Naphthoquinones
Vitamin K 3
Plumbaginaceae
Scent Glands
Vitamin K
Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic
Puerto Rico
Soil
Public Health
Questionnaires
Alternative oxidase inhibitors potentiate the activity of atovaquone against Plasmodium falciparum. (1/865)
Recent evidence suggests that the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum utilizes a branched respiratory pathway including both a cytochrome chain and an alternative oxidase. This branched respiratory pathway model has been used as a basis for examining the mechanism of action of two antimalarial agents, atovaquone and proguanil. In polarographic assays, atovaquone immediately reduced the parasite oxygen consumption rate in a concentration-dependent manner. This is consistent with its previously described role as an inhibitor of the cytochrome bc1 complex. Atovaquone maximally inhibited the rate of P. falciparum oxygen consumption by 73% +/- 10%. At all atovaquone concentrations tested, the addition of the alternative oxidase inhibitor, salicylhydroxamic acid, resulted in a further decrease in the rate of parasite oxygen consumption. At the highest concentrations of atovaquone tested, the activities of salicylhydroxamic acid and atovaquone appear to overlap, suggesting that at these concentrations, atovaquone partially inhibits the alternative oxidase as well as the cytochrome chain. Drug interaction studies with atovaquone and salicylhydroxamic acid indicate atovaquone's activity against P. falciparum in vitro is potentiated by this alternative oxidase inhibitor, with a sum fractional inhibitory concentration of 0.6. Propyl gallate, another alternative oxidase inhibitor, also potentiated atovaquone's activity, with a sum fractional inhibitory concentration of 0.7. Proguanil, which potentiates atovaquone activity in vitro and in vivo, had a small effect on parasite oxygen consumption in polarographic assays when used alone or in the presence of atovaquone or salicylhydroxamic acid. This suggests that proguanil does not potentiate atovaquone by direct inhibition of either branch of the parasite respiratory chain. (+info)Biosynthesis of ansatrienin (mycotrienin) and naphthomycin. Identification and analysis of two separate biosynthetic gene clusters in Streptomyces collinus Tu 1892. (2/865)
The polyketide chains of the two ansamycin antibiotics, ansatrienin (mycotrienin) and naphthomycin produced by Streptomyces collinus are assembled using 3-amino-5-hydroxybenzoic acid (AHBA) as a starter unit. The gene encoding AHBA synthase, an enzyme which catalyzes the final step of AHBA biosynthesis in the recently discovered aminoshikimate pathway, has been used to identify two separate antibiotic biosynthetic gene clusters in S. collinus. In one of these clusters, analysis of approximately 20 kb of contiguous sequence has revealed both a cluster of six genes presumed to play a role in the AHBA pathway and the beginning of a polyketide synthase (PKS) gene containing an acyl ACP ligase domain. This domain is likely responsible for loading AHBA onto the PKS. This gene cluster also contains chcA, encoding the enzyme 1-cyclohexenylcarbonyl CoA reductase, which is essential for the biosynthesis of the cyclohexanecarboxylic acid moiety of ansatrienin from shikimic acid, and a peptide synthetase. This gene cluster thus seems to control the biosynthesis of ansatrienin, which contains a side chain of N-cyclohexanecarbonyl-d-alanine esterified to the macrocyclic lactam backbone. In the putative naphthomycin biosynthetic gene cluster approximately 13 kb of contiguous sequence has revealed a second set of the genes required for AHBA biosynthesis. In addition the end of a polyketide synthase and a gene putatively involved in termination of the chain extension process, formation of an intramolecular amide bond between the AHBA nitrogen and the carboxyl group of the fully extended polyketide chain, have been identified. Thus, despite commonality in biosynthesis, the ansatrienin and naphthomycin biosynthetic gene clusters show clear organizational differences and carry separate sets of genes for AHBA biosynthesis. (+info)Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase by beta-lapachone in rat alveolar macrophages and aorta. (3/865)
