Level Of Potency Research Articles

Phenotypic Characterization of Subtype A and Recombinant AC Transmitted/Founder Viruses from a Rwandan HIV-1 Heterosexual Transmission Cohort

HIV-1 subtypes have distinct geographical distributions, with subtypes A, C, and D and inter-subtype recombinants circulating in sub-Saharan Africa. Historically, individuals living with subtype A viruses exhibit slower CD4 decline and progression to AIDS diagnosis. Despite this, there are few authentic infectious molecular clones (IMCs) of subtype A or AC recombinant transmitted founder (TF) viruses with which to investigate viral impacts on pathogenesis. In this study, we constructed 16 authentic subtype A1 and 4 A1C recombinant IMCs from the IAVI Rwandan Protocol C acute infection cohort and characterized these viruses phenotypically. The virus replicative capacity (RC) scores varied over 50-fold, but the natural substitution of non-consensus amino acids in the p17(MA) domain of Gag was generally linked to higher RC levels. Sensitivity to a panel of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) showed that all but one TF was sensitive to N6, which targets the CD4 binding site, while bNAbs PG16 and PGT 128 had a similar level of potency but reduced breadth against our panel of viruses. In contrast, bNAb 10E8V4 revealed high breadth but much lower potency. This panel of well-characterized, authentic subtype A and AC recombinant IMCs provides a resource for studies on the role of the virus subtype in HIV-1 transmission, pathogenesis, and vaccine design.

Synthetic and theoretical study on novel N-ylidic complexes of mercury as new antibacterial agents

The novel structure of Hg(II) complexes including the pyridinium ylide C5H5NCHC(O)C6H4-m-Br (Y) were synthesized and reported in this study. In the first step, the pyridinium salt C5H5NCH2C(O)C6H4-m-Br (S) was produced by reacting 2,3′-dibromoactophenone and pyridine. then, treatment of S with K2CO3 gave the related pyridinium ylide Y. Finally, the reaction of Y with HgX2 and Hg(NO3)2·H2O leads to the formation of novel binuclear [HgY2][HgX4] (X=Cl (1); X=Br (2); X=I (3)) and polymeric [HgY(NO3)2]n (4) complexes. The structure of complex 2 was also determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The obtained analyses proved the coordination through the ylidic carbon to metallic center. Additionally, Natural Bond Orbital (NBO), Energy Decomposition Analysis (EDA), and EDA-NOCV studies are also used to investigate the nature of metal–ligand bonding in the complexes. Finally, the antibacterial activity of 1–4 was also examined against Gram positive and negative represented significant levels of inhibitory potency respected to used standards.

Discovery of GNE-6893, a Potent, Selective, Orally Bioavailable Small Molecule Inhibitor of HPK1.

Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) serves a key immunosuppressive role as a negative regulator of T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling. HPK1 loss-of-function is associated with augmentation of immune function and has demonstrated synergy with immune checkpoint inhibitors in syngeneic mouse cancer models. These data offer compelling evidence for the use of selective small molecule inhibitors of HPK1 in cancer immunotherapy. We identified a novel series of isoquinoline HPK1 inhibitors through fragment-based screening that displayed promising levels of biochemical potency and activity in functional cell-based assays. We used structure-based drug design to introduce key selectivity elements while simultaneously addressing pharmacokinetic liabilities. These efforts culminated in a molecule demonstrating subnanomolar biochemical inhibition of HPK1 and strong in vitro augmentation of TCR signaling in primary human T-cells. Further profiling of this molecule revealed excellent kinase selectivity (347/356 kinases <50% inhibition @ 0.1 μM), a favorable in vitro safety profile, and good projected human pharmacokinetics.

