4-Aza Cyclopentenone Prostaglandin Analogues: Synthesis and NF-κB Inhibitory Activities.

Inspired by the cyclopentenone family of prostaglandins, a series of 4-aza, cross-conjugated cyclopentenones is described. Synthesised from N-protected (4R)-aza-cyclopentenone 5, the exocyclic alkene was installed using a modified Baylis-Hillman type aldol reaction, whereby carbon-carbon bond formation is accompanied by dehydration. In this manner octanal and octenal, for example, can be introduced to mimic the ω-group present in the natural prostaglandins.

Zinc-Binding Oligonucleotide Backbone Modifications for Targeting a DNA-Processing Metalloenzyme.

A series of chemically-modified oligonucleotides for targeting the DNA repair nuclease SNM1A have been designed and synthesised. Each oligonucleotide contains a modified internucleotide linkage designed to both mimic the native phosphodiester backbone and chelate to the catalytic zinc ion(s) in the SNM1A active site. Dinucleoside phosphoramidites containing urea, squaramide, sulfanylacetamide, and sulfinylacetamide linkages were prepared and employed successfully in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis.

Cell Line and Media Composition Influence the Production of Giant Plasma Membrane Vesicles.

Giant plasma membrane vesicles (GPMVs) have been utilized as a model to study phase separation in the plasma membrane. Additionally, GPMVs have been employed as vehicle for delivering molecular cargo, including small molecule drugs and nanoparticles. Nearly all examples of GPMV production use a defined salt buffer that is a stark contrast to typical cell culture medium.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Dyes in Wastewater Using Solar Enhanced Nickel Oxide (NiO) Nanocatalysts Prepared by Chemical Methods.

This study examined the surface morphology and photocatalytic activity of nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles prepared through a chemical method. The synthesized nanoparticle was characterized by using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Photocatalytic degradation of hazardous Eriochrome Black T (EBT) was carried out using the synthesized nanoparticle and the efficiency of the NiO used was determined.