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Dubaj C, Czyż K, Furmaga-Jabłońska W. Vitamin B 12 deficiency as a cause of severe neurological symptoms in breast fed infant - a case report. Ital J Pediatr 2020; 46:40. [PMID: 32228659 PMCID: PMC7106665 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-020-0804-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, cbl) deficiency in children is rare and may occurs in exclusively breast fed infants of mothers on vegetarian or vegan diet with lack of appropriate supplementation. The clinical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency include neurological disorders, megaloblastic anemia and failure to thrive. Routine and commonly used laboratory tests such as cell blood count (CBC) or serum vitamin B12 level are sufficient for appropriate diagnosis. Typical therapy is based on intramuscular cobalamin injections. Early diagnosis and early onset of treatment are crucial factors for long-term prognosis of patients as the duration of deficiency may be correlated with the development of long lasting changes in the nervous system. The purpose of this article is to present influence of maternal vitamin B12 deficiency as a cause of infant psychomotor retardation. Case presentation We report the case of a 7 months old girl whose parents sought medical advice due to pathological somnolence and developmental regression of their daughter with onset approximately 2 months prior to the visit. Following several diagnostic tests it was determined that the infant’s symptoms were due to vitamin B12 deficiency which was secondary to the mother’s latent Addison-Biermer disease. Apart from neurological symptoms the infant also showed megaloblastic anemia which is typical to cobalamin deficiencies. Intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation resulted in instant improvement of the patient’s general condition and blood morphology. Unfortunately, psychological examination indicated long-term psychomotor retardation due to delayed diagnosis of B12 deficiency. Conclusions Vitamin B12 levels should be considered during differential diagnosis of neurological symptoms in exclusively breast-fed infants especially if they co-exist with megaloblastic anemia and psychomotor retardation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cezary Dubaj
- Department of Neonate and Infant Pathology, Medical University of Lublin, Prof. Gębali 6 str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Czyż
- Department of Neonate and Infant Pathology, Medical University of Lublin, Prof. Gębali 6 str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Wanda Furmaga-Jabłońska
- Department of Neonate and Infant Pathology, Medical University of Lublin, Prof. Gębali 6 str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
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Arora K, Sequeira JM, Hernández AI, Alarcon JM, Quadros EV. Behavioral alterations are associated with vitamin B12 deficiency in the transcobalamin receptor/CD320 KO mouse. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177156. [PMID: 28545069 PMCID: PMC5436650 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency is prevalent worldwide and causes megaloblastic anemia and neurologic deficits. While the anemia can be treated, the neurologic deficits can become refractive to treatment as the disease progresses. Therefore, timely intervention is critical for a favorable outcome. Moreover, the metabolic basis for the neuro-pathologic changes and the role of cobalamin deficiency in the pathology still remains unexplained. Using a transcobalamin receptor / CD320 knockout mouse that lacks the receptor for cellular uptake of transcobalamin bound cobalamin, we aimed to determine whether cobalamin deficiency in the central nervous system produced functional neurologic deficits in the mouse that would parallel those observed in humans. Our behavioral analyses indicate elevated anxiety and deficits in learning, memory and set-shifting of a spatial memory task in the KO mouse. Consistent with the behavioral deficits, the knockout mouse shows impaired expression of the early phase of hippocampal long-term potentiation along with reduced expression of GluR1, decreased brain mass and a significant reduction in the size of nuclei of the hippocampal pyramidal neurons. Our study suggests that the CD320 knockout mouse develops behavioral deficits associated with cobalamin deficiency and therefore could provide a model to understand the metabolic and genetic basis of neuro-pathologic changes due to cobalamin deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveri Arora
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey M. Sequeira
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Alejandro I. Hernández
- Department of Pathology, The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Juan M. Alarcon
- Department of Pathology, The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Edward V. Quadros
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
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Veber D, Scalabrino G. Are PrPCs involved in some human myelin diseases? Relating experimental studies to human pathology. J Neurol Sci 2015; 359:396-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.09.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Goto Y, Masuda A, Aiba T. In vivo application of chitosan to improve bioavailability of cyanocobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, following intraintestinal administration in rats. Int J Pharm 2015; 483:250-5. [PMID: 25681732 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The effect of chitosan on the intestinal absorption of cyanocobalamin (VB12), a stable form of vitamin B12, was investigated in vivo in rats, with the aim of improving the oral bioavailability of VB12 for anemia treatment in patients with gastrectomy. The bioavailability was evaluated based on the plasma concentration profile of VB12 following intraintestinal administration of the VB12 solution containing chitosan at various concentrations. The bioavailability of VB12 was 0.6±0.2% when the chitosan-free VB12 solution was administered, while it increased to 10.5±3.3% when chitosan was dissolved in the VB12 solution at a concentration of 1%. The bioavailability of VB12 increases with the chitosan concentration, in which chitosan seems to augment the amount of VB12 absorbed without affecting the absorption rate constant of VB12. It was also shown that the bioavailability of VB12 does not increase further when the degree of chitosan deacetylation is increased from 83 to 100% by substitutively employing the fully deacetylated chitosan. These findings suggest that the oral administration of VB12 with readily available chitosan may be a practical approach for anemia treatment in patients with gastrectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Goto
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Ayumi Masuda
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Aiba
- Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan.
