1
|
Pascarella F, Scaramuzzo RT, Pini A, Cammalleri M, Bagnoli P, Ciantelli M, Filippi L. Propranolol: a new pharmacologic approach to counter retinopathy of prematurity progression. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1322783. [PMID: 38292211 PMCID: PMC10824858 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1322783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the evident progress in neonatal medicine, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains a serious threat to the vision of premature infants, due to a still partial understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of this disease and the lack of drugs capable of arresting its progression. Although ROP is a multifactorial disease, retinal vascularization is strictly dependent on oxygen concentration. The exposition of the retina of a preterm newborn, still incompletely vascularized, to an atmosphere relatively hyperoxic, as the extrauterine environment, induces the downregulation of proangiogenic factors and therefore the interruption of vascularization (first ischemic phase of ROP). However, over the following weeks, the growing metabolic requirement of this ischemic retina produces a progressive hypoxia that specularly promotes the surge of proangiogenic factors, finally leading to proliferative retinopathy (second proliferative phase of ROP). The demonstration that the noradrenergic system is actively involved in the coupling between hypoxia and the induction of vasculogenesis paved the way for a pharmacologic intervention aimed at counteracting the interaction of noradrenaline with specific receptors and consequently the progression of ROP. A similar trend has been observed in infantile hemangiomas, the most common vascular lesion of childhood induced by pre-existing hypoxia, which shares similar characteristics with ROP. The fact that propranolol, an unselective antagonist of β1/2 adrenoceptors, counteracts the growth of infantile hemangiomas, suggested the idea of testing the efficacy of propranolol in infants with ROP. From preclinical studies, ongoing clinical trials demonstrated that topical administration of propranolol likely represents the optimal approach to reconcile its efficacy and maximum safety. Given the strict relationship between vessels and neurons, recovering retinal vascularization with propranolol may add further efficacy to prevent retinal dysfunction. In conclusion, the strategy of contrasting precociously the progression of the disease appears to be more advantageous than the current wait-and-see therapeutic approach, which instead is mainly focused on avoiding retinal detachment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Unit of General Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Unit of General Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Luca Filippi
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Filippi L, Nardini P, Zizi V, Molino M, Fazi C, Calvani M, Carrozzo F, Cavallaro G, Giuseppetti G, Calosi L, Crociani O, Pini A. β3 Adrenoceptor Agonism Prevents Hyperoxia-Induced Colonic Alterations. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1755. [PMID: 38136626 PMCID: PMC10741994 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxygen level is a key regulator of organogenesis and its modification in postnatal life alters the maturation process of organs, including the intestine, which do not completely develop in utero. The β3-adrenoreceptor (β3-AR) is expressed in the colon and has an oxygen-dependent regulatory mechanism. This study shows the effects of the β3-AR agonist BRL37344 in a neonatal model of hyperoxia-driven colonic injury. For the first 14 days after birth, Sprague-Dawley rat pups were exposed to ambient oxygen levels (21%) or hyperoxia (85%) and treated daily with BRL37344 at 1, 3, 6 mg/kg or untreated. At the end of day 14, proximal colon samples were collected for analysis. Hyperoxia deeply influences the proximal colon development by reducing β3-AR-expressing cells (27%), colonic length (26%) and mucin production (47%), and altering the neuronal chemical coding in the myenteric plexus without changes in the neuron number. The administration of BRL37344 at 3 mg/kg, but not at 1 mg/kg, significantly prevented these alterations. Conversely, it was ineffective in preventing hyperoxia-induced body weight loss. BRL37344 at 6 mg/kg was toxic. These findings pave the way for β3-AR pharmacological targeting as a therapeutic option for diseases caused by hyperoxia-impaired development, typical prematurity disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Filippi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (V.Z.); (M.M.); (L.C.); (O.C.)
- Imaging Platform, Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Virginia Zizi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (V.Z.); (M.M.); (L.C.); (O.C.)
| | - Marta Molino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (V.Z.); (M.M.); (L.C.); (O.C.)
| | - Camilla Fazi
- Department of Pediatric, Meyer Children’s University Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Maura Calvani
- Division of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Meyer University Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Carrozzo
- Division of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Meyer University Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Giacomo Cavallaro
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Giorgia Giuseppetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Laura Calosi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (V.Z.); (M.M.); (L.C.); (O.C.)
| | - Olivia Crociani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (V.Z.); (M.M.); (L.C.); (O.C.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (V.Z.); (M.M.); (L.C.); (O.C.)
- Imaging Platform, Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Scaramuzzo RT, Bagnoli P, Dal Monte M, Cammalleri M, Pini A, Ballini S, Bendinelli A, Desideri I, Ciantelli M, Filippi L. Treating infants with 0.2% propranolol eye micro-drops drastically reduced the progression of retinopathy of prematurity. Acta Paediatr 2023; 112:1905-1906. [PMID: 37199226 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandy Ballini
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Anna Bendinelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ielizza Desideri
- Hospital Pharmacy, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Luca Filippi
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Filippi L, Pascarella F, Pini A, Cammalleri M, Bagnoli P, Morganti R, Innocenti F, Castagnini N, Melosi A, Scaramuzzo RT. Fetal Oxygenation from the 23rd to the 36th Week of Gestation Evaluated through the Umbilical Cord Blood Gas Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12487. [PMID: 37569862 PMCID: PMC10419490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The embryo and fetus grow in a hypoxic environment. Intrauterine oxygen levels fluctuate throughout the pregnancy, allowing the oxygen to modulate apparently contradictory functions, such as the expansion of stemness but also differentiation. We have recently demonstrated that in the last weeks of pregnancy, oxygenation progressively increases, but the trend of oxygen levels during the previous weeks remains to be clarified. In the present retrospective study, umbilical venous and arterial oxygen levels, fetal oxygen extraction, oxygen content, CO2, and lactate were evaluated in a cohort of healthy newborns with gestational age < 37 weeks. A progressive decrease in pO2 levels associated with a concomitant increase in pCO2 and reduction in pH has been observed starting from the 23rd week until approximately the 33-34th week of gestation. Over this period, despite the increased hypoxemia, oxygen content remains stable thanks to increasing hemoglobin concentration, which allows the fetus to become more hypoxemic but not more hypoxic. Starting from the 33-34th week, fetal oxygenation increases and ideally continues following the trend recently described in term fetuses. The present study confirms that oxygenation during intrauterine life continues to vary even after placenta development, showing a clear biphasic trend. Fetuses, in fact, from mid-gestation to near-term, become progressively more hypoxemic. However, starting from the 33-34th week, oxygenation progressively increases until birth. In this regard, our data suggest that the placenta is the hub that ensures this variable oxygen availability to the fetus, and we speculate that this biphasic trend is functional for the promotion, in specific tissues and at specific times, of stemness and intrauterine differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Filippi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.I.); (N.C.); (A.M.); (R.T.S.)
| | - Francesca Pascarella
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.I.); (N.C.); (A.M.); (R.T.S.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Unit of General Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Unit of General Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Riccardo Morganti
- Section of Statistics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesca Innocenti
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.I.); (N.C.); (A.M.); (R.T.S.)
| | - Nicola Castagnini
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.I.); (N.C.); (A.M.); (R.T.S.)
| | - Alice Melosi
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.I.); (N.C.); (A.M.); (R.T.S.)
| | - Rosa Teresa Scaramuzzo
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.I.); (N.C.); (A.M.); (R.T.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Marelli S, Micaglio E, Taurino J, Salvi P, Rurali E, Perrucci GL, Dolci C, Udugampolage NS, Caruso R, Gentilini D, Trifiro' G, Callus E, Frigiola A, De Vincentiis C, Pappone C, Parati G, Pini A. Marfan Syndrome: Enhanced Diagnostic Tools and Follow-up Management Strategies. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2284. [PMID: 37443678 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a rare inherited autosomic disorder, which encompasses a variety of systemic manifestations caused by mutations in the Fibrillin-1 encoding gene (FBN1). Cardinal clinical phenotypes of MFS are highly variable in terms of severity, and commonly involve cardiovascular, ocular, and musculoskeletal systems with a wide range of manifestations, such as ascending aorta aneurysms and dissection, mitral valve prolapse, ectopia lentis and long bone overgrowth, respectively. Of note, an accurate and prompt diagnosis is pivotal in order to provide the best treatment to the patients as early as possible. To date, the diagnosis of the syndrome has relied upon a systemic score calculation as well as DNA mutation identification. The aim of this review is to summarize the latest MFS evidence regarding the definition, differences and similarities with other connective tissue pathologies with severe systemic phenotypes (e.g., Autosomal dominant Weill-Marchesani syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome) and clinical assessment. In this regard, the management of MFS requires a multidisciplinary team in order to accurately control the evolution of the most severe and potentially life-threatening complications. Based on recent findings in the literature and our clinical experience, we propose a multidisciplinary approach involving specialists in different clinical fields (i.e., cardiologists, surgeons, ophthalmologists, orthopedics, pneumologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, geneticists, and psychologists) to comprehensively characterize, treat, and manage MFS patients with a personalized medicine approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Marelli
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Micaglio
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Jacopo Taurino
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Salvi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cardiology Unit, IRCCS, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Erica Rurali
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca L Perrucci
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Dolci
- Laboratory of Functional Anatomy of the Stomatognathic System (LAFAS), Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Rosario Caruso
- Clinical Research Service, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Gentilini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Bioinformatics and Statistical Genomics Unit, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Cusano Milanino, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20095 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuliana Trifiro'
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Edward Callus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Clinical Psychology Service, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frigiola
- Department of Congenital Cardiac Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Association "Bambini Cardiopatici nel Mondo" Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), 20123 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo De Vincentiis
- Department of Cardiothoracic, Vascular Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Pappone
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cardiology Unit, IRCCS, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Taurino J, Micaglio E, Russo Raucci A, Zanussi M, Chessa M, Udugampolage NS, Carrera P, Pappone C, Pini A. Case report: Complex arterial findings in vascular ehlers-danlos syndrome with a novel COL3A1 variant and death at young age. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1110392. [PMID: 37404745 PMCID: PMC10315819 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1110392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is a genetic disease caused by a pathogenic mutation in the COL3A1 gene. Despite its severe course, the rarity and extreme clinical variability of the disease can pose significant obstacles to a timely diagnosis. Early and accurate diagnosis may lead to improved patient outcomes by providing access to targeted pharmacological treatments like celiprolol and enhancing the management of vEDS-related complications. Herein, we report a patient harboring a novel de novo COL3A1 missense variant, in which the diagnosis was only possible belatedly due to delayed referral for genetic evaluation. The patient developed pulmonary complications, aneurysms, and vascular malformations, and died at the age of 26 years due to massive pulmonary bleeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Taurino
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Micaglio
- Arrhythmology & Electrophysiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Russo Raucci
- Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Zanussi
- Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Chessa
- ACHD Unit - Pediatric and Adult Congenital Heart Centre, IRCCS-Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
- Vita & Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Paola Carrera
- Laboratory of Clinical Genomics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Genomics for the Diagnosis of Human Pathologies, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Pappone
- Arrhythmology & Electrophysiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
- Vita & Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Panetta M, Bianchetti A, Udugampolage NS, Taurino J, Caruso R, Pini A, Callus E. Discussing psychological and psychotherapeutic support for patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) and their family: an example of a structured program in Italy. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1176692. [PMID: 37397303 PMCID: PMC10307951 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1176692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Panetta
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Centre, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bianchetti
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Centre, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | | | - Jacopo Taurino
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Centre, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Rosario Caruso
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Centre, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Edward Callus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Clinical Psychology Service, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Simons E, Nikolay B, Ouedraogo P, Pasquier E, Tiemeni C, Adjaho I, Badjo C, Chamman K, Diomandé M, Dosso M, Doumbia M, Izia YA, Kakompe H, Katsomya AM, Kij V, Akissi VK, Mambula C, Mbala-Kingebeni P, Muzinga J, Ngoy B, Penali L, Pini A, Porten K, Salou H, Sevede D, Luquero F, Gignoux E. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and retrospective mortality in two African settings: Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. PLOS Glob Public Health 2023; 3:e0001457. [PMID: 37289736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although seroprevalence studies have demonstrated the wide circulation of SARS-COV-2 in African countries, the impact on population health in these settings is still poorly understood. Using representative samples of the general population, we evaluated retrospective mortality and seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Lubumbashi and Abidjan. The studies included retrospective mortality surveys and nested anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence surveys. In Lubumbashi the study took place during April-May 2021 and in Abidjan the survey was implemented in two phases: July-August 2021 and October-November 2021. Crude mortality rates were stratified between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods and further investigated by age group and COVID waves. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was quantified by rapid diagnostic testing (RDT) and laboratory-based testing (ELISA in Lubumbashi and ECLIA in Abidjan). In Lubumbashi, the crude mortality rate (CMR) increased from 0.08 deaths per 10 000 persons per day (pre-pandemic) to 0.20 deaths per 10 000 persons per day (pandemic period). Increases were particularly pronounced among <5 years old. In Abidjan, no overall increase was observed during the pandemic period (pre-pandemic: 0.05 deaths per 10 000 persons per day; pandemic: 0.07 deaths per 10 000 persons per day). However, an increase was observed during the third wave (0.11 deaths per 10 000 persons per day). The estimated seroprevalence in Lubumbashi was 15.7% (RDT) and 43.2% (laboratory-based). In Abidjan, the estimated seroprevalence was 17.4% (RDT) and 72.9% (laboratory-based) during the first phase of the survey and 38.8% (RDT) and 82.2% (laboratory-based) during the second phase of the survey. Although circulation of SARS-CoV-2 seems to have been extensive in both settings, the public health impact varied. The increases, particularly among the youngest age group, suggest indirect impacts of COVID and the pandemic on population health. The seroprevalence results confirmed substantial underdetection of cases through the national surveillance systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hugues Kakompe
- Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Vicky Kij
- Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | | | | | - Jacques Muzinga
- Laboratoire National de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Basile Ngoy
- Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Lou Penali
- Institut Pasteur Cote d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire
| | | | | | | | - Daouda Sevede
- Institut Pasteur Cote d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cresti L, Cappello G, Vailati S, Melloni E, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. In Vivo Efficacy and Toxicity of an Antimicrobial Peptide in a Model of Endotoxin-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097967. [PMID: 37175674 PMCID: PMC10178222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
SET-M33 is a synthetic peptide that is being developed as a new antibiotic against major Gram-negative bacteria. Here we report two in vivo studies to assess the toxicity and efficacy of the peptide in a murine model of pulmonary inflammation. First, we present the toxicity study in which SET-M33 was administered to CD-1 mice by snout inhalation exposure for 1 h/day for 7 days at doses of 5 and 20 mg/kg/day. The results showed adverse clinical signs and effects on body weight at the higher dose, as well as some treatment-related histopathology findings (lungs and bronchi, nose/turbinates, larynx and tracheal bifurcation). On this basis, the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) was considered to be 5 mg/kg/day. We then report an efficacy study of the peptide in an endotoxin (LPS)-induced pulmonary inflammation model. Intratracheal administration of SET-M33 at 0.5, 2 and 5 mg/kg significantly inhibited BAL neutrophil cell counts after an LPS challenge. A significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, KC, MIP-1α, IP-10, MCP-1 and TNF-α was also recorded after SET-M33 administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SetLance srl, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Elsa Melloni
- Zambon spa, Via A. Meucci 3, 20091 Bresso, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pasha A, Masi C, Carrozzo F, Rosati M, Boaretto A, Pini A, Favre C, Calvani M. Abstract 4808: Hypoxic HIF-1α stabilization dependent on β3-adrenoceptor localization in Ewing sarcoma. Cancer Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-4808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Hypoxia is a condition of oxygen deficiency which occurs in most growing solid tumors and stimulates a cascade of cell signals through a family of transcription factors named as hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) that transactivate several regulatory genes involved in tumor proliferation. β3-adrenoceptors (β3-ARs) are involved in several hypoxic scenarios and in pathological conditions where hypoxia leads to important steps for cancer progression. Studies showed that β-AR blockade of mice suppressed hypoxia induction of renal HIF-1α accumulation, erythropoietin production, and erythropoiesis in vivo. In this work we assumed that β3-AR mediates hypoxia sensing and that it was necessary for HIF-1α stabilization thus we investigated a putative correlation between β3-AR/HIF-1α. Data showed a similar outcome of β3-ARs and HIF-1α at short time of hypoxia, and that β3-AR antagonist, SR59230A reduced HIF-1α protein expression under hypoxia. β3-AR silencing under hypoxia revealed an evident reduction of HIF-1α protein expression that confirmed the β3-AR modulation of HIF-1α expression. SR59230A treatment strongly reduced the HIF-1α target genes as GLUT1, HK-2 and HIF-1α expression at long time treatment confirming the β3-AR modulation of HIF-1α transcriptional activity. Conversely, the HIF-1α-transcriptional inhibitor Topotecan did not affect β3-AR expression confirming that is β3-AR that mediates HIF-1α activation. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that β3-AR co-localized with the nucleus under hypoxia more than normoxia. These results were confirmed by nuclear-cytoplasmic fragmentation that showed the presence of both β3-AR and HIF-1α proteins in the nucleus under hypoxia. Co-immunoprecipitation of β3-AR/HIF-1α revealed that under hypoxia, HIF-1α dissociates from β3-AR binding, but this process was abrogated by SR59230A. HIF-1α, released under hypoxia from the link with β3-AR, can play its transcriptional activity in the nucleus, while the binding with β3-AR blocks its transcriptional activity. Moreover, β3-AR regulation on HIF-1α was exerted through PHD2 activity at short time as SR59230A treatment under hypoxia increased the PHD2 protein expression but not at long time treatment, thus showing a different regulation of HIF-1α at different time points. In conclusion, the β3-AR upstream of the signaling β3-AR/HIF-1α axis exerts its role by PHD2 activity.
Citation Format: Amada Pasha, Claudia Masi, Francesco Carrozzo, Martina Rosati, Alessia Boaretto, Alessandro Pini, Claudio Favre, Maura Calvani. Hypoxic HIF-1α stabilization dependent on β3-adrenoceptor localization in Ewing sarcoma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 4808.
Collapse
|
11
|
Masi C, Pasha A, Carrozzo F, Rosati M, Pini A, Calvani M, Favre C. Abstract 4772: β3-adrenoceptor minimize doxorubicin effect in Ewing sarcoma by UCP2 activation. Cancer Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-4772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
The phenomenon of “Oxygen Paradox” arises when reactive oxygen species (ROS) overcome the cellular anti-oxidant defense system through either an escalation in ROS levels or a reduced capability of the cells to increase an antioxidant response. The deregulated redox signaling that stimulate an uncontrolled ROS increase, could induce both tumor initiation and progression, and cell death after chemotherapy treatment. In recent decades, the therapeutic choice for Ewing Sarcomas (ES) consisting of a multi-drug chemotherapy regimen combined with radiotherapy and surgery, has significantly improved the survival up to 70% in localized diseases. ES patients, often show resistance to multi chemotherapeutic agents since ES cells exhibit a high sensitivity to rapid changes in intracellular redox environment. In this context, an antioxidant-inhibiting strategy was evaluated in vitro to test chemotherapeutic efficacy used in the standard treatment of ES such as the anthracycline doxorubicin (DOX) that increases ROS generation and oxidative stress (OS) in mitochondria. DOX is a strong exogenous ROS generator but lacks target specificity thereby it also affects normal cells resulting in several side-effects. Literature shows that DOX ability to reduce tumor progression is due to a DOX-induced ROS overproduction that occurs in mitochondria, known to be the main site of constant ROS production, and this effect is mediated by the mitochondrial NADPH oxidase (NADPHox) activity. To investigate why DOX causes resistance in ES patients, experiments in vitro were conducted with A673 ES cell line. A673 cells express a high level of the β3-adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) and are high susceptible to OS. Recently, β3-AR has become highly attractive in cancer biology for its ability to reduce tumor growth, metastasis, and its antioxidant properties as main regulator of the cellular response to OS. β3-AR working as ROS sensor control the redox state of the cells, driving them to life or death through mitochondria bioenergetics function. In our experimental setting DOX induced β3-AR expression which influenced the uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) expression. β3-AR/UCP2 axis strongly decreased the mitochondrial activity by reducing ATP synthesis and mitochondrial ROS content and this effect was reverted by β3-AR antagonist, SR59230A. In summary, the DOX chemotherapy promotes β3-AR expression that decreases ROS levels through β3-AR/UCP2 axis. Decreased ROS levels allow ES cells to survive chemotherapy.
Citation Format: Claudia Masi, Amada Pasha, Francesco Carrozzo, Martina Rosati, Alessandro Pini, Maura Calvani, Claudio Favre. β3-adrenoceptor minimize doxorubicin effect in Ewing sarcoma by UCP2 activation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 4772.
Collapse
|
12
|
Udugampolage NS, Pini A, Magon A, Conte G, Callus E, Taurino J, Caruso R. COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Italian Adults with Marfan Syndrome: Insights from a Secondary Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040734. [PMID: 37112646 PMCID: PMC10143721 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although vaccine hesitancy has been reported in many patient groups and countries, there is a lack of data on vaccine hesitancy in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS). MFS is a rare genetic disorder that can lead to cardiovascular, ocular, and musculoskeletal issues. Because MFS patients may face an increased risk of COVID-19 complications, vaccination is crucial for this population. This brief report aims to describe vaccine hesitancy rates in MFS patients and compare the characteristics of patients who are hesitant and those who are not to gain a better understanding of this specific population. This study analyzes previously published cross-sectional data that examined mental health, sociodemographic, and clinical factors associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and insomnia in MFS patients during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lombardy, Italy. Of the 112 MFS patients who participated, 26 (23.9%) reported vaccine hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy may be associated mainly with younger age and not be related to other patient characteristics. Therefore, this report found no differences in individual-level variables, such as sex, education, comorbidities, and mental health symptoms, between those who were hesitant and those who were not. The study findings are insightful and suggest that interventions to address vaccine hesitancy in this population may need to focus on attitudes and beliefs related to vaccination rather than targeting specific sociodemographic or clinical factors.
