Cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase-like activity in Drosophila melanogaster

To determine the possible activity of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase like enzymes in Drosophila melanogaster, we have investigated whether fly homogenates can biosynthesize prostaglandins and HETEs. Incubation of fly extracts with AA yields a mixture of 15- 12- 9- and 8-HETE as detected by selected ion monitoring GC-MS. Also the combination of HPLC-RIA using a PGE antibody shows the presence of endogenous PGE2 immunoreactivity in the extracts (405 pg/g in males and 165 pg/g in females). We have also detected the presence of lipoxygenase like immunoreactivity in the reproductive male system by using immunocytochemical techniques in whole body sections of the fly as well as reactivity in the digestive system of both males and females. Finally, we have not been able to detect endogenous AA in the fly by GC-MS methods. However, estimates by GC-MS of the total body fatty acids indicate substantial amounts of potential AA precursors.     

Pyridoxal thiosemicarbazonate monohydrate of dimethylthallium(III): X-ray structure and spectroscopic properties

The title compoud, [TlMe₂(HL)(H₂O)] (HL = monoanion of pyridoxal thiosemicarbazone), crystallizers in the triclinic space group , No. 2). The HL⁻anion coordinates to the thallium atom, in an unusual mode through the S atom (Tl-S = 2.832(1) Å), and also forms a weak bond with the metal atom of a neighbouring molecule to make an asymmetric bridge (Tl′…S = 3.190(1) Å). The acidic proton retained in the thiosemicarbazonato anion is located on the oxygen of the phenolic hydroxyl group. The water molecule is only 2.630(4) Å from the metal, suggesting a rather strong bond that contrasts with the long distance between the thallium and the phenolic oxygen (Tl…O(1)′ = 3.124(4) Å). If both strong and weak intermolecular interactions are taken in account, the metal has distorted octahedral coordination with the methyl groups in apical positions. The solid state IR spectrum and ¹H, ¹³C and ²⁰⁵Tl NMR spectra in DMSO solution are also discussed.