Green hydrothermal synthesis and characterization of Ag2O-supported MgO/rGO nanocomposites by using Phoenix leaf extract: a promising approach for enhanced photocatalytic and anticancer activities.

The present work was designed to synthesize Ag2O-supported MgO/rGO nanocomposites (NCs) via green method using Phoenix leaf extract for improved photocatalytic and anticancer activity. Green synthesized Ag2O-supported MgO/rGO NCs were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman, ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) was applied to examine the chemical components of the Phoenix leaf extract. Characterization data confirmed the preparation of MgO NPs, Ag2O-MgO NCs, and Ag2O-MgO/rGO NC with particle size of 26-28 nm. UV-vis study exhibited that the band gap energy of MgO NPs, Ag2O-MgO NCs, and Ag2O-MgO/rGO NC were in the range of 3.53-3.43 eV. The photocatalytic results showed that the photodegradation of Rh B dye of Ag2O-supported MgO/rGO NCs (82.81%) was significantly higher than pure MgO NPs. Additionally, the biological response demonstrates that the Ag2O-supported MgO/rGO NCs induced high cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cancer cells for 24 h and 48 h compared with both pure MgO NPs and Ag2O-MgO NCs. This study suggests that the adding of Ag2O and rGO sheets played significant role in the enhanced photocatalytic and anticancer performance of MgO NPs.

One-step preparation, characterization, and anticancer potential of ZnFe2O4/RGO nanocomposites.

Zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZnFe2O4 NPs) have attracted extensive attention for their diverse applications including sensing, waste-water treatment, and biomedicine. The novelty of the present work is the fabrication of ZnFe2O4/RGO NCs by using a one-step hydrothermal process to assess the influence of RGO doping on the physicochemical properties and anticancer efficacy of ZnFe2O4 NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray(EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-vis spectroscopy, and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy were employed to characterize prepared pure ZnFe2O4 NPs and ZnFe2O4/ RGO NCs. XRD results showed that the synthesized samples have high crystallinity. Furthermore, the average crystal sizes of ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) and ZnFe2O4/RGO nanocomposites (NCs) were 51.08 nm and 54.36 nm, respectively. SEM images revealed that pure ZnFe2O4 NPs were spherical in shape with uniformly loaded on the surface of the RGO nanosheet. XPS and EDX analysis confirmed the elemental compositions of ZnFe2O4/RGO NCs. Elemental mapping of SEM shows that the elemental compositions (Zn, Fe, O, and C) were homogeneously distributed in ZnFe2O4/RGO NCs. The intensity of FT-IR spectra depicted that pure ZnFe2O4 NPs were successfully anchored into the RGO nanosheet. An optical study suggested that the band gap energy of ZnFe2O4/RGO NCs (1.61 eV) was lower than that of pure ZnFe2O4 NPs (1.96 eV). PL spectra indicated that the recombination rate of the ZnFe2O4/ RGO NCs was lower than ZnFe2O4 NPs. MTT assay was used to evaluate the anticancer performance of ZnFe2O4 /RGO NCs and pure ZnFe2O4NPs against human cancer cells. In vitro study indicates that ZnFe2O4 /RGO NCs have higher anticancer activity against human breast (MCF-7) and lung (A549) cancer cells as compared to pure form ZnFe2O4 NPs. This work suggests that RGO doping enhances the anticancer activity of ZnFe2O4NPs by tuning its optical behavior. This study warrants future research on potential therapeutic applications of these types of nanocomposites.

Multitargeted pharmacokinetics, molecular docking and network pharmacology-based identification of effective phytocompounds from Sauropus androgynus (L.) Merr for inflammation and cancer treatment.

