scholarly journals In VitroDrug Combination Studies of Letermovir (AIC246, MK-8228) with Approved Anti-Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Anti-HIV Compounds in Inhibition of HCMV and HIV Replication

2015 ◽  
Vol 59 (6) ◽  
pp. 3140-3148 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steffen Wildum ◽  
Holger Zimmermann ◽  
Peter Lischka
Keyword(s):  
Human Cytomegalovirus ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Opportunistic Pathogen ◽  
Multidrug Resistant ◽  
Severe Toxicity ◽  
Transplant Recipients ◽  
Hiv Drugs ◽  
Anti Hiv

ABSTRACTDespite modern prevention and treatment strategies, human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) remains a common opportunistic pathogen associated with serious morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised individuals, such as transplant recipients and AIDS patients. All drugs currently licensed for the treatment of HCMV infection target the viral DNA polymerase and are associated with severe toxicity issues and the emergence of drug resistance. Letermovir (AIC246, MK-8228) is a new anti-HCMV agent in clinical development that acts via a novel mode of action and has demonstrated anti-HCMV activityin vitroandin vivo. For the future, drug combination therapies, including letermovir, might be indicated under special medical conditions, such as the emergence of multidrug-resistant virus strains in transplant recipients or in HCMV-HIV-coinfected patients. Accordingly, knowledge of the compatibility of letermovir with other HCMV or HIV antivirals is of medical importance. Here, we evaluated the inhibition of HCMV replication by letermovir in combination with all currently approved HCMV antivirals using cell culture checkerboard assays. In addition, the effects of letermovir on the antiviral activities of selected HIV drugs, and vice versa, were analyzed. Using two different mathematical techniques to analyze the experimental data, (i) additive effects were observed for the combination of letermovir with anti-HCMV drugs and (ii) no interaction was found between letermovir and anti-HIV drugs. Since none of the tested drug combinations significantly antagonized letermovir efficacy (or vice versa), our findings suggest that letermovir may offer the potential for combination therapy with the tested HCMV and HIV drugs.

scholarly journals <i>In Vitro</i> and <i>in Vivo</i> (Mouse) Evaluation of Drug-Drug Interactions of Repaglinide with Anti-HIV Drugs

2015 ◽  
Vol 06 (04) ◽  
pp. 241-246
Author(s):  
Vijay Saradhi Mettu ◽  
P. Yadagiri Swami ◽  
P. Abigna ◽  
A. Ravinder Nath ◽  
Geeta Sharma
Keyword(s):  
Drug Interactions ◽  
Hiv Drugs ◽  
Anti Hiv

scholarly journals Human Cytomegalovirus Reduces Endothelin-1 Expression in Both Endothelial and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. 1137
Author(s):  
Koon-Chu Yaiw ◽  
Abdul-Aleem Mohammad ◽  
Chato Taher ◽  
Huanhuan Leah Cui ◽  
Helena Costa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Smooth Muscle ◽  
Smooth Muscle Cells ◽  
Human Cytomegalovirus ◽  
Muscle Cells ◽  
Opportunistic Pathogen ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Precursor Protein ◽  
Endothelin 1

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is an opportunistic pathogen that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictive peptide, is overexpressed and strongly associated with many vasculopathies. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether HCMV could affect ET-1 production. As such, both endothelial and smooth muscle cells, two primary cell types involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, were infected with HCMV in vitro and ET-1 mRNA and proteins were assessed by quantitative PCR assay, immunofluorescence staining and ELISA. HCMV infection significantly decreased ET-1 mRNA and secreted bioactive ET-1 levels from both cell types and promoted accumulation of the ET-1 precursor protein in infected endothelial cells. This was associated with inhibition of expression of the endothelin converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1), which cleaves the ET-1 precursor protein to mature ET-1. Ganciclovir treatment did not prevent the virus suppressive effects on ET-1 expression. Consistent with this observation we identified that the IE2-p86 protein predominantly modulated ET-1 expression. Whether the pronounced effects of HCMV in reducing ET-1 expression in vitro may lead to consequences for regulation of the vascular tone in vivo remains to be proven.

