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Bassani F, Romagnoli A, Cacciamani T, Amici A, Benelli D, Londei P, Märtens B, Bläsi U, La Teana A. Modification of translation factor aIF5A from Sulfolobus solfataricus. Extremophiles 2018; 22:769-780. [PMID: 30047030 PMCID: PMC6105217 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-018-1037-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic eIF5A and its bacterial orthologue EF-P are translation elongation factors whose task is to rescue ribosomes from stalling during the synthesis of proteins bearing particular sequences such as polyproline stretches. Both proteins are characterized by unique post-translational modifications, hypusination and lysinylation, respectively, which are essential for their function. An orthologue is present in all Archaea but its function is poorly understood. Here, we show that aIF5A of the crenarchaeum Sulfolobus solfataricus is hypusinated and forms a stable complex with deoxyhypusine synthase, the first enzyme of the hypusination pathway. The recombinant enzyme is able to modify its substrate in vitro resulting in deoxyhypusinated aIF5A. Moreover, with the aim to identify the enzyme involved in the second modification step, i.e. hypusination, a set of proteins interacting with aIF5A was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Bassani
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Romagnoli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
| | - T Cacciamani
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.,New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Amici
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Ranieri 67, 60131, Ancona, Italy
| | - D Benelli
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Haematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - P Londei
- Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Haematology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - B Märtens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunobiology and Genetics, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohrgasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - U Bläsi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunobiology and Genetics, Max F. Perutz Laboratories, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohrgasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - A La Teana
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
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Amici A, Caracciolo G, Digiacomo L, Gambini V, Marchini C, Tilio M, Capriotti AL, Colapicchioni V, Matassa R, Familiari G, Palchetti S, Pozzi D, Mahmoudi M, Laganà A. In vivo protein corona patterns of lipid nanoparticles. RSC Adv 2017. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra25493d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro and in vivo biological identity of nanoparticles are substantially different.
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Caracciolo G, Pozzi D, Capriotti AL, Cavaliere C, Piovesana S, La Barbera G, Amici A, Laganà A. The liposome–protein corona in mice and humans and its implications for in vivo delivery. J Mater Chem B 2014; 2:7419-7428. [DOI: 10.1039/c4tb01316f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Pozzi D, Marchini C, Cardarelli F, Rossetta A, Colapicchioni V, Amici A, Montani M, Motta S, Brocca P, Cantù L, Caracciolo G. Mechanistic understanding of gene delivery mediated by highly efficient multicomponent envelope-type nanoparticle systems. Mol Pharm 2013; 10:4654-65. [PMID: 24188138 DOI: 10.1021/mp400470p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We packaged condensed DNA/protamine particles in multicomponent envelope-type nanoparticle systems (MENS) combining different molar fractions of the cationic lipids 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP) and 3β-[N-(N,N-dimethylaminoethane)-carbamoyl] cholesterol (DC-Chol) and the zwitterionic lipids dioleoylphosphocholine (DOPC) and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE). Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and microelectrophoresis allowed us to identify the cationic lipid/DNA charge ratio at which MENS are small sized and positively charged, while synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed that MENS are well-shaped DNA/protamine particles covered by a lipid monobilayer. Transfection efficiency (TE) experiments indicate that a nanoparticle formulation, termed MENS-3, was not cytotoxic and highly efficient to transfect Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. To rationalize TE, we performed a quantitative investigation of cell uptake, intracellular trafficking, endosomal escape, and final fate by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM). We found that fluid-phase macropinocytosis is the only endocytosis pathway used by MENS-3. Once taken up by the cell, complexes that are actively transported by microtubules frequently fuse with lysosomes, while purely diffusing systems do not. Indeed, spatiotemporal image correlation spectroscopy (STICS) clarified that MENS-3 mostly exploit diffusion to move in the cytosol of CHO cells, thus explaining the high TE levels observed. Also, MENS-3 exhibited a marked endosomal rupture ability resulting in extraordinary DNA release. The lipid-dependent and structure-dependent TE boost suggests that efficient transfection requires both the membrane-fusogenic activity of the nanocarrier envelope and the employment of lipid species with intrinsic endosomal rupture ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pozzi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome , Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Danieli PP, Serrani F, Primi R, Ponzetta MP, Ronchi B, Amici A. Cadmium, lead, and chromium in large game: a local-scale exposure assessment for hunters consuming meat and liver of wild boar. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 2012; 63:612-627. [PMID: 22911061 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-012-9791-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals are ubiquitous in soil, water, and air. Their entrance into the food chain is an important environmental issue that entails risks to humans. Several reports indicate that game meat can be an important source of heavy metals, particularly because of the increasing consumption of game meat, mainly by hunters. We performed an exposure assessment of hunters and members of their households, both adults and children, who consumed wild boar (WB) meat and offal. We estimated the amount of cadmium, lead, and chromium in the tissues of WB hunted in six areas within Viterbo Province (Italy) and gathered data on WB meat and offal consumption by conducting specific diet surveys in the same areas. The exposure to cadmium, lead, and chromium was simulated with specifically developed Monte Carlo simulation models. Cadmium and lead levels in WB liver and meat harvested in Viterbo Province (Italy) were similar to or lower than the values reported in other studies. However, some samples contained these metals at levels greater then the EU limits set for domestic animals. The chromium content of meat or liver cannot be evaluated against any regulatory limit, but our results suggest that the amounts of this metal found in WB products may reflect a moderate environmental load. Our survey of the hunter population confirmed that their consumption of WB meat and liver was greater than that of the general Italian population. This level of consumption was comparable with other European studies. Consumption of WB products contributes significantly to cadmium and lead exposure of both adults and children. More specifically, consumption of the WB liver contributed significantly to total cadmium and lead exposure of members of the households of WB hunters. As a general rule, liver consumption should be kept to a minimum, especially for children living in these hunter households. The exposure to chromium estimated for this population of hunters may be considered to be safe. However, a specific and complete assessment of chromium speciation in relevant dietary and environmental situations should be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- P P Danieli
- Department of Agriculture, Forests, Nature and Energy, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
