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Trotta MC, Gesualdo C, Lepre CC, Russo M, Ferraraccio F, Panarese I, Marano E, Grieco P, Petrillo F, Hermenean A, Simonelli F, D’Amico M, Bucolo C, Lazzara F, De Nigris F, Rossi S, Platania CBM. Ocular pharmacological and biochemical profiles of 6-thioguanine: a drug repurposing study. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1375805. [PMID: 38590636 PMCID: PMC10999531 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1375805] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The purine analog 6-thioguanine (6TG), an old drug approved in the 60s to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), was tested in the diabetic retinopathy (DR) experimental in vivo setting along with a molecular modeling approach. Methods A computational analysis was performed to investigate the interaction of 6TG with MC1R and MC5R. This was confirmed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to high glucose (25 mM) for 24 h. Cell viability in HUVECs exposed to high glucose and treated with 6TG (0.05-0.5-5 µM) was performed. To assess tube formation, HUVECs were treated for 24 h with 6TG 5 µM and AGRP (0.5-1-5 µM) or PG20N (0.5-1-5-10 µM), which are MC1R and MC5R antagonists, respectively. For the in vivo DR setting, diabetes was induced in C57BL/6J mice through a single streptozotocin (STZ) injection. After 2, 6, and 10 weeks, diabetic and control mice received 6TG intravitreally (0.5-1-2.5 mg/kg) alone or in combination with AGRP or PG20N. Fluorescein angiography (FA) was performed after 4 and 14 weeks after the onset of diabetes. After 14 weeks, mice were euthanized, and immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess retinal levels of CD34, a marker of endothelial progenitor cell formation during neo-angiogenesis. Results The computational analysis evidenced a more stable binding of 6TG binding at MC5R than MC1R. This was confirmed by the tube formation assay in HUVECs exposed to high glucose. Indeed, the anti-angiogenic activity of 6TG was eradicated by a higher dose of the MC5R antagonist PG20N (10 µM) compared to the MC1R antagonist AGRP (5 µM). The retinal anti-angiogenic effect of 6TG was evident also in diabetic mice, showing a reduction in retinal vascular alterations by FA analysis. This effect was not observed in diabetic mice receiving 6TG in combination with AGRP or PG20N. Accordingly, retinal CD34 staining was reduced in diabetic mice treated with 6TG. Conversely, it was not decreased in diabetic mice receiving 6TG combined with AGRP or PG20N. Conclusion 6TG evidenced a marked anti-angiogenic activity in HUVECs exposed to high glucose and in mice with DR. This seems to be mediated by MC1R and MC5R retinal receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Claudia Lepre
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Russo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Franca Ferraraccio
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Iacopo Panarese
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Ernesto Marano
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D’Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filomena De Nigris
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Synoradzki KJ, Paduszyńska N, Solnik M, Toro MD, Bilmin K, Bylina E, Rutkowski P, Yousef YA, Bucolo C, Zweifel SA, Reibaldi M, Fiedorowicz M, Czarnecka AM. From Molecular Biology to Novel Immunotherapies and Nanomedicine in Uveal Melanoma. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:778-800. [PMID: 38392052 PMCID: PMC10887618 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31020058] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Molecular biology studies of uveal melanoma have resulted in the development of novel immunotherapy approaches including tebentafusp-a T cell-redirecting bispecific fusion protein. More biomarkers are currently being studied. As a result, combined immunotherapy is being developed as well as immunotherapy with bifunctional checkpoint inhibitory T cell engagers and natural killer cells. Current trials cover tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), vaccination with IKKb-matured dendritic cells, or autologous dendritic cells loaded with autologous tumor RNA. Another potential approach to treat UM could be based on T cell receptor engineering rather than antibody modification. Immune-mobilizing monoclonal T cell receptors (TCR) against cancer, called ImmTAC TM molecules, represent such an approach. Moreover, nanomedicine, especially miRNA approaches, are promising for future trials. Finally, theranostic radiopharmaceuticals enabling diagnosis and therapy with the same molecule bring hope to this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil J. Synoradzki
- Environmental Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Research, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawinskiego Str., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Natalia Paduszyńska
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (N.P.); (M.S.)
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 5 Roentgen Str., 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Malgorzata Solnik
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (N.P.); (M.S.)
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 5 Roentgen Str., 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chmielna Str., 20-079 Lublin, Poland;
- Eye Clinic, Public Health Department, Federico II University, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Krzysztof Bilmin
- Research and Development Centre Novasome Sp. z o.o., 51-423 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Elżbieta Bylina
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 5 Roentgen Str., 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (P.R.)
- Department of Clinical Trials, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 5 Roentgen Str., 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Yacoub A. Yousef
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman 11941, Jordan;
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Sandrine Anne Zweifel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Faculty of Human Medicine, University of Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, Citta della Salute e della Scienza, Turin University, 10122 Turin, Italy;
| | - Michal Fiedorowicz
- Small Animal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Laboratory, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawinskiego Str., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna M. Czarnecka
- Department of Soft Tissue/Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 5 Roentgen Str., 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (P.R.)
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawinskiego Str., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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Lazzara F, Conti F, Giuffrida E, Eandi CM, Drago F, Platania CBM, Bucolo C. Integrating network pharmacology: The next-generation approach in ocular drug discovery. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 74:102425. [PMID: 38183849 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2023.102425] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
With the spread of the "omics" sciences, the approaches of systems biology can be considered as new paradigms of pharmacological research for discovery of novel targets and/or treatments for complex multifactorial diseases. Data from omics sciences can be used for the design of biologic networks, that in turn can be quantitatively analyzed to identify new pharmacological targets. In this review, we will introduce the concept of network pharmacology, particularly the application of this innovative approach in the field of ocular pharmacology, with a focus on retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Erika Giuffrida
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Surgical Science, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Magrì B, Giunta S, Saccone S, Federico C, Bucolo C, Musumeci G, D'Agata V. Protective effect of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide in diabetic keratopathy. Peptides 2023; 170:171107. [PMID: 37775045 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171107] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic keratopathy (DK) is the major complication of the cornea characterizing diabetes-affected patients. This ocular pathology is correlated with the hyperglycemic state leading to delayed corneal wound healing and recurrent corneal ulcers. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread distribution throughout the body, and exerting cytoprotective effects in the neural and non-neuronal parts of the eye, including the cornea. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether changes in PACAP expression can concur for delayed epithelial wound healing in diabetic cornea and whether the protective effect of the peptide could be mediated through the activation of the EGFR signaling pathway, which has been reported to be impaired in DK. Expression and distribution of PACAP, PAC1R, and EGFR were investigated through immunohistochemistry analysis in the cornea of normal and diabetic rats. The role of the peptide on wound healing during DK was evaluated in an in vitro model represented by rabbit corneal epithelial cells grown in high glucose conditions. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis were used to examine the ability of PACAP to induce the activation of the EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Our results showed that in diabetic cornea the expression of PACAP, PAC1R, and EGFR is drastically reduced. The treatment with PACAP via PAC1R activation enhanced cell viability and corneal epithelium wound healing in cells grown under high glucose conditions. Furthermore, both EGFR and ERK1/2 signaling was induced upon the peptide treatment. Overall, our results showed the trophic efficiency of PACAP for enhancing the corneal epithelium re-epithelialization suggesting that the peptide could be beneficially valuable as a treatment for DK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of System Biology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Benedetta Magrì
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
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Conti F, Di Martino S, Drago F, Bucolo C, Micale V, Montano V, Siciliano G, Mancuso M, Lopriore P. Red Flags in Primary Mitochondrial Diseases: What Should We Recognize? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16746. [PMID: 38069070 PMCID: PMC10706469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316746] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMDs) are complex group of metabolic disorders caused by genetically determined impairment of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The unique features of mitochondrial genetics and the pivotal role of mitochondria in cell biology explain the phenotypical heterogeneity of primary mitochondrial diseases and the resulting diagnostic challenges that follow. Some peculiar features ("red flags") may indicate a primary mitochondrial disease, helping the physician to orient in this diagnostic maze. In this narrative review, we aimed to outline the features of the most common mitochondrial red flags offering a general overview on the topic that could help physicians to untangle mitochondrial medicine complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.C.); (S.D.M.); (C.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Serena Di Martino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.C.); (S.D.M.); (C.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.C.); (S.D.M.); (C.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.C.); (S.D.M.); (C.B.); (V.M.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95213 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.C.); (S.D.M.); (C.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Montano
- Neurological Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy (P.L.)
| | - Gabriele Siciliano
- Neurological Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy (P.L.)
| | - Michelangelo Mancuso
- Neurological Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy (P.L.)
| | - Piervito Lopriore
- Neurological Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy (P.L.)
