Pharmacokinetic Characteristics Research Articles

Unveiling the Anti-convulsant Potential of Novel Series of 1,2,4-Triazine- 6H-Indolo[2,3-b]quinoline Derivatives: In Silico Molecular Docking, ADMET, DFT, and Molecular Dynamics Exploration.

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder caused by irregular electrical activity in the brain. To manage this disorder effectively, it is imperative to identify potential pharmacological targets and to understand the pathophysiology of epilepsy in depth. This research aimed to identify promising leads from a library of 1,2,4-triazine-6Hindolo[ 2,3-b]quinoline derivatives and optimize them using in silico and dynamic processes. We used computational studies to examine 1,2,4-Triazine-6H-indolo[2,3-b]quinoline derivatives. Some methods were used to strengthen the stability of binding sites, including Docking, ADMET, IFD, MMGBSA, Density Functional Theory (DFT), and Molecular Dynamics. HRSN24 and HRSN34 exhibited promising pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics compared to standard drugs (Carbamazepine and Phenytoin) and a co-crystal ligand (Diazepam). Both HRSN24 and HRSN34 presented notable Glide Xp docking scores (-4.528 and -4.633 Kcal/mol), IFD scores (-702.22 and -700.3 Kcal/mol), and MMGBSA scores (-45.71 and -14.46 Kcal/mol). HRSN24 was selected for molecular dynamics and DFT analysis. During MD, HRSN24 identified LYS21, GLY22, ASP24, ARG26, VAL53, MET55, and SER308 as the most important amino acid residues for hydrophobic interactions. A DFT computation was performed to determine the physicochemical properties of HRSN24, revealing a total energy of -1362.28 atomic units, a HOMO value of -0.20186, and a LUMO value of -0.01915. Based on computational modelling techniques, an array of 1,2,4-triazine-6H-indolo [2,3-b]quinoline derivatives were evaluated for their anti-convulsant properties. A stable compound within the GABAA receptor was identified by HRSN24, suggesting its affinity as an anti-convulsant.

Molecular Docking, Pharmacophore Mapping, and Virtual Screening of Novel Glucokinase Activators as Antidiabetic Agents

Background: A pivotal impetus has led to the development of numerous small molecules to develop therapeutic strategies for type 2 diabetes. Novel heterocyclic derivatives are now available with expansive pharmacological activity designed specifically to activate Glucokinase (GK) in the body. This target is of particular significance in antidiabetic drug design since it is a newly validated target. Individuals with type 2 diabetes are unable to maintain blood glucose homeostasis due to impaired glucokinase function. The novel approach to managing type 2 diabetes relies on utilizing heterocyclic derivatives to activate the GK enzyme, also known as a metabolic enzyme. Objective: In this research endeavor, the primary objective was to improve drug delivery while minimizing adverse effects by using molecules that activate glucokinase. Methods: There are 53,000 compounds included in Maybridge's online repository, which has been subjected to rigorous scrutiny. Eight two compounds that encompass the specific oxadiazole core were selectively extracted from this extensive collection. ChemBioDraw Ultra was used for structural drawing, and AutoDock Vina 1.5.6 was used to perform docking analysis. For the online prediction of log P, the SwissADME algorithm was employed. A PKCSM software program was used to predict toxicity for leading compounds. Results: Among all of the compounds, AD80 and AD27 displayed the highest affinity for GK receptors. These compounds, by adhering to Lipinski’s Rule of Five, exhibited good absorption and excretion profiles through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Lipinski’s Rule of Five refers to physicochemical properties that favor good oral bioavailability, and these specifications are zero to five hydrogen bond donors, zero to ten hydrogen bond acceptors, molecular weight below 500, and log P no more than five. These criteria ensure that the compounds of the invention have acceptable solubility and permeability, which are vital prerequisites when given orally, to be absorbed via the gastrointestinal wall, metabolized, and found in the urine. Therefore, the chance of drug candidates exhibiting favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics is increased, enhancing their chances of being developed for oral administration. In comparison with standard drugs Dorzagliatin as a glucokinase activator (GKA) and MRK (co-crystallized ligand), these compounds exhibit no skin sensitization, AMES toxicity, or hepatotoxicity. Conclusion: The recently designed lead molecules exhibit an improved pharmacokinetic profile, enhanced binding affinity, and minimal toxicity based on the computational study, potentially making them suitable candidates for further optimization as glucokinase activators.

