli) bacterial and fungal (C. albicans and A. niger) strains by tube dilution method using ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin and fluconazole as standards. In-vitro antioxidant and anti-urease screening was done by DPPH assay and indophenol method, respectively. The in-vitro anticancer evaluation was carried out against MCF-7 and HCT116 cancer cell lines using 5-FU as standards. Results, discussion and conclusion The biological screening results reveal that the compounds T 5 (MIC BS, EC = 24.7 µM, MIC PA , CA = 12.3 µM) and T 17 (MIC AN = 27.1 µM) exhibited potent antimicrobial activity as comparable to standards ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin (MICCipro = 18.1 µM, MICAmo = 17.1 µM) and fluconazole (MICFlu = 20.4 µM), respectively. The antioxidant evaluation showed that compounds T 2 (IC50 = 34.83 µg/ml) and T 3 (IC50 = 34.38 µg/ml) showed significant antioxidant activity and comparable to ascorbic acid (IC50 = 35.44 µg/ml). Compounds T 3 (IC50 = 54.01 µg/ml) was the most potent urease inhibitor amongst the synthesized compounds and compared to standard thiourea (IC50 = 54.25 µg/ml). The most potent anticancer activity was shown by compounds T 2 (IC50 = 3.84 μM) and T 7 (IC50 = 3.25 μM) against HCT116 cell lines as compared to standard 5-FU (IC50 = 25.36 μM).

Probiotic supplements have been increasingly reported for their usefulness in delaying the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Literature on the impact of probiotics on NAFLD covered various aspects of the disease. This study was undertaken to systematically review in vivo findings on hepatoprotection of probiotics against NAFLD. The literature search was performed through Cochrane, PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Interventions of known probiotics in NAFLD-induced animal model with at least one measurable NAFLD-related parameter were included. The data were extracted by all authors independently. Quality assessment was conducted using the Systematic Review Center for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE's) Risk of Bias (RoB) tool. P-values of measures were compared inter- and intra-study for each parameter. Forty-four probiotic-based studies of NAFLD-induced rodents were shortlisted. The majority of the studies were presented with low/unclear risk of bias. Probiotics improved the histopathology of NAFLD rodents (primary outcome). Most of the probiotic-supplemented NAFLD rodents were presented with mixed effects on serum liver enzymes but with improved hepatic and serum lipid profiles (including increased serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). The findings were generally accompanied by downregulation of hepatic lipogenic, oxidative, and inflammatory signallings. Probiotics were found to modulate gut microbiota composition and its products, and intestinal permeability. Probiotics also resulted in better glycaemic control and reduced liver weight. Altogether, the present qualitative appraisals strongly implied the hepatoprotective potential of probiotics against NAFLD in vivo.

A series of diazenyl schiff bases have been synthesized by reaction of salicylaldehyde containing azo dyes with various substituted aniline derivatives in the presence of acetic acid as catalyst. The structures of diazenyl derivatives were determined by FTIR, UV–vis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, CHN analysis, fluorimetric and mass spectroscopic studies. The synthesized derivatives were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against various Gram-positive (S. aureus, B. subtilis, B. cereus), Gram-negative (S. typhi, S. enterica, E. coli, P. aeruginosa) bacterial and fungal (C. albicans, A. niger and A. fumigatus) strains, using cefadroxil (antibacterial) and fluconazole (antifungal) as standard drugs. The diazenyl schiff bases were also screened for their cytotoxicity against human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT-116) using 5-fluorouracil as standard drug by Sulforhodamine-B Stain (SRB) assay. The schiff bases exhibited significant activity toward both Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacterial and fungal strains. Most of the synthesized derivatives showed high activity against S. enterica. 4-((2,5-Dichlorophenyl)diazenyl)-2-((3-bromophenylimino)methyl)phenol (SBN-40) was found to be very active against S. aureus, B. cereus and E. coli, with MIC = 0.69 (µM/ml × 102). The compound 4-((2-bromophenyl)diazenyl)-2-((4-nitrophenylimino)methyl)phenol (SBN-13) possessed comparable activity (IC50 = 7.5 µg/ml) to the standard drug 5-fluorouracil (IC50 = 3.0 µg/ml) against human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT-116). Keywords: Diazenyl, Schiff base, Antimicrobial, Anticancer, Fluorescence, Bathochromic