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D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Magrì B, Lombardo C, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro P, Giunta S, Bucolo C, D'Agata V. PACAP-ADNP axis prevents outer retinal barrier breakdown and choroidal neovascularization by interfering with VEGF secreted from retinal pigmented epitelium cells. Peptides 2023; 168:171065. [PMID: 37495040 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171065] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
During diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression, the retina undergoes various metabolic changes, including hypoxia-signalling cascade induction in the cells of retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE). The overexpression of hypoxic inducible factors causes transcription of many target genes including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The RPE cells form the outer blood retinal barrier (oBRB), a specialized structure that regulates ions and metabolites flux into the retina to maintain a suitable quality of its extracellular microenvironment. VEGF worsens retinal condition since its secretion from the basolateral compartment of RPE cells compromises the barrier's integrity and induces choroidal neovascularization. In this work, we hypothesized that PACAP prevents the damage to oBRB and controls choroidal neovascularization through the induction of ADNP. Firstly, we demonstrated that ADNP is expressed in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic animals. To validate our hypothesis, we cultured endothelial cells (H5V) forming vessels-like structures, in a conditioned medium (CM) derived from ARPE-19 cells exposed to hyperglycaemic/hypoxic insult, containing a known VEGF concentration. The involvement of PACAP-ADNP axis on oBRB integrity was evaluated through the measurement of trans-epithelial-electrical resistance and permeability assay performed on ARPE cell monolayer cultured in CM and by analysing the expression of two tight junction forming proteins, ZO1 and occludin. By culturing H5V in CM, we demonstrated that PACAP-ADNP axis counteracted vessels-like structures formation promoted by VEGF. In conclusion, the results suggested a primary role of PACAP/ADNP axis in preventing oBRB damage and in controlling aberrant choroidal neovascularization induced by VEGF secreted from RPE cells exposed to hyperglycaemia/hypoxic insult in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of System Biology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Benedetta Magrì
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudia Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Paola Cavallaro
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Giunta S, D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Bucolo C, Romano GL, Rossi S, Eandi CM, Pricoco E, D'Agata V. Drug-Repurposing Strategy for Dimethyl Fumarate. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:974. [PMID: 37513886 PMCID: PMC10386358 DOI: 10.3390/ph16070974] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In the area of drug discovery, repurposing strategies represent an approach to discover new uses of approved drugs besides their original indications. We used this approach to investigate the effects of dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a drug approved for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and psoriasis treatment, on early injury associated with diabetic retinopathy (DR). We used an in vivo streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model. Diabetes was induced by a single injection of STZ in rats, and after 1 week, a group of animals was treated with a daily intraperitoneal injection of DMF or a vehicle. Three weeks after diabetes induction, the retinal expression levels of key enzymes involved in DR were evaluated. In particular, the biomarkers COX-2, iNOS, and HO-1 were assessed via Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis. Diabetic rats showed a significant retinal upregulation of COX-2 and iNOS compared to the retina of normal rats (non-diabetic), and an increase in HO-1 was also observed in the STZ group. This latter result was due to a mechanism of protection elicited by the pathological condition. DMF treatment significantly induced the retinal expression of HO-1 in STZ-induced diabetic animals with a reduction in iNOS and COX-2 retinal levels. Taken together, these results suggested that DMF might be useful to counteract the inflammatory process and the oxidative response in DR. In conclusion, we believe that DMF represents a potential candidate to treat diabetic retinopathy and warrants further in vivo and clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology (CERFO), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology (CERFO), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Chiara M Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elisabetta Pricoco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology (CERFO), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Romano GL, Gozzo L, Maurel OM, Di Martino S, Riolo V, Micale V, Drago F, Bucolo C. Fluoxetine Protects Retinal Ischemic Damage in Mice. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051370. [PMID: 37242611 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051370] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of the topical ocular administration of fluoxetine (FLX) in a mouse model of acute retinal damage. METHODS Ocular ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in C57BL/6J mice was used to elicit retinal damage. Mice were divided into three groups: control group, I/R group, and I/R group treated with topical FLX. A pattern electroretinogram (PERG) was used as a sensitive measure of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function. Finally, we analyzed the retinal mRNA expression of inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, Iba-1, IL-1β, and S100β) through Digital Droplet PCR. RESULTS PERG amplitude values were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the I/R-FLX group compared to the I/R group, whereas PERG latency values were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in I/R-FLX-treated mice compared to the I/R group. Retinal inflammatory markers increased significantly (p < 0.05) after I/R injury. FLX treatment was able to significantly (p < 0.05) attenuate the expression of inflammatory markers after I/R damage. CONCLUSIONS Topical treatment with FLX was effective in counteracting the damage of RGCs and preserving retinal function. Moreover, FLX treatment attenuates the production of pro-inflammatory molecules elicited by retinal I/R damage. Further studies need to be performed to support the use of FLX as neuroprotective agent in retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Lucia Gozzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Oriana Maria Maurel
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Serena Di Martino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Riolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
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9
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Caruso G, Fresta CG, Fidilio A, Lazzara F, Musso N, Cardaci V, Drago F, Caraci F, Bucolo C. Carnosine Counteracts the Molecular Alterations Aβ Oligomers-Induced in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083324. [PMID: 37110558 PMCID: PMC10146178 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083324] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been described as a progressive eye disease characterized by irreversible impairment of central vision, and unfortunately, an effective treatment is still not available. It is well-known that amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide is one of the major culprits in causing neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The extracellular accumulation of this peptide has also been found in drusen which lies under the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and represents one of the early signs of AMD pathology. Aβ aggregates, especially in the form of oligomers, are able to induce pro-oxidant (oxidative stress) and pro-inflammatory phenomena in RPE cells. ARPE-19 is a spontaneously arising human RPE cell line validated for drug discovery processes in AMD. In the present study, we employed ARPE-19 treated with Aβ oligomers, representing an in vitro model of AMD. We used a combination of methods, including ATPlite, quantitative real-time PCR, immunocytochemistry, as well as a fluorescent probe for reactive oxygen species to investigate the molecular alterations induced by Aβ oligomers. In particular, we found that Aβ exposure decreased the cell viability of ARPE-19 cells which was paralleled by increased inflammation (increased expression of pro-inflammatory mediators) and oxidative stress (increased expression of NADPH oxidase and ROS production) along with the destruction of ZO-1 tight junction protein. Once the damage was clarified, we investigated the therapeutic potential of carnosine, an endogenous dipeptide that is known to be reduced in AMD patients. Our findings demonstrate that carnosine was able to counteract most of the molecular alterations induced by the challenge of ARPE-19 with Aβ oligomers. These new findings obtained with ARPE-19 cells challenged with Aβ1-42 oligomers, along with the well-demonstrated multimodal mechanism of action of carnosine both in vitro and in vivo, able to prevent and/or counteract the dysfunctions elicited by Aβ oligomers, substantiate the neuroprotective potential of this dipeptide in the context of AMD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Unit of Neuropharmacology and Translational Neurosciences, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Claudia G Fresta
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Annamaria Fidilio
- Unit of Neuropharmacology and Translational Neurosciences, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Nicolò Musso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Bio-Nanotech Research and Innovation Tower (BRIT), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardaci
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milano, Italy
- Scuola Superiore di Catania, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Unit of Neuropharmacology and Translational Neurosciences, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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10
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Dionysopoulou S, Wikstrom P, Bucolo C, Romano GL, Micale V, Svensson R, Spyridakos D, Mastrodimou N, Georgakis S, Verginis P, Walum E, Thermos K. Topically administered NOX4 inhibitor, GLX7013114, is efficacious in treating the early pathological events of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes 2023; 72:638-652. [PMID: 36821829 DOI: 10.2337/db22-0515] [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] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
NADPH oxidases (NOX) are major players in generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), implicated in various neurodegenerative ocular pathologies. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of NOX4 inhibitor (GLX7013114), in two in vivo experimental streptozotocin (STZ) paradigms depicting the early events of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Diabetic-treated animals received GLX7013114 topically (20μl/eye, 10mg/ml, once daily), for 14d (Paradigm A/preventive) and 7d (Paradigm B/treated), 48hr and four wks post STZinjection, respectively. A number of methodologies were employed (immunohistochemistry, western blot, real time PCR, ELISA, PERG) to assess the diabetes induced early events of DR, namely oxidative stress, neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, and the effect of GLX7013114 on the diabetic insults. GLX7013114, administered as eye-drops (paradigms A,B) was beneficial in treating the oxidative nitrative stress, activation of caspase-3 and micro/macroglia and attenuation of neuronal markers. It also attenuated the diabetes induced increase in VEGF, Evans-Blue leakage and proinflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α protein, IL-1β/IL-6 mRNA). PERG amplitude values suggested that GLX7013114 protected retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function (Paradigm B). In conclusion, this study provides new findings regarding the pharmacological profile of the novel NOX4 inhibitor GLX7013114, as a promising therapeutic candidate, for the treatment of the early stage of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Claudio Bucolo
- University of Catania, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, Catania Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- University of Catania, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, Catania Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- University of Catania, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, Catania Italy
| | | | | | - Niki Mastrodimou
- University of Crete, School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology
| | - Spiros Georgakis
- University of Crete, School of Medicine, Laboratory of Rheumatology, Autoimmunity and Inflammation
| | - Panayotis Verginis
- University of Crete, School of Medicine, Laboratory of Immune Regulation and Tolerance,, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Kyriaki Thermos
- University of Crete, School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology
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11
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Di Bartolomeo M, Stark T, Di Martino S, Iannotti FA, Ruda-Kucerova J, Romano GL, Kuchar M, Laudani S, Palivec P, Piscitelli F, Wotjak CT, Bucolo C, Drago F, Di Marzo V, D’Addario C, Micale V. The Effects of Peripubertal THC Exposure in Neurodevelopmental Rat Models of Psychopathology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043907. [PMID: 36835313 PMCID: PMC9962163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescent exposure to cannabinoids as a postnatal environmental insult may increase the risk of psychosis in subjects exposed to perinatal insult, as suggested by the two-hit hypothesis of schizophrenia. Here, we hypothesized that peripubertal Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (aTHC) may affect the impact of prenatal methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) or perinatal THC (pTHC) exposure in adult rats. We found that MAM and pTHC-exposed rats, when compared to the control group (CNT), were characterized by adult phenotype relevant to schizophrenia, including social withdrawal and cognitive impairment, as revealed by social interaction test and novel object recognition test, respectively. At the molecular level, we observed an increase in cannabinoid CB1 receptor (Cnr1) and/or dopamine D2/D3 receptor (Drd2, Drd3) gene expression in the prefrontal cortex of adult MAM or pTHC-exposed rats, which we attributed to changes in DNA methylation at key regulatory gene regions. Interestingly, aTHC treatment significantly impaired social behavior, but not cognitive performance in CNT groups. In pTHC rats, aTHC did not exacerbate the altered phenotype nor dopaminergic signaling, while it reversed cognitive deficit in MAM rats by modulating Drd2 and Drd3 gene expression. In conclusion, our results suggest that the effects of peripubertal THC exposure may depend on individual differences related to dopaminergic neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Tibor Stark
