Alamar Blue Assay Research Articles

Abstract 6742: PV 10 induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy, triggering immunogenic cell death and anti-tumor immunity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract Introduction: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are complex, diverse cancers affecting mucosal linings of the upper aerodigestive tract. Globally, HNSCC is the sixth most common cancer, leading to over 890,000 new cases and more than 450,000 deaths annually. Primary risk factors include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection (HPV-positive HNSCC) and exposure to tobacco and excessive alcohol (HPV-negative HNSCC). Despite multimodal treatments, survival rates remain low due to recurrence and metastasis (R/M HNSCC), creating a need for safe, innovative therapies to reduce tumor burden with minimal adverse events. PV-10 (10% rose bengal sodium) is a novel intratumoral immunotherapeutic agent that has demonstrated promising anti-tumor activity in multiple solid tumor cancer types with few adverse effects in pre-clinical research and clinical trials. However, the role of PV-10 in HNSCCs and its role in enhancing immune response warrants further investigation. Methods: Cell viability was assessed using Alamar blue assay after PV-10 treatment of murine mEER and MTE-RAS HNSCC tumor cell lines. To evaluate the immunomodulatory properties of PV-10, we employed flow cytometry, confocal analysis, and luminescence-based assays. Additionally, we performed a DCFDA assay to measure the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and an Alexa Fluor 488 Annexin V/dead cell apoptosis assay to evaluate apoptosis. To gain insights into the mechanisms underlying PV-10's immunomodulatory effects in cancer cells and tumors from mice, western blotting and multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) were used. Results: Our in vitro findings reveal that PV-10 induces cytotoxicity in both mEER and MTE-RAS cells. Notably, PV-10 promotes a significant increase in ROS, leading to an elevation in late apoptotic cells. Markers of immunogenic cell death (ICD), including a statistically significant increase in the release of damage-associated molecular pattern molecules HMGB1 and ATP, as well as enhanced surface expression of calreticulin, HSP-70, and HSP-90, were observed. At the molecular level, a remarkable activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, pro-apoptotic protein, and autophagy markers were observed. Intratumoral PV-10 injection in vivo has shown significant tumor regression in both mEER and MTE-RAS tumors, and a complete response was noticed in some mice, indicating that PV-10 induces potent ICD in both mEER and MTE-RAS tumors. Conclusion: Our collated evidence strongly suggests that PV-10 induces ICD-associated immunogenicity in both mEER and MTE-RAS in vitro and in vivo, fostered by ROS-based ER stress and apoptosis. These findings hold promise for potential therapeutic avenues to manage HNSCC. Citation Format: Sowjanya Thatikonda, Ritu Chaudhary, Yeva Meshkovska, Maria I. Biernacki, Robbert Slebos, Shari P. Thomas, Amelio L. Antonio, Eric A. Wachter, Christine H. Chung. PV 10 induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy, triggering immunogenic cell death and anti-tumor immunity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 6742.

Abstract 1112: Modulated dNTP pools and their influence on DNA repair mechanisms and apoptosis in therapy resistant cancers

Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is a deadly primary tumor of the brain, accounting for almost half of all diagnosed malignant gliomas. Ionizing radiation (IR) and some chemotherapeutics strategically target cancer cells by causing DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). However, cancers like GBM often develop resistance to DSB-inducing therapeutics due to dysregulated DNA repair. Homologous Recombination (HR) is an error-free DSB-repair process consisting of proteins that are often dysregulated in GBM, causing overactive DNA-repair, therapy resistance, and poor patient outcomes. Proteins involved in the HR-repair process have been extensively investigated; however, therapeutic resistance remains common. Here, we provide an alternative approach to target DSB-resistant GBM by modulating the dNTP pool instead of solely targeting DNA-repair proteins. Our goal is to understand the interplay between dNTP pools and DSB- repair. dNTPs are a necessary constituent to repair DSBs; however, the role of the dNTP pool in DNA damage repair is not fully understood. Previous research shows that the dNTP pool remains unchanged after inducing DSBs, highlighting the importance of a tightly regulated dNTP pool. Using a neutral comet assay, we quantified accumulated double-stranded breaks in different treatment groups. We then analyzed these groups using immunofluorescent microscopy to examine distinct proteins involved in HR-mediated repair. We carried out RNA sequencing analysis to determine differential gene expression. We quantified cell viability and apoptotic cell populations via flow cytometry and Alamar blue assays. We determined protein interactions using immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation assays. We found that increasing the dNTP pool prior to IR treatment led to impaired DNA DSB repair in GBM cells as determined by a neutral comet assay. When analyzing key proteins involved in HR via immunofluorescence, we observed a significant decrease in RPA70 localization to the DNA damage site, indicating a disruption in end resection, a necessary phase of HR. Our RNA sequencing results show that increasing the dNTP pool in LN229 GBM cells prior to IR treatment caused significant changes in gene expression when compared to IR treatment alone. The most impacted pathways most were apoptosis, p53 cell cycle arrest, and DNA repair. The pathway analysis has identified genes of interest in the synergistic dNTP + IR treatment model. Significant increases in apoptosis and decreases in viability were observed 48 hours after inducing DSBs in LN229 cells with elevated dNTP pools. Not only do these data suggest that HR efficiency is reduced due to end resection impairment, but they also show that as a result, cell viability is destabilized due to prolonged DNA damage, resulting in apoptosis. The identification of this impairment may be essential in finding novel therapeutic approaches to sensitize therapy resistant GBM. Citation Format: Dominique Monroe, Mercy Kehinde-Ige, Edidiong Usoro, Arilyn Williams, Emily Steinbeck, Shelby Aycox, Huidong Shi, Waaqo Daddacha. Modulated dNTP pools and their influence on DNA repair mechanisms and apoptosis in therapy resistant cancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1112.

