Discovery and bioassay of disubstituted β-elemene-NO donor conjugates: synergistic enhancement in the treatment of leukemia / 中国天然药物

Natural products are essential sources of antitumor drugs. One such molecule, β-elemene, is a potent antitumor compound extracted from Curcuma wenyujin. In the present investigation, a series of novel 13,14-disubstituted nitric oxide (NO)-donor β-elemene derivatives were designed, with β-elemene as the foundational compound, and subsequently synthesized to evaluate their therapeutic potential against leukemia. Notably, the derivative labeled as compound 13d demonstrated a potent anti-proliferative activity against the K562 cell line, with a high NO release. In vivo studies indicated that compound 13d could effectively inhibit tumor growth, exhibiting no discernible toxic manifestations. Specifically, a significant tumor growth inhibition rate of 62.9% was observed in the K562 xenograft tumor mouse model. The accumulated data propound the potential therapeutic application of compound 13d in the management of leukemia.

A influência do oxido nítrico na fisiopatologia da neuropatia glaucomatosa / The influence of nitric oxide on the pathophysiology of glaucomatous neuropathy

Resumo O oxido nitrico (NO) é um fator relaxante derivado do endotélio e um potente vasodilatador que impacta em vários sistemas em todo o corpo. Estudos comprovam que o fluxo sanguíneo ocular basal é regulado pelo NO, sendo um importante regulador da homeostase, especialmente dentro dos tecidos uveais. A disfunção da produção de NO seria associado ao glaucoma através da alteração da perfusão da cabeça do nervo óptico associado ao aumento da pressão intraocular devido um sistema de drenagem trabecular deficiente. O NO tornou-se uma molécula atraente para o tratamento do glaucoma devido a possibilidade de modulação da drenagem trabecular, abaixando a pressão intraocular e ação neuroprotetora melhorando a perfusão sanguínea na cabeça do nervo óptico.

Abstract Nitric Oxide (NO) is a relaxing endothelium-derived factor and a potent vasodilator that impacts various systems throughout the body. Proven studies of basal ocular blood flow are regulated by NO, being an important regulator of homeostasis, especially within the uveal tissues. The dysfunction of the production associated with glaucoma due to alteration of the optic nerve head associated to the increase of the intraocular pressure by a deficient trabecular meshwork. NO became an attractive molecule for the treatment of glaucoma due to a modulation of the trabecular meshwork, lowering the neuroprotective intra and ocular pressure for a blood surgery in the head of the optic nerve.

New metallophamaceutic reduced renal injury induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the effect of Rut-bpy (Cis-[Ru(bpy)2(SO3)(NO)]PF 6), a novel nitric oxide donor, able to modulate the histological changes caused by the NASID (meloxicam). Methods Wistar rats were assigned into three groups (n=6 rats/group): Sham group (saline solution), NSAID group (meloxicam - 15 mg/kg) and Rut-bpy group (100 mg/kg of Rut-bpy associated with 15mg/kg of meloxicam). At the end of experiments, kidneys were removed for histological study, fractal dimension and lacunarity in all animals. Results At the histological examination, all animals (six animals - 100 %) in the NSAID group had membrane thickening and other changes (necrosis, acute tubular congestion and vascular congestion); on the other hand, only one animal (16.6 %) of the Rut-bpy group had congestion. The fractal dimension and lacunarity were greater in the control and Rut-bpy group than in NSAIDs group (p<0.05). Conclusion Rut-bpy may prevent renal histological changes in rats caused by meloxicam.

New classes of glaucoma medical treatment

Glaucoma is a progressive degenerative disease of the optic nerve head, characterized by a specific pattern of axonal loss and visual field deterioration. This review aims at introducing the different novel pharmacologic agents for its treatment, as well as their mechanisms. Most glaucoma patients require lifelong care and individualized treatment. Intraocular pressure (IOP), which is regulated by aqueous humor production, outflow via the trabecular meshwork (parasympathomimetics only) and uveoscleral outflow pathways, is currently the only treatable target for glaucoma treatment. Conventional glaucoma medications are categorized as β blockers, α agonists, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, parasympathomimetics, and prostaglandin analogues. The development of basic research-derived novel classes of pharmacologic agents features novel action mechanisms, which are different from those of conventional medications. New classes of recently approved or clinical trial-tested medications include Rho-kinase inhibitors, nitric oxide donors, adenosine agonists, and prostaglandin analogs targeting E-type prostanoid receptors, etc. Their integration and future development will facilitate the expansion and customization of therapeutic options.