- Scientific Core Unit Neuroimaging, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Serena Di Martino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Fabio Arturo Iannotti
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Jana Ruda-Kucerova
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Martin Kuchar
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 16628 Prague, Czech Republic
- Psychedelic Research Centre, National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 25067 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Samuele Laudani
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Petr Palivec
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 16628 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Carsten T. Wotjak
- Central Nervous System Diseases Research (CNSDR), Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, Faculty of Medicine, Agricultural and Food Sciences, CRIUCPQ, INAF and Centre NUTRISS, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Claudio D’Addario
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-095-4781199
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12
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Bucolo C, Maugeri G, Giunta S, D’Agata V, Drago F, Romano GL. Corneal wound healing and nerve regeneration by novel ophthalmic formulations based on cross-linked sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1109291. [PMID: 36817120 PMCID: PMC9932323 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1109291] [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: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: To evaluate the pharmacological profile of ocular formulations based on cross-linked sodium hyaluronate (CL-SH), taurine (Tau), vitamin B6 (Vit B6) and vitamin B12 (Vit B12) using in vitro and in vivo paradigms. Methods: Rabbit corneal epithelial cells were used to assess wound healing and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation by scratch assay and oxidative stress (0.3 mM H2O2; 30 min), respectively with or without ocular formulations exposure. In vivo studies were carried out on albino rabbits to evaluate corneal nerve regeneration and corneal wound healing with or without treatment with six different formulations. Animals were anesthetized, the corneal epithelium was removed, and formulations were topically administered (30 μL/eye; 3 times/day for 6 days). Slit-lamp observation was carried out at different time points. After 6 days the animals were killed, and corneas were collected to evaluate corneal re-innervation by immunohistochemistry of selective neuronal marker β-III tubulin. Results: Formulations containing the concentrations 0.16% or 0.32% of cross-linked sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 accelerated corneal wound healing. Cells exposed to H2O2 led to significant (p < 0.05) increase of reactive oxygen species concentration that was significantly (p < 0.05) counteract by formulations containing cross-linked sodium hyaluronate (0.32%) and taurine with or without vitamins. The extent of re-innervation, in terms of β-III tubulin staining, was 5-fold greater (p < 0.01) in the eye of rabbits treated with formulation containing 0.32% cross-linked sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamins (RenerviX®) compared with the control group (no treatment). Furthermore, re-innervation elicited by RenerviX® was significantly greater (p < 0.01) compared with the group treated with the formulation containing 0.32% cross-linked sodium hyaluronate and taurine without vitamins, and with the group treated with the formulation containing 0.5% linear sodium hyaluronate (SH), taurine, and vitamin B12, respectively. Discussion: In conclusion, among the formulations tested, the new ophthalmic gel RenerviX® was able to contrast oxidative stress, to accelerate corneal re-epithelization and to promote nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,*Correspondence: Claudio Bucolo,
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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13
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Lazzara F, Conti F, Ferrara M, Lippera M, Coppola M, Rossi S, Drago F, Bucolo C, Romano MR. Safety Profile of Lutein- Versus Triamcinolone Acetonide-Based Vitreous Staining. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:5. [PMID: 36598459 PMCID: PMC9832719 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.1.5] [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] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess the safety profile of a new lutein-based vitreous dye (LB-VD) formulation compared with various triamcinolone acetonide (TA) formulations with and without subsequent exposure to perfluorodecalin (PFD) in vitro. Methods Human adult retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) were treated with the following formulations: undiluted preserved TA (TA-BA), diluted preserved TA (D-TA-BA), preservative-free TA (TA-PF), and LB-VD. First, cell tolerability was evaluated with MTT, LDH, and ATPlite assays after 1, 5, and 30 minutes of exposure to each tested formulation. Then, cells were sequentially exposed to formulations and PFD. After 24 hours of exposure to PFD, cell tolerability was evaluated through MTT and ATPlite assays. Results Among the formulations tested, LB-VD showed the highest levels of cell viability, cell metabolism, and cell proliferation and induced the lowest release of LDH, whereas the TA-based formulations demonstrated a cytotoxic effect on ARPE-19 cells in vitro. After subsequent 24-hour exposure to PFD, a greater reduction of cell viability was noted for all the formulations; however, this reduction was not significant only for the combination LB-VD-PFD, which was the best tolerated condition. Conclusions LB-VD showed a better safety profile compared with all TA-based formulations, even when used in combination with PFD. Translational Relevance In surgical practice, LB-VD may be preferred to TA-based formulations for vitreous staining in the light of its more favorable safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Ferrara
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Myrta Lippera
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Michele Coppola
- Department of Ophthalmology, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mario R. Romano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy,Eye Center, Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Bergamo, Italy
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14
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Bucolo C, Maugeri G, Giunta S, Romano GL. Nerve regeneration and corneal wound healing by ophthalmic formulations based on sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamin
B6
and vitamin
B12. Acta Ophthalmol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2022.0331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Dept. Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Dept. Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Dept. Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Dept. Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences University of Catania Catania Italy
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15
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Chisari M, Barraco M, Bucolo C, Ciranna L, Sortino MA. Purinergic ionotropic P2X7 and metabotropic glutamate mGlu 5 receptors crosstalk influences pro-inflammatory conditions in microglia. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 938:175389. [PMID: 36435235 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175389] [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: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Microglia represent the resident immune system in the brain. They mediate neuroinflammatory processes and have been described as important regulators of homeostasis in the central nervous system (CNS). Among several players and mechanisms contributing to microglial function in inflammation, ATP and glutamate have been shown to be involved in microgliosis. In this study, we focused on receptor subtypes that respond to these neurotransmitters, purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor and metabotropic glutamate mGlu5 receptor. We found that both receptors are functionally expressed in a murine microglia cell line, BV2 cells, and we performed patch-clamp experiments to measure purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor ion flux in control condition and after metabotropic glutamate mGlu5 receptor activation. The selective purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor agonist, 2'(3')-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)adenosine-5'-triphosphate (BzATP, 100 μM), elicited a robust current that was prevented by the selective purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor antagonist A438079 (10 μM). When BV2 cells were acutely stimulated with the selective metabotropic glutamate mGlu5 agonist, (RS)-2-chloro-5-hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG, 200 μM), purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor current was increased. This positive modulation was prevented by the selective metabotropic glutamate mGlu5 receptor antagonist 3-((2-Methyl-4-thiazolyl)ethynyl)pyridine (MTEP, 1 μM). Moreover, nitric oxide synthesis elicited by purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor activation was enhanced by metabotropic glutamate mGlu5 receptor co-stimulation. Taken together, our results suggest an important crosstalk between ATP and glutamate in inflammation. Pro-inflammatory effects mediated by purinergic ionotropic P2X7 receptor might be exacerbated by simultaneous exposure of microglia to ATP and glutamate, suggesting new pharmacological targets to modulate neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Chisari
- Dept. of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Italy.
| | - Michele Barraco
- Dept. of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Italy; PhD Program in Neuroscience, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Dept. of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciranna
- Dept. of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Sortino
- Dept. of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Italy
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16
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Romeo A, Bonaccorso A, Carbone C, Lupo G, Daniela Anfuso C, Giurdanella G, Caggia C, Randazzo C, Russo N, Romano GL, Bucolo C, Rizzo M, Tosi G, Thomas Duskey J, Ruozi B, Pignatello R, Musumeci T. Melatonin loaded hybrid nanomedicine: DoE approach, optimization and in vitro study on diabetic retinopathy model. Int J Pharm 2022; 627:122195. [PMID: 36115466 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122195] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin (MEL) is a pleiotropic neurohormone of increasing interest as a neuroprotective agent in ocular diseases. Improving the mucoadhesiveness is a proposed strategy to increase the bioavailability of topical formulations. Herein, the design and optimization of MEL-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (mel-LPHNs) using Design of Experiment (DoE) was performed. LPHNs consisted of PLGA-PEG polymer nanoparticles coated with a cationic lipid-shell. The optimized nanomedicine showed suitable size for ophthalmic administration (189.4 nm; PDI 0.260) with a positive surface charge (+39.8 mV), high encapsulation efficiency (79.8 %), suitable pH and osmolarity values, good mucoadhesive properties and a controlled release profile. Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy confirmed the encapsulation of melatonin in the systems and the interaction between lipids and polymer matrix. Biological evaluation in an in vitro model of diabetic retinopathy demonstrated enhanced neuroprotective and antioxidant activities of mel-LPHNs, compared to melatonin aqueous solution at the same concentration (0.1 and 1 μM). A modified Draize test was performed to assess the ocular tolerability of the formulation showing no signs of irritation. To the best our knowledge, this study reported for the first time the development of mel-LPHNs, a novel and safe hybrid platform suitable for the topical management of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Romeo
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Angela Bonaccorso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy; Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Claudia Carbone
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy; Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Lupo
- Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Carmelina Daniela Anfuso
- Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Giurdanella
- Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Caggia
- NANO-i, Research Centre for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 100, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Randazzo
- NANO-i, Research Centre for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy; Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 100, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Nunziatina Russo
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 100, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Milena Rizzo
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Tosi
- Department of Life Sciences, Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, Modena 41125, Italy.
| | - Jason Thomas Duskey
- Department of Life Sciences, Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, Modena 41125, Italy.
| | - Barbara Ruozi
- Department of Life Sciences, Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, Modena 41125, Italy.
| | - Rosario Pignatello
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy; NANO-i, Research Centre for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Teresa Musumeci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy; NANO-i, Research Centre for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy.
