Journal Description
Drugs and Drug Candidates
Drugs and Drug Candidates
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on drug discovery, development, and knowledge, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Drugs and Drug Candidates is a companion journal of Pharmaceuticals.
- Journal Clusters-Pharmaceutical Science: Scientia Pharmaceutica, Marine Drugs, Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacy, Future Pharmacology, Pharmacoepidemiology, Drugs and Drug Candidates and Journal of Pharmaceutical and BioTech Industry.
Latest Articles
Correction: Demesa-Castañeda et al. Searching for New Antibacterial Compounds Against Staphylococcus aureus: A Computational Study on the Binding Between FtsZ and FtsA. Drugs Drug Candidates 2024, 3, 751–773
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5020029 - 24 Apr 2026
Abstract
In the published version of this article [...]
Full article
Open AccessReview
Use of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy to Inactivate Multidrug-Resistant Enterobacter spp.: Scoping Review
by
Angélica R. Bravo, Matías F. Cuevas and Christian Erick Palavecino
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5020028 - 22 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacter spp. are critical pathogens within the ESKAPE group, frequently exhibiting resistance to carbapenems. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) represents a promising non-antibiotic strategy to circumvent these resistance mechanisms. This scoping review aims to map the current evidence regarding the efficacy
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Background/Objectives: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacter spp. are critical pathogens within the ESKAPE group, frequently exhibiting resistance to carbapenems. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) represents a promising non-antibiotic strategy to circumvent these resistance mechanisms. This scoping review aims to map the current evidence regarding the efficacy of aPDT in inactivating Enterobacter spp., identifying the most effective photosensitizers (PS), light parameters, and existing research gaps. Methods: A systematic search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2013–2025) following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and registered on OSF. Studies were included if they evaluated aPDT against Enterobacter spp. (in vitro or in vivo) and provided quantitative data on microbial reduction. Data was extracted using a standardized charting form covering bacterial strains, PS type, light source, and viability reduction. The results from the eligible sources of evidence were synthesized narratively to address the review objectives. Results: Despite the clinical priority of Enterobacter, only seven studies met the eligibility criteria. Methylene Blue remains the most frequently studied PS, achieving reductions of 3–8 log10. Emerging evidence highlights the synergistic efficacy of monocationic chlorins and graphene-based nanomaterials in enhancing the bactericidal effect of light-based treatments. Notably, aPDT demonstrated the ability to inactivate carbapenemases, the bacterial enzymes responsible for carbapenem resistance. However, only two studies evaluated in vivo applications, primarily within dental settings. Conclusions: aPDT is a promising method against MDR Enterobacter spp. and bypasses traditional resistance mechanisms. However, the limited number of studies indicates a significant knowledge gap. Future research should focus on standardized in vivo protocols and the synergy between aPDT and conventional antibiotics to support clinical translation.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biologics)
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A Classic Citrus Monoterpene Revisited: Protective Effects of D-Limonene on Hepatic and Aortic Vascular Dysfunctions in Type 1 Diabetic Rats
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Leonardo da Rocha Sousa, Nildomar Ribeiro Viana, Renato Sampaio Mello Neto, José Otávio Carvalho Sena de Almeida, José Vinícius de Sousa França, Emerson Iuri Rodrigues Queiroz, Esmeralda Maria Lustosa Barros, Ana Karolinne da Silva Brito, Ana Victória da Silva Mendes, Andressa Amorim dos Santos, Fernanda Cerqueira Barroso Oliveira, Débora Santos Lula Barros, Massimo Lucarini, Alessandra Durazzo, Maria do Carmo de Carvalho e Martins and Daniel Dias Rufino Arcanjo
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5020027 - 22 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disturbance characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, which stems from defective secretion and/or action of insulin. D-Limonene has been studied for the confirmation of its antidiabetic and antioxidant effects. This paper aims to investigate the antidiabetic and antioxidants effects
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Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disturbance characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, which stems from defective secretion and/or action of insulin. D-Limonene has been studied for the confirmation of its antidiabetic and antioxidant effects. This paper aims to investigate the antidiabetic and antioxidants effects of D-Limonene in an experimental model of DM1. Methods: Female Wistar rats (180–250g) received streptozotocin (STZ, 45 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. Animals with capillary glycemia ≥ 250 mg/dL were considered diabetic. D-Limonene at oral doses of 12.5 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg was administered during 28-day treatment. Water and food intake, weight gain and capillary glycemia were evaluated. At the end of the treatment, the following biochemical parameters were assessed: serum glucose, HbA1c, urea, creatinine, AST, ALT, GGT, ALP and albumin. The oxidative stress markers were determined in plasma, erythrocytes, and aortic homogenates: malondialdehyde, nitrite, myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase. Results: D-Limonene (25 and 50 mg/kg) significantly reduced serum glucose, HbA1c, AST, ALT, GGT and ALP when compared to DC, as well as plasma MDA and nitrite concentrations. Interestingly, D-Limonene (25 and 50 mg/kg) decreased both plasma and aortic myeloperoxidase activities, as well as increased both erythrocytic and aortic catalase activities. Conclusions: These findings, besides a marked D-Limonene-induced hypoglycemic effect, pave the way for further studies comprising a multi-target treatment by providing benefits on hepatic and vascular complications related to the diabetic condition.
