Inhibition Of Enzyme Activity Research Articles

Biochemical Characterization of a Marine Pseudoalteromonas citrea-Derived Fatty Acyl-AMP Ligase That Exhibits N-Acyl Amino Acid Synthetic Activity.

Activation of fatty acids as acyl-adenylates by fatty acid-AMP ligase (FAAL) is a well-established process contributing to the formation of various functional natural products. Enzymatic characterization of FAALs is pivotal for unraveling both the catalytic mechanism and its role in specific biosynthetic pathways. In this study, we recombinantly expressed and characterized a novel FAAL derived from marine Pseudoalteromonas citrea (PcFAAL). PcFAAL was a cold-adapted neutral enzyme, demonstrating optimal activity at 30°C and pH 7.5. Notably, its specific activity relied on the presence of Mg2+; however, higher concentrations exceeding 10mM resulted in inhibition of enzyme activity. Various organic solvents, especially water-immiscible organic solvents, demonstrated an activating effect on the activity of PcFAAL on various fatty acids. The specific activity exhibited a remarkable 50-fold increase under 4% (v/v) n-hexane compared to the aqueous system. PcFAAL displayed a broad spectrum of fatty acid substrate selectivity, with the highest specific activity for octanoic acid (C8:0), and the catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) for octanoic acid was determined to be 1.8nM-1·min-1. Furthermore, the enzyme demonstrated biocatalytic promiscuity in producing a class of N-acyl amino acid natural products, as verified by LC-ESI MS. Results indicated that the PcFAAL exhibits promiscuity towards 10 different kinds of amino acids and further demonstrated their potential value in the biosynthesis of corresponding functional N-acyl amino acids.

Bensulfuron methyl induced multiple stress responses in the field wheat plants: Microbial community and metabolic network disturbance

Sulfonylurea (SU) herbicides are widely used and often detected in environmental matrices and have toxic effects on ecosystems and plant development. However, the interaction between SU and soil-plant metabolism during the whole wheat growth cycle remains poorly investigated. Field trials demonstrated that bensulfuron methyl exposure reduced wheat height and a thousand grains' weight, disrupting the critical metabolic pathways, including linoleic acid and amino acid metabolism in the maturity stage. During different growth processes, bensulfuron methyl exposure decreases wheat soil and plants' defense-related indole alkaloid compounds, such as benzoxazinoids and melatonin. Microbial sequencing results showed that bensulfuron methyl treated decreased the abundance of beneficial microorganisms (Gammaproteobacteria, Bacteroidia, and Blastocatella) in the rhizosphere soil, which positively correlated with the inhibition of soil enzyme activity and the secretion of allelopathic substances (benzoxazinoids and melatonin). Molecular docking further confirmed that bensulfuron methyl affects protein molecular structure by establishing hydrogen bonds, which disequilibrate wheat benzoxazinoids and melatonin metabolism. Therefore, bensulfuron methyl exposure disrupted the interaction between soil microorganisms and indole alkaloid metabolism, hindering plant development. This study provides constructive insights into the environmental risks of herbicides and agricultural product safety throughout wheat development.

From X-ray crystallographic structure to intrinsic thermodynamics of protein-ligand binding using carbonic anhydrase isozymes as a model system.

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) was among the first proteins whose X-ray crystal structure was solved to atomic resolution. CA proteins have essentially the same fold and similar active centers that differ in only several amino acids. Primary sulfonamides are well defined, strong and specific binders of CA. However, minor variations in chemical structure can significantly alter their binding properties. Over 1000 sulfonamides have been designed, synthesized and evaluated to understand the correlations between the structure and thermodynamics of their binding to the human CA isozyme family. Compound binding was determined by several binding assays: fluorescence-based thermal shift assay, stopped-flow enzyme activity inhibition assay, isothermal titration calorimetry and competition assay for enzyme expressed on cancer cell surfaces. All assays have advantages and limitations but are necessary for deeper characterization of these protein-ligand interactions. Here, the concept and importance of intrinsic binding thermodynamics is emphasized and the role of structure-thermodynamics correlations for the novel inhibitors of CA IX is discussed - an isozyme that is overexpressed in solid hypoxic tumors, and thus these inhibitors may serve as anticancer drugs. The abundant structural and thermodynamic data are assembled into the Protein-Ligand Binding Database to understand general protein-ligand recognition principles that could be used in drug discovery.

