Lo clásico y lo nuevo en el tratamiento del sobrepeso y la obesidad / The classic and the new in the treatment of overweight and obesity

Así como planteamos en la primera entrega de esta serie de artículos de actualización sobre la obesidad, resulta urgente revisar el abordaje tradicional que la comunidad médica le ofrece a las personas con cuerpos gordos. En este segundo artículo desarrollaremos en profundidad diferentes alternativas terapéuticas para los pacientes que desean bajar de peso:plan alimentario, actividad física, tratamiento farmacológico y cirugía metabólica. (AU)

As we proposed in the first issue of this series of articles, it is urgent to review the traditional approach that the medical community offers to people with fat bodies. This second article will develop different therapeutic alternatives for patients who want to lose weight: eating plans, physical activity, pharmacological treatment, and metabolic surgery. (AU)

Design and development of 6-hydrazinonicotinyl-fatty acid-mimetic 99mTc-complex as a potential myocardial imaging agent

Abstract The goal of this work is to identify new fatty acid-mimetic 99mTc-complexes to be used as myocardial imaging agents that allow studying heart abnormalities in high-risk patients. In this sense, we designed a fatty acid-mimetic substructure including an amide moiety that, among other properties, could improve myocardial residence time. A diamide with a chain length of 15 atoms and porting a 6-hydrazinonicotinyl (HYNIC) chelator, and an analog with a short carbon-chain, were prepared with convergent organic synthetic procedures and radiolabeled with 99mTc using tricine as the sole coligand. The in vivo proofs of concept were performed using healthy mice. The new 99mTc-complexes were obtained with adequate radiochemical purity. The lipophilicities were in agreement with the length of the chains. While both 99mTc-complexes showed uptake in the myocardial muscle, the designed radiopharmaceutical with the longest chain length had preferential target-uptake and target-retention compared to other complexes described in the bibliography. Further studies, involving imaging assays, synthetic modifications, and assay of new coligands for 99mTc-HYNIC complexes, are currently ongoing.

A rapid and sensitive High-Performance Liquid Chromatography method with fluorescence detection for quantification of melatonin in small volume rat plasma samples: application to a preclinical study to determine the oral pharmacokinetics of melatonin under gestational conditions

Abstract A novel, simple and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection method was developed and validated for the characterization of the preclinical pharmacokinetics of melatonin under pregnant conditions. Plasma samples (25 µL) were treated with 30 µL of ethanol absolute (containing the internal standard, IS). After a centrifugation process, aliquots of supernant (5 µL) were injected into the chromatographic system. Compounds were eluted on a Xbridge C18 (150 mm x 4.6 mm i.d., 5 µm particle size) maintained at 30°C. The mobile phase consisted in a mixture of aqueous solution of 0.4% phosphoric acid and acetonitrile (70:30 v/v). The wavelengths were set at 305 nm (excitation) and 408 nm (emission) and the total analysis time was 8 min/sample. All validation tests were obtained with accuracy and precision, according to FDA guidelines, over the concentration range of 0.005-20 µg/mL. Pharmacokinetic study showed that melatonin systemic exposure increased from day 14, with a significant difference at 19 days of gestation compared to the control group. Our findings suggest a decreased metabolism of melatonin as result of temporary physiological changes that occur throughout pregnancy. However, other maternal physiological changes cannot be ruled out.

Risk of false conformity decisions due to measurement uncertainty of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: A multiparametric evaluation

Abstract Medicines must be subject to physical, chemical, and biological analysis to guarantee their quality, safety, and effectiveness. Despite the efforts to ensure the reliability of analytical results, some uncertainty will always be associated with the measured value, which can lead to false decisions regarding conformity/non-conformity assessment. This work aims to calculate the specific risk of false decisions regarding conformity/non-conformity of acetaminophen oral solution dosage form. The acetaminophen samples from five different manufacturers (A, B, C, D, and E) were subject to an active pharmaceutical ingredient assay, density test, and dose per drop test according to the official compendia. Based on measured values and their respective uncertainties, the risk values were calculated using the Monte Carlo method implemented in an MS Excel spreadsheet. The results for two acetaminophen oral solution samples (C and D) provided an increased total risk value of false acceptance (33.1% and 9.6% for C and D, respectively). On the other hand, the results for the other three acetaminophen samples (A, B, and E) provided a negligible risk of false acceptance (0.004%, 0.025%, and 0.045% for A, B, and E, respectively). This indicates that measurement uncertainty is very relevant when a conformity assessment is carried out, and information on the risks of false decisions is essential to ensure proper decisions.

Effect of Dioscorea villosa extract and the phytoestrogen diosgenin on ovariectomized mice with zymosan-induced arthritis

Abstract Humans are exposed to natural compounds such as phytoestrogens primarily through diet and supplements. These compounds promote health by alleviating the symptoms and illnesses associated with menopause and arthritis. Diosgenin (DSG) occurs naturally in plants such as Dioscorea villosa (DV) and binds to estrogen receptors, so it may have similar effects to this hormone, including against arthritis. Thus, we investigated the effect of chronic treatment with dry extract of DV and its phytoestrogen DSG on ovariectomized mice with arthritis. We found that dry extract of Dioscorea villosa (DV) contains the phytoestrogen diosgenin (DSG) in its composition. Furthermore, arthritic mice treated with DV and DSG showed reduced neutrophil accumulation in the articular cartilage. Also, the dry extract of DV administered orally (v.o) did not alter the leukocyte count in the joints or promote changes in the reproductive tract. However, DSG altered these parameters, with possible beneficial effects by reducing symptoms related to reproductive aging. Thus, oral treatment with dry extract of DV and subcutaneous (s.c) treatment with DSG showed promise by acting against inflammation caused by arthritis and reducing symptoms in the reproductive tract due to menopause.

