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Pontes L, Reichert-Lima F, Perini Leme Giordano AL, Moretti ML, Zaninelli Schreiber A. Challenging fungal infections in cystic fibrosis: a case of mixed Aspergillus species infection and antifungal combination testing. Access Microbiol 2024; 6:000758.v3. [PMID: 38737802 PMCID: PMC11083386 DOI: 10.1099/acmi.0.000758.v3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus stands as the predominant fungal genus in the airways of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, significantly contributing to their morbidity and mortality. Aspergillus fumigatus represents the primary causative species for infections, though the emergence of rare species within the Aspergillus section Fumigati has become noteworthy. Among these, Aspergillus lentulus is particularly significant due to its frequent misidentification and intrinsic resistance to azole antifungal agents. In the management of invasive aspergillosis and resistant infections, combination antifungal therapy has proven to be an effective approach. This report documents a case involving the death of a CF patient due to a pulmonary exacerbation linked to the colonization of multiple Aspergillus species, including A. lentulus, A. fumigatus, and A. terreus, and treated with Itraconazole (ITC) monotherapy. We delineated the procedures used to characterize the Aspergillus isolates in clinical settings and simulated in vitro the impact of the combination antifungal therapy on the isolates obtained from the patient. We evaluated three different combinations: Amphotericin B (AMB)+Voriconazole (VRC), AMB+Anidulafungin (AND), and VRC+AND. Notably, all strains isolated from the patient exhibited a significant decrease in their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) or minimum effective concentration (MEC) values when treated with all antifungal combinations. The VRC+AMB combination demonstrated the most synergistic effects. This case report emphasizes the critical importance of susceptibility testing and precise identification of Aspergillus species to enhance patient prognosis. It also underscores the potential benefits of combined antifungal treatment, which, in this case, could have led to a more favourable patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís Pontes
- School of Medical Sciences - University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Franqueline Reichert-Lima
- School of Medical Sciences in São José dos Campos – Humanitas, São José dos Campos – São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Luiza Moretti
- School of Medical Sciences - University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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Neff SL, Doing G, Reiter T, Hampton TH, Greene CS, Hogan DA. Pseudomonas aeruginosa transcriptome analysis of metal restriction in ex vivo cystic fibrosis sputum. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0315723. [PMID: 38385740 PMCID: PMC10986534 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03157-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections are a feature of cystic fibrosis (CF) that many patients experience even with the advent of highly effective modulator therapies. Identifying factors that impact P. aeruginosa in the CF lung could yield novel strategies to eradicate infection or otherwise improve outcomes. To complement published P. aeruginosa studies using laboratory models or RNA isolated from sputum, we analyzed transcripts of strain PAO1 after incubation in sputum from different CF donors prior to RNA extraction. We compared PAO1 gene expression in this "spike-in" sputum model to that for P. aeruginosa grown in synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum medium to determine key genes, which are among the most differentially expressed or most highly expressed. Using the key genes, gene sets with correlated expression were determined using the gene expression analysis tool eADAGE. Gene sets were used to analyze the activity of specific pathways in P. aeruginosa grown in sputum from different individuals. Gene sets that we found to be more active in sputum showed similar activation in published data that included P. aeruginosa RNA isolated from sputum relative to corresponding in vitro reference cultures. In the ex vivo samples, P. aeruginosa had increased levels of genes related to zinc and iron acquisition which were suppressed by metal amendment of sputum. We also found a significant correlation between expression of the H1-type VI secretion system and CFTR corrector use by the sputum donor. An ex vivo sputum model or synthetic sputum medium formulation that imposes metal restriction may enhance future CF-related studies.IMPORTANCEIdentifying the gene expression programs used by Pseudomonas aeruginosa to colonize the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) will illuminate new therapeutic strategies. To capture these transcriptional programs, we cultured the common P. aeruginosa laboratory strain PAO1 in expectorated sputum from CF patient donors. Through bioinformatic analysis, we defined sets of genes that are more transcriptionally active in real CF sputum compared to a synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum medium. Many of the most differentially active gene sets contained genes related to metal acquisition, suggesting that these gene sets play an active role in scavenging for metals in the CF lung environment which may be inadequately represented in some models. Future studies of P. aeruginosa transcript abundance in CF may benefit from the use of an expectorated sputum model or media supplemented with factors that induce metal restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel L. Neff
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Georgia Doing
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Taylor Reiter
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Thomas H. Hampton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Casey S. Greene
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Deborah A. Hogan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
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3
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Perdijk O, Azzoni R, Marsland BJ. The microbiome: an integral player in immune homeostasis and inflammation in the respiratory tract. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:835-879. [PMID: 38059886 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00020.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The last decade of microbiome research has highlighted its fundamental role in systemic immune and metabolic homeostasis. The microbiome plays a prominent role during gestation and into early life, when maternal lifestyle factors shape immune development of the newborn. Breast milk further shapes gut colonization, supporting the development of tolerance to commensal bacteria and harmless antigens while preventing outgrowth of pathogens. Environmental microbial and lifestyle factors that disrupt this process can dysregulate immune homeostasis, predisposing infants to atopic disease and childhood asthma. In health, the low-biomass lung microbiome, together with inhaled environmental microbial constituents, establishes the immunological set point that is necessary to maintain pulmonary immune defense. However, in disease perturbations to immunological and physiological processes allow the upper respiratory tract to act as a reservoir of pathogenic bacteria, which can colonize the diseased lung and cause severe inflammation. Studying these host-microbe interactions in respiratory diseases holds great promise to stratify patients for suitable treatment regimens and biomarker discovery to predict disease progression. Preclinical studies show that commensal gut microbes are in a constant flux of cell division and death, releasing microbial constituents, metabolic by-products, and vesicles that shape the immune system and can protect against respiratory diseases. The next major advances may come from testing and utilizing these microbial factors for clinical benefit and exploiting the predictive power of the microbiome by employing multiomics analysis approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf Perdijk
- Department of Immunology, School of Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rossana Azzoni
- Department of Immunology, School of Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Marsland
- Department of Immunology, School of Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Pedram K, Shon DJ, Tender GS, Mantuano NR, Northey JJ, Metcalf KJ, Wisnovsky SP, Riley NM, Forcina GC, Malaker SA, Kuo A, George BM, Miller CL, Casey KM, Vilches-Moure JG, Ferracane MJ, Weaver VM, Läubli H, Bertozzi CR. Design of a mucin-selective protease for targeted degradation of cancer-associated mucins. Nat Biotechnol 2024; 42:597-607. [PMID: 37537499 PMCID: PMC11018308 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-01840-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Targeted protein degradation is an emerging strategy for the elimination of classically undruggable proteins. Here, to expand the landscape of targetable substrates, we designed degraders that achieve substrate selectivity via recognition of a discrete peptide and glycan motif and achieve cell-type selectivity via antigen-driven cell-surface binding. We applied this approach to mucins, O-glycosylated proteins that drive cancer progression through biophysical and immunological mechanisms. Engineering of a bacterial mucin-selective protease yielded a variant for fusion to a cancer antigen-binding nanobody. The resulting conjugate selectively degraded mucins on cancer cells, promoted cell death in culture models of mucin-driven growth and survival, and reduced tumor growth in mouse models of breast cancer progression. This work establishes a blueprint for the development of biologics that degrade specific protein glycoforms on target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayvon Pedram
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - D Judy Shon
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gabrielle S Tender
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Natalia R Mantuano
- Cancer Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Oncology, Department of Theragnostics, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jason J Northey
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kevin J Metcalf
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Simon P Wisnovsky
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicholas M Riley
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Giovanni C Forcina
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Stacy A Malaker
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Angel Kuo
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Benson M George
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Stem Cell Research and Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caitlyn L Miller
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kerriann M Casey
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Valerie M Weaver
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Radiation Oncology and Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, and Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Heinz Läubli
- Cancer Immunotherapy Laboratory, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Oncology, Department of Theragnostics, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carolyn R Bertozzi
- Department of Chemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Blaseg NA, Robson JO, Patel RA, Asfour F, Pohl JF. Gastrointestinal Pathologies in Pediatric Patients With Cystic Fibrosis Undergoing Endoscopy: A Single-Center Retrospective Review Over 15 Years. Cureus 2024; 16:e59018. [PMID: 38800303 PMCID: PMC11127755 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Previous studies have demonstrated an increased incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) pathologies, specifically celiac disease (CD) and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). However, there is minimal data available regarding endoscopic findings in pediatric patients with CF and GI mucosal disease. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed on patients with CF under 18 years of age who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or colonoscopy with biopsy over a 15-year period at our institution. Patient characteristics including assigned sex at birth, CF genetic mutations (if identified), and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator use were recorded. Data obtained at the time of biopsy included body mass index (BMI), indication for the procedure, exocrine pancreatic status, visual endoscopic findings, and histologic findings. Results A total of 72 patients with CF were included in the study. 24% (n=17) were found to have abnormal endoscopic biopsy results. EoE (13% of all patients, n=9) and CD (6% of all patients, n=4) were the most common GI diagnoses present on endoscopic biopsy. All 3 patients taking CFTR modulator medications at the time of endoscopy had normal biopsy results. Of the 17 patients found to have abnormal pathology results, 14 (82%) were taking proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) medication at the time of endoscopy. Conclusion This study highlights the probable increased frequency of GI disease in the pediatric CF population. These findings underscore the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis while considering utilization of endoscopy with biopsy in pediatric patients with CF who have GI symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacob O Robson
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Raza A Patel
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Fadi Asfour
- Pediatric Pulmonology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - John F Pohl
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, USA
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Dallal Bashi YH, Ali A, Al Ayoub Y, Assi KH, Mairs R, McCarthy HO, Tunney MM, Kett VL. Inhaled dry powder liposomal azithromycin for treatment of chronic lower respiratory tract infection. Int J Pharm 2024; 653:123841. [PMID: 38266939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
A dry powder inhaled liposomal azithromycin formulation was developed for the treatment of chronic respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. Key properties including liposome size, charge and encapsulation efficiency powder size, shape, glass transition temperature (Tg), water content and in vitro respiratory deposition were determined. Antimicrobial activity against cystic fibrosis (CF) respiratory pathogens was determined by MIC, MBC and biofilm assays. Cytotoxicity and cellular uptake studies were performed using A549 cells. The average liposome size was 105 nm, charge was 55 mV and encapsulation efficiency was 75 %. The mean powder particle size d[v,50] of 4.54 µm and Mass Median Aerodynamic Diameter (MMAD) was 5.23 µm with a mean Tg of 76˚C and water content of 2.1 %. These excellent physicochemical characteristics were maintained over one year. Liposomal loaded azithromycin demonstrated enhanced activity against P. aeruginosa clinical isolates grown in biofilm. The formulation was rapidly delivered into bacterial cells with > 75 % uptake in 1 h. Rapid uptake into A549 cells via a cholesterol-dependent endocytosis pathway with no cytotoxic effects apparent. These data demonstrate that this formulation could offer benefits over current treatment regimens for people with chronic respiratory infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahlam Ali
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Yuosef Al Ayoub
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; School of Pharmacy, University of Bradford, UK
| | - Khaled H Assi
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; School of Pharmacy, University of Bradford, UK
| | - Rachel Mairs