Comparative analysis of kokumi tastant intensity from mechanically deboned meat across three species through in vitro calcium‐sensing receptor activity

SummaryThe emergence of kokumi sensation as a flavour enhancer prompted the search for cost effective and the sustainable production of kokumi flavour substances (KS), including small γ‐glutamyl peptides (GGP) and aromatic free amino acids (FAA). We sought to investigate the potential of mechanically deboned meat (MDM) from beef, mutton, lamb and venison for KS production through enzymatic γ‐glutamylation. Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and in vitro calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR) activity assays were utilised to identify GGPs and their kokumi intensity, respectively. The enzymatic method significantly increased GGP and FAA in all MDM samples with differences in individual peptides across the species. Notably, all four sources of MDM activated CaSR in a dose‐dependent manner, displaying varying potency and efficacy levels. Beef, lamb and mutton showed a similar range of higher potency, while venison exhibited lower potency but higher efficacy. The thermal stability of γ‐glutamylated beef samples, used as an exemplar, was confirmed at temperatures of 80 °C, 120 °C and 150 °C. Given these findings, MDM represents a promising substrate for KS production and warrants further investigation to assess its practical applicability for enhancing kokumi flavour in the food industry.

Potency and Target Surface Interaction of Diazinoyl Nicotinic Insecticides.

Structure-activity relationships of diazinoyl nicotinic insecticides (diazinoyl isomers and 5- or 6-substituted pyrazin-2-oyl analogues) are considered in terms of affinity to the insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) and insecticidal activity against the imidacloprid-resistant brown planthopper. Among the test compounds, 3-(6-chloropyridin-3-ylmethyl)-2-(pyrazinoyl)iminothiazoline shows the highest potency in nAChR affinity and insecticidal activity. Aplysia californica acetylcholine binding protein (AChBP) mutants (Y55W + Q57R and Y55W + Q57T) are utilized to compare molecular recognition of nicotinic insecticides with diverse pharmacophores. N-nitro- or N-cyanoimine imidacloprid or acetamiprid, respectively, exhibits a high affinity to these AChBP mutants at a similar potency level. Intriguingly, the pyrazin-2-oyl analogue has a higher affinity to AChBP Y55W + Q57R than that to Y55W + Q57T, thereby indicating that pyrazine nitrogen atoms contact Arg57 guanidinium and Trp55 indole NH. Furthermore, nicotine prefers AChBP Y55W + Q57T over Y55W + Q57R, conceivably suggesting that the protonated nicotine is repulsed by Arg57 guanidinium, consistent with its inferior potency to insect nAChR.

Relationship between prediction accuracy and uncertainty in compound potency prediction using deep neural networks and control models

The assessment of prediction variance or uncertainty contributes to the evaluation of machine learning models. In molecular machine learning, uncertainty quantification is an evolving area of research where currently no standard approaches or general guidelines are available. We have carried out a detailed analysis of deep neural network variants and simple control models for compound potency prediction to study relationships between prediction accuracy and uncertainty. For comparably accurate predictions obtained with models of different complexity, highly variable prediction uncertainties were detected using different metrics. Furthermore, a strong dependence of prediction characteristics and uncertainties on potency levels of test compounds was observed, often leading to over- or under-confident model decisions with respect to the expected variance of predictions. Moreover, neural network models responded very differently to training set modifications. Taken together, our findings indicate that there is only little, if any correlation between compound potency prediction accuracy and uncertainty, especially for deep neural network models, when predictions are assessed on the basis of currently used metrics for uncertainty quantification.

Conducting 2D and 3D QSAR Analyses and Molecular Docking Studies of Analogues of 2-(1-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)piperidin-4-yl)ethan-1-ol with the Aim of Identifying Promising Drug Candidates for Targeting Glioblastoma