Collapse
|
13
|
Bruno G, Nastasi N, Subbiani A, Boaretto A, Ciullini Mannurita S, Mattei G, Nardini P, Della Bella C, Magi A, Pini A, De Marco E, Tondo A, Favre C, Calvani M. β3-adrenergic receptor on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes sustains IFN-γ-dependent PD-L1 expression and impairs anti-tumor immunity in neuroblastoma. Cancer Gene Ther 2023:10.1038/s41417-023-00599-x. [PMID: 36854895 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00599-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is a heterogeneous extracranial tumor occurring in childhood. A distinctive feature of NB tumors is their neuroendocrine ability to secrete catecholamines, which in turn, via β-adrenergic receptors ligation, may affect different signaling pathways in tumor microenvironment (TME). It was previously demonstrated that specific antagonism of β3-adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) on NB tumor cells affected tumor growth and progression. Here, in a murine syngeneic model of NB, we aimed to investigate whether the β3-AR modulation influenced the host immune system response against tumor. Results demonstrated that β3-AR antagonism lead to an immune response reactivation, partially dependent on the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling axis involvement. Indeed, β3-AR blockade on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) dampened their ability to secrete IFN-γ, which in turn reduced the PD-L1 expression, caused by TILs infiltration, on NB tumor cells. Further investigations, through a genomic analysis on NB patients, showed that high ADRB3 gene expression correlates with worse clinical outcome compared to the low expression group, and that ADRB3 gene expression affects different immune-related pathways. Overall, results indicate that β3-AR in NB TME is able to modulate the interaction between tumor and host immune system, and that its antagonism hits multiple pro-tumoral signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Bruno
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy. .,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Nicoletta Nastasi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Angela Subbiani
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessia Boaretto
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Ciullini Mannurita
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianluca Mattei
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Della Bella
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Magi
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Marco
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Tondo
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Favre
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
| | - Maura Calvani
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Filippi L, Scaramuzzo RT, Pascarella F, Pini A, Morganti R, Cammalleri M, Bagnoli P, Ciantelli M. Fetal oxygenation in the last weeks of pregnancy evaluated through the umbilical cord blood gas analysis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1140021. [PMID: 37152310 PMCID: PMC10160648 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1140021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Embryo and fetus grow and mature over the first trimester of pregnancy in a dynamic hypoxic environment, where placenta development assures an increased oxygen availability. However, it is unclear whether and how oxygenation changes in the later trimesters and, more specifically, in the last weeks of pregnancy. Methods Observational study that evaluated the gas analysis of the umbilical cord blood collected from a cohort of healthy newborns with gestational age ≥37 weeks. Umbilical venous and arterial oxygen levels as well as fetal oxygen extraction were calculated to establish whether oxygenation level changes over the last weeks of pregnancy. In addition, fetal lactate, and carbon dioxide production were analyzed to establish whether oxygen oscillations may induce metabolic effects in utero. Results This study demonstrates a progressive increase in fetal oxygenation levels from the 37th to the 41st weeks of gestation (mean venous PaO2 approximately from 20 to 25 mmHg; p < 0.001). This increase is largely attributable to growing umbilical venous PaO2, regardless of delivery modalities. In neonates born by vaginal delivery, the increased oxygen availability is associated with a modest increase in oxygen extraction, while in neonates born by cesarean section, it is associated with reduced lactate production. Independently from the type of delivery, carbon dioxide production moderately increased. These findings suggest a progressive shift from a prevalent anaerobic metabolism (Warburg effect) towards a growing aerobic metabolism. Conclusion This study confirms that fetuses grow in a hypoxic environment that becomes progressively less hypoxic in the last weeks of gestation. The increased oxygen availability seems to favor aerobic metabolic shift during the last weeks of intrauterine life; we hypothesize that this environmental change may have implications for fetal maturation during intrauterine life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Filippi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Neonatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: Luca Filippi
| | | | | | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Riccardo Morganti
- Section of Statistics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Unit of General Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Unit of General Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cresti L, Conte G, Cappello G, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Quaglia F, Ungaro F, d’Angelo I, Pini A. Inhalable Polymeric Nanoparticles for Pulmonary Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptide SET-M33: Antibacterial Activity and Toxicity In Vitro and In Vivo. Pharmaceutics 2022; 15:pharmaceutics15010003. [PMID: 36678633 PMCID: PMC9863998 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of inhalable formulations for delivering peptides to the conductive airways and shielding their interactions with airway barriers, thus enhancing peptide/bacteria interactions, is an important part of peptide-based drug development for lung applications. Here, we report the construction of a biocompatible nanosystem where the antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is encapsulated within polymeric nanoparticles of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) conjugated with polyethylene glycol (PEG). This system was conceived for better delivery of the peptide to the lungs by aerosol. The encapsulated peptide showed prolonged antibacterial activity, due to its controlled release, and much lower toxicity than the free molecule. The peptide-based nanosystem killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa in planktonic and sessile forms in a dose-dependent manner, remaining active up to 72 h after application. The encapsulated peptide showed no cytotoxicity when incubated with human bronchial epithelial cells from healthy individuals and from cystic fibrosis patients, unlike the free peptide, which showed an EC50 of about 22 µM. In vivo acute toxicity studies in experimental animals showed that the peptide nanosystem did not cause any appreciable side effects, and confirmed its ability to mitigate the toxic and lethal effects of free SET-M33.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SetLance srl, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gemma Conte
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- SetLance srl, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ivana d’Angelo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.d.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.d.); (A.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Udugampolage N, Caruso R, Magon A, Conte G, Callus E, Taurino J, Pini A. Describing post-traumatic stress disorder and its associations with depression, anxiety and insomnia: a descriptive study in Italian adults with Marfan syndrome during the COVID-19 third wave. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e067024. [PMID: 36523249 PMCID: PMC9748516 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The evaluation of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and insomnia in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in a region of northern Italy (Lombardy) and the investigation of which mental health, sociodemographic and clinical factors were associated with PTSD. DESIGN Descriptive observational design with cross-sectional data collection procedure. SETTING A single Italian MFS-specific specialised and reference centre in Lombardy (Italy) between February and April 2021. PARTICIPANTS 112 adults with MFS. The majority of participants were female (n=64; 57.1%), with a high school diploma (n=52; 46.4%) and active workers (n=66; 58.9%). The mean age was 41.89 years (SD=14.00), and the mean time from diagnosis was 15.18 years (SD=11.91). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES Descriptive statistics described PTSD, which was the primary outcome, as well as depression, anxiety and insomnia, which were the secondary outcomes. Four linear regression models described the predictors of PTSD total score and its three domains: avoidance, intrusion and hyperarousal. RESULTS One out of 10 patients with MFS had mild psychological symptoms regarding depression, anxiety and insomnia, and scores of PTSD that indicated clinical worries about the mental health status. The presence of PTSD was mainly predicted by anxiety (β=0.647; p<0.001), being older, taking psychoactive medication and being unemployed. CONCLUSION Depression, anxiety and insomnia should be monitored in patients with MFS in order to minimise PTSD insurgence. Specific psychosocial interventions should be developed and tested for this population and adopted in clinical practice, given the relevance of mental health outcomes during the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathasha Udugampolage
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Rosario Caruso
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Magon
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Gianluca Conte
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Edward Callus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Clinical Psychology Service, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Jacopo Taurino
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sgambellone S, Marri S, Catarinicchia S, Pini A, Tosh DK, Jacobson KA, Masini E, Salvemini D, Lucarini L. Adenosine A 3 Receptor (A 3AR) Agonist for the Treatment of Bleomycin-Induced Lung Fibrosis in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13300. [PMID: 36362112 PMCID: PMC9657240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenosine receptors (ARs) are involved in the suppression and development of inflammatory and fibrotic conditions. Specifically, AR activation promotes differentiation of lung fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, typical of a fibrotic event. Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of unknown etiology and lacking an effective treatment. The present investigation explored the action of MRS5980, a new, highly potent and selective A3AR agonist, in an established murine model of lung fibrosis. The effects of either vehicle or MRS5980 were studied in mice following intratracheal bleomycin administration. We evaluated the role of the A3AR agonist on lung stiffness, studying the airway resistance to inflation, oxidative stress (8-OHdG and MDA), inflammation, pro- and anti-inflammatory marker levels (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-17A) and fibrosis establishment, evaluating transforming growth factor (TGF)-β expression and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) deposition in lungs. Bleomycin administration increased lung stiffness, TGF-β levels, α-SMA deposition, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. The treatment with MRS5980 attenuated all the analyzed functional, biochemical and histopathological markers in a dose-dependent manner. Our findings support the therapeutic potential of A3AR agonists in lung fibrosis by demonstrating reduced disease progression, as indicated by decreased inflammation, TGF-β expression and fibrotic remodeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Sgambellone
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Marri
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Catarinicchia
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Histology, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Histology, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Dilip K. Tosh
- Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kenneth A. Jacobson
- Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Emanuela Masini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Salvemini
- Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University, School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Laura Lucarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cappiello F, Casciaro B, Loffredo MR, Puglisi E, Lin Q, Yang D, Conte G, d’Angelo I, Ungaro F, Ferrera L, Barbieri R, Cresti L, Pini A, Di YP, Mangoni ML. Pulmonary Safety Profile of Esc Peptides and Esc-Peptide-Loaded Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) Nanoparticles: A Promising Therapeutic Approach for Local Treatment of Lung Infectious Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2297. [PMID: 36365116 PMCID: PMC9697339 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, we have discovered Esc(1-21) and its diastereomer (Esc peptides) as valuable candidates for the treatment of Pseudomonas lung infection, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Furthermore, engineered poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were revealed to be a promising pulmonary delivery system of antimicrobial peptides. However, the "ad hoc" development of novel therapeutics requires consideration of their stability, tolerability, and safety. Hence, by means of electrophysiology experiments and preclinical studies on healthy mice, we demonstrated that neither Esc peptides or Esc-peptide-loaded PLGA NPs significantly affect the integrity of the lung epithelium, nor change the global gene expression profile of lungs of treated animals compared to those of vehicle-treated animals. Noteworthy, the Esc diastereomer endowed with the highest antimicrobial activity did not provoke any pulmonary pro-inflammatory response, even at a concentration 15-fold higher than the efficacy dosage 24 h after administration in the free or encapsulated form. The therapeutic index was ≥70, and the peptide was found to remain available in the bronchoalveolar lavage of mice, after two days of incubation. Overall, these studies should open an avenue for a new up-and-coming pharmacological approach, likely based on inhalable peptide-loaded NPs, to address CF lung disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floriana Cappiello
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Casciaro
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Loffredo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Puglisi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Qiao Lin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Dandan Yang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Gemma Conte
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ivana d’Angelo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Loretta Ferrera
- U.O.C. Genetica Medica, IRCCS, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Raffaella Barbieri
- Biophysic Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Cresti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Yuanpu Peter Di