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(This article belongs to the Section Preclinical Research)
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Cannabidiol Prevents Ovariectomy-Induced Thermoregulatory Dysfunction in Rats: A Preclinical Study on Menopausal Vasomotor Symptoms
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Vitória Leite Lages, Lourdes Fernanda Godinho, Alayanne Santos Guieiro, Thais Trindade, Bruna Oliveira Costa, Joyce Mirlene Moreira Costa, Ramona Ramalho de Souza Pereira, Caíque Olegário Diniz e Magalhães and Kinulpe Honorato-Sampaio
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5020026 - 18 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes) affect 70–80% of menopausal women, significantly impairing quality of life. Current treatments include hormone therapy, which is contraindicated for many patients, and non-hormonal alternatives with limited efficacy or adverse effects. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, has emerged as
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Background/Objectives: Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes) affect 70–80% of menopausal women, significantly impairing quality of life. Current treatments include hormone therapy, which is contraindicated for many patients, and non-hormonal alternatives with limited efficacy or adverse effects. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, has emerged as a potential therapeutic candidate due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. This study aimed to investigate whether a standardized Cannabis sativa extract containing isolated CBD attenuates heat dissipation in ovariectomized rats, a preclinical model of estrogen deficiency. Methods: Female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to sham-operated vehicle-treated (SHAM-V), ovariectomized vehicle-treated (OVX-V), or ovariectomized CBD-treated (OVX-CBD; 10 mg/kg/day, oral gavage) groups. Treatment began on postoperative day 2 and continued for 21 days. Tail-skin temperature, a surrogate marker of heat dissipation, was assessed by infrared thermography on day 14. Energy metabolism was evaluated by indirect calorimetry on day 21. Uterine weight was measured as a biomarker of estrogen depletion. Results: Ovariectomy significantly increased tail temperature compared to SHAM-V. CBD treatment completely prevented this effect, with OVX-CBD animals exhibiting thermographic profiles similar to SHAM-V. Uterine atrophy was not reversed by CBD. No differences in the calorimetry parameter were observed among groups. Conclusions: This study provides novel preclinical evidence that cannabidiol attenuates ovariectomy-induced heat dissipation in rats, without detectable effects on uterine weight or metabolic parameters. These findings suggest that CBD may represent a potential non-hormonal approach for the management of menopausal vasomotor symptoms; however, further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to determine its translational and clinical relevance.
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(This article belongs to the Section Drug Candidates from Natural Sources)
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Open AccessReview
Notes on the Physiopathology of the Kinin-Mediated Angioedema Associated with Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibition
by
François Marceau
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5020025 - 17 Apr 2026
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (ACEis) are one of the most successful drug classes for the treatment of hypertension and the prevention of its cardiovascular complications. ACE activates the pressor hormone angiotensin but also inactivates the vasodilator peptide bradykinin (BK). A rare side effect
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (ACEis) are one of the most successful drug classes for the treatment of hypertension and the prevention of its cardiovascular complications. ACE activates the pressor hormone angiotensin but also inactivates the vasodilator peptide bradykinin (BK). A rare side effect of ACEis, angioedema (AE), has been proposed to result from pro-inflammatory effects of BK. Novel considerations are offered in this debate: (1) the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist icatibant has had an inconsistent effect on ACEi-associated AE, but its potency and duration of action are much inferior to those of a novel nonpeptide antagonist of this receptor, deucrictibant. (2) Tissue kallikrein (KLK-1) is an effective kininogenase, particularly abundant in the salivary glands, possibly related to orofacial presentation of ACEi-induced AE. (3) The strongly regulated human kinin B1 receptor, optimally responsive to Lys-des-Arg9-BK, is functionally compartmentalized with KLK-1 which produces Lys-BK from kininogens. Chronic treatment with ACEi drugs in laboratory animals induces the expression of vascular B1R that mediates vasodilation. Therefore, ACEi-AE may be largely or completely initiated by KLK-1. Inhibitors of this protease or combined antagonists of both kinin receptor subtypes may be useful for the management of this condition.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Protease and Peptidase Inhibitors)
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Structural Insights into the Redox Potential of Curcumin Derivatives in Litopenaeus vannamei