Enhanced anti-ovarian cancer efficacy with MSLN-chimeric antigen receptor T cells secreting anti-CD39 antibody.

e17553 Background: The effectiveness of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy directed at mesothelin (MSLN) in solid tumors, such as ovarian cancer, is hindered by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), where adenosine plays a crucial role in impairing CAR-T cell function. Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that targeting CD39, a pivotal enzyme catalyzing the conversion of extracellular ATP into adenosine, yields significant antitumor effects. Therefore, combining MSLN CAR-T with an anti-CD39 antibody emerges as a potential therapeutic strategy against cancer. Methods: We have previously designed OriA631, an antibody antagonist targeting CD39 in VHH format. Our preclinical investigation has highlighted the outstanding potential of OriA631, showcasing superior performance in binding affinity, effective inhibition of CD39 enzyme activity, and remarkable in vivo high anti-tumor efficacy. Subsequently, we undertook further engineering of MSLN CAR-T cells to secrete the VHH component of OriA631 (MSLN CAR-T-CD39-VHH) and systematically assessed its antitumor effects in NSG mice. Results: Our data reveals that MSLN CAR-T cells exhibit a significant upregulation of CD39 upon activation by ovarian cancer cells in both in vitro and in the tumor microenvironment (TME). To assess the combined effect of MSLN CAR-T with anti-CD39, B-NDG mice were subcutaneously inoculated with 3x10^6 ovarian cancer cells (SKOV3-MSLNhi-CD39hi). Subsequently, different T cells (1x10^7 cells/mouse) were injected when the tumor reached around 80 mm³, and the groups were divided into Mock T, MSLN CAR-T, MSLN CAR-T-CD39-VHH, and MSLN CAR-T in combination with locally injected CD39 Ab (OriA631). The data demonstrated that MSLN CAR-T inhibited tumor growth from approximately 1000mm³ (Mock T group) to 300mm³ at day 30 relative to T cell injection. Tumors in the MSLN CAR-T in combination with OriA631 group were around 100mm³, suggesting a significant combination anti-tumor efficacy of MSLN CAR-T in conjunction with CD39 targeting. Furthermore, MSLN CAR-T-CD39-VHH, where MSLN CAR-T cells secrete the VHH component of OriA631, completely eliminated the tumor at day 18 with no relapse during the experimental period. This result underscores the superior anti-tumor efficacy of MSLN CAR-T-CD39-VHH, with the high level of VHH component of CD39 Ab observed in the TME. Importantly, the low or undetectable level of VHH component of CD39 Ab in the serum also indicates the safety of the product. Conclusions: Our study introduces the innovative therapeutic agent MSLN CAR-T-CD39-VHH, showcasing superior anti-tumor efficacy and the potential for reduced antibody-associated side effects. These findings strongly endorse the application of MSLN CAR-T-CD39-VHH as a promising and impactful therapeutic approach for the treatment of ovarian cancer.

Elucidating the mechanism of amylolytic enzyme activity inhibition by rice glutelin amyloid fibril aggregates

Elucidating the mechanism of amylolytic enzyme activity inhibition by rice glutelin amyloid fibril aggregates

Characterization of AB598, a CD39 Enzymatic Inhibitory Antibody for the Treatment of Solid Tumors.

AB598 is a CD39 inhibitory antibody being pursued for the treatment of solid tumors in combination with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. CD39 metabolizes extracellular adenosine triphosphate (eATP), an alarmin capable of promoting antitumor immune responses, into adenosine, an immuno-inhibitory metabolite. By inhibiting CD39, the consumption of eATP is reduced, resulting in a proinflammatory milieu in which eATP can activate myeloid cells to promote antitumor immunity. The preclinical characterization of AB598 provides a mechanistic rationale for combining AB598 with chemotherapy in the clinic. Chemotherapy can induce ATP release from tumor cells and, when preserved by AB598, both chemotherapy-induced eATP and exogenously added ATP promote the function of monocyte-derived dendritic cells via P2Y11 signaling. Inhibition of CD39 in the presence of ATP can promote inflammasome activation in in vitro-derived macrophages, an effect mediated by P2X7. In a MOLP8 murine xenograft model, AB598 results in full inhibition of intratumoral CD39 enzymatic activity, an increase in intratumoral ATP, a decrease of extracellular CD39 on tumor cells, and ultimately, control of tumor growth. In cynomolgus monkeys, systemic dosing of AB598 results in effective enzymatic inhibition in tissues, full peripheral and tissue target engagement, and a reduction in cell surface CD39 both in tissues and in the periphery. Taken together, these data support a promising therapeutic strategy of harnessing the eATP generated by standard-of-care chemotherapies to prime the tumor microenvironment for a productive antitumor immune response.