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Pini L, Giordani J, Ciarfaglia M, Pini A, Arici M, Tantucci C. Alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency and cardiovascular disease: questions and issues of a debated relation. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2022; 23:637-645. [PMID: 36099070 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) is one of the major inhibitors involved in protease/antiprotease homeostasis, and it is mainly produced by hepatocytes and pulmonary epithelial cells. Its deficiency, called alpha1-antitrypsin deficit (AATD), leads to severe hepatic and respiratory issues. Also, AAT is released into the bloodstream providing systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Apart from acting as an acute-phase anti-inflammatory protein, it can be a biomarker for monitoring disease evolution. A reduced or defective production leads to a loss of anti-inflammatory function, protease-antiprotease imbalance and cellular engorgement due to polymers deposition, with system-wide repercussions. This review aims to evaluate AATD condition in the major vessels of the head and neck, thoracic and abdominal districts. Also, a dedicated focus on autoimmune vascular diseases will be provided. A critical revision of the main literature findings starting from the 1980s until now has been performed. Studies conducted over the years have provided several contradictory pieces of evidence. Most authors acknowledge the protective and anti-inflammatory AAT role on the vascular endothelium. However, correlations between AATD and major arteries, cerebral and cardiovascular conditions, and autoimmune diseases remain unclear. Most studies recognize the role of AATD in vascular diseases but only as a cofactor inducing cellular and tissue structure impairments. However, this condition alone is not enough to determine new disease onset. Due to the opposing results reported over the years, there is still a considerable lack of knowledge on the role covered by AATD in vascular diseases. A renewed interest in this research field should be encouraged to grant new solid evidence and validate the putative role of AATD screening and replacement therapy as useful diagnostic and treatment tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy.,Respiratory Medicine Unit, ASST - Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Jordan Giordani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Manuela Ciarfaglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Departement de épidemiologie d'Intervention et Formation, Epicentre, Paris, France
| | - Marianna Arici
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Claudio Tantucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Italy.,Respiratory Medicine Unit, ASST - Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ricci G, Maggi L, D'Amico A, Fiorillo C, Schirinzi E, Pini A, Pegoraro E, Bertini E, Bernascono P, Lattanzi G, Gerfo AL, Siciliano G. P.147 Deflazacort treatment in LMNA-related congenital muscular dystrophy: an ongoing Italian cohort pilot study. Neuromuscul Disord 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2022.07.275] [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: 11/07/2022]
|
21
|
Billò M, Frau M, Lerda A, Pini A, Vallarino P. Structure Constants in N=2 Superconformal Quiver Theories at Strong Coupling and Holography. Phys Rev Lett 2022; 129:031602. [PMID: 35905357 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.129.031602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In a four-dimensional N=2 superconformal quiver theory with gauge group SU(N)×SU(N) and bifundamental matter, we analytically obtain the exact strong-coupling behavior of the normalized 3-point correlators of single-trace scalar operators in the large-N limit using localization techniques. We then obtain the same strong-coupling behavior from the holographic dual using the AdS/CFT correspondence at the supergravity level. This agreement confirms the validity of the analytic strong-coupling results and of the holographic correspondence in a nonmaximally supersymmetric setup in four dimensions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Billò
- Università di Torino, Dipartimento di Fisica, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - sezione di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Frau
- Università di Torino, Dipartimento di Fisica, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - sezione di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Alberto Lerda
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - sezione di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
- Università del Piemonte Orientale, Dipartimento di Scienze e Innovazione Tecnologica, Viale T. Michel 11, I-15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - sezione di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Vallarino
- Università di Torino, Dipartimento di Fisica, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - sezione di Torino, Via P. Giuria 1, I-10125 Torino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Rosa AC, Nardini P, Sgambellone S, Gurrieri M, Spampinato SF, Dell’Accio A, Chazot PL, Obara I, Liu WL, Pini A. CNS-Sparing Histamine H3 Receptor Antagonist as a Candidate to Prevent the Diabetes-Associated Gastrointestinal Symptoms. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020184. [PMID: 35204685 PMCID: PMC8961615 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the histamine receptors, growing evidence points to the histamine H3 receptor as a pharmacological candidate to counteract the autonomic neuropathy associated with diabetes. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of PF00868087 (also known as ZPL-868), a CNS-sparing histamine H3 receptor antagonist, on the autonomic neuropathy of the intestinal tract associated with diabetes. Diabetes was induced in male BALB/c mice by a single high dose of streptozotocin (150 mg/kg). Colorectal specimens from control and diabetic mice, randomized to vehicle or PF0086087 (10, 30, 100 mg/kg/day by oral gavage for 14 days), were processed for morphological and immunohistochemical analysis. A significant overproduction of mucus in the intestinal mucosa of diabetic mice compared to the controls was observed. PF0086087 at the highest dose prevented mucin overproduction. The immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated that diabetes causes a decrease in the inhibitory component of enteric motility, measured as the percentage of neuronal nitric oxide synthase-positive neurons (p < 0.05) and a parallel increase in the excitatory component evaluated as substance P-positive fibres (p < 0.01). PF0086087 dose-dependently prevented these pathophysiological events. In conclusion, PF0086087 may be an essential tool in preventing nitrergic dysfunction in the myenteric plexus of the distal colon and diabetes-induced gastrointestinal complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Carolina Rosa
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.C.R.); (A.P.); Tel.: +39-0116707955 (A.C.R.); +39-0552758155 (A.P.)
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (M.G.); (A.D.)
| | - Silvia Sgambellone
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Maura Gurrieri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (M.G.); (A.D.)
| | - Simona Federica Spampinato
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy;
| | - Alfonso Dell’Accio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (M.G.); (A.D.)
| | - Paul L Chazot
- School of Biological and Biomedical Science, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK;
| | - Ilona Obara
- School of Pharmacy and Translational and Clinical Research Institute, King George VI Building, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 7RU, UK;
| | - Wai L Liu
- Liu & Co Consulting Limited, Whitstable CT5 3RF, UK;
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (M.G.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence: (A.C.R.); (A.P.); Tel.: +39-0116707955 (A.C.R.); +39-0552758155 (A.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Filippi L, Cammalleri M, Amato R, Ciantelli M, Pini A, Bagnoli P, Dal Monte M. Decoupling Oxygen Tension From Retinal Vascularization as a New Perspective for Management of Retinopathy of Prematurity. New Opportunities From β-adrenoceptors. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:835771. [PMID: 35126166 PMCID: PMC8814365 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.835771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an evolutive and potentially blinding eye disease that affects preterm newborns. Unfortunately, until now no conservative therapy of active ROP with proven efficacy is available. Although ROP is a multifactorial disease, premature exposition to oxygen concentrations higher than those intrauterine, represents the initial pathogenetic trigger. The increase of oxygenation in a retina still incompletely vascularized promotes the downregulation of proangiogenic factors and finally the interruption of vascularization (ischemic phase). However, the increasing metabolic requirement of the ischemic retina induces, over the following weeks, a progressive hypoxia that specularly increases the levels of proangiogenic factors finally leading to proliferative retinopathy (proliferative phase). Considering non-modifiable the coupling between oxygen levels and vascularization, so far, neonatologists and ophthalmologists have “played defense”, meticulously searching the minimum necessary concentration of oxygen for individual newborns, refining their diagnostic ability, adopting a careful monitoring policy, ready to decisively intervene only in a very advanced stage of disease progression. However, recent advances have demonstrated the possibility to pharmacologically modulate the relationship between oxygen and vascularization, opening thus the perspective for new therapeutic or preventive opportunities. The perspective of a shift from a defensive towards an attack strategy is now at hand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Filippi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- *Correspondence: Luca Filippi,
| | | | - Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Filippi L, Pini A, Cammalleri M, Bagnoli P, Dal Monte M. β3-Adrenoceptor, a novel player in the round-trip from neonatal diseases to cancer: Suggestive clues from embryo. Med Res Rev 2021; 42:1179-1201. [PMID: 34967048 PMCID: PMC9303287 DOI: 10.1002/med.21874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The role of the β-adrenoceptors (β-ARs) in hypoxia-driven diseases has gained visibility after the demonstration that propranolol promotes the regression of infantile hemangiomas and ameliorates the signs of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Besides the role of β2-ARs, preclinical studies in ROP have also revealed that β3-ARs are upregulated by hypoxia and that they are possibly involved in retinal angiogenesis. In a sort of figurative round trip, peculiarities typical of ROP, where hypoxia drives retinal neovascularization, have been then translated to cancer, a disease equally characterized by hypoxia-driven angiogenesis. In this step, investigating the role of β3-ARs has taken advantage of the assumption that cancer growth uses a set of strategies in common with embryo development. The possibility that hypoxic induction of β3-ARs may represent one of the mechanisms through which primarily embryo (and then cancer, as an astute imitator) adapts to grow in an otherwise hostile environment, has grown evidence. In both cancer and embryo, β3-ARs exert similar functions by exploiting a metabolic shift known as the Warburg effect, by acquiring resistance against xenobiotics, and by inducing a local immune tolerance. An additional potential role of β3-AR as a marker of stemness has been suggested by the finding that its antagonism induces cancer cell differentiation evoking that β3-ARs may help cancer to grow in a nonhospital environment, a strategy also exploited by embryos. From cancer, the round trip goes back to neonatal diseases for which new possible interpretative keys and potential pharmacological perspectives have been suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Filippi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care UnitUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, Unit of General PhysiologyUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, Unit of General PhysiologyUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, Unit of General PhysiologyUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Verta R, Gurrieri M, Borga S, Benetti E, Pollicino P, Cavalli R, Thurmond RL, Chazot PL, Pini A, Rosa AC, Grange C. The Interplay between Histamine H 4 Receptor and the Kidney Function: The Lesson from H 4 Receptor Knockout Mice. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101517. [PMID: 34680152 PMCID: PMC8533779 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies implicated the histamine H4 receptor in renal pathophysiology. The aim here is to elucidate the role of this receptor on renal function using H4 receptor knockout mice (H4R-/-). Healthy and diabetic H4R-/- mice compared to their C57BL/6J wild-type counterpart for renal function and the expression of crucial tubular proteins. H4R-/- and wild-type mice, matched for ages, showed comparable weight gain curves reaching similar median weight at the end of the study. However, H4R-/- mice displayed a higher basal glycemia. H4R-/- mice showed a lower urine 24 h outflow, and albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) compared to wild-type mice. Consistently, H4R-/- mice presented a higher expression of megalin and a lower basal expression of the sodium-hydrogen exchanger (NHE)3 and aquaporin (AQP)2. According to these basal differences, diabetic H4R-/- mice developed more severe hyperglycemia and a higher 24 h urine volume, but a lower increase in ACR and decrease in urine pH were observed. These events were paralleled by a reduced NHE3 over-expression and megalin loss in diabetic H4R-/- mice. The AQP1 and AQP7 patterns were also different between H4R-/- and wild-type diabetic mice. The collected results highlight the role of the histamine H4 receptor in the control of renal reabsorption processes, particularly albumin uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Verta
- Department of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, C.So Dogliotti 14, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Maura Gurrieri
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy; (M.G.); (S.B.); (E.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Sara Borga
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy; (M.G.); (S.B.); (E.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Elisa Benetti
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy; (M.G.); (S.B.); (E.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Paolo Pollicino
- Direzione Ricerca e Terza Missione, University of Turin, Via Bogino 9 Torino, 10123 Turin, Italy;
| | - Roberta Cavalli
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy; (M.G.); (S.B.); (E.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Robin L. Thurmond
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego, CA 92121, USA;
| | - Paul L. Chazot
- Department of Biosciences and Wolfson Research Institute, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK;
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Arianna Carolina Rosa
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy; (M.G.); (S.B.); (E.B.); (R.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-011-6707955
| | - Cristina Grange
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, C.So Dogliotti 14, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Demolder A, Muino-Mosquera L, Pini A, Evangelista A, Lopez-Sainz A, Teixido-Tura G, Jondeau G, Szocs K, Von Kodolitsch Y, Caruana M, Buttigieg L, Cervi E, Sabate-Rotes A, Montanes-Delmas E, De Backer J. Arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy in Heritable Thoracic Aortic Disease: an international retrospective cohort study. Eur Heart J 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.1989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Marfan syndrome (MFS), Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) and related heritable thoracic aortic diseases (HTAD) are well-known for their aortic complications. Myocardial dysfunction and arrhythmia are less known in this setting but have been increasingly reported as additional causes of morbidity and mortality. Related to the rarity of the disorders, data on the prevalence of these features and clinical characteristics of the patients are difficult to obtain, calling for a multicentre initiative.