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Ghedini G, Marzano G, Castagnoli L, Ciravolo V, Amici A, Zappasodi R, Santilli G, Iezzi M, Tagliabue E, Pupa S. 281 Delta15HER2 – a Player in HER2-driven Tumor Progression. Eur J Cancer 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(12)70976-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Marchini C, Pozzi D, Montani M, Alfonsi C, Amici A, De Sanctis SC, Digman MA, Sanchez S, Gratton E, Amenitsch H, Fabbretti A, Gualerzi CO, Caracciolo G. Role of temperature-independent lipoplex-cell membrane interactions in the efficiency boost of multicomponent lipoplexes. Cancer Gene Ther 2011; 18:543-52. [PMID: 21394110 PMCID: PMC3940159 DOI: 10.1038/cgt.2011.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2010] [Revised: 09/14/2010] [Accepted: 11/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Multicomponent lipoplexes have recently emerged as especially promising transfection candidates, as they are from 10 to 100 times more efficient than binary complexes usually employed for gene delivery purposes. Previously, we investigated a number of chemical-physical properties of DNA-lipid complexes that were proposed to affect transfection efficiency (TE) of lipoplexes, such as nanoscale structure, size, surface potential, DNA-protection ability and DNA release from complexes upon interaction with cellular lipids. Although some minor differences between multicomponent and binary lipoplexes were found, they did not correlate clearly with efficiency. Instead, here we show that a marked difference between the cell internalization mechanism of binary and multicomponent lipoplexes does exist. Multicomponent lipoplexes significantly transfect cells at 4 °C, when endocytosis does not take place suggesting that they can enter cells via a temperature-independent mechanism. Confocal fluorescence microscopy experiments showed the existence of a correlation between endosomal escape and TE. Multicomponent lipoplexes exhibited a distinctive ability of endosomal escape and release DNA into the nucleus, whereas, poorly efficient binary lipoplexes exhibited minor, if any, endosomal rupture ability and remained confined in perinuclear late endosomes. Stopped-flow mixing measurements showed that the fusion rates of multicomponent cationic liposomes with anionic vesicles, used as model systems of cell membranes, were definitely shorter than those of binary liposomes. As either lipoplex uptake and endosomal escape involve fusion between lipoplex and cellular membranes, we suggest that a mechanism of lipoplex-cellular membrane interaction, driven by lipid mixing between cationic and anionic cellular lipids, does explain the TE boost of multicomponent lipoplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Marchini
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - D Pozzi
- First Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Montani
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - C Alfonsi
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - A Amici
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - S Candeloro De Sanctis
- First Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - MA Digman
- Laboratory for Fluorescence Dynamics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - S Sanchez
- Laboratory for Fluorescence Dynamics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - E Gratton
- Laboratory for Fluorescence Dynamics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - H Amenitsch
- Institute of Biophysics and Nanosystems Research, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Graz, Austria
| | - A Fabbretti
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - CO Gualerzi
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - G Caracciolo
- First Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Petrini S, Ramadori G, Corradi A, Borghetti P, Lombardi G, Villa R, Bottarelli E, Guercio A, Amici A, Ferrari M. Evaluation of safety and efficacy of DNA vaccines against bovine herpesvirus-1 (BoHV-1) in calves. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2011; 34:3-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2009.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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9
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Macagno M, Bolli E, Marchini C, Amici A, Riganti C, Bosia A, Forni G, Cavallo F. 289 Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase (IDO) silencing for improved antitumour vaccination. EJC Suppl 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s1359-6349(10)71093-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Cacciafesta M, Ettorre E, Amici A, Cicconetti P, Martinelli V, Linguanti A, Baratta A, Verrusio W, Marigliano V. New frontiers of cognitive rehabilitation in geriatric age: the Mozart Effect (ME). Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2010; 51:e79-82. [PMID: 20138674 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2009] [Revised: 12/28/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The ME was described for the first time in 1993. Subsequently other studies with similar designs were performed. The present study, therefore, proposes: (i) to verify the existence of the benefits of exposure to music in elderly subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), (ii) to explore whether it is possible to find any lasting improvement after training, conducted for a long period of time, with such musical pieces, in the measurable cognitive performances. The study we conducted showed that the ME is present in geriatric patients with MCI; the influence on spatial-temporal abilities remains constant in time if the stimulation is maintained. The continuation of our study will consist of increasing the number of individuals examined and in having them listen to music during the study of ECG rhythms and during the acquisition of cerebral functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and, at the same time, testing them by neuropsychometric methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cacciafesta
- Department of Aging Science, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, I-00161, Roma, Italy.
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De Giovanni C, Nicoletti G, Palladini A, Croci S, Landuzzi L, Antognoli A, Murgo A, Astolfi A, Ferrini S, Fabbi M, Orengo AM, Amici A, Penichet ML, Aurisicchio L, Iezzi M, Musiani P, Nanni P, Lollini PL. A multi-DNA preventive vaccine for p53/Neu-driven cancer syndrome. Hum Gene Ther 2010; 20:453-64. [PMID: 19215191 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2008.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The highly aggressive cancer syndrome of female mice carrying a p53 knockout allele and a rat HER-2/neu (Neu) transgene (BALB-p53Neu) can be prevented by a cell vaccine presenting three components: Neu, interleukin (IL)-12 production, and allogeneic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) alleles (Triplex cell vaccine). Here we tested a second-generation Triplex DNA-based vaccine (Tri-DNA), consisting of the combination of three gene components (a transmembrane-extracellular domain fragment of the Neu gene, IL-12 genes, and the H-2D(q) allogeneic MHC gene), carried by separate plasmids. The Tri-DNA vaccine was at least as effective as the Triplex cell vaccine for cancer immunoprevention, giving a similar delay in the onset of mammary cancer and complete protection from salivary cancer. Both vaccines induced anti-Neu antibodies of the murine IgG2a isotype at similar levels. The Tri-DNA vaccine gave more restricted immunostimulation, consisting of a fully helper T cell type 1 (Th1)-polarized response, with effective production of interferon (IFN)-gamma in response to the vaccine but no spontaneous production, and no induction of anti-Neu IgG3 antibodies. On the other hand, the Triplex cell vaccine induced both Th1 and Th2 cytokines, a strong increase in spontaneous IFN-gamma production, and high levels of IgG3 antibodies recognizing Neu-positive syngeneic cells. In conclusion, the Tri-DNA vaccine is as effective as Triplex cell vaccine, exploiting a more restricted immune stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C De Giovanni
- Cancer Research Section, Department of Experimental Pathology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, I-40126 Bologna, Italy.
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Larciprete G, Rossi F, Valli E, Amici A, Cirese E. Amici-Larciprete knotless technique. An easy way to suture in laparoscopy. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 2009; 36:69. [PMID: 19688942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G Larciprete
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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Amici A, Cicconetti P, Sagrafoli C, Baratta A, Passador P, Pecci T, Tassan G, Verrusio W, Marigliano V, Cacciafesta M. Exaggerated morning blood pressure surge and cardiovascular events. A 5-year longitudinal study in normotensive and well-controlled hypertensive elderly. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2008; 49:e105-e109. [PMID: 19070375 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2008.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2008] [Revised: 10/15/2008] [Accepted: 10/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular events (CE) occur most frequently in the morning hours in hypertensive subjects. We studied the association between the morning blood pressure (BP) surge and CE in prognosis of 10 normotensive and 32 well-controlled hypertensive elderly, in whom ambulatory BP monitoring was performed and who were followed prospectively for 5 years. The morning surge (MS) of BP was calculated as mean systolic BP during 2h after awakening--mean systolic BP during 1h that included the lowest sleep BP. During an average of 60 months, five CE occurred. When the patients were divided into two groups according to MS, those in the top terzile (MS group; MS> or =34 mmHg, n=14) had a higher prevalence of CE (5 versus 0, p=0.001) during the follow-up period, than the others (non-MS group; MS<34 mmHg, n=28). The logistic regression analysis showed the MS sleep-trough surge as predictive variable of CE (odds ratio, OR=0.794, p=0.022). In conclusion, in older normotensives and well-controlled hypertensives, a higher BP MS is associated with vascular risk independently of clinical and ambulatory BP. Reduction of the MS could thus be a therapeutic target for preventing vascular events also in non-hypertensive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy.