To find out effective anticancer compounds we synthesized (1–30) derivatives of 4-isopropylbenzoylhydrazone and evaluated for anticancer potential. The compounds 3, 9, 12, 23, 26 and 28 showed better activities ranging (0.39–1.1 µg/ml) than the standard (1.53 ± 0.01 µg/ml). In line with this, compounds 2, 6, 24, 25 and 29 exhibited better activities compared to the second standard (5FU 4.60 ± 0.01 µg/ml). The best molecular docked complex between the BRCA1 structure and the 1–30 derivatives were analyzed based on the Glide docked score and binding orientation for both the SP and XP mode. The 2D-QSAR analysis reflected a significant correlation between the experimental and the predicted biological activities. The above-mentioned compounds were also assessed by various spectroscopic techniques. Keywords: 4-Isopropylbenzohydrazones, Anticancer, Molecular docking, QSAR studies, Synthesis

Calotropis procera (family Apocynaceae) is a valuable medicinal plant as it contains many valuable phytochemicals such as glycosides (mostly cardenolides), flavonoids, triterpenes, alkaloids, steroids, saponins, proteins and enzymes. Multiparous biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, wound healing and wideranging antimicrobial activities of C. procera have been well investigated and reported. The main aim of this review was to present the encompassing information regarding antimicrobial activities of C. procera latex, different crude extracts and some isolated compounds which have been tested for antimicrobial property. Comprehensive data extracted from earlier as well as recently published original articles regarding antibacterial, antifungal, anti-protozoal and antiviral properties of C. procera were discussed and summarised in tabular forms. The compiled data comprised of plant parts, geographical origin, type of tested extracts/fractions, test model, used doses, tested microorganisms, obtained results and relevant references. In addition, the isolated antimicrobial pure compounds of C. procera are also discussed in a separate section. The analysis and information presented in this review identified the existing critical knowledge gaps in the research and also explored the future perspectives and further research opportunities of C. procera.

Abstract In the present study, a series of 2-(4-(2-chloroacetyl)piperazin-1-yl)-N-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-oxoquinazolin-3(4H)-yl)acetamide derivatives was synthesized and its chemical structures were confirmed by physicochemical and spectral characteristics. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial (tube dilution technique) and anticancer (MTT assay) activities along with molecular docking study by Schrodinger 2018-1, maestro v11.5. The antimicrobial results indicated that compounds 3, 8, 11 and 12 displayed the significant antimicrobial activity and comparable to the standards drugs (ciprofloxacin and fluconazole). The anticancer activity results indicated that compound 5 have good anticancer activity among the synthesized compounds but lower active than the standard drugs (5-fluorouracil and tomudex). Molecular docking study demonstrated that compounds 5 and 7 displayed the good docking score with better anticancer potency within the binding pocket and these compounds may be used as a lead for rational drug designing for the anticancer molecules.

Abstract Heterocyclic 1,3-diazine nucleus is a valuable pharmacophore in the field of medicinal chemistry and exhibit a wide spectrum of biological activities. PharmMapper, a robust online tool used for establishing the target proteins based on reverse pharmacophore mapping. PharmMapper study is carried out to explore the pharmacological activity of 1,3-diazine derivatives using reverse docking program. PharmMapper, an open web server was used to recognize for all the feasible target proteins for the developed compounds through reverse pharmacophore mapping. The results were analyzed via molecular docking with maestro v11.5 (Schrodinger 2018-1) using GTPase HRas as possible target. The molecular docking studies displayed the binding behavior of 1,3-diazine within GTP binding pocket. From the docking study compounds s3 and s14 showed better docked score with anticancer potency against cancer cell line (HCT116). Hence, the GTPase HRas may be the possible target of 1,3-diazine derivatives for their anticancer activity where the retrieved information may be quite useful for developing rational drug designing. Furthermore the selected 1,3-diazine compounds were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity against murine macrophages cell line. 1,3-Diazine compounds exhibited good selectivity of the compounds towards the human colorectal carcinoma cell line instead of the murine macrophages. The toxicity study of the most active compounds was also performed on non cancerous HEK-293 cell line.