Pyrazoles have a multifaceted anti-inflammatory effect targeting prostaglandin E2, cyclooxygenases and leukocytes’ oxidative burst

Elevated levels of prostaglandin E2 have been implicated in the pathophysiology of various diseases. Anti-inflammatory drugs that act through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymatic activity, thereby leading to the suppression of prostaglandin E2, are often associated with several side effects due to their non-specific inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes. Consequently, the targeted suppression of prostaglandin E2 production with innovative molecules and/or mechanisms emerges as a compelling therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory-related diseases. Therefore, in this study, a systematic analysis of 28 pyrazole derivatives was conducted to explore their potential mechanisms for reducing prostaglandin E2 levels. In this context, the evaluation of these derivatives extended to examining their capacity to reduce prostaglandin E2in vitro in human whole blood, inhibit cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes, modulate cyclooxygenase-2 expression, and suppress oxidative burst in human leukocytes. The results enabled the establishment of significant structure-activity relationships, elucidating key determinants for their activities. In particular, the 4-styryl group on the pyrazole moiety and the presence of chloro substitutions were identified as key determinants. Pyrazole 8 demonstrated the capacity to reduce prostaglandin E2 levels by downregulating cyclooxygenase-2 expression, and pyrazole-1,2,3-triazole 18 emerged as a dual-acting agent, inhibiting human leukocytes' oxidative burst and cyclooxygenase-2 activity. Furthermore, pyrazole 26 demonstrated effective reduction of prostaglandin E2 levels through selective cyclooxygenase-1 inhibition. These results underscore the multifaceted anti-inflammatory potential of pyrazoles, providing new insights into the substitutions and structural frameworks that are beneficial for the studied activity.

The influence of drug-induced metabolic enzyme activity inhibition and CYP3A4 gene polymorphism on aumolertinib metabolism

The purpose of this study is to clarify the drug interaction profile of aumolertinib, and the influence of CYP3A4 genetic polymorphism on aumolertinib metabolic characteristics. Through microsomal enzyme reactions, we screened 153 drugs and identified 15 that significantly inhibited the metabolism of aumolertinib. Among them, telmisartan and carvedilol exhibited potent inhibitory activities in rat liver microsomes (RLM) and human liver microsomes (HLM). In vivo, the pharmacokinetic parameters of aumolertinib, including AUC and Cmax, were significantly altered when co-administered with carvedilol, with a notable decrease in the clearance rate CLz/F. Interestingly, the pharmacokinetic parameters of the metabolite HAS-719 exhibited a similar trend as aumolertinib when co-administered. Mechanistically, both telmisartan and carvedilol exhibited a mixed-type inhibition on the metabolism of aumolertinib. Additionally, we used a baculovirus-insect cell expression system to prepare 24 recombinant CYP3A4 microsomes and obtained enzymatic kinetic parameters using aumolertinib as a substrate. Enzyme kinetic studies obtained the kinetic parameters of various CYP3A4 variant-mediated metabolism of aumolertinib. Based on the relative clearance rates, CYP3A4.4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 33, and 34 showed significantly lower clearance rates compared to the wild-type. Among the different CYP3A4 variants, the inhibitory potency of telmisartan and carvedilol on the metabolism of aumolertinib also varied. The IC50 values of telmisartan and carvedilol in CYP3A4.1 were 6.68 ± 1.76 μM and 0.60 ± 0.25 μM, respectively, whereas in CYP3A4.12, the IC50 exceeded 100 μM. Finally, we utilized adeno-associated virus to achieve liver-specific high expression of CYP3A4*1 and CYP3A4*12. In the group with high expression of the less active CYP3A4*12, the magnitude of the drug-drug interaction was significantly attenuated. In conclusion, CYP3A4 genetic polymorphism not only influences the pharmacokinetic characteristics of aumolertinib, but also the inhibitory potency of telmisartan and carvedilol on it.