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Helen O McCarthy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Michael M Tunney
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Vicky L Kett
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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Reasoner SA, Bernard R, Waalkes A, Penewit K, Lewis J, Sokolow AG, Brown RF, Edwards KM, Salipante SJ, Hadjifrangiskou M, Nicholson MR. Longitudinal profiling of the intestinal microbiome in children with cystic fibrosis treated with elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor. mBio 2024; 15:e0193523. [PMID: 38275294 PMCID: PMC10865789 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01935-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The intestinal microbiome influences growth and disease progression in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ELX/TEZ/IVA), the newest pharmaceutical modulator for CF, restores the function of the pathogenic mutated CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel. We performed a single-center longitudinal analysis of the effect of ELX/TEZ/IVA on the intestinal microbiome, intestinal inflammation, and clinical parameters in children with CF. Following ELX/TEZ/IVA, children with CF had significant improvements in body mass index and percent predicted forced expiratory volume in one second, and required fewer antibiotics for respiratory infections. Intestinal microbiome diversity increased following ELX/TEZ/IVA coupled with a decrease in the intestinal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus, the predominant respiratory pathogen in children with CF. There was a reduced abundance of microbiome-encoded antibiotic resistance genes. Microbial pathways for aerobic respiration were reduced after ELX/TEZ/IVA. The abundance of microbial acid tolerance genes was reduced, indicating microbial adaptation to increased CFTR function. In all, this study represents the first comprehensive analysis of the intestinal microbiome in children with CF receiving ELX/TEZ/IVA.IMPORTANCECystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease with significant gastrointestinal symptoms in addition to pulmonary complications. Recently approved treatments for CF, CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators, are anticipated to substantially improve the care of people with CF and extend their lifespans. Prior work has shown that the intestinal microbiome correlates with health outcomes in CF, particularly in children. Here, we study the intestinal microbiome of children with CF before and after the CFTR modulator, ELX/TEZ/IVA. We identify promising improvements in microbiome diversity, reduced measures of intestinal inflammation, and reduced antibiotic resistance genes. We present specific bacterial taxa and protein groups which change following ELX/TEZ/IVA. These results will inform future mechanistic studies to understand the microbial improvements associated with CFTR modulator treatment. This study demonstrates how the microbiome can change in response to a targeted medication that corrects a genetic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A. Reasoner
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rachel Bernard
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Adam Waalkes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kelsi Penewit
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Janessa Lewis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andrew G. Sokolow
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rebekah F. Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kathryn M. Edwards
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Stephen J. Salipante
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maria Hadjifrangiskou
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Center for Personalized Microbiology (CPMi), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Maribeth R. Nicholson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Abrami M, Biasin A, Tescione F, Tierno D, Dapas B, Carbone A, Grassi G, Conese M, Di Gioia S, Larobina D, Grassi M. Mucus Structure, Viscoelastic Properties, and Composition in Chronic Respiratory Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1933. [PMID: 38339210 PMCID: PMC10856136 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The respiratory mucus, a viscoelastic gel, effectuates a primary line of the airway defense when operated by the mucociliary clearance. In chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs), such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF), the mucus is overproduced and its solid content augments, changing its structure and viscoelastic properties and determining a derangement of essential defense mechanisms against opportunistic microbial (virus and bacteria) pathogens. This ensues in damaging of the airways, leading to a vicious cycle of obstruction and infection responsible for the harsh clinical evolution of these CRDs. Here, we review the essential features of normal and pathological mucus (i.e., sputum in CF, COPD, and asthma), i.e., mucin content, structure (mesh size), micro/macro-rheology, pH, and osmotic pressure, ending with the awareness that sputum biomarkers (mucins, inflammatory proteins and peptides, and metabolites) might serve to indicate acute exacerbation and response to therapies. There are some indications that old and novel treatments may change the structure, viscoelastic properties, and biomarker content of sputum; however, a wealth of work is still needed to embrace these measures as correlates of disease severity in association with (or even as substitutes of) pulmonary functional tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Abrami
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Via Valerio 6/A, I-34127 Trieste, Italy; (M.A.); (A.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Alice Biasin
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Via Valerio 6/A, I-34127 Trieste, Italy; (M.A.); (A.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Fabiana Tescione
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, P.le E. Fermi 1, I-80055 Portici, Italy; (F.T.); (D.L.)
| | - Domenico Tierno
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Cattinara University Hospital, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, I-34149 Trieste, Italy; (D.T.); (G.G.)
| | - Barbara Dapas
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, I-34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Annalucia Carbone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 121, I-71122 Foggia, Italy; (A.C.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Gabriele Grassi
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Cattinara University Hospital, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, I-34149 Trieste, Italy; (D.T.); (G.G.)
| | - Massimo Conese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 121, I-71122 Foggia, Italy; (A.C.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Sante Di Gioia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 121, I-71122 Foggia, Italy; (A.C.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Domenico Larobina
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, P.le E. Fermi 1, I-80055 Portici, Italy; (F.T.); (D.L.)
| | - Mario Grassi
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Via Valerio 6/A, I-34127 Trieste, Italy; (M.A.); (A.B.); (M.G.)
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9
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Neff SL, Hampton TH, Koeppen K, Sarkar S, Latario CJ, Ross BD, Stanton BA. Rocket-miR, a translational launchpad for miRNA-based antimicrobial drug development. mSystems 2023; 8:e0065323. [PMID: 37975659 PMCID: PMC10734502 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00653-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Antimicrobial-resistant infections contribute to millions of deaths worldwide every year. In particular, the group of bacteria collectively known as ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter sp.) pathogens are of considerable medical concern due to their virulence and exceptional ability to develop antibiotic resistance. New kinds of antimicrobial therapies are urgently needed to treat patients for whom existing antibiotics are ineffective. The Rocket-miR application predicts targets of human miRNAs in bacterial and fungal pathogens, rapidly identifying candidate miRNA-based antimicrobials. The application's target audience are microbiologists that have the laboratory resources to test the application's predictions. The Rocket-miR application currently supports 24 recognized human pathogens that are relevant to numerous diseases including cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. Furthermore, the application code was designed to be easily extendible to other human pathogens that commonly cause hospital-acquired infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel L. Neff
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Thomas H. Hampton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Katja Koeppen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Sharanya Sarkar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Casey J. Latario
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Benjamin D. Ross
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Bruce A. Stanton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
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10
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Sadr S, Tahermohammadi H, Kaveh S, Khanbabaee G, Tabatabaei SA, Choopani R, Rouzbahani AK, Fadavi N, Derikvandi S. Fractional Exhalation Nitric Oxide (FeNO) changes in cystic fibrosis patients induced by compound honey syrup: a pretest-posttest clinical trial. BMC Pulm Med 2023; 23:488. [PMID: 38053097 PMCID: PMC10696786 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-023-02787-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of Persian medicine Syrup 'compound honey syrup (CHS)' on fractional exhalation nitric oxide (FENO) changes in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). STUDY DESIGN We conducted a before-after clinical trial on 70 CF patients. All patients received classical treatments for CF along with CHS (including honey, Ginger, cinnamon, saffron, cardamom and galangal), 5-10 cc (depending on the age and weight of patients) in 100 cc of warm boiled water twice a day, 30 min after meals. In this clinical trial, before and 12 weeks after the start of the CHS, FeNO test was evaluated. RESULTS From 70 patients were enrolled, 44 patients completed this 12-week course of treatment. At the end of the study, changes in FeNO was significantly different before and after treatment (P-value < 0.05). At the end of the study, no dangerous side effects of CHS was reported. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that CHS can be effective as a complementary and safe drug in the medication of CF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Sadr
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology, Mofid Children's Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanieh Tahermohammadi
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Persian Medicine Network (PMN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahpar Kaveh
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ghamartaj Khanbabaee
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology, Mofid Children's Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Tabatabaei
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology, Mofid Children's Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasool Choopani
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Nafise Fadavi
- Rajaei Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Derikvandi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Student University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Habibullah MM. The role of CFTR channel in female infertility. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1228-1237. [PMID: 36576330 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2161427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a cAMP-activated trans-membrane ATP gated anion channel present in most epithelia, which transports chloride and bicarbonate ions across the apical membrane. Mutations in the CFTR protein are known to result in defective expression or function, notably the inhibition of chloride and bicarbonate transport. This can result in cystic fibrosis (CF), a disorder characterised by thickness of the mucus lining of the epithelial cells of the alimentary and respiratory tracts, sweat ducts and reproductive organs. As a consequence, there is a reduction in fluid transport at the apical surface. While the most devastating effect of CF is mortality, about 98% of men with CF are infertile, consequent of early blockage of or failure to develop the mesonephrotic ducts as well as the vas deferens. The effect of CF of female fertility is less well-understood. This review highlights the genetics and pathophysiology as well as the mechanism of action of CF on female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M Habibullah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Zhang M, Lu H, Xie L, Liu X, Cun D, Yang M. Inhaled RNA drugs to treat lung diseases: Disease-related cells and nano-bio interactions. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 203:115144. [PMID: 37995899 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, RNA-based therapies have gained much attention as biomedicines due to their remarkable therapeutic effects with high specificity and potency. Lung diseases offer a variety of currently undruggable but attractive targets that could potentially be treated with RNA drugs. Inhaled RNA drugs for the treatment of lung diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, have attracted more and more attention. A variety of novel nanoformulations have been designed and attempted for the delivery of RNA drugs to the lung via inhalation. However, the delivery of RNA drugs via inhalation poses several challenges. It includes protection of the stability of RNA molecules, overcoming biological barriers such as mucus and cell membrane to the delivery of RNA molecules to the targeted cytoplasm, escaping endosomal entrapment, and circumventing unwanted immune response etc. To address these challenges, ongoing researches focus on developing innovative nanoparticles to enhance the stability of RNA molecules, improve cellular targeting, enhance cellular uptake and endosomal escape to achieve precise delivery of RNA drugs to the intended lung cells while avoiding unwanted nano-bio interactions and off-target effects. The present review first addresses the pathologic hallmarks of different lung diseases, disease-related cell types in the lung, and promising therapeutic targets in these lung cells. Subsequently we highlight the importance of the nano-bio interactions in the lung that need to be addressed to realize disease-related cell-specific delivery of inhaled RNA drugs. This is followed by a review on the physical and chemical characteristics of inhaled nanoformulations that influence the nano-bio interactions with a focus on surface functionalization. Finally, the challenges in the development of inhaled nanomedicines and some key aspects that need to be considered in the development of future inhaled RNA drugs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjun Zhang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road No. 103, 110016 Shenyang, China; School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Haoyu Lu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road No. 103, 110016 Shenyang, China
| | - Liangkun Xie
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road No. 103, 110016 Shenyang, China
| | - Xulu Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road No. 103, 110016 Shenyang, China
| | - Dongmei Cun
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road No. 103, 110016 Shenyang, China.