Rational drug repurposing for alzheimer's treatment using in-silico ligand and structure-based approaches

Abstract Alzheimer's disease is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. New AD treatments are essential, and drug repositioning is a promising approach. In this study, we combined ligand-based and structure-based approaches to identify potential candidates among FDA-approved drugs for AD treatment. We used the human acetylcholinesterase receptor structure (PDB ID: 4EY7) and applied Rapid Overlay of Chemical Structures and Swiss Similarity for ligand-based screening.Computational shape-based screening revealed 20 out of 760 FDA approved drugs with promising structural similarity to Donepezil, an AD treatment AChE inhibitor and query molecule. The screened hits were further analyzed using docking analysis with Autodock Vina and Schrodinger glide. Predicted binding affinities of hits to AChE receptor guided prioritization of potential drug candidates. Doxazosin, Oxypertine, Cyclopenthiazide, Mestranol, and Terazosin exhibited favorable properties in shape similarity, docking energy, and molecular dynamics stability.Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the complexes over 100 ns. Binding free energy analysis using MM-GBSA indicated favourable binding energies for the selected drugs. ADME, formulation studies offered insights into therapeutic applications and predicted toxicity.This comprehensive computational approach identified potential FDA-approved drugs (especially Doxazosin) as candidates for repurposing in AD treatment, warranting further investigation and clinical assessment.

Hymenaea rubriflora Ducke stem bark extract has vasorelaxant and contractile inhibition capacity

Abstract We investigated the vasodilatory effects of Hymenaea rubriflora Ducke stem bark extract (HRHAc). Vascular reactivity of the aortic rings of Wistar rats was tested by in vitro cumulative doses (0.1 - 729 µg/mL). Rats (n=5) were treated with 25 (G25), 50 (G50) and 100 (G100) mg/ kg of HR-HAc or saline (control group - CG) for four weeks. An in vitro assay resulted in dose-dependent relaxation of the aortic rings with functional endothelium, which was inhibited in the presence of L-NAME. Rings of the treated animals increased acetylcholine relaxing potency at all doses, with a greater effect on G50 (pD2 = 7.8±0.1, Emax = 95.6±1.1) and a decreased contractile potency to phenylephrine in G25 (pD2 = 6.9±0.06, Emax = 61.5±6.0%) and G50 (pD2= 6.6±0.06, Emax = 71.0±8.5%) when compared to the CG in the presence and absence of endothelium (pD2= 6.4± 0.1, 6.4±0.1 and 6.9±0.1, respectively). Cumulative doses of nitroprusside resulted in increased relaxing potency in all treated groups and maintained Emax at 100%. It is concluded that HR-HAc has vasorelaxant capacity and inhibitory vascular contraction activity applied either directly to aortic rings or after treatment with in vivo supplementation, which places this extract as a potential nutraceutical or pharmacological agent for treating diseases associated with vascular dysfunction.

Aplicação de ferramentas de quimioinformática na comparação da estrutura tridimensional da dihidrofolato redutase expressa em diferentes organismos / Application of cheminformatics tools for comparing dihydrofolate reductase's tridimensional structure expressed by different organisms

A quimioinformática, definida como o emprego de técnicas informáticas na solução de problemas da química, evolui em conjunto com o desenvolvimento de ferramentas computacionais e é de grande relevância para o planejamento racional de fármacos ao otimizar etapas do desenvolvimento de novas moléculas e economizar recursos e tempo. Dentre as técnicas disponíveis destacam-se o planejamento de fármacos baseado na estrutura e no ligante, que quando combinadas auxiliam na identificação e otimização de moléculas ativas frente a alvos farmacológicos. A Dihidrofolato Redutase (DHFR) é uma importante enzima da via dos folatos que catalisa a redução do dihidrofolato em tetrahidrofolato, utilizando NADPH como cofator, reação essencial para a replicação celular, visto que este ciclo resulta na síntese de precursores das bases nitrogenadas que compõem o DNA, consequentemente, inibidores de DHFR são utilizados no tratamento de infecções bacterianas e alguns tipos de câncer. Trypanosoma cruzi, protozoário causador da doença de chagas, é um dos organismos que expressam a DHFR, além do próprio Homo sapiens. Analisaram-se ligantes conhecidos e as estruturas da proteína expressa pelos dois organismos, visando identificar pontos de divergência que possam ser explorados no planejamento de moléculas seletivas para o tratamento da doença de Chagas. Os 6 modelos cristalográficos de T. cruzi e 2 de H. sapiens foram obtidos do banco de dados de proteínas (PDB) após aplicação de filtros de qualidade. Foram analisadas as sequências de aminoácidos dos modelos, com o uso do Cluster Ômega, sua estrutura tridimensional com os programas Pymol e Chimera X, além da análise das cavidades proteicas com o CavityPlus, que também gerou os farmacóforos de ambos alvos. A análise de estrutura primária identificou mutações em três aminoácidos nos cristais do parasita, que podem ser explicados por diferentes caminhos evolutivos de grupos segregados, embora nenhuma mutação observada esteja em regiões de sítio ativo. A análise dos modelos permitiu que fossem identificados os 25 aminoácidos que estão a menos de 5 Å de distância dos ligantes de T. cruzi, sendo 5 aminoácidos responsáveis por interações de hidrogênio com pelo menos um dos ligantes analisados. Destes, 18 se repetem na proteína humana ou são substituídos por outro aminoácido que mantém a mesma interação. Quanto às diferenças observadas, destacam-se a asparagina 44 substituída por uma prolina na proteína humana e a prolina 92, substituída por uma lisina. A análise de cavidades identificou três cavidades em cada proteína, embora somente as cavidades correspondentes ao sítio ativo sejam druggables. A cavidade da proteína humana é maior e mais alongada, além de apresentar o aspecto de um túnel, enquanto a cavidade da proteína parasita é mais aberta, tal abertura permite que ligantes com o anel benzeno meta substituídos explorem uma região existente na cavidade de T. cruzi que é fechada na humana. O farmacóforo de ambas proteínas foi identificado, apresentando diferenças no tamanho e angulação que também podem ser explorados no planejamento de fármacos seletivos