Metabolism-Based Nontarget-Site Mechanism Is the Main Cause of a Four-Way Resistance in Shortawn Foxtail (Alopecurus aequalis Sobol.).

Alopecurus aequalis Sobol. is a predominant grass weed in Chinese winter wheat fields, posing a substantial threat to crop production owing to its escalating herbicide resistance. This study documented the initial instance of an A. aequalis population (AHFT-3) manifesting resistance to multiple herbicides targeting four distinct sites: acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), acetolactate synthase, photosystem II, and 1-deoxy-d-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase. AHFT-3 carried an Asp-to-Gly mutation at codon 2078 of ACCase, with no mutations in the remaining three herbicide target genes, and exhibited no overexpression of any target gene. Compared with the susceptible population AHFY-3, AHFT-3 metabolized mesosulfuron-methyl, isoproturon, and bixlozone faster. The inhibition and comparison of herbicide-detoxifying enzyme activities indicated the participation of cytochrome P450s in the resistance to all four herbicides, with glutathione S-transferases specifically linked to mesosulfuron-methyl. Three CYP72As and a Tau class glutathione S-transferase, markedly upregulated in resistant plants, potentially played pivotal roles in the multiple-herbicide-resistance phenotype.

Phytoconstituents of Nymphaea rubra flowers and their anti-diabetic metabolic targets

Nymphaea rubra (N. rubra) flowers are prevalent in subtropical regions for both dietary and traditional medicinal purposes, attributing to their beneficial properties in supporting overall health. This study first time provides descriptions of the antidiabetic and dyslipidemic properties employing STZ induced high fat diet fed diabetic rats and inhibition of α-amylase enzyme activity first by in vitro analyses, followed by a confirmatory in silico study to create a stronger biochemical rationale. Furthermore, in 3 T3-L1 cells, this extract promoted the suppression of adipogenesis. GC–MS investigation of the ethyl acetate fraction of ethanolic extract of N. rubra flowers revealed the presence of marker compounds of N. rubra, Nuciferine, and Apomorphine, which were the focus of molecular docking studies. The acquired concentrations of Nuciferine (22.39%) and 10, 11-dimethoxy-Apomorphine (1.47%) were detected. Together with other alkaloids identified by GC–MS analysis from this extract, mechanistically suggested that it might be caused by the synergistic impact of these bioactive chemicals. Molecular docking has been done to check the binding affinities of various isolated phytochemicals with HPAA, the dose-response effect of 100 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg of flower extract after 30 days showed a significant effect on body weight, food, water intake, serum insulin, FBG, OGTT, lipid profile, glycated haemoglobin, liver and kidney function test. Kidney histopathology results show a significant effect. These findings offer a strong foundation for the potential application of the ethyl acetate fraction of ethanolic extract from Nymphaea rubra flowers and its bioactive constituent in an in vivo system for the treatment and control of diabetes and its associated condition dyslipidemia.

Bioactivity Profiling of Daedaleopsis confragosa (Bolton) J. Schröt. 1888: Implications for Its Possible Application in Enhancing Women's Reproductive Health.

This study investigates the bioactivity profile of wood-rotting fungal species Daedaleopsis confragosa (Bolton) J. Schröt. 1888, focusing on its antioxidant, cytotoxic, and genotoxic activities and enzyme modulation properties with respect to its possible application in terms of enhancing women's reproductive health. Two types of extracts, including those based on EtOH extraction (DC) and hydrodistillation (DCHD), were investigated. The results indicate that the radical scavenging capacity against the DPPH radical and reduction potential were stronger in the DC extracts owing to the higher total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) (25.30 ± 1.05 mg GAE/g d.w. and 2.84 ± 0.85 mg QE/g d.w., respectively). The same trend was observed in the protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) activity and in the genotoxic activity against the δ virus since only the DC extract exhibited DNA disintegration regarding a dilution of 1:100. Conversely, the DCHD extract exhibited increased hemolytic and cytotoxic effects (339.39% and IC50 = 27.76 ± 0.89 μg/mL-72 h incubation, respectively), along with greater inhibition of the AChE enzyme (IC50 = 3.11 ± 0.45 mg/mL) and hemolytic activity. These results suggest that terpenoids and steroids may be responsible for the observed activity in DCHD as these compounds could potentially be extracted following the HD procedure. This comprehensive bioactivity profiling offers valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of D. confragosa from Serbia and underscores the importance of further investigations for harnessing its pharmacological potential.