| | - Mingshi Yang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road No. 103, 110016 Shenyang, China; Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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13
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Reasoner SA, Bernard R, Waalkes A, Penewit K, Lewis J, Sokolow AG, Brown RF, Edwards KM, Salipante SJ, Hadjifrangiskou M, Nicholson MR. Longitudinal Profiling of the Intestinal Microbiome in Children with Cystic Fibrosis Treated with Elexacaftor-Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.08.11.23293949. [PMID: 37645804 PMCID: PMC10462202 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.11.23293949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The intestinal microbiome influences growth and disease progression in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ELX/TEZ/IVA), the newest pharmaceutical modulator for CF, restores function of the pathogenic mutated CFTR channel. We performed a single-center longitudinal analysis of the effect of ELX/TEZ/IVA on the intestinal microbiome, intestinal inflammation, and clinical parameters in children with CF. Following ELX/TEZ/IVA, children with CF had significant improvements in BMI, ppFEV1 and required fewer antibiotics for respiratory infections. Intestinal microbiome diversity increased following ELX/TEZ/IVA coupled with a decrease in the intestinal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus, the predominant respiratory pathogen in children with CF. There was a reduced abundance of microbiome-encoded antibiotic-resistance genes. Microbial pathways for aerobic respiration were reduced after ELX/TEZ/IVA. The abundance of microbial acid tolerance genes was reduced, indicating microbial adaptation to increased CFTR function. In all, this study represents the first comprehensive analysis of the intestinal microbiome in children with CF receiving ELX/TEZ/IVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A. Reasoner
- Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rachel Bernard
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Adam Waalkes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kelsi Penewit
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Janessa Lewis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew G. Sokolow
- Division of Allergy, and Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rebekah F. Brown
- Division of Allergy, and Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kathryn M. Edwards
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Stephen J. Salipante
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria Hadjifrangiskou
- Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Center for Personalized Microbiology (CPMi), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Maribeth R. Nicholson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carrell Junior Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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14
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Illek B, Fischer H, Machen TE, Hari G, Clemons KV, Sass G, Ferreira JAG, Stevens DA. Protective role of CFTR during fungal infection of cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelial cells with Aspergillus fumigatus. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1196581. [PMID: 37680748 PMCID: PMC10482090 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1196581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung infection with the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) is a common complication in cystic fibrosis (CF) and is associated with loss of pulmonary function. We established a fungal epithelial co-culture model to examine the impact of Af infection on CF bronchial epithelial barrier function using Af strains 10AF and AF293-GFP, and the CFBE41o- cell line homozygous for the F508del mutation with (CF+CFTR) and without (CF) normal CFTR expression. Following exposure of the epithelial surface to Af conidia, formation of germlings (early stages of fungal growth) was detected after 9-12 hours and hyphae (mature fungal growth) after 12-24 hours. During fungal morphogenesis, bronchial epithelial cells showed signs of damage including rounding, and partial detachment after 24 hours. Fluorescently labeled conidia were internalized after 6 hours and more internalized conidia were observed in CF compared to CF+CFTR cells. Infection of the apical surface with 10AF conidia, germlings, or hyphae was performed to determine growth stage-specific effects on tight junction protein zona occludens protein 1 (ZO-1) expression and transepithelial electrical resistance (TER). In response to infection with conidia or germlings, epithelial barrier function degraded time-dependently (based on ZO-1 immunofluorescence and TER) with a delayed onset in CF+CFTR cell monolayers and required viable fungi and apical application. Infection with hyphae caused an earlier onset and faster rate of decline in TER compared to conidia and germlings. Gliotoxin, a major Af virulence factor, caused a rapid decline in TER and induced a transient chloride secretory response in CF+CFTR but not CF cells. Our findings suggest growth and internalization of Af result in deleterious effects on bronchial epithelial barrier function that occurred more rapidly in the absence of CFTR. Bronchial epithelial barrier breakdown was time-dependent and morphotype-specific and mimicked by acute administration of gliotoxin. Our study also suggests a protective role for CFTR by turning on CFTR-dependent chloride transport in response to gliotoxin, a mechanism that will support mucociliary clearance, and could delay the loss of epithelial integrity during fungal development in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Illek
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Horst Fischer
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Terry E. Machen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Gopika Hari
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Karl V. Clemons
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Gabriele Sass
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA, United States
| | - Jose A. G. Ferreira
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - David A. Stevens
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA, United States
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15
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Neff SL, Doing G, Reiter T, Hampton TH, Greene CS, Hogan DA. Analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa transcription in an ex vivo cystic fibrosis sputum model identifies metal restriction as a gene expression stimulus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.21.554169. [PMID: 37662412 PMCID: PMC10473638 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.21.554169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections are a distinctive feature of cystic fibrosis (CF) pathology, that challenge adults with CF even with the advent of highly effective modulator therapies. Characterizing P. aeruginosa transcription in the CF lung and identifying factors that drive gene expression could yield novel strategies to eradicate infection or otherwise improve outcomes. To complement published P. aeruginosa gene expression studies in laboratory culture models designed to model the CF lung environment, we employed an ex vivo sputum model in which laboratory strain PAO1 was incubated in sputum from different CF donors. As part of the analysis, we compared PAO1 gene expression in this "spike-in" sputum model to that for P. aeruginosa grown in artificial sputum medium (ASM). Analyses focused on genes that were differentially expressed between sputum and ASM and genes that were most highly expressed in sputum. We present a new approach that used sets of genes with correlated expression, identified by the gene expression analysis tool eADAGE, to analyze the differential activity of pathways in P. aeruginosa grown in CF sputum from different individuals. A key characteristic of P. aeruginosa grown in expectorated CF sputum was related to zinc and iron acquisition, but this signal varied by donor sputum. In addition, a significant correlation between P. aeruginosa expression of the H1-type VI secretion system and corrector use by the sputum donor was observed. These methods may be broadly useful in looking for variable signals across clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel L. Neff
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Georgia Doing
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Taylor Reiter
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Thomas H. Hampton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Casey S. Greene
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Deborah A. Hogan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
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16
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Transcriptomic profile comparison reveals conservation of ionocytes across multiple organs. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3516. [PMID: 36864051 PMCID: PMC9981729 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30603-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing has recently led to the identification of a flurry of rare, new cell types, such as the CFTR-high ionocytes in the airway epithelium. Ionocytes appear to be specifically responsible for fluid osmolarity and pH regulation. Similar cells exist in multiple other organs and have received various names, including intercalated cell in the kidney, mitochondria-rich cell in the inner ear, clear cell in the epididymis, and ionocyte in the salivary gland. Here, we compare the previously published transcriptomic profile of cells expressing FOXI1, the signature transcription factor expressed in airway ionocytes. Such FOXI1+ cells were found in datasets representing human and/or murine kidney, airway, epididymis, thymus, skin, inner ear, salivary gland, and prostate. This allowed us to assess the similarities between these cells and identify the core transcriptomic signature of this ionocyte 'family'. Our results demonstrate that, across all these organs, ionocytes maintain the expression of a characteristic set of genes, including FOXI1, KRT7, and ATP6V1B1. We conclude that the ionocyte signature defines a class of closely related cell types across multiple mammalian organs.