Abstract 722: A cancer-associated fibroblast model to discover mechanisms of growth, survival, and treatment sensitivity in PAX3/7-FKHR fusion-positive alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma

Abstract Introduction: Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma. Among various subtypes, alveolar RMS (ARMS) is generally more aggressive and usually carries the fusion transcription factor, PAX3/7-FKHR. High-risk ARMS has an extremely poor prognosis, with ~25% five-year survival. Hence, novel therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. However, potential therapies are often hindered by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) associated with sarcomas. The TME is highly dynamic and includes fibroblasts, immune cells, and extracellular matrix. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) may promote tumor growth and survival by secreting distinct factors to regulate proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. In this study, we investigated mechanisms involved in this phenomenon and identified a novel therapeutic strategy targeting the TME of ARMS. Methods: Cells were isolated from a PAX3-FKHR fusion-positive ARMS tumor specimen, following ethics approval and informed consent. The PAX3-FKHR fusion status and mesenchymal biomarkers were analyzed by immunoblotting. The patient’s CAFs (designated KCCF14), RMS lines (RD, RH30, RH41), and control fibroblasts (BJ, HS68, WI-38) were cultured in vitro and their respective supernatant media was harvested for subsequent experiments. Cell proliferation and viability were determined by hemocytometer and alamar blue assay, respectively. The scratch wound healing assay was used to assess cell migration. Cytokine analysis was performed with a 96-plex array. For drug screening, cells were treated with a panel of CXCR4 antagonists to generate dose-response curves. Results: KCCF14 CAFs isolated from an ARMS tumor exhibit elongated spindle morphology and are positive for mesenchymal biomarkers, including PDGFR-β and smooth muscle α-actin. As expected, these cells lack characteristics of the patient’s tumor, notably the expression of PAX3-FKHR fusion and N-myc. KCCF14-conditioned media significantly enhances ARMS cell proliferation and migration in a concentration-dependent manner. Analysis of the conditioned media revealed upregulation of key growth factors and cytokines, including PDGF-AA, VEGF-A, MCP-1, and IL-11, that promote tumor aggressiveness through proliferative signaling, angiogenesis, activation of migration, and immune evasion. Because SDF-1 (CXCR4 ligand) was also increased, we tested targeted inhibition of CXCR4, which induced cytotoxicity with increased sensitivity (IC50 = 0.5 µM) in KCCF14 cells compared to control fibroblasts. Conclusions: This study provides, for the first time, findings from a continuously growing CAF model system for RMS. Our data describes key tumor growth and survival mechanisms supported by the TME and establishes a method to identify treatments with novel therapeutic strategies. Citation Format: Patrick Sipila, Son Tran, Chunfen Zhang, Anne–Marie Langevin, Aru Narendran. A cancer-associated fibroblast model to discover mechanisms of growth, survival, and treatment sensitivity in PAX3/7-FKHR fusion-positive alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 722.