Synthesis, characterization, cytotoxicity study, interaction with DNA and topoisomerase IIα of square-planar complexes with thiosemicarbazones

In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of eight new palladium complexes and a nickel complex containing thiosemicarbazone ligands derived from chalcones and benzalketones. The techniques of Infrared and UV–visible spectroscopy, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Mass Spectrometry, and Elemental Analysis fully characterized the compounds. Crystallography was successful for five complexes and two ligands, allowing for X-ray Diffraction analysis. Molecular docking studies and assays involving DNA interaction via agarose gel electrophoresis and UV–Vis titration revealed no DNA interaction or inhibition of topoisomerase IIα enzyme activity. However, these compounds demonstrated potent cytotoxic effects (IC50) against breast tumor (MCF-7) and prostate (DU-145) cell lines, as well as non-tumor prostate (PNT2) cell lines. These findings highlight the relevance of structural variations and the metallic center's nature in achieving cytotoxic effects, offering insights into the development of bioactive compounds.

The influence of the model pesticides parathion and paraoxon on human cytochrome P450 and associated oxygenases in HepaRG cells

Introduction Intentional and unintentional organophosphorus pesticide exposure is a public health concern. Organothiophosphate compounds require metabolic bioactivation by the cytochrome P450 system to their corresponding oxon analogues to act as potent inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase. It is known that interactions between cytochrome P450 and pesticides include the inhibition of major xenobiotic metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes and changes on the genetic level. Methods In this in vitro study, the influence of the pesticides parathion and paraoxon on human cytochrome P450 and associated oxygenases was investigated with a metabolically competent cell line (HepaRG cells). First, the viability of the cells after exposure to parathion and paraoxon was evaluated. The inhibitory effect of both pesticides on cytochrome P450 3A4, which is a pivotal enzyme in the metabolism of xenobiotics, was examined by determining the dose-response curve. Changes on the transcription level of 92 oxygenase associated genes, including those for important cytochrome P450 enzymes, were evaluated. Results The exposure of HepaRG cells to parathion and paraoxon at concentrations up to 100 µM resulted in a viability of 100 per cent. After exposure for 24 hours, pronounced inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme activity was shown, indicating 50 per cent effective concentrations of 1.2 µM (parathion) and 2.1 µM (paraoxon). The results revealed that cytochrome P450 involved in parathion metabolism were significantly upregulated. Discussion Relevant changes of the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme activity and significant alteration of genes associated with cytochrome P450 suggest an interference of pesticide exposure with numerous metabolic processes. The major limitations of the work involve the use of a single pesticide and the in vitro model as surrogate to human hepatocytes. Conclusion The data of this study might be of relevance after survival of acute, life-threatening intoxications with organophosphorus compounds, particularly for the co-administration of drugs, which are metabolized by the affected cytochrome P450.