| | - P Cicconetti
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - C Sagrafoli
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - A Baratta
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - P Passador
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - T Pecci
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - G Tassan
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - W Verrusio
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - V Marigliano
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
| | - M Cacciafesta
- Department of Aging Science, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Policlinico 155, I-00160 Rome, Italy
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Caorsi C, Cappello P, Ceruti P, Amici A, Marchini C, Novelli F, Forni G, Giovarelli M. CCL16 Enhances the CD8+ and CD4+ T Cell Reactivity to Human Her-2 Elicited by Dendritic Cells Loaded with Rat Ortholog Her-2. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2008; 21:867-77. [DOI: 10.1177/039463200802100411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells from HLA A2+ healthy donors were co-cultured with autologous dendritic cells (DC) loaded with apoptotic tumor cells expressing rat neu, and were induced to mature by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α and interleukin (IL)-1β (mDC neu) or by the CCL16 chemokine (CCL16/mDC neu). Priming by CCL16/mDC neu induces a larger population of T cells that express cytoplasmatic interferon (IFN)γ, TNFα, perforin and granzyme B compared to those primed by mDC neu. T cells primed by CCL16/mDC neu release IFNγ in response to human HER-2+ cells and kill human HER-2+ target cells more efficiently than those primed by mDC neu. Our results show that both the loading of DC with xenogeneic rat neu and their maturation by CCL16 are two issues of critical importance for the elicitation of an effective response to human HER-2 in T cells from normal donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Caorsi
- Department of Medicine and Experimental Oncology, University of Turin, Turin
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CERMS), S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin
| | - P. Cappello
- Department of Medicine and Experimental Oncology, University of Turin, Turin
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CERMS), S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin
| | - P. Ceruti
- Department of Medicine and Experimental Oncology, University of Turin, Turin
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CERMS), S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin
| | - A. Amici
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Camerino
| | - C. Marchini
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Camerino
| | - F. Novelli
- Department of Medicine and Experimental Oncology, University of Turin, Turin
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CERMS), S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin
| | - G. Forni
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Italy
| | - M. Giovarelli
- Department of Medicine and Experimental Oncology, University of Turin, Turin
- Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies (CERMS), S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin
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Amici A, Cicconetti P, Baratta A, Linguanti A, Scalise C, Giudice G, Piccirillo G, Marigliano V, Cacciafesta M. The Marigliano–Cacciafesta polypathology scale (MCPS): A tool for predicting the risk of developing disability. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2008; 47:201-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2007.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2007] [Revised: 08/02/2007] [Accepted: 08/06/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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16
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Amici A, Baratta A, Linguanti A, Giudice G, Servello A, Scalise C, Tafaro L, Cicconetti P, Marigliano V, Cacciafesta M. The Marigliano–Cacciafesta polypathological scale: A tool for assessing fragility. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2008; 46:327-34. [PMID: 17619062 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2007.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2007] [Revised: 05/10/2007] [Accepted: 05/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of our studies was to establish a standard method of assessment that allows an early identification of frailty in the elderly, i.e., to predict who are at risk of developing disabilities, in order to be able to intervene with preventive global and individualized measures. A new multidimensional scale called Marigliano-Cacciafesta polypathological scale (MCPS) was used on 180 elderly people, together with the Barthel index (BI), the global evaluation functional index (GEFI), the geriatric depression scale (GDS), the mini mental state examination (MMSE), the mini nutritional assessment (MNA), and the Tinetti test. A strongly significant statistical correlation was found between the MCPS and the nutritional state, mood level, motor functionality, level of disability and global functionality. As the fragile patients are at a risk to develop disabilities, we think that our scale can be a significant contribution to the multidimensional geriatric assessment (MGA), aimed at identifying and quantifying the parameter of fragility of each patient, an information which should be known, if we intend to introduce preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Department of Aging Science, Policlinico Umberto I, University "La Sapienza", viale del Policlinico, 155, I-00161 Roma, Italy
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Galiè M, Konstantinidou G, Peroni D, Scambi I, Marchini C, Lisi V, Krampera M, Magnani P, Merigo F, Montani M, Boschi F, Marzola P, Orrù R, Farace P, Sbarbati A, Amici A. Mesenchymal stem cells share molecular signature with mesenchymal tumor cells and favor early tumor growth in syngeneic mice. Oncogene 2007; 27:2542-51. [PMID: 17998939 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1210920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment in carcinomas recruits mesenchymal cells with an abnormal proangiogenic and invasive phenotype. It is not clear whether mesenchymal tumor cells (MTCs) derive from the activation of mature fibroblasts or from their stem cell precursors. However, stromal cell activation in tumors resembles in several aspects the mesenchymal rearrangement which normally occurs during reparative processes such as wound healing. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a crucial role in developmental and reparative processes and have extraordinary proangiogenic potential, on the basis of which they are thought to show great promise for the treatment of ischemic disorders. Here, we show that MTCs have proangiogenic potential and that they share the transcriptional expression of the best-known proangiogenic factors with MSCs. We also found that MTCs and MSCs have the same molecular signature for stemness-related genes, and that when co-implanted with cancer cells in syngeneic animals MSCs determine early tumor appearance, probably by favoring the angiogenic switch. Our data (1) reveal crucial aspects of the proangiogenic phenotype of MTCs, (2) strongly suggest their stem origin and (3) signal the risk of therapeutic use of MSCs in tumor-promoting conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Galiè
- Department of Morphological and Biomedical Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
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18
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La Milia V, Virga G, D'Amico M, Russo R, Corciulo R, Amici A, De Vecchi A, Feriani M, Salomone M, Cancarini G. [Treating peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis: guideline from the Italian Society of Nephrology]. G Ital Nefrol 2007; 24 Suppl 37:S149-64. [PMID: 17347964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current 3rd edition of the Italian Society of Nephrology guidelines has been drawn up to summarize evidence of key intervention issues on the basis of systematic reviews (SR) of randomized trials (RCT) or RCT data only. The present guideline reports evidence of interventions to treat peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis (PD). METHODS SR of RCT and RCT on treatments for peritoneal dialysis peritonitis were identified referring to a Cochrane Library and Renal Health Library search (2005 update). Quality of SR and RCT was assessed according to current methodological standards. RESULTS Thirty-six RCT were found addressing the intervention issue. Vancomycin or first generation cephalosporins may be used for treating peritoneal dialysis peritonitis due to Gram-positive agents. Third-generation cephalosporins or amino-glycosides may be used for Gram-negative agents peritonitis. Association of first-generation cephalosporins and agents against Gram-negative bacteria via the intraperitoneal route represents the most frequently used approach. Intraperitoneal administration of antibiotic agents is the most effective treatment of peritoneal dialysis peritonitis. Intermittent administration may be preferred to continuous administration of antibiotic agents in peritoneal dialysis peritonitis. CONCLUSION In peritoneal dialysis peritonitis current evidence supports the hypothesis that intraperitoneal administration of antibiotics agents and intermittent administration may be preferred to other routes of administration and continuous administration. Further studies are necessary to test this hypothesis in selected patient populations.
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19
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De Vecchi A, Corciulo R, Salomone M, Russo R, Amici A, D'Amico M, Feriani M, La Milia V, Virga G, Cancarini G. [Catheter-related interventions to prevent peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis: guideline from the Italian Society of Nephrology]. G Ital Nefrol 2007; 24 Suppl 37:S136-48. [PMID: 17347962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current 3rd edition of the Italian Society of Nephrology guidelines has been drawn up to summarize evidence of key intervention issues on the basis of systematic reviews (SR) of randomized trials (RCT) or RCT data only. The present guideline report evidence of catheter-related interventions to prevent peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis (PD). METHODS SR of RCT and RCT of catheter-related interventions to prevent peritonitis in PD were identified referring to a Cochrane Library and Renal Health Library search (2005 update). RESULTS Two SR and 17 RCT were found addressing this issue. Methodological quality of available RCT was suboptimal according to current methodological standards. The use of the Y-set systems with disinfectant and the twin-bag systems was associated with a significantly lower risk of peritonitis. No other catheter-related interventions were found to be of proven efficacy in preventing the risk of peritonitis and exit-site/tunnel infection in PD patients. CONCLUSION It is still unknown whether any particular PD catheter design or implantation technique are effective to prevent peritonitis in patients on peritoneal dialysis. Further studies are necessary to test the effectiveness of new interventions.