Abstract Pyrimidine nucleus is a significant pharmacophore that exhibited excellent pharmacological activities. A series of pyrimidine scaffolds was synthesized and its chemical structures were confirmed by physicochemical and spectral analysis. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial potential towards Gram positive and negative bacteria as well as fungal species. They were also assessed for their anticancer activity toward a human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT116). Whilst results of antimicrobial potential revealed that compounds Ax2, Ax3, Ax8 and Ax14 exhibited better activity against tested microorganisms, the results of antiproliferative activity indicated that compounds Ax7 and Ax10 showed excellent activity against HCT116. Further, the molecular docking of pyrimidine derivatives Ax1, Ax9 and Ax10 with CDK8 (PDB id: 5FGK) protein indicated that moderate to better docking results within the binding pocket. Compounds Ax8 and Ax10 having significant antimicrobial and anticancer activities may be selected as lead compounds for the development of novel antimicrobial and anticancer agent, respectively.

Abstract Benzimidazole is a valuable pharmacophore in the field of medicinal chemistry and exhibit wide spectrum of biological activity. Molecular docking technique is routinely used in modern drug discovery for understanding the drug-receptor interaction. The selected data set of synthesized benzimidazole compounds was evaluated for its in vitro anticancer activity against cancer cell lines (HCT116 and MCF7) by sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Further, molecular docking study of data set was carried out by Schrodinger-Maestro v11.5 using CDK-8 (PDB code: 5FGK) and ER-alpha (PDB code: 3ERT) as possible target for anticancer activity. Molecular docking results demonstrated that compounds 12, 16, N9, W20 and Z24 displayed good docking score with better interaction within crucial amino acids and corelate to their anticancer results. ADME results indicated that compounds 16, N9 and W20 have significant results within the close agreement of the Lipinski’s rule of five and Qikprop rule within the range and these compounds may be taken as lead molecules for the discovery of new anticancer agents.

Abstract To combat the antimicrobial and anticancer drug resistance by pathogens and cancerous cells, efforts has been made to study the pharmacological activities of newly synthesized N-(4-(4-bromophenyl)thiazol-2-yl)-2-chloroacetamide derivatives. The molecular structures of the synthesized derivatives were confirmed by their physicochemical properties and spectroanalytical data (NMR, IR and elemental). The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against bacterial (Gram positive and Gram negative) and fungal species using turbidimetric method and anticancer activity against oestrogen receptor positive human breast adenocarcinoma cancer cell line (MCF7) by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Molecular docking studies were carried out to study the binding mode of active compounds with receptor using Schrodinger v11.5. The antimicrobial activity results revealed that compounds d1, d2 and d3 have promising antimicrobial activity. Anticancer screening results indicated that compounds d6 and d7 were found to be the most active ones against breast cancer cell line. Furthermore, the molecular docking study demonstrated that compounds d1, d2, d3, d6 and d7 displayed good docking score within binding pocket of the selected PDB ID (1JIJ, 4WMZ and 3ERT) and has the potential to be used as lead compounds for rational drug designing.