Exploring the relationship between dietary rapeseed meal, condensed tannin and growth, nutrive metabolism in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study evaluated the effects of rapeseed meal (RM) and condensed tannin (CT) on the growth and nutritional metabolism of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), and speculated whether there was interaction between anti-nutritional factors in RM. Eight diets were formulated for 55-day feeding trial, six of which were practical diet groups, including control group (CG), five RM inclusive groups with graded RM levels of 5% (RM5), 10% (RM10), 15% (RM15), 20% (RM20) and 25% (RM25) partially replacing fishmeal, and the other two were semi-purified diets with 0.062% CT (CT5) ≈ the CT content in the RM5 and 0.31% CT (CT25) ≈ the CT content in the RM25. The results of the experiments on replacing fishmeal with RM demonstrated that with the increase of RM substitution level, the weight gain rate (WGR), survival rate (SR) and specific growth rate (SGR) of largemouth bass showed a downward trend. High levels of RM led to the inhibition of digestive enzyme activity in largemouth bass, as well as the manifestation of abnormal markers related to protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism in both plasma and liver. RM reduced muscle protein and fat content, although the effect was not statistically significant at 5% RM level. The results of CT concentration experiments showed that the addition of 0.31% CT significantly reduced WGR, SGR, SR, protein efficiency ratio (PER) and gastrointestinal digestive enzyme activity, and significantly increased the feed coefficient ratio (FCR), plasma ammonia (PA), plasma glucose (PG), and hepatic glycogen (HG) and liver triglyceride (TG). The addition of 0.062% CT significantly reduced PG and HG. Supplementation of CT significantly reduced muscle fat. Among the groups of CT supplementation and RM, CT5 exhibited superior WGR, PER and FCR compared to RM5, along with enhanced intestinal trypsin, amylase activity, liver glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activity and decreased content of HG and liver TG; CT25 exhibited decreased activities of gastric lipase (LPS), enteric trypsin and pepsin, and increased content of total cholesterol (T-CHO) and glucose in plasma in compariosn to RM25, accompanied with no significant change in growth performance. Therefore, largemouth bass exhibited tolerance to a 5% inclusion of RM in the feed without compromising their growth, digestion and metabolic functions. The incorporation of 5% RM, equivalent to a supplemental 0.062% CT, had regulatory effects on the digestion and metabolism of largemouth bass while improving feed utilization. There was an interaction among anti-nutritional factors in RM, with synergistic effect being evident at low RM levels, whereas antagonism more promient at high levels of RM.

Metformin as an alternative therapeutic intervention in hemorrhagic shock

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) continues to significantly contribute to civilian and military mortality, underscoring the critical need for new resuscitation strategies. Recent discussions have emphasized the pivotal role of impaired oxygen delivery and cellular metabolism in exacerbating HS-related damage. Metformin, a well-established diabetes medication, exhibits promising potential to enhance cellular metabolism and activate pathways linked to improved oxygen uptake, thereby optimizing cellular energy management. Thus, this study aimed to assess metformin's effcacy in ameliorating outcomes in animals subjected to HS. To achieve this, Wistar rats were surgically prepared with femoral artery and vein catheters. HS was induced by controlled blood withdrawal to maintain a mean arterial pressure (MAP) within the range of 35-40 mmHg for 90 minutes. Throughout the protocol, blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were assessed. The animals were divided into two groups: Lactated Ringer's solution (LR) and LR treated with Metformin (Met). Metformin was administered in three bolus injections: at the start of resuscitation (10mg), 45 minutes into resuscitation (5mg), and 90 minutes into resuscitation (5mg). After 120 minutes, the animals were euthanized, and blood samples were collected for subsequent analysis, including metabolomic profiling of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, amino acids, and lipids. Additionally, trypsin-like enzyme activity in the plasma and markers of brain injury were evaluated. Animals treated with Met showed significantly higher systolic blood pressure after resuscitation (LR: 74±5 mmHg vs. LR+Met: 94±3 mmHg) with no significant changes in HR observed. Brain injury markers such as GFAP (Glial fibrillary acidic protein), S100B (astrocytic protein specific to the central nervous system), Tau (microtubule-associated protein), and NFL (axonal protein neurofilament light) were assessed. Animals reperfused with LR and treated with Met displayed a 22% reduction in GFAP levels compared to those reperfused with LR alone, while other markers remained unchanged. Met treatment also led to a reduction in plasmatic metabolites, including Lactate (30%), Succinate (24%), and Fumarate (22%), along with an increase in Citrate (23%) and α-ketoglutarate (24%)—all constituents of the TCA cycle. Additionally, an increase in amino acid metabolites and a decrease in lipid metabolites were observed. Recent research has suggested that HS results in elevated levels of trypsin-like enzymes in the plasma and that inhibiting these enzymes might improve outcomes during resuscitation. Our study revealed that treatment with Met reduced approximately 60% of trypsin-like enzyme activity in the plasma compared to the LR-only group. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that Met, when administered in conjunction with LR as a resuscitation solution, significantly enhances post-resuscitation BP compared to LR alone. This improved outcome may be associated with alterations in the TCA cycle and the inhibition of trypsin-like enzyme activity. However, further investigations are necessary to elucidate the precise role of these changes in the observed enhancements within this experimental model. This work was supported by National Institutes of Health grant R01HL162120. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Amplified STAT3 increases expression of the CD39 ectoenzyme and impairs function of CD8+ T cells.