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17
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D'Agata V, D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Bucolo C, Rossi S, Giunta S. Carnosol attenuates high glucose damage in human retinal endothelial cells through regulation of ERK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. J Asian Nat Prod Res 2022:1-13. [PMID: 36300534 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2022.2137022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Carnosol is a natural compound with antioxidant properties. Based on this evidence, in the present study we investigated whether this compound can protect retinal vascular endothelium from hyperglycemic insult responsible for diabetic retinopathy development. We performed in vitro study on human retinal endothelial cells (HREC) cultured both in normal and high glucose conditions to assess the effects of carnosol on cell viability, Nrf2 expression, HO-1 activity, and ERK1/2 expression. HREC exposed to high glucose insult were treated with carnosol. Data indicated that carnosol treatment is able to induce HO-1 expression via Nrf2 activation and counteracts the damage elicited by high glucose. Further, carnosol activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling axis involves ERK1/2 pathway. These data confirm the therapeutic value of carnosol by suggesting its use to treat diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velia D'Agata
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology (CERFO), University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli 80138, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
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18
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Lazzara F, Longo AM, Giurdanella G, Lupo G, Platania CBM, Rossi S, Drago F, Anfuso CD, Bucolo C. Vitamin D3 preserves blood retinal barrier integrity in an in vitro model of diabetic retinopathy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:971164. [PMID: 36091806 PMCID: PMC9458952 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.971164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The impairment of the blood retinal barrier (BRB) represents one of the main features of diabetic retinopathy, a secondary microvascular complication of diabetes. Hyperglycemia is a triggering factor of vascular cells damage in diabetic retinopathy. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of vitamin D3 on BRB protection, and to investigate its regulatory role on inflammatory pathways. We challenged human retinal endothelial cells with high glucose (HG) levels. We found that vitamin D3 attenuates cell damage elicited by HG, maintaining cell viability and reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and ICAM-1. Furthermore, we showed that vitamin D3 preserved the BRB integrity as demonstrated by trans-endothelial electrical resistance, permeability assay, and cell junction morphology and quantification (ZO-1 and VE-cadherin). In conclusion this in vitro study provided new insights on the retinal protective role of vitamin D3, particularly as regard as the early phase of diabetic retinopathy, characterized by BRB breakdown and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Longo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Giurdanella
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna “Kore”, Enna, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gabriella Lupo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmelina Daniela Anfuso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Claudio Bucolo,
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19
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Bucolo C, Sanderson J, Rossi S. Editorial: Chronic Inflammation and Neurodegeneration in Retinal Disease, Volume II. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:915960. [PMID: 35712725 PMCID: PMC9197437 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.915960] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Julie Sanderson
- University of East Anglia, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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20
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Bonfiglio V, Rejdak R, Nowomiejska K, Zweifel SA, Justus Wiest MR, Romano GL, Bucolo C, Gozzo L, Castellino N, Patane C, Pizzo C, Reibaldi M, Russo A, Longo A, Fallico M, Macchi I, Vadalà M, Avitabile T, Costagliola C, Jonak K, Toro MD. Efficacy and Safety of Subthreshold Micropulse Yellow Laser for Persistent Diabetic Macular Edema After Vitrectomy: A Pilot Study. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:832448. [PMID: 35462889 PMCID: PMC9019565 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.832448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To examine the effect of subthreshold micropulse yellow laser (SMYL) on best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) changes in eyes with persistent diabetic macular edema (DME) after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for tractional DME (TDME).Patients and Methods: In a comparative study, 95 eyes of 95 consecutive patients with persistent DME were prospectively enrolled. The SMYL group (54 eyes) was treated with SMYL 6 months after PPV, while the control group (41 eyes) was followed up without treatment. BCVA and CMT by OCT were analyzed at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Additionally, parameters such as the vessel density (VD) in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP), respectively, and the area of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) were also evaluated on OCT-A.Results: There were no significant differences between both groups in demographic data. In the SMYL group, mean BCVA was significantly increased [F(2,106) = 17.25; p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.246] from 51.54 ± 13.81 ETDRS letters at baseline to 57.81 ± 12.82 ETDRS letters at 3 months (p < 0.001) and 57.83 ± 13.95 EDTRS letters at 6 months (p < 0.001), respectively. In comparison to the control group, BCVA values were statistically significantly higher in the SMYL group at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Mean CMT significantly decreased [F(2,106) = 30.98; p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.368] from the baseline value 410.59 ± 129.91 μm to 323.50 ± 89.66 μm at 3 months (p < 0.001) and to 283.39 ± 73.45 μm at 6 months (p < 0.001). CMT values were significantly lower in the SMYL group (p < 0.001), especially at 6 months follow-up time (p < 0.001) compared with the control group. Parafoveal VD in the SCP and DCP was significantly higher in the SMYL group in comparison to the control group, respectively, at 3-month (SCP p < 0.001; DCP p < 0.001) and 6-month follow-up (SCP p < 0.001; DCP p < 0.001). FAZ area was also significantly smaller in the SMYL group at 6-month follow-up (p = 0.001). There were no adverse SMYL treatment effects.Conclusion: SMYL therapy may be a safe and effective treatment option in eyes with persistent macular edema following PPV for TDME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Bonfiglio
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, Ophthalmology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Nowomiejska
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | | | | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Claudio Bucolo, ; Mario Damiano Toro,
| | - Lucia Gozzo
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Clara Patane
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Corrado Pizzo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Russo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Longo
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Matteo Fallico
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Iacopo Macchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Vadalà
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, Ophthalmology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Teresio Avitabile
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ciro Costagliola
- Eye Clinic Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Kamil Jonak
- Department of Clinical Neuropsychiatry, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Department of Computer Science, Lublin University of Technology, Lublin, Poland
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Eye Clinic, Public Health Department, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Claudio Bucolo, ; Mario Damiano Toro,
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21
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Bucolo C, Toro MD, Eandi CM. Editorial: Ocular Pharmacology: Recent Breakthroughs and Unmet Needs. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:848332. [PMID: 35237174 PMCID: PMC8884144 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.848332] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland.,Eye Clinic, Public Health Department, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara M Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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22
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Bianca Maria Platania C, Drago F, Bucolo C. The P2X7 receptor as a new pharmacological target for retinal diseases. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 198:114942. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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23
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Conti F, Lazzara F, Romano GL, Platania CBM, Drago F, Bucolo C. Caffeine Protects Against Retinal Inflammation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:824885. [PMID: 35069225 PMCID: PMC8773454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.824885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Caffeine, one of the most consumed central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, is an antagonist of A1 and A2A adenosine receptors. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effects of this methylxanthine in the retinal tissue. We tested caffeine by using in vitro and in vivo paradigms of retinal inflammation. Human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with or without caffeine. This latter was able to reduce the inflammatory response in ARPE-19 cells exposed to LPS, attenuating the release of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α and the nuclear translocation of p-NFκB. Additionally, caffeine treatment restored the integrity of the ARPE-19 monolayer assessed by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the sodium fluorescein permeability test. Finally, the ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury model was used in C57BL/6J mice to induce retinal inflammation and investigate the effects of caffeine treatment. Mouse eyes were treated topically with caffeine, and a pattern electroretinogram (PERG) was used to assess the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function; furthermore, we evaluated the levels of IL-6 and BDNF in the retina. Retinal BDNF dropped significantly (p < 0.05) in the I/R group compared to the control group (normal mice); on the contrary, caffeine treatment maintained physiological levels of BDNF in the retina of I/R eyes. Caffeine was also able to reduce IL-6 mRNA levels in the retina of I/R eyes. In conclusion, these findings suggest that caffeine is a good candidate to counteract inflammation in retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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24
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Montesel A, Bucolo C, Sallo FB, Eandi CM. Short-Term Efficacy and Safety Outcomes of Brolucizumab in the Real-Life Clinical Practice. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:720345. [PMID: 34803674 PMCID: PMC8600267 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.720345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [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: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