Abstract 2976: The potential use of butyrate and propionate to inhibit oncogenic phenotypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma and triple negative breast cancer

Abstract Background Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are aggressive cancers with low survival rates, particularly in Hispanics. Since the underpinning mechanisms of oncogenesis for both OSCC and TNBC are multifactorial, the development of novel targeted therapies is limited. The tumor microbiome has been shown to modulate the microenvironment. The microbial product short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) may represent a putative target for treatment as they can potentially inhibit cell growth, proliferation, migration, and induce morphologic changes in cancer cells. We evaluated the impact of the SCFAs butyrate, acetate, and propionate on the oncogenic phenotypes of OECM-1 and MDA-231 cell line models for OSCC and TNBC respectively. Methods OECM-1 and MDA-231 cell lines were cultured in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% FBS. Cytotoxicity was determined using an alamarBlue assay by treating the cells with SCFA in a series of 7 concentrations starting at 125 mM (1:2 dilution factor) for 24, 48, and 72 hours (h). Proliferation quantification was performed using trypan blue dye after treatment with SCFA for 24h, 48h and 72h. Migration and invasion were measured after treatment for 24h with SCFAs. Comparative analysis of our results was performed using GraphPad Prism v10. Results Higher concentrations of all SCFA decreased cell viability in OSCC and TNBC at all time points. In OECM-1 cells, the average inhibitory concentration of 50% (IC50) was 3mM for butyrate, 382mM for acetate, and 64mM for propionate while in MDA-MB-231 cells, the average IC50 was 4.3mM for butyrate, 462mM for acetate, and 20mM for propionate. Both OECM-1 and MDA-MB-231 cells treated with butyrate and propionate at 5mM resulted in a slower migration after 24h of treatment. Additionally, there was a significant reduction of cell number and proliferation rate after 48h and 72h of butyrate treatment at the concentrations 1mM (p=0.0425) and 5mM (p=0.0007) in OSCC. Conclusions Our results show that butyrate and propionate can reduce oncogenic phenotypes in OSCC and TNBC and may represent a potential target for the development of alternative treatment strategies for both cancers. Future work includes measuring the impact of these SCFA in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, loss of adhesion, and cell death. Citation Format: Angel J. Amaral Maisonet. The potential use of butyrate and propionate to inhibit oncogenic phenotypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma and triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2976.

Orbital shaking conditions augment human nasoseptal cartilage formation in 3D culture.

Introduction: This study aimed to determine whether a dynamic orbital shaking culture system could enhance the cartilage production and viability of bioengineered nasoseptal cartilage. Methods: Human nasal chondrocytes were seeded onto nanocellulose-alginate biomaterials and cultured in static or dynamic conditions for 14days. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction for chondrogenic gene expression (type 2 collagen, aggrecan and SOX9) was performed, demonstrating a transient rise in SOX9 expression at 1 and 7 days of culture, followed by a rise at 7 and 14days in Aggrecan (184.5-fold increase, p < 0.0001) and Type 2 Collagen (226.3-fold increase, p = 0.049) expression. Samples were analysed histologically for glycosaminoglycan content using Alcian blue staining and demonstrated increased matrix formation in dynamic culture. Results: Superior cell viability was identified in the dynamic conditions through live-dead and alamarBlue assays. Computational analysis was used to determine the shear stress experienced by cells in the biomaterial in the dynamic conditions and found that the mechanical stimulation exerted was minimal (fluid shear stress <0.02mPa, fluid pressure <48Pa). Conclusion: We conclude that the use of an orbital shaking system exerts biologically relevant effects on bioengineered nasoseptal cartilage independently of the expected thresholds of mechanical stimulation, with implications for optimising future cartilage tissue engineering efforts.

PIM Kinase Inhibition Sensitizes Neuroblastoma to Doxorubicin

BackgroundChemoresistance contributes to relapse in high-risk neuroblastoma. Cancer cells acquire resistance through multiple mechanisms, including drug efflux pumps. In neuroblastoma, multidrug resistance-associated protein-1 (MRP1/ABCC1) efflux pump expression correlates with worse outcomes. These pumps are regulated by PIM kinases, a family of serine–threonine kinases, overexpressed in neuroblastoma. We hypothesized PIM kinase inhibition would sensitize neuroblastoma cells by modulating MRP1. MethodsKocak database query evaluated ABCC1, PIM1, PIM2, and PIM3 expression in neuroblastoma patients. SK-N-AS and SK-N-BE(2) cells were treated with doxorubicin or the pan-PIM kinase inhibitor, AZD1208. Flow cytometry assessed intracellular doxorubicin accumulation. AlamarBlue assay measured viability. The lethal dose 50% (LD50) of each drug and combination indices (CI) were calculated and isobolograms constructed to determine synergy. ResultsKocak database query demonstrated positive correlation between PIM genes and ABCC1. PIM kinase inhibition increased intracellular doxorubicin accumulation in both cell lines, suggesting PIM kinase regulation of MRP1. Isobolograms showed synergy between AZD1208 and doxorubicin. ConclusionsThe correlation between PIM and ABCC1 gene expression suggests PIM kinases may contribute to neuroblastoma chemotherapeutic resistance. PIM kinase inhibition increased intracellular doxorubicin accumulation. Combination treatment with AZD1208 and doxorubicin decreased neuroblastoma cell viability in a synergistic fashion. These findings support further investigations of PIM kinase inhibition in neuroblastoma. Type of StudyBasic Science Research. Level of EvidenceNA.