Abstract Regulation of T cell signaling is paramount to mount an appropriate immune response and protect the host from pathophysiology. Here, we study the impact on CD8+ T cells in monogenic inborn error of immunity patients exhibiting dysregulated signal 3 (cytokine signaling) pathways resulting from STAT3 gain- or loss-of-function variants (STAT3 GOF and STAT3 LOF). Using high dimensional immune profiling, we demonstrate increased expression of the ectoenzyme, CD39, which hydrolyzes extracellular ATP, on STAT3 GOF patient CD8+ T cells. Moreover, CD8+ T cells from two mouse models of STAT3 GOF (STAT3+/G421R and NOD-STAT3+/K392R) recapitulated this increase in CD39. In vitro, STAT3-activating cytokines (e.g., IL-6, IL-21, IL-27, IL-10) augment CD39 induction in a TCR-dependent manner in healthy donor and in STAT3 GOF CD8+ T cells. In contrast, STAT3 LOF patients show diminished CD39 induction. We find a positive correlation between CD39 induction and phosphorylated STAT3 levels while STAT3 inhibition prevents this cytokine-driven augmentation of CD39. Finally, acutely activated, and sorted CD39+CD8+ T cells from healthy donors inhibit bystander CD8+ T cell cytokine production (e.g., IFN-g). Pharmacologic inhibition of CD39 enzymatic activity or genetic ablation via CRISPR/Cas9 editing reversed decreases in cytokine production. Together, our data demonstrate a mechanistic connection between amplified STAT3 signaling and CD39 levels which is capable of impairing CD8+ T cell function.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) activation of AhR inhibits glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity in primary human small airway epithelial cells (hSAECs)

Background: PAH represents the organic phase of particulate matter (PM) in air pollution emitted via the incomplete combustion of various compounds (i.e. diesel fuel, wood, and plastics). It is widely regarded that PAH activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) plays an important role in pro-inflammatory signaling, however the mechanisms remain unknown. In contrast- endogenous AhR agonists, such as 6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ), exert pleiotropic protective effects against inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress. The objective of our research program is to delineate the differences between activation of AhR by PAH (with adverse effects) compared to its beneficial homeostatic activation by endogenous FICZ. PM may induce oxidative stress in part through inhibition of antioxidant defense mechanisms. GSTs are a superfamily of enzymes that plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative damage (by conjugating reduced glutathione to substrates under pro-oxidizing conditions). We hypothesize that PAH activation of AhR contributes to oxidative stress via inhibition of GST activity in primary hSAECs. Methods: Primary hSAECs were subjected to varying dosages of PAH [0, 250, 500, 1000, 5000 ng/mL] to model airborne PM exposure levels, and to increasing doses of FICZ [0, 0.50, 10, 100, 1000 nM] to model normal and excessively high endogenous ligand activation of AhR. We determined the relative potencies of PAH and FICZ by measuring CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 gene expression. Oxidative stress was measured using DHE-labeling and GST activity was measured with enzymatic kits (Sigma Aldrich). AhR activity was pharmacologically inhibited using 10μM CH223191. Statistical analysis was conducted using SigmaPlot 14.0 (Systat Software). Results: PAH and FICZ maximally stimulate hSAEC CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 expression at 1000ng/mL and 100nM, respectively, and are therefore defined as equipotent concentrations used in our studies. In a representative experiment in hSAECs, PAH (1000ng/mL) significantly increased hSAEC oxidative stress vs FICZ (100nM) n=6, p<0.01), while significantly decreasing GST specific activity vs equipotent FICZ activation of AhR in primary hSAECs from a 66-year-old female without lung disease (26.6±0.874 vs 28.3±.611 nmol/mL/min); n=6 from 2 independent assays; p=0.032. Similar differential effects of PAH vs FICZ activation of AhR on GST were seen in additional experiments with male hSAECs and Calu-3 cells (male). Importantly, CH223191 inhibition of GST enzymatic activity suggests that AhR plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. Conclusions: Our studies indicate that airborne PAH exposure can have detrimental health effects on the lung via aberrant AhR signaling. Significance: Understanding activity of AhR signaling can leads to novel therapeutic options for redox disorders in the lung. Funding: VA 5I01BX001777-05 (RP) and R01HL137033 (MH). This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