Abstract In order to overcome the challenges of microbial resistance as well as to improve the effectiveness and selectivity of chemotherapeutic agents against cancer, a novel series of 4-(4-bromophenyl)-thiazol-2-amine derivatives was synthesized and its molecular structures were confirmed by physicochemical and spectral characteristics. The synthesized compounds were further evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activity using turbidimetric method and anticancer activity against oestrogen receptor positive human breast adenocarcinoma cancer cell line (MCF7) by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. The antimicrobial activity results revealed that compound p2, p3, p4 and p6 exhibited promising antimicrobial activity that are comparable to standard norfloxacin (antibacterial) and fluconazole (antifungal). Anticancer screening results demonstrated that compound p2 was found to be the most active one against cancer cell line when compared to the rest of the compounds and comparable to the standard drug (5-fluorouracil). The molecular docking study demonstrated that compounds, p2, p3, p4 and p6 displayed good docking score within binding pocket of the selected PDB ID (1JIJ, 4WMZ and 3ERT) and showed promising ADME properties.

Abstract Background Nitrogen containing heterocycles are widely used and investigated by pharmaceutical industry, as they are important in discovery and designing of new drug molecules. Drugs with a benzimidazole nucleus possess exclusive structural features and electron-rich atmosphere, which enable them to bind to a number of biologically important targets and result in a wide range of activities. This has served as the basis of the present study whereby new scaffolds with benzimidazole moiety were designed and synthesized. Methods The structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by physicochemical and spectral means. The synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities by tube dilution and Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assays, respectively. Results and conclusion The in vitro biological screening results revealed that compound Z24 exhibited promising antimicrobial and anticancer activities which are comparable to standards.

Abstract Background Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) is an important target for antimetabolite class of antimicrobials because it participates in purine synthesis. 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (2MBI) has similar structural features as purine nucleotides. Given that benzimidazole and similar heteroaromatics have been broadly examined for their anticancer potential, so, we hereby report the design, synthesis and biological studies (i.e. antimicrobial and anticancer studies) of 2MBI derivatives. Methodology The antimicrobial activity of synthesized 2MBI derivatives were evaluated against Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial species as well as fungal species by tube dilution technique whereas their anticancer activity was assessed against human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT116) by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. They were also structurally characterized by IR, NMR, MS and elemental analyses. Results, discussion and conclusion The antimicrobial activity findings revealed that compound N1 (MIC bs,st, ca = 1.27, 2.54, 1.27 µM), N8 (MIC ec = 1.43 µM), N22 (MIC kp,an = 2.60 µM), N23 and N25 (MIC sa = 2.65 µM) exhibited significant antimicrobial effects against tested strains, i.e. Gram-positive, Gram-negative (bacterial) and fungal strains. The anticancer screening results demonstrated that compounds N9, N18 (IC50 = 5.85, 4.53 µM) were the most potent compounds against cancer cell line (HCT116) even more than 5-FU, the standard drug (IC50 = 9.99 µM).

Abstract Background The emergence of bacterial resistance is a major public health problem. It is essential to develop and synthesize new therapeutic agents with better activity. The mode of actions of certain newly developed antimicrobial agents, however, exhibited very limited effect in treating life threatening systemic infections. Therefore, the advancement of multi-potent and efficient antimicrobial agents is crucial to overcome the increased multi-drug resistance of bacteria and fungi. Cancer, which remains as one of the primary causes of deaths and is commonly treated by chemotherapeutic agents, is also in need of novel and efficacious agents to treat resistant cases. As such, a sequence of novel substituted benzamides was designed, synthesized and evaluated for their antimicrobial and anticancer activities. Methodology All synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, NMR, Mass and elemental analysis followed by in vitro antimicrobial studies against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram-negative (Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae) bacterial and fungal (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger) strains by the tube dilution method. The in vitro anticancer evaluation was carried out against the human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT116), using the Sulforhodamine B assay. Results, discussion and conclusion Compound W6 (MIC sa, st, kp = 5.19 µM) emerged as a significant antibacterial agent against all tested bacterial strains i.e. Gram-positive (S. aureus), Gram-negative (S. typhi, K. pneumoniae) while compound W1 (MIC ca, an = 5.08 µM) was most potent against fungal strains (A. niger and C. albicans) and comparable to fluconazole (MIC = 8.16 µM). The anticancer screening demonstrated that compound W17 (IC50 = 4.12 µM) was most potent amongst the synthesized compounds and also more potent than the standard drug 5-FU (IC50 = 7.69 µM).