scholarly journals Manganese complex [Mn(CO)3(tpa-κ3N)]Br increases antibiotic sensitivity in multidrug resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Apostolos Liakopoulos ◽  
Roberto M. La Ragione ◽  
Christoph Nagel ◽  
Ulrich Schatzschneider ◽  
Daniel E. Rozen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Antibacterial Activity ◽  
Multidrug Resistance ◽  
Streptococcus Pneumoniae ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Antibiotic Sensitivity ◽  
Multidrug Resistant ◽  
Novel Treatment ◽  
Novel Treatment Strategies

AbstractThe emergence of multidrug-resistance (MDR) in Streptococcus pneumoniae clones and non-vaccine serotypes is of increasing concern, necessitating the development of novel treatment strategies. Here, we determined the efficacy of the Mn complex [Mn(CO)3(tpa-κ3N)]Br against MDR S. pneumoniae strains. Our data showed that [Mn(CO)3(tpa-κ3N)]Br has in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activity and has the potential to be used in combination with currently available antibiotics to increase their effectiveness against MDR S. pneumoniae.

Target Molecules and Delivery Vehicles for Anti-HIV Drugs In vitro and In vivo

2018 ◽  
Vol 24 (29) ◽  
pp. 3393-3401 ◽  
Author(s):  
Azam Bolhassani
Keyword(s):  
Drug Targeting ◽  
Immune Deficiency Syndrome ◽  
Antiretroviral Drugs ◽  
Host Cells ◽  
Target Cells ◽  
Hiv Drugs ◽  
Anti Hiv ◽  
Hiv 1

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the most serious stage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. The combinatorial Anti-Retroviral Therapy (cART) is widely used in suppressing HIV-1 infection and enhancing life span of infected patients to a significant level. However, delivery of therapeutic molecules is still a major challenge in vivo. The studies showed that the anti-HIV drugs delivered via nanocarriers could be selectively accumulated in infected cells accompanied by low side effects. On the other hand, HIV-1 infection kinetics is different in macrophages and T-cells suggesting various effects of antiretroviral drugs against HIV-1 in these target cells. Current anti-HIV therapeutic studies have focused on developing drug delivery systems targeted specifically to HIV-infected host cells. Indeed, the drug targeting can significantly lead to reduce in drug toxicity, drug dose, and increase in treatment efficacy through localizing its pharmacological activity to the site of interest. This review describes development of novel drug targeting systems used in suppressing the transmission and treatment of HIV infections.

Effects of Probiotics in the Management of Infected Chronic Wounds: From Cell Culture to Human Studies

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 193-206
Author(s):  
Brognara Lorenzo ◽  
Salmaso Luca ◽  
Mazzotti Antonio ◽  
Di M. Alberto ◽  
Faldini Cesare ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Wounds ◽  
Animal Experiments ◽  
Multidrug Resistant ◽  
Preliminary Evidence ◽  
Human Studies ◽  
In Vivo Studies ◽  
Resistant Bacteria ◽  
Keywords Probiotics

Background: Chronic wounds are commonly associated with polymicrobial biofilm infections. In the last years, the extensive use of antibiotics has generated several antibiotic-resistant variants. To overcome this issue, alternative natural treatments have been proposed, including the use of microorganisms like probiotics. The aim of this manuscript was to review current literature concerning the application of probiotics for the treatment of infected chronic wounds. Methods: Relevant articles were searched in the Medline database using PubMed and Scholar, using the keywords “probiotics” and “wound” and “injuries”, “probiotics” and “wound” and “ulcer”, “biofilm” and “probiotics” and “wound”, “biofilm” and “ulcer” and “probiotics”, “biofilm” and “ulcer” and “probiotics”, “probiotics” and “wound”. Results: The research initially included 253 articles. After removal of duplicate studies, and selection according to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, 19 research articles were included and reviewed, accounting for 12 in vitro, 8 in vivo studies and 2 human studies (three articles dealing with animal experiments included also in vitro testing). Most of the published studies about the effects of probiotics for the treatment of infected chronic wounds reported a partial inhibition of microbial growth, biofilm formation and quorum sensing. Discussion: The application of probiotics represents an intriguing option in the treatment of infected chronic wounds with multidrug-resistant bacteria; however, current results are difficult to compare due to the heterogeneity in methodology, laboratory techniques, and applied clinical protocols. Lactobacillus plantarum currently represents the most studied strain, showing a positive application in burns compared to guideline treatments, and an additional mean in chronic wound infections. Conclusions: Although preliminary evidence supports the use of specific strains of probiotics in certain clinical settings such as infected chronic wounds, large, long-term clinical trials are still lacking, and further research is needed.