Beta-lapachone, a plant product, has been shown to be a novel inhibitor of DNA topoisomerase. In this study, we performed experiments to examine the effects of beta-lapachone on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) in rat alveolar macrophages and aortic rings. In alveolar macrophages, incubation with LPS (10 microg ml(-1)) for various time intervals resulted in a significant increase in nitrite production and iNOS protein synthesis, that was inhibited by coincubation with beta-lapachone (1-4.5 microM) without any cytotoxic effects. However, addition of beta-lapachone after induction of NO synthase by LPS failed to affect the nitrite production. Treatment with LPS (10 microg ml(-1)) for 6 h resulted in significant expression of mRNA for iNOS which was significantly inhibited in the presence of beta-lapachone (3 microM) in alveolar macrophages. In endothelium-intact rings of thoracic aorta, beta-lapachone (1 and 3 microM) markedly inhibited the hypocontractility to phenylephrine in aortic rings treated with LPS (10 microg ml(-1)) for 4 h. When beta-lapachone was added 3 h after LPS into the medium, the contractions evoked by phenylephrine were not significantly different in the presence or absence of beta-lapachone. Treatment with LPS (10 microg ml(-1)) for 4 h resulted in a significant increase in iNOS protein synthesis which was inhibited in the presence of beta-lapachone (3 microM), but did not affect the constitutive (endothelial and neuronal) NOS forms in aortic rings. These results indicate that beta-lapachone is capable of inhibiting expression and function of iNOS in rat alveolar macrophages and aortic rings. It is considered that beta-lapachone can be developed as a potential anti-inflammatory agent in the future. (+info)Atovaquone-proguanil compared with chloroquine and chloroquine-sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine for treatment of acute Plasmodium falciparum malaria in the Philippines. (4/865)
This randomized, open-label clinical trial compared a fixed-dose combination of atovaquone and proguanil (n=55) with chloroquine (n=23) or a combination of chloroquine, sulfadoxine, and pyrimethamine (n=32) for treatment of acute falciparum malaria in the Philippines. Patients were hospitalized for 28 days to ensure medication compliance and prevent reinfection. Atovaquone-proguanil produced a significantly higher cure rate (100%) compared with that for chloroquine (30.4%; P<.0001) or chloroquine-sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (87.5%; P<.05). Treatments did not differ significantly with respect to parasite clearance time (mean: 46.7 h for atovaquone-proguanil, 60.0 h for chloroquine, and 42.8 h for chloroquine-sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine) or fever clearance time (mean, 38.8, 46.8, and 34.5 h, respectively). Adverse events were typical of malaria symptoms; the most frequently reported events were vomiting (18% for atovaquone-proguanil, 17% for chloroquine, and 9% for chloroquine-sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine), abdominal pain (15%, 17%, and 3%, respectively), anorexia (11%, 13%, and 0%, respectively), and headache (6%, 17%, and 3%, respectively). Atovaquone-proguanil was well tolerated and more effective than chloroquine or chloroquine-sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine for treatment of multidrug-resistant falciparum malaria in the Philippines. (+info)Prophylactic activity of atovaquone against Plasmodium falciparum in humans. (5/865)
The prophylactic antimalarial activity of atovaquone was determined in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of healthy volunteers who were challenged by the bite of Plasmodium falciparum-infected Anopheles stephensi. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: six received seven daily doses of 750 mg of atovaquone, starting the day before challenge; six received a single dose of 250 mg of atovaquone the day before challenge; and four received placebo. Polymerase chain reaction- and culture-confirmed parasitemia developed in all four placebo recipients, but in none of the drug recipients, indicating that either of the atovaquone regimens provides effective prophylaxis (P = 0.005). However, in low-dose recipients, the drug levels by day 6.5 were profoundly subtherapeutic, indicating that parasites were eliminated prior to the establishment of erythrocytic infection. Atovaquone thus protects non-immune subjects against mosquito-transmitted falciparum malaria, and has causal prophylactic activity. (+info)Novel naphthoquinones from a Streptomyces sp. (6/865)
Cdc25A assay-guided fractionation of a fermentation broth derived from a Streptomyces sp. resulted in the isolation of four novel naphthoquinones 1-4. Structures of these compounds were deduced by NMR and mass spectrometry. Two of them, 3 and 4, incorporate a modified cysteine residue which is observed for the first time in this class of natural products. Naphthoquinones 1-4 showed weak activity against cdc25A phosphatase. (+info)Gilvusmycin, a new antitumor antibiotic related to CC-1065. (7/865)