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Scalabrino G, Veber D, Tredici G. Relationships between cobalamin, epidermal growth factor, and normal prions in the myelin maintenance of central nervous system. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 55:232-41. [PMID: 25239885 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cobalamin (Cbl), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and prions (PrPs) are key molecules for myelin maintenance in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Cbl and EGF increase normal prion (PrP(C)) synthesis and PrP(C) levels in rat spinal cord (SC) and elsewhere. Cbl deficiency increases PrP(C) levels in rat SC and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and decreases PrP(C)-mRNA levels in rat SC. The administration of anti-octapeptide repeat PrP(C) region antibodies (Abs) to Cbl-deficient (Cbl-D) rats prevents SC myelin lesions and a local increase in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels, whereas anti-TNF-α Abs prevent SC myelin lesions and the increase in SC and CSF PrP(C) levels. As it is known that both Cbl and EGF regulate SC PrP(C) synthesis independently, and that Cbl regulates SC EGF synthesis, EGF may play both Cbl-independent and Cbl-dependent roles. When Cbl-D rats undergo Cbl replacement therapy, SC PrP(C) levels are similar to those observed in Cbl-D rats. In rat frontal cortex (which is marginally affected by Cbl deficiency in histological terms), Cbl deficiency decreases PrP(C) levels and the increase induced by Cbl replacement leads to their normalization. Increased nerve PrP(C) levels are detected in the myelin lesions of the peripheral neuropathy of Cbl-D rats, and CSF PrP(C) levels are also increased in Cbl-D patients (but not in patients with Cbl-unrelated neurological diseases). Various common steps in the downstream signaling pathway of Cbl, EGF, and PrP(C) underlines the close relationship between the three molecules in keeping myelin normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neuropathology, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Daniela Veber
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neuropathology, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tredici
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20052 Monza, Italy
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6
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Mutti E, Ruetz M, Birn H, Kräutler B, Nexo E. 4-ethylphenyl-cobalamin impairs tissue uptake of vitamin B12 and causes vitamin B12 deficiency in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75312. [PMID: 24073261 PMCID: PMC3779197 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Coβ-4-ethylphenyl-cob(III) alamin (EtPhCbl) is an organometallic analogue of vitamin B12 (CNCbl) which binds to transcobalamin (TC), a plasma protein that facilitates the cellular uptake of cobalamin (Cbl). In vitro assays with key enzymes do not convert EtPhCbl to the active coenzyme forms of Cbl suggesting that administration of EtPhCbl may cause cellular Cbl deficiency. Here, we investigate the in vivo effect of EtPhCbl in mice and its ability, if any, to induce Cbl deficiency. We show that EtPhCbl binds to mouse TC and we examined mice that received 3.5 nmol/24h EtPhCbl (n=6), 3.5 nmol/24h CNCbl (n=7) or NaCl (control group) (n=5) through osmotic mini-pumps for four weeks. We analyzed plasma, urine, liver, spleen, submaxillary glands and spinal cord for Cbl and markers of Cbl deficiency including methylmalonic acid (MMA) and homocysteine (tHcy). Plasma MMA (mean±SEM) was elevated in animals treated with EtPhCbl (1.01±0.12 µmol/L) compared to controls (0.30±0.02 µmol/L) and CNCbl (0.29±0.01 µmol/L) treated animals. The same pattern was observed for tHcy. Plasma total Cbl concentration was higher in animals treated with EtPhCbl (128.82±1.87 nmol/L) than in CNCbl treated animals (87.64±0.93 nmol/L). However, the organ levels of total Cbl were significantly lower in animals treated with EtPhCbl compared to CNCbl treated animals or controls, notably in the liver (157.07±8.56 pmol/g vs. 603.85±20.02 pmol/g, and 443.09±12.32 pmol/g, respectively). Differences between the three groups was analysed using one-way ANOVA and, Bonferroni post-hoc test. EtPhCbl was present in all tissues, except the spinal cord, accounting for 35-90% of total Cbl. In conclusion, treatment with EtPhCbl induces biochemical evidence of Cbl deficiency. This may in part be caused by a compromised tissue accumulation of Cbl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Mutti
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Markus Ruetz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Centre of Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Henrik Birn
- Department of Nephrology, Aarhus University Hospital and Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bernhard Kräutler
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Centre of Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ebba Nexo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- * E-mail:
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Scalabrino G, Veber D. Cobalamin and normal prions: a new horizon for cobalamin neurotrophism. Biochimie 2013; 95:1041-6. [PMID: 23328344 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2013.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
It is known that cobalamin (Cbl) deficiency damages myelin by increasing tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and decreasing epidermal growth factor (EGF) levels in rat central nervous system (CNS), and affects the peripheral nervous system (PNS) morphologically and functionally. It is also known that some polyneuropathies not due to Cbl deficiency are connected with increased TNF-α levels, and that various cytokines (including TNF-α) and growth factors regulate the in vitro synthesis of normal prions (PrP(C)s). Given that there is extensive evidence that PrP(C)s play a key role in the maintenance of CNS and PNS myelin, we investigated whether the PrP(C) octapeptide repeat (OR) region is involved in the pathogenesis of rat Cbl-deficient (Cbl-D) polyneuropathy. After intracerebroventricularly administering antibodies (Abs) against the OR region (OR-Abs) to Cbl-D rats to prevent myelin damage and maximum nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) abnormalities, and PrP(C)s to otherwise normal rats to reproduce PNS Cbl-D-like lesions, we measured PrP(C) levels and MNCV of the sciatic and tibial nerves. PrP(C) and TNF-α levels were increased in sciatic and tibial nerves of Cbl-D and saline-treated rats, and the OR-Abs normalized the myelin ultrastructure, TNF-α levels, and MNCV values of the sciatic and tibial nerves of Cbl-D rats. The same peripheral nerves of the otherwise normal PrP(C)-treated rats showed typical Cbl-D myelin lesions, significantly increased TNF-α levels, and significantly decreased MNCV values. These findings demonstrate that Cbl deficiency induces excess PrP(C)s and thereby excess OR regions, which seem to be responsible for the PNS myelin damage, as has recently been found in the case of CNS myelin damage [66]. Furthermore, excess TNF-α is also involved in the pathogenesis of Cbl-D polyneuropathy. In conclusion, we have extended the list of prion diseases by adding one caused by excess PrP(C)s and the polyneuropathies related to excess TNF-α.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Città Studi Department, Laboratory of Neuropathology, University of Milan, via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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8