According to worldwide health data, cancer, and inflammatory illnesses are on the rise and are among the most common causes of death. Across the world, these types of health problems are now considered top priorities for government health organizations. Hence, this study aimed to investigate medicinal plants' potential for treating cancer and inflammatory disorders. This network pharmacology analysis aims to learn more about the potential targets and mechanisms of action for the bioactive ingredients in Sauropus androgynus (L.) Merr L. The compound-target network and protein-protein interaction analysis were built using the STRING database. Using Network Analyst, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes, pathway enrichment was performed on the hub genes. 1-hexadecanol was shown to inhibit drug-metabolizing enzymes in a pharmacokinetic investigation. Those samples of 1-hexadecanol were found to be 1-hexadecanol (BBB 0.783), GI High, Pgp Substrate Yes, CYP2C19 Inhibitor Yes, CYP2D6 Yes, and HI -89.803. The intermolecular binding energies for 1-hexadecanol (4-DRI, -8.2 kcal/mol) are evaluated. These results from a study on S. androgynus used molecular docking and network pharmacology to gain insight into the prime target genes and potential mechanisms identified for AKT1, mTOR, AR, PPID, FKBP5, and NR3C1. The PI3K-Akt signalling pathway has become an important regulatory node in various pathological processes requiring coordinated actions. Stability and favourable conformations have been resolved by considering nonbonding interactions such as electrostatic and hydrogen bonds in MD simulations of the perfect molecules using the Desmond package. Thus, using an appropriate platform of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments, this study provides for the first time a clearer knowledge of the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory molecular bioactivities of S. androgynus. Further in vitro and in vivo confirmations are strongly needed to determine the efficacy and therapeutic effects of 1-hexadecanol in the biological process.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Bi2O3-Doped WO3 Nanoparticles Decorated on rGO Sheets: Simple Synthesis, Characterization, Photocatalytic Performance, and Selective Cytotoxicity toward Human Cancer Cells.

Graphene derivatives and metal oxide-based nanocomposites (NCs) are being studied for their diverse applications including gas sensing, environmental remediation, and biomedicine. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of rGO and Bi2O3 integration on photocatalytic and anticancer efficacy. A novel Bi2O3-WO3/rGO NCs was successfully prepared via the precipitation method. X-ray crystallography (XRD) data confirmed the crystallographic structure and the phase composition of the prepared samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis confirmed the loading of Bi2O3-doped WO3 NPs on rGO sheets. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) results confirmed that all elements of carbon (C), oxygen (O), tungsten (W), and bismuth (Bi) were present in Bi2O3-WO3/rGO NCs. The oxidation state and presence of elemental compositions in Bi2O3-WO3/rGO NCs were verified by the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study. Raman spectra indicate a reduction in carbon-oxygen functional groups and an increase in the graphitic carbon percentage of the Bi2O3-WO3/rGO NCs. The functional group present in the prepared samples was examined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. UV analysis showed that the band gap energy of the synthesized samples was slightly decreased with Bi2O3 and rGO doping. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra showed that the recombination rate of the electron-hole pair decreased with the dopants. Degradation of RhB dye under UV light was employed to evaluate photocatalytic performance. The results showed that the Bi2O3-WO3/rGO NCs have high photocatalytic activity with a degradation rate of up to 91%. Cytotoxicity studies showed that Bi2O3 and rGO addition enhance the anticancer activity of WO3 against human lung cancer cells (A549) and colorectal cancer cells (HCT116). Moreover, Bi2O3-WO3/rGO NCs showed improved biocompatibility in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) than pure WO3 NPs. The results of this work showed that Bi2O3-doped WO3 particles decorated on rGO sheets display improved photocatalytic and anticancer activity. The preliminary data warrants further research on such NCs for their applications in the environment and medicine.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue and Anticancer Response of In2O3/RGO Nanocomposites Prepared by a Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis Process.

The incorporation of graphene with metal oxide has been widely explored in various fields, including energy storage devices, optical applications, biomedical applications, and water remediation. This research aimed to assess the impact of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) doping on the photocatalytic and anticancer properties of In2O3 nanoparticles. Pure and In2O3/RGO nanocomposites were effectively synthesized using the single-step microwave hydrothermal process. XRD, TEM, SEM, EDX, XPS, Raman, UV-Vis, and PL spectroscopy were carefully utilized to characterize the prepared samples. XRD data showed that synthesized In2O3 nanoparticles had high crystallinity with a decreased crystal size after RGO doping. TEM and SEM images revealed that the In2O3 NPs were spherical and uniformly embedded onto the surface of RGO sheets. Elemental analysis of In2O3/RGO NC confirmed the presence of In, O, and C without impurities. Raman analysis indicated the successful fabrication of In2O3 onto the RGO surface. Uv-Vis analysis showed that the band gap energy was changed with RGO addition. Raman spectra confirmed that In2O3 nanoparticles were successfully anchored onto the RGO sheet. PL results indicated that the prepared In2O3/RGO NCs can be applied to enhance photocatalytic activity and biomedical applications. In the degradation experiment, In2O3/RGO NCs exhibited superior photocatalytic activity compared to that of pure In2O3. The degradation efficiency of In2O3/RGO NCs for MB dye was up to 90%. Biological data revealed that the cytotoxicity effect of In2O3/RGO NCs was higher than In2O3 NPs in human colorectal (HCT116) and liver (HepG2) cancer cells. Importantly, the In2O3/RGO NCs exhibited better biocompatibility against human normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). All the results suggest that RGO addition improves the photocatalytic and anticancer activity of In2O3 NPs. This study highlights the potential of In2O3/RGO NCs as an efficient photocatalyst and therapeutic material for water remediation and biomedicine.