Synthesis and anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity of novel O-vinyl diazeniumdiolate-based nitric oxide-releasing derivatives of oleanolic acid / 中国天然药物

Considering that high levels of nitric oxide (NO) exert anti-cancer effect and the derivatives of oleanolic acid (OA) have shown potent anti-cancer activity, new O-vinyl diazeniumdiolate-based NO releasing derivatives (5a-l, 11a-l) of OA were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated in the present study. These derivatives could release different amounts of NO in liver cells. Among them, 5d, 5i, 5j, 11g, 11h, and 11j released more NO in SMMC-7721 cells and displayed stronger proliferative inhibition against SMMC-7721 and HepG2 cells than OA and other tested compounds. The most active compound 5j showed almost 20-fold better solubility than OA in aqueous solution, released larger amounts of NO in liver cancer cells than that in normal ones, and exhibited potent anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity but little effect on the normal liver cells. The inhibitory activity against the cancer cells was significantly diminished upon addition of an NO scavenger, suggesting that NO may contribute, at least in part, to the activity of 5j.

Role of NO in arterial vascular function of intertidal fish (Girella laevifrons) and marine fish (Isacia conceptionis) / Papel do NO na função vascular arterial de peixes entremarés (Girella laevifrons) e peixes marinhos (Isacia conceptionis)

Abstract Previous studies performed in intertidal fish (Girella laevifrons),as well as marine fish (Isacia conceptionis), showed that acetylcholine (ACh) produced contractions mediated by cyclooxygenases that were dependent on the area and potency of contraction in several arterial vessels. Given that the role of nitric oxide is poorly understood in fish, the objective of our study was to evaluate the role of nitric oxide in branchial afferent (ABA), branchial efferent (ABE), dorsal (DA) and mesenteric (MA) arterial vessels from both Girella laevifrons and Isacia conceptionis. We studied afferent and efferent branchial, dorsal and mesenteric arteries that were dissected from 6 juvenile specimens. Isometric tension studies were done using dose response curves (DRC) for Ach (10–13 to 10–3 M) and blockade with L-NAME (10–5 M), and DRC for sodium nitroprusside (SNP, a donor of NO). L-NAME produced an attenuation of the contractile response in the dorsal, afferent and efferent branchial arteries and a potentiation of the contraction in the MA. SNP caused 70% dilation in the mesenteric artery and 40% in the dorsal artery. Our results suggest that Ach promotes precarious dilatation in MA mediated by NO; data that is supported by the use of sodium nitroprusside. In contrast, in the vessels DA, ABA and EBA our results support that the pathway Ach-NO-relaxation is absent in both species.

Resumo Estudos anteriores, realizados no peixe intertidal (Girellalaevifrons) no peixe marinho (Isacia conceptionis), mostram que a acetilcolina (Ach) provoca contrações mediadas por ciclooxigenases que eram dependentes da área e potencia da contração em vários vasos arteriais. Tendo em conta que o papel do óxido nítrico é mal compreendido em peixes, o objetivo do nosso estudo foi avaliar o papel do óxido nítrico em vasos arteriais de ambos os peixes Girella laevifrons e Isacia conceptionis. Nós estudamos os vasos aferente, branquial (ABA), eferente branquial (ABE), dorsal (DA) e mesentérica (MA), que foram dissecadas de seis espécimes juvenis. Estudos de tensão isométrica foram realizados utilizando as curvas de dose-resposta (DRC) para Ach (10–13 a 10–3M) e bloqueio com L-NAME (10–5 M), e na DRC para o nitroprussiato de sódio (SNP, doador do NO). L- NAME produziu uma atenuação da resposta contrátil nas artérias dorsais, aferentes e eferentes branquial e uma potenciação da contração no MA. SNP causaram 70% da dilatação da artéria mesentérica e 40% na artéria dorsal. Nossos resultados sugerem que Ach promove dilatação precária em MA mediada por NO; dados que é suportada pela utlilização de nitroprussiato de sódio. Em contraste, nos vasos de DA, ABA e EBA nossos resultados suportam que a via de Ach-NO-relaxamento está ausente em ambas as espécies.