Phase I clinical study of a multi-kinase inhibitor TG02 capsule for the treatment of recurrent high-grade gliomas with failed temozolomide treatment in Chinese patients

Introduction: Here, we report the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic characteristics and preliminary efficacy of a multi-kinase inhibitor (TG02 capsule) as a new therapy for patients with recurrent high-grade gliomas in China. Methods: This is a single-center, dose-escalation, open-label phase I study, which enrolled patients with recurrent high-grade gliomas who failed to temozolomide. Patients were assigned sequentially into different dose groups and received TG02 every 4 weeks. The dose was increased in a traditional 3+3 design. Primary endpoints were the dose-limited toxicity (DLT) and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Results: Twelve patients (8 glioblastomas, 4 diffuse astrocytoma) were enrolled between May 2019 and November 2021. Three patients received 100 mg and 9 received 150 mg TG02 twice a week. The plasma concentration of TG02 reached the maximum at 2 hours after administration, and the elimination half-life was about 7 hours. No DLT occurred and MTD was not defined in this study. Eleven patients had one or more investigator-assessed treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs). The most frequent TRAEs were vomiting (91.7%) and diarrhea (75.0%), and 50% of the patients had grade 3 or 4 adverse events. There were no treatment-related deaths. The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 1.77 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.82-4.24) and 9.63 (95%CI: 2.66-not estimated) months, respectively. Conclusions: TG02 capsule 150mg twice a week is safe and tolerable in Chinese patients with recurrent high-grade gliomas. Patients who failed to temozolomide showed obvious tumor reduction when switching to TG02 capsule. The efficacy for recurrent gliomas warrant further investigation.

SHR-1806, a robust OX40 agonist to promote T cell-mediated antitumor immunity

ABSTRACT Anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies have significantly revolutionized cancer immunotherapy. However, the persistent challenge of low patient response rates necessitates novel approaches to overcome immune tolerance. Targeting immunostimulatory signaling may have a better chance of success for its ability to enhance effector T cell (Teff) function and expansion for antitumor immunity. Among various immunostimulatory pathways, the evidence underscores the potential of activating OX40-OX40L signaling to enhance CD8+ T cell generation and maintenance while suppressing regulatory T cells (Tregs) within the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we introduce a potent agonistic anti-OX40 antibody, SHR-1806, designed to target OX40 receptors on activated T cells and amplify antitumor immune responses. SHR-1806 demonstrates a high affinity and specificity for human OX40 protein, eliciting FcγR-mediated agonistic effects, T cell activation, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) activities in vitro. In human OX40 knock-in mice bearing MC38 tumor, SHR-1806 shows a trend toward a higher potency than the reference anti-OX40 antibody produced in-house, GPX4, an analog of pogalizumab, the most advanced drug candidate developed by Roche. Furthermore, SHR-1806 displays promising anti-tumor activity alone or in combination with toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonist or PD-L1 inhibitor in mouse models. Evaluation of SHR-1806 in rhesus monkeys indicates a favorable safety profile and typical pharmacokinetic characteristics. Thus, SHR-1806 emerges as a robust OX40 agonist with promising therapeutic potential.