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20
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Castrucci G, Ferrari M, Salvatori D, Sardonini S, Frigeri F, Petrini S, Lo Dico M, Marchini C, Rotola A, Amici A, Provinciali M, Tosini A, Angelini R, Cassai E. Vaccination trials against bovine herpesvirus-1. Vet Res Commun 2006; 29 Suppl 2:229-31. [PMID: 16244962 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-005-0049-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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21
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Berta GN, Mognetti B, Spadaro M, Trione E, Amici A, Forni G, Di Carlo F, Cavallo F. Anti-HER-2 DNA vaccine protects Syrian hamsters against squamous cell carcinomas. Br J Cancer 2006; 93:1250-6. [PMID: 16265350 PMCID: PMC2361512 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6602853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper illustrates the efficacy of DNA vaccination through electroporation in the prevention of oral transplantable carcinoma in Syrian hamsters. At 21 and 7 days before tumour challenge, 19 hamsters were vaccinated with plasmids coding for the extracellular and transmembrane domains of rat HER-2 receptor (EC-TM plasmids), whereas 19 control hamsters were injected intramuscularly with the empty plasmid. Immediately following plasmid injection, hamsters of both groups received two square-wave 25 ms, 375 V cm(-1) electric pulses via two electrodes placed on the skin of the injection area. At day 0, all hamsters were challenged in the submucosa of the right cheek pouch with HER-2-positive HCPC I cells established in vitro from an 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced oral carcinoma. This challenge gave rise to HER-2-positive buccal neoplastic lesions in 14 controls (73.37%), compared with only seven (36.8%, P<0.0027) vaccinated hamsters. In addition, the vaccinated hamsters displayed both a stronger proliferative and cytotoxic response than the controls and a significant anti-HER-2 antibody response. Most of the hamsters that rejected the challenge displayed the highest antibody titres. These findings suggest that DNA vaccination may have a future in the prevention of HER-2-positive human oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- G N Berta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Ospedale San Luigi Gonzaga, University of Turin, I-10043 Orbassano, Italy.
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22
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Amici A, Ciccioli K, Naponelli V, Raffaelli N, Magni G. Evidence for essential catalytic determinants for human erythrocyte pyrimidine 5'-nucleotidase. Cell Mol Life Sci 2005; 62:1613-20. [PMID: 15968458 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-005-5135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Human erythrocyte pyrimidine 5'-nucleotidase, PN-I, catalyzes the dephosphorylation of pyrimidine nucleoside monophosphates. The enzyme also possesses phosphotransferase activity, transferring phosphate groups between pyrimidine nucleoside monophosphates and various pyrimidine nucleosides. Deficiency of the enzyme activity is associated with a hemolytic anemia. PN-I cDNA has been expressed in Escherichia coli, yielding a fully active recombinant enzyme, which was purified to homogeneity and extensively characterized. Multiple sequence alignment of PN-I and homologues proteins revealed the existence of conserved regions, whose importance in catalysis was examined by performing experiments designed to intercept covalent intermediates as strongly suggested by our previous kinetic studies. Furthermore, a functional analysis of the enzyme was carried out through site-directed mutagenesis designed on the basis of the sequence of the identified conserved regions as well as mutations observed in PN-I-deficient patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Istituto di Biotecnologie Biochimiche, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Via Ranieri 67, 60131, Ancona, Italy
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23
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Zhdanov RI, Krylov AS, Zarubina TV, Zhdanov AR, Amici A, Venanzi F. Effect of Phospholipid Membranes on the Specific and Nonspecific Transcription Systems in vitro. DOKL BIOCHEM BIOPHYS 2005; 402:193-6. [PMID: 16116746 DOI: 10.1007/s10628-005-0068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R I Zhdanov
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, ul. Baltiiskaya 8, Moscow, 125315 Russia
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24
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Abstract
The enzyme nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase (NMNAT), a member of the nucleotidyltransferase alpha/beta phosphodiesterase superfamily, catalyzes the reaction NMN + ATP = NAD + PPi, representing the final step in the biosynthesis of NAD, a molecule playing a fundamental role as a cofactor in cellular redox reactions. NAD also serves as the substrate for reactions involved in important regulatory roles, such as protein covalent modifications, like ADP-ribosylation reactions, as well as Sir2 histone deacetylase, a recently discovered class of enzymes involved in the regulation of gene silencing. This overview describes the most recent findings on NMNATs from bacteria, archaea, yeast, animal and human sources, with detailed consideration of their major kinetic, molecular and structural features. On this regard, the different characteristics exhibited by the enzyme from the various species are highlighted. The possibility that NMNAT may represent an interesting candidate as a target for the rational design of selective chemotherapeutic agents has been suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Magni
- Istituto di Biotecnologie Biochimiche, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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25
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Castrucci G, Ferrari M, Marchini C, Salvatori D, Provinciali M, Tosini A, Petrini S, Sardonini Q, Lo Dico M, Frigeri F, Amici A. Immunization against bovine herpesvirus-1 infection. Preliminary tests in calves with a DNA vaccine. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2004; 27:171-9. [PMID: 15001312 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2003.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) vaccine expressing glycoprotein D, the form with the transmembrane anchor removed, was evaluated for inducing immunity in calves. The plasmid encoding gD of BHV-1 was injected three times to nine calves, using three animals for each of the following routes: intramuscularly (i.m.), intradermally (i.d.), or intranasally (i.n.). Three additional calves were given the plasmid vector only and served as unvaccinated controls. When calves were subjected to challenge infection with BHV-1, all vaccinated calves as well as the controls developed a typical severe form of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis. However, compared to the controls, the vaccinated calves showed earlier clearance of challenge virus. Moreover, the calves given the vaccine i.m. developed neutralizing antibody to BHV-1 between 21 and 42 days following the first injection of vaccine, whereas in calves vaccinated either i.d. or i.n., as well as the controls, antibody first appeared in their sera 14 days post-challenge infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Castrucci
- Laboratory of Virology V.Cilli, Department of Technology and Biotechnology of Animal Productions, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy
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26
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Abstract
This review describes the enzymes involved in human pyridine nucleotide metabolism starting with a detailed consideration of their major kinetic, molecular and structural properties. The presentation encompasses all the reactions starting from the de novo pyridine ring formation and leading to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(+)) synthesis and utilization. The regulation of NAD(+) homeostasis with respect to the physiological role played by the enzymes both utilizing NAD(+) through the nonredox NAD(+)-dependent reactions and catalyzing the recycling of the common product, nicotinamide, is discussed. The salient features of other enzymes such as NAD(+) pyrophosphatase, nicotinamide mononucleotide 5'-nucleotidase, nicotinamide riboside kinase and nicotinamide riboside phosphorylase, described under 'miscellaneous', are likewise presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Magni
- Istituto di Biotecnologie Biochimiche, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Ranieri 69, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
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27