Chemoinformatic, defined as the use of informatic techniques to solve chemical problems, has evolved together with new computational tools and it is quite important for rational drug designing, by optimizing different steps on the development pipeline of new molecules, saving resources and time. From all the available tools, structure and ligand based drug design shall be highlighted, when combined, they support the identification and optimization of active molecules from pharmaceutical targets. Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) is an important enzyme of the folate pathway that catalyzes the reduction of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate, by using NADPH as cofactor. This reaction is essential for cell replication, as this pathway results in the synthesis of nucleobases that build the DNA. That's the reason why DHFR inhibitors are used for treating bacterial infections and some types of cancer. Trypanosoma cruzi, a protozoa that causes Chagas disease, is one of the organisms that express DHFR, besides Homo sapiens itself. This work analyzed known ligands and the structure of the protein expressed by both organisms, aiming to identify divergence points that could be explored for designing selective drugs for Chagas disease treatment. The 6 proteins crystallographic models from T. cruzi and 2 from H. sapiens were obtained from protein data bank (PDB) after the application of quality filters. The amino acid sequence of each model was analyzed by Clustal Omega, its tridimensional structure by Pymol and Chimera X and the cavity analysis by CavityPlus, that also generated the pharmacophore from both targets. The primary structure analysis identified mutations on three amino acids on the parasite christal, which may be explained by different evolutive paths from segregated groups, although none of the observed mutations are on the active site region. The model's analysis allowed the identification of 24 amino acids that are closer than 5 Å from the T. cruzi ligands, 5 of them responsible for hydrogen interactions on at least one of the ligands analyzed. 18 of them are repeated on the human protein or are replaced by another amino acid that preserves the same interaction. As by the differences observed that shall be highlighted, asparagine 44 is replaced by a proline on the human protein, and proline 92 by a lysin. The cavity analysis identified three cavities on each protein, although only the cavities of the active site are druggables. The human protein cavity is bigger and longer, besides it looks like its a tunnel, when the parasite protein is open, that opening allows ligands with benzene ring meta substituted to explore the existing regions of the T. cruzi protein that is closed on the human protein. Lastly, the pharmacophore from both proteins was identified, it shows differences on size and angulation that also could be explored in the designing of selective drugs

Novas variantes de KPC em isolados do Complexo Klebsiella pneumoniae resistentes à ceftazidima-avibactam / New KPC variants in ceftazidime-avibactam-resistant K. pneumoniae Complex isolates

O Complexo K. pneumoniae (C-Kp) é o principal grupo de bacilos Gram-negativos responsáveis por infecções nosocomiais graves em todo o mundo e o tratamento empírico dessas infecções usualmente inclui os carbapenêmicos. O principal mecanismo de resistência a essa classe de antimicrobianos é a expressão de carbapenemases, e no Brasil, mais frequentemente as do tipo KPC. Em março de 2019 a ceftazidima-avibactam foi disponibilizada para uso clínico no Brasil, sendo amplamente utilizada no tratamento infecções causadas por bacilos gram-negativos produtores de KPC. Diversos países já relataram a presença de K. pneumoniae produtores de KPC resistentes à ceftazidima-avibactam. No entanto, há poucos relatos dessa ocorrência no Brasil. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar genotipicamente e fenotipicamente isolados do C-Kp produtores de KPC, resistentes à ceftazidima-avibactam. No período de julho/2019 a julho/2021, 46 isolados do C-Kp, um por paciente, foram detectados em diferentes sítios de infecção ou culturas de vigilância de pacientes internados em hospitais privados de seis estados brasileiros. Os isolados tiveram seu genoma completo sequenciado nas plataformas MiSeq e MinION para determinação da variante alélica de blaKPC e avaliação do seu contexto genético. As taxas de resistência ao ertapenem e à ceftazidima-avibactam foram calculadas a partir de banco de dados. A clonalidade dos isolados foi avaliada por PFGE e MLST. A localização plasmidial do gene blaKPC foi confirmada por conjugação e/ou transformação. A concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) para betalactâmicos foi determinada por microdiluição em caldo segundo o BrCAST. Ensaios imunocromatográficos, NG-Test CARBA-5 e O.K.N.V.I. RESIST-5, foram avaliados quanto à sua performance na detecção de variantes KPC. A taxa de resistência ao ertapenem entre isolados do C-Kp aumentou 15,6% em 2019 para 27,3% em 2021. A taxa de resistência à ceftazidima-avibactam entre isolados do C-Kp resistentes ao ertapenem aumentou de 4,2% em 2019 para 17,2% em 2021. Onze isolados apresentaram novas variantes de KPC designadas KPC-103 a KPC-108 e KPC-139 a KPC-143. Os demais isolados apresentavam variantes de KPC já descritas, sendo a KPC-33 a variante mais frequente (36%). Quinze grupos clonais foram identificados, sendo que a maioria dos isolados pertencia ao ST11. O grupo clonal A foi o mais numeroso e pertencia ao ST258. A principal variante detectada nesse grupo foi a KPC-33. Diferentes grupos de incompatibilidade foram identificados em plasmídeos alberguando blaKPC, sendo os grupos IncN (n=12) e IncF, com replicons FII(K)-FIB (n=11), os grupos mais frequentes, seguido de InX3-IncU (n=9) e IncQ1 (n=1). Dos 46 isolados resistentes à ceftazidima-avibactam, 36 foram capazes de transferir o gene blaKPC para cepas receptoras. A maioria dos isolados foi sensível dose padrão ou sensível aumentabdo exposição ao meropenem e apresentaram redução significativa da CIM quando o avibactam foi adicionado ao aztreonam. O NG-Test CARBA-5 detectou 12 das 24 variantes testadas enquanto que o O.K.N.V.I. RESIST-5 detectou apenas nove variantes. A grande diversidade de variantes KPC, e a predominância do grupo clonal ST11, e da KPC- 33 retratam um cenário preocupante no Brasil