Bismuth Oxide (Bi2O3) Nanoparticles Cause Selective Toxicity in a Human Endothelial (HUVE) Cell Line Compared to Epithelial Cells.

A review of recent literature suggests that bismuth oxide (Bi2O3, referred to as B in this article) nanoparticles (NPs) elicit an appreciable response only after a concentration above 40-50 µg/mL in different cells all having an epithelial origin, to the best of our knowledge. Here, we report the toxicological profile of Bi2O3 NPs (or BNPs) (71 ± 20 nm) in a human endothelial cell (HUVE cell line) in which BNPs exerted much steeper cytotoxicity. In contrast to a high concentration of BNPs (40-50 µg/mL) required to stimulate an appreciable toxicity in epithelial cells, BNPs induced 50% cytotoxicity in HUVE cells at a very low concentration (6.7 µg/mL) when treated for 24 h. BNPs induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and depletion of the intracellular antioxidant glutathione (GSH). BNPs also induced nitric oxide (NO,) which can result in the formation of more harmful species in a fast reaction that occurs with superoxide (O2•-). Exogenously applied antioxidants revealed that NAC (intracellular GSH precursor) was more effective than Tiron (a preferential scavenger of mitochondrial O2•-) in preventing the toxicity, indicating ROS production is extra-mitochondrial. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) loss mediated by BNPs was significantly less than that of exogenously applied oxidant H2O2, and MMP loss was not as intensely reduced by either of the antioxidants (NAC and Tiron), again suggesting BNP-mediated toxicity in HUVE cells is extra-mitochondrial. When we compared the inhibitory capacities of the two antioxidants on different parameters of this study, ROS, LPO, and GSH were among the strongly inhibited biomarkers, whereas MMP and NO were the least inhibited group. This study warrants further research regarding BNPs, which may have promising potential in cancer therapy, especially via angiogenesis modulation.

Green Synthesis of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles by Using Abrus precatorius Bark Extract and Their Photocatalytic, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Cytotoxicity Activities.

The current research is concerned with the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) from Abrus precatorius L. bark extract via the green chemistry method. The synthesized MgO NPs was confirmed by using several characterization methods like XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, and UV-visible analysis. The synthesized MgO NPs displayed a small particle size along with a specific surface area. Abrus precatorius bark synthesized MgO NPs with a higher ratio of dye degradation, and antioxidant activity showed a higher percentage of free radical scavenging in synthesized MgO NPs. Zebrafish embryos were used as a model organism to assess the toxicity of the obtained MgO nanoparticles, and the results concluded that the MgO NPs were nontoxic. In addition, the anticancer properties of MgO nanoparticles were analyzed by using a human melanoma cancer cell line (A375) via MTT, XTT, NRU, and LDH assessment. MgO NPs treated a human melanoma cancer cell line and resulted in apoptosis and necrosis based on the concentration, which was confirmed through a genotoxicity assay. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms in necrosis and apoptosis were conferred to depict the association of magnesium oxide nanoparticles with the human melanoma cancer cell line. The current study on MgO NPs showed a broad-scope understanding of the use of these nanoparticles as a medicinal drug for melanoma cancer via its physiological mechanism and also a novel route to obtain MgO NPs by using the green chemistry method.

Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Augmented Anticancer Activity of ZrO2 Doped ZnO/rGO Nanocomposite.