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Scalabrino G, Veber D, Mutti E, Calligaro A, Milani S, Tredici G. Cobalamin (vitamin B12) regulation of PrPC, PrPC-mRNA and copper levels in rat central nervous system. Exp Neurol 2012; 233:380-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2011.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2011] [Revised: 10/06/2011] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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9
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Scalabrino G, Mutti E, Veber D, Rodriguez Menendez V, Novembrino C, Calligaro A, Tredici G. The octapeptide repeat PrPCregion and cobalamin-deficient polyneuropathy of the rat. Muscle Nerve 2011; 44:957-67. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.22225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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10
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Mutti E, Magnaghi V, Veber D, Faroni A, Pece S, Di Fiore PP, Scalabrino G. Cobalamin deficiency-induced changes of epidermal growth factor (EGF)-receptor expression and EGF levels in rat spinal cord. Brain Res 2011; 1376:23-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.12.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2010] [Revised: 12/15/2010] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Rêgo ACM, Neto AV, Azevedo ÍM, Araújo-Filho I, Egito EST, Medeiros AC. Biodistribution of Technetium-99m Pertechnetate after Total Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Jejunal Pouch. J INVEST SURG 2010; 23:94-100. [DOI: 10.3109/08941930903469409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Abstract
There is a growing awareness that natural vitamins (with the only exception of pantothenic acid) positively or negatively modulate the synthesis of some cytokines and growth factors in the CNS, and various mammalian cells and organs. As natural vitamins are micronutrients in the human diet, studying their effects can be considered a part of nutritional genomics or nutrigenomics. A given vitamin selectively modifies the synthesis of only a few cytokines and/or growth factors, although the same cytokine and/or growth factor may be regulated by more than one vitamin. These effects seem to be independent of the effects of vitamins as coenzymes and/or reducing agents, and seem to occur mainly at genomic and/or epigenetic level, and/or by modulating NF-kappaB activity. Although most of the studies reviewed here have been based on cultured cell lines, but their findings have been confirmed by some key in vivo studies. The CNS seems to be particularly involved and is severely affected by most avitaminoses, especially in the case of vitamin B(12). However, the vitamin-induced changes in cytokine and growth factor synthesis may initiate a cascade of events that can affect the function, differentiation, and morphology of the cells and/or structures not only in the CNS, but also elsewhere because most natural vitamins, cytokines, and growth factors cross the blood-brain barrier. As cytokines are essential to CNS-immune and CNS-hormone system communications, natural vitamins also interact with these circuits. Further studies of such vitamin-mediated effects could lead to vitamins being used for the treatment of diseases which, although not true avitaminoses, involve an imbalance in cytokine and/or growth factor synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Laboratory of Neuropathology, 'Città Studi' Department, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Scalabrino G. The multi-faceted basis of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) neurotrophism in adult central nervous system: Lessons learned from its deficiency. Prog Neurobiol 2009; 88:203-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2009.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2008] [Revised: 03/03/2009] [Accepted: 04/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Scalabrino G, Veber D, Mutti E. Experimental and clinical evidence of the role of cytokines and growth factors in the pathogenesis of acquired cobalamin-deficient leukoneuropathy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 59:42-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2008.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2008] [Revised: 04/30/2008] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Cobalamin deficiency-induced changes in magnetic resonance imaging of cerebrospinal fluid volume in the cervical tract in the rat. Neurosci Lett 2008; 440:202-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2008.05.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2007] [Revised: 03/04/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Veber D, Mutti E, Tacchini L, Gammella E, Tredici G, Scalabrino G. Indirect down-regulation of nuclear NF-κB levels by cobalamin in the spinal cord and liver of the rat. J Neurosci Res 2008; 86:1380-7. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.21599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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17
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Kalra S, Ahuja R, Mutti E, Veber D, Seetharam S, Scalabrino G, Seetharam B. Cobalamin-mediated regulation of transcobalamin receptor levels in rat organs. Arch Biochem Biophys 2007; 463:128-32. [PMID: 17442257 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2007.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2007] [Revised: 03/06/2007] [Accepted: 03/07/2007] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Total gastrectomy (TG) causes cobalamin (Cbl) deficiency followed by increases in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha levels in the spinal cord (SC) of the rat. In order to understand how Cbl deficiency may influence cell Cbl transport, we have measured by immunoblotting protein levels of the receptor for the Cbl-transcobalamin (TC) complex (TC-R) in both animal and cell models. TC-R protein levels were elevated in the total membranes of duodenal mucosa, kidneys, liver, and SC of rats made Cbl-deficient (Cbl-D) by means of TG or feeding with a Cbl-D diet. Postoperative Cbl-replacement treatment normalized the TC-R protein levels in each of the tested organs, regardless of whether this treatment was given during the first two post-TG or during the third and fourth post-TG mo. In Caco-2 cells, progressively increasing TNF-alpha concentrations supplemented to culture medium induced an up-regulation of TC-R protein levels. We provide the first evidence of the regulation of a Cbl-specific receptor by the vitamin itself in some rat organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Kalra
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 5000 West National Avenue, Milwaukee, 53295 WI, USA
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Mutti E, Veber D, Stampachiacchiere B, Stampachiacchere B, Triaca V, Gammella E, Tacchini L, Aloe L, Scalabrino G. Cobalamin deficiency-induced down-regulation of p75-immunoreactive cell levels in rat central nervous system. Brain Res 2007; 1157:92-9. [PMID: 17524373 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.04.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2006] [Revised: 04/12/2007] [Accepted: 04/13/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We investigated immunoreactivity for p75 neurotrophin receptor (NTR) in the spinal cord white matter and septum of rats made cobalamin-deficient (Cbl-D) by means of total gastrectomy or a Cbl-D diet. Cbl deficiency down-regulates p75NTR-immunoreactive cell levels in spinal cord white matter and septum with different time courses. On the whole, the spinal cord white matter seems to be more affected in terms of p75NTR-immunoreactive cells, most of which are astrocytes. The p75NTR-immunoreactive cell levels in the spinal cord white matter and septum normalized in rats treated with Cbl (scheme b) and killed 4 months after total gastrectomy. However, Western blot analysis of p75NTR in the spinal cords of Cbl-D rats shows increased p75NTR protein levels, which are resistant to Cbl replacement. These findings demonstrate that a neurotrophic vitamin (Cbl) positively regulates the levels of a neurotrophic receptor (p75NTR) (at least in terms of immunohistochemistry) in rat central nervous system, although the underlying mechanism(s) are still unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Mutti