Investigation of paeonol in dermatological diseases: an animal study review

Cortex Moutan is the root bark of the buttercup plant Paeonia suffruticosa Andr, of Ranunculaceae family. It has been utilized in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat a multitude of diseases, and traditional Chinese documents allege that it has heat-clearing, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and detoxicating properties. Paeonol is a bioactive substance extracted from Cortex Moutan, which is considered to be one of its most effective metabolites. Recent studies have illustrated that paeonol treatment can alleviate skin damage, relieve the inflammatory response in patients with numerous dermatological conditions, and inhibit anomalous proliferation of skin tissue. Accordingly, paeonol may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for a variety of skin conditions. This review summarizes the physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetics (PK) characteristics of paeonol, and mechanisms of operation in diverse skin diseases, including dermatitis, psoriasis, pruritus, photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and hyperplasticscar. Additionally, much of the evidence is based on animal experiments. Furthermore, it explores the prospects of enhancing paeonol’s efficacy through extraction, synthesis, and formulation innovations, as well as strategies to overcome its limitations in dermatological therapy. This review aims to provide a more reliable theoretical basis for the clinical application of paeonol.

Prevalence of Potential Drug-drug Interactions among Psychiatric Patients at Psychiatry Hospital in Sulaimani City

Background: Clinically significant drug-drug interactions can be defined as events in which the pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetic characteristics of a drug are modified by coadministration of a second drug to the patient’s medication protocol, which can often lead to in an increase of serious adverse reactions. The probability of interactions increases with higher number of drugs administered. Objective: The objective of this prospective study was to determine the prevalence of potential psychotropic drug-drug interactions among hospitalized patients at Psychiatry hospital in Sulaimani city, and to identify the clinical consequence of such combinations. Method: The current study was involved recruiting the data regarding prescribed psychotropic drugs of 60 newly hospitalized psychiatric patients. Data collection on each individual patient was performed on the specific patient dossier of to report any potential psychotropic drug-drug interactions utilizing Medscape drug interaction checker for identification of the different types of drug-drug interactions. Result: The prevalence of potential drug-drug interaction at Psychiatry Unit in Sulaimani city in 60 patients was 98%, of which 16.6% were major drug-drug interactions. The most frequently prescribed medications were antidepressant drugs, most of patients received more than four drugs. Conclusion: From the current study one can conclude that there was a high prevalence of potential drug-drug interactions among psychiatric patients, which was more frequent in patients taking more than one psychotropic medication.

The Metabolic Characteristics and Bioavailability of Resveratrol Based on Metabolic Enzymes.

The natural polyphenol resveratrol (RV) has garnered fame for its extensive pharmacological properties. Although clinical studies have shown some positive results, many contradictory outcomes remain. An important obstacle to the development of therapeutic applications for RV is its low bioavailability in vivo. This may be partially attributed to biotransformation mediated by phase I and II enzymes, such as cytochrome P450s, UDP-glucuronosyltransferases, and sulfotransferases. To date, more than 20 different types of metabolites have been detected after catalysis by these enzymes. Notably, RV and some of its metabolites serve as substrates for these enzymes. Conversely, RV can directly regulate the expression or activity of these enzymes. Given the increasing number of studies investigating the bioactivity of RV, this review summarizes its physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics and describes the metabolism of RV and the bioactivities of its metabolites, with emphasis on the interaction between RV and its related metabolic enzymes. In addition to hepatic metabolism, the crucial roles of RV metabolism in multiple other tissues and organs cannot be overlooked, and they reveal the relationship between RV metabolism and its biological potential.

Scaffold transforming and in-silico design of potential androgen receptor antagonists in prostate cancer therapy.

Androgens like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone are essential for the growth and development of the prostate gland. Androgenic receptors are overexpressed, which promotes the progression of prostate cancer; therefore, androgenic receptors are a key target in the therapy of prostate cancer. Enzalutamide is used to treat prostate cancer; however, it also causes toxicities such as cardiovascular toxicity, acute myocarditis, hypertension, and seizures. The objective of this research was to create novel and safer analogues of enzalutamide, followed by the prediction of the pharmacokinetic and toxicity characteristics of these enzalutamide analogues. Molecular docking studies of analogues were also done to guess how ligands will work biologically in treating prostate cancer. A total of 195 analogues were generated, and among them, 23 bioisosteres were selected for further pharmacokinetic, toxicological screening and docking studies. The predicted physical-chemical, medicinal, and ADMET characteristics of the designed bioisosteres were optimal to good compared to enzalutamide. Additionally, the drug likeness and drug score of analogues were superior to enzalutamide. According to docking studies of analogues, EZ12, EZ8, and EZ10 formed hydrogen bonds of SER778 with replaceable amide groups in enzalutamide molecules. SER778 residue may be responsible for antagonistic activity towards androgen receptors. Based on the results of the ADMET, drug likeness, drug score, and docking study of designed enzalutamide analogues, the ligands EZ12, EZ8, and EZ10 could be used to find more possible antiandrogen drugs that could be used to treat prostate cancer.