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Amici A, Mariano A, Scalise C, Picchi L, Troisi G. [Neoplastic inflammation: role of capillary electrophoresis]. RECENTI PROGRESSI IN MEDICINA 2001; 92:588-93. [PMID: 11695302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Two electrophoretical methods have been compared, in order to evaluate the most precise and sensitive one as to recognize initial inflammatory conditions also of tumoral nature. Consequently, among 5,000 patients observed during one year, only 500 cases have been considered with pathologic electrophoretic diagram and, among those, 245 cases of which alteration of the electrophoretic diagram concerned the alfa 1 band and the alfa 2 band; among the latter only 127 cases were diagnosed various tumors. It is deduced from the obtained results that there is better sensitiveness with the capillary method, which is evidenced in the more substantial increase of the alfa 1. Such method allows, precociously, to put in evidence a possible presence of inflammation, induced by any kind of tumor, even in absence of positiveness of the specific tumoral markers, in 38% of examined cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Dipartimento Scienze dell'Invecchiamento, Università La Sapienza, Roma
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28
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Raffaelli N, Lorenzi T, Emanuelli M, Amici A, Ruggieri S, Magni G. Nicotinamide-mononucleotide adenylyltransferase from Sulfolobus solfataricus. Methods Enzymol 2001; 331:281-92. [PMID: 11265470 DOI: 10.1016/s0076-6879(01)31065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N Raffaelli
- Istituto di Biochimica, Universita di Ancona, Ancona 60131, Italy
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29
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Raffaelli N, Pisani FM, Lorenzi T, Emanuelli M, Amici A, Ruggieri S, Magni G. Nicotinamide-mononucleotide adenylyltransferase from Methanococcus jannaschii. Methods Enzymol 2001; 331:292-8. [PMID: 11265471 DOI: 10.1016/s0076-6879(01)31066-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N Raffaelli
- Istituto di Biochimica, Universita di Ancona, Ancona 60131, Italy
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30
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Marinaki AM, Escuredo E, Duley JA, Simmonds HA, Amici A, Naponelli V, Magni G, Seip M, Ben-Bassat I, Harley EH, Thein SL, Rees DC. Genetic basis of hemolytic anemia caused by pyrimidine 5' nucleotidase deficiency. Blood 2001; 97:3327-32. [PMID: 11369620 DOI: 10.1182/blood.v97.11.3327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pyrimidine 5' nucleotidase (P5'N-1) deficiency is an autosomal recessive condition causing hemolytic anemia characterized by marked basophilic stippling and the accumulation of high concentrations of pyrimidine nucleotides within the erythrocyte. It is implicated in the anemia of lead poisoning and is possibly associated with learning difficulties. Recently, a protein with P5'N-1 activity was analyzed and a provisional complementary DNA (cDNA) sequence published. This sequence was used to study 3 families with P5'N-1 deficiency. This approach generated a genomic DNA sequence that was used to search GenBank and identify the gene for P5'N-1. It is found on chromosome 7, consists of 10 exons with alternative splicing of exon 2, and produces proteins 286 and 297 amino acids long. Three homozygous mutations were identified in this gene in 4 subjects with P5'N-1 deficiency: codon 98 GAT-->GTT, Asp-->Val (linked to a silent polymorphism codon 92, TAC-->TAT), codon 177, CAA-->TAA, Gln-->termination, and IVS9-1, G-->T. The latter mutation results in the loss of exon 9 (201 bp) from the cDNA. None of these mutations was found in 100 normal controls. The DNA analysis was complicated by P5'N-1 pseudogenes found on chromosomes 4 and 7. This study is the first description of the structure and location of the P5'N-1 gene, and 3 mutations have been identified in affected patients from separate kindreds. (Blood. 2001;97:3327-3332)
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Marinaki
- Purine Research Unit, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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31
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Di Carlo E, Rovero S, Boggio K, Quaglino E, Amici A, Smorlesi A, Forni G, Musiani P. Inhibition of mammary carcinogenesis by systemic interleukin 12 or p185neu DNA vaccination in Her-2/neu transgenic BALB/c mice. Clin Cancer Res 2001; 7:830s-837s. [PMID: 11300480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Because BALB/c mice transgenic for the rat Her-2/neu oncogene develop multifocal carcinomas in all mammary glands by week 33, they constitute an aggressive model for investigation of treatments designed to oppose mammary carcinogenesis. Nonspecific immune reaction elicited by systemic interleukin (IL)-12 both delayed the appearance of the first tumor and reduced the number of glands affected. However, only 5% of mice were tumor free at week 33. On the other hand, specific vaccination with plasmids encoding for the rat p185neu resulted in a further delay, so much so that 58% of mice were tumor free at week 33. No CTL response was evoked in either IL-12-treated or DNA-vaccinated mice, whereas an anti-rat p185neu antibody response was evident in the latter. Pathological examinations showed that in both IL-12-treated and DNA-vaccinated mice, the tumor growth area was infiltrated by reactive cells associated with expression of endothelial adhesion molecules and antiangiogenic proinflammatory cytokines. In the vaccinated mice, reduction of the number of cells expressing rat p185neu was combined with down-regulation of its membrane expression and even a marked inhibition in development of the terminal ductal lobular units. The reactive infiltrate in vaccinated mice contained numerous granulocytes that likely played an antiangiogenic and angiodestructive role and also joined other cells in the antibody-mediated killing of the r-p185neu+ cells. These results suggest that the elicitation of nonspecific and specific immunity could be beneficially used in individuals with a high risk of developing tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Di Carlo
- Department of Oncology and Neurosciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
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32
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Rovero S, Boggio K, Di Carlo E, Amici A, Quaglino E, Porcedda P, Musiani P, Forni G. Insertion of the DNA for the 163-171 peptide of IL1beta enables a DNA vaccine encoding p185(neu) to inhibit mammary carcinogenesis in Her-2/neu transgenic BALB/c mice. Gene Ther 2001; 8:447-52. [PMID: 11313823 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3301416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2000] [Accepted: 12/14/2000] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
An assessment was made of the effectiveness of DNA vaccination in prevention of the mammary adenocarcinomas of BALB/c female mice transgenic for the activated rat Her-2/neu oncogene. Atypical hyperplasia is evident in their mammary glands when they are 6 weeks old and in situ carcinoma by the 13th week. Palpable invasive carcinomas appear around the 17th week and are always evident in all 10 glands by the 33rd week. Intramuscular vaccinations with 100 microg plasmid DNA encoding the extracellular domain of the Her-2/neu p185 (ECD) performed at the 6th, 12th, 18th and 24th week provided no significant protection, whereas those ECD plasmids in which the DNA coding for the immunomodulatory 163-171 (VQGEESNDK) nonapeptide of human IL1beta (ECD-IL1betap) had been inserted both delayed carcinogenesis and reduced tumor multiplicity. This reduction was associated with a marked immune-inflammatory reaction and a conspicuous leukocyte infiltrate located in the stroma surrounding the hyperplastic mammary ductul-alveolar structures. It was also directly correlated with a high anti-p185(neu) antibody production and an immunoglobulin switch to IgG2a and IgA. No anti-p185(neu) cytotoxic response was found. No significant protection was obtained when the DNA coding for the non-active peptide 189-197 of IL1beta was inserted.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Rovero
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Italy
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33
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Emanuelli M, Carnevali F, Saccucci F, Pierella F, Amici A, Raffaelli N, Magni G. Molecular cloning, chromosomal localization, tissue mRNA levels, bacterial expression, and enzymatic properties of human NMN adenylyltransferase. J Biol Chem 2001; 276:406-12. [PMID: 11027696 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m008700200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A 1329-base pair clone isolated from a human placenta cDNA library contains a full-length 837-base pair coding region for a 31.9-kDa protein whose deduced primary structure exhibits high homology to consensus sequences found in other NMN adenylyltransferases. Northern blotting detected a major 3.1-kilobase mRNA transcript as well as a minor 4.1-kilobase transcript in all human tissues examined. In several cancer cell lines, lower levels of mRNA expression were clearly evident. The gene encoding the human enzyme was mapped to chromosome band 1p32-35. High efficiency bacterial expression yielded 1.5 mg of recombinant enzyme/liter of culture medium. The molecular and kinetic properties of recombinant human NMN adenylyltransferase provide new directions for investigating metabolic pathways involving this enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Emanuelli