Fabrication of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) via green process has received enormous attention for its application in biomedicine. Here, a simple and cost-effective green route is reported for the synthesis of ZrO2-doped ZnO/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites (ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs) exploiting ginger rhizome extract. Our aim was to improve the anticancer performance of ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs without toxicity to normal cells. The preparation of pure ZnO NPs, ZnO/ZrO2 NCs, and ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). XRD spectra of ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs exhibited two distinct sets of diffraction peaks, ZnO wurtzite structure, and ZrO2 phases (monoclinic + tetragonal). The SEM and TEM data show that ZrO2-doped ZnO particles were uniformly distributed on rGO sheets with the excellent quality of lattice fringes without alterations. PL spectra intensity and particle size of ZnO decreased after ZrO2-doping and rGO addition. DLS data demonstrated that green prepared samples show excellent colloidal stability in aqueous suspension. Biological results showed that ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs display around 3.5-fold higher anticancer efficacy in human lung cancer (A549) and breast cancer (MCF7) cells than ZnO NPs. A mechanistic approach suggested that the anticancer response of ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs was mediated via oxidative stress evident by the induction of the intracellular reactive oxygen species level and the reduction of the glutathione level. Moreover, green prepared nanostructures display good cytocompatibility in normal cell lines; human lung fibroblasts (IMR90) and breast epithelial (MCF10A) cells. However, the cytocompatibility of ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs in normal cells was better than those of pure ZnO NPs and ZnO/ZrO2 NCs. Augmented anticancer potential and improved cytocompatibility of ZnO/ZrO2/rGO NCs was due to ginger extract mediated beneficial synergism between ZnO, ZrO2, and rGO. This novel investigation emphasizes the significance of medicinal herb mediated ZnO-based NCs synthesis for biomedical research.

An integrative GC-MS and LC-MS metabolomics platform determination of the metabolite profile of Bombax ceiba L. root, and in silico & in vitro evaluation of its antibacterial & antidiabetic activities.

The Bombax ceiba L. tree is a member of the family Bombacaceae and the genus Bombax. Both Chinese and Indian traditional medicine have made extensive use of it in the treatment of sickness. Its chemical composition is still a mystery. B. ceiba roots methanol extract (BCRME) was analyzed by different chromatographic analytical techniques in order to identify its major chemical constituents. Twelve compounds and six compounds were identified from GC-MS and LC-MS analysis, respectively. This is the first report on the presence of lathodoratin, cedrene, 4H-1-benzopyran-4-one,8-[{dimethylamino} methyl]-7-methoxy-3-methyl-2-phenyl, asiatic acid, and (E)-2,4,4'-trihydroxylchalcone in B. ceiba roots. Methanol extract demonstrated noteworthy antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC96) (MIC: 100 µg/mL) compare to antibiotic ampicillin (MIC: 250 µg/mL) as well as the highest α-amylase inhibition (IC50=26.91 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase inhibition (IC50=21.21 µg/mL) effects, molecular docking study confirmed these findings, with some compounds having a very high docking score.

Photodeposition mediated synthesis of silver-doped indium oxide nanoparticles for improved photocatalytic and anticancer performance.

Indium oxide nanoparticles (In2O3 NPs) are being investigated for a number of applications including gas-sensing, environmental remediation, and biomedicine. We aimed to examine the effect of silver (Ag) doping on photocatalytic and anticancer activity of In2O3 NPs. The Ag-doped (2%, 4%, and 6%weight) In2O3 NPs were synthesized by the photodeposition method. Prepared samples were characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV-Vis spectroscopy, and the photoluminescence (PL). XRD data showed that Ag-doping increases the crystallinity of In2O3 NPs. SEM and TEM images indicated that In2O3 NPs have spherical morphology with smooth surfaces, and Ag-doping increases the size without affecting the particle's shape. XPS spectra showed the oxidation state and the presence of Ag in In2O3 NPs. Band gap energy of In2O3 NPs decreases with increasing the concentration of Ag (3.41 eV to 3.12 eV). The peak intensity of PL spectra of In2O3 NPs also reduces with the increment of Ag ions suggesting the hindrance of the recombination rate of e-/h+. The photocatalytic activity was measured by the degradation of Rh B dye under UV irradiation. The degradation efficiency of Ag-doped (6%) In2O3 NPs was 92%. Biochemical data indicated that Ag-doping enhances the anticancer performance of In2O3 NPs against human lung cancer cells (A549). Moreover, Ag-doped In2O3 NPs displayed excellent biocompatibility in normal human lung fibroblasts (IMR90). Overall, this study demonstrated that Ag-doping enhances the photocatalytic activity and anticancer efficacy of In2O3 NPs. This study warrants further investigation on the environmental and biomedical applications of Ag-In2O3 NPs.

