The Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) gene ICP10PK has a wide neuroprotective spectrum through activation of survival signaling pathways

This review discusses present understanding of the role of apoptosis and signaling cascades in neuronal pathogenesis and survival. It focuses on a herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) gene, known as ICP10PK, that prevents cell death/apoptosis in a wide spectrum of neurodegenerative conditions. Therapeutic implications for the development of HSV vectors that deliver ICP10PK and their use in the treatment/prevention of neurodegenerative disease are discussed.

Synthesis and preliminary pharmacological evaluation of new (+/-) 1,4-naphthoquinones structurally related to lapachol.

Seven new 1,4-naphthoquinones structurally related to lapachol were synthesized from lawsone and oxygenated arylmercurials. These compounds can also be seen as pterocarpan derivatives where the A-ring was substituted by the 1,4-naphthoquinone nucleus. Pharmacological screening provided evidence of significant biological activities, including effects against proliferation of the MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line, against Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 infection, and against snake poison-induced myotoxicity. One derivative displaced flunitrazepam binding and showed benzodiazepine-like activity, suggesting novel neuroactive structural motifs.