Asymmetric synthesis of novel N-(1-phenyl-2,3-dihydroxypropyl)arachidonylamides and evaluation of their anti-inflammatory activity.

Aims: To design and synthesize novel N-(1-phenyl-2,3-dihydroxypropyl)arachidonylamides and evaluate their analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential.

Main Methods: The murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 has been widely used as a model for inflammatory responses in vitro.

Veno-right ventricular cannulation reduces recirculation in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Background: Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has several advantages over veno-arterial support for patients with severe reversible respiratory failure. However, recirculation can limit oxygen delivery as pump flow increases. This could be ameliorated by placing the return catheter in the right ventricle instead of the central veins.

N-Amino acid linoleoyl conjugates: anti-inflammatory activities.

Several N-linked amino acid-linoleic acid conjugates were studied for their potential as anti inflammatory agents. The parent molecule, N-linoleoylglycine was tested in an in vivo model, the mouse peritonitis assay where it showed activity in reducing leukocyte migration at doses as low as 0.3mg/kg when administered by mouth in safflower oil.

Resolution of inflammation by N-arachidonoylglycine.

N-arachidonoylglycine (NAgly) is an endogenous signaling lipid that is a member of the eicosanoid super family and is related to anandamide. It shows anti-inflammatory activity in vivo in the mouse peritonitis model where it reduces migration of inflammatory leukocytes following injection of pro-inflammatory agents into the peritoneal cavity. Using cell culture models, including GPR18 transfected HEK-293 cells, evidence is presented that the orphan receptor GPR18 is involved in this action.

Tumor Cell Selective Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis Induction by an Herbal Preparation from Brucea javanica.

The plant Brucea javanica has shown impressive efficacy for treating various diseases including cancer. However, the mechanism by which B. javanica acts is poorly understood.