Abstract Background A series of benzimidazole derivatives was developed and its chemical scaffolds were authenticated by NMR, IR, elemental analyses and physicochemical properties. The synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities. Results and discussion The synthesized benzimidazole compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity using the tube dilution method and were found to exhibit good antimicrobial potential against selected Gram negative and positive bacterial and fungal species. The compounds were also assessed for their anticancer activity exhibited using the SRB assay and were found to elicit antiproliferative activity against MCF7 breast cancer cell line, which was comparable to the standard drug. Conclusion Antimicrobial screening results indicated that compounds 1, 2 and 19 to be promising antimicrobial agents against selected microbial species and comparable to standard drugs which included norfloxacin and fluconazole. The anticancer screening results revealed that compounds, 12, 21, 22 and 29 to show the highest activity against MCF7 and their IC50 values were more potent than 5-fluorouracil.

Abstract Background In view of wide range of biological activities of oxazole, a new series of oxazole analogues was synthesized and its chemical structures were confirmed by spectral data (Proton/Carbon-NMR, IR, MS etc.). The synthesized oxazole derivatives were screened for their antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities. Results and discussion The antimicrobial activity was performed against selected fungal and bacterial strains using tube dilution method. The antiproliferative potential was evaluated against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) and oestrogen- positive human breast carcinoma (MCF7) cancer cell lines using Sulforhodamine B assay and, results were compared to standard drugs, 5-fluorouracil and tamoxifen, respectively. Conclusion The performed antimicrobial activity indicated that compounds 3, 5, 6, 8 and 14 showed promising activity against selected microbial species. Antiproliferative screening found compound 14 to be the most potent compound against HCT116 (IC50 = 71.8 µM), whereas Compound 6 was the most potent against MCF7 (IC50 = 74.1 µM). Further, the molecular docking study has been carried to find out the interaction between active oxazole compounds with CDK8 (HCT116) and ER-α (MCF7) proteins indicated that compound 14 and 6 showed good dock score with better potency within the ATP binding pocket and may be used as a lead for rational drug designing of the anticancer molecule.

Abstract Background The transition metal complexes formed from Schiff base is regarded as leading molecules in medicinal chemistry. Because of the preparative availability and diversity in the structure of central group, the transition metals are important in coordination chemistry. In the present work, we have designed and prepared Schiff base and its metal complexes (MC 1 –MC 4 ) and screened them for antimicrobial, anticancer and corrosion inhibitory properties. Methodology The synthesized metal complexes were characterized by physicochemical and spectral investigation (UV, IR, 1H and 13C-NMR) and were further evaluated for their antimicrobial (tube dilution) and anticancer (SRB assay) activities. In addition, the corrosion inhibition potential was determined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique. Results and discussion Antimicrobial screening results found complexes (MC 1 –MC 4 ) to exhibit less antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial species compared to ofloxacin while the complex MC 1 exhibited greater antifungal activity than the fluconazole. The anticancer activity results found the synthesized Schiff base and its metal complexes to elicit poor cytotoxic activity than the standard drug (5-fluorouracil) against HCT116 cancer cell line. Metal complex MC 2 showed more corrosion inhibition efficiency with high Rct values and low Cdl values. Conclusion From the results, we can conclude that complexes MC 1 and MC 2 may be used as potent antimicrobial and anticorrosion agents, respectively.

