Effect of Bulky -Dibenzofuranylmethyl Substitution on the 5-HT Receptor Affinity and Efficacy of a Psychedelic Phenethylamine.

The introduction of arylmethyl substituents on the amine nitrogen atom of phenethylamines and tryptamines often results in profound increases in their affinity and functional activity at 5-HT serotonin receptors. To probe the sensitivity of this effect to substantially larger -substituents, ten derivatives of the well-characterized psychedelic phenethylamine 2C-B were prepared by appending different dibenzo[,]furylmethyl (DBFM) moieties to the basic nitrogen. The DBFM group attached to the amino group through its 1-, -2-, or 3-position decreased affinity and agonist activity at the 5-HT receptors.

Oral administration of piperine for the control of aflatoxin intoxication in rats.

Aflatoxins are mycotoxins that have important toxic effects on human and animal health, even if consumed at low doses. The oral administration of piperine (1.12 mg/kg) during 23 days in rats seemingly interfered with the toxicity of aflatoxins, decreasing hepatic injuries and the leukocyte depletion in experimentally intoxicated animals.