Effect of Nitric Oxide on the Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase and Its Association with Migration of Cultured Trabecular Meshwork Cells

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of exogenous nitric oxide (NO) on the migration of trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and its association with expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). METHODS: Primary human TM cells treated with 1 or 10 microM S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine (SNAP) and examined for changes in adherence. TM cells were seeded onto transwell culture inserts, and changes in their migratory activity were quantified. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine the relative changes in mRNA expression of MMPs and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). RESULTS: Treatment with SNAP did not significantly suppress TM cell adhesion or migration (p > 0.05). Treatment of TM cells with 10 microM SNAP decreased expression of MMP-2 and increased expression of membrane type MMP-1 and TIMP-2. Treatment with interleukin-1alpha triggered MMP-3 expression but did not exert significant effects on MMP-3 activation in response to SNAP. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that NO revealed no significant effect on the migration of TM cells because NO decreased MMP-2 and increased TIMP-2 expression. Although expression of certain MMPs and TIMPs change in response to NO donors, NO may modulate trabecular outflow by changing the cellular production of extracellular matrix without having a significant effect on the migration of TM cells.

Inhaled therapy for the management of perioperative pulmonary hypertension.

Patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) are at high risk for complications in the perioperative setting and often receive vasodilators to control elevated pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). Administration of vasodilators via inhalation is an effective strategy for reducing PAP while avoiding systemic side effects, chiefly hypotension. The prototypical inhaled pulmonary‑specific vasodilator, nitric oxide (NO), has a proven track record but is expensive and cumbersome to implement. Alternatives to NO, including prostanoids (such as epoprostenol, iloprost, and treprostinil), NO‑donating drugs (sodium nitroprusside, nitroglycerin, and nitrite), and phosphodiesterase inhibitors (milrinone, sildenafil) may be given via inhalation for the purpose of treating elevated PAP. This review will focus on the perioperative therapy of PH using inhaled vasodilators.

Differentially Expressed Proteins in Nitric Oxide-Stimulated NIH/3T3 Fibroblasts: Implications for Inhibiting Cancer Development

PURPOSE: Recent evidence shows that nitric oxide (NO) may exhibit both pro-cancer and anti-cancer activities. The present study aimed to determine the differentially expressed proteins in NO-treated NIH/3T3 fibroblasts in order to investigate whether NO induces proteins with pro-cancer or anti-cancer effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The cells were treated with 300 microM of an NO donor 3,3-bis-(aminoethyl)-1-hydroxy-2-oxo-1-triazene (NOC-18) for 12 h. The changed protein patterns, which were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis using pH gradients of 4-7, were conclusively identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analysis of the peptide digests. RESULTS: Seventeen differentially expressed proteins were identified in NOC-18-treated cells. Nine proteins [vinculin protein, keratin 19, ubiquitous tropomodulin, F-actin capping protein (alpha1 subunit), tropomyosin 3, 26S proteasome-associated pad1 homolog, T-complex protein 1 (epsilon subunit) N(G)-dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase, and heat shock protein 90] were increased and eight proteins (heat shock protein 70, glucosidase II, lamin B1, calreticulin, nucleophosmin 1, microtubule-associated protein retinitis pigmentosa/end binding family member 1, 150 kD oxygen-regulated protein precursor, and heat shock 70-related protein albino or pale green 2) were decreased by NOC-18 in the cells. Thirteen proteins are related to the suppression of cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis while two proteins (heat shock protein 90 and N(G)-dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase) are related to carcinogenesis. The functions of 150 kD oxygen-regulated protein precursor and T-complex protein 1 (epsilon subunit) are unknown in relation to carcinogenesis. CONCLUSION: Most proteins differentially expressed by NOC-18 are involved in inhibiting cancer development.