- Institute of General Pathology, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milano, Italy
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Veber D, Mutti E, Galmozzi E, Cedrola S, Galbiati S, Morabito A, Tredici G, La Porta CA, Scalabrino G. Increased levels of the CD40:CD40 ligand dyad in the cerebrospinal fluid of rats with vitamin B12(cobalamin)-deficient central neuropathy. J Neuroimmunol 2006; 176:24-33. [PMID: 16716410 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2006.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2005] [Revised: 03/31/2006] [Accepted: 04/03/2006] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The levels of the soluble (s) CD40:sCD40 ligand (L) dyad, which belongs to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha:TNF-alpha-receptor superfamily, are significantly increased in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), but not the serum of cobalamin (Cbl)-deficient (Cbl-D) rats. They were normalized or significantly reduced after treatment with Cbl, transforming growth factor-beta1 or S-adenosyl-L-methionine, and the normal myelin ultrastructure of the spinal cord was concomitantly restored. The concomitance of the two beneficial effects of these treatments strongly suggests that the increases in CSF sCD40:sCD40L levels may participate in the pathogenesis of purely myelinolytic Cbl-D central neuropathy in the rat. In keeping with this, an anti-CD40 treatment prevented myelin lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Veber
- Institute of General Pathology and Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milano, Italy
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Scalabrino G, Peracchi M. New insights into the pathophysiology of cobalamin deficiency. Trends Mol Med 2006; 12:247-54. [PMID: 16690356 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2006.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2005] [Revised: 04/07/2006] [Accepted: 04/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cobalamin-deficient (Cbl-D) central neuropathy in the rat is associated with a locally increased expression of neurotoxic tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and a locally decreased expression of neurotrophic epidermal growth factor (EGF). These recent findings suggest that cobalamin oppositely regulates the expression of TNF-alpha and EGF, and raise the possibility that these effects might be independent of its coenzyme function. Furthermore, adult Cbl-D patients have high levels of TNF-alpha and low levels of EGF in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Serum levels of TNF-alpha and EGF of cobalamin-treated patients normalize concomitantly with haematological disease remission. These observations suggest that cobalamin deficiency induces an imbalance in TNF-alpha and EGF levels in biological fluids that might have a role in the pathogenesis of the damage caused by pernicious anaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology and Centre of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, I-20133 Milano, Italy.
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Scalabrino G, Mutti E, Veber D, Aloe L, Corsi MM, Galbiati S, Tredici G. Increased spinal cord NGF levels in rats with cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency. Neurosci Lett 2006; 396:153-8. [PMID: 16352395 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2005.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2005] [Revised: 11/08/2005] [Accepted: 11/13/2005] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that the neuropathological morphological alterations caused by cobalamin (Cbl) deficiency in the rat central nervous system are related to the vitamin's inability to modulate the synthesis of some neurotoxic and neurotrophic agents in opposite directions. In the present study, we measured nerve growth factor (NGF) levels in the spinal cord (SC) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of rats made Cbl-deficient (Cbl-D) by means of total gastrectomy (TG) or a Cbl-D diet. In both cases, Cbl deficiency increased SC and CSF NGF levels after the appearance of myelinolytic lesions in the SC white matter (SCWM) (i.e. after the second post-TG month), and these changes were normalised by Cbl treatment in the 4-month-totally-gastrectomised (TGX) rats. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) anti-NGF-antibody treatment prevented the onset of the myelinolytic SCWM lesions in the 2-month-TGX rats (i.e. when SC and CSF NGF levels are still normal) and normalised the ultrastructure of the SCWM in the 4-month-TGX rats, which was however worsened by the i.c.v. administration of NGF. These findings demonstrate that: (i) Cbl deficiency increases SC and CSF NGF levels; and (ii) endogenous NGF seems to play a noxious role in the progression of rat Cbl-D central neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milano, Italy.
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Scalabrino G. Cobalamin (vitamin B12) in subacute combined degeneration and beyond: traditional interpretations and novel theories. Exp Neurol 2005; 192:463-79. [PMID: 15755562 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2004.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2004] [Revised: 12/14/2004] [Accepted: 12/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Subacute combined degeneration (SCD) is a neuropathy due to cobalamin (Cbl) (vitamin B(12)) deficiency acquired in adult age. Hitherto, the theories advanced to explain the pathogenesis of SCD have postulated a causal relationship between SCD lesions and the impairment of either or both of two Cbl-dependent reactions. We have identified a new experimental model, the totally gastrectomized rat, to reproduce the key morphological features of the disease [spongy vacuolation, intramyelinic and interstitial edema of the white matter of the central nervous system (CNS), and astrogliosis], and found new mechanisms responsible for the pathogenesis of SCD: the neuropathological lesions in TGX rats are not only due to mere vitamin withdrawal but also to the overproduction of the myelinolytic tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and the reduced synthesis of the two neurotrophic agents, epidermal growth factor (EGF) and interleukin-6. This deregulation of the balance between TNF-alpha and EGF synthesis induced by Cbl deficiency has been verified in the sera of patients with pernicious anemia (but not in those with iron-deficient anemia), and in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of SCD patients. These new functions are not linked to the coenzyme functions of the vitamin, but it is still unknown whether they involve genetic or epigenetic mechanisms. Low Cbl levels have also been repeatedly observed in the sera and/or CSF of patients with Alzheimer's disease or multiple sclerosis, but whether Cbl deficit plays a role in the pathogenesis of these diseases is still unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology and Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, I-20133 Milan, Italy.