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Damião Sampaio de Sousa, João Miguel Lopes de Melo Lima, Carminda Sandra Brito Salmito-Vanderley and Emmanuel Silva Marinho
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5020024 - 7 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Curcumin derivatives have attracted interest due to their redox-modulating properties and potential applications in aquatic organisms, yet their molecular interactions and environmental safety remain insufficiently characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the redox-related molecular behavior and ecotoxicological profile of curcumin derivatives,
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Background/Objectives: Curcumin derivatives have attracted interest due to their redox-modulating properties and potential applications in aquatic organisms, yet their molecular interactions and environmental safety remain insufficiently characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the redox-related molecular behavior and ecotoxicological profile of curcumin derivatives, with emphasis on their interaction with glutathione S-transferase from L. vannamei. Methods: Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed to assess binding stability and interaction patterns between the derivatives and LvGSTmu. In parallel, computational predictions were used to estimate environmental persistence, bioaccumulation (BCF/BAF), and acute and chronic aquatic toxicity across multiple trophic levels. Results: Docking and dynamics analyses indicated stable ligand–protein interactions, particularly for CURNO, which showed favorable binding behavior without destabilizing the protein structure. Ecotoxicological predictions suggested low bioaccumulation potential and limited persistence for most derivatives, with CURH and CURNO showing higher sediment persistence. Toxicity responses varied by organism and exposure time but did not differ significantly among derivatives relative to curcumin. Conclusions: The derivatives retained redox-related molecular features while presenting an overall acceptable predicted environmental profile. CURNO emerged as a promising candidate, although its environmental behavior supports the need for further monitoring and experimental validation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Drug Candidates: Mechanistic and Computational Insights into Free Radical Scavenging and Redox Modulation)
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Adjuvant Activity and Resistance-Modifying Capacity of a Novel Heterocyclic Hydrazone Derived from the Drug Hydralazine in NorA and MepA Efflux Pumps of Staphylococcus aureus
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Milena Oliveira Andrade Moreira, Karla Susanna Tavares Grangeiro Belém, Janaina Esmeraldo Rocha, Davi Ramalho Furtado, Gildenia Alves de Araújo, Ana Joyce Morais Bento, Jessica Bezerra Maciel, Jesyka Macêdo Guedes, Jaiza Maria Lima Dias, Henrique Douglas Melo Coutinho, Francisco das Chagas Lima Pinto, Emmanuel Silva Marinho, Marcia Machado Marinho, Alexandre Magno Rodrigues Teixeira, Walter José Peláez and Hélcio S. dos Santos
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010023 - 12 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hydrazones are organic compounds with the general structure R2C=NNHR1, distinguished by their versatility and modifiability, and are widely used in various applications due to their physicochemical and biological properties. They exhibit anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibiofilm, and antibacterial activities. Antibiotic-resistant
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Background/Objectives: Hydrazones are organic compounds with the general structure R2C=NNHR1, distinguished by their versatility and modifiability, and are widely used in various applications due to their physicochemical and biological properties. They exhibit anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibiofilm, and antibacterial activities. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a serious public health threat, employing mechanisms such as enzymatic inactivation and efflux pumps. This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of the hydrazone HDZH1,4BENZ, a hydralazine-derived compound, as well as its potential adjuvant effect in combination with antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus strains expressing efflux pumps. Methods: The strains used were 1199B (NorA efflux pump-expressing) and K2068 (MepA efflux pump-expressing). All assays were conducted using the broth microdilution method in Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) medium. Initially, the intrinsic antibacterial activity of the compound was determined. Subsequently, modulation assays were performed to evaluate its potential effect on efflux pump activity, with a standard efflux pump inhibitor included as a positive control. Results: Although HDZH1,4BENZ did not demonstrate significant direct antibacterial activity, the results indicate that this hydrazone exerts a notable inhibitory effect on the NorA (Norfloxacin resistance efflux pump A) and MepA (Multidrug efflux protein A) efflux pumps in S. aureus, thereby enhancing the efficacy of antibacterial agents. Conclusions: The activity of the hydrazone was comparable to that of chlorpromazine, suggesting that it may represent a promising alternative in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Heterocycles in Drug Discovery)