The K. pneumoniae Complex (C-Kp) is the main group of gram-negative bacilli responsible for serious nosocomial infections worldwide and the empirical treatment of these infections usually includes carbapenems. The main mechanism of resistance to this class of antimicrobials is the expression of carbapenemases, and in Brazil, more frequently the KPC type. In March 2019, ceftazidime-avibactam was available for clinical use in Brazil, being widely used to treat infections caused by KPC-producing gram-negative bacilli. Several countries have already reported the presence of KPC-producing K. pneumoniae resistant to ceftazidime-avibactam; however, there are few reports of this occurrence in Brazil. This work aimed to genotypically and phenotypically characterize KPC-producing C-Kp isolates resistant to ceftazidimeavibactam. From July 2019 to July 2021, 46 C-Kp isolates, one per patient, were detected in different sites of infection or surveillance cultures from patients admitted to private hospitals in six Brazilian states. The isolates had their complete genome sequenced on the MiSeq and MinION platforms to determine the allelic variant of blaKPC and evaluate its genetic context. Resistance rates to ertapenem and ceftazidime-avibactam were calculated from a database. The clonality of the isolates was evaluated by PFGE and MLST. The plasmid location of the blaKPC gene was confirmed by conjugation and/or transformation. The minimal inhibitory concentrations for beta-lactams were determined by broth microdilution according to BrCAST. Immunochromatographic assays, NG-Test CARBA-5 and O.K.N.V.I. RESIST-5, were evaluated for its performance in detecting KPC variants. The resistance rate to ertapenem among C-Kp isolates increased from 15.6% in 2019 to 27.3% in 2021. The resistance rate to ceftazidime-avibactam among ertapenem-resistant C-Kp isolates increased from 4.2% in 2019 to 17.2% in 2021. Eleven isolates showed new KPC variants designated KPC-103 to KPC-108 and KPC-139 to KPC-143. The remaining isolates presented previously described KPC variants, with KPC-33 being the most common variant (36%). Fifteen clonal groups were identified, with most isolates belonging to ST11. Different incompatibility groups were identified in plasmids harboring blaKPC, with the IncN (n=12) and IncF groups, with FII(K)-FIB(n=11) replicons, being the most frequent groups, followed by InX3-IncU (n= 9) and IncQ1 (n=1). All IncX3-IncU plasmids were approximately 46 kb in size and were identified among isolates belonging to the largest identified clonal group (A) and ST258. The main variant detected in this group was KPC-33. Of the 46 ceftazidime-avibactam-resistant isolates, 36 were able to transfer the blaKPC gene to recipient strains. Most isolates were susceptible standard dose or susceptible increased exposure to meropenem and showed a significant decrease in MIC when avibactam was added to aztreonam. The NG-Test CARBA-5 was able to detect 12 of the 24 variants evaluated while the O.K.N.V.I. RESIST-5 detected only nine variants. The great diversity of KPC variants, the predominance of the ST11 clonal group, and KPC-33 portray a worrying scenario in Brazil

Modelos avançados de pele humana 3D in vitro: epiderme bioimpressa e pele tricamada contendo hipoderme para avaliação de segurança e mimético de dermatite atópica nocaute de IL-13Rα2 para estudo da função barreira / Advanced in vitro 3D human skin models: bioprinted epidermis and trilayer skin containing hypodermis for safety assessment and atopic dermatitis mimetic with IL-13Rα2 knockout for barrier function study

A reconstrução de modelos avançados de pele tridimensional in vitro, que corresponda de forma mais fidedigna ao complexo microambiente da pele humana, depende da utilização de inovações tecnológicas e da adição de novos tipos celulares representativos da pele humana. Desta maneira, estes miméticos fornecem uma plataforma de alta relevância para estudos de fisiopatologia da pele, além de propiciar um sistema para a avaliação da segurança e eficácia de cosméticos e medicamentos alternativo ao uso de animais. Dessa maneira, o Capítulo I compara a performance de uma epiderme reconstruída humana (RHE) bioimpressa com a manual utilizando o teste in vitro de irritação cutânea descrito no guia OCDE número 439. Nossos resultados demonstram que ambos os modelos de pele exibiram morfologia estratificada e a função barreira epidérmica equivalente aos modelos validados. Nos testes de irritação in vitro, ambos modelos distinguiram corretamente as substâncias de referência, classificadas entre irritantes ou não-irritantes de acordo com o limiar de viabilidade de 50%. Esse resultado indica que a bioimpressora poderia ser de grande utilidade para a automação da reconstrução de modelos epidérmicos. O tecido hipodérmico possui importante papel na homeostase da pele humana. O Capítulo II aborda a reconstrução de uma pele tricamada, contendo a camada hipodérmica, além da epiderme e derme. Usando esferoides de adipócitos diferenciados in vitro, um modelo de pele tricamada em matriz de colágeno foi construído. Ao comparar este com a pele bicamada obtivemos maior expressão de loricrina e involucrina no modelo tricamada, indicando um potencial para maior função barreira, além de maior expressão de PPAR-γ. Testes de função barreira através da resistividade elétrica não demonstraram diferenças entre os modelos, mas a aplicação de SDS a 5 mg/ml por 18 horas induziu o aumento da viabilidade na pele tricamada. Além disso, após a aplicação de SDS a 2,5% para induzir uma irritação aguda, seguida de recuperação por 42h, obtivemos maior viabilidade na pele tricamada, indicando melhor recuperação pós-lesão irritativa induzida. A pele tricamada é promissora para estudos do metabolismo da pele humana e recuperação de lesões. A dermatite atópica (DA) é uma doença eczematosa de pele caracterizada por inflamação do tipo Th2 e alteração da barreira epidérmica. IL-13 e IL-4 são centrais no comprometimento da barreira epidérmica na DA. Entre os receptores de IL-13 em queratinócitos, o receptor IL-13Rα2, tem um papel controverso na alteração da barreira cutânea. O objetivo do Capítulo III foi estudar a deleção da expressão de IL-13Rα2 em RHE, que foram expostas a IL-4 e IL-13, e avaliadas conforme a expressão dos receptores e de proteínas alteradas na DA. As epidermes com knockout em IL-13Rα2 apresentaram redução da expressão de NELL2 (p<0,0021), tipicamente aumentadas na DA. Além disso, houve redução da expressão do receptor do IL-2Rγ. Assim, um possível papel de exacerbação da DA do receptor IL-13Rα2 deve ser estudado mais extensamente para ser caracterizado

The reconstruction of advanced three-dimensional in vitro skin models, which more reliably correspond to the complex microenvironment of human skin, depends on the use of technological innovations and the addition of new cell types representative of human skin.In this way, these mimetics provide a highly relevant platform for studies of skin pathophysiology, in addition to providing a system for evaluating the safety and efficacy of cosmetics and medicines alternative to animal use. In this way, Chapter I compares the performance of a bioprinted human reconstructed epidermis (RHE) with a manual one using the in vitro skin irritation test described in OECD guide number 439. Our results demonstrate that both skin models exhibited stratified morphology and the epidermal barrier function equivalent to validated models. In in vitro irritation tests, both models correctly distinguished the reference substances, classified as irritating or non-irritating according to the viability threshold of 50%. This result indicates that the bioprinter could be of great use for automating the reconstruction of epidermal models Hypodermic tissue plays an important role in the homeostasis of human skin. Chapter II addresses the reconstruction of a three-layer skin, containing the hypodermic layer, in addition to the epidermis and dermis. Using in vitro differentiated adipocyte spheroids, a trilayer skin model in collagen matrix was constructed. When comparing this with bilayer skin, we obtained greater expression of loricrin and involucrin in the trilayer model, indicating a potential for greater barrier function, in addition to greater expression of PPAR-γ . Barrier function tests using electrical resistivity did not demonstrate differences between the models, but the application of SDS at 5 mg/ml for 18 hours induced an increase in viability in the three-layer skin. Furthermore, after applying 2.5% SDS to induce acute irritation, followed by recovery for 42 hours, we obtained greater viability in the three-layer skin, indicating better recovery after induced irritant injury. Trilayer skin holds promise for studies of human skin metabolism and injury recovery. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an eczematous skin disease characterized by Th2-type inflammation and alteration of the epidermal barrier. IL-13 and IL-4 are central to the impairment of the epidermal barrier in AD. Among the IL-13 receptors on keratinocytes, the IL-13Rα2 receptor has a controversial role in altering the skin barrier. The objective of Chapter III was to study the deletion of IL-13Rα2 expression in RHE, which were exposed to IL-4 and IL-13, and evaluated according to the expression of receptors and proteins altered in AD. Epidermis with IL-13Rα2 knockout showed reduced NELL2 expression (p<0.0021), typically increased in AD. Furthermore, there was a reduction in the expression of the IL-2Rγ receptor. Therefore, a possible AD exacerbation role of the IL-13Rα2 receptor should be studied more extensively to be characterized