Dietary Antioxidant Curcumin Mitigates CuO Nanoparticle-Induced Cytotoxicity through the Oxidative Stress Pathway in Human Placental Cells.

The placenta is an important organ that maintains a healthy pregnancy by transporting nutrients to the fetus and removing waste from the fetus. It also acts as a barrier to protect the fetus from hazardous materials. Recent studies have indicated that nanoparticles (NPs) can cross the placental barrier and pose a health risk to the developing fetus. The high production and widespread application of copper oxide (CuO) NPs may lead to higher exposure to humans, raising concerns of health hazards, especially in vulnerable life stages, e.g., pregnancy. Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Due to its strong antioxidant activity, dietary curcumin can act as a therapeutic agent for adverse pregnancy. There is limited knowledge on the hazardous effects of CuO NPs during pregnancy and their mitigation by curcumin. This study aimed to investigate the preventive effect of curcumin against CuO NP-induced toxicity in human placental (BeWo) cells. CuO NPs were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal process and characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and photoluminescence techniques. We observed that curcumin did not induce toxicity in BeWo cells (1-100 µg/mL for 24 h), whereas CuO NPs decreased the cell viability dose-dependently (5-200 µg/mL for 24 h). Interestingly, CuO NP-induced cytotoxicity was effectively mitigated by curcumin co-exposure. The apoptosis data also exhibited that CuO NPs modulate the expression of several genes (p53, bax, bcl-2, casp3, and casp9), the activity of enzymes (caspase-3 and -9), and mitochondrial membrane potential loss, which was successfully reverted by co-treatment with curcumin. The mechanistic study suggested that CuO-induced reactive oxygen species generation, lipid peroxidation, and higher levels of hydrogen peroxide were significantly alleviated by curcumin co-exposure. Moreover, glutathione depletion and the lower activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase) were effectively mitigated by curcumin. We believe this is the first report exhibiting that CuO-induced toxicity in BeWo cells can be effectively alleviated by curcumin. The pharmacological potential of dietary curcumin in NP-induced toxicity during pregnancy warrants further investigation.

Apoptosis-mediated anti-proliferative activity of Calligonum comosum against human breast cancer cells, and molecular docking of its major polyphenolics to Caspase-3.

Due to poor diagnosis breast cancer in women has emerged as the most common cause of death disease in developing countries. Medicinal plants have been used for thousands of years and can be useful in healthcare, especially in developing countries. Ethanol extracts of leaves of fire bush or arta (Calligonum comosum; EECC), exhibited significant anticancer potencies against two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA 231. These in vitro effects of EECC indicated potential anticancer activities that were determined to be specific since minimal toxicity was recorded against MCF-12, a non-cancerous breast cell line used as a reference. EECC also induced cell cycle arrest in MCF-7 and MDA 231 as revealed by the increased proportions of sub-G1 cells. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis (FACS), utilizing double staining by annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide, revealed that the observed cytotoxic effects were mediated via apoptosis and necrosis. FACS measurement of thegreater in fluorescence intensity, linked with oxidation of DCFH to DCF, revealed that apoptosis was attributable to production of free radicals. EECC-mediated apoptosis was further validated by observation of up-regulation in the "executioner" enzyme, caspase 3. The current findings reveal that EECC exhibits significant, selective cytotoxicity to breast cancer cells, that proceeds via the generation of ROS, which culminates in apoptosis. The anti-proliferative effects of EECC weres further verified by use of a structure-based, virtual screening between its major bioactive polyphenolic constituents and the apoptosis executioner marker enzyme, caspase-3. Based on their glide score values against the active site of caspase 3, some phyto-constituents present in EECC, such as DL-alpha-tocopherol and campesterol, exhibited distinctive, drug-like potential with no predicted toxicity to non-target cells. Taken together, the usefulness of natural phenolic and flavonoid compounds contained in Calligonum comosum were suggested to be potent anticancer agents.

Antioxidant, Anti-Proliferative Activity and Chemical Fingerprinting of Centaurea calcitrapa against Breast Cancer Cells and Molecular Docking of Caspase-3.

