A "plug-and-play" approach to the preparation of transparent luminescent hybrid materials based on poly(methyl methacrylate), a calix[4]arene cross-linking agent, and terbium ions.

A novel methodology to prepare transparent luminescent hybrid materials is reported. Using a calixarene ionophore as a PMMA cross-linker avoids problems, such as phase segregation, and produces a polymer monolith that can be loaded with the metal ion required for luminescence post-synthesis. This approach is versatile and will simplify the production of such materials.

Reduction of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia by the selective metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 antagonist 3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]pyridine in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-lesioned macaque model of Parkinson's disease.

Long-term motor complications of dopamine replacement, such as L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia (LID) and reduced quality of L-DOPA action, remain obstacles in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Dysfunctional glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems have been observed in both the untreated parkinsonian and dyskinetic states and represent novel targets for treatment. Here, we assess the pharmacokinetic profile and corresponding pharmacodynamic effects on behavior of the orally active, selective metabotropic glutamate receptor type 5 (mGlu5) antagonist, 3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]pyridine (MTEP) (as the hydrochloride salt) in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned macaque.

Use of pifithrin to inhibit p53-mediated signalling of TNF in dystrophic muscles of mdx mice.

Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF) plays a major role in exacerbating necrosis of dystrophic muscle; however, the precise molecular mechanism underlying this effect of TNF is unknown. This study investigates the role that p53 plays in TNF-mediated necrosis of dystrophic myofibres by inhibiting p53 using pifithrin-alpha and three pifithrin-beta analogues. Tissue culture studies using C2C12 myoblasts established that pifithrin-alpha was toxic to differentiating myoblasts at concentrations greater than 10 muM.

Physical and crystallographic characterisation of the mGlu5 antagonist MTEP and its monohydrochloride.

An improved medium scale synthesis of 3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]pyridine (MTEP), a selective and potent metabotropic glutamate subtype 5 (mGlu5) antagonist, has allowed thorough characterisation of the crystal structures of the free base and the previously unreported hydrochloride (MTEP.HCl). Hirshfeld surface analysis has revealed that molecules in crystalline MTEP are weakly polar, and aggregate through nonclassical C--H.

Proline-functionalised calix[4]arene: an anion-triggered hydrogelator.

A water-soluble, chiral calix[4]arene has been found to form hydrogels when triggered by the presence of specific anions, with efficacy linked to the Hofmeister series; the gel properties are modified by the associated cations, and gelation can be reversibly switched off by increasing pH.

Analysis of trimethyl carboxyphosphate by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Analysis of trimethyl carboxyphosphate samples by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, using typical conditions resulted in significant decomposition of the analyte. Optimization of injection conditions, including conditioning of the injection port liner, produced a dramatic increase in observed peak areas and afforded an effective method for detection of trimethyl carboxyphosphate at the <1 microg mL(-1) level.

Insights into the mechanism and regulation of pyruvate carboxylase by characterisation of a biotin-deficient mutant of the Bacillus thermodenitrificans enzyme.

Pyruvate carboxylase is a biotin-dependent enzyme in which the biotin is carboxylated by a putative carboxyphosphate intermediate that is formed in a reaction between ATP and bicarbonate. The resultant carboxybiotin then transfers its carboxyl group to pyruvate to form oxaloacetate. In the Bacillus thermodenitrificans enzyme the biotin is covalently attached to K1112.