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17
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De Bleeckere A, Van den Bossche S, De Sutter PJ, Beirens T, Crabbé A, Coenye T. High throughput determination of the biofilm prevention concentration for Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms using a synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum medium. Biofilm 2023; 5:100106. [PMID: 36845825 PMCID: PMC9945637 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioflm.2023.100106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients suffering from chronic lung infections contributes to the failure of antimicrobial therapy. Conventionally, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) is determined to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of a pathogen, however this parameter fails to predict success in treating biofilm-associated infections. In the present study we developed a high throughput method to determine the antimicrobial concentration required to prevent P. aeruginosa biofilm formation, using a synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum medium (SCFM2). Biofilms were grown in SCFM2 for 24 h in the presence of antibiotics (tobramycin, ciprofloxacin or colistin), whereafter biofilms were disrupted and a resazurin staining was used to quantify the number of surviving metabolically active cells. In parallel, the content of all wells was plated to determine the number of colony forming units (CFU). Biofilm preventing concentrations (BPCs) were compared to MICs and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) determined according to EUCAST guidelines. Correlations between the resazurin-derived fluorescence and CFU counts were assessed with Kendall's Tau Rank tests. A significant correlation between fluorescence and CFU counts was observed for 9 out of 10 strains investigated, suggesting the fluorometric assay is a reliable alternative to plating for most P. aeruginosa isolates to determine biofilm susceptibility in relevant conditions. For all isolates a clear difference between MICs and BPCs of all three antibiotics was observed, with the BPCs being consistently higher than the MICs. Additionally, the extent of this difference appeared to be antibiotic-dependent. Our findings suggest that this high throughput assay could be a valuable addition to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility in P. aeruginosa biofilms in the context of CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber De Bleeckere
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Pieter-Jan De Sutter
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry and Clinical Analysis, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tine Beirens
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aurélie Crabbé
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Coenye
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,Corresponding author.
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18
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Bellavita R, Maione A, Braccia S, Sinoca M, Galdiero S, Galdiero E, Falanga A. Myxinidin-Derived Peptide against Biofilms Caused by Cystic Fibrosis Emerging Pathogens. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043092. [PMID: 36834512 PMCID: PMC9964602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic lung infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are triggered by multidrug-resistant bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Achromobacter xylosoxidans, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The CF airways are considered ideal sites for the colonization and growth of bacteria and fungi that favor the formation of mixed biofilms that are difficult to treat. The inefficacy of traditional antibiotics reinforces the need to find novel molecules able to fight these chronic infections. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a promising alternative for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. We developed a more serum-stable version of the peptide WMR (WMR-4) and investigated its ability to inhibit and eradicate C. albicans, S. maltophilia, and A. xylosoxidans biofilms in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Our results suggest that the peptide is able better to inhibit than to eradicate both mono and dual-species biofilms, which is further confirmed by the downregulation of some genes involved in biofilm formation or in quorum-sensing signaling. Biophysical data help to elucidate its mode of action, showing a strong interaction of WMR-4 with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and its insertion in liposomes mimicking Gram-negative and Candida membranes. Our results support the promising therapeutic application of AMPs in the treatment of mono- and dual-species biofilms during chronic infections in CF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Bellavita
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Maione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Simone Braccia
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marica Sinoca
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Emilia Galdiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via dell’ Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-253-4525
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19
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Weiss DJ, Rolandsson Enes S. MSCs interaction with the host lung microenvironment: An overlooked aspect? Front Immunol 2022; 13:1072257. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1072257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were identified more than 50 years ago, and research advances have promoted the translation of pre-clinical studies into clinical settings in several diseases. However, we are only starting to uncover the local factors that regulate cell phenotype, cell function, and cell viability across tissues following administration in different diseases. Advances in pre-clinical and translational studies suggest that the host environment, especially inflammatory active environments, plays a significant role in directing the infused MSCs towards different phenotypes with different functions. This can significantly effect their therapeutic efficacy. One way to study this interaction between the host environment and the infused cells is to expose MSCs ex vivo to patient samples such as serum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Using this approach, it has been demonstrated that MSCs are very sensitive to different host factors such as pathogens, inflammatory cytokines, and extra cellular matrix properties. By understanding how different local host factors effect MSC function it will open possibilities to select specific patient sub-groups that are more likely to respond to this type of treatment and will also open possibilities to prime the local host environment to increase viability and to enrich for a specific MSC phenotype. Here, we aim to review the current understanding of the interaction of MSCs with the host microenvironment. To narrow the scope of this mini review, the focus will be on the pulmonary microenvironment, with a specific focus on the diseases acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and cystic fibrosis (CF).
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20
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Sui H, Xu X, Su Y, Gong Z, Yao M, Liu X, Zhang T, Jiang Z, Bai T, Wang J, Zhang J, Xu C, Luo M. Gene therapy for cystic fibrosis: Challenges and prospects. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1015926. [PMID: 36304167 PMCID: PMC9592762 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1015926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening autosomal-recessive disease caused by mutations in a single gene encoding cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CF effects multiple organs, and lung disease is the primary cause of mortality. The median age at death from CF is in the early forties. CF was one of the first diseases to be considered for gene therapy, and efforts focused on treating CF lung disease began shortly after the CFTR gene was identified in 1989. However, despite the quickly established proof-of-concept for CFTR gene transfer in vitro and in clinical trials in 1990s, to date, 36 CF gene therapy clinical trials involving ∼600 patients with CF have yet to achieve their desired outcomes. The long journey to pursue gene therapy as a cure for CF encountered more difficulties than originally anticipated, but immense progress has been made in the past decade in the developments of next generation airway transduction viral vectors and CF animal models that reproduced human CF disease phenotypes. In this review, we look back at the history for the lessons learned from previous clinical trials and summarize the recent advances in the research for CF gene therapy, including the emerging CRISPR-based gene editing strategies. We also discuss the airway transduction vectors, large animal CF models, the complexity of CF pathogenesis and heterogeneity of CFTR expression in airway epithelium, which are the major challenges to the implementation of a successful CF gene therapy, and highlight the future opportunities and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongshu Sui
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| | - Xinghua Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanping Su
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaoqing Gong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Minhua Yao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaocui Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ziyao Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tianhao Bai
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Junzuo Wang
- The Affiliated Tai’an City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, Shandong, China
| | - Changlong Xu
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Nanning Second People’s Hospital, Nanning, China
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
| | - Mingjiu Luo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
- *Correspondence: Hongshu Sui, ; Changlong Xu, ; Mingjiu Luo,
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21
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Abstract
Mucins are functionally implicated in a range of human pathologies, including cystic fibrosis, influenza, bacterial endocarditis, gut dysbiosis, and cancer. These observations have motivated the study of mucin biosynthesis as well as the development of strategies for inhibition of mucin glycosylation. Mammalian pathways for mucin catabolism, however, have remained underexplored. The canonical view, derived from analysis of N-glycoproteins in human lysosomal storage disorders, is that glycan degradation and proteolysis occur sequentially. Here, we challenge this view by providing genetic and biochemical evidence supporting mammalian proteolysis of heavily O-glycosylated mucin domains without prior deglycosylation. Using activity screening coupled with mass spectrometry, we ascribed mucin-degrading activity in murine liver to the lysosomal protease cathepsin D. Glycoproteomics of substrates digested with purified human liver lysosomal cathepsin D provided direct evidence for proteolysis within densely O-glycosylated domains. Finally, knockout of cathepsin D in a murine model of the human lysosomal storage disorder neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis 10 resulted in accumulation of mucins in liver-resident macrophages. Our findings imply that mucin-degrading activity is a component of endogenous pathways for glycoprotein catabolism in mammalian tissues.
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22
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Mucins and CFTR: Their Close Relationship. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810232. [PMID: 36142171 PMCID: PMC9499620 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucociliary clearance is a critical defense mechanism for the lungs governed by regionally coordinated epithelial cellular activities, including mucin secretion, cilia beating, and transepithelial ion transport. Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal genetic disorder caused by the dysfunction of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel, is characterized by failed mucociliary clearance due to abnormal mucus biophysical properties. In recent years, with the development of highly effective modulator therapies, the quality of life of a significant number of people living with CF has greatly improved; however, further understanding the cellular biology relevant to CFTR and airway mucus biochemical interactions are necessary to develop novel therapies aimed at restoring CFTR gene expression in the lungs. In this article, we discuss recent advances of transcriptome analysis at single-cell levels that revealed a heretofore unanticipated close relationship between secretory MUC5AC and MUC5B mucins and CFTR in the lungs. In addition, we review recent findings on airway mucus biochemical and biophysical properties, focusing on how mucin secretion and CFTR-mediated ion transport are integrated to maintain airway mucus homeostasis in health and how CFTR dysfunction and restoration of function affect mucus properties.
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23
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Carbon nanoparticles adversely affect CFTR expression and toxicologically relevant pathways. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14255. [PMID: 35995803 PMCID: PMC9395428 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18098-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) that can lead to terminal respiratory failure. Ultrafine carbonaceous particles, which are ubiquitous in ambient urban and indoor air, are increasingly considered as major contributors to the global health burden of air pollution. However, their effects on the expression of CFTR and associated genes in lung epithelial cells have not yet been investigated. We therefore evaluated the effects of carbon nanoparticles (CNP), generated by spark-ablation, on the human bronchial epithelial cell line 16HBE14o− at air–liquid interface (ALI) culture conditions. The ALI-cultured cells exhibited epithelial barrier integrity and increased CFTR expression. Following a 4-h exposure to CNP, the cells exhibited a decreased barrier integrity, as well as decreased expression of CFTR transcript and protein levels. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis revealed that the CNP-exposed cells showed signs of oxidative stress, apoptosis and DNA damage. In conclusion, this study describes spark-ablated carbon nanoparticles in a realistic exposure of aerosols to decrease CFTR expression accompanied by transcriptomic signs of oxidative stress, apoptosis and DNA damage.