Background: 2-(1-(1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)piperidin-4-yl) ethan-1-ol analogues represent novel glutaminase 1 inhibitors. Their exemplary antineoplastic efficacy underscores their prospective utility in glioblastoma chemotherapy. Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate 2D and 3D-QSAR models that authenticate the antineoplastic efficacy of ethan-1-ol analogues and delineate optimal structural configurations conducive to new pharmaceutical design. Methods: The Heuristic Method (HM) was employed for the development of a 2D-linear QSAR paradigm, whilst the Gene Expression Programming (GEP) algorithm was employed for a 2D-nonlinear QSAR paradigm. Concurrently, the CoMSIA methodology was deployed to scrutinize the nexus between pharmaceutical structure and potency. An ensemble of 200 nascent anti-glioma ethan-1-ol compounds was conceptualized, and their potency levels were prognosticated via chemical descriptors and molecular field delineations. Pharmaceuticals epitomizing peak potency were earmarked for molecular docking validation. Results: The empirical modeling exhibited pronounced superiority with the 3D paradigm, succeeded by the GEP nonlinear paradigm and culminated with the HM linear model. The 3D paradigm was characterized by a robust Q2 (0.533), R2 (0.921), and F-values (132.338) complemented by a minimal SEE (0.110). The molecular descriptor MNO coupled with the hydrogen bond donor field facilitated novel pharmaceutical conceptualizations, leading to the identification of the quintessential active molecule, 24J.138, lauded for its superlative antineoplastic attributes and docking proficiency. Conclusion: The orchestration of bidimensional and tridimensional paradigms, synergized by innovative amalgamation of contour maps and molecular descriptors, provides novel insights and methodologies for the synthesis of glioblastoma chemotherapeutic agents.

Insignoic acids A – E, unusual α, β-unsaturated keto fatty acids isolated from the exocarp of Australian rainforest tree Endiandra insignis (Lauraceae)

Anti-inflammatory bioassay-guided compound isolation from the exocarp of the Australian rainforest tree Endiandra insignis (family Lauraceae) has led to the discovery and structural elucidation of unusual α, β-unsaturated twenty-four carbon fatty acids and their positional isomers, insignoic acids A – E (1a – 5c). The stereochemistry and position of the double bond within the aliphatic chain were independently determined via NMR spectroscopy and Ozone-Induced Dissociation (OzID) Mass Spectrometry, respectively. Compounds (1a – 5c) displayed good to moderate anti-inflammatory activity in the range of 8–84 μM. The low therapeutic index observed when assessing the cell viability in the RAW macrophage cell lines, prompted us to investigate the anticancer potential of these unusual fatty acids. The anti-cancer activity was assessed in A-431 carinoma cell lines and MM649 melanoma cell lines. Insignoic acid C (3a-f) exhibited the highest level of potency with an IC50 value of 5–7 μM against both the cell lines. The insignoic acids are the first of their kind known for incorporating an alpha-beta unsaturated system flanked next to a keto group with an additional level of oxygenation at C-6 in a 24‑carbon fatty acid backbone.

Synthesis, characterization, biological applications of novel coumarine azo-dye ligand and its transition metal complexes: Simultaneous electrochemical detection of paracetamol and uric acid

Coumarin is a well-known pharmacophore and structure with wide-ranging applications. It is a member of the heterocyclic family. Furthermore, metal complexes can improve the drug action and efficacy of organic therapeutic agents. Various physical and spectroscopic procedures are used to synthesize and characterize the novel azo dye ligand (HDM) and its transition metal complexes for their geometrical composition. The well diffusion method and DPPH technique were used to measure the antimicrobial potency and antioxidant levels, respectively. MTT analysis was performed to assess anticancer activity for Hela and P53 cell lines. CV and DPV were used to confirm the electro catalytic ability of [Co(HDM)2(H2O)2]/GCE (modified electrode) towards various concentrations of paracetamol and uric acid. The modified electrode performed well as a sensor with paracetamol and uric acid concentration of CV 10 to 80 µmol/L and 10 to 100 µmol/L; DPV 5 to 20 µmol/L and 5 to 20 µmol/L respectively and LOD values CV 3.333, 3.333 µmol/L; DPV 1.666, 1.666 µmol/L. This electrode has a sensitivity of CV 0.02287; DPV 0.0137 µAµM−1 for paracetamol and CV 7.558; DPV 0.01674 µAµM−1 for uric acid. The results showed that, when compared to bare glassy carbon electrode, the modified electrode had a good electro catalytic activities, high selectivity and sensitivity to the redox reaction of paracetamol and uric acid.