Efeito da ingestão do suco de uva integral sobre a migração de leucócitos em mulheres com sobrepeso. Participação da delfinidina-3-glicosídeo como potencial modulador do perfil inflamatório e da migração celular / Effect of whole grape juice intake on leukocyte migration in overweight women. Participation of delphinidin-3-glycoside as a potential modulator of inflammatory profile and cell migration

Concentrações aumentadas de tecido adiposo corporal observadas no sobrepeso e obesidade, podem gerar a produção de diversos mediadores inflamatórios com ação direta ou indireta em influenciar a capacidade de proliferação e diferenciação das células hematopoéticas e, consequentemente, a complexa regulação que envolve os processos de migração celular. Sabe-se que o recrutamento contínuo de leucócitos durante vários estágios do processo inflamatório apresenta importante papel na gênese desse processo, participando intensamente na perpetuação da inflamação. Na literatura, vários estudos demostraram acapacidade anti-inflamatória das antocianinas sobre vários órgãos; contudo poucos estudos avaliam a influência das antocianinas sobre a migração celular. As antocianinas pertencem à ampla classe dos flavonoides que estão presentes em uma ampla variedade de frutas, vegetais e bebidas e são os compostos responsáveis pelas cores azul, violeta e vermelha desses alimentos. Sendo assim, pretende-se nesse estudo avaliar o efeito da delfinidina-3-glicosídeo, uma antocianina presente em abundância em diversas frutas com destaque para o suco de uva integral, sobre os processos de migração leucocitária. Para tanto esse trabalho foi dividido em duas etapas: (i) uma realizada em pacientes com sobrepeso que consumiram suco de uva integral e (ii) uma segunda etapa, in vitro, onde foi avaliado o efeito da delfinidina-3-glicosídeo sobre mecanismos envolvidos na modulação dos processos de migração leucocitária. Na etapa inicial com estudos in vivo, foram avaliados parâmetros bioquímicos, hematológicos, bem como a expressão de moléculas de adesão de células polimorfonucleares do sangue periférico e a quantificação de citocinas inflamatórias e alguns genes envolvidos nos processos de inflamação e migração celular. Na primeira etapa, a ingestão de suco de uva não alterou o perfil lipídico/inflamatório ou a contagem de leucócitos, entretanto, reduziu os valores circulantes de sICAM e sVCAM. Na segunda etapa, os resultados in vitro mostraram que a delfinidina reduziu a taxa de migração e a expressão de células CD11/CD18 positivas, reduziu a expressão gênica de ICAM-1 e a fosforilação e expressão gênica de NFkB, reduzindo também a produção de IL-6, IL-8 e CCL2

Increased concentrations of body adipose tissue observed in overweight and obesity may generate the production of several inflammatory mediators that can act directly or indirectly on the hematopoietic cells capacity of proliferation and differentiation and, consequently, the complex regulation that involves the processes of cell migration. It is known that the continuous recruitment of leukocytes during various stages of the inflammatory process plays an important role in the genesis of this process, intensely participating in the perpetuation of inflammation. In the literature, several studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory capacity of anthocyanins on various organs; however, few studies have evaluated the influence of anthocyanins on cell migration. Anthocyanins belong to the broad class of flavonoids that are present in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and beverages and are the compounds responsible for the blue, violet and red colors of these foods. Thus, this study intends to evaluate the effect of delphinidin-3-glycoside, an anthocyanin present in abundance in several fruits, especially whole grape juice, on leukocyte migration processes. Therefore, this study was divided into two stages: (i) one performed in overweight patients who consumed whole grape juice and (ii) a second stage, in vitro, where the effect of delphinidin-3-glycoside on mechanisms involved in the modulation of leukocyte migration processes was evaluated. In the initial stage with in vivo studies, biochemical and hematological parameters were evaluated, as well as the expression of adhesion molecules of polymorphonuclear cells of peripheral blood and the quantification of inflammatory cytokines and some genes involved in the processes of inflammation and cell migration. In the first stage, the intake of grape juice did not alter the lipid/inflammatory profile or the leukocyte count, however, it reduced the circulating values of sICAM and sVCAM. In the second step, in vitro results showed that delphinidine reduced the migration rate and expression of CD11/CD18 positive cells, reduced ICAM-1 gene expression and NFkB phosphorylation and gene expression, and also reduced IL-6, IL-8 and CCL2 production

Desenvolvimento de chocolate amargo com substituição da sacarose por mistura de fibra com edulcorantes / Development of dark chocolate by replacing sucrose by mixing fiber with sweeteners