Effects of nitric oxide on magnocellular neurons of the supraoptic nucleus involve multiple mechanisms

Physiological evidence indicates that the supraoptic nucleus (SON) is an important region for integrating information related to homeostasis of body fluids. Located bilaterally to the optic chiasm, this nucleus is composed of magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs) responsible for the synthesis and release of vasopressin and oxytocin to the neurohypophysis. At the cellular level, the control of vasopressin and oxytocin release is directly linked to the firing frequency of MNCs. In general, we can say that the excitability of these cells can be controlled via two distinct mechanisms: 1) the intrinsic membrane properties of the MNCs themselves and 2) synaptic input from circumventricular organs that contain osmosensitive neurons. It has also been demonstrated that MNCs are sensitive to osmotic stimuli in the physiological range. Therefore, the study of their intrinsic membrane properties became imperative to explain the osmosensitivity of MNCs. In addition to this, the discovery that several neurotransmitters and neuropeptides can modulate their electrical activity greatly increased our knowledge about the role played by the MNCs in fluid homeostasis. In particular, nitric oxide (NO) may be an important player in fluid balance homeostasis, because it has been demonstrated that the enzyme responsible for its production has an increased activity following a hypertonic stimulation of the system. At the cellular level, NO has been shown to change the electrical excitability of MNCs. Therefore, in this review, we focus on some important points concerning nitrergic modulation of the neuroendocrine system, particularly the effects of NO on the SON.

Effects of Vam3 on sodium nitroprusside-induced apoptosis and SIRT1 and p53 expression in rat articular chondrocytes / 药学学报

This study is to investigate the effect of Vam3, a dimeric derivative of resveratrol, on SNP-induced apoptosis and its potential mechanism in rat articular chondrocytes. Isolated rat articular chondrocytes were treated with sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a NO donor, to induce apoptosis. Apoptosis percentage was evaluated by Annexin V-PI and nucleus fracture was examined by DAPI staining. Level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected using 2, 7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) as a fluorescence probe by fluorescence microplate reader. The change in mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by TMRE staining. Expressions of SIRT1, acetylated p53 (ac-p53), cleaved caspase 9 and cleaved caspase 3 were determined by Western blotting. It showed that Vam3 up to 10 micromol x L(-1) could significantly reduce SNP-induced rat articular chondrocytes apoptosis (P < 0.01) and nucleus fracture, inhibit the increase of intracellular ROS level (P < 0.01) and reverse the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (P < 0.01). Simultaneously, Vam3 could upregulate the expression of SIRT1, deacetylate p53, and inhibit the cleavage of caspase 9 and caspase 3 (P < 0.01) of rat articular chondrocytes exposed to SNP. This study indicates Vam3 could protect rat articular chondrocytes against SNP-induced apoptosis, perhaps through the upregulation of SIRT1 and deacetylation of p53.

Medical and Endoscopic Management of Achalasia

Achalasia is a rare primary esophageal motility disorder. Because its etiology is uncertain, treatment is focused on palliation of symptoms or for decreasing lower esophageal sphincter pressure. Treatment options include pharmacological, endoscopic and surgical methods. Various medications including nitrates, calcium channel blockers, and nitric oxide donors (sildenafil) are available, but their effectiveness is inconsistent. Endoscopic options include pneumatic balloon dilation, injection of botulinum toxin, temporary self-expandable metal stent placement, and peroral endoscopic myotomy. Laparoscopic or open myotomy can be a surgical option. We reviewed the treatment options focusing on medical and endoscopic management of achalasia.

Assessment of ocular surface toxicity after topical instillation of nitric oxide donors / Avaliação da toxicidade na superfície ocular após instilação tópica de doadores de óxido nítrico