A meta-analytical approach for estimating methane suppression from dietary additives in ruminants

IntroductionMethane production inhibitors included in feed additives are increasingly used to suppress methane production in the rumen. Most products interact with the rumen microbiome and/or component biochemical pathways that scavenge free hydrogen ions (H+) to make methane (CH4 ). The capacity of these agents to inhibit rumen methane production is determined by the ability of the chemical to block methane production pathways, the amount of agent delivered to the rumen (i.e. the dose) and the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (i.e. the pharmacokinetic) characteristics of the chemical that contribute to removal from the site of action (the rumen). The intrinsic inhibitory capacity of an agent determines the maximum rate of methane suppression. This maximal rate may reduce according to pharmacokinetic effects arising from dose rate and frequency. Most studies of additive methane reduction efficacy use total mixed ration (TMR; with the additive included into the ration) feeding systems and estimate methane reduction (absolute or relative) across a 24-hour period. Few studies report critical pharmacokinetic parameters, making it difficult to extrapolate findings into non-TMR systems (such as grazing) where differing doses and dose frequencies apply.MethodsWe consider the likely behaviour of a rumen-acting oral additive to reduce methane production applying basic pharmacokinetic principles to propose an analytical approach to data from multiple field studies employing different dose rates and dose frequencies to estimate methane suppression responses. This is based upon a logistic transformation of relative efficacy (percentage reduction in methane comparing treatment with control groups) as the dependent variable and includes total dose, dose frequency, quadratic and interaction terms between total dose and dose frequency as independent variables that potentially capture any pharmacokinetic effects on performance. The model was tested using simulation and verified against real data (cattle 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) methane-reduction studies).ResultsGood fit between predicted and observed methane suppression was obtained.DiscussionWe propose use of the general form of this logistic model with dose and dose frequency components included that address basic pharmacological impacts on methane suppression as the standard approach to meta-analysis.

Unlocking Neuraminidase Inhibitors: Insights from Natural Products through Pharmacophore Modeling, Virtual Screening, and Molecular Docking

Background: Neuraminidase enzyme plays a major role in the life cycle of influenza viruses. Targeting neuraminidases is a key strategy in preventing and treating influenza A and B spread by inhibiting the release of new viral particles from infected cells. Developing new neuraminidase inhibitors with enhanced efficacy and reduced risk of resistance is the ultimate of ongoing research. Objective: In this study, we tried to shed light on molecules of natural origin that inhibit neuraminidase enzyme by utilizing different aspects of in silico studies. Methods: The work started by generating structure-based pharmacophore, later used for the virtual screening of electronic libraries constructed from chemical and natural compounds. Hits raised from virtual screening were subjected to molecular docking to assess and explain different modes of interactions with the neuraminidase enzyme. Drug likeness and ADME filters were applied to choose compounds that may be taken effectively by oral route with good gastrointestinal absorption and acceptable pharmacokinetics with respect to Lipinski and Ghose rules. The hits were also inspected for toxicity risks, including mutagenic, tumorigenic, irritant, and reproductive effects. Results: 7 features of the generated pharmacophore from the potent inhibitor Oselatamiver were the base for virtual screening. The results obtained by database screening highlighted 4 natural compounds listed in the COCONUT library (CNP 0125691 (Penicitrinol K), CNP0256196 (Frenolicin D), CNP 0138184, and CNP 0206296) as potential neuraminidase inhibitors. The compounds showed a similar interaction profile to Oseltamivir by molecular docking with high binding affinity. The key residue TYR 406 hydrogen bonded to Penicitrinol and Frenolicin D as well as to Oseltamevir. The 4 natural compounds exerted drug-like properties and promising pharmacokinetic characters. Toxicity risks estimations put Penicitrinol K and Frenolicin as devoted to mutagenic, tumorigenic, irritant and reproductive potentials. Penicitrinol K and Frenolicin are assigned for further in vitro and in vivo studies as promising neuraminidase inhibitors. Conclusion: Penicitrinol K, and Frenolicin D are promising natural neuraminidase inhibitors, exhibiting favourable drug-like properties and low toxicity risks in addition to showing the pattern of interaction profiles with neuraminidase enzymes similar to the known drug Oseltamivir contributing to the development of effective antiviral therapies against influenza, suggesting further in vitro and in vivo evaluation.

