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Roth A, Tannert A, Ziller N, Eiserloh S, Göhrig B, Guliev RR, Gonzalez Vazquez MJ, Naumann M, Mosig AS, Stengel S, Heutelbeck ARR, Neugebauer U. Quantification of Polystyrene Uptake by Different Cell Lines Using Fluorescence Microscopy and Label-Free Visualization of Intracellular Polystyrene Particles by Raman Microspectroscopic Imaging. Cells 2024; 13:454. [PMID: 38474417 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Environmental pollution caused by plastic is a present problem. Polystyrene is a widely used packaging material (e.g., Styrofoam) that can be broken down into microplastics through abrasion. Once the plastic is released into the environment, it is dispersed by wind and atmospheric dust. In this study, we investigated the uptake of polystyrene particles into human cells using A549 cells as a model of the alveolar epithelial barrier, CaCo-2 cells as a model of the intestinal epithelial barrier, and THP-1 cells as a model of immune cells to simulate a possible uptake of microplastics by inhalation, oral uptake, and interaction with the cellular immune system, respectively. The uptake of fluorescence-labeled beads by the different cell types was investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy in a semi-quantitative, concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, we used Raman spectroscopy as a complementary method for label-free qualitative detection and the visualization of polystyrene within cells. The uptake of polystyrene beads by all investigated cell types was detected, while the uptake behavior of professional phagocytes (THP-1) differed from that of adherent epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Roth
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Astrid Tannert
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care and Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Nadja Ziller
- Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Simone Eiserloh
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care and Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Bianca Göhrig
- Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Rustam R Guliev
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - María José Gonzalez Vazquez
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care and Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Max Naumann
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Alexander S Mosig
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Sven Stengel
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Astrid R R Heutelbeck
- Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Ute Neugebauer
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care and Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
- Institute of Physical Chemistry and Abbe Center of Photonics, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
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2
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Laganà A, Visalli G, Facciolà A, Celesti C, Iannazzo D, Di Pietro A. Uptake of Breathable Nano- and Micro-Sized Polystyrene Particles: Comparison of Virgin and Oxidised nPS/mPS in Human Alveolar Cells. TOXICS 2023; 11:686. [PMID: 37624191 PMCID: PMC10459673 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Airborne micro- and nanoplastics are widely spread and pose a risk to human health. The third polymer plastic most commonly produced and present in atmospheric fallout is polystyrene (PS). For these reasons and for a more realistic assessment of biological effects, we examined in-home oxidised (ox-, simulating photoaging) nPS/mPS (0.1 and 1 μm), comparing the effects with virgin ones (v-). On human alveolar cells (A549), we quantified the cellular uptake, using FITC-functionalised nPS/mPS, while cytotoxicity, changes in the acidic compartment, ROS production, mitochondrial function, and DNA damage were assessed to study the effects of internalised v- and ox-nPS/mPS. The results showed that the uptake was dose-dependent and very fast (1 h), since, at the lowest dose (1.25 µg/well), it was 20.8% and 21.8% of nPS and mPS, respectively. Compared to v-, significant ROS increases, DNA damage, and mitochondrial impairment were observed after exposure to ox-nPS/mPS. The enhancement of effects due to environmental aging processes highlighted the true potential impact on human health of these airborne pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (A.F.)
- Istituto Clinico Polispecialistico C.O.T., Cure Ortopediche Traumatologiche s.p.a., 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (A.F.)
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (A.F.)
| | - Consuelo Celesti
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.I.)
| | - Daniela Iannazzo
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.I.)
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.L.); (G.V.); (A.F.)