scholarly journals Biological Effects of β-Glucans on Osteoclastogenesis

Molecules ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (7) ◽  
pp. 1982
Author(s):  
Wataru Ariyoshi ◽  
Shiika Hara ◽  
Ayaka Koga ◽  
Yoshie Nagai-Yoshioka ◽  
Ryota Yamasaki
Keyword(s):  
Bone Resorption ◽  
Bone Marrow Cells ◽  
Biological Effects ◽  
Osteoclast Differentiation ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Alcaligenes Faecalis ◽  
Osteoclast Formation ◽  
Osteoclast Precursors

Although the anti-tumor and anti-infective properties of β-glucans have been well-discussed, their role in bone metabolism has not been reviewed so far. This review discusses the biological effects of β-glucans on bone metabolisms, especially on bone-resorbing osteoclasts, which are differentiated from hematopoietic precursors. Multiple immunoreceptors that can recognize β-glucans were reported to be expressed in osteoclast precursors. Coordinated co-stimulatory signals mediated by these immunoreceptors are important for the regulation of osteoclastogenesis and bone remodeling. Curdlan from the bacterium Alcaligenes faecalis negatively regulates osteoclast differentiation in vitro by affecting both the osteoclast precursors and osteoclast-supporting cells. We also showed that laminarin, lichenan, and glucan from baker’s yeast, as well as β-1,3-glucan from Euglema gracilisas, inhibit the osteoclast formation in bone marrow cells. Consistent with these findings, systemic and local administration of β-glucan derived from Aureobasidium pullulans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae suppressed bone resorption in vivo. However, zymosan derived from S. cerevisiae stimulated the bone resorption activity and is widely used to induce arthritis in animal models. Additional research concerning the relationship between the molecular structure of β-glucan and its effect on osteoclastic bone resorption will be beneficial for the development of novel treatment strategies for bone-related diseases.

scholarly journals Silver Nanoparticles and Their Antibacterial Applications

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (13) ◽  
pp. 7202
Author(s):  
Tamara Bruna ◽  
Francisca Maldonado-Bravo ◽  
Paul Jara ◽  
Nelson Caro
Keyword(s):  
Silver Nanoparticles ◽  
Antibacterial Agents ◽  
Multidrug Resistant ◽  
Secondary Effects ◽  
Cytotoxic Effects ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Gram Positive Bacteria ◽  
Resistant Strains

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been imposed as an excellent antimicrobial agent being able to combat bacteria in vitro and in vivo causing infections. The antibacterial capacity of AgNPs covers Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including multidrug resistant strains. AgNPs exhibit multiple and simultaneous mechanisms of action and in combination with antibacterial agents as organic compounds or antibiotics it has shown synergistic effect against pathogens bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The characteristics of silver nanoparticles make them suitable for their application in medical and healthcare products where they may treat infections or prevent them efficiently. With the urgent need for new efficient antibacterial agents, this review aims to establish factors affecting antibacterial and cytotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles, as well as to expose the advantages of using AgNPs as new antibacterial agents in combination with antibiotic, which will reduce the dosage needed and prevent secondary effects associated to both.

scholarly journals Anti-Cancer Properties of Theaflavins

Molecules ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 987
Author(s):  
Eric J. O’Neill ◽  
Deborah Termini ◽  
Alexandria Albano ◽  
Evangelia Tsiani
Keyword(s):  
Signaling Pathways ◽  
Cancer Progression ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
B Cell Lymphoma ◽  
Black Tea ◽  
Phosphorylated Akt ◽  
Phenolic Components ◽  
Anti Cancer

Cancer is a disease characterized by aberrant proliferative and apoptotic signaling pathways, leading to uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells combined with enhanced survival and evasion of cell death. Current treatment strategies are sometimes ineffective in eradicating more aggressive, metastatic forms of cancer, indicating the need to develop novel therapeutics targeting signaling pathways which are essential for cancer progression. Historically, plant-derived compounds have been utilized in the production of pharmaceuticals and chemotherapeutic compounds for the treatment of cancer, including paclitaxel and docetaxel. Theaflavins, phenolic components present in black tea, have demonstrated anti-cancer potential in cell cultures in vitro and in animal studies in vivo. Theaflavins have been shown to inhibit proliferation, survival, and migration of many cancer cellswhile promoting apoptosis. Treatment with theaflavins has been associated with increased levels of cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and cleaved caspases-3, -7, -8, and -9, all markers of apoptosis, and increased expression of the proapoptotic marker Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and concomitant reduction in the antiapoptotic marker B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Additionally, theaflavin treatment reduced phosphorylated Akt, phosphorylated mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and c-Myc levels with increased expression of the tumour suppressor p53. This review summarizes the current in vitro and in vivo evidence available investigating the anti-cancer effects of theaflavins across various cancer cell lines and animal models.