Investigation of Novel Quinoline Derivatives Targeting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors as Anticancer Agents a Computational Approach

Background: Newer chemical entities are created and synthesis has been made feasible by a variety of computer-aided drug design (CAAD) techniques. In addition to facilitating the visualisation of the ligand-target binding process, the application of in silico methodologies and structure-based drug design (SBDD) allows for the prediction of receptor affinities and significant binding pocket locations. Objective: The goal of the current study was to identify new quinoline derivatives by computational methods specially designed to bind the EGFR receptor in the treatment of breast cancer. Materials and Methods: ChemAxon Marvin Sketch 5.11.5 was used to create derivatives of quinolines. The admetSAR online web tools and SwissADME were utilised to forecast the toxicity and pharmacokinetic characteristics of several substances. A multitude of software programmes, such as Autodock 1.1.2, MGL Tools 1.5.6, Procheck, Protparam ExPasy tool, PyMOL, and Biovia Discovery Studio Visualizer v20.1.0.19295 were also employed to ascertain the ligand-receptor interactions between quinoline derivatives and the target receptor (PDB -5GNK). Result: Almost all components were shown to be less hazardous, orally consumable and to have the appropriate pharmacokinetic characteristics based on in silico study. All newly generated derivative compounds have higher docking scores when compared to the widely used medication sorafenib. Conclusion: Interactions with quinoline analogues boost binding energy and the number of Hbonds produced, making them a suitable place to start when creating compounds for further exploration. The quinoline moiety increases its potential as a novel therapy alternative for breast cancer and could facilitate more comprehensive in vivo, in vitro, chemical-based, and pharma studies by medicinal chemists.

Prodigiosin Demonstrates Promising Antiviral Activity Against Dengue Virus and Zika Virus in In‐silico Study

ABSTRACTDengue (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV), transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, pose significant public health challenges. Effective treatments for these viruses remain elusive, highlighting the urgent need for new efficient antiviral therapies. This study explores prodigiosin, a microbial tripyrrole pigment, as an antiviral agent against both DENV and ZIKV employing advanced analytical approaches which integrate molecular docking, CASTp 3.0 validation and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations providing insights into molecular interactions at an atomic level. Prodigiosin exhibited favourable drug‐likeness properties, meeting Lipinski's rule of five and demonstrating optimal physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics according to Ghose's, Veber's, Egan's and Muegge's filters, essential for oral bioavailability. Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity profiling indicated high intestinal absorption, minimal risk for drug‐drug interactions and a low toxicity profile, with no AMES toxicity, hepatotoxicity, or skin sensitization. Molecular docking revealed prodigiosin's strong binding affinities to NS5 methyltransferases of both DENV (−7.6 kcal/mol) and ZIKV (−7.7 kcal/mol) viruses, suggesting potential disruption of viral replication. Notably, prodigiosin's binding affinities were comparable to ribavirin‐5'‐triphosphate and chloroquine, known inhibitors of DENV and ZIKV, respectively. MD simulations confirmed stable and specific interactions with prodigiosin with low root‐mean‐square deviation values. Additional analyses, including root‐mean‐square fluctuation, radius of gyration and solvent‐accessible surface area, indicated compact and stable complexes. These multi‐parametric in‐silico analytical strategies provide a novel perspective of prodigiosin as an antiviral agent, demonstrating its drug interactions at the molecular level. These promising results suggest that prodigiosin could serve as a broad‐spectrum antiviral agent against both DENV and ZIKV, warranting further experimental validation for therapeutic development against flaviviral infections.