Purpose
To study the prevalence of myocardial dysfunction and arrhythmia in patients with HTAD and describe their clinical and genetic profile.
Methods
Nine centres from seven countries participated in this multicentre retrospective study. Medical records of patients 12 years or older carrying a (likely) pathogenic variant in the FBN1 gene, LDS genes (TGFBR1, TGFBR2, TGFB2, TGFB3 and SMAD3) or ACTA2 gene were screened. Patients presenting myocardial dysfunction and/or arrhythmia were identified, and clinical and genetic data were collected. Myocardial dysfunction included (a)symptomatic reduced ejection fraction (EF <50% – HFrEF) or symptomatic preserved EF (HFpEF), as documented in the patient charts. Arrhythmias included atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF/AFL), ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF) and (aborted) sudden cardiac death (SCD) (presumed arrhythmogenic).
Results
In total, 3219 patients with HTAD were screened: 2761 with a variant in FBN1, 385 with a variant in one of the LDS genes (TGFBR1, TGFBR2, TGFB2, TGFB3 and SMAD3) and 73 carrying a variant in ACTA2. Myocardial dysfunction and arrhythmia were not reported in patients carrying an ACTA2 variant. Myocardial dysfunction was observed in patients with a variant in FBN1 and the LDS genes, without significant differences in prevalence (2.3% vs. 1.8%, p=0.563). Patients with a variant in the LDS genes presenting myocardial dysfunction were younger than patients carrying a variant in FBN1 (25±11 years vs. 39±17 years, p=0.034). The prevalence of VT/VF/SCD was similar in patients with a variant in one of the LDS genes compared to those with a variant in FBN1 (1.6% vs. 0.8%, p=0.132) and there was no difference in age at time of event (26±13 years vs. 33±14 years, p=0.289). Among patients with a variant in the LDS genes, the prevalence of VT/VF/SCD was highest in patients carrying a variant in the TGFBR2 gene and was significantly higher compared to patients with a variant in FBN1 (3.4% vs. 0.8%, p=0.017). In contrast, AF/AFL was significantly more often reported in patients with a variant in FBN1 compared to those with a variant in one of the LDS genes (1.7% vs. 0.3%, p=0.033).
Conclusions
Myocardial dysfunction and arrhythmia are rare features in patients with HTAD. They occur predominantly in patients with a variant in FBN1 and LDS genes, but were not reported in patients carrying a variant in the ACTA2 gene. Further analysis to identify other contributing factors is necessary.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Demolder
- Ghent University, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Cardiology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Muino-Mosquera
- Ghent University, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Paediatrics, Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Pini
- IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Cardiovascular Genetic Unit, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - A Evangelista
- University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Servicio de Cardiología, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Lopez-Sainz
- University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Servicio de Cardiología, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Teixido-Tura
- University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Servicio de Cardiología, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Jondeau
- Hospital Bichat-Claude Bernard, Centre de référence pour le syndrome de Marfan et apparentés, Paris, France
| | - K Szocs
- University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, Department of Cardiology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Y Von Kodolitsch
- University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, Department of Cardiology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - M Caruana
- Mater Dei Hospital of Malta, Department of Cardiology, Msida, Malta
| | - L Buttigieg
- Mater Dei Hospital of Malta, Department of Cardiology, Msida, Malta
| | - E Cervi
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Centre for Inherited Cardiovascular Diseases, London, United Kingdom
| | - A Sabate-Rotes
- University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Pediatric Cardiology Department, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Montanes-Delmas
- University Hospital 12 de Octubre, Instituto Pediátrico del Corazόn, Madrid, Spain
| | - J De Backer
- Ghent University, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Cardiology, Ghent, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Nerlander MP, Pini A, Trelles M, Majanen H, Al-Abbasi O, Maroof M, Ragazzoni L, von Schreeb J. Epidemiology of Patients Treated at the Emergency Department of a Medcins Sans Frontieres Field Hospital During the Mosul Offensive: Iraq, 2017e. J Emerg Med 2021; 61:774-781. [PMID: 34538676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2021.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Armed conflicts constitute a significant public health problem, and the advent of asymmetric warfare tactics creates unique and new challenges to health care organizations providing trauma care in conflicts. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze the epidemiology of presentations to a civilian field hospital deployed close to an ongoing conflict. METHODS During the 2016-2017 Mosul offensive, the humanitarian organization Médecins Sans Frontières deployed a field hospital 30 km south of Mosul. This study is a retrospective analysis of routinely collected patient data of all presentations to the emergency department (ED) during its period of operation between February 23 and July 18, 2017. Data were collected in Microsoft Excel by health care workers and analyzed in JMP, version 13. Chi-square test was used to compare proportions. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS The analysis included 3946 presentations. Most were due to conflict-related injuries, including explosives (40.4%) and firearms (12.9%), which presented in consecutive waves over time. Approximately one-third of presentations (32.3%) were due to medical issues, which outweighed conflict-related presentations toward the latter half of the operational period. Explosives caused most of the mass casualty events. A total of 20 patients (0.5%) died in the ED. CONCLUSIONS The study demonstrated a cyclical burden of conflict-related injuries and extensive medical needs, which increased over time. Among conflict-related injuries, explosive etiology predominated and was likely to result in mass casualty incidents. The low mortality might be due to critical but potentially salvageable patients not reaching the hospital in time, owing to the adverse context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian P Nerlander
- Center for Research on Health Care in Disasters, Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Miguel Trelles
- Operational Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hanna Majanen
- Operational Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Omar Al-Abbasi
- Operational Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mansour Maroof
- Operational Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luca Ragazzoni
- Center for Research and Training in Disaster Medicine, Humanitarian Aid and Global Health, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Johan von Schreeb
- Center for Research on Health Care in Disasters, Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Pilli T, Dalmazio G, Porcelli B, Cantara S, Tabucchi A, Pini A, Spreafico A, Cartocci A, Forleo R, Pacini F, Scapellato C, Castagna MG. Screening of Organ-Specific Autoantibodies in a Large Cohort of Patients with Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases. Thyroid 2021; 31:1416-1423. [PMID: 34281356 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: Autoimmune diseases tend to cluster in the same individual or in families. Four types of autoimmune polyglandular syndromes (APS) have been described based on the combination of endocrine and/or non-endocrine autoimmune diseases. In particular, type-3 APS is defined by the association of an autoimmune thyroid disease (ATD) and other autoimmune diseases and has a multifactorial etiology. The natural history of autoimmune diseases is characterized by three stages: potential, subclinical, and clinical. Methods: To determine the prevalence of organ-specific autoantibodies (anti-adrenal, anti-ovary [StCA], anti-pituitary [APA], anti-parietal cells [PCA], anti-tissue transglutaminase [tTGAb], anti-mitochondrial [AMA], anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase [GADA], anti-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor) in patients with ATD and to define the stage of the disease in patients with positive autoantibodies. From January 2016 to November 2018, 1502 patients (1302 female; age 52.7 ± 14.7 [mean ± standard deviation] years, range 18-86 years) with ATD (1285/1502 [85.6%] with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and 217/1502 [14.4%] with Graves' disease) were prospectively enrolled. Results: The most common organ-specific autoantibodies were PCA (6.99%) and GADA (2.83%), while the prevalence of the remaining autoantibodies was ≤1%. All autoimmune diseases, but celiac disease, were predominant at the potential stage. Sex, ATD type, smoking habit, and coexistence of other autoimmune diseases correlated with the susceptibility to develop chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) or autoimmune diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: The association between ATD and CAG was the most common manifestation of type-3 APS, mainly at the potential stage, that could lead to appropriate follow-up for early detection and timely treatment of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tania Pilli
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gilda Dalmazio
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Brunetta Porcelli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Cantara
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonella Tabucchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Adriano Spreafico
- Department of Innovation, Experimentation, Clinical and Translational Research, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cartocci
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Raffaella Forleo
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Furio Pacini
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Carlo Scapellato
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Castagna
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences and University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tuttolomondo D, Martini C, Nicolini F, Formica F, Pini A, Secchi F, Volpi R, De Filippo M, Gaibazzi N. Perivascular Adipose Tissue Attenuation on Computed Tomography beyond the Coronary Arteries. A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11081495. [PMID: 34441429 PMCID: PMC8393555 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11081495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Perivascular adipose tissue attenuation, measured with computed tomography imaging, is a marker of mean local vascular inflammation since it reflects the morphological changes of the fat tissue in direct contact with the vessel. This method is thoroughly validated in coronary arteries, but few studies have been performed in other vascular beds. The aim of the present study is to provide insight into the potential application of perivascular adipose tissue attenuation through computed tomography imaging in extra-coronary arteries. (2) Methods: A comprehensive search of the scientific literature published in the last 30 years (1990–2020) has been performed on Medline. (3) Results: A Medline databases search for titles, abstracts, and keywords returned 3251 records. After the exclusion of repetitions and the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria and abstract screening, 37 studies were selected for full-text evaluation. Three papers were finally included in the systematic review. Perivascular adipose tissue attenuation assessment was studied in the internal carotid artery, ascending thoracic aorta, and abdominal aorta. (4) Conclusions: Perivascular adipose tissue attenuation seems to be an applicable parameter in all investigated vascular beds, generally with good inter-observer reproducibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Tuttolomondo
- Department of Cardiology, Parma University Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy; (D.T.); (N.G.)
| | - Chiara Martini
- Department of Radiology, Parma University Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3457245174
| | - Francesco Nicolini
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Parma University Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy; (F.N.); (F.F.)