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24
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Figueira MF, Ribeiro CMP, Button B. Mucus-targeting therapies of defective mucus clearance for cystic fibrosis: A short review. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2022; 65:102248. [PMID: 35689870 PMCID: PMC9891491 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2022.102248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
In the lungs, defective CFTR associated with cystic fibrosis (CF) represents the nidus for abnormal mucus clearance in the airways and consequently a progressive lung disease. Defective CFTR-mediated Cl- secretion results in altered mucus properties, including concentration, viscoelasticity, and the ratio of the two mucins, MUC5B and MUC5AC. In the past decades, therapies targeting the CF mucus defect, directly or indirectly, have been developed; nevertheless, better treatments to prevent the disease progression are still needed. This review summarizes the existing knowledge on the defective mucus in CF disease and highlights it as a barrier to the development of future inhaled genetic therapies. The use of new mucus-targeting treatments is also discussed, focusing on their potential role to halt the progress of CF lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Frankenthal Figueira
- Marsico Lung Institute/Cystic Fibrosis Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7248, USA
| | - Carla M. P. Ribeiro
- Marsico Lung Institute/Cystic Fibrosis Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7248, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7248, USA.,Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7248, USA
| | - Brian Button
- Marsico Lung Institute/Cystic Fibrosis Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7248, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7248, USA
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25
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Magalhães AP, França A, Pereira MO, Cerca N. Unveiling Co-Infection in Cystic Fibrosis Airways: Transcriptomic Analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus Dual-Species Biofilms. Front Genet 2022; 13:883199. [PMID: 35873457 PMCID: PMC9298864 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.883199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Patrícia Magalhães
- LIBRO-Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal.,LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Angela França
- LIBRO-Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal.,LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Maria Olívia Pereira
- LIBRO-Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal.,LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Nuno Cerca
- LIBRO-Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal.,LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
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26
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Emerging Concepts in Defective Macrophage Phagocytosis in Cystic Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147750. [PMID: 35887098 PMCID: PMC9319215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Chronic inflammation and decline in lung function are major reasons for morbidity in CF. Mutant CFTR expressed in phagocytic cells such as macrophages contributes to persistent infection, inflammation, and lung disease in CF. Macrophages play a central role in innate immunity by eliminating pathogenic microbes by a process called phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is required for tissue homeostasis, balancing inflammation, and crosstalk with the adaptive immune system for antigen presentation. This review focused on (1) current understandings of the signaling underlying phagocytic mechanisms; (2) existing evidence for phagocytic dysregulation in CF; and (3) the emerging role of CFTR modulators in influencing CF phagocytic function. Alterations in CF macrophages from receptor initiation to phagosome formation are linked to disease progression in CF. A deeper understanding of macrophages in the context of CFTR and phagocytosis proteins at each step of phagosome formation might contribute to the new therapeutic development of dysregulated innate immunity in CF. Therefore, the review also indicates future areas of research in the context of CFTR and macrophages.
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27
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Neff SL, Hampton TH, Puerner C, Cengher L, Doing G, Lee AJ, Koeppen K, Cheung AL, Hogan DA, Cramer RA, Stanton BA. CF-Seq, an accessible web application for rapid re-analysis of cystic fibrosis pathogen RNA sequencing studies. Sci Data 2022; 9:343. [PMID: 35710652 PMCID: PMC9203545 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Researchers studying cystic fibrosis (CF) pathogens have produced numerous RNA-seq datasets which are available in the gene expression omnibus (GEO). Although these studies are publicly available, substantial computational expertise and manual effort are required to compare similar studies, visualize gene expression patterns within studies, and use published data to generate new experimental hypotheses. Furthermore, it is difficult to filter available studies by domain-relevant attributes such as strain, treatment, or media, or for a researcher to assess how a specific gene responds to various experimental conditions across studies. To reduce these barriers to data re-analysis, we have developed an R Shiny application called CF-Seq, which works with a compendium of 128 studies and 1,322 individual samples from 13 clinically relevant CF pathogens. The application allows users to filter studies by experimental factors and to view complex differential gene expression analyses at the click of a button. Here we present a series of use cases that demonstrate the application is a useful and efficient tool for new hypothesis generation. (CF-Seq: http://scangeo.dartmouth.edu/CFSeq/ ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel L Neff
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | | | - Charles Puerner
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Liviu Cengher
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Georgia Doing
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | | | - Katja Koeppen
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | | | - Deborah A Hogan
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Robert A Cramer
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Bruce A Stanton
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA.
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28
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Qin S, Tang X, Chen Y, Chen K, Fan N, Xiao W, Zheng Q, Li G, Teng Y, Wu M, Song X. mRNA-based therapeutics: powerful and versatile tools to combat diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:166. [PMID: 35597779 PMCID: PMC9123296 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01007-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 76.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic use of messenger RNA (mRNA) has fueled great hope to combat a wide range of incurable diseases. Recent rapid advances in biotechnology and molecular medicine have enabled the production of almost any functional protein/peptide in the human body by introducing mRNA as a vaccine or therapeutic agent. This represents a rising precision medicine field with great promise for preventing and treating many intractable or genetic diseases. In addition, in vitro transcribed mRNA has achieved programmed production, which is more effective, faster in design and production, as well as more flexible and cost-effective than conventional approaches that may offer. Based on these extraordinary advantages, mRNA vaccines have the characteristics of the swiftest response to large-scale outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as the currently devastating pandemic COVID-19. It has always been the scientists’ desire to improve the stability, immunogenicity, translation efficiency, and delivery system to achieve efficient and safe delivery of mRNA. Excitingly, these scientific dreams have gradually been realized with the rapid, amazing achievements of molecular biology, RNA technology, vaccinology, and nanotechnology. In this review, we comprehensively describe mRNA-based therapeutics, including their principles, manufacture, application, effects, and shortcomings. We also highlight the importance of mRNA optimization and delivery systems in successful mRNA therapeutics and discuss the key challenges and opportunities in developing these tools into powerful and versatile tools to combat many genetic, infectious, cancer, and other refractory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shugang Qin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoshan Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kepan Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Na Fan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Zheng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guohong Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuqing Teng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, USA
| | - Xiangrong Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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29
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Keith JD, Henderson AG, Fernandez-Petty CM, Davis JM, Oden AM, Birket SE. Muc5b Contributes to Mucus Abnormality in Rat Models of Cystic Fibrosis. Front Physiol 2022; 13:884166. [PMID: 35574458 PMCID: PMC9096080 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.884166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) airway disease is characterized by excessive and accumulative mucus in the airways. Mucociliary clearance becomes defective as mucus secretions become hyperconcentrated and viscosity increases. The CFTR-knockout (KO) rat has been previously shown to progressively develop delayed mucociliary transport, secondary to increased viscoelasticity of airway secretions. The humanized-G551D CFTR rat model has demonstrated that abnormal mucociliary clearance and hyperviscosity is reversed by ivacaftor treatment. In this study, we sought to identify the components of mucus that changes as the rat ages to contribute to these abnormalities. We found that Muc5b concentrations, and to a lesser extent Muc5ac, in the airway were increased in the KO rat compared to WT, and that Muc5b concentration was directly related to the viscosity of the mucus. Additionally, we found that methacholine administration to the airway exacerbates these characteristics of disease in the KO, but not WT rat trachea. Lastly we determined that at 6 months of age, CF rats had mucus that was adherent to the airway epithelium, a process that is reversed by ivacaftor therapy in the hG551D rat. Overall, these data indicate that accumulation of Muc5b initiates the muco-obstructive process in the CF lung prior to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnathan D Keith
- Department of Medicine, Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Alexander G Henderson
- Department of Medicine, Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Courtney M Fernandez-Petty
- Department of Medicine, Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Joy M Davis
- Department of Medicine, Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Ashley M Oden
- Department of Medicine, Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Susan E Birket
- Department of Medicine, Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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30
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Wang F, Panjwani N, Wang C, Sun L, Strug LJ. A flexible summary statistics-based colocalization method with application to the mucin cystic fibrosis lung disease modifier locus. Am J Hum Genet 2022; 109:253-269. [PMID: 35065708 PMCID: PMC8874229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucus obstruction is a central feature in the cystic fibrosis (CF) airways. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of lung disease by the CF Gene Modifier Consortium (CFGMC) identified a significant locus containing two mucin genes, MUC20 and MUC4. Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis using human nasal epithelia (HNE) from 94 CF-affected Canadians in the CFGMC demonstrated MUC4 eQTLs that mirrored the lung association pattern in the region, suggesting that MUC4 expression may mediate CF lung disease. Complications arose, however, with colocalization testing using existing methods: the locus is complex and the associated SNPs span a 0.2 Mb region with high linkage disequilibrium (LD) and evidence of allelic heterogeneity. We previously developed the Simple Sum (SS), a powerful colocalization test in regions with allelic heterogeneity, but SS assumed eQTLs to be present to achieve type I error control. Here we propose a two-stage SS (SS2) colocalization test that avoids a priori eQTL assumptions, accounts for multiple hypothesis testing and the composite null hypothesis, and enables meta-analysis. We compare SS2 to published approaches through simulation and demonstrate type I error control for all settings with the greatest power in the presence of high LD and allelic heterogeneity. Applying SS2 to the MUC20/MUC4 CF lung disease locus with eQTLs from CF HNE revealed significant colocalization with MUC4 (p = 1.31 × 10−5) rather than with MUC20. The SS2 is a powerful method to inform the responsible gene(s) at a locus and guide future functional studies. SS2 has been implemented in the application LocusFocus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wang
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z5, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Naim Panjwani
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Cheng Wang
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Lei Sun
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z5, Canada; Biostatistics Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Lisa J Strug
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z5, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Biostatistics Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2E4, Canada; The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.