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Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles: Influence of Reaction Parameters on Physicochemical, Morphological, and Biological Properties
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Tainá Pereira da Silva Oliveira, Alan Kelbis Oliveira Lima, Talita Pereira Gonçalves, Isadora Florêncio, Sônia Nair Báo, Namuhell Oliveira da Silva, Patrícia Albuquerque, Ildinete Silva-Pereira and Luís Alexandre Muehlmann
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010022 - 8 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Optimizing synthesis parameters is essential to ensure the quality and stability of nanostructures. This study aimed to optimize the synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by chemical reduction, using sodium selenite (Na2SeO3), ascorbic acid (AA), and polyvinyl alcohol
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Background/Objectives: Optimizing synthesis parameters is essential to ensure the quality and stability of nanostructures. This study aimed to optimize the synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by chemical reduction, using sodium selenite (Na2SeO3), ascorbic acid (AA), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) at different concentrations, volumes, and molar ratios. The effects of reduction time, purification steps, and variations in the concentration of the precursor and reducing agent, as well as in the volume of the stabilizer, on the characteristics of SeNPs were investigated to ensure their long-term stability, maintenance of their properties, and biological applicability. Methods: The SeNPs were analyzed by UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and were also evaluated for antifungal activity against the SC5314 strain of Candida albicans. Results/Conclusions: Monodisperse SeNPs were obtained under high concentrations of Na2SeO3 and AA, short reduction time, higher volumes of PVA (2–4 mL), and purification at 24.300× g, presenting a spherical morphology, hydrodynamic diameter of 137.0–171.7 nm, dry diameter of 20–120 nm, polydispersity index of 0.049–0.306, Zeta potential of −7.79 to −19.6 mV, and stability for up to 180 days. In the absence or presence of 1 mL of PVA, the SeNPs were predominantly amorphous. Regarding biological activity, the SeNPs did not exhibit antifungal activity under the experimental conditions in the tested strain. Together, this study provides a comprehensive update on the synthesis of SeNPs under different conditions and their stability over time, contributing to the consolidation of knowledge in the field.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Bioinorganic Chemistry in Drug Discovery)
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Open AccessReview
Alzheimer’s Disease and Contemporary Therapeutic Approaches: Recent Advances in Natural Products
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Ertugrul Gunday and Fatma Sezer Senol Deniz
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010021 - 4 Mar 2026
Cited by 1
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, and its global prevalence is expected to increase substantially in the coming decades. This review examines current therapeutic approaches and explores the potential role of medicinal plants and natural products in the
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Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, and its global prevalence is expected to increase substantially in the coming decades. This review examines current therapeutic approaches and explores the potential role of medicinal plants and natural products in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. This review examines the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease, with particular emphasis on the cholinergic, amyloid, and tau hypotheses. It evaluates currently approved therapeutic approaches, including cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists, as well as emerging immunotherapies. In addition, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacological properties of various medicinal plants and explores innovative drug delivery systems. Research reveals that while conventional drugs like donepezil and memantine provide symptomatic relief, they do not halt disease progression. Recent immunotherapies, including lecanemab and donanemab, show potential to reduce amyloid-beta accumulation and slow cognitive decline; however, they face safety concerns, such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, and high costs. By comparison, several natural products—including huperzine A, curcumin, resveratrol, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate—demonstrate multi-target therapeutic potential through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cholinergic-modulating mechanisms. This review offers a comprehensive contrast between natural products and traditional drugs as well as the safety and economic limitations of immunotherapies. Given the multifactorial nature of AD, therapeutic strategies that address multiple pathological pathways appear necessary. In this regard, plant-derived compounds, due to their broad pharmacological activity and generally favorable safety profiles, emerge as promising candidates for long-term management and may contribute meaningfully to the development of future therapeutic approaches for AD.