Centaurea calcitrapa has been intensively utilized in ethnomedicinal practices as a natural therapeutic recipe to cure various ailments. The current study aimed to chemically characterize ethanolic extract of C. calcitrapa (EECC) aerial parts (leaves and shoots) by use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses (GC-MS) and investigate its antioxidant and in vitro anticancer activities, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism by use of flow cytometry-based fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and conducting in silico assessment of binding inhibitory activities of EECC major compounds docked to caspase-3. CG-MS profiling of EECC identified a total of 26 major flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds. DPPH and ABTS assays revealed that EECC exhibits potent antioxidant activity comparable to standard reducing agents. Results of the proliferation assay revealed that EECC exhibit potent, dose-dependent cytotoxic activities against triple-positive (MCF-7) and triple-negative (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cell models, with IC50 values of 1.3 × 102 and 8.7 × 101 µg/mL, respectively. The observed cytotoxic effect was specific to studied cancer cells since EECC exhibited minimal (~<10%) cytotoxicity against MCF-12, a normal breast cell line. FACS analysis employing annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide double labeling demonstrated that the observed anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 was mediated via apoptotic as well as necrotic signaling transduction processes. The increase in fluorescence intensity associated with DCFH oxidation to DCF, as reported by FACS, indicated that apoptosis is caused by generation of ROS. The use of caspase-3-specific fluorogenic substrate revealed a dose-dependent elevation in caspase-3 substrate-cleavage activity, which further supports EECC-mediated apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. The major EECC compounds were examined for their inhibitory activity against caspase-3 receptor (1HD2) using molecular docking. Three compounds exhibited the highest glide score energy of −5.156, −4.691 and −4.551 kcal/mol, respectively. Phenol, 2,6-dimethoxy established strong binding in caspase-3 receptor of hydrogenic type, with residue ARG 207 and of PI-PI stacking type with residue HIS 121. By contract, hexadecenoic acid showed 3 H-bond with the following residues: ASN 615, ASN 616a and THR 646. Taken together, the current findings reveal that EECC exhibits significant and specific cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells mediated by the generation of ROS and culminating into necrosis and apoptosis. Further investigations of the phytoconstituents-rich C. calcitrapa are therefore warranted against breast as well as other human cancer cell models.

High Performance of Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor Based on a Novel PEDOT:PSS/PPA Nanocomposite.

In this work, the carbon monoxide (CO) detection property of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate)/poly(p-anisidine) (PEDOT:PSS/PPA) nanocomposite was systematically investigated at room temperature. The PEDOT:PSS/PPA nanocomposite was synthesized by the cost-effective "in situ chemical oxidation polymerization" technique. The electric, optical, spectroscopic, and structural properties of the as-prepared nanomaterials were analyzed with I-V, UV-vis, Raman, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopies. Topological investigations of materials were conducted by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The gas-sensing performance of the PEDOT:PSS/PPA and PEDOT:PSS nanocomposites toward CO gas in the concentration range of 50-300 ppm at room temperature was explored, and their performances were compared. The PEDOT:PSS/PPA sensor shows a perfectly linear response to different concentrations (50-300 ppm) of CO gas (R 2 = 0.9885), and the response time and recovery time of the CO gas sensor (100 ppm) can be about 58 and 61 s, respectively, showing high sensitivity to CO gas and rapid response recovery with outstanding stability. Thus, the PEDOT:PSS/PPA-based sensors, with their impressive sensing performance, may give assurance for future high-performance CO-sensing applications.

Design and synthesis of novel enantiopure Bis(5-Isoxazolidine) derivatives: insights into their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential via in silico drug-likeness, pharmacokinetic, medicinal chemistry properties, and molecular docking studies.

A series of novel compounds, mono-5-isoxazolidines, and bis (5-isoxazolidines) derivatives, were prepared as bicycloadducts. The new series of isoxazolidines were designed and synthesized via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of nitrones with 3,9-Divinyl-2,4,8,10-tetra oxaspiro (5-5) undecane in the context of new antimicrobial and antioxidant drugs discovery and were fully characterized by FT-IR, 13C-NMR, and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The physicochemical properties of all the novel cycloadducts, like bioactivity score and lipophilicity, were predicted using calculative methods. Similarly, the pharmacokinetic properties such as metabolism, absorption, distribution, and excretion (ADME) were also predicted. Most of the tested compounds exhibited antimicrobial properties to varying degrees against various bacterial species, including the Gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and the Gram-positive bacteria Streptococcus pyogenus and Staphylococcus aureus, Antifungal properties were also observed against the tested fungi like Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus clavatus. The activity data exhibited that most compounds have high activity as compared to the standard drugs. In the range of graded doses, the results of some selected compounds revealed that some are high antioxidants while others are moderate or weak antioxidants. As evidenced by the molecular docking studies, the synthesized compounds showed good binding mode better than a standard drug, against the protein of a Pantothenate Synthetase enzyme (PDB-2X3F).