Eco-friendly synthesis of mesoporous bioactive glass ceramics and functionalization for drug delivery and hard tissue engineering applications

Hard tissue regenerative mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) has traditionally been synthesized using costly and toxic alkoxysilane agents and harsh conditions. In this study, MBG was synthesized using the cheaper reagent SiO2 by using a co-precipitation approach. The surface properties of MBG ceramic were tailored by functionalizing with amino and carboxylic groups, aiming to develop an efficient drug delivery system for treating bone infections occurring during or after reconstruction surgeries. The amino groups were introduced through a salinization reaction, while the carboxylate groups were added via a chain elongation reaction. The MBG, MBG-NH2, and MBG-NH-COOH were analyzed by using various techniques: x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The XRD results confirmed the successful preparation of MBG, and the FTIR results indicated successful functionalization. BET analysis revealed that the prepared samples were mesoporous, and functionalization tuned their surface area and surface properties. Cefixime, an antibiotic, was loaded onto MBG, MBG-NH2, and MBG-NH-COOH to test their drug-carrying capacity. Comparatively, MBG-NH-COOH showed good drug loading and sustained release behavior. The release of the drug followed the Fickian diffusion mechanism. All prepared samples displayed favorable biocompatibility at higher concentration in the Alamar blue assay with MC3T3 cells and exhibited the good potential for hard tissue regeneration, as carbonated hydroxyapatite formed on their surfaces in simulated body fluid.

Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy Using a Protein Mimetic for EGFR-Positive Salivary Gland Cancer.

Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) is a novel cancer therapy based on a monoclonal antibody (mAb) conjugated to a photosensitizer (IR700Dye). The conjugate can be activated by near-infrared light irradiation, causing necrotic cell death with high selectivity. In this study, we investigated NIR-PIT using a small protein mimetic (6-7 kDa, Affibody) which has more rapid clearance and better tissue penetration than mAbs for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-positive salivary gland cancer (SGC). The level of EGFR expression was examined in vitro using immunocytochemistry and Western blotting. Cell viability was analyzed using the alamarBlue assay. In vivo, the volume of EGFR-positive tumors treated with NIR-PIT using the EGFR Affibody-IR700Dye conjugate was followed for 43 days. It was found that NIR-PIT using the EGFR Affibody-IR700Dye conjugate induced the selective destruction of EGFR-positive SGC cells and restricted the progression of EGFR-positive tumors. We expect that NIR-PIT using the EGFR Affibody-IR700Dye conjugate can efficiently treat EGFR-positive SGC and preserve normal salivary function.

An In vitro and in silico investigation of the antitrypanosomal activities of the stem bark extracts of Anopyxis klaineana (Pierre) Engl

African Trypanosomiasis caused by trypanosome parasites continues to be a major neglected health problem, particularly in developing countries. Current treatments are marked by serious side effects, low effectiveness, high toxicity, and drug resistance prompting the need to develop novel, safe, effective, and alternative antitrypanosomal compounds. Anopyxis klaineana is an ethnomedicinal plant used in West Africa to treat many ailments including protozoan diseases. In this study, we investigated the antitrypanosomal potential of stem bark extracts of A. klaineana through in vitro and in silico approaches. A. klaineana extracts were tested for their antitrypanosomal activities against Trypanosoma brucei parasite in vitro using Alamar blue assay. In addition, the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities were determined. LC-ESI-QTOF-MS was used to identify potential bioactive compounds present in the A. klaineana extracts. Bioactive compounds identified were subjected to molecular docking studies against Trypanosoma brucei's trypanothione reductase (TR) and Uridine Diphosphate Galactose 4′-Epimerase (UDP). The A. klaineana extracts (methanol, hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate) exhibited potential anti-trypanosomal activities with IC50 values of 21.25 ± 0.755,4.35 ± 0.166,2.57 ± 0.153 and 22.92 ± 2.321 μg/mL respectively. Moreover, the methanolic crude extracts showed moderate cytotoxicity against HepG2 and PNT2 cells, with IC50 values of 68.0 ± 2.05 and 78.7 ± 2.63 μg/mL respectively. LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 24 bioactive compounds with 5 being druglike. Risperidone, Ranolazine, Dihydro-7-Desacetyldeoxygedunin, 6 beta-Hydroxytriamcinolone acetonide, and Dimethylmatairesinol were identified as novel potential inhibitors of TR and UDP with binding affinities of −10.4, −7.9, −8.7, −8.4 and −7.1 kcal/mol respectively against TR and −10.8, −8.4, −8.4, −7.6 and −8.1 respectively against UDP. This study indicates that A. klaineana has potential antitrypanosomal properties and therefore may have the potential to be developed as a therapeutic intervention for treating African trypanosomiasis.