Vaccine Molecule Design Based on Phage Display and Computational Modeling against Rhabdovirus.

Rhabdoviruses with rich species lead a variety of high lethality and rapid transmission diseases to plants and animals around the globe. Vaccination is one of the most effective approaches to prevent and control virus disease. However, the key antigenic epitopes of glycoprotein being used for vaccine development are unclear. In this study, fish-derived Abs are employed for a Micropterus salmoides rhabdovirus (MSRV) vaccine design by phage display and bioinformatics analysis. We constructed an anti-MSRV phage Ab library to screen Abs for glycoprotein segment 2 (G2) (G129-266). Four M13-phage-displayed Abs (Ab-5, Ab-7, Ab-8 and Ab-30) exhibited strong specificity to target Ag, and Ab-7 had the highest affinity with MSRV. Ab-7 (300 μg/ml) significantly increased grass carp ovary cell viability to 83.40% and significantly decreased the titer of MSRV. Molecular docking results showed that the key region of Ag-Ab interaction was located in 10ESQEFTTLTSH20 of G2. G2Ser11 and G2Gln12 were replaced with alanine, respectively, and molecular docking results showed that the Ag-Ab was nonbinding (ΔG > 0). Then, the peptide vaccine KLH-G210-20 was immunized to M. salmoides via i.p. injection. ELISA result showed that the serum Ab potency level increased significantly (p < 0.01). More importantly, the challenge test demonstrated that the peptide vaccine elicited robust protection against MSRV invasion, and the relative percentage survival reached 62.07%. Overall, this study proposed an approach for screening key epitope by combining phage display technology and bioinformatics tools to provide a reliable theoretical reference for the prevention and control of viral diseases.

Generation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from the affected femoral heads of dogs with Legg Calvé Perthes disease

Background: Canine Legg Calvé Perthes disease (LCPD) occurs during the growth period, and the cause of ischemic necrosis of the femoral head during growth remains unclear. If LCPD-affected femoral head-derived mesenchymal stem cells (LCPD-MSCs) can be generated, they can be used as a new tool for the pathophysiological analysis of canine LCPD. Aim: To generate affected femoral head-derived MSCs from dogs with LCPD and investigate the mRNA expression levels of angiogenesis-related factors and osteogenic differentiation potency of LCPD-MSCs. Methods: This study was performed using affected femoral heads from dogs diagnosed with LCPD and underwent femoral head and neck ostectomy. The necrotic tissue was harvested from the LCPD-affected femoral head and cultured statically (LCPD group, n=6). Canine bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) were used as controls (control group, n=6). First, the morphology of the cultured cells was observed, and the expression of CD29, CD34, CD44, CD45, CD90, and major histocompatibility complex class II was analyzed using flow cytometry. Additionally, the trilineage differentiation potency of the LCPD-affected head-derived adherent cells was examined. Furthermore, the expression levels of HIF1A, VEGFA, VEGFB, and PDGFB mRNAs and the bone differentiation potency of LCPD-affected head-derived adherent cells were investigated. Results: LCPD-affected femoral head-derived adherent cells showed a fibroblast-like morphology, and the expression of cell surface antigens was similar to that of BM-MSCs. In addition, LCPD-affected femoral head-derived adherent cells showed the same trilineage differentiation potency as BM-MSCs and were consistent with MSC characteristics. Furthermore, the mRNA expression levels of angiogenesis-related factors could be objectively measured in LCPD-MSCs and those MSCs had bone differentiation potency. Conclusion: In the present study, canine LCPD-MSCs were successfully generated, suggesting their usefulness as a tool for pathological analysis of LCPD in dogs.

An assessment of a GMP schistosomiasis vaccine (SchistoShield®).