PURPOSE: To evaluate the ocular surface toxicity of two nitric oxide donors in ex vivo and in vivo animal models: S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) and S-nitroso-N-acetylcysteine (SNAC) in a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) matrix at final concentrations 1.0 and 10.0 mM. METHODS: Ex vivo GSNO and SNAC toxicities were clinically and histologically analyzed using freshly excised pig eyeballs. In vivo experiments were performed with 20 albino rabbits which were randomized into 4 groups (5 animals each): Groups 1 and 2 received instillations of 150 µL of aqueous HPMC solution containing GSNO 1.0 and 10.0 mM, respectively, in one of the eyes; Groups 3 and 4 received instillations of 150 µL of aqueous HPMC solution-containing SNAC 1.0 and 10.0 mM, respectively, in one of the eyes. The contralateral eyes in each group received aqueous HPMC as a control. All animals underwent clinical evaluation on a slit lamp and the eyes were scored according to a modified Draize eye test and were histologically analyzed. RESULTS: Pig eyeballs showed no signs of perforation, erosion, corneal opacity or other gross damage. These findings were confirmed by histological analysis. There was no difference between control and treated rabbit eyes according to the Draize eye test score in all groups (p>0.05). All formulations showed a mean score under 1 and were classified as "non-irritating". There was no evidence of tissue toxicity in the histological analysis in all animals. CONCLUSION: Aqueous HPMC solutions containing GSNO and SNAC at concentrations up to 10.0 mM do not induce ocular irritation.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a toxidade na superfície ocular de dois compostos doadores de óxido nítrico em modelos ex vivo e in vivo: S-nitrosoglutationa (GSNO) e S-nitroso-N-acetilcisteína (SNAC), em uma matriz de hidroxipropil metilcelulose (HPMC) nas concentrações finais de 1,0 and 10,0 mM. MÉTODOS: As toxicidades de GSNO e SNAC foram avaliadas clinicamente e histologicamente em modelo ex vivo usando globos oculares porcinos recém excisados. Experimentos in vivo foram realizados com 20 coelhos albinos que foram randomizados em 4 grupos (5 animais em cada): Os grupos 1 e 2 receberam instilações de 150 µL de solução aquosa de HPMC contendo GSNO 1,0 e 10,0 mM, respectivamente, em um dos olhos; Os grupos 3 e 4 receberam instilações de 150 µL de solução aquosa de HPMC contendo SNAC 1,0 and 10,0 mM, respectivamente, em um dos olhos. Os olhos contralaterias em cada grupo receberam solução aquosa de HPMC como controle. Todos os animais foram clinicamente avaliados em lâmpada de fenda e os olhos foram pontuados de acordo com o teste de Draize modificado e analisados histologicamente. RESULTADOS: Os globos oculares porcinos não apresentaram sinais de perfuração, erosão, opacidade da córnea ou outros danos graves. Esses resultados foram confirmados pela análise histológica. Não houve diferença entre os olhos dos coelhos tratados e controles de acordo com a pontuação do teste de Draize em todos os grupos (p>0,05). Todas as formulações apresentaram um escore médio menor do que 1 e foram classificadas como "não-irritantes". Não houve evidência de toxicidade tecidual nas análises histológicas em todos os animais. CONCLUSÃO: Soluções aquosas de HPMC contendo GSNO e SNAC em concentrações até 10,0 mM não induzem irritação ocular.

Identification of mechanisms involved in the relaxation of rabbit cavernous smooth muscle by a new nitric oxide donor ruthenium compound

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relaxation in vitro of cavernous smooth muscle induced by a new NO donor of the complex nitrosil-ruthenium, named trans-[Ru(NH3)4(caffeine)(NO)]C13 (Rut-Caf) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The tissues, immersed in isolated bath systems, were pre-contracted with phenilephrine (PE) (1 µM) and then concentration-response curves (10-12 - 10-4 M) were obtained. To clarify the mechanism of action involved, it was added to the baths ODQ (10 µM, 30 µM), oxyhemoglobin (10 µM), L-cysteine (100 µM), hydroxicobalamine (100 µM), glibenclamide, iberotoxin and apamine. Tissue samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen to measure the amount of cGMP and cAMP produced. RESULTS: The substances provoked significant relaxation of the cavernous smooth muscle. Both Rut-Caf and SNP determined dose-dependent relaxation with similar potency (pEC50) and maximum effect (Emax). The substances showed activity through activation of the soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), because the relaxations were inhibited by ODQ. Oxyhemoglobin significantly diminished the relaxation effect of the substances. L-cysteine failed to modify the relaxations caused by the agents. Hydroxicobalamine significantly diminished the relaxation effect of Rut-Caf. Glibenclamide significantly increased the efficacy of Rut-Caf (pEC50 4.09 x 7.09). There were no alterations of potency or maximum effect of the substances with the addition of the other ion channel blockers. Rut-Caf induced production of significant amounts of cGMP and cAMP during the relaxation process. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, Rut-Caf causes relaxation of smooth muscle of corpus cavernosum by means of activation of sGC with intracellular production of cGMP and cAMP; and also by release of NO in the intracellular environment. Rut-Caf releases the NO free radical and it does not act directly on the potassium ion channels.

