NMR and ESR study of amphotericin B interactions with various binary phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylglycerol membranes.

Several biologically relevant phospholipids are considered as potential excipients for IV administration liposome's formulation of AMB (Biopharmaceututics Classification System Class IV). On the basis of in vivo bioavaibility studies, DMPC and DMPG were ranked as the first potent encapsulation enhancers for this model drug, especially if one expects to target DMPG rich systems as pulmonary surfactant. Subsequently, dispersions (multilayers) of DMPC, DMPG or in binary systems with various molar ratios were prepared with or without AMB (molar ratios AMB/lipid) and further investigated using the 1H-,31P-NMR methods. It was found that equimolar preparations of DMPG/DMPG exhibited both a good encapsulation of AMB, while also probably able to target pulmonary surfactant. Besides DMPG did not exhibit the same solubilization properties. Conversely, no targeting by DMPC dispersion alone was expected, even if a good solubilization was obtained.

In vivo setup characterization for pulsed electromagnetic field exposure at 3 GHz.

An in vivo setup for pulsed electric field exposure at 3 GHz is proposed and characterized in this work. The exposure system allows far field, whole-body exposure of six animals placed in Plexiglas cages with a circular antenna. Chronic exposures under 18 W incident average power (1-4 kW peak power) and acute exposures under 56 W incident average power (4.7 kW peak power) were considered. Numerical and experimental dosimetry of the setup allowed the accurate calculation of specific absorption rate (SAR) distributions under various exposure conditions. From rat model numerical simulations, the whole-body mean SAR values were 1.3 W kg(-1) under chronic exposures and 4.1 W kg(-1) under acute exposure. The brain-averaged SAR value was 1.8 W kg(-1) and 5.7 W kg(-1) under chronic and acute exposure, respectively. Under acute exposure conditions, a 10 g specific absorption of 1.8 ± 1.1 mJ · kg(-1) value was obtained. With temperature rises below 0.8 °C, as measured or simulated on a gel phantom under typical in vivo exposures, this exposure system provides adequate conditions for in vivo experimental investigations under non-thermal conditions.

Risk assessment of electromagnetic fields exposure with metallic orthopedic implants: a cadaveric study.

Metallic materials are well known to strongly interact with electromagnetic fields. While biological effects of such field have been extensively studied, only few works dealt with the interactions of electromagnetic waves with passive metallic device implanted in biological system. Hence only several numerical and phantom simulation studies were focusing on this aspect, whereas no in situ anatomic experiment has been previously performed. In this study the effect of electromagnetic waves on eight different orthopaedic medical devices (six plates from 55 to 318mm length, a total knee and a total hip prosthesis) were explored on six human cadavers. To mimic a random environmental exposure resulting from the most common frequencies band used in domestic environment and medical applications (TV and radio broadcasting, cell phone communication, MRI, diathermy treatment), a multifrequency generator emitting in VHF, UHF, GSM and GCS frequency bands was used. The different medical devices were exposed to an electromagnetic field at 50W/m(2) and 100W/m(2). After 6min exposure, the temperature was measured on three points close to each medical device, and the induced currents were estimated. No significant temperature increase (<0.2°C) was finally detected; beside, a slight induced tension (up to 1.1V) was recorded but would appear too low to induce any biological side effect.

Carbon nanotubes induce inflammation but decrease the production of reactive oxygen species in lung.

With the rapid spread of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) applications, the respiratory toxicity of these compounds has attracted the attention of many scientists. Several studies have reported that after lung administration, CNTs could induce granuloma, fibrosis, or inflammation. By comparison with the mechanisms involved with other toxic particles such as asbestos, this effect could be attributed to an increase of oxidative stress. The aim of the present work was to test this hypothesis in vivo. Mice were intranasally instilled with 1.5mg/kg of double walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs). Six, 24, or 48h after administration, inflammation and localisation of DWCNTs in lungs were microscopically observed. Local oxidative perturbations were investigated using ESR spin trapping experiments, and systemic inflammation was assessed by measuring the plasma concentration of cytokines TNF-alpha, IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, IGF-1, Leptin, G-CSF, and VEGF. Examination of lungs and the elevation of proinflammatory cytokines in the plasma (Leptin and IL-6 at 6h) confirmed the induction of an inflammatory reaction. This inflammatory reaction was accompanied by a decrease in the local oxidative stress. This effect could be attributed to the scavenger capability of pure CNTs.