To report the early efficacy and safety outcomes of treatment with intravitreal injections of brolucizumab (IVT-B) in patients presenting neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in a tertiary clinical setting. A retrospective case series of patients that received IVT-B with a minimum of two injections performed and at least 4 weeks of follow-up after last injection. Nineteen eyes of 19 patients were included. The number of IVT-B performed for the whole cohort was 58 injections; the mean number of IVT-B per patient was 3.0 ± 1.0 (range 2–6); the mean follow-up time was 14.4 ± 9.0 weeks. Mean baseline best-corrected visual acuity was 0.4 ± 0.4 logMAR and at the last follow-up was 0.4 ± 0.6 logMAR (p = 0.778). All eyes showed a reduction in retinal thickness, with the central macular thickness being 470 ± 151 μm at baseline and 360 ± 144 μm at the last follow-up (p = 0.001). Intra-retinal fluid was present at baseline in 12 eyes (63%) and in three eyes (16%) at the last follow-up (p = 0.065). Sub-retinal fluid was present at baseline in 17 eyes (89%) and at the last follow-up in three eyes (16%, p = 0.011). Pigment epithelium detachment was apparent in the 16 eyes (84%) at baseline and was still present in 14 eyes (73%, p = 0.811). One adverse event of intraocular inflammation was reported. In conclusion, our short-term experience showed that brolucizumab was highly effective in restoring the anatomy and in stabilizing the visual acuity of eyes with nAMD. Its safety profile should be evaluated carefully and needs further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Montesel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ferenc B Sallo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chiara M Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
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25
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Lazzara F, Conti F, Platania CBM, Eandi CM, Drago F, Bucolo C. Effects of Vitamin D 3 and Meso-Zeaxanthin on Human Retinal Pigmented Epithelial Cells in Three Integrated in vitro Paradigms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:778165. [PMID: 34803719 PMCID: PMC8602342 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.778165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative retinal disease and one of major causes of irreversible vision loss. AMD has been linked to several pathological factors, such as oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, Aβ (1-42) oligomers have been found in drusen, the extracellular deposits that accumulate beneath the retinal pigmented epithelium in AMD patients. Hereby, we investigated the hypothesis that treatment with 1,25(OH) 2D3 (vitamin D3) and meso-zeaxathin, physiologically present in the eye, would counteract the toxic effects of three different insults on immortalized human retinal pigmented epithelial cells (ARPE-19). Specifically, ARPE-19 cells have been challenged with Aβ (1-42) oligomers, H2O2, LPS, and TNF-α, respectively. In the present study, we demonstrated that the combination of 1,25(OH)2D3 and meso-zeaxanthin significantly counteracted the cell damage induced by the three insults, at least in these in vitro integrated paradigms of AMD. These results suggest that combination of 1,25(OH)2D3 and meso-zeaxathin could be a useful approach to contrast pathological features of AMD, such as retinal inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara M Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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26
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Burgaletto C, Platania CBM, Di Benedetto G, Munafò A, Giurdanella G, Federico C, Caltabiano R, Saccone S, Conti F, Bernardini R, Bucolo C, Cantarella G. Targeting the miRNA-155/TNFSF10 network restrains inflammatory response in the retina in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:905. [PMID: 34611142 PMCID: PMC8492692 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04165-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Age-related disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) share common features such as amyloid-β (Aβ) protein accumulation. Retinal deposition of Aβ aggregates in AMD patients has suggested a potential link between AMD and AD. In the present study, we analyzed the expression pattern of a focused set of miRNAs, previously found to be involved in both AD and AMD, in the retina of a triple transgenic mouse model of AD (3xTg-AD) at different time-points. Several miRNAs were differentially expressed in the retina of 3xTg-AD mice, compared to the retina of age-matched wild-type (WT) mice. In particular, bioinformatic analysis revealed that miR-155 had a central role in miRNA-gene network stability, regulating several pathways, including apoptotic and inflammatory signaling pathways modulated by TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TNFSF10). We showed that chronic treatment of 3xTg-AD mice with an anti-TNFSF10 monoclonal antibody was able to inhibit the retinal expression of miR-155, which inversely correlated with the expression of its molecular target SOCS-1. Moreover, the fine-tuned mechanism related to TNFSF10 immunoneutralization was tightly linked to modulation of TNFSF10 itself and its death receptor TNFRSF10B, along with cytokine production by microglia, reactive gliosis, and specific AD-related neuropathological hallmarks (i.e., Aβ deposition and Tau phosphorylation) in the retina of 3xTg-AD mice. In conclusion, immunoneutralization of TNFSF10 significantly preserved the retinal tissue in 3xTg-AD mice, suggesting its potential therapeutic application in retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Burgaletto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Benedetto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Munafò
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Giurdanella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department Gian Filippo Ingrassia, Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Renato Bernardini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy. .,Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cantarella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania School of Medicine, Catania, Italy
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Gesualdo C, Balta C, Platania CBM, Trotta MC, Herman H, Gharbia S, Rosu M, Petrillo F, Giunta S, Della Corte A, Grieco P, Bellavita R, Simonelli F, D'Amico M, Hermenean A, Rossi S, Bucolo C. Fingolimod and Diabetic Retinopathy: A Drug Repurposing Study. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:718902. [PMID: 34603029 PMCID: PMC8484636 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.718902] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the interactions between fingolimod, a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor (S1PR) agonist, and melanocortin receptors 1 and 5 (MCR1, MCR5). In particular, we investigated the effects of fingolimod, a drug approved to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, on retinal angiogenesis in a mouse model of diabetic retinopathy (DR). We showed, by a molecular modeling approach, that fingolimod can bind with good-predicted affinity to MC1R and MC5R. Thereafter, we investigated the fingolimod actions on retinal MC1Rs/MC5Rs in C57BL/6J mice. Diabetes was induced in C57BL/6J mice through streptozotocin injection. Diabetic and control C57BL/6J mice received fingolimod, by oral route, for 12 weeks and a monthly intravitreally injection of MC1R antagonist (AGRP), MC5R antagonist (PG20N), and the selective S1PR1 antagonist (Ex 26). Diabetic animals treated with fingolimod showed a decrease of retinal vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1 and 2 (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2), compared to diabetic control group. Fingolimod co-treatment with MC1R and MC5R selective antagonists significantly (p < 0.05) increased retinal VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFA levels compared to mice treated with fingolimod alone. Diabetic animals treated with fingolimod plus Ex 26 (S1PR1 selective blocker) had VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFA levels between diabetic mice group and the group of diabetic mice treated with fingolimod alone. This vascular protective effect of fingolimod, through activation of MC1R and MC5R, was evidenced also by fluorescein angiography in mice. Finally, molecular dynamic simulations showed a strong similarity between fingolimod and the MC1R agonist BMS-470539. In conclusion, the anti-angiogenic activity exerted by fingolimod in DR seems to be mediated not only through S1P1R, but also by melanocortin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Cornel Balta
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Hildegard Herman
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Sami Gharbia
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Marcel Rosu
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | | | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alberto Della Corte
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Pharmacy Department, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Bellavita
- Pharmacy Department, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Godis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania.,Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Toro MD, Gozzo L, Tracia L, Cicciù M, Drago F, Bucolo C, Avitabile T, Rejdak R, Nowomiejska K, Zweifel S, Yousef YA, Nazzal R, Romano GL. New Therapeutic Perspectives in the Treatment of Uveal Melanoma: A Systematic Review. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101311. [PMID: 34680428 PMCID: PMC8533164 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare disease, but the most common primary intraocular cancer, mostly localized in the choroid. Currently, the first-line treatment options for UM are radiation therapy, resection, and enucleation. However, although these treatments could potentially be curative, half of all patients will develop metastatic disease, whose prognosis is still poor. Indeed, effective therapeutic options for patients with advanced or metastatic disease are still lacking. Recently, the development of new treatment modalities with a lower incidence of adverse events, a better disease control rate, and new therapeutic approaches, have merged as new potential and promising therapeutic strategies. Additionally, several clinical trials are ongoing to find new therapeutic options, mainly for those with metastatic disease. Many interventions are still in the preliminary phases of clinical development, being investigated in phase I trial or phase I/II. The success of these trials could be crucial for changing the prognosis of patients with advanced/metastatic UM. In this systematic review, we analyzed all emerging and available literature on the new perspectives in the treatment of UM and patient outcomes; furthermore, their current limitations and more common adverse events are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Damiano Toro
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.D.T.); (S.Z.)
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20079 Lublin, Poland; (R.R.); (K.N.)
| | - Lucia Gozzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.D.); (C.B.); (G.L.R.)
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-3781757
| | - Luciano Tracia
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, American Hospital Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Marco Cicciù
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, AOU ‘G. Martino’, 98124 Messina, Italy;
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.D.); (C.B.); (G.L.R.)
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Centre for Research and Consultancy in HTA and Drug Regulatory Affairs (CERD), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.D.); (C.B.); (G.L.R.)
- Center of Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Teresio Avitabile
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20079 Lublin, Poland; (R.R.); (K.N.)
| | - Katarzyna Nowomiejska
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20079 Lublin, Poland; (R.R.); (K.N.)
| | - Sandrine Zweifel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.D.T.); (S.Z.)
| | - Yacoub A. Yousef
- Department of Surgery/Ophthalmology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman 11941, Jordan;
| | | | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (F.D.); (C.B.); (G.L.R.)