- Istituti di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Ancona, via Ranieri, 60100 Ancona, Italy
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Rovero S, Amici A, Di Carlo E, Bei R, Nanni P, Quaglino E, Porcedda P, Boggio K, Smorlesi A, Lollini PL, Landuzzi L, Colombo MP, Giovarelli M, Musiani P, Forni G. DNA vaccination against rat her-2/Neu p185 more effectively inhibits carcinogenesis than transplantable carcinomas in transgenic BALB/c mice. J Immunol 2000; 165:5133-42. [PMID: 11046045 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.165.9.5133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The ability of vaccination with plasmids coding for the extracellular and the transmembrane domain of the product of transforming rat Her-2/neu oncogene (r-p185) to protect against r-p185(+) transplantable carcinoma (TUBO) cells and mammary carcinogenesis was evaluated. In normal BALB/c mice, DNA vaccination elicits anti-r-p185 Ab, but only a marginal CTL reactivity, and protects against a TUBO cell challenge. Massive reactive infiltration is associated with TUBO cell rejection. In BALB/c mice transgenic for the rat Her-2/neu gene (BALB-neuT), DNA vaccination elicits a lower anti-r-p185 Ab response, no CTL activity and only incompletely protects against TUBO cells, but markedly hampers the progression of carcinogenesis. At 33 wk of age, when control BALB-neuT mice display palpable tumors in all mammary glands, about 60% of immunized mice are tumor free, and tumor multiplicity is markedly reduced. Tumor-free mammary glands still display the atypical hyperplasia of the early stages of carcinogenesis, and a marked down-modulation of r-p185, along with a massive reactive infiltrate. However, BALB-neuT mice protected against mammary carcinogenesis fail to efficiently reject a TUBO cell challenge. This suggests that the mechanisms required for the rejection of transplantable tumors may not coincide with those that inhibit the slow progression of carcinogenesis.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/genetics
- Adenocarcinoma/immunology
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Adenocarcinoma/prevention & control
- Animals
- Antigens, Neoplasm/genetics
- Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology
- Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents/immunology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Carcinoma, Lobular/genetics
- Carcinoma, Lobular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Lobular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Lobular/prevention & control
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/immunology
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Female
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/genetics
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/immunology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/prevention & control
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Transgenic
- Neoplasm Transplantation/immunology
- Neoplasm Transplantation/pathology
- Rats
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-2/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins/biosynthesis
- Recombinant Proteins/immunology
- Tumor Cells, Cultured/transplantation
- Vaccines, DNA/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, DNA/immunology
- Vaccines, DNA/therapeutic use
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Affiliation(s)
- S Rovero
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Orbassano, Italy
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Amici A, Emanuelli M, Raffaelli N, Ruggieri S, Saccucci F, Magni G. Human erythrocyte pyrimidine 5-nucleotidase, PN-I, is identical to p36, a protein associated to lupus inclusion formation in response to alpha-interferon. Blood 2000; 96:1596-8. [PMID: 10942414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythrocyte maturation is accompanied by RNA degradation and release of mononucleotides. We have previously purified PN-I, a pyrimidine nucleotidase whose deficiency is associated with hemolytic anemia. Computer-aided analysis of PN-I tryptic and CNBr peptide sequences revealed substantial identity with tryptic peptide sequences reported for p36, an alpha-interferon-induced protein. PN-I partial sequences were matched through the expressed sequence tag database with different human complementary DNA (cDNA) clones, whose sequences were exploited to screen a human placenta cDNA library. PN-I cDNA, coding for a 286-residue protein, was expressed in Escherichia coli, yielding a fully active recombinant enzyme. The recombinant protein sequence comprised the peptide sequences determined for PN-I and p36. Rabbit antisera raised against two peptides deriving from p36 and PN-I tryptic digestions, respectively, recognized both wild-type and recombinant PN-I. Molecular properties of the two proteins were essentially the same. We conclude that p36 and PN-I are identical proteins. (Blood. 2000;96:1596-1598)
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Istituto di Biochimica and Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Agrarie ed Ambientali, Università di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
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Terramoccia S, Bartocci S, Amici A, Martillotti F. Protein and protein-free dry matter rumen degradability in buffalo, cattle and sheep fed diets with different forage to concentrate ratios. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0301-6226(99)00155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Pession A, Rondelli R, Paolucci P, Pastore G, Dini G, Bonetti F, Madon E, Mandelli F, Zanesco L, Uderzo C, Prete A, Rabusin M, Ugazio A, Di Bartolomeo P, Favre C, Bojd-Faulkner L, Poggi V, Luksch R, Donfrancesco A, Argiolu F, La Nasa G, Amici A, Locatelli F. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in childhood: report from the bone marrow transplantation group of the Associazione Italiana Ematologia Oncologia Pediatrica (AIEOP). Haematologica 2000; 85:638-46. [PMID: 10870122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells from different sources is being increasingly used to treat a variety of diseases in children. Transplant procedures and indications have changed considerably during recent years. Monitoring of information about these changes is useful for interpretation of nationwide collected data. DESIGN AND METHODS Since 1985, Centers belonging to the AIEOP (Associazione Italiana Ematologia Oncologia Pediatrica), performing hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT) in children, and members of the AIEOP-Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Group annually report data on their transplant activity to the AIEOP-BMT Registry employing specially prepared patient-oriented forms. RESULTS From January 1985 to December 1998, a total of 2,474 bone marrow (BM), peripheral blood (PB) or umbilical cord blood (CB) transplants were reported: 1,296 (52%) were allogeneic (Allo) and 1,178 (48%) autologous (Auto) transplants. These transplants were performed in 19 Italian Centers on 2,249 patients aged less than 17 years. Among Allo-transplants, 1,198 (92%) were performed using BM progenitor cells, whereas 49 (4%) CB, 42 (3%) were PB, 4 BM plus PB, and 3 BM plus CB allografts; they were performed using HLA-identical sibling donors in 867 cases (67%) and alternative donors (i.e. partially-matched relatives or unrelated donors) in the remaining 429 (33%) cases. Allogeneic transplants were performed on 786 (67%) patients with malignancy and on 395 (33%) patients with non-malignant disorders. In the last 6 years, the number of Allo-transplants per year exceeded that of Auto-transplants. Of the Auto-transplants, 775 (66%) were performed using BM, and 403 (34%) using PB alone or combined with BM hematopoietic stem cells. Indications for Auto-BMT were myelo-lymphoproliferative disorders in 524 (49%) cases, solid tumor in 533 (50%) cases and non-malignant disease in 11 (1%) cases. In the last 5 years, the use of PB for autografts has increased from 7% to 70%. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS These data reflect the development and present status of HSCT in Italy and provide a basis for patient counseling and health care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Pession
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Bologna, Ospedle Sant'Orsola, Bologna, Italy.