Combined effect of single-walled carbon nanotubes and cadmium on human lung cancer cells.

Co-exposure of widely used single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and ubiquitous cadmium (Cd) to humans through ambient air is unavoidable. Studies on joint toxicity of SWCNTs and Cd in human cells are scarce. We aimed to investigate the joint effects of SWCNTs and Cd in human lung epithelial (A549) cells. Results showed that SWCNTs were safe while Cd induce significant toxicity to A549 cells. Remarkably, Cd-induced cell viability reduction, lactate dehydrogenase leakage, cell cycle arrest, dysregulation of apoptotic gene (p53, bax, bcl-2, casp3, and casp9), and mitochondrial membrane potential depletion were significantly mitigated following SWCNTs co-exposure. Cd-induced intracellular level of reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide, and lipid peroxidation were significantly attenuated by SWCNT co-exposure. Moreover, glutathione depletion and lower activity of antioxidant enzymes after Cd exposure were also effectively abrogated by co-exposure of SWCNTs. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry study indicated that higher adsorption of Cd on SCWNTs might decreased cellular uptake and the toxic potential of Cd in A549 cells. Our work warranted further research to explore the potential mechanism of joint effects of SWCNTs and Cd at in vivo levels.

CeO2-Zn Nanocomposite Induced Superoxide, Autophagy and a Non-Apoptotic Mode of Cell Death in Human Umbilical-Vein-Derived Endothelial (HUVE) Cells.

In this study, a nanocomposite of cerium oxide-zinc (CeO2-Zn; 26 ± 11 nm) based on the antioxidant rare-earth cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles (NPs) with the modifier zinc (Zn) was synthesized by sintering method and characterized. Its bio-response was examined in human umbilical-vein-derived endothelial (HUVE) cells to get insight into the components of vascular system. While NPs of CeO2 did not significantly alter cell viability up to a concentration of 200 µg/mL for a 24 h exposure, 154 ± 6 µg/mL of nanocomposite CeO2-Zn induced 50% cytotoxicity. Mechanism of cytotoxicity occurring due to nanocomposite by its Zn content was compared by choosing NPs of ZnO, possibly the closest nanoparticulate form of Zn. ZnO NPs lead to the induction of higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) (DCF-fluorescence), steeper depletion in antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and a greater loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) as compared to that induced by CeO2-Zn nanocomposite. Nanocomposite of CeO2-Zn, on the other hand, lead to significant higher induction of superoxide radical (O2•-, DHE fluorescence), nitric oxide (NO, determined by DAR-2 imaging and Griess reagent) and autophagic vesicles (determined by Lysotracker and monodansylcadeverine probes) as compared to that caused by ZnO NP treatment. Moreover, analysis after triple staining (by annexin V-FITC, PI, and Hoechst) conducted at their respective IC50s revealed an apoptosis mode of cell death due to ZnO NPs, whereas CeO2-Zn nanocomposite induced a mechanism of cell death that was significantly different from apoptosis. Our findings on advanced biomarkers such as autophagy and mode of cell death suggested the CeO2-Zn nanocomposite might behave as independent nanostructure from its constituent ones. Since nanocomposites can behave independently of their constituent NPs/elements, by creating nanocomposites, NP versatility can be increased manifold by just manipulating existing NPs. Moreover, data in this study can furnish early mechanistic insight about the potential damage that could occur in the integrity of vascular systems.

One-Pot Synthesis of SnO2-rGO Nanocomposite for Enhanced Photocatalytic and Anticancer Activity.