- Center of Research in Ocular Pharmacology—CERFO, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Lazzara F, Amato R, Platania CBM, Conti F, Chou TH, Porciatti V, Drago F, Bucolo C. 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 protects retinal ganglion cells in glaucomatous mice. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:206. [PMID: 34530842 PMCID: PMC8444391 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02263-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by loss of function and death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), leading to irreversible vision loss. Neuroinflammation is recognized as one of the causes of glaucoma, and currently no treatment is addressing this mechanism. We aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 (1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, calcitriol), in a genetic model of age-related glaucomatous neurodegeneration (DBA/2J mice). METHODS DBA/2J mice were randomized to 1,25(OH)2D3 or vehicle treatment groups. Pattern electroretinogram, flash electroretinogram, and intraocular pressure were recorded weekly. Immunostaining for RBPMS, Iba-1, and GFAP was carried out on retinal flat mounts to assess retinal ganglion cell density and quantify microglial and astrocyte activation, respectively. Molecular biology analyses were carried out to evaluate retinal expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, pNFκB-p65, and neuroprotective factors. Investigators that analysed the data were blind to experimental groups, which were unveiled after graph design and statistical analysis, that were carried out with GraphPad Prism. Several statistical tests and approaches were used: the generalized estimated equations (GEE) analysis, t-test, and one-way ANOVA. RESULTS DBA/2J mice treated with 1,25(OH)2D3 for 5 weeks showed improved PERG and FERG amplitudes and reduced RGCs death, compared to vehicle-treated age-matched controls. 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment decreased microglial and astrocyte activation, as well as expression of inflammatory cytokines and pNF-κB-p65 (p < 0.05). Moreover, 1,25(OH)2D3-treated DBA/2J mice displayed increased mRNA levels of neuroprotective factors (p < 0.05), such as BDNF. CONCLUSIONS 1,25(OH)2D3 protected RGCs preserving retinal function, reducing inflammatory cytokines, and increasing expression of neuroprotective factors. Therefore, 1,25(OH)2D3 could attenuate the retinal damage in glaucomatous patients and warrants further clinical evaluation for the treatment of optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rosario Amato
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology - CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology - CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Bucolo C, Barbieri A, Viganò I, Marchesi N, Bandello F, Drago F, Govoni S, Zerbini G, Pascale A. Short-and Long-Term Expression of Vegf: A Temporal Regulation of a Key Factor in Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:707909. [PMID: 34489701 PMCID: PMC8418071 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.707909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) at different phases of diabetic retinopathy (DR), we assessed the retinal protein expression of VEGF-A164 (corresponding to the VEGF165 isoform present in humans, which is the predominant member implicated in vascular hyperpermeability and proliferation), HIF-1α and PKCβ/HuR pathway in Ins2Akita (diabetic) mice at different ages. We used C57BL6J mice (WT) at different ages as control. Retina status, in terms of tissue morphology and neovascularization, was monitored in vivo at different time points by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography (FA), respectively. The results showed that VEGF-A164 protein expression increased along time to become significantly elevated (p < 0.05) at 9 and 46 weeks of age compared to WT mice. The HIF-1α protein level was significantly (p < 0.05) increased at 9 weeks of age, while PKCβII and HuR protein levels were increased at 46 weeks of age compared to WT mice. The thickness of retinal nerve fiber layer as measured by OCT was decreased in Ins2Akita mice at 9 and 46 weeks of age, while no difference in the retinal vasculature were observed by FA. The present findings show that the retina of the diabetic Ins2Akita mice, as expected for mice, does not develop proliferative retinopathy even after 46 weeks. However, diabetic Ins2Akita mice recapitulate the same evolution of patients with DR in terms of both retinal neurodegeneration and pro-angiogenic shift, this latter indicated by the progressive protein expression of the pro-angiogenic isoform VEGF-A164, which can be sustained by the PKCβII/HuR pathway acting at post-transcriptional level. In agreement with this last concept, this rise in VEGF-A164 protein is not paralleled by an increment of the corresponding transcript. Nevertheless, the observed increase in HIF-1α at 9 weeks indicates that this transcription factor may favor, in the early phase of the disease, the transcription of other isoforms, possibly neuroprotective, in the attempt to counteract the neurodegenerative effects of VEGF-A164. The time-dependent VEGF-A164 expression in the retina of diabetic Ins2Akita mice suggests that pharmacological intervention in DR might be chosen, among other reasons, on the basis of the specific stages of the pathology in order to pursue the best clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Annalisa Barbieri
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Viganò
- Complications of Diabetes Unit, Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Marchesi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Zerbini
- Complications of Diabetes Unit, Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Pascale
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Conti F, Romano GL, Eandi CM, Toro MD, Rejdak R, Di Benedetto G, Lazzara F, Bernardini R, Drago F, Cantarella G, Bucolo C. Brimonidine is Neuroprotective in Animal Paradigm of Retinal Ganglion Cell Damage. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:705405. [PMID: 34366858 PMCID: PMC8333612 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.705405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [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: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the neuroprotective effect of brimonidine after retinal ischemia damage on mouse eye. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) death, irreversible peripheral and central visual field loss, and high intraocular pressure. Ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury model was used in C57BL/6J mice to mimic conditions of glaucomatous neurodegeneration. Mouse eyes were treated topically with brimonidine and pattern electroretinogram were used to assess the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) function. A wide range of inflammatory markers, as well as anti-inflammatory and neurotrophic molecules, were investigated to figure out the potential protective effects of brimonidine in mouse retina. In particular, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and its death receptor DR-5, TNF-α, GFAP, Iba-1, NOS, IL-1β and IL-10 were assessed in mouse retina that underwent to I/R insult with or without brimonidine treatment. Brimonidine provided remarkable RGCs protection in our paradigm. PERG amplitude values were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in brimonidine-treated eyes in comparison to I/R retinas. Retinal BDNF mRNA levels in the I/R group dropped significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the control group (normal mice); brimonidine treatment counteracted the downregulation of retinal BDNF mRNA in I/R eyes. Retinal inflammatory markers increased significantly (p < 0.05) in the I/R group and brimonidine treatment was able to revert that. The anti-inflammatory IL-10 decreased significantly (p < 0.05) after retinal I/R insult and increased significantly (p < 0.05) in the group treated with brimonidine. In conclusion, brimonidine was effective in preventing loss of function of RGCs and in regulating inflammatory biomarkers elicited by retinal I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Giulia Di Benedetto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Renato Bernardini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cantarella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Giurdanella G, Longo A, Salerno L, Romeo G, Intagliata S, Lupo G, Distefano A, Platania CBM, Bucolo C, Li Volti G, Anfuso CD, Pittalà V. Glucose-impaired Corneal Re-epithelialization Is Promoted by a Novel Derivate of Dimethyl Fumarate. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10060831. [PMID: 34067436 PMCID: PMC8224583 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucose induces corneal epithelial dysfunctions characterized by delayed wound repair. Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mediates cell protection mechanisms even through the Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) up-regulation. Here, we synthesized new HO-1 inducers by modifying dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and used docking studies to select VP13/126 as a promising compound with the best binding energy to Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1), which is the the regulator of Nrf2 nuclear translocation. We verified if VP13/126 protects SIRC cells from hyperglycemia compared to DMF. SIRC were cultured in normal (5 mM) or high glucose (25 mM, HG) in presence of DMF (1–25 μM) or VP13/126 (0.1–5 μM) with or without ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 (15 μM). VP13/126 was more effective than DMF in the prevention of HG-induced reduction of cell viability and proliferation. Reduction of wound closure induced by HG was similarly counteracted by 1 μM VP13/126 and 10 μM DMF. VP13/126 strongly increased phospho/total ERK1/2 and restored HO-1 protein in HG-treated SIRC; these effects are completely counteracted by PD98059. Moreover, high-content screening analysis showed a higher rate of Nrf2 nuclear translocation induced by VP13/126 than DMF in HG-stimulated SIRC. These data indicate that VP13/126 exerts remarkable pro-survival properties in HG-stimulated SIRC, promoting the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Giurdanella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (A.L.); (G.L.); (A.D.); (G.L.V.)
| | - Anna Longo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (A.L.); (G.L.); (A.D.); (G.L.V.)
| | - Loredana Salerno
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.R.); (S.I.)
| | - Giuseppe Romeo
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.R.); (S.I.)
| | - Sebastiano Intagliata
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.R.); (S.I.)
| | - Gabriella Lupo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (A.L.); (G.L.); (A.D.); (G.L.V.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Alfio Distefano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (A.L.); (G.L.); (A.D.); (G.L.V.)
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (A.L.); (G.L.); (A.D.); (G.L.V.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Carmelina Daniela Anfuso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (A.L.); (G.L.); (A.D.); (G.L.V.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology–CERFO, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
- Correspondence: (C.D.A.); (V.P.); Tel.: +39-095-478-1170 (C.D.A.); +39-095-738-4269 (V.P.)
| | - Valeria Pittalà
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (L.S.); (G.R.); (S.I.)
- Correspondence: (C.D.A.); (V.P.); Tel.: +39-095-478-1170 (C.D.A.); +39-095-738-4269 (V.P.)