| | - Francesco Formica
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Parma University Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy; (F.N.); (F.F.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milano, Italy;
| | - Francesco Secchi
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milano, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Riccardo Volpi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Clinic, University of Parma, Maggiore Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy;
| | - Massimo De Filippo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Radiology, University of Parma, Maggiore Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy;
| | - Nicola Gaibazzi
- Department of Cardiology, Parma University Hospital, Via Gramsci 14, 43125 Parma, Italy; (D.T.); (N.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Pini L, Giordani J, Concoreggi C, Zanardini E, Pini A, Perger E, Bargagli E, Di Bona D, Ciarfaglia M, Tantucci C. Effects of short-term exposure to particulate matter on emergency department admission and hospitalization for asthma exacerbations in Brescia district. J Asthma 2021; 59:1290-1297. [PMID: 33980121 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2021.1929310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rising pollution plays a crucial role in worsening several respiratory diseases. Particulate Matter (PM)-induced asthma exacerbations are one of the most dangerous events. OBJECTIVES To assess the correlation between progressive particulate matter short-term exposure and asthma exacerbations, we investigated the role of PM levels on Emergency Department (ED) admissions and hospitalizations for these events in Brescia, an important industrial city located in northern Italy with high yearly levels of air pollution. METHODS We analyzed 1050 clinical records of ED admissions for suspected asthma exacerbation, starting from January 2014 to December 2017. Daily PM levels were collected from the Environmental Protection Regional Agency. We performed a time-series analysis using a Poisson regression model with single and multiple day-lag. Results were expressed as Relative Risk (RR) and Excess of Relative Risk (ERR) of severe asthma exacerbation over a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM10 and PM2.5 concentration. RESULTS We selected and focused our analysis on 543 admissions for indisputable asthma exacerbation in ED and hospital. The time-series study showed an increase of the RR (CI95%) for asthma exacerbation-related ED admissions of 1.24 with an ERR of 24.2% for PM2.5 at lag0-1 (p < 0.05). We also estimated for PM2.5 a RR (CI95%) of 1.12 with an ERR of 12.5% at lag0-5 (p ≤ 0.05). Again, for PM2.5, an increase of the RR (CI95%) for asthma exacerbation-related hospitalizations of 1.31 with an ERR of 30.7% at lag0-1 (p < 0.05) has been documented. These findings were confirmed and even reinforced considering only the population living in the city. CONCLUSIONS Short-term PM exposure, especially for PM2.5, plays a critical role in inducing asthma exacerbation events leading to ED admission or hospitalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pini
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, ASST - Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Jordan Giordani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Carlo Concoreggi
- Emergency Department, ASST - Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elena Zanardini
- Post-Graduate School of Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Departement de épidemiologie d'Intervention et Formation, Epicentre, Paris, France
| | - Elisa Perger
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Sleep Disorders Center & Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic Sciences, San Luca Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Bargagli
- Respiratory Diseases and Lung Transplantation, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences & Neurosciences, Siena University Hospital, Siena, Italy
| | - Danilo Di Bona
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, School and Chair of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Manuela Ciarfaglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Claudio Tantucci
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, ASST - Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Paglialonga A, Gaetano R, Robert L, Hurard M, Botella LM, Barr N, Jondeau G, Pini A. eHealth for patients with rare diseases: the eHealth Working Group of the European Reference Network on Rare Multisystemic Vascular Diseases (VASCERN). Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:164. [PMID: 33832526 PMCID: PMC8034087 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-020-01604-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The European Reference Network on Rare Multisystemic Vascular Diseases (VASCERN) was launched in 2017 and involves, to date, 35 highly specialised multidisciplinary expert centres (from the 30 full Healthcare Provider members) coming from 11 countries and more than 70 patient organizations from 16 countries. The eHealth Working Group (WG) of VASCERN was set up to develop practical, patient-centred solutions and strategies for effective use of eHealth tools to answer the needs of patients with multisystemic vascular rare diseases. The eHealth WG Following the identified patients’ needs and following the guiding principles of collaboration and patient-centredness, the eHealth WG was created with the following aims: to develop a mobile app to help patients find expert centres and patient organizations, and to develop resources (Pills of Knowledge, PoK) for training and education via digital platforms (eLearning). The mobile app includes, to date, functionalities that allow users to find expert centres and patient organizations across Europe in the area of rare multisystemic vascular diseases. Discussed app developments include personalized digital patient passports, educational material, emergency management guidelines and remote consultations. Regarding training and education, a variety of PoK have been developed. The PoK cover several topics, target several user groups, and are delivered in various formats so that they are easy-to-use, easy-to-understand, informative, and viable for delivery and sharing through digital platforms (eLearning) including, e.g., the VASCERN YouTube™ channel. Conclusion Overall, the work carried out by the eHealth WG of VASCERN can be seen as a pilot experience that may serve as a basis to for collaborative development of patient-centred eHealth tools that answer the needs of patients with various rare diseases, not limited to rare multisystemic vascular diseases. By expanding the multidisciplinary approach here described, clinical and research networks can take advantage of eHealth services and use them as strategic assets in achieving the ultimate goal of ensuring equity of access to prevention programs, timely and accurate diagnosis and specialized care for patients with rare diseases throughout Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Paglialonga
- Institute of Electronics, Information Engineering and Telecommunications (IEIIT), Italian National Research Council (CNR), Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Gaetano
- Italian National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), Palermo, Italy
| | - Leema Robert
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VASCERN HTAD European Reference Centre, Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Marine Hurard
- VASCERN Coordination Project-Team, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris Hôpital Bichat-Claude Bernard, VASCERN HTAD European Reference Centre, Paris, France
| | - Luisa Maria Botella
- Asociación HHT España, Almansa, Spain.,VASCERN European Patient Advocacy Group (ePAG), Paris, France
| | - Natasha Barr
- VASCERN Coordination Project-Team, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris Hôpital Bichat-Claude Bernard, VASCERN HTAD European Reference Centre, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Jondeau
- VASCERN Coordinator, Cardiology Department, Reference Center for Marfan Syndrome and Related Diseases, INSERM U1148 LVTS, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université de Paris, Hôpital Bichat-Claude Bernard, VASCERN HTAD European Reference Centre, Paris, France
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, 20097, San Donato Milanese, MI, Italy. .,VASCERN eHealth Working Group, Past Chair, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Tsou F, Angel M, Reinhold F, Gabay C, Bonet M, Bluthgen M, Minatta J, Bustos B, Novas C, Rizzo M, Kowalyszyn R, Cundom J, Richardet E, Ferreira G, Bradley DG, Roa G, Tatangelo M, Caglevic C, Pini A, Paskevicius M, Flores M, Pupareli C, Martin C. P21.13 Durvalumab in Locally-Advanced NSCLC in LATAM: Real World Data from Patients Included in the Early Access Program. J Thorac Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2021.01.593] [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: 11/25/2022]
|
33
|
Kaen D, Tsou F, Lupinacci L, Puparelli C, Minatta J, Rizzo M, Berutti S, Di Giovanni R, Ferreira Y, Recondo G, Carranza O, Flores M, Aman E, Di Mario G, Pini A, Castagneris N, Roa M, Enrico D, Martin C. P84.22 Outcomes of TKI Treatment in Patients with NSCLC Harboring Uncommon EGFR Mutations: A Real-World Study in Argentina. J Thorac Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2021.01.1221] [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: 10/21/2022]
|
34
|
Pini L, Giordani J, Gardini G, Concoreggi C, Pini A, Perger E, Vizzardi E, Di Bona D, Cappelli C, Ciarfaglia M, Tantucci C. Emergency department admission and hospitalization for COPD exacerbation and particulate matter short-term exposure in Brescia, a highly polluted town in northern Italy. Respir Med 2021; 179:106334. [PMID: 33640663 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2021.106334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short-term exposure to high Particulate Matter (PM) concentrations worsens several respiratory conditions. OBJECTIVES We evaluated the relationship between short-term exposure to Particulate Matter and fine Particulate Matter (PM10 - PM2.5) and Emergency Department (ED) admissions and hospitalizations for COPD exacerbation observed at the University Hospital, Spedali Civili of Brescia, a city with some of the highest yearly levels of air pollution in Italy. METHODS We collected data from patients admitted to the ED with a COPD exacerbation diagnosis, starting from January 2014 to January 2016. Daily PM levels were collected from the Environmental Protection Regional Agency (ARPA). We performed a time-series analysis using the Poisson regression model with single and multiple day-lag. Results were expressed as Relative Risk (RR) and Excess of Relative Risk (ER) for COPD exacerbation-related ED admissions and hospitalizations, over a 10μg/m3 increase in PM concentration. RESULTS We collected data from 431 COPD patients. Both PM10 and PM2.5 were significantly associated with the risk of COPD exacerbation-related ED admission and hospitalization. Each increase of 10μg/m3 of PM10 and PM2.5 corresponded respectively to a RR for ED admissions of 1.06 and 1.08 at lag0-1; 1.06 and 1.09 at lag0-5 (p < 0.05). Similar results for COPD Exacerbation-related hospitalizations were found, with a RR of 1.07 and 1.10 at lag0-1 and 1.07 and 1.11 at lag0-5 for each increase of 10μg/m3 PM10 and PM2.5, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that in a highly polluted city of Northern Italy, short-term increase in exposure to PM10-PM2.5 is associated with a higher risk of ED admission and hospitalization due to COPD exacerbation with a greater incidence during the winter season.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pini
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Jordan Giordani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Gardini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Carlo Concoreggi
- Emergency Department, ASST - Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Epicentre, Departement de épidemiologie D'Intervention et Formation, Paris, France
| | - Elisa Perger
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Sleep Disorders Center & Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic Sciences, San Luca Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Vizzardi
- Section of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Danilo Di Bona
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, School and Chair of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Carlo Cappelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Manuela Ciarfaglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Claudio Tantucci
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Parolisi R, Montarolo F, Pini A, Rovelli S, Cattaneo A, Bertolotto A, Buffo A, Bollati V, Boda E. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) hampers myelin repair in a mouse model of white matter demyelination. Neurochem Int 2021; 145:104991. [PMID: 33587955 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.104991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies show a strong association between exposure to air pollution - and particularly to particulate matter (PM) -, increased prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and higher rates of hospital admissions for MS and MS relapses. Besides having immunomodulatory effects and sustaining a systemic oxidative-inflammatory response, PM may participate in MS pathogenesis by targeting also Central Nervous System (CNS)-specific processes, such as myelin repair. Here we show that, in a mouse model of lysolecithin-induced demyelination of the subcortical white matter, post-injury exposure to fine PM hampers remyelination, disturbs oligodendroglia differentiation dynamics and promotes astroglia and microglia reactivity. These findings support the view that exposure to fine PM can contribute to demyelinating pathologies by targeting the endogenous regenerative capability of the CNS tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Parolisi
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi-Montalcini, University of Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano (Turin), Italy
| | - Francesca Montarolo
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano (Turin), Italy; Neurobiology Unit, Neurology-CReSM (Regional Referring Center of Multiple Sclerosis), AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, via Nizza 52, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rovelli
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Andrea Cattaneo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100, Como, Italy
| | - Antonio Bertolotto
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano (Turin), Italy; Neurobiology Unit, Neurology-CReSM (Regional Referring Center of Multiple Sclerosis), AOU San Luigi Gonzaga, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Annalisa Buffo
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi-Montalcini, University of Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano (Turin), Italy
| | - Valentina Bollati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrica Boda
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi-Montalcini, University of Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043, Orbassano (Turin), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Depau L, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Mandarini E, Riolo G, Zanchi M, Karousou E, Passi A, Pini A, Bracci L. Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans Can Promote Opposite Effects on Adhesion and Directional Migration of Different Cancer Cells. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15997-16011. [PMID: 33284606 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycans take part in crucial events of cancer progression, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cell migration, and cell invasion. Through sulfated groups on their glycosaminoglycan chains, heparan sulfate proteoglycans interact with growth factors, morphogens, chemokines, and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The amount and position of sulfated groups are highly variable, thus allowing differentiated ligand binding and activity of heparan sulfate proteoglycans. This variability and the lack of specific ligands have delayed comprehension of the molecular basis of heparan sulfate proteoglycan functions. Exploiting a tumor-targeting peptide tool that specifically recognizes sulfated glycosaminoglycans, we analyzed the role of membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans in the adhesion and migration of cancer cell lines. Starting from the observation that the sulfated glycosaminoglycan-specific peptide exerts a different effect on adhesion, migration, and invasiveness of different cancer cell lines, we identified and characterized three cell migration phenotypes, where different syndecans are associated with alternative signaling for directional cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marta Zanchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Evgenia Karousou
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Alberto Passi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Pini A, Fazi C, Nardini P, Calvani M, Fabbri S, Guerrini A, Forni G, La Marca G, Rosa AC, Filippi L. Effect of Beta 3 Adrenoreceptor Modulation on Patency of the Ductus Arteriosus. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122625. [PMID: 33297453 PMCID: PMC7762377 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
β3-adrenoreceptor (β3-AR), a G-protein coupled receptor, has peculiar regulatory properties in response to oxygen and widespread localization. β3-AR is expressed in the most frequent neoplasms, also occurring in pregnant women, and its blockade reduces tumor growth, indicating β3-AR-blockers as a promising alternative to antineoplastic drugs during pregnancy. However, β3-AR involvement in prenatal morphogenesis and the consequences of its blockade for the fetus remain unknown. In this study, after the demonstrated expression of β3-AR in endothelial and smooth muscle cells of ductus arteriosus (DA), C57BL/6 pregnant mice were acutely treated at 18.5 of gestational day (GD) with indomethacin or with the selective β3-AR antagonist SR59230A, or chronically exposed to SR59230A from 15.5 to 18.5 GD. Six hours after the last treatment, fetuses were collected. Furthermore, newborn mice were treated straight after birth with BRL37344, a β3-AR agonist, and sacrificed after 7 h. SR59230A, at the doses demonstrated effective in reducing cancer progression (10 and 20 mg/kg) in acute and chronic mode, did not induce fetal DA constriction and did not impair the DA ability to close after birth, whereas at the highest dose (40 mg/kg), it was shown to cause DA constriction and preterm-delivery. BRL37344 administered immediately after birth did not alter the physiological DA closure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.P.); (L.F.); Tel.: +39-0552758155 (A.P.); +39-050993677 (L.F)
| | - Camilla Fazi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Maura Calvani
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Sergio Fabbri
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Guerrini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy;
| | - Giulia Forni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pediatric Neurosciences, “A. Meyer” University Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.F.); (G.L.M.)