Abstract Background Pyrimidine is an important pharmacophore in the field of medicinal chemistry and exhibit a broad spectrum of biological potentials. A study was carried out to identify the target protein of potent bis-pyrimidine derivatives using reverse docking program. PharmMapper, a robust online tool was used for identifying the target proteins based on reverse pharmacophore mapping. The murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) and human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cancer cell line used for selectivity and safety study. Methods An open web server PharmMapper was used to identify the possible target of the developed compounds through reverse pharmacophore mapping. The results were analyzed and validated through docking with Schrodinger v9.6 using 10 protein GTPase HRas selected as possible target. The docking studies with Schrödinger validated the binding behavior of bis-pyrimidine compounds within GTP binding pocket. MTT and sulforhodamine assay were used as antiproliferative activity. Results and discussion The protein was found one of the top scored targets of the compound 18, hence, the GTPase HRas protein was found crucial to be targeted for competing cancer. Toxicity study demonstrated the significant selectivity of most active compounds, 12, 16 and 18 showed negligible cell toxicity at their IC50 concentration. Conclusion From the results, we may conclude that GTPase HRas as a possible target of studied bis-pyrimidine derivatives where the retrieved information may be quite useful for rational drug designing.

Abstract Background Benzoxazole is the most important class of heterocyclic compound in medicinal chemistry. It has been incorporated in many medicinal compounds making it a versatile heterocyclic compound that possess a wide spectrum of biological activities. Results The molecular structures of synthesized benzoxazole derivatives were confirmed by physicochemical and spectral means. The synthesized compounds were further evaluated for their in vitro biological potentials i.e. antimicrobial activity against selected microbial species using tube dilution method and antiproliferative activity against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT 116) cancer cell line by Sulforhodamine B assay. Conclusion In vitro antimicrobial results demonstrated that compounds 4, 5, 7 and 16 showed promising antimicrobial potential. The in vitro anticancer activity indicated that compounds 4 and 16 showed promising anticancer activity against human colorectal cancer cell line (HCT 116) when compared to standard drug and these compounds may serve as lead compound for further development of novel antimicrobial and anticancer agents.

Abstract Background A new series of benzoxazole analogues was synthesized and checked for their in vitro antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer activities. Results and discussion The synthesized benzoxazole compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H/13C-NMR, mass and screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacterium: Bacillus subtilis, four Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi and two fungal strains: Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger using tube dilution technique and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was noted in µM and compared to ofloxacin and fluconazole. Human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cancer cell line was used for the determination of in vitro anticancer activity (IC50 value) by Sulforhodamine B assay using 5-fluorouracil as standard drug. Conclusion The performed study indicated that the compounds 1, 10, 13, 16, 19, 20 and 24 had highest antimicrobial activity with MIC values comparable to ofloxacin and fluconazole and compounds 4, 6, 25 and 26 had best anticancer activity in comparison to 5-fluorouracil.

Abstract Background Pyrimidine molecules attracted organic chemists very much due to their biological and chemotherapeutic importance. Their related fused heterocycles are of interest as potential bioactive molecules so, we have designed and prepared a new class of 4,4′-(1,4-phenylene)bis(pyrimidin-2-amine) molecules and screened for their in vitro antibacterial, antifungal and cytotoxicity studies. Results The structures of synthesized bis-pyrimidine molecules were confirmed by physicochemical and spectral means. The synthesized compounds were further evaluated for their in vitro biological potentials i.e. antimicrobial activity using tube dilution method and anticancer activity against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cancer cell line by Sulforhodamine B assay. Conclusions The biological study demonstrated that compounds s7, s8, s11, s14, s16, s17 and s18 have shown more promising antimicrobial activity with best MIC values than the cefadroxil (antibacterial) and fluconazole (antifungal) and compound s3 found to have better anticancer activity against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cancer cell line.