Estudo do efeito do TERPY [Ru(terpy)(bdq)NO+]3+, um novo doador de óxido nítrico, na reatividade vascular e na pressão arterial de ratos espontaneamente hipertensos (SHR) / Study of the effect of TERPY [Ru (terpy) (bdq) NO +] 3 +, a new nitric oxide donor, vascular reactivity and blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR)

O uso clínico de drogas que liberam óxido nítrico (NO) é limitado por seus efeitos colaterais. A hipotensão induzida pelo doador clássico de NO, nitroprussiato de sódio (NPS) é rápida, transiente e induz à taquicardia reflexa, o que pode ser um efeito indesejável em pacientes com doença cardíaca e uma limitação para a terapia anti-hipertensiva. Este estudo avaliou o efeito hipotensor e vasodilatador do novo doador de NO [Ru(terpy)(bdq)NO+]3+ (TERPY) e comparou com os resultados obtidos com o NPS em ratos Wistar e ratos espontaneamente hipertensos (SHR). Em outra parte do estudo, foram estudadas diferenças no mecanismo de ação desta droga entre aortas de SHR jovens e velhos. Diferente do observado para o NPS, a hipotensão induzida pelo TERPY é lenta, duradoura e não leva a alterações da frequência cardíaca. Além disso, o TERPY libera quantidades semelhantes de NO em aortas de SHR e Wistar, induzindo relaxamento parcialmente dependente de GCs em ambos os grupos, ao contrário do NPS, que libera mais NO em aortas de SHR e também é mais potente e eficaz em aortas desses animais. Fatores como o estresse oxidativo e a atividade da PDE5 são importantes para o relaxamento do TERPY em SHR, mas a inibição da PDE5 não aumenta a potência do TERPY em aortas de ratos Wistar. Além disso, o relaxamento induzido pelo TERPY é mais potente em anéis de aorta de SHR velhos do que novos. Os mecanismos de ação do TERPY são semelhantes nas aortas desses animais, mas, interessantemente, a incubação com Apocinina aumenta a potência do TERPY em aortas de SHR jovens, mas não de velhos. Em conjunto, estes dados demonstram que o composto TERPY é um doador de NO que possui vantagens em relação ao NPS. Além disso, é mais potente em aortas de animais hipertensos velhos, o que é mais uma vantagem para sua utilização e um incentivo para a realização de novos estudos que possam contribuir para entender melhor seu mecanismo de ação

The clinical use of nitric oxide (NO) releasing drugs is limited by their harmful effects. The hypotension induced by the classic NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) is fast, transient and induces reflex tachycardia, which can be an undesirable effect in patients with heart disease and a limitation for the anti-hypertensive therapy. This study evaluated the hypotensive and vasodilatory effects of the new NO donor [Ru(terpy)(bdq)NO+]3+ (TERPY) in Wistar rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). In another part of the study, we investigated the differences in the mechanism of action of this drug between aortas of young and old SHR. Different from what is observed for SNP, the hypotension induced by TERPY is slow, long lasting and doesn’t lead to alterations in the heart rate. Besides, TERPY releases similar amounts of NO in SHR and Wistar aortas, inducing a relaxation partially dependent on GCs in both groups, contrary to SNP, which releases more NO in aortas of SHR and is also more potent and efficient in the aortas of these animals. Factors as oxidative stress and the activity of PDE5 are important to the relaxation of TERPY in SHR, but the inhibition of PDE5 doesn’t increase the potency of TERPY in aortas of Wistar rats. Furthermore, the relaxation induced by TERPY is more potent in aortas of old SHR than of young ones. The mechanisms of action of TERPY are similar in the aortas of both groups, but, interestingly, the incubation with Apocynin increases the potency of TERPY in aortas of young SHR, but not of old ones. Taken together, these data show that the compound TERPY is a NO donor that has advantages in relation to SNP. Moreover, it’s more potent in aortas of old hypertensive animals, which is another advantage for its use and an incentive for the elaboration of new studies that could contribute to understand its mechanism of action

Curcumin induces differentiation of embryonic stem cells through possible modulation of nitric oxide-cyclic GMP pathway