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Buccellato FR, Foi L, Veber D, Pravettoni G, Scalabrino G. Different uptake of cobalamin (vitamin B12) by astrocytes and oligodendrocytes isolated from rat spinal cord. Glia 2004; 45:406-11. [PMID: 14966871 DOI: 10.1002/glia.10345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we hypothesized that cobalamin (Cbl) deficiency might affect astrocytes and oligodendrocytes of rat spinal cord (SC) differently. Radiolabeled Cbl ([Cyano-14C]cyano-Cbl) was used to investigate whether the in vitro uptake of Cbl is different in primary cultures of oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. In culture medium supplemented with serum that naturally contains Cbl, the time course of labeled Cbl uptake by neonatal oligodendrocytes had two peaks, at 8 h and 24 h. No uptake was observed when the same cells were cultured in a serum-free medium and consequently in the absence of Cbl. Oligodendrocytes isolated from adult rat SC showed no uptake under any of the tested conditions. Astrocytes isolated from adult Cbl-deficient and newborn rat SC, both cultured in a medium supplemented with serum, showed peak Cbl uptake at 8 h and 12 h, respectively, whereas those isolated from the SC of an adult normal rat cultured under the same conditions showed no uptake throughout the experimental period. Astrocytes isolated from normal, Cbl-deficient adult rats and newborns cultured in a serum-free medium not containing Cbl, showed a similar trend of Cbl uptake with a peak at 24 h. Oligodendrocytes isolated from Cbl-deficient rats showed no uptake when cultured in medium with or without serum. This study provides evidence for a difference in the uptake of labeled Cbl between rat SC astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in relation to (1) age of the donor SC, (2) Cbl status of the donor SC, and (3) Cbl deficiency in the incubation medium that facilitates Cbl uptake in neonatal and adult astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca R Buccellato
- Institute of General Pathology and Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Scalabrino G, Carpo M, Bamonti F, Pizzinelli S, D'Avino C, Bresolin N, Meucci G, Martinelli V, Comi GC, Peracchi M. High tumor necrosis factor-? in levels in cerebrospinal fluid of cobalamin-deficient patients. Ann Neurol 2004; 56:886-90. [PMID: 15562428 DOI: 10.1002/ana.20325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We studied 14 patients with neurological manifestations of subacute combined degeneration (SCD) and 40 control patients not cobalamin (Cbl)-deficient. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of Cbl deficiency (Cbl and total homocysteine [tHCYS] levels) and the CSF levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and epidermal growth factor (EGF) were measured. Significantly higher levels of tHCYS and TNF-alpha, and significantly lower levels of Cbl and EGF were found in the SCD patients. In human CSF, as in human serum and the rat central nervous system, decreased Cbl concentrations are concomitant with an increase in TNF-alpha and a decrease in EGF-levels. Ann Neurol 2004;56:886-890.
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Gianazza E, Veber D, Eberini I, Buccellato FR, Mutti E, Sironi L, Scalabrino G. Cobalamin (vitamin B12)-deficiency-induced changes in the proteome of rat cerebrospinal fluid. Biochem J 2003; 374:239-46. [PMID: 12769818 PMCID: PMC1223583 DOI: 10.1042/bj20030059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2003] [Revised: 05/06/2003] [Accepted: 05/28/2003] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We studied the changes in the proteome of CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) in two animal models of Cbl (cobalamin) deficiency: TGX (totally gastrectomized) rats and rats fed a Cbl-D (Cbl-deficient) diet. Two-dimensional PAGE was used to detect qualitative and quantitative variations in proteins in the CSF samples. The peak increase in total CSF protein concentration was observed 4 months after TG (total gastrectomy) and after 6 months of eating a Cbl-D diet. There is a specific increase 4 months after TG in the spots corresponding to alpha1-antitrypsin and the de novo presence of thiostatin and haptoglobin beta. Cbl-replacement treatment in 4-month-TGX rats corrected these alterations in the CSF proteome. However, most of the CSF proteome alterations attenuated in Cbl-untreated 8-month-TGX rats and in rats fed a Cbl-D diet for 16 months. Transthyretin concentration varied slightly in the CSF of both types of Cbl-D rat, whereas the relative abundance of prostaglandin D synthase rose sharply in the CSF of the rats fed a Cbl-D diet for 16 months. We have demonstrated previously that the histological and ultrastructural CNS (central nervous system) damage in both types of Cbl-D rat appears within 2-3 months of Cbl deficiency, and thus appears to precede the alterations in the CSF proteome. The CSF proteome patterns of rats in which phlogosis was induced in or outside the CNS are quite different from those of the CSF of Cbl-D rats. All these findings demonstrate that the alterations in the CSF proteome of Cbl-D rats are specifically linked to Cbl deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Gianazza
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences (Proteomics and Protein Structure Study Group), University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Brunaud L, Alberto JM, Ayav A, Gérard P, Namour F, Antunes L, Braun M, Bronowicki JP, Bresler L, Guéant JL. Effects of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies on DNA methylation and carcinogenesis in rat liver. Clin Chem Lab Med 2003; 41:1012-9. [PMID: 12964806 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2003.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Deficiencies of the major dietary sources of methyl groups, methionine and choline, lead to the formation of liver cancer in rodents. The most widely investigated hypothesis has been that dietary methyl insufficiency results in abnormal DNA methylation. Vitamin B12 and folate also play important roles in DNA methylation since these two coenzymes are required for the synthesis of methionine and S-adenosyl methionine, the common methyl donor required for the maintenance of methylation patterns in DNA. The aim of this study was to review the effects of methyl-deficient diets on DNA methylation and liver carcinogenesis in rats, and to evaluate the role of vitamin B12 status in defining carcinogenicity of a methyl-deficient diet. Several studies have shown that a methyl-deficient diet influences global DNA methylation. Evidence from in vivo studies has not clearly established a link between vitamin B12 and DNA methylation. We reported that vitamin B12 and low methionine synthase activity were the two determinants of DNA hypomethylation. Choline- or choline/methionine-deficient diets have been shown to cause hepatocellular carcinoma in 20-50% of animals after 12-24 months. In contrast, the effect of vitamin B12 withdrawal, in addition to choline, methionine and folate, induced hepatocellular carcinoma in less than 5% of rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Brunaud
- Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Pathology in Nutrition, INSERM EMI 0014 Medical Faculty, University of Nancy I, Vandoeuvre lès Nancy, France.