A new antitumor antibiotic gilvusmycin was isolated from the culture broth of Streptomyces sp. QM16. The structure of gilvusmycin was related to CC-1065 and determined by NMR spectral analysis. Gilvusmycin exhibited antitumor activity against murine leukemia P388 in vivo. (+info)Lactonamycin, a new antimicrobial antibiotic produced by Streptomyces rishiriensis MJ773-88K4. I. Taxonomy, fermentation, isolation, physico-chemical properties and biological activities. (8/865)
Lactonamycin (1) was isolated from a culture broth of Streptomyces rishiriensis MJ773-88K4. Antibiotic 1 exhibited antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive bacteria including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE). (+info)Naphthoquinones are a type of organic compound that consists of a naphthalene ring (two benzene rings fused together) with two ketone functional groups (=O) at the 1 and 2 positions. They exist in several forms, including natural and synthetic compounds. Some well-known naphthoquinones include vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone), which are important for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Other naphthoquinones have been studied for their potential medicinal properties, including anticancer, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, some naphthoquinones can also be toxic or harmful to living organisms, so they must be used with caution.
Vitamin K3 is not typically referred to as a medical definition, but it is a form of Vitamin K. Medically, Vitamins K are coagulation factors that play a crucial role in blood clotting. Specifically, Vitamin K3 is known as Menadione and it is a synthetic version of Vitamin K. Unlike other forms of Vitamin K (K1 and K2), which are found naturally in foods like leafy green vegetables and fermented products, Vitamin K3 is not found in food and must be synthetically produced in a laboratory. It is used in some dietary supplements and animal feed additives. However, the use of Vitamin K3 in human nutrition is limited due to its potential toxicity, especially when given in large doses or to infants.
Arachnida is a class of joint-legged invertebrate animals that includes spiders, scorpions, mites, and ticks. They are characterized by having two main body segments (the cephalothorax and the abdomen), eight legs, and simple eyes. Most arachnids produce silk, which they use for various purposes such as capturing prey or building shelters.
Arachnids are arthropods, a group that also includes insects, crustaceans, and other related animals. They are found worldwide in diverse habitats, ranging from forests and grasslands to deserts and caves. Many arachnids are predators, feeding on insects and other small animals. Some species are parasites, living on the blood or tissue of other organisms.
Arachnids have a hard exoskeleton made of chitin, which provides protection and support for their soft internal organs. They molt periodically to grow and replace damaged body parts. Arachnids also have a complex reproductive system that involves the transfer of sperm from the male to the female through specialized structures called pedipalps.
While some arachnids are harmless or even beneficial to humans, others can be dangerous or pests. For example, spider bites can cause painful reactions and in rare cases, death. Ticks and mites can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and scrub typhus. Scorpions can deliver venomous stings that can be fatal to humans. Despite these risks, arachnids play important roles in ecosystems, controlling pests and contributing to nutrient cycling.
"Tabebuia" is a term that refers to a genus of trees and shrubs, primarily found in tropical regions of the Americas. While it is a common name in botany, it is not a medical term. The bark and wood of some species have been used in traditional medicine, but there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness or safety.
The bark has been used to treat various conditions such as fever, inflammation, and skin diseases. The wood has been used for making tools, furniture, and musical instruments. However, it's important to note that the use of these plants in traditional medicine does not equate to proven medical efficacy or safety.
Therefore, if you're considering using a Tabebuia species for medicinal purposes, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider first due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
Plumbaginaceae is not a medical term, but a taxonomic category in botany. It refers to the family of flowering plants known as the leadworts or pinks, which includes around 850-900 species. Some members of this family contain the naphthoquinone compound plumbagin, which has been studied for its potential medicinal properties. However, Plumbaginaceae itself is not a medical term or concept.