Curcumin, an active ingredient of dietary spice used in curry, has been shown to exhibit anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. Using EB directed differentiation protocol of H-9 human embryonic stem (ES) cells; we evaluated the effect of curcumin (0-20 μmol/L) in enhancing such differentiation. Our results using real time PCR, western blotting and immunostaining demonstrated that curcumin significantly increased the gene expression and protein levels of cardiac specific transcription factor NKx2.5, cardiac troponin I, myosin heavy chain, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase during ES cell differentiation. Furthermore, an NO donor enhanced the curcumin-mediated induction of NKx2.5 and other cardiac specific proteins. Incubation of cells with curcumin led to a dose dependent increase in intracellular nitrite to the same extent as giving an authentic NO donor. Functional assay for second messenger(s) cyclic AMP (cAMP) and cyclic GMP (cGMP) revealed that continuous presence of curcumin in differentiated cells induced a decrease in the baseline levels of cAMP but it significantly elevated baseline contents of cGMP. Curcumin addition to a cell free assay significantly suppressed cAMP and cGMP degradation in the extracts while long term treatment of intact cells with curcumin increased the rates of cAMP and cGMP degradation suggesting that this might be due to direct suppression of some cyclic nucleotide-degrading enzyme (phosphodiesterase) by curcumin. These studies demonstrate that polyphenol curcumin may be involved in differentiation of ES cells partly due to manipulation of nitric oxide signaling.

Nitric oxide synthesis and biological functions of nitric oxide released from ruthenium compounds

During three decades, an enormous number of studies have demonstrated the critical role of nitric oxide (NO) as a second messenger engaged in the activation of many systems including vascular smooth muscle relaxation. The underlying cellular mechanisms involved in vasodilatation are essentially due to soluble guanylyl-cyclase (sGC) modulation in the cytoplasm of vascular smooth cells. sGC activation culminates in cyclic GMP (cGMP) production, which in turn leads to protein kinase G (PKG) activation. NO binds to the sGC heme moiety, thereby activating this enzyme. Activation of the NO-sGC-cGMP-PKG pathway entails Ca2+ signaling reduction and vasodilatation. Endothelium dysfunction leads to decreased production or bioavailability of endogenous NO that could contribute to vascular diseases. Nitrosyl ruthenium complexes have been studied as a new class of NO donors with potential therapeutic use in order to supply the NO deficiency. In this context, this article shall provide a brief review of the effects exerted by the NO that is enzymatically produced via endothelial NO-synthase (eNOS) activation and by the NO released from NO donor compounds in the vascular smooth muscle cells on both conduit and resistance arteries, as well as veins. In addition, the involvement of the nitrite molecule as an endogenous NO reservoir engaged in vasodilatation will be described.

Effect of nitric oxide inhibitor and donor substances on the infammatory process caused by endodontic irrigants

Nitric oxide (NO) has been considered a key molecule in infammation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of treatment with L-NAME and sodium nitroprussiate, substances that inhibit and release NO, respectively, on tissue tolerance to endodontic irrigants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The vital dye exudation method was used in a rat subcutaneous tissue model. Injections of 2 percent Evans blue were administered intravenously into the dorsal penial vein of 14 male rats (200-300 g). The NO inhibitor and donor substances were injected into the subcutaneous tissue in the dorsal region, forming two groups of animals: G1 was inoculated with L-NAME and G2 with sodium nitroprussiate. Both groups received injections of the test endodontic irrigants: acetic acid, 15 percent citric acid, 17 percent EDTA-T and saline (control). After 30 min, analysis of the extravasated dye was performed by light absorption spectrophotometry (620 nm). RESULTS: There was statistically signifcant difference (p<0.05) between groups 1 and 2 for all irrigants. L-NAME produced a less intense infammatory reaction and nitroprussiate intensifed this process. CONCLUSIONS: Independently of the administration of NO inhibitors and donors, EDTA-T produced the highest irritating potential in vital tissue among the tested irrigating solutions.