| | - Giancarlo La Marca
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pediatric Neurosciences, “A. Meyer” University Children’s Hospital, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.F.); (G.L.M.)
| | - Arianna Carolina Rosa
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, 10125 Turin, Italy;
| | - Luca Filippi
- Division of Neonatology and NICU, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.P.); (L.F.); Tel.: +39-0552758155 (A.P.); +39-050993677 (L.F)
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Brunetti J, Carnicelli V, Ponzi A, Di Giulio A, Lizzi AR, Cristiano L, Cresti L, Cappello G, Pollini S, Mosconi L, Rossolini GM, Bracci L, Falciani C, Pini A. Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of an Antimicrobial Peptide Synthesized with D Amino Acids. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9120840. [PMID: 33255172 PMCID: PMC7760307 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide SET-M33 is a molecule synthesized in tetra-branched form which is being developed as a new antibiotic against Gram-negative bacteria. Its isomeric form with D amino acids instead of the L version (SET-M33D) is also able to kill Gram-positive bacteria because of its higher resistance to bacterial proteases (Falciani et al., PLoS ONE, 2012, 7, e46259). Here we report the strong in vitro activity of SET-M33D (MIC range 0.7-6.0 µM) against multiresistant pathogens of clinical interest, including Gram-positives Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Enterococcus faecalis, and various Gram-negative enterobacteriaceae. SET-M33D antibacterial activity is also confirmed in vivo against a MRSA strain of S. aureus with doses perfectly compatible with clinical use (5 and 2.5 mg/Kg). Moreover, SET-M33D strongly neutralized lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA), thus exerting a strong anti-inflammatory effect, reducing expression of cytokines, enzymes, and transcription factors (TNF-α, IL6, COX-2, KC, MIP-1, IP10, iNOS, NF-κB) involved in the onset and evolution of the inflammatory process. These results, along with in vitro and in vivo toxicity data and the low frequency of resistance selection reported here, make SET-M33D a strong candidate for the development of a new broad spectrum antibiotic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Veronica Carnicelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Alessia Ponzi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Antonio Di Giulio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Anna Rita Lizzi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Loredana Cristiano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Laura Cresti
- SetLance srl, Toscana Life Sciences, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Mosconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Nardini P, Pini A, Bessard A, Duchalais E, Niccolai E, Neunlist M, Vannucchi MG. GLP-2 Prevents Neuronal and Glial Changes in the Distal Colon of Mice Chronically Treated with Cisplatin. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228875. [PMID: 33238628 PMCID: PMC7700273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used for the treatment of solid cancers. Its administration is commonly associated with acute and chronic gastrointestinal dysfunctions, likely related to mucosal and enteric nervous system (ENS) injuries, respectively. Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) is a pleiotropic hormone exerting trophic/reparative activities on the intestine, via antiapoptotic and pro-proliferating pathways, to guarantee mucosal integrity, energy absorption and motility. Further, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Presently, cisplatin acute and chronic damages and GLP-2 protective effects were investigated in the mouse distal colon using histological, immunohistochemical and biochemical techniques. The mice received cisplatin and the degradation-resistant GLP-2 analog ([Gly2]GLP-2) for 4 weeks. Cisplatin-treated mice showed mucosal damage, inflammation, IL-1β and IL-10 increase; decreased number of total neurons, ChAT- and nNOS-immunoreactive (IR) neurons; loss of SOX-10-IR cells and reduced expression of GFAP- and S100β-glial markers in the myenteric plexus. [Gly2]GLP-2 co-treatment partially prevented mucosal damage and counteracted the increase in cytokines and the loss of nNOS-IR and SOX-10-IR cells but not that of ChAT-IR neurons. Our data demonstrate that cisplatin causes mucosal injuries, neuropathy and gliopathy and that [Gly2]GLP-2 prevents these injuries, partially reducing mucosal inflammation and inducing ENS remodeling. Hence, this analog could represent an effective strategy to overcome colonic injures induced by cisplatin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Nardini
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (A.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (A.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Anne Bessard
- Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, University of Nantes, 44035 Nantes, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Emilie Duchalais
- Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, University of Nantes, 44035 Nantes, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Elena Niccolai
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (A.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Michel Neunlist
- Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, University of Nantes, 44035 Nantes, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Maria Giuliana Vannucchi
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (P.N.); (A.P.); (E.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-275-8152
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Maconi G, Pini A, Pasqualone E, Ardizzone S, Bassotti G. Abdominal Symptoms and Colonic Diverticula in Marfan’s Syndrome: A Clinical and Ultrasonographic Case Control Study. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9103141. [PMID: 32998474 PMCID: PMC7599469 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Marfan’s syndrome (MFS) seems to be frequently associated with colonic diverticulosis, but the prevalence of diverticula and symptoms evocative of diverticular disease in this population are still unknown. Methods: This prospective case control study included 90 consecutive patients with MFS, 90 unselected controls, and 90 asymptomatic subjects. The clinical characteristics, including lower gastrointestinal symptoms, and ultrasonographic features of the bowel, including diverticula and thickening of the muscularis propria of the sigmoid colon, were investigated. In addition, the genotype of MFS patients was assessed. The characteristics of patients and controls were compared using parametric tests. Results: Complaints of abdominal symptoms were made by 23 (25.6%) patients with MFS and 48 (53%) control subjects (p < 0.01). Constipation and bloating were reported less frequently by MFS patients than controls (constipation: 13.3% vs. 26.6%, p = 0.039; bloating: 3.3% vs. 41.1%, p < 0.0001), while other symptoms were not significantly different. Sigmoid diverticulosis was detected in 12 (12.3%) patients with MFS, as well as in 3 (3.3%) asymptomatic healthy subjects and 4 (4.4%) random controls (p = 0.0310). The genetic variants of MFS were not correlated with symptoms or diverticula. Conclusion: Patients with MFS have a greater prevalence of diverticula, although less abdominal symptoms, compared to the general population. Symptoms and diverticula in MFS are not correlated with any genetic variant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Maconi
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (E.P.); (S.A.)
- Correspondence: Giovanni ; Tel.: +39-023-904-3164
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 San Donato Milanese, Italy;
| | - Elia Pasqualone
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (E.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Sandro Ardizzone
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy; (E.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Gabrio Bassotti
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology Section, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia Medical School, 06122 Perugia, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Pini L, Giordani JF, Concoreggi C, Gardini G, Cadone Ughi E, Pini A, Magri R, Levi G, Pedroni L, Ciarfaglia M, Tantucci C. Impact of Particulate Matter on Emergency Department admissions and hospitalizations for COPD Exacerbation. Epidemiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.430] [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: 11/05/2022]
|
42
|
Pini L, Giordani JF, Concoreggi C, Zanardini E, Pini A, Piovanelli P, Levi G, Pedroni L, Ciarfaglia M, Tantucci C. Effects of short-term exposure to Particulate Matter on Emergency Department admissions for Asthma Exacerbation. Epidemiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.1389] [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: 11/05/2022]
|
43
|
Calvani M, Dabraio A, Subbiani A, Buonvicino D, De Gregorio V, Ciullini Mannurita S, Pini A, Nardini P, Favre C, Filippi L. β3-Adrenoceptors as Putative Regulator of Immune Tolerance in Cancer and Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2098. [PMID: 32983164 PMCID: PMC7492666 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms of immune tolerance is currently one of the most important challenges of scientific research. Pregnancy affects the immune system balance, leading the host to tolerate embryo alloantigens. Previous reports demonstrated that β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) signaling promotes immune tolerance by modulation of NK and Treg, mainly through the activation of β2-ARs, but recently we have demonstrated that also β3-ARs induce an immune-tolerant phenotype in mice bearing melanoma. In this report, we demonstrate that β3-ARs support host immune tolerance in the maternal microenvironment by modulating the same immune cells populations as recently demonstrated in cancer. Considering that β3-ARs are modulated by oxygen levels, we hypothesize that hypoxia, through the upregulation of β3-AR, promotes the biological shift toward a tolerant immunophenotype and that this is the same trick that embryo and cancer use to create an aura of immune-tolerance in a competent immune environment. This study confirms the analogies between fetal development and tumor progression and suggests that the expression of β3-ARs represents one of the strategies to induce fetal and tumor immune tolerance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maura Calvani
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Annalisa Dabraio
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Angela Subbiani
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Veronica De Gregorio
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Ciullini Mannurita
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Favre
- Department of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Luca Filippi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Medical Surgical Feto-Neonatal Department, A. Meyer University Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Salvi P, Furlanis G, Grillo A, Pini A, Salvi L, Marelli S, Rovina M, Moretti F, Gaetano R, Pintassilgo I, Faini A, Fabris B, Carretta R, Parati G. Unreliable Estimation of Aortic Pulse Wave Velocity Provided by the Mobil-O-Graph Algorithm-Based System in Marfan Syndrome. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 8:e04028. [PMID: 31020905 PMCID: PMC6512139 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.118.011440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Several devices have been proposed to assess arterial stiffness in clinical daily use over the past few years, by estimating aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) from a single measurement of brachial oscillometric blood pressure, using patented algorithms. It is uncertain if these systems are able to provide additional elements, beyond the contribution carried by age and blood pressure levels, in the definition of early vascular damage expressed by the stiffening of the arterial wall. Methods and Results The aim of our study was to compare the estimated algorithm-based PWV values, provided by the Mobil-O-Graph system, with the standard noninvasive assessment of aortic PWV in patients with Marfan syndrome (ie, in subjects characterized by premature aortic stiffening and low blood pressure values). Aortic stiffness was simultaneously evaluated by carotid-femoral PWV with a validated arterial tonometer and estimated with an arm cuff-based ambulatory blood pressure monitoring Mobil-O-Graph device on 103 patients with Marfan syndrome (50 men; mean± SD age, 38±15 years). Aortic PWV, estimated by the Mobil-O-Graph, was significantly ( P<0.0001) lower (mean± SD, 6.1±1.3 m/s) than carotid-femoral PWV provided by arterial tonometry (mean± SD , 8.8±3.1 m/s). The average of differences between PWV values provided by the 2 methods (±1.96×SD) was -2.7±5.7 m/s. Conclusions The Mobil-O-Graph provides PWV values related to an ideal subject for a given age and blood pressure, but it is not able to evaluate early vascular aging expressed by high PWV in the individual patient. This is well shown in patients with Marfan syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Salvi
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic SciencesIstituto Auxologico ItalianoIRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Giulia Furlanis
- Department of MedicalSurgical and Health SciencesUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly
| | - Andrea Grillo
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic SciencesIstituto Auxologico ItalianoIRCCSMilanItaly