Response surface methodology optimizes selenium inhibition of prostate cancer PC-3 cell viability

BackgroundThe rising incidence of prostate cancer in the U.S. necessitates innovative therapeutic approaches to this disease. Though extensive research has studied Selenium as an anticarcinogen against prostate cancer, results have varied due to overlooked experimental confounds. Recent studies have identified differential effects of various selenium compounds on prostate cancer cells. This study leverages Mixture Design Response Surface Methodology to characterize the ideal combination of select Se forms against the PC-3 prostate cancer cell line. MethodsThe PC-3 cell line was chosen as a model for its representation of advanced-stage malignancy. Three Se compounds—sodium selenite, methylseleninic acid, and nano-selenium—were selected for their promising antineoplastic potential. Nano-Se particles were synthesized and subsequently characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Cells were cultured, treated with Se compounds, and assessed for viability using an Alamar Blue Assay. IC50 values of individual Se compounds were determined, and treatment combinations evaluated. In collaboration with statical modeling experts, MDRSM was utilized to optimize Se compound combinations. ResultsAbsolute IC50 values were identified for methylseleninic acid (5.01 μmol/L), sodium selenite (13.8 μmol/L), and nano-selenium (14.6 μmol/L). Combining methylseleninic acid and sodium selenite resulted in only 5% PC-3 cell viability, whereas individual treatments reduced viability by approximately 45%. Among the tested mixtures, the 50:50 combination of MSA and sodium selenite most effectively decreased PC-3 cell viability. Regression analysis indicated the special cubic model had a strong fit (multiple r² = 0.9853), predicting maximum cell viability reduction from the methylseleninic acid and selenite mixture. ConclusionThe specific form of Selenium plays a pivotal role in determining its physiological effects and therapeutic potential against prostate cancer. All three selenium compounds showed variable antineoplastic effects, with a 50:50 mixture of methylseleninic acid and selenite exhibiting optimal results. Nano-selenium, when combined with selenite, showed no additive effect, implying a shared mechanism of action. Our research underscores the critical need to consider Se compound forms as distinct entities in prostate cancer treatment and encourages further exploration of Se compounds against prostate cancer.

HPLC-based cytotoxicity profiling and LC-ESIQTOF-MS/MS analysis of Helichrysum leucocephalum

IntroductionHelichrysum leucocephalum Boiss. (Asteraceae) is an endemic plant to Iran. No reports have studied the cytotoxicity of the plant. The current study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of H. leucocephalum collected from Fars province (Iran) against MCF-7 and HDF cell lines using HPLC-based activity profiling and to annotate the active constituents by LC-ESIQTOF-MS/MS. MethodsH. leucocephalum was collected from three locations in Fars province. The dried flowers and leaves were separately extracted by percolation using methanol. The crude extracts were fractionated by liquid-liquid partitioning with dichloromethane (DCM) and aqueous methanol. The cytotoxicity of the fractions was evaluated against MCF-7 and HDF cells by Alamarblue assay. HPLC-based activity profiling was used to track the active constituents. LC-MS dereplication strategy was used for the annotation of the compounds in the active time window. LC-MS data were preprocessed by MZmine 3.3.0 and submitted to multivariate analysis to compare the differences and similarities in the metabolites of the samples. ResultsThe DCM fractions showed a dose-dependent cytotoxicity against the cancerous cells (IC50s, 9.8–105.1 μg/ml). In general, the metabolites of the flowers and their cytotoxicity were higher than the leaves. LCESIMS/MS analyses revealed that prenylated and geranylated α,β-unsaturated spiroketal phloroglucinols were among the active constituents. ConclusionIt can be concluded that H. leucocephalum is a rich source of phloroglucinol derivatives with cytotoxic activities. Further phytochemical analysis is needed to characterize the bioactive components.