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31
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Tony-Odigie A, Wilke L, Boutin S, Dalpke AH, Yi B. Commensal Bacteria in the Cystic Fibrosis Airway Microbiome Reduce P. aeruginosa Induced Inflammation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:824101. [PMID: 35174108 PMCID: PMC8842722 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.824101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections play an important role in the progress of lung disease in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF). Recent studies indicate that polymicrobial microbiome profiles in the airway are associated with less inflammation. Thus, the hypothesis was raised that certain commensal bacteria might protect the host from inflammation. We therefore performed a screening study with commensals isolated from CF airway microbiome samples to identify potential beneficial commensals. We isolated more than 80 aerobic or facultative anaerobic commensal strains, including strains from genera Streptococcus, Neisseria, Actinomyces, Corynebacterium, Dermabacter, Micrococcus and Rothia. Through a screening experiment of co-infection in human epithelial cell lines, we identified multiple commensal strains, especially strains belonging to Streptococcus mitis, that reduced P. aeruginosa triggered inflammatory responses. The results were confirmed by co-infection experiments in ex-vivo precision cut lung slices (PCLS) from mice. The underlying mechanisms of the complex host-pathogen-commensal crosstalk were investigated from both the host and the bacterial sides with a focus on S. mitis. Transcriptome changes in the host in response to co-infection and mono-infection were evaluated, and the results indicated that several signalling pathways mediating inflammatory responses were downregulated by co-infection with S. mitis and P. aeruginosa compared to P. aeruginosa mono-infection, such as neutrophil extracellular trap formation. The genomic differences among S. mitis strains with and without protective effects were investigated by whole genome sequencing, revealing genes only present in the S. mitis strains showing protective effects. In summary, through both in vitro and ex vivo studies, we could identify a variety of commensal strains that may reduce host inflammatory responses induced by P. aeruginosa infection. These findings support the hypothesis that CF airway commensals may protect the host from inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Tony-Odigie
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Leonie Wilke
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sébastien Boutin
- Translational Lung Research Center (TLRC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander H. Dalpke
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Buqing Yi
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- *Correspondence: Buqing Yi,
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32
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Dhasmana A, Dhasmana S, Kotnala S, A A, Kashyap VK, Shaji PD, Laskar P, Khan S, Pellicano R, Fagoonee S, Haque S, Yallapu MM, Chauhan SC, Jaggi M. A topography of immunotherapies against gastrointestinal malignancies. Panminerva Med 2021; 64:56-71. [PMID: 34664484 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.21.04541-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Although various approaches are implemented to improve the health condition of GI patients, none of the treatment protocols promise for eradicating cancer. However, a treatment mechanism against any kind of disease condition is already existing executing inside the human body. The 'immune system' is highly efficient to detect and destroy the unfavourable events of the body including tumor cells. The immune system can restrict the growth and proliferation of cancer. Cancer cells behave much smarter and adopt new mechanisms for hiding from the immune cells. Thus, cancer immunotherapy might play a decisive role to train the immune system against cancer. In this review, we have discussed the immunotherapy permitted for the treatment of GI cancers. We have discussed various methods and mechanisms, periodic development of cancer immunotherapies, approved biologicals, completed and ongoing clinical trials, role of various biopharmaceuticals, and epigenetic factors involved in GI cancer immunotherapies (graphical abstract Figure 1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupam Dhasmana
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,Department of Biosciences and Cancer Research Institute, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Swati Dhasmana
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Sudhir Kotnala
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Anukriti A
- Department of Biosciences, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Mody University, Lakshamgarh, Rajasthan, India
| | - Vivek K Kashyap
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Poornima D Shaji
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Partha Laskar
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Sheema Khan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | | | - Sharmila Fagoonee
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging (CNR), Molecular Biotechnology Center, Turin, Italy
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.,Bursa Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine, Görükle Campus, Nilüfer, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Murali M Yallapu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Subhash C Chauhan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
| | - Meena Jaggi
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA - meena.jaggi @utrgv.edu.,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, USA
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33
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Impact of artificial sputum media formulation on Pseudomonas aeruginosa secondary metabolite production. J Bacteriol 2021; 203:e0025021. [PMID: 34398662 PMCID: PMC8508215 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00250-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro culture media are being developed to understand how host site-specific nutrient profiles influence microbial pathogenicity and ecology. To mimic the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung environment, a variety of artificial sputum media (ASM) have been created. However, the composition of these ASM vary in the concentration of key nutrients, including amino acids, lipids, DNA, and mucin. In this work, we used feature-based molecular networking (FBMN) to perform comparative metabolomics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the predominant opportunistic pathogen infecting the lungs of people with CF, cultured in nine different ASM. We found that the concentration of aromatic amino acids and iron from mucin added to the media contributes to differences in the production of P. aeruginosa virulence-associated secondary metabolites. IMPORTANCE Different media formulations aiming to replicate in vivo infection environments contain different nutrients, which affects interpretation of experimental results. Inclusion of undefined components, such as commercial porcine gastric mucin (PGM), in an otherwise chemically defined medium can alter the nutrient content of the medium in unexpected ways and influence experimental outcomes.
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34
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Testing physiologically relevant conditions in minimal inhibitory concentration assays. Nat Protoc 2021; 16:3761-3774. [PMID: 34215865 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00572-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay uses agar or broth dilution methods to measure, under defined test conditions, the lowest effective concentration of an antimicrobial agent that inhibits visible growth of a bacterium of interest. This assay is used to test the susceptibilities of bacterial isolates and of novel antimicrobial drugs, and is typically done in nutrient-rich laboratory media that have little relevance to in vivo conditions. As an extension to our original protocol on MIC assays (also published in Nature Protocols), here we describe the application of the MIC broth microdilution assay to test antimicrobial susceptibility in conditions that are more physiologically relevant to infections observed in the clinic. Specifically, we describe a platform that can be applied to the preparation of medium that mimics lung and wound exudate or blood conditions for the growth and susceptibility testing of bacteria, including ESKAPE pathogens. This protocol can also be applied to most physiologically relevant liquid medium and aerobic pathogens, and takes 3-4 d to complete.
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Puccetti M, Pariano M, Renga G, Santarelli I, D’Onofrio F, Bellet MM, Stincardini C, Bartoli A, Costantini C, Romani L, Ricci M, Giovagnoli S. Targeted Drug Delivery Technologies Potentiate the Overall Therapeutic Efficacy of an Indole Derivative in a Mouse Cystic Fibrosis Setting. Cells 2021; 10:1601. [PMID: 34202407 PMCID: PMC8305708 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays a major role in the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis (CF), a multisystem disease. Anti-inflammatory therapies are, therefore, of interest in CF, provided that the inhibition of inflammation does not compromise the ability to fight pathogens. Here, we assess whether indole-3-aldehyde (3-IAld), a ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), may encompass such an activity. We resorted to biopharmaceutical technologies in order to deliver 3-IAld directly into the lung, via dry powder inhalation, or into the gut, via enteric microparticles, in murine models of CF infection and inflammation. We found the site-specific delivery of 3-IAld to be an efficient strategy to restore immune and microbial homeostasis in CF organs, and mitigate lung and gut inflammatory pathology in response to fungal infections, in the relative absence of local and systemic inflammatory toxicity. Thus, enhanced delivery to target organs of AhR agonists, such as 3-IAld, may pave the way for the development of safe and effective anti-inflammatory agents in CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Puccetti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Marilena Pariano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Giorgia Renga
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Ilaria Santarelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Fiorella D’Onofrio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Marina M. Bellet
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Claudia Stincardini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Andrea Bartoli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Claudio Costantini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Luigina Romani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (M.P.); (G.R.); (I.S.); (F.D.); (M.M.B.); (C.S.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Maurizio Ricci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Stefano Giovagnoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy;
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Birk SE, Serioli L, Cavallo V, Haagensen JAJ, Molin S, Nielsen LH, Zór K, Boisen A. Enhanced Eradication of Mucin-Embedded Bacterial Biofilm by Locally Delivered Antibiotics in Functionalized Microcontainers. Macromol Biosci 2021; 21:e2100150. [PMID: 34117842 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202100150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial biofilm-related infections are difficult to eradicate and require repeated treatments with high doses of antibiotics. Thus, there is an urgent need for new treatment strategies that minimize the use of antibiotics while enhancing biofilm eradication. Functionalized reservoir-based microdevices, such as, microcontainers (MCs), offer, high drug loading capacity, mucus embedment, and tuneable drug release. Here, MCs are loaded with the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP), and sealed with a lid consisting of chitosan (CHI) and a mucolytic agent, N-acetylcysteine (NAC). It is found that CHI and NAC work synergistically, showing improved mucoadhesive and mucolytic properties. To better mimic the in vivo habitat of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), the biofilm is grown in a mucin-containing medium on a newly developed centrifugal microfluidic system. The CHI/NAC coated MCs improve eradication of biofilm (88.22 ± 2.89%) compared to CHI-coated MCs (72.68 ± 3.73%) or bolus injection (39.86 ± 13.28%). The findings suggest that MCs are significantly more efficient than a bolus treatment. Furthermore, CHI/NAC functionalized MCs kill most of the biomass already after 5 h (80.75 ± 3.50%), mainly due to a fast drug release. This is the first time that CHI/NAC has been combined as a coating to explore mucolytic properties on bacterial biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine Egebro Birk
- The Danish National Research Foundation and Villum Foundation's Center for Intelligent Drug Delivery and Sensing Using Microcontainers and Nanomechanics (IDUN), Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads 345C, Lyngby, 2800 Kgs., Denmark
| | - Laura Serioli
- The Danish National Research Foundation and Villum Foundation's Center for Intelligent Drug Delivery and Sensing Using Microcontainers and Nanomechanics (IDUN), Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads 345C, Lyngby, 2800 Kgs., Denmark.,BioInnovation Institute Foundation, Copenhagen N, 2800, Denmark
| | - Valentina Cavallo
- The Danish National Research Foundation and Villum Foundation's Center for Intelligent Drug Delivery and Sensing Using Microcontainers and Nanomechanics (IDUN), Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads 345C, Lyngby, 2800 Kgs., Denmark
| | - Janus Anders Juul Haagensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 220, Lyngby, 2800, Denmark
| | - Søren Molin
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 220, Lyngby, 2800, Denmark
| | - Line Hagner Nielsen
- The Danish National Research Foundation and Villum Foundation's Center for Intelligent Drug Delivery and Sensing Using Microcontainers and Nanomechanics (IDUN), Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads 345C, Lyngby, 2800 Kgs., Denmark
| | - Kinga Zór
- The Danish National Research Foundation and Villum Foundation's Center for Intelligent Drug Delivery and Sensing Using Microcontainers and Nanomechanics (IDUN), Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads 345C, Lyngby, 2800 Kgs., Denmark.,BioInnovation Institute Foundation, Copenhagen N, 2800, Denmark
| | - Anja Boisen
- The Danish National Research Foundation and Villum Foundation's Center for Intelligent Drug Delivery and Sensing Using Microcontainers and Nanomechanics (IDUN), Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads 345C, Lyngby, 2800 Kgs., Denmark.,BioInnovation Institute Foundation, Copenhagen N, 2800, Denmark
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37
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Xu-Chen X, Weinstock J, Rastogi D, Koumbourlis A, Nino G. The airway epithelium during infancy and childhood: A complex multicellular immune barrier. Basic review for clinicians. Paediatr Respir Rev 2021; 38:9-15. [PMID: 34030977 PMCID: PMC8859843 DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The airway epithelium is a complex multicellular layer that extends from the nasopharynx to the small airways. It functions as an immune respiratory barrier during early life that develops, matures, and regenerates to adapt to the changes in the environment. While airway epithelial abnormalities have been identified in several clinical disorders, there is increasing interest in understanding its basic regulation and structure in humans. Indeed, recent advances in technology (e.g. single-cell analysis and new human airway epithelial cell models) have allowed us to identify additional cellular subtypes and functions that overall have greatly improved our understanding of the airway epithelium during health and disease. In this review we summarize key features of the airway epithelium including: 1) multilayer structure and cell heterogeneity; 2) adaptability to different environmental and developmental stimuli; 3) innate recognition; and 4) orchestration of immune responses. We discuss these features with a translational and clinical prospective focusing on the development of human respiratory immunity, particularly during early life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Gustavo Nino
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Children's National Hospital, George Washington University, Washington, D.C, USA.