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3
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Visalli G, Laganà A, Facciolà A, Iaconis A, Curcio J, Pollino S, Celesti C, Scalese S, Libertino S, Iannazzo D, Di Pietro A. Enhancement of biological effects of oxidised nano- and microplastics in human professional phagocytes. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 99:104086. [PMID: 36842547 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics are ubiquitous pollutants that can cause adverse health effects even in humans. Effects of virgin and oxidised (simulating the aging processes) polystyrene nano (nPS) and micro particles (mPS) with diameters of 0.1 and 1 µm were studied on human professional phagocytes (i.e., monocyte cells THP-1 and macrophage-like mTHP-1 cells). After characterization by ATR-FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM and dynamic light-scattering analyses, the particles were FITC functionalised to quantify cellular uptake. Changes in the cell compartments were studied by acrydine orange and the pro-oxidant, cytotoxic and genotoxic effects were assessed. Phagocytosis was dose- and time- dependent and at 24 h 52% of nPS and 58% of mPS were engulfed. Despite the high homeostasis of professional phagocytes, significant ROS increases and DNA damage were observed after exposure to oxidised particles. The results highlight that the environmental aging processes enhances the adverse health effects of micro and nanoplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; Istituto Clinico Polispecialistico C.O.T. Cure Ortopediche Traumatologiche s.p.a., 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonella Iaconis
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Jessica Curcio
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Santa Pollino
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Consuelo Celesti
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Scalese
- Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR-IMM), Ottava Strada n.5, I-95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Sebania Libertino
- Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR-IMM), Ottava Strada n.5, I-95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Daniela Iannazzo
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy.
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Trovato M. Update on International Medical Taxonomies of Biomarkers and Their Applications in Management of Thyroid Cancers. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12030662. [PMID: 35328215 PMCID: PMC8946984 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12030662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers (BMs) are medical signs which can be precisely measured and reproduced. Mainly, BMs provide information on the likely disease which can occur in an individual. On the other hand, BMs also signal disease recurrence in patients receiving therapy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration coupled with the National Institutes of Health and the European Medicines Agency have proposed two distinct procedures to validate BMs. These agencies have elaborated two glossaries to describe the role of BMs. The aim of this study was to investigate medical taxonomies adopted by different governmental agencies for BM validation. Additional goals were to analyze efficiencies of the validated and candidate BMs for thyroid cancers (TCs). Currently, thyroglobulin is validated for monitoring TCs. Sorafenib-tosylate, Doxorubicin-hydrochloride, Vandetanib, Cabozantinib-s-malate, Dabrafenib-mesylate, Trametinib-dimethyl-sulfoxide, Lenvatinib-mesylate, Pralsetinib and Selpercatinib are validated for TC treatment. Among candidate BMs for TC diagnosis, there are molecular combinations including BRAF, RAS, RET/PTC and PAX8-PPARγ mutations. Noteworthy are BRAF and RET/PTC alterations already validated as targets of Dabrafenib-mesylate, Pralsetinib and Selpercatinib. Finally, cellular expressions of c-met in nodal TC metastases have diagnostic imaging applications. On the basis of this analysis, BM taxonomies should have common standards internationally recognized. BMs show different efficiencies depending on their diagnostic or therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Trovato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Policlinico Universitario, Consolare Valeria 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
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Ermolin MS, Ivaneev AI, Fedyunina NN, Fedotov PS. Nanospeciation of metals and metalloids in volcanic ash using single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 281:130950. [PMID: 34289616 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Volcanic activity is one of the main sources of natural nanoparticles. It has been found earlier that the concentration of toxic metals/metalloids in nanoparticles of volcanic ash may be one or two orders of magnitude higher than in bulk sample. However, fate and behavior of toxic metals/metalloids depend on the type of their binding to nanoparticles. Hence, element species adsorbed onto pyroclastic nanoparticles and individual nanophases of metal/metalloid oxides or salts should be distinguished. For the first time, the single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry has been applied to the nanospeciation of volcanic particles. Ashes of four volcanoes of Kamchatka (Russia) were under study. Nanoparticles were separated from bulk ash samples using coiled-tube field-flow fractionation. It has been shown that the nanospeciation of Ni, Zn, Ag, Cd, Tl, As, Pb, Bi, Te, and Hg is dependent on element and volcano. In most cases these elements can be found both as species absorbed onto pyroclastic nanoparticles and as individual nanophases. The ratios of individual nanophases and adsorbed species vary with the sample. In nanoparticles of Tolbachik volcano ash, Ni, Zn, Tl, and Hg are present only as individual nanophases, while Bi, As, Pb, Ag, Cd, and Te are found both as adsorbed species and individual nanophases. The results obtained open a new door into study on the chemical composition of volcanic ash nanoparticles and their fate in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail S Ermolin
- Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry Aa Analytical Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Alexandr I Ivaneev
- Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry Aa Analytical Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Natalia N Fedyunina
- National University of Science and Technology "MISIS", Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Petr S Fedotov
- Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry Aa Analytical Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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Laganà P, Visalli G, Facciolà A, Ciarello MP, Laganà A, Iannazzo D, Di Pietro A. Is the Antibacterial Activity of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) Related to Antibiotic Resistance? An Assessment in Clinical Isolates. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179310. [PMID: 34501898 PMCID: PMC8431017 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance has spread globally, compromising the treatment of common infections. This feature is particularly harmful for nosocomial pathogens that can survive on hospital surfaces. Research studies have been conducted to evaluate new materials that are able to counteract the microbial growth and the colonization of the hospital environment. In this context, nanotechnologies have showed encouraging applications. We investigated the antibacterial activity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), both pristine (p) and functionalized (f), at concentrations of 50 and 100 μg mL−1, against bacterial strains isolated from hospital-acquired infections, and this activity was correlated with the antibiotic susceptibility of the strains. The inhibiting effect of MWCNTs occurred for both types and doses tested. Moreover, f-MWCNTs exerted a greater inhibiting effect, with growth decreases greater than 10% at 24 h and 20% at 48 h compared to p-MWCNTs. Moreover, a lower inhibitory effect of MWCNTs, which was more lasting in Gram-positives resistant to cell wall antibiotics, or temporary in Gram-negatives resistant to nucleic acid and protein synthesis inhibitors, was observed, highlighting the strong relation between antibiotic resistance and MWCNT effect. In conclusion, an antimicrobial activity was observed especially for f-MWCNTs that could therefore be loaded with bioactive antimicrobial molecules. However, this potential application of CNTs presupposes the absence of toxicity and therefore total safety for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.); (A.D.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.); (A.D.P.)
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.); (A.D.P.)
| | - Marianna Pruiti Ciarello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.); (A.D.P.)
| | - Antonio Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.); (A.D.P.)
| | - Daniela Iannazzo
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Industrial Chemistry and Engineering, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.); (A.L.); (A.D.P.)
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Visalli G, Facciolà A, Pruiti Ciarello M, De Marco G, Maisano M, Di Pietro A. Acute and Sub-Chronic Effects of Microplastics (3 and 10 µm) on the Human Intestinal Cells HT-29. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115833. [PMID: 34071645 PMCID: PMC8198674 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Due to ingestion of contaminated foods, the human gastrointestinal tract is the most likely site of exposure to microplastics (MPs) with gut barrier dysfunction and intestinal inflammation. Aimed to assess the effects induced by MPs with different granulometry (polystyrene (PS) 3 and 10 µm), we performed an in vitro study by using the human intestinal cell line HT29. As a novelty, we assessed the sub-chronic exposure extending the treatment up to 48 days simulating the in vivo situation. In the range of 100–1600 particles mL−1, both the PS suspensions had moderate cytotoxicity after 24 h with percentages of mortality between 6.7 and 21.6 for the 10 µm and 6.1 and 29.6 for the 3 µm PS. Microscopic observation highlighted a more pronounced lysosomal membrane permeabilization in HT29 exposed to PS 3µm. Reactive oxygen species production was higher in cells exposed to PS 10 µm, but sub-chronic exposure highlighted the ability of the cells to partially neutralize this effect. Comet-assay confirmed the temporary oxidative damage that was PS-induced. Overall, considering the very fast turnover of intestinal cells, the increase in cell mortality, equal to 25% and 11% for 3 and 10 µm PS-MPs for each time point, could trigger intestinal disorders due to prolonged exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.)