Docking Studies, Synthesis, SAR and Anti-TB Activity of Glycinamido Analogues

Mycolic acid is a crucial component of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell wall and mycolic acid methyltransferases (MAMTs) are essential for mycolic acids to mature. In the present study, an inhouse library of 330 ligands was designed taking glycinamido moiety as scaffold. Virtual screening was carried out with this library of compounds against MmaA1 as the target protein. About 55 hits were identified through docking, ADMET studies and these molecules were synthesized by the Schotten-Baumann reaction followed by a nucleophilic substitution reaction. All the compounds were subjected to in vitro anti-Tb screening by microplate alamar blue assay (MABA). The Mdb1, Mdb4 &amp; Meb1 exhibited excellent activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv bacilli strain with an MIC of 1.56 µg/mL. The SAR studies shows that the aryl ring attached directly to the nitrogen atom as present in 2(-N-substituted glycinamido) derivatives is essential for the compound to exhibit potent anti-TB activity.

ROS Scavenging Effect of Selected Isoflavones in Provoked Oxidative Stress Conditions in Human Skin Fibroblasts and Keratinocytes.

Isoflavones, belonging to polyphenolic compounds, show structural similarity to natural estrogens, and in this context, they have been extensively studied. Some of them are also applied as cosmetic additives; however, little is known regarding their effects on skin cells. In this investigation, common isoflavones, including genistein, daidzein, glycitein, formononetin, and biochanin A, as well as coumestrol, were evaluated for antioxidant activity and their impact on human skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Antioxidant effects were assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests, and the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) was tested in cells with H2O2-provoked oxidative stress. The impact on the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) was also explored. As shown by Alamar Blue and neutral red uptake assays, the compounds were not toxic within the tested concentration range, and formononetin and coumestrol even demonstrated a stimulatory effect on cells. Coumestrol and biochanin A demonstrated significant antioxidative potential, leading to a significant decrease in ROS in the cells stimulated by H2O2. Furthermore, they influenced enzyme activity, preventing depletion during induced oxidative stress, and also reduced MDA levels, demonstrating protection against lipid peroxidation. In turn, genistein, daidzein, and glycitein exhibited low antioxidant capacity.

Sythesis, characterisation, anticancer and antimicrobial activity of Ag-N-heterocyclic carbene complexes containing benzimidazole derivatives

To prepare a novel series of silver(I) complexes, the interaction of benzimidazolium salts having their two nitrogen atoms substituted by bulky groups with Ag2O in DCM has been carried out. Their structures were characterized by elemental analyses, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, elemental analysis, and IR spectroscopy techniques. Further, the antimicrobial and antifungal activities properties of both the salts and their silver(I)–NHC complexes were tested against positive and negative bacteria using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the European Committee for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) respectively. The results show that silver complexes are effective against E. coli, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus bacterial species with moderate to high activity, and their minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 25 to 400 µg/Ml. It was also observed that 3b compound, which has the best antifungal properties among the synthesized compounds, showed high antimicrobial activity when all bacterial species were taken into account. In addition, the salts and complexes were then evaluated for their ability to inhibit the proliferation of four different cancer cell lines (A549, MCF-7, HCT116, SH-SY5Y and BEAS-2B cells lines). AlamarBlue assay demonstrated that the salts and complexes exhibited potent cytotoxicity towards all cancer lines. 2c compound showed the highest cytotoxic activity against BEAS-2B, A549 and MCF-7 cell lines. Except for 2c, compounds 3d, 3e and 3f showed cytotoxic activity at the lowest concentrations against MCF7 cell line.The study highlights the importance of N-heterocyclic carbene ligands in the development of silver-based drugs with anticancer properties.

Bio-pesticidal, Antimicrobial, and Anti-inflammatory Potentials of n-Hexane Fraction of Zanthoxylum armatum DC and its Chemical Profiling

Zanthoxylum armatum DC, commonly known as toothache tree, is utilized for treating inflamed gums. The plant’s volatile constituent possesses a robust fragrance and contributes to its tangy taste. This study investigates the bioactivities, including bio-pesticidal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties as well as the chemical profiling of the n-hexane fraction based on GC-MS analysis. The evaluated activities involve contact toxicity, microplate alamar blue assay, against three different insects, five bacteria, and seven fungi, and oxidative burst assay. The NIST library serves as a standard reference database for constituent identification. Remarkable insecticidal activities comparable to the standard drug permethrin were observed, particularly against Rhyzopertha dominica (100%), Tribolium castaneum (60%), and Sitophilus oryzae (50%). The fraction exhibited significant antifungal activity against Fusarium lini (85%) and notable inhibition against B. subtillis (67.27%) and S. aureus (65.25%). Potent anti-inflammatory effects were noted with an IC50 value of 11.2±1.9 μg/ml, equivalent to standard ibuprofen at various concentrations. GC-MS analysis identified twenty compounds, with major ones including trans-13-octadecenoic acid (36.08%), cis-9 hexadecenoic acid (18.66%), and 2-propenoic acid 3 phenyl methyl ester (11.08%). The diverse bioactivities observed may be attributed to the varied nature of compounds such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and their oxides. This research revealed the potential of Z. armatum as a potential bio-pesticide, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent.