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐BicoccaMilanItaly
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of CardiologyAzienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Fatebenefratelli SaccoRare Disease Center “Marfan Clinic”MilanItaly
| | - Lucia Salvi
- Department of Internal Medicine and TherapeuticsFondazione IRCCS Policlinico San MatteoUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Susan Marelli
- Department of CardiologyAzienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Fatebenefratelli SaccoRare Disease Center “Marfan Clinic”MilanItaly
| | - Matteo Rovina
- Department of MedicalSurgical and Health SciencesUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly
| | - Francesco Moretti
- Department of Molecular MedicineFondazione IRCCS Policlinico San MatteoUniversity of PaviaItaly
| | | | | | - Andrea Faini
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic SciencesIstituto Auxologico ItalianoIRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Bruno Fabris
- Department of MedicalSurgical and Health SciencesUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly
| | - Renzo Carretta
- Department of MedicalSurgical and Health SciencesUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly
- Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Immunology “A. Monroy,”National Research Council of Italy (CNR)PalermoItaly
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic SciencesIstituto Auxologico ItalianoIRCCSMilanItaly
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐BicoccaMilanItaly
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Trifirò G, Mora S, Marelli S, Luzi L, Pini A. Increased fracture rate in children and adolescents with Marfan syndrome. Bone 2020; 135:115333. [PMID: 32222606 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal genetic disorder of connective tissue, due to alterated fibrillin-1. The aim of our study was to verify the rate of fractures in children with MFS in correlation to bone mineral density and compare the prevalence to the general population in the same latitude. We enrolled 80 patients (37 girls and 43 boys) with the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome, median age 10 y (3 to 17 years). Fracture occurrence was inferred from medical records of patients with MFS. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at lumbar spine, femoral neck and total femur by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. BMD values were expressed as z-scores, and adjusted for height using height-for-age z-scores. Bone turnover markers and vitamin D were measured. We assessed incidence of fracture in general pediatric population of our geographic area (45°N latitude). A total of 24 fractures were recorded in 21 patients (15 boys and 6 girls), involving both short and long bones, due to mild or moderate trauma. An incidence estimate has been calculated for each year, and an average incidence of 29.2/1000 MFS patients was obtained, markedly higher (P=0.034) than the incidence of fracture calculated in the same geographical area in pediatric patients (15.8/1000). We did not detect differences in anthropometric measurements, BMD values and biochemical indices between patients who fractured and patients who did not. Similarly, no differences were found between patients on losartan therapy and patients not in treatment for the same variables. In conclusion, the incidence of fractures was higher in patients with MFS compared to general population of the same age and latitude. The management of MFS must account bone status health and start strategies of fracture prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Trifirò
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Division, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy.
| | - Stefano Mora
- Laboratory of Pediatric Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Susan Marelli
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Livio Luzi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Division and Università degli Studi di Milano, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Pini L, Giordani J, Concoreggi C, Gardini G, Raffetti E, Pini A, Levi G, Pedroni L, Ciarfaglia M, Magri R, Tantucci C. EVALUATING THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT ADMISSION AND HOSPITALIZATION TREND FOR COPD EXACERBATION AND TIME-DEPENDENT PARTICULATE MATTER EXPOSURE. Chest 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2020.05.378] [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: 10/24/2022] Open
|
47
|
Salvi L, Alfonsi J, Grillo A, Pini A, Soranna D, Zambon A, Pacini D, Di Bartolomeo R, Salvi P, Parati G. Postoperative and mid-term hemodynamic changes after replacement of the ascending aorta. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2020; 163:1283-1292. [PMID: 32624310 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2020.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate aortic distensibility and pulse waveform patterns associated with the ascending aortic aneurysm, and to analyze the postoperative and mid-term hemodynamic changes induced by prosthetic replacement of the ascending aorta. METHODS Central blood pressure waves were recorded at the carotid artery level by means of a validated transcutaneous arterial tonometer in 30 patients undergoing prosthetic replacement of ascending aortic aneurysm and in 30 control patients. Measurements were obtained the day before surgery and 5 to 7 days and 16 to 20 months after surgery. RESULTS The ascending aortic aneurysm was associated with a less steep slope of early systolic phase of the pressure curve (pulsus tardus) compared with a control group (0.54 ± 0.18 mm Hg/ms vs 0.69 ± 0.26 mm Hg/ms; P = .011). Replacing the ascending aorta with a noncompliant vascular prosthesis steepened the pulse pressure slope during the early systolic phase in the postoperative period (0.77 ± .29 mm Hg/ms), providing values comparable with those of the control group in the mid-term (0.67 ± .20 mm Hg/ms). No change in aortic stiffness was found either postoperatively or in the mid-term after ascending aorta surgical replacement (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity: preoperative, 9.0 ± 2.6 m/s; postoperative, 9.0 ± 2.9 m/s; mid-term postoperative, 9.3 ± 2.8 m/s). CONCLUSIONS This study does not confirm the assumption that substitution of the viscoelastic ascending aorta with a rigid prosthesis can cause serious hemodynamic alterations downstream, because we did not observe a worsening of global aortic distensibility after insertion of a rigid prosthetic aorta. The ascending aortic aneurysm is associated with a pulsus tardus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Salvi
- Foundation IRCCS Polyclinic San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Jacopo Alfonsi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, S Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Grillo
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Vascular Cardiogenetic Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
| | - Davide Soranna
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Zambon
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy; Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Pacini
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, S Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, S Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Salvi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy.
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ritter D, Knebel J, Niehof M, Loinaz I, Marradi M, Gracia R, te Welscher Y, van Nostrum CF, Falciani C, Pini A, Strandh M, Hansen T. In vitro inhalation cytotoxicity testing of therapeutic nanosystems for pulmonary infection. Toxicol In Vitro 2020; 63:104714. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2019.104714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
49
|
Amato R, Giannaccini M, Dal Monte M, Cammalleri M, Pini A, Raffa V, Lulli M, Casini G. Association of the Somatostatin Analog Octreotide With Magnetic Nanoparticles for Intraocular Delivery: A Possible Approach for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:144. [PMID: 32158755 PMCID: PMC7051943 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The somatostatin analog octreotide (OCT) displays important neuroprotective and anti-angiogenic properties that could make it an interesting candidate to treat diabetic retinopathy (DR). Unfortunately, systemic drug administration is hindered by severe side effects, therefore topical administration routes are preferable. However, drug delivery through eye drops may be difficult due to ocular barriers and, in the long term, could induce ocular damage. On the other hand, intraocular injections must be repeated to maintain drug concentration, and this may cause severe damage to the eye. To decrease injection frequency, long-term release and reduced biodegradation could be obtained by binding the drug to biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles. In the present study, we made a preparation of OCT bound to magnetic nanoparticles (MNP-OCT) and tested its possible use as an OCT delivery system to treat retinal pathologies such as DR. In particular, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental models of the mammalian retina were used to investigate the possible toxicity of MNPs, possible effects of the binding to MNPs on OCT bioactivity, and the localization of MNP-OCT in the retina after intraocular injection. The results showed that, both in human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) and in mouse retinal explants, MNPs were not toxic and the binding with MNPs did not influence OCT antiangiogenic or antiapoptotic activity. Rather, effects of MNP-OCT were observed at concentrations up to 100-fold (in HRECs) or 10-fold (in mouse retinal explants) lower compared to OCT, indicating that OCT bioactivity was enhanced in MNP-OCT. MNP-OCT in mouse retinas in vivo after intraocular delivery were initially localized mainly to the outer retina, at the level of the retinal pigment epithelium, while after 5 days they were observed throughout the retinal thickness. These observations demonstrate that MNP-OCT may be used as an OCT intraocular delivery system that may ensure OCT localization to the retina and enhanced OCT bioactivity. Further studies will be necessary to determine the OCT release rate in the retina and the persistence of drug effects in the long period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Lulli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Falciani C, Zevolini F, Brunetti J, Riolo G, Gracia R, Marradi M, Loinaz I, Ziemann C, Cossío U, Llop J, Bracci L, Pini A. Antimicrobial Peptide-Loaded Nanoparticles as Inhalation Therapy for Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:1117-1128. [PMID: 32110011 PMCID: PMC7034994 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s218966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antibiotic-resistant bacteria kill 25,000 people every year in the EU. Patients subject to recurrent lung infections are the most vulnerable to severe or even lethal infections. For these patients, pulmonary delivery of antibiotics would be advantageous, since inhalation can achieve higher concentration in the lungs than iv administration and can provide a faster onset of action. This would allow for the delivery of higher doses and hence reduce the number of treatments required. We report here about a new nanosystem (M33-NS) obtained by capturing SET-M33 peptide on single-chain dextran nanoparticles. SET-M33 is a non-natural antimicrobial peptide synthesized in branched form. This form gives the peptide resistance to degradation in biological fluids. SET-M33 has previously shown efficacy in vitro against about one hundred of Gram-negative multidrug and extensively drug-resistant clinical isolates and was also active in preclinical infection models of pneumonia, sepsis and skin infections. METHODS The new nanosystem was evaluated for its efficacy in bacteria cells and in a mouse model of pneumonia. Toxicity and genotoxicity were also tested in vitro. Biodistribution and pharmacokinetic studies in healthy rats were carried out using a radiolabeled derivative of the nanosystem. RESULTS The M33-nanosystem, studied here, showed to be effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in time-kill kinetic experiments. Cytotoxicity towards different animal cell lines was acceptable. Lung residence time of the antimicrobial peptide, administered via aerosol in healthy rats, was markedly improved by capturing SET-M33 on dextran nanoparticles. M33-NS was also efficient in eradicating pulmonary infection in a BALB/c mouse model of pneumonia caused by P. aeruginosa. DISCUSSION This study revealed that the encapsulation of the antimicrobial peptide in dextran nanoparticles markedly improved lung residence time of the peptide administered via aerosol. The result has to be considered among the aims of the development of a new therapeutic option for patients suffering recurrent infections, that will benefit from high local doses of persistent antimicrobials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Zevolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Raquel Gracia
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Marco Marradi
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Iraida Loinaz
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Christina Ziemann
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
| | - Unai Cossío
- CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Jordi Llop
- CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), San Sebastian, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en red Enfermedades Respiratorias – CIBERES, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|