Hydrophobic double walled carbon nanotubes interaction with phopholipidic model membranes: (1)H-, (2)H-, (31)P NMR and ESR study.

The interactions of carbon nanotubes synthesized by catalytic chemical vapour deposition with phospholipidic bilayers, mimicking biological membranes, have been investigated using solid state (31)P- and (2)H NMR, (1)H- and (31)P NMR in liquids and ESR studies. It was found that carbon nanotubes can integrate the bilayer, depending on the overall cohesion of the membrane used. Whereas no direct interaction can be observed in small unilamellar vesicles or directly in the presence of short-chained phospholipids, carbon nanotubes incorporate into the membrane of multibilayers. The result is a significant 2-3K lowering of the transition temperature in multibilayers of dimyristoyl lecithins, which is more markedly associated with increased fluidity in the most superficial part of the membrane below the transition temperature (292-300K range). However, no ionophoric property was found on large unilamellar vesicles.

Pulsed electromagnetic field at 9.71 GHz increase free radical production in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae).

Potential human health hazards have been reported after exposure to electromagnetic fields at low power density. Increased oxidative stress has been suggested as a potential mechanism involved in long-term effect of such exposure. In the present work, yeast cultures were exposed for 20 min to a 9.71 GHz pulsed electromagnetic field at specific absorption rates (SAR) from 0.5 W/kg to 16 W/kg. Oxidative perturbations were investigated using ESR spin trapping experiments and their impacts on membrane fluidity were assessed using spin label five nitroxide stearate. The experiments using the water-soluble spin trap alpha-(4-pyridyl-1-oxide)-N-t-butylnitrone and the lipid-soluble N-tert-butyl-alpha-phenylnitrone showed an increase of spin adduct production both in low power density exposure (SAR<4 W/kg) and in thermal conditions (SAR>4 W/kg). The membrane fluidity diminutions after exposure in all the conditions were consistent with lipid peroxidation. The overall results suggest an increase of the free radical production in the intra cellular compartment; however no effect on the yeast vitality was found.

[Effects of mobile phones and radar radiofrequencies on the eye]. / Effets des ondes hyperfréquences des téléphones mobiles et des radars sur l'oeil.

The increasing applications of microwaves, mainly in mobile phones and radar, induce a higher rate of exposed people, sometimes cause of worry. Eyeballs are hotspots of radiofrequency field radiation because of their anatomy and composition. We propose a review of the various effects on the eye. The studies are hardly comparable because the exposure systems, power densities and dosimetries are different. While the thermal effects on the eye are well known including cataracts, corneal edema, endothelial cell loss and retinal degeneration, the non-thermal effects are still controversial. Cell cycle abnormalities, early apoptosis were reported in experimental conditions likely due to oxidative stress, but the studies could not show any significant effect on human eyes when exposed to long-term and low-dose radiation. Next studies need to be closer to human exposure.

[Per(6-deoxy) derivative of beta-cyclodextrin (B6): physicochemical characterization, haemolytic activity and membrane properties]. / Caractérisation physicochimique du dérivé amphiphile per(6-déoxy) de la bêta-cyclodextrine (B6) et étude de son activité hémolytique et de son action vis-à-vis des membranes.

Natural beta-cyclodextrin bears an internal crown consisting of six primary alcohol groups. Their removal leads to per(6-deoxy)beta-cyclodextrin (B6). The physicochemical properties of B6 and its interactions with membranes were investigated to give an evaluation of haemolytic activity and complexing properties of this chemical species. This was achieved by using surface tension and haemolytic activity (i.e.DH50 determination, the concentration inducing 50% haemolysis) measurements,1H-31P-NMR and EPR spectroscopies. Whereas B6 solubility in the water is close to that of natural beta CD (about 5 g/L at 20 degrees C) and exhibits amphiphilic properties greater than those of beta CD (log P: -1.36 at 300 K), B6 forms micelles in aqueous solution of 20 molecules, even at low concentration 0.8mM. In addition, B6 exhibits tensioactive properties leading to solubilization and even, in some cases orientation of synthetic membranes. Although no complex formation with membrane components was observed, NMR and ESR showed interactions with the surface of the membrane. Subsequently, B6 exhibits an important haemolytic activity, whose mechanism, different from that of beta CD, is discussed.