A150 DEVELOPMENT OF MIMETIC MATRICES AS INSTRUCTIVE ORGANOIDS MICROENVIRONMENT FOR THE STUDY OF COLONIC DISEASES

Abstract Background The functional complexity of the colonic epithelium is dependent on its interaction with the microenvironment involving gradients of soluble factors, extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and stiffness. The influence of dynamic changes in the ECM has been observed in tumours, with variations in protein expression and rigidity. Their biomolecular impacts on epithelial cell behaviour are less studied due to the structural complexity of the matrix. Organoids offers a novel approach for the study of ECM biodynamics, as they require a matrix (Matrigel) to develop. Previous work showed that it is possible to grow organoids in hydrogels other than Matrigel. To evaluate the effect of matrix composition alteration on cancer initiation, we developed biofunctionalized composite hydrogels that mimic the ECM changes (chemical and physical) observed in the BmpR1a-deficient telocytes Foxl1 + (Bmpr1a△Foxl1+) mouse model of colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation. Aims The development of mimetic matrices, in association with organoids, would enable us to uncover the impact of matrix deregulation on colonic cells behaviour in pathogenesis process. Methods These hydrogels were made of alginate and 8-arm polyethylene glycol- vinyl sulfone (PEG) macromers bearing cysteine residues (CYS) and peptides. Four peptides derived from fibronectin, laminin 111, collagen I and collagen IV were used to mimic the ECM changes in the Bmpr1a△Foxl1+ colon. The grafting of CYS on alginate or peptides on PEG macromers was first characterized by thiol quantification assays. The non-grafted peptides were also analysed by uHPLC. Stiffness of the hydrogels was then determined by dynamic mechanical analysis. Finally, normal mouse organoids were seeded on hydrogels and evaluated for survival by live/dead labeling and proliferation by Alamar blue assays. Matrigel was used as a control. Results Chemical characterization revealed that CYS were grafted onto the alginate chain at around 190 μmol/g alginate. The PEG macromers were functionalized with four peptides at concentration varying from 0.25 to 1.5 mM. Rigidity of the hydrogels depends on the concentration of alginate used where lower concentration leads to soft matrix (0.5 kPa, homeostasis) and high concentration produced a stiff matrix (4 kPa, diseased). Organoids seeded in these mimetic composite hydrogels survived and proliferated in comparison to alginate alone. Conclusions Our results indicate that we can develop mimetic composite hydrogels where colon organoids can survive and thrive. This is a breakthrough model for defining the roles of ECM mechanical and biochemical stimuli in epithelial behaviour during the initiation and development of CRC. Funding Agencies CIHR

Extracellular freezing induces a permeability transition in the inner membrane of muscle mitochondria of freeze-sensitive but not freeze-tolerant Chymomyza costata larvae.

Background: Many insect species have evolved the ability to survive extracellular freezing. The search for the underlying principles of their natural freeze tolerance remains hampered by our poor understanding of the mechanistic nature of freezing damage itself. Objectives: Here, in search of potential primary cellular targets of freezing damage, we compared mitochondrial responses (changes in morphology and physical integrity, respiratory chain protein functionality, and mitochondrial inner membrane (IMM) permeability) in freeze-sensitive vs. freeze-tolerant phenotypes of the larvae of the drosophilid fly, Chymomyza costata. Methods: Larvae were exposed to freezing stress at -30°C for 1h, which is invariably lethal for the freeze-sensitive phenotype but readily survived by the freeze-tolerant phenotype. Immediately after melting, the metabolic activity of muscle cells was assessed by the Alamar Blue assay, the morphology of muscle mitochondria was examined by transmission electron microscopy, and the functionality of the oxidative phosphorylation system was measured by Oxygraph-2K microrespirometry. Results: The muscle mitochondria of freeze-tolerant phenotype larvae remained morphologically and functionally intact after freezing stress. In contrast, most mitochondria of the freeze-sensitive phenotype were swollen, their matrix was diluted and enlarged in volume, and the structure of the IMM cristae was lost. Despite this morphological damage, the electron transfer chain proteins remained partially functional in lethally frozen larvae, still exhibiting strong responses to specific respiratory substrates and transferring electrons to oxygen. However, the coupling of electron transfer to ATP synthesis was severely impaired. Based on these results, we formulated a hypothesis linking the observed mitochondrial swelling to a sudden loss of barrier function of the IMM.