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that puts over 200 million people at risk, and prevention options are sparse with no approved vaccine. Our vaccine candidate, SchistoShield®, is based on an approximately 87 kDa large subunit of calcium activated neutral protease - termed Sm-p80 - combined with a potent TLR4 agonist-based adjuvant. SchistoShield® has been shown to prevent disease throughout the parasitic life cycle - including egg, juvenile, and adult worm stages - in numerous animal models up to and including baboons. SchistoShield® has been shown safe in both preclinical toxicology studies in rabbits and in a Phase 1 clinical trial in the USA. A Phase 1b trial was initiated in 2023 in endemic regions of Africa, and to date no serious safety signals have been reported. In preparation for large-scale Phase 2 clinical trials and eventual vaccine deployment, the Sm-p80 antigen production process has been transferred to a manufacturing organization, Quratis Corporation in South Korea, which specializes in preparation of vaccines for large-scale European and African trials. The process of scaling from our current production level of ~2000 vaccine doses, to a process that will generate more than 100 million doses has required multiple improvement steps in the process including fermentation, downstream purification of the protein antigen, lyophilization, and fill and finish. In this study, we detail the large-scale production process of the SchistoShield® protein product by Quratis. In addition, an effort was made to analyze and compare the Quratis-made lot of Sm-p80, referred to as QTP-105, to the cGMP lot of Sm-p80 which is in use in human trials in the USA and Africa, referred to as Sm-p80 DP (made in USA). We show that QTP-105 demonstrates excellent potency, purity, identity, and endotoxin levels compared to our Phase 1 Sm-p80 DP and is suitable for use in Phase 2 studies and beyond.

Uniform block copolymer nanofibers for the delivery of paclitaxel in 2D and 3D glioblastoma tumor models.

Cancer treatment has transformed in recent years, with the introduction of immunotherapy providing substantial improvements in prognoses for certain cancers. However, traditional small molecule chemotherapeutics remain the major frontline of defence, and improving their delivery to solid tumors is of utmost importance for improving potency and reducing side effects. Here, length-controlled one-dimensional seed nanofibers (ca. 25 nm, ĐL = 1.05) were generated from poly(fluorenetrimethylenecarbonate)-block-poly(dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate) via living crystallization-driven self-assembly. Paclitaxel, with an encapsulation content ranging from 1 to 100 wt%, was loaded onto the preformed nanoparticles by solvent addition and evaporation. Drug loading was quantified by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Drug-loaded vectors were then incubated with U87 MG glioblastoma cells in a 2D cell assay for up to 72 h, and their anticancer properties were determined. It was observed that seed nanofibers loaded with 20 wt% paclitaxel were the most advantageous combination (IC50 = 0.48 μg mL-1), while pure seed nanofibers with no loaded drug displayed much lower cytotoxicity (IC50 = 11.52 μg mL-1). The IC50 of the loaded seed nanofibers rivaled that of the commercially approved Abraxane® (IC50 = 0.46 μg mL-1). 3D tumor spheroids were then cultured and subjected to the same stresses. Live/dead cell staining revealed that once more, seed nanofibers with 20 wt% paclitaxel, Abraxane®, and paclitaxel all exhibited similar levels of potency (55% viability), whereas control samples exhibited much higher cell viability (70%) after 3 days. These results demonstrate that nanofibers contain great potential as biocompatible drug delivery vehicles for cancer treatment as they exert a similar anticancer effect to the commercially available Abraxane®.

Evaluation of Anti-nociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Markhamia tomentosa Cream Co-Formulated with Eucalyptus Oil