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(This article belongs to the Section Drug Candidates from Natural Sources)
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Dehydrodieugenol Neolignans as Multitarget Anti-Inflammatory Agents: sPLA2 Inhibition and Therapeutic Implications
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Adeilso B. Santos Junior, Caroline R. C. Costa, João H. G. Lago, Airam Roggero, Igor N. Oliveira, Danilo R. S. Lima, Paloma P. Borges, Willian H. B. C. Santos, Marcos A. Oliveira, Sérgio F. Sousa and Marcos H. Toyama
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010020 - 3 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The study investigated the anti-inflammatory potential of neolignan derivatives of dehydrodieugenol (CP1–CP5), focusing on the inhibition of secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2), a key enzyme in inflammation. Methods: Comprehensive quantitative docking analysis using four independent algorithms (PLP, ASP, ChemScore, GoldScore) revealed
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Background/Objectives: The study investigated the anti-inflammatory potential of neolignan derivatives of dehydrodieugenol (CP1–CP5), focusing on the inhibition of secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2), a key enzyme in inflammation. Methods: Comprehensive quantitative docking analysis using four independent algorithms (PLP, ASP, ChemScore, GoldScore) revealed exceptional multitarget binding profiles for CP1 and CP2, with scores consistently above activity thresholds for acetylcholinesterase (AChE), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and sPLA2 from Crotalus durissus terrificus in both monomeric (Mcdt) and quaternary (Tcdt) forms. Results: Among the compounds, CP1 demonstrated the highest predicted affinity (AChE: 78.5, COX-2: 83.8, sPLA2: 82.7–83.4) and most potent experimental activity, reducing sPLA2 catalytic velocity through mixed-type inhibition involving the active site (His47, Asp48) and Ca2+ binding loop. In vivo assays in sPLA2-induced paw edema demonstrated that CP1 and CP2 achieved remarkable anti-inflammatory effects (up to 68.3% reduction), significantly exceeding their protective potential by direct enzyme inhibition, confirming the multitarget mechanism. The strong correlation between predicted docking scores and paw edema reduction (R2 = 0.89, p < 0.01) creates a firm foundation for establishing structure–activity relationship explanations. Conclusions: These findings highlight an integrated mechanism involving: (1) partial sPLA2 modulation, (2) neuroimmune regulation via AChE inhibition, and (3) prostaglandin synthesis blockade through COX-2 inhibition. This multitarget approach, combined with the natural origin of the compounds, positions dehydrodieugenol derivatives as promising candidates for developing therapies against complex inflammatory diseases, offering significant advantages over single-target strategies.
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(This article belongs to the Section In Silico Approaches in Drug Discovery)
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Open AccessReview
Absorption of Vitamin B12 in Older Adults: Advances and Challenges in Sublingual Administration
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Antonella Quijada, Benjamín Claria, Paula Jiménez, Paula García, Álvaro Pérez and María Elsa Pando
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010019 - 3 Mar 2026
Abstract
The aim of this review is to analyze current routes for the administration and absorption of vitamin B12 in older adults, with a special focus on the sublingual route using orodispersible films, and evaluate the advances, materials, and challenges associated with this method
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The aim of this review is to analyze current routes for the administration and absorption of vitamin B12 in older adults, with a special focus on the sublingual route using orodispersible films, and evaluate the advances, materials, and challenges associated with this method of administration. Thus, the review aims to provide an updated overview of safe and effective alternatives for preventing and treating vitamin B12 deficiency in this age group. Vitamin B12 deficiency predominantly affects older adults. After the age of 70, absorption decreases, and deficiency occurs most frequently due to age-related gastric atrophy, decreased gastric acid production, reduced intrinsic factor secretion, and inadequate dietary vitamin B12 intake. This narrative review examines traditional and current treatments for vitamin B12 administration in older adults, with a focus on sublingual administration (SL) via orodispersible films (ODFs) to enhance absorption, adherence, and accessibility. SL vitamin B12 bioavailability, advantages versus disadvantages, ODF formulations (polymers such as pregelatinized starch, HPMC, and chitosan), and pharmaceutical process challenges (solvent casting and hot-melt extrusion) were explored in the reviewed in vitro and in vivo studies. According to the collected evidence, the sublingual route appears to offer rapid absorption directly into the bloodstream, with efficacy comparable to/superior to intramuscular (IM)/oral (OP) routes of administration, representing a patient-centered innovation for older adults that overcomes painful treatments and gastrointestinal/swallowing barriers. Future longitudinal clinical trials should validate long-term efficacy, standardize materials, and scale up to viable industrial production, addressing issues related to chemical stability and polypharmacy.
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(This article belongs to the Section Marketed Drugs)
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The Analysis of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR Pathway and Mitochondria Modulation by a 2-Aminopyridine Compound Using the Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cell Line PC-3
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Talita Alvarenga Valdes, Sabrina Mendes Botelho, Keli Lima, Carlos Alberto Montanari, João Agostinho Machado Neto and Andrei Leitão
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010018 - 2 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent and deadly neoplasias in the male population. Despite the availability of therapies that increase the long-term survival of patients with localized tumors, metastatic prostate cancer is challenging to treat. A previous study revealed that
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Background: Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent and deadly neoplasias in the male population. Despite the availability of therapies that increase the long-term survival of patients with localized tumors, metastatic prostate cancer is challenging to treat. A previous study revealed that the 2-aminopyridine derivative (named Neq0440) inhibited the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway and presented selective cytotoxicity toward the metastatic prostate cancer cell line PC-3. Methods: Here, we further analyzed the mechanism of action of these molecules by using cell-based colorimetric, fluorometric, epifluorescence microscopy, and Western blot assays. Results: Mitochondrial depolarization increased the AMPK level at 24 h inhibition with Neq0440, which led to the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway downregulation after 48 h. The phosphorylation was inhibited for AKT and the downstream quinases (S6RP and 4EBP1) from the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, which can work together with the mitochondrial depolarization, lowering the pH of the medium, increasing ROS levels, and translocating the lysosomes toward the nucleus to trigger cell death. Conclusions: Therefore, Neq0440 can be used as a lead compound to obtain derivatives with a novel anticancer mechanism of action.