Comprehensive assessment of schiff base derived from 4-Chloroaniline and 2-Formylphenol: Molecular architecture, experimental with computational bioactivity profiling, emphasizing anticancer efficacy against pulmonary and mammary carcinoma cell models

This study thoroughly analyses the structural and biological properties of a Schiff base compound synthesized from the condensation of 2-formyl phenol and 4-chloroaniline. Single crystal X-ray diffraction examination indicated that the compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c, with unit cell parameters a = 13.4232(15) Å, b = 5.7860(6) Å, c = 14.699(2) Å, β = 106.048(6) °, and Z = 4. The molecular structure has an E configuration around the C = N double bond, with a bond length of 1.266(2) Å, and includes an intramolecular O—H⋯N hydrogen bond. Hirshfeld surface analysis elucidated intermolecular interactions inside the crystal lattice, emphasizing dominant hydrogen-hydrogen, hydrogen-chlorine, and carbon-hydrogen contacts. The chemical exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies on DNA interactions indicate van der Waals forces between the ligand and nucleic acid, whereas it demonstrated considerable binding affinity for BSA with a ΔG value of -6.9 kcal/mol. ADME study revealed values within the recommended range, indicating advantageous pharmacokinetic characteristics. PASS filter-based cytotoxicity predictions indicated significant anti-cancer efficacy against breast adenocarcinoma, small cell lung carcinoma, and lung cancer. Toxicological assessments in diverse models indicated no possible irritation to skin and ocular tissues, highlighting its safety profile for therapeutic use. This research advances our comprehension of Schiff bases with halogen substituents and their prospective uses in chemistry and biology.

Biophysical insight into the interaction mechanism of 4-bromo-N-(thiazol-2- yl)benzenesulfonamide and human serum albumin using multi-spectroscopic and computational studies

4-Bromo-N-(thiazol-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide (1) is enriched with bioactive components and is highlighted for its pharmacological properties. However, its pharmacokinetic characteristics are yet to be reported. The interaction of compound 1 with carrier proteins in the bloodstream is an important factor that affects its potential therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to elucidate the pharmacokinetic mechanisms of compound 1 in relation to human serum albumin (HSA) using multi-spectroscopic and computational techniques. Its predicted drug-like properties revealed no mutagenicity, although potential hepatotoxicity and interactions with certain cytochrome P450 enzymes were observed. Spectroscopic analyses extensively provided the interaction between HSA and 1 through a static fluorescence quenching mechanism with spontaneous hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding. The binding constant of the HSA‒1 complex was relatively moderate to strong at a level of 106 M−1. Various spectroscopic techniques including ultraviolet-visible, Fourier-transform infrared, and circular dichroism spectroscopies indicated that its binding induced alteration in the α-helix content of HSA. Competitive binding and molecular docking studies designated the preferential binding of 1 to sub-structural domain IIA binding site I of HSA. Molecular dynamic simulations further illustrated the formation of a stable complex between 1 and HSA, accompanied by conformational changes in the protein. Importantly, esterase capacity of the HSA‒1 complex increased compared to the free HSA. Therefore, elucidation of the HSA‒1 binding mechanism provides valuable insights into the pharmacokinetics, suggesting potential benefits for the further development of 1 as a therapeutic agent.