Este trabalho teve como objetivo o estudo dos possíveis substitutos da sacarose em chocolates. O trabalho foi dividido em três capítulos a fim de se realizar um estudo abrangente sobre o tema. No Capítulo 1, concluiu-se, através de uma revisão bibliográfica, que a qualidade da textura e a estabilidade do chocolate são significativamente influenciadas pela existência de cristais específicos, especialmente os provenientes do açúcar. Por essa razão, é crucial examinar cuidadosamente a substituição desse componente. A literatura estudada menciona diversos edulcorantes e espessantes empregados para substituir a sacarose em chocolates, como os edulcorantes nutritivos e não-nutritivos, assim como os espessantes mais aplicados. O melhor edulcorante e fibra, considerando-se as literaturas estudadas, em termos de custo, propriedades reológicas e mouthfeel, para a substituição da sacarose em chocolates, seria o maltitol e a polidextrose. No Capítulo 2, foram comparados alguns chocolates amargos e ao leite, com e sem sacarose presentes no mercado. Estes chocolates apresentaram comportamento calorimétrico indicando pico de fusão, pico de caramelização e pico de carbonização variáveis de acordo com a formulação. Os chocolates apresentaram forças de ruptura semelhantes, entretanto, o dimensional das amostras influenciou na textura dos produtos. O tipo de edulcorante e os ingredientes utilizados, influenciaram no fluxo de escoamento e nas características físicas, como a cor dos chocolates. No Capítulo 3, foram formulados dois chocolates amargos, um com adição de açúcar e um com a adição de uma mistura comercial (contendo fibra de mandioca/tapioca e edulcorantes), disponível comercialmente, porém sem estudos anteriores de aplicação em chocolates, em substituição à sacarose. As amostras foram comparadas, entre si e em relação aos valores encontrados na literatura, quanto as suas propriedades nutricionais, físico-químicas e reológicas. A substituição da sacarose, pela mistura comercial, demonstrou comportamento próximo das amostras de mercado estudadas no Capítulo 2. Concluiu-se que a mistura comercial cumpre as funções da sacarose em formulação de chocolate amargo diet, mesmo que alterando algumas das propriedades físico-químicas e reológicas. Entretanto, esta mistura não é indicada para uso em formulações de chocolates forneáveis, pois apresenta pico de carbonização em temperatura precoce

This work aimed to study possible sucrose substitutes in chocolates. The study was divided into three chapters to conduct a comprehensive examination of the topic. In Chapter 1, it was concluded, through a literature review, that the texture quality and stability of chocolate are significantly influenced by the presence of specific crystals, especially those derived from sugar. For this reason, it is crucial to carefully examine the replacement of this component. The literature studied mentions various sweeteners and thickeners used to replace sucrose in chocolates, including both nutritive and non-nutritive sweeteners, as well as commonly applied thickeners. According to the literature reviewed, the best sweetener and fiber for the replacement of sucrose in chocolates, considering cost, rheological properties, and mouthfeel, would be maltitol and polydextrose. In Chapter 2, some dark and milk chocolates without sucrose available in the market were compared. These chocolates exhibited calorimetric behavior indicating variable melting peaks, caramelization peaks, and carbonization peaks according to the formulation. The chocolates exhibited similar breaking strengths, however, the dimensional characteristics of the samples influenced the texture of the products. The type of sweetener and ingredients used influenced the flow behavior and physical characteristics, such as the color of the chocolates. In the Chapter 3, two dark chocolates were formulated, one with sugar added and one with the addition of a commercial blend (containing cassava/tapioca fiber and sweeteners), commercially available, but without previous studies of application in chocolates, as a substitute for sucrose. The samples were compared, both between themselves and in relation to the values found in the literature, regarding its nutritional, physicochemical, and rheological properties. The replacement of sucrose with the commercial blend demonstrated behavior similar to the market samples studied in Chapter 2. It is concluded that the commercial blend fulfills the functions of sucrose in diet dark chocolate formulation, even changing some of the physicochemical and rheological properties of the chocolate. However, this blend is not recommended for the use in bakeable chocolate formulations, as it exhibits an early peak of carbonization

Estudo da encapsulação de fármacos antineoplásicos em sistemas nanoestruturados: Caracterização estrutural e efeito sinérgico de fármacos / Study of the encapsulation of antineoplastic drugs in nanostructured systems: Structured characterization and synergistic effect of drugs

Dentro da área da nanotecnologia, o sistema drug delivery vem sendo amplamente utilizado, cujo objetivo é proporcionar uma maior eficácia dos ativos farmacêuticos, podendo envolver desde uma distribuição mais seletiva dentro do organismo até a taxa que as moléculas serão liberadas e/ou a atenuação dos efeitos adversos provocados. Para isso, os ativos são encapsulados em nanoestruturas, podendo estas serem de natureza sintética ou natural. Dentre os nanocarreadores promissores encontram-se os cubossomos, que são nanoestruturas complexas capazes de encapsular ativos tanto hidrofílicos quanto hidrofóbicos. O objetivo deste projeto foi estudar a encapsulação de fármacos antineoplásicos em sistemas drug delivery contra linhagens celulares, investigando também as alterações estruturais sofridas pelos cubossomos e os efeitos sinérgicos dos fármacos, sendo eles: a doxorrubicina, a cisplatina, a vemurafenibe e a curcumina. As metodologias empregadas para elucidar o efeito das combinações dos fármacos, a estruturação da nanopartícula e sua citotoxicidade foram: os estudos de viabilidade celular pós-exposição, espalhamento dinâmico de luz, potencial zeta, análise de rastreamento de nanopartículas, espalhamento de raios-x a baixos ângulos, criomicroscopia eletrônica de transmissão, eficiência de encapsulação e ensaio de liberação. Inicialmente os fármacos foram testados isoladamente e em duplas, sendo utilizadas cinco linhagens celulares, afim de se promover um delineamento aos ensaios futuros. A partir destes resultados, foi-se optado por manter duas linhagens celulares, a HeLa, como representante de tecidos tumorais, e a HaCat, modelo de tecido saudável, devido a menor resistência apresentada por elas. Em relação as combinações entre as drogas, pode-se observar que todas as duplas formadas apresentaram resultados sinérgicos na linhagem tumoral, sendo mantida para os testes seguintes a combinação curcumina e vemurafenibe. Os cubossomos foram sintetizados eficientemente, sendo produzidos na ausência de fármacos bem como contendo curcumina e vemurafenibe. As nanopartículas apresentaram uma variação de diâmetro entre 189 ± 3 nm e 224 ± 2 nm, sendo o PDI entre 0,08 e 0,25. A conformação do cubossomo foi confirmada através da criomicroscopia eletrônica de transmissão e pelo espalhamento de raios-x a baixos ângulos, onde foi determinada uma estruturação característica de Pn3m. Para a eficiência de encapsulação os valores variaram entre 79% de encapsulação para a curcumina e 72% para a vemurafenibe, quando utilizadas isoladamente. No caso da encapsulação em dupla, os valores se converteram para 63% e 53% para a curcumina e vemurafenibe, respectivamente. A liberação das drogas do interior da nanopartícula oscilou entre 1500, 480 e 420 minutos para os cubossomos de curcumina, vemurafenibe e curcumina + vemunafenibe, respectivamente. Os testes de citotoxicidade demonstraram que as concentrações de 0,01 e 0,03 mg/mL foram capazes de promover uma viabilidade acima de 70%, porém, utilizando estas proporções não foi possível observar resultados significativos. Por fim, o sistema se mostrou estável e homogêneo, sendo capaz de promover a encapsulação dos fármacos tanto singularmente quanto em dupla e, apesar da quantidade de fármacos não ter sido suficiente para ocasionar alterações ao sistema celular, a execução deste trabalho abre portas para que novos estudos sejam realizados, podendo-se testar diferentes ativos bem como alterando a composição da nanopartícula afim de se reduzir a citotoxicidade