Physicochemical properties and membrane interactions of per(6-desoxy-6-halogenated) cyclodextrins.

Per(6-iodo-6-desoxy) cyclodextrins are synthesis intermediates used in the design of the cation chelating per(3,6-anhydro) cyclodextrins. The modifications of the properties of these molecules resulting from the nature of the halogen substituant and also the number of osidic building blocks were investigated by varying both factors, using 1H and 31P-NMR and EPR spectroscopies. These nearly water insoluble molecules exhibits no complexing properties (for both ionic and apolar structures) but can be partially solubilized in micelles of detergent (sodium dodecyl sulfate) and also in phospholipid vesicles. Dipolar connectivity (nOesy) NMR experiments show that they are embedded at the chain level of the micelles/vesicles, without any inclusion complex formation. Changing the number of glucose building blocks (6,7 or 8) or/and the nature of the halogen nuclei at the positions 6 strongly modify cyclodextrin affinities and membrane interactions. For instance the per(6-bromo-6-desoxy)-cyclomaltohexaose (ABR) and -cyclomaltoheptaose (BBR) exhibit a selective affinity for cobalt (apparent Ka of 2500 and 790M(-1), respectively). In terms of interactions with membranes, alpha derivatives induce sterical hindrance at the phosphorus level while destructuring the chains. Other derivatives are located deeper and rigidify the most superficial part of the chain, suppressing the jump in membrane fluidity at transition temperature.

[Which neurophysiologic effects at low level 2.45 GHz RF exposure?]. / Quels effets neurophysiologiques pour un champ électromagnétique de faible puissance à 2,45 GHz?

The LS electromagnetic band (1-4 GHz) is widely used both in domestic and industrial domains. Several studies suggested that the biological systems would exhibit a specific sensitivity to the 2.45 GHz microwaves (water resonance frequency). Potential human health hazards and especially a disruption of the cholinergic system have been reported, due to exposure to microwaves even at low power density. This work presents a multiparametric study of freely moving rat where neurophysiology was investigated during 70 hours using neurochemical (microdialysis technique), electrophysiological, behavioral (vigilance stages quantification) and thermophysiological approaches. The rats were exposed 24 hours to a 2.45 GHz pulsed electromagnetic field at low power density. In this exposure conditions, no significant effect have been reported.

Hexakis (3,6-anhydro)-tetrakis[2(I,II,IV,V)-O-(2-ethoxyethyl)] derivatives of (3,6-anhydro)-alpha-cyclodextrin exhibits novel cation affinities and tensioactive properties on membranes.

The synthesis of hexakis (3,6-anhydro)-tetrakis[2(I,II,IV,V)-O-(2-ethoxyethyl)] cyclomaltohexaose (AEOE) was designed to obtain cation complexing properties. 1H NMR study showed ionic radius dependence of AEOE cation affinity, markedly observed for Cs+ and Rb+. Besides, AEOE was found haemolytic (HC50 = 9 mM) and superficial tension measurements revealed positive tensio active properties. A 31P and 2HNMR study of phospholipid dispersions (dimyristoyl phosphatidyl cholin, DMPC) in the presence of AEOE was performed; it was found that, beside the typical lineshape of phospholipid bilayers, two new NMR lines were detected in the presence of AEOE: (a) an isotropic line consistent with a detergent effect (b) another isotropic resonance of 1 Hz linewidth over phase transition temperature (298 K), indicating a true solubilization. Coupling constant measurements confirmed that the main conformation at the polar head group level was close to that observed in chloroform/methanol solution. It was finally concluded that AEOE could form true solutions of DMPC, similarly to those induced by diethyl ether interactions with membranes, while giving soluble complexes.

Neurophysiologic effects at low level 1.8 GHz radiofrequency field exposure: a multiparametric approach on freely moving rats.