Galbanic acid suppresses melanoma cell migration and invasion by reducing MMP activity and downregulating N-cadherin and fibronectin.

High mortality rate of melanoma is due to the metastasis of malignant cells. Galbanic acid (GBA) is a natural sesquiterpene coumarin with valuable pharmaceutical activities. Our study aimed to investigate whether GBA can affect the migration, invasion, and adhesion of melanoma cells. The survival rate of B16F10 cells was measured using the alamarBlue assay. Scratch, adhesion, and invasion assays were performed to determine the effect of GBA on metastatic behavior of cells. Moreover, gelatin zymography was done to assess the activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and qRT-PCR was used to investigate the effect of GBA on the expression of candidate genes. Based on the results of alamarBlue assay, 40µM GBA was chosen as the optimum concentration for all tests. Our findings indicated that GBA significantly decreased the invasion and migration of B16F10 cells while enhancing their adhesion ability. In addition, gelatin zymography demonstrated that GBA reduced the enzymatic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Moreover, qRT-PCR revealed that GBA reduced the expression of N-cadherin and fibronectin. Current findings demonstrated, for the first time, that GBA inhibited the migration and invasion of melanoma cells via reducing the activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and downregulating N-cadherin and fibronectin expression. Accordingly, GBA could be suggested as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of melanoma.

High-throughput cell optoporation system based on Au nanoparticle layers mediated by resonant irradiation for precise and controllable gene delivery

The development of approaches based on genetically modified cells is accompanied by a constant intensive search for new effective and safe delivery systems and the study of existing ones. Recently, we developed a new plasmonic nanoparticle layers-mediated optoporation system that can be proposed for precisely controlled, high-performance laser transfection compatible with broad types of cells and delivered objects of interest. The main goal of the present study is to demonstrate the broad possibilities and advantages of our system for optoporation of several mammalian cells, classified as "easy-to-transfect" cells, namely HeLa and CHO lines, and "hard-to-transfect" cells, namely A431 and RAW 264.7 cells. We show the efficient delivery of various sized cargo molecules: from small molecular dyes propidium iodide (PI) with molecular mass 700 Da, control plasmids (3–10 kb) to fluorophore-labeled dextranes with masses ranging from 10 kDa up to 100 kDa. The performance of optoporation was investigated for two types of laser sources, 800-nm continuous-wave laser, and 1064-nm ns pulsed laser. We provided a comparative study between our system and commercial agent Lipofectamine for transient transfection and stable transfection of HeLa cells with plasmids encoding fluorescent proteins. The quantitative data analysis using flow cytometry, Alamar blue viability assay, and direct fluorescence microscopy revealed higher optoporation efficacy for hard-to-transfect A431 cells and Raw 264.7 cells than lipofection efficacy. Finally, we demonstrated the optoporation performance at the single-cell level by successful delivering PI to the individual CHO cells with revealed high viability for at least 72 h post-irradiation.

Bimetallic S. pachycarpa@Ag-Doped ZnO Alloy Nanoparticles Unveil Therapeutic Promise: Revolutionizing Multiple Myeloma Treatment

In recent years, nanoscience has emerged as a prominent research field, focusing on exploring the therapeutic properties of herbal medicine. This research presents the green synthesis of Ag-doped ZnO nanoparticles using the fruit extract of Sophora pachycarpa (S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs). Various characterization methods, including XRD, EDAX, TEM, and FT-IR, were employed to identify the nanoparticles. The XRD technique confirmed the crystallinity of S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs, with an average size of 47nm. In this investigation, we explored the potential toxicity of S. pachycarpa fruit extract and S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs on U266B1 cells. The cells were treated for 24 and 72hours with varying concentrations (0.5-1mg/ml) of S. pachycarpa and S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs. The percentage of cell viability was determined using the AlamarBlue Assay. Additionally, the expression level of the P53 gene was evaluated by Real-Time PCR, with the β-actin gene serving as an internal reference gene for comparison. Viability results demonstrated that approximately 92% and 62% of cells remained alive after treatment with 1mg/ml dose of S. pachycarpa for 24 and 72hours, respectively, compared to the control. In the case of cells treated with S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs, an IC50 of 585.664µg/ml was acquired after 24h of treatment. The expression level of P53 in cells treated with S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs and S. pachycarpa significantly increased in a concentration-dependent manner, reaching 10380 and 1.62 fold expressions in 2mg/ml of S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs and S. pachycarpa, respectively. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that S. pachycarpa@Ag-doped ZnO NPs can be considered a new avenue for Multiple myeloma (MM) treatment. However, further studies are necessary to identify more detailed aspects of the drug's mechanism of action, such as investigating the signaling pathway and protein level via western blotting.