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.)
| | - Marianna Pruiti Ciarello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.)
| | - Giuseppe De Marco
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (G.D.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Maisano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (G.D.M.); (M.M.)
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (M.P.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(0)90-221-3621; Fax: +39-(0)90-221-23351
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Trovato M, Sciacchitano S, Facciolà A, Valenti A, Visalli G, Di Pietro A. Interleukin‑6 signalling as a valuable cornerstone for molecular medicine (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:107. [PMID: 33907833 PMCID: PMC8057292 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological abilities of interleukin-6 (IL-6) have been under investigation for nearly 40 years. IL-6 works through an interaction with the complex peptide IL-6 receptor (IL-6R). IL-6 is built with four α-chain nanostructures, while two different chains, IL-6Rα (gp80) and gp130/IL6β (gp130), are included in IL-6R. The three-dimensional shapes of the six chains composing the IL-6/IL-6R complex are the basis for the nanomolecular roles of IL-6 signalling. Genes, pseudogenes and competitive endogenous RNAs of IL-6 have been identified. In the present review, the roles played by miRNA in the post-transcriptional regulation of IL-6 expression are evaluated. mRNAs are absorbed via the 'sponge' effect to dynamically balance mRNA levels and this has been assessed with regard to IL-6 transcription efficiency. According to current knowledge on molecular and nanomolecular structures involved in active IL-6 signalling, two different IL-6 models have been proposed. IL-6 mainly has functions in inflammatory processes, as well as in cognitive activities. Furthermore, the abnormal production of IL-6 has been found in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2; also known as COVID-19). In the present review, both inflammatory and cognitive IL-6 models were analysed by evaluating the cytological and histological locations of IL-6 signalling. The goal of this review was to illustrate the roles of the classic and trans-signalling IL-6 pathways in endocrine glands such as the thyroid and in the central nervous system. Specifically, autoimmune thyroid diseases, disorders of cognitive processes and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection have been examined to determine the contribution of IL-6 to these disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Trovato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, I‑98125 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, I‑98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Valenti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, I‑98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, I‑98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, I‑98125 Messina, Italy
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Newly Emerging Airborne Pollutants: Current Knowledge of Health Impact of Micro and Nanoplastics. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18062997. [PMID: 33803962 PMCID: PMC7998604 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18062997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Plastics are ubiquitous persistent pollutants, forming the most representative material of the Anthropocene. In the environment, they undergo wear and tear (i.e., mechanical fragmentation, and slow photo and thermo-oxidative degradation) forming secondary microplastics (MPs). Further fragmentation of primary and secondary MPs results in nanoplastics (NPs). To assess potential health damage due to human exposure to airborne MPs and NPs, we summarize the evidence collected to date that, however, has almost completely focused on monitoring and the effects of airborne MPs. Only in vivo and in vitro studies have assessed the toxicity of NPs, and a standardized method for their analysis in environmental matrices is still missing. The main sources of indoor and outdoor exposure to these pollutants include synthetic textile fibers, rubber tires, upholstery and household furniture, and landfills. Although both MPs and NPs can reach the alveolar surface, the latter can pass into the bloodstream, overcoming the pulmonary epithelial barrier. Despite the low reactivity, the number of surface area atoms per unit mass is high in MPs and NPs, greatly enhancing the surface area for chemical reactions with bodily fluids and tissue in direct contact. This is proven in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and flock workers, who are prone to persistent inflammatory stimulation, leading to pulmonary fibrosis or even carcinogenesis.