Scent glands are specialized sebaceous (oil) or sudoriferous (sweat) glands in various animals that produce and release scents for different purposes, such as marking territory, attracting mates, or providing warning signals. These scents can be released through various methods, including rubbing, spraying, or secreting onto fur or skin. Examples of scent glands include the anal glands in dogs and cats, the musk glands in deer, and the civet gland in civets. In humans, scent glands are not as developed or specialized, but some sebaceous glands can produce scents associated with personal body odor.
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone metabolism. It is essential for the production of several proteins involved in blood clotting, including factor II (prothrombin), factor VII, factor IX, and factor X. Additionally, Vitamin K is necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a protein that contributes to bone health by regulating the deposition of calcium in bones.
There are two main forms of Vitamin K: Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), which is found primarily in green leafy vegetables and some vegetable oils, and Vitamin K2 (menaquinones), which is produced by bacteria in the intestines and is also found in some fermented foods.
Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding disorders such as hemorrhage and excessive bruising. While Vitamin K deficiency is rare in adults, it can occur in newborns who have not yet developed sufficient levels of the vitamin. Therefore, newborns are often given a Vitamin K injection shortly after birth to prevent bleeding problems.
Antineoplastic agents, phytogenic, also known as plant-derived anticancer drugs, are medications that are derived from plants and used to treat cancer. These agents have natural origins and work by interfering with the growth and multiplication of cancer cells, helping to slow or stop the spread of the disease. Some examples of antineoplastic agents, phytogenic include paclitaxel (Taxol), vincristine, vinblastine, and etoposide. These drugs are often used in combination with other treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, and other medications to provide a comprehensive approach to cancer care.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Puerto Rico" is not a medical term. It is a territorial possession of the United States, located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. It includes the main island of Puerto Rico and various smaller islands. If you have any questions about a medical topic, please provide more details so I can try to help answer your question.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "soil" is not a term that has a medical definition. Soil is defined as the top layer of earth in which plants grow, a mixture of organic material, clay, sand, and silt. If you have any questions related to medicine or health, I would be happy to try to help answer them for you.
I believe there may be some confusion in your question as "translations" is not a term that has a specific medical definition. However, if you are referring to the process of "translation" in the context of medicine and biomedical research, it refers to the process of converting scientific findings or medical information from one language to another, while maintaining accuracy, clarity, and the original meaning. This is particularly important in the field of international clinical trials, medical publications, and cross-cultural healthcare communication.
If you meant something different by 'translations', please provide more context so I can give a more accurate response.
Public health is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as "the art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting human health through organized efforts of society." It focuses on improving the health and well-being of entire communities, populations, and societies, rather than individual patients. This is achieved through various strategies, including education, prevention, surveillance of diseases, and promotion of healthy behaviors and environments. Public health also addresses broader determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, housing, food, and income, which have a significant impact on the overall health of populations.
In the context of medicine, "translating" often refers to the process of turning basic scientific discoveries into clinical applications that can directly benefit patients. This is also known as "translational research." It involves taking findings from laboratory studies and experiments, and finding ways to use that knowledge in the development of new diagnostic tools, treatments, or medical practices.
The goal of translation is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and clinical practice, making sure that new advances in medicine are both safe and effective for patients. This process can be complex and challenging, as it requires collaboration between researchers, clinicians, regulatory agencies, and industry partners. It also involves rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that any new treatments or interventions are both safe and effective.
A questionnaire in the medical context is a standardized, systematic, and structured tool used to gather information from individuals regarding their symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, or other health-related factors. It typically consists of a series of written questions that can be either self-administered or administered by an interviewer. Questionnaires are widely used in various areas of healthcare, including clinical research, epidemiological studies, patient care, and health services evaluation to collect data that can inform diagnosis, treatment planning, and population health management. They provide a consistent and organized method for obtaining information from large groups or individual patients, helping to ensure accurate and comprehensive data collection while minimizing bias and variability in the information gathered.
Hispanic Americans, also known as Latino Americans, are individuals in the United States who are of Spanish-speaking origin or whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, Cuba, the Caribbean, Central and South America. This group includes various cultures, races, and nationalities. It is important to note that "Hispanic" refers to a cultural and linguistic affiliation rather than a racial category. Therefore, Hispanic Americans can be of any race, including White, Black, Asian, Native American, or mixed races.