Effects of Rut-bpy (Cis-[Ru(bpy)2(SO3)(NO)]PF 6), a novel nitric oxide donor, in L-NAME-induced hypertension in rats / Efeitos do Rut-bpy (Cis-[Ru(bpy)2(SO3)(NO)]PF 6), um novo doador de óxido nítrico, na hipertensão induzida com L-NAME em ratos

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of Rut-bpy (Cis-[Ru(bpy)2(SO3)(NO)]PF 6), a novel nitric oxide donor in Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats. METHODS: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n=6), named according to the treatment applied (G1-Saline, G2-Rut-bpy, G3-L-NAME and G4-L-NAME+Rut-bpy). L-NAME (30 mg/Kg) was injected intraperitoneally 30 minutes before the administration of Rut-bpy (100 mg/Kg). Mean abdominal aorta arterial blood pressure (MAP) was continuously monitored. RESULTS: Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in G3 rats rose progressively, reaching 147±16 mmHg compared with 100±19 mm Hg in G1 rats (p<0.05). In G4 rats, treated with L-NAME+Rut-bpy, MAP reached 149+11 mm Hg while in G2 rats, treated with Rut-bpy, MAP values were 106±11 mm Hg. In G1 rats these values decreased progressively reaching 87+14 mm Hg after 30 minutes. An important finding was the maintenance of the MAP throughout the experiment in G2 rats. CONCLUSION: Rut-bpy does not decrease the MAP in L-Name induced hypertensive rats. However, when it is used in anesthetized hypotensive rats a stable blood pressure is obtained.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeitos do Rut-bpy (Cis-[Ru (bpy)2(SO3)(NO)] PF6), um novo doador de óxido nítrico, em ratos hipertensos induzidos pelo éster metílico de N-nitro-L-arginina (L-NAME). MÉTODOS: Vinte e quatro ratos Wistar machos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos (n = 6), nomeados de acordo com o tratamento aplicado (G1-Salina, G2-Rut-bpy, G3-L-NAME e G4-L-NAME+Rut -bpy). L-NAME (30 mg / Kg) foi injetado por via intraperitoneal 30 minutos antes da administração de Rut-bpy (100 mg / kg). A pressão arterial média (PAM) da aorta abdominal foi monitorada continuamente. RESULTADOS: A pressão arterial média (PAM) em ratos do grupo G3 subiu progressivamente, chegando a 147 ±16 mm Hg, em comparação com 100 ±19 mm Hg em ratos do G1 (p <0,05). Em ratos G4, tratados com L-NAME + Rut-bpy, a PAM atingiu 149±11 milímetros de Hg, enquanto no G2 (ratos tratados com Rut bpy) os valores da PAM foram 106 ±11 mm Hg. No G1 esses valores decresceram progressivamente, atingindo 87±14 mm Hg após 30 minutos. Um achado importante foi a manutenção da PAM durante todo o experimento em ratos do grupo G2. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de Rut bpy não diminui a PAM em ratos hipertensos por L-NAME. No entanto, quando ele é usado em ratos anestesiados, hipotensos, uma pressão arterial estável é obtida.

Influence of nitric oxide on in vitro growth, survival, steroidogenesis, and apoptosis of follicle stimulating hormone stimulated buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) preantral follicles

Effect of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a nitric oxide (NO) donor, on in vitro survival, growth, steroidogenesis, and apoptosis of buffalo preantral follicles (PFs) was investigated. PFs (200~250 microm) were isolated by micro-dissection and cultured in 0 (control), 10(-3), 10(-5), 10(-7), and 10(-9) M SNP. To examine the reversible effect of SNP, PFs were cultured with 10(-5) M SNP + 1 mM Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or 1.0 microg hemoglobin (Hb). The results showed that greater concentrations of SNP (10(-3), 10(-5), 10(-7) M) inhibited (p < 0.05) FSH-induced survival, growth, antrum formation, estradiol production, and oocyte apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. However, a lower dose of SNP (10(-9) M) significantly stimulated (p < 0.05) the survival, growth, antrum formation, follicular oocyte maturation, and stimulated progesterone secretion compared to the control. A combination of SNP + L-NAME promoted the inhibitor effect of SNP while a SNP + Hb combination reversed this effect. Nitrate and nitrite concentrations in the culture medium increased (p < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner according to SNP concentration in the culture medium. At higher concentrations, SNP had a cytotoxic effect leading to follicular oocyte apoptosis whereas lower concentrations have stimulatory effects. In conclusion, NO exerts a dual effect on its development of buffalo PFs depending on the concentration in the culture medium.