Metal oxide and graphene derivative-based nanocomposites (NCs) are attractive to the fields of environmental remediation, optics, and cancer therapy owing to their remarkable physicochemical characteristics. There is limited information on the environmental and biomedical applications of tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites (SnO2-rGO NCs). The goal of this work was to explore the photocatalytic activity and anticancer efficacy of SnO2-rGO NCs. Pure SnO2 NPs and SnO2-rGO NCs were prepared using the one-pot hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV-Vis spectrometry, photoluminescence (PL), and Raman scattering microscopy were applied to characterize the synthesized samples. The crystallite size of the SnO2 NPs slightly increased after rGO doping. TEM and SEM images show that the SnO2 NPs were tightly anchored onto the rGO sheets. The XPS and EDX data confirmed the chemical state and elemental composition of the SnO2-rGO NCs. Optical data suggest that the bandgap energy of the SnO2-rGO NCs was slightly lower than for the pure SnO2 NPs. In comparison to pure SnO2 NPs, the intensity of the PL spectra of the SnO2-rGO NCs was lower, indicating the decrement of the recombination rate of the surfaces charges (e-/h+) after rGO doping. Hence, the degradation efficiency of methylene blue (MB) dye by SnO2-rGO NCs (93%) was almost 2-fold higher than for pure SnO2 NPs (54%). The anticancer efficacy of SnO2-rGO NCs was also almost 1.5-fold higher against human liver cancer (HepG2) and human lung cancer (A549) cells compared to the SnO2 NPs. This study suggests a unique method to improve the photocatalytic activity and anticancer efficacy of SnO2 NPs by fusion with graphene derivatives.

Enhanced Anticancer Performance of Eco-Friendly-Prepared Mo-ZnO/RGO Nanocomposites: Role of Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis.

ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted great attention in cancer therapy because of their novel and tailorable physicochemical features. Pure ZnO NPs, molybdenum (Mo)-doped ZnO NPs, and Mo-ZnO/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites (Mo-ZnO/RGO NCs) were prepared using a facile, inexpensive, and eco-friendly approach using date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit extract. Anticancer efficacy of green synthesized NPs/NCs was examined in two different cancer cells. The potential mechanism of the anticancer activity of green synthesized NPs/NCs was explored through oxidative stress and apoptosis. The syntheses of pure ZnO NPs, Mo-ZnO NPs, and Mo-ZnO/RGO NCs were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and photoluminescence (PL). Dynamic light scattering (DLS) study indicated the excellent colloidal stability of green prepared samples. Mo-ZnO/RGO NCs exhibited threefold higher anticancer activity in human colon (HCT116) and breast (MCF7) cancer cells as compared to pure ZnO NPs. The anticancer activity of Mo-ZnO/RGO NCs was mediated through reactive oxygen species, p53, and the caspase-3 pathway. Moreover, cytocompatibility of Mo-ZnO/RGO NCs in human normal colon epithelial (NCM460) and normal breast epithelial cells (MCF10A) was much better than those of pure ZnO NPs. Altogether, green stabilized Mo-ZnO/RGO NCs exhibited enhanced anticancer performance and improved cytocompatibility because of green mediated good synergism between ZnO, Mo, and RGO. This study suggested the high nutritional value fruit-based facile preparation of ZnO-based nanocomposites for cancer therapy.

Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Exhibit Cell Death Through Oxidative Stress Responses in Human Airway Epithelial Cells: a Mechanistic Study.

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) are purposefully used to inhibit the growth of bacteria, algae, and fungi. Several studies on the beneficial and harmful effects of CuONPs have been conducted in vivo and in vitro, but there are a few studies that explain the toxicity of CuONPs in human airway epithelial cells (HEp-2). As a result, the purpose of this study is to look into the dose-dependent toxicity of CuONPs in HEp-2 cells. After 24 h of exposure to 1-40 µg/ml CuONPs, the MTT and neutral red assays were used to test for cytotoxicity. To determine the mechanism(s) of cytotoxicity in HEp-2 cells, additional oxidative stress assays (LPO and GSH), the amount of ROS produced, the loss of MMP, caspase enzyme activities, and apoptosis-related genes were performed using qRT-PCR. CuONPs exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity in HEp-2 cells, with an IC50 value of ~ 10 µg/ml. The morphology of HEp-2 cells was also altered in a dose-dependent manner. The involvement of oxidative stress in CuONP-induced cytotoxicity was demonstrated by increased LPO levels and ROS generation, as well as decreased levels of GSH and MMP. Furthermore, activated caspase enzymes and altered apoptotic genes support CuONPs' ability to induce apoptosis in HEp-2 cells. Overall, this study demonstrated that CuONPs can cause apoptosis in HEp-2 cells via oxidative stress; therefore, CuONPs may pose a risk to human health and should be handled and used with caution.