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Scalabrino G, Buccellato FR, Veber D, Mutti E. New Basis of the Neurotrophic Action of Vitamin B12. Clin Chem Lab Med 2003; 41:1435-7. [PMID: 14656022 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2003.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few years we have reproduced all of the key morphological and biochemical features of human subacute combined degeneration in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system of rats made cobalamin-deficient by means of total gastrectomy or a chronic cobalamin-deficient diet. We have also recently clarified the pathogenesis of experimental subacute combined degeneration induced in the rat by cobalamin deprivation. The results of our studies strongly support the notion that cobalamin plays a pivotal role in regulating the balance of the network of cytokines and growth factors in the central nervous system of the rat. We have demonstrated that cobalamin tightly regulates the central nervous system synthesis and/or the cerebrospinal fluid level of two cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6, and a growth factor, epidermal growth factor. Of these neuroactive agents, one, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, is neurotoxic, whereas the others are neurotrophic. Therefore, it becomes clear that cobalamin-deficient central neuropathy is caused not by the withdrawal of the vitamin, but reflects a locally increased production of neurotoxic agents, combined with the locally decreased production of neurotrophic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology, Center for Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Cairo G, Ronchi R, Buccellato FR, Veber D, Santambrogio P, Scalabrino G. Regulation of the ferritin H subunit by vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in rat spinal cord. J Neurosci Res 2002; 69:117-24. [PMID: 12111823 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.10267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cobalamin-deficient (Cbl-D) central neuropathy is a pure myelinolytic disease, in which gliosis is also observed. Iron is abundant in the mammalian central nervous system, where it is required for various essential functions including myelinogenesis. It is predominantly located in the white matter and oligodendrocytes, which also actively synthesize the major iron proteins (e.g., ferritin, transferrin). We investigated the expression of the main proteins of iron metabolism in the spinal cord (SC) of totally gastrectomized Cbl-D rats 2 months after surgery (i.e., when the Cbl-D status has become severe). There were no significant changes in iron content, the activity of iron regulatory proteins, or the expression of transferrin or its receptor in the SC. We observed a significant decrease in the levels of both H and L ferritin subunits, with a more marked reduction in the latter. Post-operative cobalamin replacement therapy normalized only the H-ferritin subunits, and only in the SC. Our results therefore suggest that permanent cobalamin deficiency affects iron metabolism in the rat SC preferentially from a functional point of view, because H-ferritin is known to be involved in the uptake and release of iron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Cairo
- Institute of General Pathology, Center for Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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29
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Scalabrino G, Corsi MM, Veber D, Buccellato FR, Pravettoni G, Manfridi A, Magni P. Cobalamin (vitamin B(12)) positively regulates interleukin-6 levels in rat cerebrospinal fluid. J Neuroimmunol 2002; 127:37-43. [PMID: 12044973 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-5728(02)00095-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that the repeated intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) microinjection of interleukin-6 (IL-6) prevented the myelinolytic lesions of cobalamin-deficient (Cbl-D) central neuropathy [or subacute combined degeneration (SCD)] in totally gastrectomized (TGX) rats. We therefore hypothesized that cobalamin (Cbl) may actually regulate IL-6 levels in rat cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We measured IL-6 levels in the CSF of rats made Cbl-D by means of total gastrectomy (TG) or chronic feeding with a Cbl-D diet and killed at different times from the beginning of the experiment, and found that IL-6 levels significantly and progressively decreased over time. Chronic 2-month Cbl administration started 1 week after surgery prevented the decrease in IL-6 levels and, when it was started 2 months after surgery, it significantly increased IL-6 levels, but not to presurgical values. We also investigated whether IL-6 decrease might be ultimately due to the Cbl-deficiency-linked decrease in epidermal growth factor (EGF) synthesis. Repeated i.c.v. administrations of EGF to TGX rats did not modify CSF IL-6 levels. These results, together with those of a previous study showing the preventive effect of IL-6 treatment on SCD lesions, demonstrate that: (i) Cbl selectively regulates CSF IL-6 levels; and (ii) decreased IL-6 availability plays a role in the pathogenesis of the experimental SCD, in which no evidence of inflammatory and/or immunological reaction has been observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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30
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Peracchi M, Bamonti Catena F, Pomati M, De Franceschi M, Scalabrino G. Human cobalamin deficiency: alterations in serum tumour necrosis factor-alpha and epidermal growth factor. Eur J Haematol 2001; 67:123-7. [PMID: 11722601 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0609.2001.t01-1-00507.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We have previously demonstrated that vitamin B12 (cobalamin)-deficient central neuropathy in the rat is associated with local overexpression of neurotoxic tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha combined with locally decreased synthesis of neurotrophic epidermal growth factor (EGF). The aims of this study were to investigate whether a similar imbalance also occurs in the serum of adult patients with clinically confirmed cobalamin deficiency and whether it can be corrected by vitamin B12 replacement therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS We studied 34 adult patients with severe cobalamin deficiency, 12 patients with pure iron deficiency anaemia and 34 control subjects. Haematological markers of cobalamin deficiency and serum TNF-alpha and EGF levels were measured using commercial kits. Thirteen cobalamin-deficient patients were re-evaluated after 3 and 6 months of parenteral vitamin B12 treatment. RESULTS TNF-alpha was significantly higher (p < 0.01) and EGF significantly lower (p < 0.01) in the patients with cobalamin deficiency, but both were unchanged in patients with pure iron deficiency anaemia. In cobalamin-deficient patients the serum TNF-alpha levels correlated significantly with plasma total homocysteine levels (r = 0.425; p < 0.02). In the treated patients TNF-alpha and EGF levels normalised concomitantly with clinical and haematological disease remission. CONCLUSIONS In humans, as in rats, cobalamin concentration appears to be correlated with the synthesis and release of TNF-alpha and EGF in a reciprocal manner, because cobalamin deficiency is accompanied by overproduction of TNF-alpha and underproduction of EGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Peracchi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Chair of Gastroenterology and Chair of Hematology, University of Milan, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore, Italy