Deleterious effects on healthcare and particularly disruption of the cholinergic system have been reported after exposure to radiofrequency field at low power density. This work presents a 72 hours multiparametric study, where cholinergic system was investigated using a neurochemical, electrophysiological and physiological approaches. Free moving rats were exposed 24 hours to RF GSM signal at 1.8 GHz at low power density (1.2 and 9 W/m(2)). Acetylcholine (ACh) release in the hippocampus was simultaneously monitored using the microdialysis technique, electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram (EMG) and subcutaneous temperature. A spectral analysis of EEG was also performed and sleep stages were determined. After experimental time, the animals were sacrificed and a NMR study was performed on lipid brain extract. No significant parameters modification was observed under RF exposure. The only significant difference was the lack of increase in time spent in REM sleep, the third day, for the 1.2 W/m(2) group. This observation appeared difficult to explain and could not be reasonably related with RF exposure. Similarly, the NMR study also failed to show any effect of RF.

[Biologic effects of millimeteric waves (94 GHz). Are there long term consequences?]. / Effets biologiques des rayonnements millimétriques (94 GHz). Quelles conséquences à long terme ?

Active Denial Systems (ADS) is a millimetric wave radiation emitting technology now included in the non lethal weapon arsenal. Such devices emit electromagnetic, thus agitating water in the skin and causing feeling of heat enough that target individual retreats from the beam. They can be used at up to 1 km from the target. We have reviewed the literature on the interactions of millimetric waves (MMW) with biological systems. An opposition appears between the observations performed in the Former Soviet Union and Russia showing potential interaction sometimes deleterious while generally of good influence and used in therapy. By way of contrast, most of the other studies, performed in USA, address local acute effects, exclusively located on the skin and eyes of the target, and considered as completely reversible.

Hydrolytic properties of per (3,6-anhydro, 2-O-carboxymethyl) alpha cyclodextrin complexes of Ce (III) and Eu (III): application to soman (GD) degradation.

Per (3,6-anhydro-2-O-carboxymethyle) alpha-cyclodextrin ([ACX]) is a polydentate analog of EDTA, a well-known cation chelating reagent. ACX exhibits strong affinities in vitro for uranyl, cobalt and also for lanthanids such as Europium and Cerium. The hydrolytic activities of ACX-Eu and ACX-Ce complex were directly tested on an organophosphorous compound: the neurotoxic Soman (GD), an inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (ACHE from rat brain). It was found a three fold reduction of soman activity when measured in the presence of Ce-ACX complex. Conversely, Eu-ACX effect did not result in soman inhibition variation under physiological conditions. It is suggested that, considering usual organometallic complex of cyclodextrin, such direct complexes would be of interest in the design of pseudo-enzyme systems for phosphoester hydrolysis.

[In vitro uranyle affinity of per (3,6-anhydro-2-O-carboxyméthyle)-alpha-cyclodextrin and conditions required for in vivo application]. / Affinité in vitro de la per (3,6-anhydro-2-O-carboxyméthyle)-alpha-cyclodextrine pour les uranyles et conditions requises en vue d'une application in vivo.

Per (3.6-anhydro-2-O-carboxymethyle)- alpha-cyclodextrin ([1]) is a polydentate analog of EDTA, a well-known cation chelating reagent. [1] exhibits strong affinities in vitro for lanthanids, cobalt and also for uranyl cations. Hence, a 1:1 stoechiometry and a high affinity for uranyle (6

Phospholipid matrix as a target for sulfur mustard (HD): NMR study in model membrane systems.