Within the area of nanotechnology, the drug delivery system has been widely used, whose objective is to provide greater effectiveness of pharmaceutical active ingredients, which may range from a more selective distribution within the organism to the rate at which the molecules will be released and/or the attenuation of adverse effects caused. To achieve this, the active ingredients are encapsulated in nanostructures, which may be synthetic or natural in nature. Among the promising nanocarriers are cubosomes, which are complex nanostructures capable of encapsulating both hydrophilic and hydrophobic active ingredients. The objective of this project was to study the encapsulation of antineoplastic drugs in drug delivery systems against cell lines, also investigating the structural changes undergone by the cubosomes and the synergistic effects ofthe drugs, namely: doxorubicin, cisplatin, vemurafenib and curcumin. The methodologies used to elucidate the effect of drug combinations, the structuring of the nanoparticle and its cytotoxicity were: post-exposure cell viability studies, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, nanoparticle tracking analysis, small angle x-rays scattering, transmission electron cryomicroscopy, encapsulation efficiency and release assay. Initially, the drugs were tested alone and in pairs, using five cell lines, in order to promote a design for future trials. Based on these results, it was decided to maintain two cell lines, HeLa, as a representative oftumor tissues, and HaCat, a model ofhealthy tissue, due to their lower resistance. Regarding the combinations between the drugs, it can be observed that all the pairs formed presented synergistic results in the tumor lineage, with the combination of curcumin and vemurafenib being maintained for the following tests. Cubosomes were efficiently synthesized, being produced in the absence of drugs as well as containing curcumin and vemurafenib. The nanoparticles varied in diameter between 189 ± 3 nm and 224 ± 2 nm, with the PDI being between 0.08 and 0.25. The conformation ofthe cubosome was confirmed through transmission electron cryomicroscopy and small angle x-rays scattering, where a characteristic structure of Pn3m was determined. For encapsulation efficiency, values varied between 79% encapsulation for curcumin and 72% for vemurafenib, when used alone. ln the case of double encapsulation, the values converted to 63% and 53% for curcumin and vemurafenib, respectively. The release of drugs from the interior of the nanoparticle ranged between 1500, 480 and 420 minutes for the curcumin, vemurafenib and cubosomes with curcumin + vemunafenib, respectively. Cytotoxicity tests demonstrated that concentrations of 0.01 and 0.03 mg/mL were capable of promoting viability above 70%, however, using these proportions it was not possible to observe significant results. Finally, the system proved to be stable and homogeneous, being able to promote the encapsulation of drugs both singly and in pairs and, although the quantity of drugs was not enough to cause changes to the cellular system, the execution of this work opens doors for new studies are carried out, with the possibility oftesting different active ingredients as well as changing the composition of the nanoparticle in order to reduce cytotoxicity

Phytochemical Screening and chemical investigation of lipoidal matter of the leaves of Latania verschaffeltii Lem. Family Arecaceae cultivated in Egypt

Abstract This study presents the first preliminary phytochemical screening and investigation of the lipoidal matter of Latania verschaffeltii Lem. leaves, belonging to the Arecaceae family. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) was used to analyze and identify compounds of saponifiable and unsaponifiable content. The preliminary phytochemical screening of total methanolic extract of Latania verschaffeltii Lem. leaves revealed the presence of unsaturated sterols and/or triterpenes, carbohydrates and/or glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic acids in the leaves. However, cardenolides, cyanogenic compounds, alkaloids, and iridoids were not detected. The results of the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis indicated that the percentage of saturated fatty acids (83.82%) is higher than that of unsaturated fatty acids (9.42%). The predominant methyl ester of a saturated fatty acid detected in the sample was hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, accounting for 41.68% of the total. The composition of the unsaponifiable matter consisted of hydrocarbons (5.66%), fatty alcohols (0.96%), terpenes (85.97%), and sterols (2.18%). The major terpenes observed were phytol (43.62%) and squalene (39.27%).

Direct spectrofluorimetric methods as alternatives to compendial ones used for the quality control of biopharmaceuticals: development, validation and application

Abstract A simple, rapid, precise, accurate and sustainable spectrofluorimetric method (SFM) was developed, validated and applied for the determination of 4-aminobenzoic acid and aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine, tryptophan and tyrosine). These compounds are used in biopharmaceutical formulations and therefore must be analyzed by quality control laboratories to meet the criteria established in pharmacopoeias. In general, potentiometric titration (PT) is described in the compendia as the official analytical technique. However, this method showed low sensitivity and selectivity, and moreover was performed with a non-aqueous solvent (acetic acid), which led to higher consumption of reagents and consequently to the formation of residues. Therefore, the SFM was developed in aqueous medium at pH 7.2 using phosphate buffer. It was successfully validated according to the ICH guidelines and showed good linearity range (r>0.999), specificity, accuracy and precision (within and between days) and robustness. The test results were compared between the SFM and PT using raw material samples, while according to the F- and t-tests at 95% confidence level, no statistical difference was found between the methods