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38
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Yi B, Dalpke AH, Boutin S. Changes in the Cystic Fibrosis Airway Microbiome in Response to CFTR Modulator Therapy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:548613. [PMID: 33816324 PMCID: PMC8010178 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.548613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of CFTR modulator therapies significantly changed the treatment scheme of people with cystic fibrosis. However, CFTR modulator therapy is still a life-long treatment, which is not able to correct the genetic defect and cure the disease. Therefore, it becomes crucial to understand the effects of such modulation of CFTR function on the airway physiology, especially on airway infections and inflammation that are currently the major life-limiting factors in people with cystic fibrosis. In this context, understanding the dynamics of airway microbiome changes in response to modulator therapy plays an essential role in developing strategies for managing airway infections. Whether and how the newly available therapies affect the airway microbiome is still at the beginning of being deciphered. We present here a brief review summarizing the latest information about microbiome alterations in light of modern cystic fibrosis modulator therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buqing Yi
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander H Dalpke
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sébastien Boutin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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39
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Pathophysiology of Lung Disease and Wound Repair in Cystic Fibrosis. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 28:155-188. [PMID: 35366275 PMCID: PMC8830450 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology28010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive, life-threatening condition affecting many organs and tissues, the lung disease being the chief cause of morbidity and mortality. Mutations affecting the CF Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene determine the expression of a dysfunctional protein that, in turn, triggers a pathophysiological cascade, leading to airway epithelium injury and remodeling. In vitro and in vivo studies point to a dysregulated regeneration and wound repair in CF airways, to be traced back to epithelial CFTR lack/dysfunction. Subsequent altered ion/fluid fluxes and/or signaling result in reduced cell migration and proliferation. Furthermore, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition appears to be partially triggered in CF, contributing to wound closure alteration. Finally, we pose our attention to diverse approaches to tackle this defect, discussing the therapeutic role of protease inhibitors, CFTR modulators and mesenchymal stem cells. Although the pathophysiology of wound repair in CF has been disclosed in some mechanisms, further studies are warranted to understand the cellular and molecular events in more details and to better address therapeutic interventions.
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40
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Banjar H, Qeretli R, Ramadan A, Al-Ibraheem A, Bnatig F. The first report on CFTR mutations of meconium ileus in cystic fibrosis population in Saudi Arabia: A single center review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS AND ADOLESCENT MEDICINE 2021; 9:32-35. [PMID: 35573065 PMCID: PMC9072234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpam.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Meconium ileus (MI) is one of the most common causes of intestinal obstruction in newborns. It is the earliest clinical manifestation of cystic fibrosis (CF). MI is suspected if a baby fails to pass meconium shortly after birth and develops symptoms of bowel obstruction, such as distention of the abdomen or vomiting. MI can lead to bowel perforation, a twisting of the bowel, or inflammation and infection of the abdominal cavity. Objectives To find the incidence and prevalence of meconium ileus in cystic fibrosis patients and to report on the most common gene mutation of MI in CF patients. Methodology Retrospective review of the medical documentations of all MI patients during the period of 1989–2018. Results A total of 40 CF confirmed patients were presented with MI. Twenty-nine patients (71%) are alive and 11 patients (29%) died or lost to follow-up. The following CFTR mutations were found: Eight patients (20%) with c.2988+1G>A; Intron 18. Seven patients (17.5%) with c.1418delG; Exon 11. Five patients (12.5%) with c.579+1G>T; Intron 5. Four patients (10%) with c.1911delG; Exon 14. Four patients (10%) with c.1521_1523delCTT; Exon 11. Four patients (10%) with c.416A>T; Exon 13. Three patients (7.5%) with c.2421A>G; Exon 14. Two patients (5%) with c.3908A>C; Exon 21. One patient (2.5%) with c.3889dupT; Exon 24. One patient (2.5%) with c.1657C>T; Exon 12. One patient (2.5%) with c.2547C>A; Exon 14a. Eighteen patients (45%) were presented with vomiting, 38 patients (95%) had postnatal radiological findings, 7 patients (17.5%) had electrolytes imbalance. Five patients (12.5%) had cholestasis and 4 patients (10%) developed chronic liver disease. Thirty-five patients (79.5%) underwent surgical repair and 9 patients (20.5%) were treated medically. Mean age of operation was 2.25 (2) days. Of 9 patients, 6 (66.6%) were treated with gastrograffin enema, 2 patients (22.2%) with oral N-acetylcysteine and 1 patient (11.1%) with saline rectal wash. Thirteen patients (31.5%) required TPN. Five patients had recurrent operation. Conclusion CF and meconium ileus are commonly present in CF patients in Saudi Arabia. Prognosis is similar to other CFs without MI, if treated early. Thirty percent of our CF/MI patients have intronic mutations.
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41
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Khan MA, Khan ZA, Charles M, Pratap P, Naeem A, Siddiqui Z, Naqvi N, Srivastava S. Cytokine Storm and Mucus Hypersecretion in COVID-19: Review of Mechanisms. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:175-189. [PMID: 33519225 PMCID: PMC7838037 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s271292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucus is an integral part of the respiratory physiology. It protects the respiratory tract by acting as a physical barrier against inhaled particles and microbes. Excessive inflammation in conditions such as COVID-19 can result in over-production of mucus which obstructs the airway. Build-up of mucus can also contribute to recurrent airway infection, causing further obstruction. This article summarizes the current understanding and knowledge of respiratory mucus production and proposes the role of cytokine storm in inducing sudden mucus hypersecretion in COVID-19. Based on these cascades, the active constituents that inhibit or activate several potential targets are outlined for further research. These may be explored for the discovery and design of drugs to combat cytokine storm and its ensuing complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Ali Khan
- Reseach & Development Department, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Zaw Ali Khan
- Reseach & Development Department, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mark Charles
- Metabolic Research Unit, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pushpendra Pratap
- Metabolic Research Unit, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abdul Naeem
- Metabolic Research Unit, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Zainab Siddiqui
- Department of Pathology, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nigar Naqvi
- Department of Nutrition, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shikha Srivastava
- Department of Nutrition, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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42
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Michalski JE, Schwartz DA. Genetic Risk Factors for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Insights into Immunopathogenesis. J Inflamm Res 2021; 13:1305-1318. [PMID: 33447070 PMCID: PMC7801923 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s280958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an etiologically complex interstitial lung disease characterized by progressive scarring of the lungs with a subsequent decline in lung function. While much of the pathogenesis of IPF still remains unclear, it is now understood that genetic variation accounts for at least one-third of the risk of developing the disease. The single-most validated and most significant risk factor, genetic or otherwise, is a gain-of-function promoter variant in the MUC5B gene. While the functional impact of these IPF risk variants at the cellular and tissue levels are areas of active investigation, there is a growing body of evidence that these genetic variants may influence disease pathogenesis through modulation of innate immune processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob E Michalski
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David A Schwartz
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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43
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Ishibashi J, Saito K, Ishizaki T, Horie I, Isohama Y. Ibudilast Suppresses MUC5AC Mucus Production through Inhibition of ERK1/2 Phosphorylation. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:404-409. [PMID: 33642548 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b20-00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Mucus hypersecretion is a hallmark of respiratory diseases, and excess airway mucus can worsen these conditions. Therefore, it is important to control the production of airway mucus in the treatment of respiratory diseases. The phosphodiesterase inhibitor ibudilast has been reported to be effective in treating sputum and postnasal drip in patients with chronic airway inflammation. On the basis of the hypothesis that ibudilast could inhibit mucus production in the airway, in the present study, we examined the effects of ibudilast on the production of MUC5AC, a major protein component of mucus. In in vitro studies using NCI-H292 cells, ibudilast suppressed MUC5AC production induced by various stimuli. In addition, ibudilast inhibited extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 phosphorylation and MUC5AC gene transcription. Furthermore, it attenuated MUC5AC production and Muc5ac mRNA expression in lipopolysaccharide-treated mice in vivo. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that ibudilast has an inhibitory effect on mucus production, which could at least partly be attributed to the inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and the repression of MUC5AC gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jumpei Ishibashi
- Laboratory of Applied Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Kana Saito
- Laboratory of Applied Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Takako Ishizaki
- Laboratory of Applied Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
| | - Ichiro Horie
- Laboratory for Systems Immunology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sanyo-Onoda City University
| | - Yoichiro Isohama
- Laboratory of Applied Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science
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44
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A bird eye view on cystic fibrosis: An underestimated multifaceted chronic disorder. Life Sci 2020; 268:118959. [PMID: 33383045 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease which involves the mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. CF involves in the inflammatory processes and is considered as a multisystem disorder that is not confined to lungs, but it also affects other vital organs that leads to numerous co-morbidities. The respiratory disorder in the CF results in mortality and morbidity which is characterized by series of serious events involving mucus hypersecretion, microbial infections, airways obstruction, inflammation, destruction of epithelium, tissue remodeling and terminal lung diseases. Mucins are the high molecular weight glycoproteins important for the viscoelastic properties of the mucus, play a significant role in the disease mechanisms. Determining the functional association between the CFTR and mucins might help to identify the putative target for specific therapeutic approach. In fact, furin enzyme which helps in the entry of novel COVID-19 virus into the cell, is upregulated in CF and this can also serve as a potential target for CF treatment. Moreover, the use of nano-formulations for CF treatment is an area of research being widely studied as they have also demonstrated promising outcomes. The in-depth knowledge of non-coding RNAs like miRNAs and lncRNAs and their functional association with CFTR gene expression and mutation can provide a different range of opportunity to identify the promising therapeutic approaches for CF.