Abstract Background The study describes the synthesis, characterization, in vitro antimicrobial and anticancer evaluation of a series of 2-(1-benzoyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-ylthio)-N-substituted acetamide derivatives. The synthesized derivatives were also assessed for in vitro antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. The compounds found active in in vitro study were assessed for their in vivo antitubercular activity in mice models and for their inhibitory action on vital mycobacterial enzymes viz, isocitrate lyase, pantothenate synthetase and chorismate mutase. Results Compounds 8, 9 and 11 emerged out as excellent antimicrobial agents in antimicrobial assays when compared to standard antibacterial and antifungal drugs. The results of anticancer activity displayed that majority of the derivatives were less cytotoxic than standard drugs (tamoxifen and 5-fluorouracil) towards MCF7 and HCT116 cell lines. However, compound 2 (IC50 = 0.0047 µM/ml) and compound 10 (IC50 = 0.0058 µM/ml) showed highest cytotoxicity against MCF7 and HCT116 cell lines, respectively. The results of in vivo antitubercular activity revealed that a dose of 1.34 mg/kg was found to be safe for the synthesized compounds. The toxic dose of the compounds was 5.67 mg/kg while lethal dose varied from 1.81 to 3.17 mg/kg body weight of the mice. Compound 18 inhibited all the three mycobacterial enzymes to the highest level in comparison to the other synthesized derivatives but showed lesser inhibition as compared to streptomycin sulphate. Conclusions A further research on most active synthesized compounds as lead molecules may result in discovery of novel anticancer and antitubercular agents.

Aims: Facial candling is one of the traditional treatments that is claimed to be able to help in curing or reducing various allergy and inflammation conditions such as allergic rhinitis. We aimed to explore the perceptions of participants with allergic rhinitis toward their disease conditions and facial candling treatment. Materials and Methods: The study used a qualitative exploratory design, comprising 12 in-depth interviews. A semi-structured topic guide was used to explore all relevant aspects of the topic, which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim. All the interviews were conducted in a few beauty salons in purposively selected city areas in the state of Kedah, Malaysia. Results: Of the 12 patients, seven (58%) reported a positive experience of facial candling treatment, with improvement in the condition of their allergic rhinitis. Specific themes about the experience of facial candling treatment that were identified within the transcript data included knowledge about facial candling, options for disease treatment, effectiveness of facial candling, sources of information, comparison, application of treatment, treatment budget, and safety. The major strength lies in the fact that reasons for using facial candling were uncovered from the perspectives of people with allergic rhinitis through the in-depth interviews. Conclusions: The motives of these participants for using facial candling are mainly due to cultural influence and its low cost of treatment. There were mixed responses from the participants about the usefulness of facial candling. Most of the respondents had not assessed the safety of prolonged use of facial candling and regarded it as a safe procedure as this has been practiced for generations.

Murraya koenigii leaves contain mahanimbine, a carbazole alkaloid, reported with improving cholinergic neuronal transmission and reducing neuroinflammation in the CNS. The current research investigated the effects of mahanimbine on age-related memory deficits, oxidative stress, cholinergic dysfunction, amyloid formation, and neuroinflammation in aged mice (16 months old). Mahanimbine was administered (1 and 2 mg/kg, p.o.) daily to groups of aged mice for 30 days. The Morris water maze (MWM) task was performed to study spatial learning (escape latency (EL) and swimming distance (SD)) and memory (probe test). The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), acetylcholine (ACh), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), β-amyloid (Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42), β-secretase (BACE-1), as well as neuroinflammation markers (total cyclooxygenase (COX) and COX-2 expression), were measured from the isolated brain. Mahanimbine reduced the EL time and SD in the MWM test. From the probe trial, the mahanimbine-treated group spent more time in the targeted quadrant related to the age-matched control, which indicated the enhancement of memory retention. From the biochemical tests, the treatment decreased MDA, AChE, Aβ1-40, and Aβ1-42, BACE-1, total COX activity, and COX-2 expression. It also raised the brain GSH and ACh levels in aged mice compared to age-matched control. These results have supported the reversal of memory dysfunctions by mahanimbine in aged mice and hypothesized that it could be a potential target to treat age-related neurodegenerative disease.