Imetelstat, a novel, first‐in‐class telomerase inhibitor: Mechanism of action, clinical, and translational science

AbstractMost cancers and neoplastic progenitor cells have elevated telomerase activity and preservation of telomeres that promote cellular immortality, making telomerase a rational target for the treatment of cancer. Imetelstat is a first‐in‐class, 13‐mer oligonucleotide that binds with high affinity to the template region of the RNA component of human telomerase and acts as a competitive inhibitor of human telomerase enzymatic activity. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, exposure‐response analyses, efficacy, and safety of imetelstat have been evaluated in vitro, in vivo, and clinically in solid tumor and hematologic malignancies, including lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (LR‐MDS) and myeloproliferative neoplasms. Imetelstat was approved in the United States in June 2024 for the treatment of adult patients with LR‐MDS with transfusion‐dependent anemia requiring four or more red blood cell units over 8 weeks who have not responded to or have lost response to or are ineligible for erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents, with a recommended dosing regimen of 7.1 mg/kg administered via 2‐h intravenous infusion every 4 weeks. In the pivotal trial, significantly more patients treated with imetelstat versus placebo achieved ≥8‐week and ≥24‐week red blood cell‐transfusion independence, and imetelstat was associated with a manageable safety profile characterized primarily by short‐lived and manageable neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. This mini‐review summarizes the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics, clinical development, and clinical efficacy and safety data of imetelstat.

Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Indole-triazole Conjugates.

Indole-triazole conjugates have emerged as promising candidates for new drug development. Their distinctive structural characteristics, coupled with a wide array of biological activities, render them a captivating and promising field of research for the creation of novel pharmaceutical agents. This study aimed to synthesize indole-triazole conjugates to investigate the influence of various substituents on the functional characteristics of indole-triazole hybrids. It also aimed to study the binding modes of new hybrids with the DNA Gyrase using molecular docking studies. A new set of indole-triazole hybrids was synthesized and characterized using various physicochemical and spectral analyses. All hybrids underwent in-silico pharmacokinetic prediction studies. The antimicrobial efficacy of the hybrids was assessed using tube dilution and agar diffusion methods. Additionally, the in-vitro antioxidant activity of synthesized compounds was determined using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl free radical scavenging assay. Furthermore, in silico molecular docking studies were performed to enhance our comprehension of how the synthesized compounds interact at the molecular level with DNA gyrase. Pharmacokinetic predictions of synthesized hybrids indicated favourable pharmacokinetic profiles, and none of the compounds violated the Lipinski rule of five. Notably, compound 6, featuring a cyclohexanol substituent, demonstrated superior antimicrobial and antioxidant activity (EC50 value = 14.23 μmol). Molecular docking studies further supported the in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial findings, revealing that all compounds adeptly fit into the binding pocket of DNA Gyrase and engaged in interactions with crucial amino acid residues. In summary, our research underscores the efficacy of molecular hybridization in shaping the physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and biological characteristics of novel indole-triazole derivatives.

Pharmacokinetic profiling and network pharmacology of honey-fried Licorice: An Integrative workflow to study traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs)

Licorice, known as the “elder statesman,” is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulations. This study aims to establish a workflow combining animal and in silico experiments to elucidate the mechanisms of TCMs at both qualitative and quantitative levels. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS was employed to qualitatively characterize the total components of honey-fried licorice and the plasma components after oral administration in Beagle dogs. A UPLC-Q-Trap-MS/MS method was developed for the pharmacokinetic study of honey-fried licorice components in Beagle dog plasma. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were utilized to explore the primary functional targets and pathways. In total, we identified 68 constituents in honey-fried licorice, with 28 detected in Beagle dog plasma, and 18 of them, mainly belong to flavonoids and terpenoids, showing significant exposure. The plasma pharmacokinetic study of these 18 constituents revealed that compounds like liquiritin, glycyrrhizic acid, licoricesaponin G2, and glycyrrhetic acid-3-o-glucuronide had significant exposure. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses identified MAPK3, PIK3CB, PIK3CA, RAF1, and EGFR as the main targets of the active constituents of honey-fried licorice, involved in pathways such as the Ras signaling pathway, human cytomegalovirus infection, and the MAPK signaling pathway. This study provides a comprehensive profile and pharmacokinetic characteristics of honey-fried licorice, offering insights into its pharmacological, toxicological, and clinical aspects. The established workflow can serve as a standard for investigating other TCMs.