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(This article belongs to the Section Preclinical Research)
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Cancer Metabolism and Its Historical & Molecular Foundations: An Overview
by
Rami A. Al-Horani
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010017 - 1 Mar 2026
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Cancer metabolism is a cornerstone of tumor biology, characterized by profound alterations in cellular energy production and biosynthetic pathways that drive malignancy. The seminal discovery of the “Warburg effect”, the preference of cancer cells for aerobic glycolysis even under oxygen-rich conditions, provided the
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Cancer metabolism is a cornerstone of tumor biology, characterized by profound alterations in cellular energy production and biosynthetic pathways that drive malignancy. The seminal discovery of the “Warburg effect”, the preference of cancer cells for aerobic glycolysis even under oxygen-rich conditions, provided the first major insight into this field. Historically, this observation was attributed to defective mitochondria, but modern research has revealed a far more complex picture of metabolic reprogramming that is actively driven by oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and the tumor microenvironment (TME). This review advances a unifying framework for understanding cancer metabolism as a dynamic ecosystem defined by three interconnected adaptations: metabolic plasticity, oncometabolite-driven epigenetic remodeling, and immune-metabolic crosstalk. These adaptations extend beyond glycolysis to encompass glutamine metabolism, lipid synthesis, amino acid utilization, and mitochondrial dynamics, all coordinated to fuel rapid proliferation, promote survival, and enable metastasis. By examining the drivers, consequences, and therapeutic barriers within this framework, we highlight emerging strategies for precision intervention. Although understanding the mechanistic basis of these pathways has unveiled new therapeutic avenues, clinical translation has been limited by metabolic redundancy, microenvironmental buffering, and patient heterogeneity. Strategies such as metabolic inhibitors, dietary interventions, and immuno-metabolic combinations offer promising prospects for disrupting tumor growth when guided by biomarker-driven patient selection and emerging technologies, including spatial metabolomics and AI-driven network modeling.
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Open AccessArticle
Computational Screening of AI-Generated Antihypertensive Virtual Leads for Polypharmacological Anticancer Potential
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Uche A. K. Chude-Okonkwo and Mokete Motente
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010016 - 19 Feb 2026
Cited by 1
Abstract
Background: The growing recognition of shared molecular pathways and molecular signatures between cardiovascular diseases and cancer has motivated interest in exploring antihypertensive-associated chemical space for oncological applications. Concurrently, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven molecular generation has enabled the rapid creation of virtual lead candidates for
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Background: The growing recognition of shared molecular pathways and molecular signatures between cardiovascular diseases and cancer has motivated interest in exploring antihypertensive-associated chemical space for oncological applications. Concurrently, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven molecular generation has enabled the rapid creation of virtual lead candidates for specific therapeutic indications, although their broader biological interaction profiles often remain unexplored. Methods: In this paper, we explore the computational screening of a library of AI-generated antihypertensive virtual lead compounds to evaluate their polypharmacological anticancer potential. The compounds were originally designed and prioritized for modulating -adrenergic receptors but are here re-evaluated in a cancer-focused context using a multi-stage in silico approach. We chose five (5) known cancer target proteins and performed compound profiling for drug-likeness, pharmacokinetic suitability, and safety. Docking simulations, binding free energy estimates, molecular interaction mapping, and pharmacophore modeling were used to evaluate the molecules’ interactions with the cancer-linked protein targets. We employed the binding free energy estimates of the ligand–protein complexes to determine compounds with polypharmacological anticancer potential. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations of some of the compounds with polypharmacological anticancer potential were employed to evaluate binding stability and dynamic behavior of selected ligand–target complexes. Results: Several compounds showed good docking scores, physicochemical characteristics, and pharmacokinetic profiles. Also, the results reveal that several AI-generated antihypertensive virtual leads exhibit favorable multi-target binding profiles, with consistent docking affinities and stable interaction networks across multiple cancer-related targets. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that several of the hypothetically evaluated compounds exhibit favorable physicochemical properties, acceptable predicted pharmacokinetic and safety profiles, and consistent predicted binding affinities across multiple cancer-relevant targets.