The Antityrosinase Activity of Mitragyna speciosa Korth Leaf Ethanolic Extract

The kratom plant (Mitragyna speciosa Korth) is a the plant that is traditionally used to soften the skin. Kratom leaves have very strong antioxidant activity so they are predicted also to have anti-tyrosinase activity. The potential inhibition of tyrosinase enzyme activity is thought to come from the content of flavonoid compounds, polyphenols, steroids, tannins, and quinones. This research aims to determine the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of ethanol extract of M. speciosa leaves. The inhibitory activity of the tyrosinase enzyme using L-DOPA as substrate and kojic acid as positive control. Antityrosinase testing was carried out by in vitro method using UV-vis spectrophotometer through determination of IC50 value. The results of the antityrosinase activity test of ethanol extract of M. speciosa leaves showed an IC50 value of 2117.708 ppm. The ethanol extract of M. speciosa leaves is scientifically proven to have antityrosinase activity with a weak category.

Mechanistic evaluation of contrasting modulation in conformation and catalytic performance of urease by surface interaction of graphene oxide and amine- functionalized graphene oxide nanosheets

The increasing use of graphene-based nanomaterials raises concerns about their potential environmental impact as ecotoxicants. This article examines the interaction and effects of graphene oxide (GO) and its amine-derived (GONH2) 2-D nanosheets on urease dynamics, a crucial enzyme in soil nutrient cycling, through spectroscopic, microscopic, and computational analyses. The findings reveal the distinct interaction mechanisms: GO formed ground - and excited-state complexes with urease; thus, fluorescence quenching was static and dynamic via hydrophobic interaction. In contrast, GONH2 nanosheets formed a ground-state complex by static quenching involving Van der Waals and hydrogen bonding. These interactions were energetically favored and altered tryptophan (Trp) residues’ microenvironment more than tyrosine (Tyr). The average exciton lifetime of urease in the presence of GO have decreased from 4.34 ns to 3.647 ns at the mere concentration of 7.11 µM, while for GONH2, no discernable change (4.16 ns) was observed even at the concentration of 16.75 µM. Primarily, the strong interaction of GO leads to the rearrangement of polypeptide structure, reduced α-helices to 12 %, and increased β-sheets by six times. In contrast, with GONH2, α-helices were reduced to 79 %, and β-sheets were increased by 1.8 times at the similar concentration. Molecular docking revealed that neither GO nor GONH2 interacted with the active site of urease, and binding was primarily via hydrophobic, Van der Waals, and hydrogen bonding, concurrent with in-vitro incubation results. Positive total energy (3.85 kJ mol−1) during molecular docking analysis of urease-GO interaction and inhibition in enzyme activity to 62 %, altered Vmax value (0.04606 ± 0.001 mM/s), without affecting the Km (4.78045 ± 0.12 mM) suggested that inhibition was noncompetitive and steric clashes due to disruptive binding might drove the inhibition. Meanwhile, negative total internal energy (-3.97 kJ mol−1) during urease + GONH2 binding and enhanced enzymatic activity by 32 % in-vitro without altering Vmax (0.063091 ± 0.003 mM/s) and Km (4.953943 ± 0.2 mM) values suggested that urease's binding site was well-complemented by GONH2 nanosheets, serving as a redox-mediator and radical-quencher.

Discovery of N-(4-((6-(3,5- Dimethoxyphenyl)-9H-purine derivatives as irreversible covalent FGFR inhibitors

Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) is an attractive target for cancer therapy, but existing FGFR inhibitors appear to hardly meet the demand for clinical application. Herein, a number of irreversible covalent FGFR inhibitors were designed and synthesized by selecting several five- and six-membered azaheterocycles as parent scaffold with different substituents to take over the hydrophobic region in the active pocket of FGFR proteins. Among the resulting target compounds, III-30 showed the most potent effect on enzyme activity inhibition and anti-proliferative activity against the tested cancer cell lines. Significantly, III-30 could inhibit the enzyme activity by achieving irreversible covalent binding with FGFR1 and FGFR4 proteins. It could also regulate FGFR-mediated signaling pathway and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway to promote cancer cell apoptosis and inhibit cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Moreover, III-30 had a good metabolic stability and showed relatively potent anti-tumor activity in the MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumor mice model.