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10
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Visalli G, Facciolà A, Laganà P, Di Pietro A. Food chemoprevention and air pollution: the health comes with eating. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2020; 35:471-479. [PMID: 32573482 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2019-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Ambient air pollution is known to be an important causative agent of many non-communicable diseases, mainly due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5). According to Global Burden Disease study in 2015, the estimated premature deaths caused by PM2.5 were 4.2 million. Besides deaths, airborne pollution's effect on human health also has dramatic economic and social costs, contributing greatly to disability-adjusted life-year (DALY). To reduce the health impact is necessary a double approach, which includes the improvement of air quality and food chemoprevention, aimed at enhancing the homeostatic abilities of exposed subjects. The scavenging, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of nutraceuticals effectively counteract the pathogenic mechanisms common in almost all non-communicable diseases associated with air pollutants. Moreover, several bioactive compounds of food modulate, by epigenetic mechanisms, the metabolism of xenobiotics, favouring conjugation reactions and promoting excretion. This narrative review summarize the numerous pieces of evidence collected in the last decades by observational and experimental studies which underline the chemopreventive role of flavonoids, contained in several fruits and consumer beverages (wine, tea, etc.), and isothiocyanate sulforaphane, contained in the cruciferous vegetables belonging to the genus Brassica. These bioactive compounds, enhancing the individual homeostatic abilities, reduce the harmful effects of airborne pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Epidemiology Operative Unit, Department of Prevention, Health Provincial Agency, Messina, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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11
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12
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Mitochondrial Impairment Induced by Sub-Chronic Exposure to Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16050792. [PMID: 30841488 PMCID: PMC6427246 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16050792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Human exposure to carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can cause health issues due to their chemical-physical features and biological interactions. These nanostructures cause oxidative stress, also due to endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which increases following mitochondrial impairment. The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the health effects, due to mitochondrial dysfunction, caused by a sub-chronic exposure to a non-acutely toxic dose of multi walled CNTs (raw and functionalised). The A549 cells were exposed to multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (2 µg mL-1) for 36 days. Periodically, cellular dehydrogenases, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1), cytochrome c release, permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, transmembrane potential (Δψ m), apoptotic cells, and intracellular ROS were measured. The results, compared to untreated cells and to positive control formed by cells treated with MWCNTs (20 µg mL-1), highlighted the efficiency of homeostasis to counteract ROS overproduction, but a restitutio ad integrum of mitochondrial functionality was not observed. Despite the tendency to restore, the mitochondrial impairment persisted. Overall, the results underlined the tissue damage that can arise following sub-chronic exposure to MWCNTs.
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Facciolà A, Visalli G, La Maestra S, Ceccarelli M, D'Aleo F, Nunnari G, Pellicanò GF, Di Pietro A. Carbon nanotubes and central nervous system: Environmental risks, toxicological aspects and future perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2019; 65:23-30. [PMID: 30500734 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Due to their morphological and physicochemical properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) enhance the structural properties of several materials and are produced in great volumes. The production and the manufacturing of CNTs-incorporated products can lead to the potential environmental release of CNTs. For these reasons, CNTs can represent a serious concern for human health. Humans are exposed to nanoparticles through inhalation, ingestion and skin uptake. After their entrance, the particles can reach the Central Nervous System (CNS) through three different pathways: the systemic, olfactory and trigeminal pathways. In the first, through systemic blood circulation, nanoparticles cross both the blood-brain and blood-spinal cord barriers, which are highly selective semipermeable barriers that protect the CNS compartments. The second is the step from the nose to brain route and occurs along axons and via nerve bundles that cross the cribriform plate to the olfactory bulb. In the third, the compounds diffuse through the nasal cavity mucosa to reach the branches of the trigeminal nerve in the olfactory and respiratory regions, and they reach brain stem via axonal transport. After their entrance, CNTs reach the CNS where they may cause cytotoxicity of selected neurons in several CNS regions, impairing molecular pathways and contributing to the onset and progression of chronic brain inflammation, microglia activation and white matter abnormalities with an increased risk for autism spectrum disorders, lower IQ in children, neurodegenerative diseases and stroke. The large surface area to mass ratio of CNTs greatly increases surface reactivity. Despite this property considerable contributes to their toxicological profile in biological systems, also makes CNTs very attractive in the medical field, where they can be used as carriers of bioactive molecules, contrast agents, biological platforms and for many other applications in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Visalli
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Ceccarelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Aleo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nunnari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Messina, Italy
| | | | - Angela Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Italy.
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