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Scalabrino G. Subacute combined degeneration one century later. The neurotrophic action of cobalamin (vitamin B12) revisited. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2001; 60:109-20. [PMID: 11272999 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/60.2.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
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Valenza F, Sibilla S, Porro GA, Brambilla A, Tredici S, Nicolini G, Miloso M, Tredici G, Gattinoni L. An improved in vivo rat model for the study of mechanical ventilatory support effects on organs distal to the lung. Crit Care Med 2000; 28:3697-704. [PMID: 11098976 DOI: 10.1097/00003246-200011000-00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the influence of different mechanical ventilatory support strategies on organs distal to the lung, we developed an in vivo rat model, in which the effects of different tidal volume values can be studied while maintaining other indexes. DESIGN Prospective, randomized animal laboratory investigation. SETTING University laboratory of Ospedale Maggiore di Milano-Instituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico. SUBJECTS Anesthetized, paralyzed, and mechanically ventilated male Sprague-Dawley rats. INTERVENTIONS Two groups of seven rats each were randomized to receive tidal volumes of either 25% or 75% of inspiratory capacity (IC), calculated from a preliminary estimation of total lung capacity. Ventilation strategies for the two groups were as follows: a) 25% IC, 9.9+/-0.8 mL/kg; frequency, 59+/-4 beats/min; positive end-expiratory pressure, 3.6+/-0.8 cm H2O; and peak inspiratory airway pressure (Paw), 13.2+/-2 cm H20; and b) 75% IC, 29.8+/-2.9; frequency, 23+/-13; positive end-expiratory pressure, 0; peak inspiratory Paw, 29.0+/-3. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Mean arterial pressure (invasively monitored) remained well above adequate perfusion pressure values throughout, and no significant difference was seen between the two groups. PaO2, pHa, and PaCO2 values were compared after 60 mins of ventilation and again, no significant difference was seen between the two groups (PaO2, 269+/-25 and 260+/-55 torr; pHa, 7.432+/-0.09 and 7.415+/-0.03; PaCO2, 35.4+/-8 and 32.5+/-2 torr, for the 25% IC and 75% IC groups, respectively). Mean Paws were not different (6.4+/-0.8 cm H2O in the 25% IC groups, and 6.1+/-1.2 in the 75% IC groups, respectively). At the end of the experiment, animals were killed and the liver and kidney isolated, fixed in 4% formalin, cut, and stained for optic microscopy. Kidneys from rats ventilated with 75% IC showed increased Bowman's space with collapse of the glomerular capillaries. This occurred in a greater percentage of rats ventilated with 75% IC (0.67+/-0.2 vs. 0.29+/-0.2, 75% IC vs. 25% IC, respectively; p < .05). Perivascular edema was also present in rats ventilated with 75% IC (p < .05). Morphometric determinations of the empty zones (index of edema) demonstrated a trend toward differences between 75% IC livers and 25% IC (0.14+/-0.05 vs. 0.11+/-0.02, respectively). CONCLUSION We conclude that it is possible to study the effects of mechanical ventilatory support on organs distal to the lung by means of an in vivo rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Valenza
- Istituto di Anestesia e Rianimazione, Ospedale Maggiore di Milano-IRCCS, Italy.
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Scalabrino G, Tredici G, Buccellato FR, Manfridi A. Further evidence for the involvement of epidermal growth factor in the signaling pathway of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the rat central nervous system. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2000; 59:808-14. [PMID: 11005261 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/59.9.808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to get further evidence for a mandatory involvement of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the neutrophic action of vitamin B12 (cobalamin (Cbl)) in the central nervous system (CNS) of the rat, we observed the effects of repeated intracerebroventricular (ICV) microinjections of EGF in rats made Cbl-deficient through total gastrectomy. Morphometric analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in both intramyelinic and interstitial edema in the white matter of the spinal cord (SC) of totally gastrectomized (TGX) rats after treatment. Intramyelinic and interstitial edema are characteristic of Cbl-deficient central neuropathy in the rat. Similar lesions were also present in SC white matter of rats treated with repeated ICV microinjections of specific anti-EGF antibodies without any modification in their Cbl status. These results, together with those of a previous study showing the cessation of EGF synthesis in the CNS of TGX rats, demonstrate that: a) EGF is necessarily involved in the signaling pathway of Cbl in the rat CNS; and b) the lack of a neurotrophic growth factor EGF, and not the mere withdrawal of Cbl, causes or at least contributes to neurodegenerative Cbl-deficient central neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Scalabrino
- Institute of General Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
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Adachi S, Kawamoto T, Otsuka M, Todoroki T, Fukao K. Enteral vitamin B12 supplements reverse postgastrectomy B12 deficiency. Ann Surg 2000; 232:199-201. [PMID: 10903597 PMCID: PMC1421130 DOI: 10.1097/00000658-200008000-00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the development of chemical and clinical vitamin B12 deficiency after total gastrectomy, and to evaluate the efficacy of supplemental oral B12 administration. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Postgastrectomy anemia is due to deficiencies of iron and vitamin B12, and parenteral B12 administration is the only appropriate treatment. However, no guidelines exist for the prophylactic use of B12 in patients who undergo total gastrectomy, the clinical presentation of B12 deficiency in this context has not been defined, and the question of whether oral B12 administration can be used to prevent and treat B12 deficiency has not been examined. METHODS Serum B12 concentrations were measured in 31 patients who had undergone total gastrectomy. Symptoms related to B12 deficiency were surveyed in detail. Serum B12 concentrations were measured every 6 months after total gastrectomy in 10 patients. Thirty one patients received supplemental B12: 18 patients orally and 13 by intramuscular injection. RESULTS The B12 concentration dropped below the lower limit of normal (200 pg/mL) for the first time in two patients at 1 year, in four patients at 2 years, in three patients at 3 years, and in one patient at 4 years. Seventy-eight percent of patients reported some symptoms related to B12 deficiency. The serum B12 concentration in patients who received supplemental B12 orally increased rapidly and all symptoms resolved with oral therapy alone. CONCLUSIONS B12 deficiency can develop as early as 1 year after total gastrectomy and causes symptoms. Because enteral B12 treatment increases the serum B12 concentration and leads to rapid resolution of symptoms, it should be prescribed routinely to patients undergoing total gastrectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Adachi