scholarly journals DDEL-12. NANOPARTICLE DELIVERY OF DOXORUBICIN FOR THE TREATMENT OF DIFFUSE INTRINSIC PONTINE GLIOMA (DIPG)

2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (Supplement_3) ◽  
pp. iii286-iii286
Author(s):  
Caitlin Ung ◽  
Maria Tsoli ◽  
Jie Liu ◽  
Domenico Cassano ◽  
Dannielle Upton ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Pediatric Brain Tumors ◽  
Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma ◽  
Confocal Imaging ◽  
Cell Content ◽  
Potent Effect ◽  
Orthotopic Mouse Model ◽  
In Vivo Testing

Abstract DIPGs are the most aggressive pediatric brain tumors. Currently, the only treatment is irradiation but due to its palliative nature patients die within 12 months. Effective delivery of chemotherapy across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) has been a key challenge for the eradication of this disease. We have developed a novel gold nanoparticle functionalised with human serum albumin (Au-NP, 98.8 ±19 nm) for the delivery of doxorubicin. In this study, we evaluated the cytotoxic efficacy of doxorubicin delivered through gold nanoparticles (Au-NP-Dox). We found that DIPG neurospheres were equally sensitive to doxorubicin and Au-NP-Dox (at equimolar concentration) by alamar blue assay. Colony formation assays demonstrated a significantly more potent effect of Au-NP-Dox compared to doxorubicin alone, while the Au-NP had no effect. Furthermore, western blot analysis indicated increased apoptotic markers cleaved Parp, caspase 3/7 and phosphorylated H2AX in Au-NP-Dox treated DIPG neurospheres. Live cell content and confocal imaging demonstrated significantly higher uptake of Au-NP-Dox compared to doxorubicin alone. Treatment of a DIPG orthotopic mouse model with Au-NP-Dox showed no signs of toxicity with stable weights being maintained during treatment. However, in contrast to the above in vitro findings the in vivo study showed no anti-tumor effect possibly due to poor penetration of Au-NP-Dox into the brain. We are currently evaluating whether efficacy can be improved using measures to open the BBB transiently. This study highlights the need for rigorous in vivo testing of new treatment strategies before clinical translation to reduce the risk of administration of ineffective treatments.

scholarly journals A molecular architectural design that promises potent antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bing Yuan ◽  
Jiaojiao Liu ◽  
Zhixiong Deng ◽  
Lin Wei ◽  
Wenwen Li ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Architectural Design ◽  
Building Blocks ◽  
Multidrug Resistant ◽  
In Vitro Cytotoxicity ◽  
Antimicrobial Drugs ◽  
Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations ◽  
Antimicrobial Efficiency ◽  
Multidrug Resistant Pathogens

AbstractAddressing the devastating threat of drug-resistant pathogens requires the discovery of new antibiotics with advanced action mechanisms and/or novel strategies for drug design. Herein, from a biophysical perspective, we design a class of synthetic antibacterial complexes with specialized architectures based on melittin (Mel), a natural antimicrobial peptide, and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), a clinically available agent, as building blocks that show potent and architecture-modulated antibacterial activity. Among the complexes, the flexibly linear complex consisting of one Mel terminally connected with a long-chained PEG (e.g., PEG12k–1*Mel) shows the most pronounced improvement in performance compared with pristine Mel, with up to 500% improvement in antimicrobial efficiency, excellent in vitro activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens (over a range of minimal inhibitory concentrations of 2–32 µg mL−1), a 68% decrease in in vitro cytotoxicity, and a 57% decrease in in vivo acute toxicity. A lipid-specific mode of action in membrane recognition and an accelerated “channel” effect in perforating the bacterial membrane of the complex are described. Our results introduce a new way to design highly efficient and low-toxicity antimicrobial drugs based on architectural modulations with clinically available agents.

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