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Maugeri G, Bucolo C, Drago F, Rossi S, Di Rosa M, Imbesi R, D'Agata V, Giunta S. Attenuation of High Glucose-Induced Damage in RPE Cells through p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway Inhibition. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:684680. [PMID: 34025440 PMCID: PMC8138305 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.684680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the high glucose damage on human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, the role of p38 MAPK signaling pathway and how dimethyl fumarate can regulate that. We carried out in vitro studies on ARPE-19 cells exposed to physiological and high glucose (HG) conditions, to evaluate the effects of DMF on cell viability, apoptosis, and expression of inflammatory and angiogenic biomarkers such as COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, and VEGF. Our data have demonstrated that DMF treatment attenuated HG-induced apoptosis, as confirmed by reduction of BAX/Bcl-2 ratio. Furthermore, in RPE cells exposed to HG we observed a significant increase of iNOS, COX-2, and IL-1β expression, that was reverted by DMF treatment. Moreover, DMF reduced the VEGF levels elicited by HG, inhibiting p38 MAPK signaling pathway. The present study demonstrated that DMF provides a remarkable protection against high glucose-induced damage in RPE cells through p38 MAPK inhibition and the subsequent down-regulation of VEGF levels, suggesting that DMF is a small molecule that represents a good candidate for diabetic retinopathy treatment and warrants further in vivo and clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology (CERFO), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology (CERFO), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosa Imbesi
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Dolar-Szczasny J, Bucolo C, Zweifel S, Carnevali A, Rejdak R, Załuska W, Czarnek-Chudzik A, Toro MD. Evaluation of Aqueous Flare Intensity in Eyes Undergoing Intravitreal Bevacizumab Therapy to Treat Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:656774. [PMID: 33995079 PMCID: PMC8121376 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.656774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the effect of repeated intravitreal bevacizumab injections on blood-aqueous barrier permeability in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Patients and Methods: Forty-eight consecutive patients with neovascular AMD received 3 intravitreal bevacizumab injections (1 mg) every 30–40 days. Subjects were followed for a period of 4 months and were examined at baseline, 1 day and 1 month after each injection. A control group comprised of 19 neovascular AMD patients waiting to begin anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. Anterior chamber (AC) inflammation was evaluated with biomicroscopy and laser flare photometry. Results: None of the subjects treated with bevacizumab had detectable ocular inflammation during follow-up. An analysis for variance (ANOVA) of the mixed-effects model has shown neither an effect between treatment and control group (p = 0.921), nor over the time course of the follow-up (p = 0.773). Before treatment, median AC inflammation was 6.7 photons/ms (range: 3.5–18.2 photons/ms). One month after the first, second, and third injections, median laser flare was 6.4, 6.8, and 6.6 photons/ms, respectively, none of which were significantly different from baseline (all p > 0.05). Blood-aqueous barrier permeability did not change between injections and was not different from the control group. Conclusion: Inflammation induced by intravitreal bevacizumab was not detected by examination or flare photometry. This suggests that monthly bevacizumab dosing seems to be safe. The absence of AC inflammation could also reflect the known anti-inflammatory properties of anti-VEGF agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandrine Zweifel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Carnevali
- Department of Ophthalmology, University "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Załuska
- Department of Nephrology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medical Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Warsaw, Poland
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35
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Caruso G, Benatti C, Musso N, Fresta CG, Fidilio A, Spampinato G, Brunello N, Bucolo C, Drago F, Lunte SM, Peterson BR, Tascedda F, Caraci F. Carnosine Protects Macrophages against the Toxicity of Aβ1-42 Oligomers by Decreasing Oxidative Stress. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9050477. [PMID: 33926064 PMCID: PMC8146816 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9050477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is a naturally occurring endogenous peptide widely distributed in excitable tissues such as the brain. This dipeptide has well-known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aggregation activities, and it may be useful for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this disease, peripheral infiltrating macrophages play a substantial role in the clearance of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides from the brain. Correspondingly, in patients suffering from AD, defects in the capacity of peripheral macrophages to engulf Aβ have been reported. The effects of carnosine on macrophages and oxidative stress associated with AD are consequently of substantial interest for drug discovery in this field. In the present work, a model of stress induced by Aβ1-42 oligomers was investigated using a combination of methods including trypan blue exclusion, microchip electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescence, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and high-throughput quantitative real-time PCR. These assays were used to assess the ability of carnosine to protect macrophage cells, modulate oxidative stress, and profile the expression of genes related to inflammation and pro- and antioxidant systems. We found that pre-treatment of RAW 264.7 macrophages with carnosine counteracted cell death and apoptosis induced by Aβ1-42 oligomers by decreasing oxidative stress as measured by levels of intracellular nitric oxide (NO)/reactive oxygen species (ROS) and production of peroxynitrite. This protective activity of carnosine was not mediated by modulation of the canonical inflammatory pathway but instead can be explained by the well-known antioxidant and free-radical scavenging activities of carnosine, enhanced macrophage phagocytic activity, and the rescue of fractalkine receptor CX3CR1. These new findings obtained with macrophages challenged with Aβ1-42 oligomers, along with the well-known multimodal mechanism of action of carnosine in vitro and in vivo, substantiate the therapeutic potential of this dipeptide in the context of AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.F.); (F.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-7384265
| | - Cristina Benatti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.B.); (N.B.); (F.T.)
- Centre of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Nicolò Musso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (C.G.F.); (G.S.); (C.B.); (F.D.)
| | - Claudia G. Fresta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (C.G.F.); (G.S.); (C.B.); (F.D.)
| | - Annamaria Fidilio
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.F.); (F.C.)
| | - Giorgia Spampinato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (C.G.F.); (G.S.); (C.B.); (F.D.)
| | - Nicoletta Brunello
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.B.); (N.B.); (F.T.)
- Centre of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (C.G.F.); (G.S.); (C.B.); (F.D.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (C.G.F.); (G.S.); (C.B.); (F.D.)
| | - Susan M. Lunte
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Blake R. Peterson
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Fabio Tascedda
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.B.); (N.B.); (F.T.)
- Centre of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.F.); (F.C.)
- Department of Laboratories, Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
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Fallico M, Maugeri A, Romano GL, Bucolo C, Longo A, Bonfiglio V, Russo A, Avitabile T, Barchitta M, Agodi A, Pignatelli F, Marolo P, Ventre L, Parisi G, Reibaldi M. Epiretinal Membrane Vitrectomy With and Without Intraoperative Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:635101. [PMID: 33935724 PMCID: PMC8082723 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.635101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of vitrectomy combined with intravitreal dexamethasone implant vs. vitrectomy without the implant in patients with epiretinal membrane (ERM) by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Studies that compared ERM vitrectomy with and without intraoperative dexamethasone implant with a follow-up ≥3 months were included. The primary outcome was mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) change between eyes undergoing ERM vitrectomy combined with dexamethasone implant (DEX group) and eyes undergoing ERM vitrectomy alone (control group) at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included mean BCVA change at 6 months and mean optical coherence tomography central macular thickness (CMT) change at both 3-months and 6-months follow-up. Mean differences (MDs) with their 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated. Meta-analyses were based either on random effect model or fixed effect model according to heterogeneity. Results: Four studies were included. At 3 months, ERM vitrectomy combined with dexamethasone implant yielded a greater visual gain compared to vitrectomy alone (MD = 9.7; 95%CI = 2.6–16.8; p = 0.01). However, significant heterogeneity was found. A sensitivity analysis excluding the only retrospective non-randomized study confirmed a greater visual gain in the DEX group (MD = 7.1; 95%CI = 2.7–11.6; p < 0.01), with no heterogeneity. At 6 months, a non-significant but borderline difference in visual gain was shown between in the two groups (MD = 5.1; 95%CI = −0.3–10.5; p = 0.06), with no heterogeneity. Three-month analysis of CMT revealed a greater reduction in the DEX group (MD = −80.2; 95%CI =−149.1–11.2; p = 0.02), but with significant heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis excluding the only retrospective non-randomized study allowed to reduce heterogeneity, but no difference in 3-months CMT change was found between the two groups (MD = −50.0; 95%CI = −106.2–6.2; p = 0.08). At 6 months, no difference in CMT change was shown between the two groups (MD = −48.5; 95%CI = −120.5–23.5; p = 0.19), with significant heterogeneity. Conclusions: Intraoperative dexamethasone implant in eyes undergoing vitrectomy for ERM provided a better visual outcome at 3 months compared to ERM vitrectomy without the implant, with limited evidence of better anatomic outcome as well. Further studies are needed to ascertain whether dexamethasone implant would ensure a significant long-term visual benefit as a result of a faster reduction of macular thickening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Fallico
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Maugeri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni L Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Longo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenza Bonfiglio
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, Ophthalmology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Russo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Martina Barchitta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Paola Marolo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Ventre
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Parisi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Zingales V, Torrisi SA, Leggio GM, Bucolo C, Drago F, Salomone S. Pharmacological and Genetic Evidence of Dopamine Receptor 3-Mediated Vasoconstriction in Isolated Mouse Aorta. Biomolecules 2021; 11:418. [PMID: 33799860 PMCID: PMC8001456 DOI: 10.3390/biom11030418] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine receptors (DRs) are generally considered as mediators of vasomotor functions. However, when used in pharmacological studies, dopamine and/or DR agonists may not discriminate among different DR subtypes and may even stimulate alpha1 and beta-adrenoceptors. Here, we tested the hypothesis that D2R and/or D3R may specifically induce vasoconstriction in isolated mouse aorta. Aorta, isolated from wild-type (WT) and D3R-/- mice, was mounted in a wire myograph and challenged with cumulative concentrations of phenylephrine (PE), acetylcholine (ACh), and the D3R agonist 7-hydrxy-N,N-dipropyl-2-aminotetralin (7-OH-DPAT), with or without the D2R antagonist L741,626 and the D3R antagonist SB-277011-A. The vasoconstriction to PE and the vasodilatation to ACh were not different in WT and D3R-/-; in contrast, the contractile responses to 7-OH-DPAT were significantly weaker in D3R-/-, though not abolished. L741,626 did not change the contractile response induced by 7-OH-DPAT in WT or in D3R-/-, whereas SB-277011-A significantly reduced it in WT but did not in D3R-/-. D3R mRNA (assessed by qPCR) was about 5-fold more abundant than D2R mRNA in aorta from WT and undetectable in aorta from D3R-/-. Following transduction with lentivirus (72-h incubation) delivering synthetic microRNAs to specifically inactivate D2R (LV-miR-D2) or D3R (LV-miR-D3), the contractile response to 7-OH-DPAT was unaffected by LV-miR-D2, while it was significantly reduced by LV-miR-D3. These data indicate that, at least in mouse aorta, D3R stimulation induces vasoconstriction, while D2R stimulation does not. This is consistent with the higher expression level of D3R. The residual vasoconstriction elicited by high concentration D3R agonist in D3R-/- and/or in the presence of D3R antagonist is likely to be unrelated to DRs.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aorta/drug effects
- Aorta/physiology
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Nitriles/pharmacology
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Dopamine D2/genetics
- Receptors, Dopamine D2/metabolism
- Receptors, Dopamine D3/agonists
- Receptors, Dopamine D3/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Dopamine D3/genetics
- Receptors, Dopamine D3/metabolism
- Tetrahydroisoquinolines/pharmacology
- Tetrahydronaphthalenes/pharmacology
- Vasoconstriction/drug effects
- Vasoconstriction/genetics
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Salvatore Salomone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (V.Z.); (S.A.T.); (G.M.L.); (C.B.); (F.D.)