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
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Scalabrino G, Nicolini G, Buccellato FR, Peracchi M, Tredici G, Manfridi A, Pravettoni G. Epidermal growth factor as a local mediator of the neurotrophic action of vitamin B(12) (cobalamin) in the rat central nervous system. FASEB J 1999; 13:2083-90. [PMID: 10544191 DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.13.14.2083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that the myelinolytic lesions in the spinal cord (SC) of rats made deficient in vitamin B(12) (cobalamin) (Cbl) through total gastrectomy (TG) are tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-mediated. We investigate whether or not permanent Cbl deficiency, induced in the rat either through TG or by chronic feeding of a Cbl-deficient diet, might modify the levels of three physiological neurotrophic factors-epidermal growth factor (EGF), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and somatostatin (SS)-in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of these rats. We also investigated the ability of the central nervous system (CNS) in these Cbl-deficient rats to synthesize EGF mRNA and of the SC to take up labeled Cbl in vivo. Cbl-deficient rats, however the vitamin deficiency is induced, show a selective decrease in EGF CSF levels and an absence of EGF mRNA in neurons and glia in various CNS areas. In contrast, radiolabeled Cbl is almost exclusively taken up by the SC white matter, but to a much higher degree in totally gastrectomized (TGX) rats. Chronic administration of Cbl to TGX rats restores to normal both the EGF CSF level and EGF mRNA expression in the various CNS areas examined. This in vivo study presents the first evidence that the neurotrophic action of Cbl in the CNS of TGX rats is mediated by stimulation of the EGF synthesis in the CNS itself. It thus appears that Cbl inversely regulates the expression of EGF and TNF-alpha genes in the CNS of TGX rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Scalabrino
- Institutes of General Pathology, Human Anatomy, Medical Sciences, and Human Physiology II, Faculty of Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Italy Gife Laboratory, Lugano, Switzerland.
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Buccellato FR, Miloso M, Braga M, Nicolini G, Morabito A, Pravettoni G, Tredici G, Scalabrino G. Myelinolytic lesions in spinal cord of cobalamin-deficient rats are TNF-alpha-mediated. FASEB J 1999; 13:297-304. [PMID: 9973317 DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.13.2.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Repeated intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.)microinjection of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) into normal rats causes intramyelin and interstitial edema in the white matter of the spinal cord (SC). This response is identical to that observed in the SC white matter of rats made cobalamin (Cbl) deficient by total gastrectomy (TG). Immunoblot analysis showed that: 1) the level of the biologically active form of the TNF-alpha protein (17 kDa) is higher in the SC of totally gastrectomized (TGX) rats 2 months after TG, i.e., at the postoperative time when edema is observed; 2) SC levels of TNF-alpha protein (17 kDa) in 2-mo-TGX-, Cbl-treated rats are reduced to control. Repeated i.c.v. microinjections of anti-TNF-alpha antibodies, transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) or interleukin-6 (IL-6) into TGX rats, begun shortly after TG, substantially reduced both intramyelin and interstitial edema in the SC white matter. This study provides the first evidence that the hallmark myelin damage of Cbl-deficient central neuropathy, which is a pure myelinolytic disease, is not caused directly by the withdrawal of the vitamin itself, but reflects enhanced production of the biologically active form of TNF-alpha by SC cells. This study thus supports the view that TGF-beta1 and IL-6 may act as neuroprotective agents in Cbl deficiency central neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- F R Buccellato
- Institute of General Pathology, 2nd Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
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Tredici G, Buccellato FR, Braga M, Cavaletti G, Ciscato P, Moggio M, Scalabrino G, Moggio A. Polyneuropathy due to cobalamin deficiency in the rat. J Neurol Sci 1998; 156:18-29. [PMID: 9559982 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-510x(98)00005-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated the peripheral nervous system (PNS) (both in terms of its ultrastructure and in terms of its function) of rats made cobalamin (Cbl)-deficient either through total gastrectomy or through prolonged feeding on a Cbl-deficient diet. In both these types of Cbl-deficient neuropathies we found: (a) ultrastructurally, intramyelin and endoneural edema, with no or minimal axonal damage in the PNS, in dorsal root ganglia, and the ventral and dorsal rootlets of the spinal cord; (b) electrophysiologically, a significant reduction in the nerve conduction velocity, consistent with that reported in (a); (c) morphometrically, a significant reduction in the density of myelinated fibers both in the sciatic nerve and in the peroneal nerve. All these pathological changes were reversed by chronic postoperative administration of Cbl into totally gastrectomized (TGX)-rats, hinting at the specificity of the damage itself in relation to the permanent Cbl-deficient status of the TGX-rats. No signs of segmental demyelination or remyelination were found. We also observed a turning of type I fibers into type II fibers in the soleus muscle of all our Cbl-deficient rats, however the Cbl deficiency had been induced. This muscular change was still present in TGX- and Cbl-treated rats, and it cannot be related to a malnutrition status, since it has been observed also in rats fed a Cbl-deficient diet. All these results demonstrate that Cbl deficiency strongly affects rat PNS within different parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tredici
- Institute of Human Anatomy, Milan, Italy
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Scalabrino G, Buccellato FR, Tredici G. Methylmalonic acid as a marker for cobalamin deficiency: fact or fantasy? Elucidations from the cobalamin-deficient rat. Br J Haematol 1998; 100:615-6; author reply 617-8. [PMID: 9504660 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2141.1998.0636l.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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