Background: Pain is a noxious, sensory, and emotional experience due to intense stimuli. Pain is intimately linked with nociception. The clinical therapies available at the moment for pain are tricyclic antidepressants, non -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and opioids. There is a need to develop and investigate safer alternatives that minimise the chances of psychological or physical drug dependence and drug dose tolerance. The purpose of this research is to develop an anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive formulation (Markhamia tomentosa cream co-formulated with Eucalyptus oil as a permeation enhancer) and evaluate its efficacy. Methods: In this study, Markhamia tomentosa was extracted from its leaves using maceration technique. A qualitative screening of the Markhamia tomentosa ethanolic extract (EEMT) was carried out. Five emulsions (A1-A5) containing varying compositions of Markhamia tomentosa were developed, and a negative control (an emulsion that did not contain Markhamia tomentosa or Eucalyptus oil) was also developed using fusion method. The anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive properties of the topical creams were evaluated using mice paw-licking and xylene-induced ear oedema tests. Diclofenac and aspirin administered at 20 mg/kg and 50mg/kg orally, respectively, were used as standards. All experiments were carried out in triplicates. Results: The phytochemical investigation of the Markhamia tomentosa extract showed a marked presence of key phyto-constituents such as saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. A1 and A2 had significantly higher percentage of nociception inhibition at phase I—neurogenic and phase II—inflammatory stages compared to Diclofenac 20 mg/kg. A1 and A3 had anti-inflammatory properties more potent than Aspirin 50mg/kg. In both tests, the negative controls did not show any level of potency. All results in this investigation were expressed as mean ± S.D (n=3) and (p&lt;0.05) for all data sets. Formulation A1 had the highest concentration of EEMT. No rash, erythema, or oedema was observed in the Draize test implying that the formulations are safe for topical application. Conclusion: Markhamia tomentosa and eucalyptus oil cream showed potent anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity. Markhamia tomentosa cream co-formulated with Eucalyptus oil as a permeation enhancer can be used effectively as a non-opioid, anti-nociceptive, and anti-inflammatory cream topically for pain and its symptoms

Discovery of a Novel Benzodiazepine Series of Cbl-b Inhibitors for the Enhancement of Antitumor Immunity.

Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene-b (Cbl-b) is a RING finger E3 ligase that is responsible for repressing T-cell, natural killer (NK) cell, and B-cell activation. The robust antitumor activity observed in Cbl-b deficient mice arising from elevated T-cell and NK-cell activity justified our discovery effort toward Cbl-b inhibitors that might show therapeutic promise in immuno-oncology, where activation of the immune system can drive the recognition and killing of cancer cells. We undertook a high-throughput screening campaign followed by structure-enabled optimization to develop a novel benzodiazepine series of potent Cbl-b inhibitors. This series displayed nanomolar levels of biochemical potency, as well as potent T-cell activation. The functional activity of this class of Cbl-b inhibitors was further corroborated with ubiquitin-based cellular assays.

Do people with eczema and their carers understand topical steroid potency? Results of two surveys.

Topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are classified into four potencies: mild, moderate, potent and very potent. Confusion arises from the wide range of products available, none of which have the potency level printed on the tubes or packaging. An online survey of patients and carers of people with eczema showed that only 17% of 984 respondents knew how many potencies there are. In a second survey, 315 respondents provided 1520 assignments of the potency of commonly used TCSs: 55.5% were correct, 21% were underestimates and 23.5% overestimates. Some errors were extreme: 12 (8%) of those using a very potent TCS considered it mild while 9 (27%) using a mild TCS considered it potent or very potent. Other themes expressed in free-text comments included inadequate and conflicting advice about using TCSs and lack of warnings about long-term adverse effects, particularly topical steroid withdrawal. Ninety-five per cent of respondents wanted TCSs to be clearly labelled with potency.

Cu(I)–N-heterocyclic carbene complexes bearing a naphthyl substituent: synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial activities

A series of 1-(alkyl)-3-(1-naphthyl)imidazolinium bromides (2a–d) as N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) precursors were synthesized from 3-(1-naphthyl)-1H-imidazolinium chloride (1). By reacting these NHC precursors with fresh CuCl, Cu(I)–NHC complexes (3a–d) were synthesized. The structures of the compounds were elucidated using 1H, 13C-NMR, FT-IR, ESI-MS, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis, and elemental analysis techniques. The thermal properties of selected complexes were determined. Salts (1, 2a–d) and Cu(I)–NHC complexes (3a–d) were investigated against test microorganisms to determine their antimicrobial potency. The imidazolinium salts 2b and 2d displayed remarkable antibacterial efficacy, particularly against gram-positive bacteria; however, the corresponding Cu(I)–NHC derivatives (3a–d) did not exhibit a similar level of potency probably due to limited solubility. Overall, it can be concluded that incorporation of N-substituent species with O-heteroatoms, instead of benzyl, allyl, or hexyl groups on NHC, can enhance the activity against microbial derivatives.