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45
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Material properties of interfacial films of mucoid and nonmucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. Acta Biomater 2020; 118:129-140. [PMID: 33053427 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Chronic lung infection with bacterial biofilms is a leading cause of death in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, one of the many species colonizing the lung airways, can undergo pathoadaptation, leading to a mucoid phenotype with interesting material properties. We hypothesize that the surface properties and extracellular materials of mucoid P. aeruginosa cells greatly influence the mechanical behavior of their films at fluid interfaces. In this study, we investigate the interfacial properties of films formed by nonmucoid (PANT) and mucoid (PASL) strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from CF patients. We use pendant drop elastometry to analyze the interfacial response of the films formed by PANT and PASL at the hexadecane-water interface. The dynamic rheological analyses of the films highlight the distinctive signature of the mucoid strains at fluid interfaces. The mucoid films exhibit greater relaxation following a compressive strain than a tensile one, while a full hysteresis response is achieved by the nonmucoid films; this indicates that the material properties of the PANT films are conserved under both compression and tension. The wrinkling and shape analyses of the interfacial bacterial films elucidate that the mucoid strain exhibits remarkable viscoelastic properties, enabling the remodeling of the living films and dissipation of the compressive stress. The comparative analysis of the material properties of mucoid and nonmucoid P. aeruginosa cells indicates that mucoid switch can play an important role in protecting the bacteria from interfacial stresses. Further characterization of interfacial bacterial films will provide new insights into the development of methods for controlling interfacial films of bacteria.
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Jaques R, Shakeel A, Hoyle C. Novel therapeutic approaches for the management of cystic fibrosis. Multidiscip Respir Med 2020; 15:690. [PMID: 33282281 PMCID: PMC7706361 DOI: 10.4081/mrm.2020.690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition characterised by the build-up of thick, sticky mucus that can damage many of the body's organs. It is a life-long disease that results in a shortened life expectancy, often due to the progression of advanced lung disease. Treatment has previously targeted the downstream symptoms such as diminished mucus clearance and recurrent infection. More recently, significant advances have been made in treating the cause of the disease by targeting the faulty gene responsible. Hope for the development of potential therapies lies with ongoing research into new pharmacological agents and gene therapy. This review gives an overview of CF, and summarises the current evidence regarding the disease management and upcoming strategies aimed at treating or potentially curing this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Jaques
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, UK
| | - Arslan Shakeel
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, UK
| | - Cameron Hoyle
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, UK
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Observations of, and Insights into, Cystic Fibrosis Mucus Heterogeneity in the Pre-Modulator Era: Sputum Characteristics, DNA and Glycoprotein Content, and Solubilization Time. JOURNAL OF RESPIRATION 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/jor1010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] Open
Abstract
Airway obstruction with chronic inflammation and infection are major contributors to the lung damage and mortality of cystic fibrosis (CF). A better understanding of the congested milieu of CF airways will aid in improving therapeutic strategies. This article retrospectively reports our observations, and discusses insights gained in the handling and analysis of CF sputa. CF and non-CF mucus samples were surveyed for morphological features by electron microscopy and analyzed for the macromolecular dry weight (MDW), total protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and DNA. Mucus character was investigated with chemical solubilization time as a comparative tool. CF mucus appeared distinctly thick, viscous, and heterogeneous, with neutrophils as the dominant immune cell. CF sputum DNA content varied markedly for and between individuals (~1–10% MDW), as did solubilization times (~1–20 h). CF Sputum DNA up to 7.1% MDW correlated positively with solubilization time, whereas DNA >7.1% MDW correlated negatively. 3D analysis of CF sputa DNA, GP, and solubilization times revealed a dynamic and predictive relationship. Reflecting on the heterogeneous content and character of CF mucus, and the possible interplay in space and time in the respiratory tract of polymeric DNA and mucous glycoproteins, we highlight it’s potential to affect infection-related airway pathologies and the success of therapeutic interventions.
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Flynn S, Reen FJ, Caparrós-Martín JA, Woods DF, Peplies J, Ranganathan SC, Stick SM, O’Gara F. Bile Acid Signal Molecules Associate Temporally with Respiratory Inflammation and Microbiome Signatures in Clinically Stable Cystic Fibrosis Patients. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111741. [PMID: 33172004 PMCID: PMC7694639 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a congenital disorder resulting in a multisystemic impairment in ion homeostasis. The subsequent alteration of electrochemical gradients severely compromises the function of the airway epithelia. These functional changes are accompanied by recurrent cycles of inflammation–infection that progressively lead to pulmonary insufficiency. Recent developments have pointed to the existence of a gut–lung axis connection, which may modulate the progression of lung disease. Molecular signals governing the interplay between these two organs are therefore candidate molecules requiring further clinical evaluation as potential biomarkers. We demonstrate a temporal association between bile acid (BA) metabolites and inflammatory markers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from clinically stable children with CF. By modelling the BALF-associated microbial communities, we demonstrate that profiles enriched in operational taxonomic units assigned to supraglottic taxa and opportunistic pathogens are closely associated with inflammatory biomarkers. Applying regression analyses, we also confirmed a linear link between BA concentration and pathogen abundance in BALF. Analysis of the time series data suggests that the continuous detection of BAs in BALF is linked to differential ecological succession trajectories of the lung microbiota. Our data provide further evidence supporting a role for BAs in the early pathogenesis and progression of CF lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Flynn
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (S.F.); (F.J.R.); (D.F.W.)
| | - F. Jerry Reen
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (S.F.); (F.J.R.); (D.F.W.)
| | - Jose A. Caparrós-Martín
- Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre. Telethon Kids Institute, 6009 Perth, Western Australia, Australia; (J.A.C.-M.); (S.M.S.)
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Curtin University, 6845 Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David F. Woods
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (S.F.); (F.J.R.); (D.F.W.)
| | - Jörg Peplies
- Ribocon GmbH, Fahrenheitstraße. 1, 28359 Bremen, Germany;
| | - Sarath C. Ranganathan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Royal Children’s Hospital, 3052 Melbourne, Australia;
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, 3052 Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, 3010 Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen M. Stick
- Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre. Telethon Kids Institute, 6009 Perth, Western Australia, Australia; (J.A.C.-M.); (S.M.S.)
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, 6009 Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Medicine, Perth Children’s Hospital, 6009 Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fergal O’Gara
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (S.F.); (F.J.R.); (D.F.W.)
- Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre. Telethon Kids Institute, 6009 Perth, Western Australia, Australia; (J.A.C.-M.); (S.M.S.)
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Curtin University, 6845 Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Niv Y, Ho SB, Rokkas T. Mucin Secretion in Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review. Dig Dis 2020; 39:375-381. [PMID: 33049746 DOI: 10.1159/000512268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucus protects the epithelium against invaders and toxic materials. Sticky and thick mucus is characteristic of CF. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review is to characterize the specific mucins secreted in the lung and intestinal tract of CF patients. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted up to December 31, 2019. The following terms were used: "cystic fibrosis" AND "mucin." Case-control studies comparing mucin expression in CF patients to healthy controls were included. RESULTS We found 741 eligible studies, 694 studies were rejected because they were performed in animals and not in full text, and 32 studies were excluded being editorials, duplications, review articles, meta-analysis, or not in English. Fifteen studies were eligible for our study, including 150 CF patients compared to 82 healthy controls, all fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The main mucin types expressed in the sinus submucosal glands, sputum, tracheobronchial surface epithelium, and lung submucosal glands were MUC5AC and MUC5B. Increase in the number of sinusoidal submucosal glands and expression of MUC5B was found in CF patients, but no such difference from healthy controls was found for the number of goblet cells in the surface epithelium nor in the expression of -MUC5AC. The opposite was found in the tracheobronchial surface epithelium and in the lungs. CONCLUSIONS Increased expression of MUC5AC in the surface epithelium and of MUC5B in the subepithelial glands may be the result of higher secretion rate of mucin into the lumen of the respiratory tract, causing mucus plaque, infection, and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Niv
- Ministry of Health, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Samuel B Ho
- Department of Clinical Research, MBRU College of Medicine, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Theodor Rokkas
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henry Durant Medical Center, Athens, Greece
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Cohen JD, Sparacio AP, Belfi AC, Forman-Rubinsky R, Hall DH, Maul-Newby H, Frand AR, Sundaram MV. A multi-layered and dynamic apical extracellular matrix shapes the vulva lumen in Caenorhabditis elegans. eLife 2020; 9:e57874. [PMID: 32975517 PMCID: PMC7544507 DOI: 10.7554/elife.57874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological tubes must develop and maintain their proper diameter to transport materials efficiently. These tubes are molded and protected in part by apical extracellular matrices (aECMs) that line their lumens. Despite their importance, aECMs are difficult to image in vivo and therefore poorly understood. The Caenorhabditis elegans vulva has been a paradigm for understanding many aspects of organogenesis. Here we describe the vulva luminal matrix, which contains chondroitin proteoglycans, Zona Pellucida (ZP) domain proteins, and other glycoproteins and lipid transporters related to those in mammals. Confocal and transmission electron microscopy revealed, with unprecedented detail, a complex and dynamic aECM. Different matrix factors assemble on the apical surfaces of each vulva cell type, with clear distinctions seen between Ras-dependent (1°) and Notch-dependent (2°) cell types. Genetic perturbations suggest that chondroitin and other aECM factors together generate a structured scaffold that both expands and constricts lumen shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Cohen
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Alessandro P Sparacio
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Alexandra C Belfi
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Rachel Forman-Rubinsky
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - David H Hall
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of MedicineBronxUnited States
| | - Hannah Maul-Newby
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Alison R Frand
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Meera V Sundaram
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
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