Correction of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in women of reproductive age: choice of a drug within framework of concept of patient blood management

The article presents a review of the literature and our own data on the problem of prevention, diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in patients of reproductive age with a burdened somatic status with the development of a chronic inflammatory process. In the concept of patient blood management (PBM), the diagnosis and treatment of anemia in patients with gynecological diseases requiring subsequent surgical treatment is given paramount importance, since anemia and iron deficiency are considered risk factors for worse treatment outcomes for patients. Women with gynecological pathology often have diseases that are accompanied by the development of a systemic inflammatory response, which leads to activation of hepcidin protein synthesis and the development of so-called anemia of inflammatory diseases. Data are presented indicating the effectiveness and safety of the sucrosomial iron drug (SiderAL® Forte) in obstetric and gynecological patients with increased levels of C-reactive protein in combination with iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. The increase in ferrokinetic parameters in patients receiving sucrosomial iron is due to the unique physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics of sucrosome, which provides protection of sucrosomial iron from the effects of gastric juice, excluding contact with the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract and its absorption through special M-cells of the small intestinal mucosa followed by the release of iron in liver cells. Sucrosomial iron is novel, convenient, effective, and well tolerated compared with traditional oral iron supplements.

Comparative pharmacokinetics of porcine and human anti-influenza hemagglutinin monoclonal antibodies in outbred pigs and minipigs.

Assessing the pharmacokinetics of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in relevant animal models is essential for designing improved formulations and developing mAb delivery platforms. We have established the pig, a large natural host animal for influenza with many similarities to humans, as a robust model for testing the therapeutic efficacy of anti-influenza mAbs and evaluating mAb delivery platforms. Here, we compared the pharmacokinetic characteristics of two anti-influenza hemagglutinin mAbs, human 2-12C and porcine pb27, in Göttingen minipigs and Landrace × Large White outbred pigs. Minipigs offer the advantage of a more stable weight, whereas outbred pigs are more readily available but exhibit rapid growth. Outbred pigs and minipigs showed similar pharmacokinetics and a similar porcine pb27 half-life (half-life of 15.7 days for outbred pigs and 16.6 days for minipigs). In contrast, the half-life of human 2-12C was more rapid in two of the minipigs but not in the outbred pigs, correlating with the development of antidrug antibodies in the two minipigs. Our results demonstrate that both outbred pigs and minipigs are appropriate models for pharmacokinetic studies and the evaluation of mAb delivery platforms, potentially bridging the gap between small animals and human trials.

Anxiolytic Efficacy of Indirubin: In Vivo Approach Along with Receptor Binding Profiling and Molecular Interaction with GABAergic Pathways.

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or unease. The current research was conducted to investigate the anxiolytic effect of indirubin (IND) in different behavioral paradigms in Swiss albino mice. To observe the animal's behavioural response to assess anxiolytic activity, different tests were performed, such as the open-field (square cross, grooming, and rearing), swing, dark-light, and hole cross tests. The experimental mice were administered IND (5 and 10 mg/kg, p.o.), where diazepam (DZP) and vehicle were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. In addition, a combination treatment (DZP+IND-10) was provided to the animals to determine the modulatory effect of IND on DZP. Molecular docking approach was also conducted to determine the binding energy of IND with the GABAA receptor (α2 and α3 subunits) and pharmacokinetics were also estimated. The findings revealed that IND dose-dependently significantly (p<0.05) reduced the animal's movement exerting calming behavior like DZP. IND also demonstrated the highest docking score (-7.7 kcal/mol) against the α3 subunit, while DZP showed a lower docking value (-6.4 kcal/mol) than IND. The ADMET analysis revealed that IND has proper drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic characteristics. In conclusion, IND exerted anxiolytic effects through GABAergic Pathways.