Design and Fabrication of Solar-Powered Portable Thermoelectric Refrigeration System for Thermolabile Pharmaceuticals

Abstract: In order to maintain the therapeutic efficacy of thermolabile medicine and vaccines, electrical energy must be continuously supplied. For remote areas lacking access to electrical electricity, this poses a serious dilemma. The potency level of thermolabile medications and vaccines is decreased, particularly during last-mile delivery, which causes significant financial loss. In this study, we designed and developed a portable active refrigeration system that runs on solar photovoltaic cells for the refrigeration of thermolabile pharmaceuticals to be utilized in rural areas without access to electricity, especially to facilitate last-mile vaccination delivery. The system makes use of a thermoelectric refrigeration system that, when given electrical power, causes a temperature difference based on the Peltier effect. It will be demonstrated that a solar panel with a peak power of roughly 50W and batteries with a storage capacity of 10Ah are needed for a typical application for vaccine refrigeration. The developed refrigeration system has a 3-liter volume capacity and can store 150 vaccine ampules, each with a 10ml capacity, at temperatures between 2°C to 8°C using a Peltier cell (TEC), that consumes 66 W at 12V

Potency levels of regulated cannabis products in Michigan 2021-2022.

Evaluation of cannabinoid concentrations in products from the legal cannabis market has been fraught with uncertainty. The lack of standardized testing methodology and the susceptibility of cannabinoids to degradation under certain storage conditions complicates the efforts to assess total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels across wide geographic areas. There are few peer-reviewed surveys of cannabinoid concentrations in regulated products. Those that have been done have not characterized the effects of differences in analytical methodology, sample population, and storage conditions. Viridis Laboratories, which operates two cannabis safety compliance facilities in Michigan, has analyzed over 34,000 cannabis products throughout 2021 and 2022 before the sale in the regulated market. Fifteen cannabinoids in cannabis flower, concentrates, and infused products were tested using methanolic extraction and analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection. Methods were validated before use, and the flower analysis procedure was certified by the Association of Analytical Collaboration. All the samples were tested before submission for sale and therefore had not undergone prolonged storage. The results are compared with those seen in other states as well as in the illicit market. Total THC levels in cannabis flower from the regulated market are significantly higher than those seen in illicit products. The distribution of cannabinoid levels is similar in flowers intended for either the medicinal or adult-use markets, with an average potency of 18%-23% of total THC. Total THC in concentrates averages up to 82%. Other cannabinoids are observed at significant levels, mostly in products specifically formulated to contain them. These results may act as a benchmark for potency levels in the regulated market.

Platinum-Acridine Agents with High Activity in Cancers Expressing the Solute Carrier MATE1 (SLC47A1).

Platinum-acridine anticancer agents (PAs) containing acyclic (1 and 3) and heterocyclic (R)-3-aminopiperidine (2) and 2-iminopyrrolidine (4) based linker moieties were studied. Similar to 1, rigidified 2 shows a strong positive correlation between potency and SLC47A1 (multidrug and toxin extrusion protein 1, MATE1) gene expression levels across the NCI-60 panel of cancer cell lines. All derivatives show nanomolar activity in HepG2 (liver), NCI-H460 (lung), and MDA-MB-436 (breast), which express high levels of SLC47A1 (Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia, CCLE). The PAs are up to 350-fold more potent than cisplatin. In a MATE1 inhibition assay, a significant reduction in activity is observed in the three cancer cell lines (4000-fold lower for HepG2). Molecular docking experiments provide insight into the compatibility of the structurally diverse set of PAs with MATE1-mediated transport. MATE1 is a predictive marker and actionable target that sensitizes cancer cells regardless of the tissue of origin to PAs.