Efficacy and safety of LY01005 versus goserelin implant in Chinese patients with prostate cancer: A multicenter, randomized, open-label, phase III, non-inferiority trial / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#LY01005 (Goserelin acetate sustained-release microsphere injection) is a modified gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist injected monthly. This phase III trial study aimed to evaluated the efficacy and safety of LY01005 in Chinese patients with prostate cancer.@*METHODS@#We conducted a randomized controlled, open-label, non-inferiority trial across 49 sites in China. This study included 290 patients with prostate cancer who received either LY01005 or goserelin implants every 28 days for three injections. The primary efficacy endpoints were the percentage of patients with testosterone suppression ≤50 ng/dL at day 29 and the cumulative probability of testosterone ≤50 ng/dL from day 29 to 85. Non-inferiority was prespecified at a margin of -10%. Secondary endpoints included significant castration (≤20 ng/dL), testosterone surge within 72 h following repeated dosing, and changes in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and prostate specific antigen levels.@*RESULTS@#On day 29, in the LY01005 and goserelin implant groups, testosterone concentrations fell below medical-castration levels in 99.3% (142/143) and 100% (140/140) of patients, respectively, with a difference of -0.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], -3.9% to 2.0%) between the two groups. The cumulative probabilities of maintaining castration from days 29 to 85 were 99.3% and 97.8%, respectively, with a between-group difference of 1.5% (95% CI, -1.3% to 4.4%). Both results met the criterion for non-inferiority. Secondary endpoints were similar between groups. Both treatments were well-tolerated. LY01005 was associated with fewer injection-site reactions than the goserelin implant (0% vs . 1.4% [2/145]).@*CONCLUSION@#LY01005 is as effective as goserelin implants in reducing testosterone to castration levels, with a similar safety profile.@*TRIAL REGISTRATION@#ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04563936.

Experimental acute anti-inflammatory activity of preparations with complexed cannabidiol in carriers

Abstract Cannabidiol (CBD) is a bioactive compound with promising anti-inflammatory results but has low aqueous solubility. Complexation of drugs with this characteristic in carriers is an alternative to improve their efficiency. This study aimed to prepare and characterize CBD complexes in different carriers, and to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of such preparations using an experimental model of edema induction in rat paws. The results were compared to a reference drug, ibuprofen (IBU). The carriers evaluated were beta cyclodextrin (bCD) and activated charcoal (AC). Quantification of the drugs in the complexes was determined, and different qualitative analyses were also performed. Oral treatments in single doses with CBD showed inhibitory effects similar to that of IBU, potentiating its bioactivity without significant adverse effects. CBD*bCD doses at 4.375, 8.75, 17.5, and 35 mg/kg significantly reduced the intensity of edema compared to equivalent doses of pure bioactive. In contrast, CBD*AC did not generate benefits. There was no significant inhibitory effect on myeloperoxidase activity, requiring more specific analyses to assess this parameter. The results suggest that the CBD*bCD complexation is perfectly feasible, increasing its anti-edematogenic efficacy in the experimental model used.

Moderate Toxicity of Potential Boron-containing Therapeutic, Dipotassium-trioxohydroxytetrafl uorotriborate - K2 (B3 O3 F4 OH) in Rats and Mice

Abstract Biological activity of boron-containing compounds (BCCs) has been well-known. Growing interest and numerous applications for BCCs have been reported. Boron and boron-containing acids show low acute toxicity in mammals but data on halogenated boroxine (HB) - dipotassium-trioxohydroxytetrafluorotriborate, K2(B3O3F4OH) acute toxicity have not been reported before. This compound, characterized as a potential therapeutic for skin changes, exhibits no observable genotoxicity in doses lower that 0.1 mg/ml in vitro and 55 mg/kg in vivo. It has also been confirmed as an antitumour agent both in vitro and in vivo as well as an inhibitor of enzymes involved in antioxidant mechanisms. The aim of this study was to assess the acute toxicity of HB and to determine the maximum tolerated dose as well as a dose free of any signs of toxicity in different test organisms. Acute toxicity of HB was tested in Sprague-Dawley and Wistar rats and BALB/c mice after single parenteral application of different doses. We determined doses free of any sign of toxicity and LD50 after single dose administration. LD50 of HB ranges from 63 to 75 mg/kg in different test models, meaning that HB shows moderate toxicity

Swertiamarin attenuates paraquat-induced pulmonary epithelial-like cell apoptosis via NOX4-mediated regulation of redox and mitochondrial function

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of swertiamarin (STM) in attenuating paraquat (PQ)-induced human lung alveolar epithelial-like cell (A549) apoptosis and the underlying mechanisms. A549 cells were pretreated with different concentrations of STM for 2 hr and then cultured with or without PQ (700 µM) for 24 hr. Cell survival was determined using the CCK8 assay. Morphological changes, MDA content, inflammatory factors, fibrogenesis parameters, apoptosis rates, redox status and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were evaluated. The expression of several genes involved in the modulation of redox status was measured by Western blotting. Cell viability and MMP were decreased, but the apoptosis rate and DCFH oxidation were elevated by PQ exposure. STM pretreatment notably increased cell viability and MMP and reduced the apoptosis rate and DCFH oxidation. Furthermore, TLR4- NOX4 signaling was significantly inhibited by STM. The downregulation of NOX4 by siRNA exerted the same protective effects as STM. This study provides the first evidence that STM attenuates PQ-induced pulmonary epithelial-like cell apoptosis via NOX4-mediated regulation of redox and mitochondrial function

Mechanical properties and immunotherapeutic effects of dissolving microneedles with different drug loadings based on hyaluronic acid

Abstract Improving vaccine immunity and reducing antigen usage are major challenges in the clinical application of vaccines. Microneedles have been proven to be painless, minimally invasive, highly efficient, and have good patient compliance. Compared with traditional transdermal drug delivery, it can effectively deliver a large-molecular-weight drug into the skin, resulting in a corresponding immune response. However, few studies have examined the relationship between microneedle loading dose and immune effects. In this study, the hyaluronic acid (HA) conical and pyramidal dissolving microneedles were prepared by the two-step vacuum drying method, respectively. The model drug ovalbumin (OVA) was added to HA to prepare dissolving microneedles with different loading amounts. The mass ratios of HA to OVA were 5:1, 5:3, and 5:5. The mechanical properties of the dissolving microneedles were characterized using nanoindentation and in vitro puncture studies. The immune effects of the matrix and drug content were studied in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Finally, the diffusion behavior of OVA and the binding mode of HA and OVA in the microneedles were simulated using Materials Studio and Autodocking software. The experimental results showed that the conical microneedles exhibited better mechanical properties. When the mass ratio of HA to OVA was 5:3, the immune effect can be improved by 37.01% compared to subcutaneous injection, and achieved a better immune effect with relatively fewer drugs. This conclusion is consistent with molecular simulations. This study provides theoretical and experimental support for the drug loading and efficacy of microneedles with different drug loadings