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(This article belongs to the Section In Silico Approaches in Drug Discovery)
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Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Premchandani et al. Engineered Exosomes as Smart Drug Carriers: Overcoming Biological Barriers in CNS and Cancer Therapy. Drugs Drug Candidates 2025, 4, 19
by
Tanvi Premchandani, Amol Tatode, Jayshree Taksande, Milind Umekar, Mohammad Qutub, Ujban Md Hussain and Priyanka Singanwad
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010015 - 10 Feb 2026
Cited by 1
Abstract
In the published manuscript [...]
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Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Chaachouay, N.; Zidane, L. Plant-Derived Natural Products: A Source for Drug Discovery and Development. Drugs Drug Candidates 2024, 3, 184–207
by
Noureddine Chaachouay and Lahcen Zidane
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010014 - 10 Feb 2026
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Abstract
In the published manuscript [...]
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Non-Pharmacological Activation of the Renal Kallikrein–Kinin System: Dietary Potassium as a Novel Renoprotective Approach
by
Leopoldo Ardiles and Carlos D. Figueroa
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010013 - 2 Feb 2026
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as a pervasive global health concern, for which there are no known curative treatments. Consequently, there is an imperative for the implementation of preventive and kidney-protective strategies. The renal kallikrein–kinin system (KKS) is a vasodilator, anti-inflammatory, and
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Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has emerged as a pervasive global health concern, for which there are no known curative treatments. Consequently, there is an imperative for the implementation of preventive and kidney-protective strategies. The renal kallikrein–kinin system (KKS) is a vasodilator, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic pathway located in the distal nephron, whose decline contributes to hypertension and CKD progression. In this narrative, non-systematic review, a thorough evaluation of both experimental and clinical data was undertaken to ascertain the interactions between dietary potassium, renal KKS activity, and kidney protection. A particular emphasis was placed on animal models of proteinuria, tubulointerstitial damage, and salt-sensitive hypertension, in conjunction with human studies on potassium intake and renal outcomes. A body of experimental evidence suggests a relationship between potassium-rich diets and renal kallikrein synthesis, urinary kallikrein activity, and up-regulated kinin B2 receptor expression. Collectively, these factors have been shown to result in reduced blood pressure, oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, and these effects are counteracted by B2 receptor blockade. In humans, higher potassium intake has been shown to enhance kallikrein excretion and lower cardiovascular and renal risk, independently of aldosterone. Conversely, low potassium intake has the potential to exacerbate CKD progression. Notwithstanding the concerns that have been raised regarding the potential necessity of increasing potassium intake in cases of advanced CKD, extant evidence would appear to indicate that potassium excretion persists until late disease stages. The activation and preservation of the renal KKS through a potassium-rich diet is a rational, cost-effective strategy for renoprotection. When combined with sodium reduction and nutritional education, this approach has the potential to halt the progression of CKD and enhance cardiovascular health on a population scale.
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(This article belongs to the Section Preclinical Research)
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Chemical Space of Cephalosporins Across Generations
by
Henrique de Aguiar Mello and Itamar Luís Gonçalves
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010012 - 2 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cephalosporins represent one of the most important classes of β-lactam antibiotics, widely used in clinical practice due to their broad-spectrum activity and favorable safety profile. As generations evolved, structural modifications were introduced to expand antimicrobial coverage and overcome β-lactamase resistance. This study
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Background/Objectives: Cephalosporins represent one of the most important classes of β-lactam antibiotics, widely used in clinical practice due to their broad-spectrum activity and favorable safety profile. As generations evolved, structural modifications were introduced to expand antimicrobial coverage and overcome β-lactamase resistance. This study aimed to analyze the drug-like properties of cephalosporins across different generations using molecular descriptors to identify structural and pharmacokinetic patterns influencing bioavailability and oral administration profiles. Methods: Thirty-eight cephalosporins representative of different generations were selected. Molecular data were obtained from PubChem, and SMILES were extracted and validated. Molecular descriptors (including MW, logP, TPSA, HBA, HBD, rotatable bonds, and global complexity indices) were calculated using the SwissADME and ChemDes platforms. Statistical analysis included ANOVA followed by post hoc tests, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results: A progressive increase in molecular weight, polarity, and TPSA was observed across generations, with fourth-generation cephalosporins showing significantly higher values compared to first-generation compounds (p < 0.0001). LogP decreased significantly in fourth-generation agents (p < 0.0001), reflecting increased polarity. PCA revealed that most compounds from generations 1–2 cluster in regions consistent with Lipinski’s and Veber’s rules, whereas fourth- and fifth generation - cephalosporins deviated substantially, prioritizing antimicrobial efficacy over oral bioavailability. Recurrent structural modifications such as oximes, tetrazoles, and aminothiazoles were identified, with increasing frequency in modern generations. Conclusions: The evolution of cephalosporins reflects a strategic shift toward enhanced antimicrobial potency and β-lactamase stability at the expense of oral bioavailability. Understanding these structural transitions provides valuable insights for rational drug design, aiming to balance antimicrobial effectiveness with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles essential for therapeutic success.