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38
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Amici A, Smorlesi A, Noce G, Santoni G, Cappelletti P, Capparuccia L, Coppari R, Lucciarini R, Petrelli C, Provinciali M. DNA vaccination with full-length or truncated neu induces protective immunity against the development of spontaneous mammary tumors in HER-2/neu transgenic mice. Gene Ther 2000; 7:703-6. [PMID: 10800094 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3301151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Genetic immunization against tumor antigens is an effective way to induce an immune response able to oppose cancer progression. Overexpression of HER-2/neu can lead to neoplastic transformation and has been found in many human primary breast cancers. We constructed DNA expression vectors encoding the full-length neu oncogene of rat cDNA (pCMV-NeuNT), the neu extracellular domain (pCMV-ECD), or the neu extracellular and transmembrane domains (pCMV-ECD-TM). We evaluated whether i.m. injection of these plasmids induces protection against the development of mammary tumors occurring spontaneously in FVB/N neu-transgenic mice. We found that pCMV-ECD-TM induced the best protection, whereas both pCMV-ECD and pCMV-NeuNT were less effective. The coinjection with a bicistronic vector for murine IL-12 increased the efficacy of pCMV-ECD and pCMV-NeuNT plasmids, and led to the same protection obtained with pCMV-ECD-TM alone. Anti-neuECD antibodies were detected in pCMV-ECD-TM vaccinated mice and, after coinjection with pCMV-IL12 plasmids, they appeared also in animals immunized with pCMV-ECD. Our data demonstrate the effectiveness of DNA vaccination using truncated Neu plasmids in inducing antitumor protection in a spontaneous mammary tumor model.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- General Physiology (Laboratory of Genetic Immunization), Department of Biology MCA, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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39
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Amici A, Thalmeier P, Fulde P. Theoretical model for the superconducting and magnetically ordered borocarbides. Phys Rev Lett 2000; 84:1800-1803. [PMID: 11017629 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.84.1800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/1999] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We present a theory of superconductivity in the presence of a general magnetic structure in a form suitable for the description of complex magnetic phases encountered in borocarbides. The theory, complemented with some details of the band structure and with the magnetic phase diagram, may explain the nearly reentrant behavior and the anisotropy of the upper critical field of HoNi2B2C. The onset of the helical magnetic order depresses superconductivity via the reduction of the interaction between phonons and electrons caused by the formation of magnetic Bloch states. At mean field level, no additional suppression of superconductivity is introduced by the incommensurability of the helical phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Max-Planck-Institut fur Physik komplexer Systeme, D-01187 Dresden, Germany
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Raffaelli N, Lorenzi T, Mariani PL, Emanuelli M, Amici A, Ruggieri S, Magni G. The Escherichia coli NadR regulator is endowed with nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase activity. J Bacteriol 1999; 181:5509-11. [PMID: 10464228 PMCID: PMC94063 DOI: 10.1128/jb.181.17.5509-5511.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The first identification and characterization of a catalytic activity associated with NadR protein is reported. A computer-aided search for sequence similarity revealed the presence in NadR of a 29-residue region highly conserved among known nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferases. The Escherichia coli nadR gene was cloned into a T7-based vector and overexpressed. In addition to functionally specific DNA binding properties, the homogeneous recombinant protein catalyzes NAD synthesis from nicotinamide mononucleotide and ATP.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Raffaelli
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina, Università di Ancona, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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Emanuelli M, Carnevali F, Lorenzi M, Raffaelli N, Amici A, Ruggieri S, Magni G. Identification and characterization of YLR328W, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae structural gene encoding NMN adenylyltransferase. Expression and characterization of the recombinant enzyme. FEBS Lett 1999; 455:13-7. [PMID: 10428462 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(99)00852-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The enzyme nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) adenylyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.1) catalyzes the transfer of the adenylyl moiety of ATP to NMN to form NAD. A new purification procedure for NMN adenylyltransferase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae provided sufficient amounts of enzyme for tryptic fragmentation. Through data-base search a full matching was found between the sequence of tryptic fragments and the sequence of a hypothetical protein encoded by the S. cerevisiae YLR328W open reading frame (GenBank accession number U20618). The YLR328W gene was isolated, cloned into a T7-based vector and successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 cells, yielding a high level of NMN adenylyltransferase activity. The purification of recombinant protein, by a two-step chromatographic procedure, resulted in a single polypeptide of 48 kDa under SDS-PAGE, in agreement with the molecular mass of the hypothetical protein encoded by YLR328W ORF. The N-terminal sequence of the purified recombinant NMN adenylyltransferase exactly corresponds to the predicted sequence. Molecular and kinetic properties of recombinant NMN adenylyltransferase are reported and compared with those already known for the enzyme obtained from different sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Emanuelli
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Ancona, Italy
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42
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Abstract
Beyond its role as an essential coenzyme in numerous oxidoreductase reactions as well as respiration, there is growing recognition that NAD+ fulfills many other vital regulatory functions both as a substrate and as an allosteric effector. This review describes the enzymes involved in pyridine nucleotide metabolism, starting with a detailed consideration of the anaerobic and aerobic pathways leading to quinolinate, a key precursor of NAD+. Conversion of quinolinate and 5'-phosphoribosyl-1'-pyrophosphate to NAD+ and diphosphate by phosphoribosyltransferase is then explored before proceeding to a discussion the molecular and kinetic properties of NMN adenylytransferase. The salient features of NAD+ synthetase as well as NAD+ kinase are likewise presented. The remainder of the review encompasses the metabolic steps devoted to (a) the salvaging of various niacin derivatives, including the roles played by NAD+ and NADH pyrophosphatases, nicotinamide deamidase, and NMN deamidase, and (b) utilization of niacins by nicotinate phosphoribosyltransferase and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Magni
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina, Università di Ancona, Italy
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43
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Amici A, Emanuelli M, Raffaelli N, Ruggieri S, Magni G. Pyrimidine nucleotidases/phosphotransferases from human erythrocyte. Nucleosides Nucleotides 1999; 18:853-5. [PMID: 10432693 DOI: 10.1080/15257779908041580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Two cytoplasmic pyrimidine 5'-nucleotidase have been purified from human erythrocytes to homogeneity and partially characterized. The two enzymes, indicated as PN-I and PN-II, preferentially hydrolyse pyrimidine 5'-monophosphates and 3'-monophosphates, respectively. The kinetic analysis demonstrate that pyrimidine 5'-nucleotidases, in the presence of suitable nucleoside substrates, can operate as phosphotransferases by transferring phosphate to various nucleoside acceptors, including nucleoside analogues known as important drugs widely used in chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Ancona, Italy
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44
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Raffaelli N, Emanuelli M, Pisani FM, Amici A, Lorenzi T, Ruggieri S, Magni G. Identification of the archaeal NMN adenylytransferase gene. Mol Cell Biochem 1999; 193:99-102. [PMID: 10331644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence on the importance of fluctuations in NAD+ levels in the living cell is accumulating. Therefore a deeper knowledge on the regulation of coenzyme synthesis and recycling is required. In this context the study of NMN adenylyltransferase (EC 2.7.7.1),. a key enzyme in the NAD+ biosynthetic pathway, assumes a remarkable relevance. We have previously purified to homogeneity and characterized the protein from the thermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus. The determination of partial sequence of the S. solfataricus enzyme, together with the recent availability of the genome sequence of the archaeon Methanococcus jannaschii, allowed us, based on sequence similarity, to identify the M. jannaschii NMN adenylyltransferase gene. As far as we know from literature, this is the first report on the NMN adenylyltransferase gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Raffaelli
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina, Università di Ancona, Italy
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45