Abstract Background Heterocyclic pyrimidine nucleus, which is an essential base component of the genetic material of deoxyribonucleic acid, demonstrated various biological activities. A series of bis-pyrimidine Schiff bases were synthesized and screened for its antimicrobial and anticancer potentials. The molecular docking study was carried to find the interaction between active molecules with receptor. Results The structures of synthesized bis-pyrimidine Schiff bases were confirmed by spectral studies. The synthesized bis-pyrimidine derivatives were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity (MIC = µmol/mL) against selected Gram positive; Gram negative bacterial and fungal strains by tube dilution method. The anticancer activity (IC50 = µmol/mL) of the synthesized compounds was determined against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cancer cell line by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Molecular docking studies provided information regarding the binding mode of active bis-pyrimidine Schiff bases with the cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) receptor. Conclusions The antimicrobial screening results indicated that compounds, q1 (MICbs = 0.83 µmol/mL), q16 (MICan = 1.54 µmol/mL and MICec = 0.77 µmol/mL), q1 and q19 (MICca = 0.41 µmol/mL) and q20 (MIC = 0.36 µmol/mL) are the most active ones. Compounds q1 (IC50 = 0.18 µmol/mL) have emerged as potent anticancer molecule against human colorectal carcinoma cancer cell line than the reference drug, 5-fluorouracil. Molecular docking studies indicated that compound q1 (the most active molecule) has the maximum hydrogen bond interaction (four) and π–π stacking (three) network among the bis-pyrimidine Schiff bases. Graphical abstract Graphical illustration of predicted binding mode of bis-pyrimidine Schiff bases in the active site of CDK8. a. Compound 1 (magenta color), b. Compound 5 (green color), c. Compound 8 (red color), d. Compound 13 (split pea color).

Abstract Background In the past few years, increased resistance of microorganisms towards antimicrobial agents become a serious health problem, so there is a need for the discovery of new antimicrobial agents. On the other hand, bis-pyrimidines possess various types of biological activity. In view of this, in the present study we have designed and synthesized a new series of bis-pyrimidine acetamides by Claisen–Schmidt condensation and screened for its in vitro antimicrobial and anticancer activities. Results The synthesized bis-pyrimidine acetamide derivatives were confirmed by IR, 1H/13C-NMR, Mass spectral studies as well C, H, N analyses. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial potential against Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis); Gram negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella enterica) bacterial and fungal (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger) strains by tube dilution technique and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) recorded in µmol/mL was comparable to reference drugs, cefadroxil (antibacterial) and fluconazole (antifungal). The in vitro anticancer activity (IC50 value) determined against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cancer cell line by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) technique and 5-fluorouracil used as reference drug. Conclusions The biological study demonstrated that compounds 3, 13, 16, 17 and 18 were found to be most active antimicrobial agents with best MIC values than the cefadroxil (antibacterial) and fluconazole (antifungal) and compounds 12, 16 and 18 found to have better anticancer activity against human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cancer cell line with best IC50 value than the 5-fluorouracil (anticancer). Graphical abstract SAR of bis-pyrimidine acetamides

Context: Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has been reported to possess antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-stress properties. Objective: Capitalizing on these therapeutic effects, this study investigated for the first time the potential of VCO on memory improvement in vivo. Materials and methods: Thirty male Wistar rats (7–8 weeks old) were randomly assigned to five groups (n = six per group). Treatment groups were administered with 1, 5 and 10 g/kg VCO for 31 days by oral gavages. The cognitive function of treated-rats were assessed using the Morris Water Maze Test. Brains were removed, homogenized and subjected to biochemical analyses of acetylcholine (ACh) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), antioxidants [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GRx)], lipid peroxidase [malondialdehyde (MDA)] as well as nitric oxide (NO). α-Tocopherol (αT; 150 mg/kg) was also included for comparison purposes. Results: VCO-fed Wistar rats exhibited significant (p 33%) and NO (≥ 34%). Overall, memory improvement by VCO was comparable to αT. Discussion and conclusion: VCO has the potential to be used as a memory enhancer, the effect of which was mediated, at least in part, through enhanced cholinergic activity, increased antioxidants level and reduced oxidative stress.