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(This article belongs to the Section Marketed Drugs)
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Open AccessArticle
Levamisole Potentiation via Thymol and Cinnamaldehyde: Assessment of Pharmacological Interactions in Sheep
by
María Victoria Miró, Paula Ichinose, Mercedes Lloberas, Carlos Lanusse, Guillermo Virkel and Adrián Lifschitz
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010011 - 31 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The widespread development of anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes constitutes a major production-limiting factor in grazing ruminants. Resistance mechanisms often involve drug efflux transporters like P-glycoprotein (P-gp). This study aimed to evaluate the potential of the phytochemicals cinnamaldehyde (CNM) and thymol (TML)
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Background/Objectives: The widespread development of anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes constitutes a major production-limiting factor in grazing ruminants. Resistance mechanisms often involve drug efflux transporters like P-glycoprotein (P-gp). This study aimed to evaluate the potential of the phytochemicals cinnamaldehyde (CNM) and thymol (TML) to modulate P-gp activity and enhance the pharmacokinetic profile and efficacy of levamisole (LVM) in lambs. Methods: An ex vivo diffusion assay using sheep ileum was conducted to assess the influence of CNM, TML, and LVM on the transport of the P-gp substrate Rhodamine 123 (Rho123). Subsequently, a clinical trial was performed in lambs naturally infected with resistant nematodes. Animals received LVM (3.75 mg/kg) subcutaneously, either alone or co-administered with CNM or TML (80 mg/kg). Plasma LVM concentrations were analyzed by HPLC, and anthelmintic efficacy was determined via the Fecal Egg Count Reduction (FECR) test. Results: Ex vivo assays demonstrated that CNM, TML and LVM significantly reduced the efflux ratio of Rho123, confirming P-gp inhibition. The pharmacokinetic parameters of LVM did not differ significantly in the co-administered groups. However, the combination of LVM + TML tended to increase the total systemic exposure of LVM. Although all experimental groups showed a significant reduction in EPG between day 0 and day 7 (FECR 50–58%), the magnitude of this reduction did not differ significantly among treatments. Conclusions: While CNM and TML effectively inhibited P-gp activity ex vivo and slightly modified LVM pharmacokinetics, these effects were insufficient to yield clinically meaningful improvements in its efficacy against nematodes under the tested conditions. Future strategies should focus on optimizing delivery systems to maximize phytochemical–drug interactions.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Anti-Parasite Drug Discovery)
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Nanoencapsulated Cannabidiol–Cannabigerol Using Eudragit L100: In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence in Murine Colitis Model
by
K. Antonio Cárdenas-Noriega, Joel H. Elizondo-Luévano, Abelardo Chávez-Montes, Luis E. Rodríguez-Tovar, Moisés A. Franco-Molina, Diana G. Zárate-Triviño, Raymundo A. Pérez-Hernández, Adolfo Soto-Domínguez and Uziel Castillo-Velázquez
Drugs Drug Candidates 2026, 5(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/ddc5010010 - 31 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) have received increasing attention in the context of inflammatory and intestinal disorders. However, direct comparisons between their individual and combined effects, as well as the influence of delivery systems, remain limited. Objectives: This study
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Background: Phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) have received increasing attention in the context of inflammatory and intestinal disorders. However, direct comparisons between their individual and combined effects, as well as the influence of delivery systems, remain limited. Objectives: This study evaluated the biological effects of free and nanoencapsulated CBD and CBG, including a cannabinoid–Eudragit L100 formulation, in an in vitro TNBS-treated intestinal cell model and an in vivo murine model of TNBS-induced colitis. Methods: Cytotoxicity and treatment-associated effects of CBD, CBG, their 1:1 combination, and a nanoencapsulated formulation were assessed in TNBS-exposed Caco-2 cells. In parallel, BALB/c mice with TNBS-induced colitis were evaluated for colonic damage and inflammatory markers. Results: CBD and CBG individually showed dose-dependent effects in Caco-2 cells, while their combined administration produced a greater effect than either compound alone at higher concentrations. The nanoencapsulated formulation preserved cellular metabolic activity following TNBS exposure. In vivo, both free combined and nanoencapsulated cannabinoids were associated with reduced epithelial damage and inflammatory alterations. Conclusions: Nanoencapsulation using Eudragit L100 modulated the biological effects of CBD and CBG in experimental models of TNBS-induced intestinal injury.
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(This article belongs to the Section Preclinical Research)
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