Although the interactions of sulfur mustard (HD) with nucleic acids and proteins have been well studied, the toxic interactions with the membrane matrix and specially the phospholipid bilayer have so far been poorly investigated. We have used several NMR techniques to study these interactions: 1H NMR to observe the localization of HD in membranes of small unilamellar vesicles (SUV) of lecithin; 31P NMR to verify the hypothesis of pore formation in membranes of large unilamellar vesicles (LUV); and pseudo solid state 31P and 2H NMR to analyze the dynamic consequences of the presence of HD in multilayer dispersions of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC). Immediate and late modifications of the DMPC-HD complexes have been observed at the macroscopic and microscopic levels. After intoxication, HD is spontaneously incorporated into the membrane and locates at the level of the chain methylene groups. This incorporation occurs without formation of pores in the membrane. The presence of HD in the phospholipid dispersion differentially increases the membrane fluidity depending upon the level involved. Weak at the superficial level (phosphate group), this increase is dose-dependent on progression into the membrane. This increase is related to a lowering of transition temperature when measured at the chain level. Macroscopically, HD induces dose- and time-dependent modifications of the DMPC-HD complexes, leading to the formation of an optically transparent gel. This gel formation is confirmed at a microscopic level, where all structures disappear after intoxication.

Effects of exposure to low level radiofrequency fields on acetylcholine release in hippocampus of freely moving rats.

Some central cholinergic effects have been reported in animals after acute exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic field at low intensity. We studied acetylcholine (ACh) release in the brain of freely moving rats exposed for 1 h during the day to a 2.45 GHz continuous wave radiofrequency field (RF) (2 or 4 mW/cm(2)) or exposed for 1 or 14 h during the night to a 800 MHz field modulated at 32 Hz (AM 200 mW/cm(2)). Measurements were performed by microdialysis using a membrane implanted through the upper CA1 region of the hippocampus. After irradiation with the 2.45 GHz RF, rats exposed at 2 mW/cm(2) did not show a significant modification of Ach release, whereas those exposed at 4 mW/cm(2) showed a significant 40% decrease in mean ACh release from hippocampus. This decrease was maximal at 5 h post exposure. Exposure to the 800 MHz RF for 1 h did not cause any significant effect, but exposure for 14 hrs induced a significant 43% decrease in ACh release during the period 11 p.m.-4 a.m. compared to control rats. In the control group we observed an increase of ACh release at the beginning of the night, which was linked to the waking period of rats. This normal increase was disturbed in rats exposed overnight to the 800 MHz RF. This work indicates that neurochemical modification of the hippocampal cholinergic system can be observed during and after an exposure to low intensity RF.

Synthesis of 3-nitrosoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives as potential antiretroviral agents.

Ten 2-aryl or heteroaryl-3-nitrosoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives were synthesised as potential antiretroviral agents. The new compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, and by crystallography for (14). The compounds were devoid of any activity against HIV-1 or HIV-2.

Solution structure of 2-(pyrido[1,2-e]purin-4-yl)amino-ethanol intercalated in the DNA duplex d(CGATCG)2.

The solution structure of the complex formed between d(CGATCG)(2) and 2-(pyrido[1,2-e]purin-4-yl)amino-ethanol, a new antitumor drug under design, has been resolved using NMR spectroscopy and restrained molecular dynamic simulations. The drug molecule intercalates between each of the CpG dinucleotide steps with its side chain lying in the minor groove. Analysis of NMR data establishes a weak stacking interaction between the intercalated ligand and the DNA bases; however, the drug/DNA affinity is enhanced by a hydrogen bond between the hydroxyl group of the end of the intercalant side chain and the amide group of guanine G6. Unrestrained molecular dynamic simulations performed in a water box confirm the stability of the intercalation model. The structure of the intercalated complex enables insight into the structure-activity relationship, allowing rationalization of the design of new antineoplasic agents.

Is uranyl scavenger hexakis(3,6-anhydro) tetrakis(2A,B,D,E-O-octyl) cyclomaltohexaose (OCT) relevant with biosystems?

Hexakis(3,6-anhydro)tetrakis(2A,B,D,E-O-octyl) cyclomatohexaose (OCT) has been recently shown as a powerful cryptant for lead, mercury, and especially for uranyl. As previous results have been obtained in an organic solvent (methanol), a similar evaluation of OCT complex formation was achieved in aqueous medium and in the presence of membrane-mimicking systems such as phospholipid vesicles, liposomes and micelles. It was found that OCT, while completely insoluble in water, forms solid gel structures when in equimolar mixtures of water and methanol. Moreover, OCT exhibits detergent properties. Finally, OCT was successfully introduced in detergent solutions while keeping. Uranyl complexing properties. Possible applications of such models were also discussed.