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Messori A, Bosi A, Bacci S, Laszlo D, Trippoli S, Locatelli F, Van Lint MT, Di Bartolomeo P, Amici A. Retrospective survival analysis and cost-effectiveness evaluation of second allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in patients with acute leukemia. Gruppo Italiano Trapianto di Midollo Osseo. Bone Marrow Transplant 1999; 23:489-95. [PMID: 10100564 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1701600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic options for patients with acute leukemia who relapse after the initial transplant include second bone marrow transplantation (2BMT) and conventional chemotherapy (CC). In this work, we conducted an analysis of published survival data and we evaluated the cost-effectiveness of 2BMT in comparison with CC. We retrieved survival information on 167 patients treated with 2BMT and 299 patients treated with CC. Survival figures were derived from individual patient data and were compared between 2BMT and CC. The mean lifetime survival (MLS) was estimated for each of the two patient cohorts using standard techniques of survival-curve extrapolation. The cost data of patients given 2BMT or CC were estimated from published data. Our analysis of individual survival data showed that 2BMT improved survival at levels of statistical significance (survival gain = 19.6 months per patient). Using an incremental cost of $90000 per patient, the cost-effectiveness ratio of 2BMT in comparison with CC was calculated as $52215 discounted dollars per discounted life year gained. Our results indicate that, in patients with acute leukemia who relapse after their first transplant, 2BMT significantly prolongs survival in comparison with CC and seems to have an acceptable cost-effectiveness profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Messori
- Laboratorio di Farmacoeconomia, Drug Information Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi, Firenze, Italy
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Raffaelli N, Lorenzi T, Amici A, Emanuelli M, Ruggieri S, Magni G. Synechocystis sp. slr0787 protein is a novel bifunctional enzyme endowed with both nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase and 'Nudix' hydrolase activities. FEBS Lett 1999; 444:222-6. [PMID: 10050763 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(99)00068-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Synechocystis sp. slr0787 open reading frame encodes a 339 residue polypeptide with a predicted molecular mass of 38.5 kDa. Its deduced amino acid sequence shows extensive homology with known separate sequences of proteins from the thermophilic archaeon Methanococcus jannaschii. The N-terminal domain is highly homologous to the archaeal NMN adenylyltransferase, which catalyzes NAD synthesis from NMN and ATP. The C-terminal domain shares homology with the archaeal ADP-ribose pyrophosphatase, a member of the 'Nudix' hydrolase family. The slr0787 gene has been cloned into a T7-based vector for expression in Escherichia coli cells. The recombinant protein has been purified to homogeneity and demonstrated to possess both NMN adenylyltransferase and ADP-ribose pyrophosphatase activities. Both activities have been characterized and compared to their archaeal counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Raffaelli
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Ancona, Italy
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47
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Aversa F, Terenzi A, Felicini R, Tabilio A, Falzetti F, Carotti A, Falcinelli F, Sodani P, Amici A, Zucchetti P, Mazzarino I, Martelli MF. Mismatched T cell-depleted hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for children with high-risk acute leukemia. Bone Marrow Transplant 1998; 22 Suppl 5:S29-32. [PMID: 9989886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to extend allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation to leukemia patients without a matched donor. To prevent graft failure, large doses of T cell-depleted hematopoietic stem cells were transplanted following a highly myeloablative and immunosuppressive conditioning regimen. Fifteen children with high-risk acute leukemia received T cell-depleted hematopoietic stem cells from full-haplotype mismatched family members after a conditioning regimen that included single-dose TBI, thiotepa, ATG and fludarabine. To prevent GVHD, marrow cells were T-depleted by soybean agglutinin and E-rosetting, peripheral blood cells by E-rosetting followed by positive selection of the CD34+ cells. No post-transplant prophylaxis for GVHD was administered. In all patients full donor-type engraftment was achieved. None of the evaluable patients developed either acute or chronic GVHD. Regimen-related toxicity was minimal. Five patients are alive and event-free at a median follow-up of 18 months (range 13-28). All surviving patients have a good quality of life. Seven patients have relapsed. This study shows that GVHD and graft failure, which limited the use of full-haplotype mismatched bone marrow transplants, have been overcome. Since almost all children have a mismatched relative, advances in this area should make mismatched transplants a routine consideration for patients with high-risk leukemia without a matched related or unrelated donor.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Aversa
- Section of Hematology and Clinical Immunology, University of Perugia, Italy
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Amici A, Smorlesi A, Concetti A, Ripani E, Battistini L, Venanzi FM. Binding of feline immunodeficiency viral gag-p24 polypeptide to nonimmune Igs. Immunol Lett 1998; 62:93-7. [PMID: 9698104 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-2478(98)00033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Available data on the existence of lentivirus proteins with properties of unconventional Ag for B cells, have been so far restricted to human immunodeficiency virus (i.e. gp-120 of HIV-I). By using biotinylated-MAbs-anti-biotin IgG as readout system, we now report that gag-p24 antigen, either assembled in feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) particles or expressed as recombinant polypeptide (rec.p24) may bind to nonimmune IgGs purified from mouse or cat sera. Moreover, FACS scanning experiments are consistent with the possibility that rec.p24 interacts with surface-Ig in a sub-population (5-6%) of rodent B cells. We hypothesize that gag-p24 peptide encoded regions may bind to unconventional Ig sites or, alternatively, that they may represent 'public' epitopes for natural polyreactive antibody.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Department of Biology MCA, University of Camerino, MC, Italy
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49
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Messina C, Cesaro S, Rondelli R, Rossetti F, Locatelli F, Pession A, Miniero R, Dini G, Uderzo C, Dallorso S, Meloni G, Vignetti M, Andolina M, Porta F, Amici A, Favre C, Basso G, Sotti G, Varotto S, Destro R, Gazzola MV, Pillon M, Petris MG, Rabusin M, Scarzello G. Autologous bone marrow transplantation for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in Italy. AIEOP/FONOP-TMO Group. Italian Association of Paediatric Haemato-Oncology. Bone Marrow Transplant 1998; 21:1015-21. [PMID: 9632275 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1701204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
From January 1984 to December 1994, ABMT was performed on 154 children (101 males, 53 females; median age 10, range 3-21 years) with ALL and registered for BMT by the AIEOP (Italian Association of Paediatric Haemato-Oncology). All patients were in CR: 98 were in 2nd CR and 56 were in >2nd CR. Fifteen children (9.7%) died of transplant-related mortality. Ninety-five patients (61.6%) relapsed at a median of 5 (range 1-42) months after ABMT. The 8-year EFS according to pre-BMT status was 34.6% (s.e. 4.9) for 2nd CR patients and 10.6% (s.e. 5.6) for patients in >2nd CR. By univariate analysis, site of relapse (isolated extramedullary (IE) vs BM: EFS = 68.5% vs 18.2%; P < 0.0001) and TBI containing regimen (TBI vs no TBI: EFS = 48.1 vs 15.4%; P = 0.0023) were significant factors for 2nd CR patients. When the 2nd CR subset with BM involvement was analysed, TBI became insignificant (EFS = 25.4 vs 11.8%). No factors influenced EFS in patients in >2nd CR. By multivariate analysis, site of relapse was the only significant factor in 2nd CR patients (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, ABMT is an effective treatment after one early IE relapse. Few patients can be rescued after BM relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Messina
- Clinica Onco-Ematologia Pediatrica, Università di Padova, Italy
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Amici A, Emanuelli M, Magni G, Raffaelli N, Ruggieri S. Pyrimidine nucleotidases from human erythrocyte possess phosphotransferase activities specific for pyrimidine nucleotides. FEBS Lett 1997; 419:263-7. [PMID: 9428647 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(97)01464-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Two cytoplasmic forms of pyrimidine nucleotidase (PN-I and PN-II) have been purified from human erythrocytes to apparent homogeneity and partially characterized. They preferentially hydrolyse pyrimidine 5'-monophosphates and 3'-monophosphates respectively. PN-I and PN-II operate as interconverting activities, capable of transferring the phosphate from the pyrimidine nucleoside monophosphate donor(s) to various nucleoside acceptors, including important drugs like 3'-azido-3'-deoxy-thymidine (AZT), cytosine-beta-D-arabinofuranoside (AraC) and 5-fluoro-2'-deoxy-uridine (5FdUrd), pyrimidine analogues widely used in chemotherapy. Kinetic analysis showed linear behaviour for both PN-I and PN-II. PN-I phosphotransferase activity revealed higher affinity for oxynucleosides with respect to deoxy-nucleosides, whereas the contrary seems to be true for PN-II. These results show for the first time that soluble pyrimidine nucleotidases are endowed with pyrimidine-specific phosphotransferase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amici
- Istituto di Biochimica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Ancona, Italy
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