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38
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Trotta MC, Gesualdo C, Platania CBM, De Robertis D, Giordano M, Simonelli F, D'Amico M, Drago F, Bucolo C, Rossi S. Circulating miRNAs in diabetic retinopathy patients: Prognostic markers or pharmacological targets? Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 186:114473. [PMID: 33607073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In this study we analyzed the expression of circulating miRNAs, in the serum of diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients. Five miRNAs (hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-20a-5p, hsa-miR-20b-5p, hsa-miR-27b-3p and hsa-miR-451a) were validated as biomarkers for stratification of DR stages, from the early non-proliferative (NPDR) to the late proliferative (PDR) phase. Furthermore, circulating levels of these miRNAs correlated with retinal hyper-reflective spots (HRS), assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT). The number of HRS increased with worsening of DR stages. On the contrary, no significant vascular density differences between NPDR and PDR patients were detected by angio-OCT (OCTA). A post-hoc bioinformatics analysis associated these five miRNAs to target genes belonging to the "Tumor Necrosis Factor alfa signaling" pathway, and several molecules were predicted to modify miRNAs expression. In conclusion, correlation between specific circulating miRNAs and intraretinal hyper-reflective spots was demonstrated, confirming that these miRNAs were validated as prognostic biomarkers, and also as potential pharmacological targets, warranting further clinical evaluation to explore novel therapeutics for diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Domenico De Robertis
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Giordano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology, CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology, CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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Torrisi SA, Lavanco G, Maurel OM, Gulisano W, Laudani S, Geraci F, Grasso M, Barbagallo C, Caraci F, Bucolo C, Ragusa M, Papaleo F, Campolongo P, Puzzo D, Drago F, Salomone S, Leggio GM. A novel arousal-based individual screening reveals susceptibility and resilience to PTSD-like phenotypes in mice. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 14:100286. [PMID: 33392367 PMCID: PMC7772817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Translational animal models for studying post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are valuable for elucidating the poorly understood neurobiology of this neuropsychiatric disorder. These models should encompass crucial features, including persistence of PTSD-like phenotypes triggered after exposure to a single traumatic event, trauma susceptibility/resilience and predictive validity. Here we propose a novel arousal-based individual screening (AIS) model that recapitulates all these features. The AIS model was designed by coupling the traumatization (24 h restraint) of C57BL/6 J mice with a novel individual screening. This screening consists of z-normalization of post-trauma changes in startle reactivity, which is a measure of arousal depending on neural circuits conserved across mammals. Through the AIS model, we identified susceptible mice showing long-lasting hyperarousal (up to 56 days post-trauma), and resilient mice showing normal arousal. Susceptible mice further showed persistent PTSD-like phenotypes including exaggerated fear reactivity and avoidance of trauma-related cue (up to 75 days post-trauma), increased avoidance-like behavior and social/cognitive impairment. Conversely, resilient mice adopted active coping strategies, behaving like control mice. We further uncovered novel transcriptional signatures driven by PTSD-related genes as well as dysfunction of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, which corroborated the segregation in susceptible/resilient subpopulations obtained through the AIS model and correlated with trauma susceptibility/resilience. Impaired hippocampal synaptic plasticity was also observed in susceptible mice. Finally, chronic treatment with paroxetine ameliorated the PTSD-like phenotypes of susceptible mice. These findings indicate that the AIS model might be a new translational animal model for the study of crucial features of PTSD. It might shed light on the unclear PTSD neurobiology and identify new pharmacological targets for this difficult-to-treat disorder. The AIS model includes highly requested features necessary to shape a translational PTSD animal model. Susceptible mice identified through the AIS model exhibited persistent PTSD-like phenotypes. Resilient mice identified through the AIS model adopted active coping strategies. The AIS model revealed molecular adaptations underlying trauma susceptibility/resilience. The AIS model meets the criterion of predictive validity by exclusively using susceptible mice.
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Key Words
- 5-trial SM, 5-trial social memory
- AIS, arousal-based individual screening
- ASR, acoustic startle reactivity
- Amy, amygdala
- Animal model
- BDNF, brain derived neurotropic factor
- BST, basal synaptic transmission
- C, control
- CORT, corticosterone
- DSM-5, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
- EPM, elevated plus maze
- FDA, Food and Drug Administration
- FKBP5, FK506 binding protein 5
- FST, forced swim test
- Fear conditioning
- HIP, hippocampus
- HPA, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal
- HT, hypothalamus
- OF, open field
- PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder
- Resilience
- SGK1, serum/glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1
- SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
- Stress
- Susceptibility
- TE, trauma-exposed
- Z-score
- fEPSPs, field excitatory post-synaptic potentials
- mPFC, medial prefrontal cortex
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiano A Torrisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lavanco
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,INSERM, U1215 Neurocentre Magendie and University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Oriana M Maurel
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Research Group "Neuronal Plasticity", Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Walter Gulisano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Samuele Laudani
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Geraci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Margherita Grasso
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy.,Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Cristina Barbagallo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy.,Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Ragusa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Neuroscience area, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Neurobiology of Behavior Laboratory, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Puzzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Salomone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Leggio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Montesel A, Bucolo C, Mouvet V, Moret E, Eandi CM. Case Report: Central Retinal Artery Occlusion in a COVID-19 Patient. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:588384. [PMID: 33424598 PMCID: PMC7785811 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.588384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [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: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) in a patient with a previous history of severe COVID-19 disease. This disease has been associated with inflammatory-induced homeostasis changes leading to endothelial dysfunction and a procoagulant state with multi-organ involvement, but the burden of thromboembolic complications in COVID-19 patients is currently unknown. The pathogenesis of retinal artery occlusions is a multifactorial process where inflammation and hypercoagulation state are established risk factors. Even if our experience may represent a coincidental relationship, it is likely that COVID-19 patients could be at risk of developing retinal vascular occlusions. A focused ophthalmological surveillance is advisable to prevent and manage this possible cause of severe vision loss that has an important impact in health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Montesel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Victoria Mouvet
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuelle Moret
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chiara M Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Bonfiglio V, Platania CBM, Lazzara F, Conti F, Pizzo C, Reibaldi M, Russo A, Fallico M, Ortisi E, Pignatelli F, Longo A, Avitabile T, Drago F, Bucolo C. TGF-β Serum Levels in Diabetic Retinopathy Patients and the Role of Anti-VEGF Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249558. [PMID: 33334029 PMCID: PMC7765505 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [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: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR), particularly in the late phase of disease. The aim of the present study was to validate serum TGFβ1 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of DR stages. Thirty-eight subjects were enrolled and, after diagnosis and evaluation of inclusion and exclusion criteria, were assigned to six groups: (1) healthy age-matched control, (2) diabetic without DR, (3) non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) naïve to treatment, (4) NPDR treated with intravitreal (IVT) aflibercept, (5) proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) naïve to treatment and (6) PDR treated with IVT aflibercept. Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), placental growth factor (PlGF) and TGFβ1 were measured by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Foveal macular thickness (FMT) in enrolled subjects was evaluated by means of structural-optical coherence tomography (S-OCT). VEGF-A serum levels decreased in NPDR and PDR patients treated with aflibercept, compared to naïve DR patients. PlGF serum levels were modulated only in aflibercept-treated NPDR patients. Particularly, TGFβ1 serum levels were predictive of disease progression from NPDR to PDR. A Multivariate ANOVA analysis (M-ANOVA) was also carried out to assess the effects of fixed factors on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, TGFβ1, and diabetes duration. In conclusion, our data have strengthened the hypothesis that TGFβ1 would be a biomarker and pharmacological target of diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Bonfiglio
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, Ophthalmology Section, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.B.M.P.); (F.L.); (F.C.); (F.D.)
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.B.M.P.); (F.L.); (F.C.); (F.D.)
| | - Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.B.M.P.); (F.L.); (F.C.); (F.D.)
| | - Corrado Pizzo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (A.R.); (M.F.); (E.O.); (A.L.); (T.A.)
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Science, Eye Clinic, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy;
| | - Andrea Russo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (A.R.); (M.F.); (E.O.); (A.L.); (T.A.)
| | - Matteo Fallico
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (A.R.); (M.F.); (E.O.); (A.L.); (T.A.)
| | - Elina Ortisi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (A.R.); (M.F.); (E.O.); (A.L.); (T.A.)
| | | | - Antonio Longo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (A.R.); (M.F.); (E.O.); (A.L.); (T.A.)
| | - Teresio Avitabile
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (A.R.); (M.F.); (E.O.); (A.L.); (T.A.)
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.B.M.P.); (F.L.); (F.C.); (F.D.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.B.M.P.); (F.L.); (F.C.); (F.D.)
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Lo Bianco G, Di Pietro S, Mazzuca E, Imburgia A, Tarantino L, Accurso G, Benenati V, Vernuccio F, Bucolo C, Salomone S, Riolo M. Multidisciplinary Approach to the Diagnosis and In-Hospital Management of COVID-19 Infection: A Narrative Review. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:572168. [PMID: 33362541 PMCID: PMC7758731 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.572168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 disease) was declared a pandemic on 11th March 2020 by the World Health Organization. This unprecedented circumstance has challenged hospitals' response capacity, requiring significant structural and organizational changes to cope with the surge in healthcare demand and to minimize in-hospital risk of transmission. As our knowledge advances, we now understand that COVID-19 is a multi-systemic disease rather than a mere respiratory tract infection, therefore requiring holistic care and expertise from various medical specialties. In fact, the clinical spectrum of presentation ranges from respiratory complaints to gastrointestinal, cardiac or neurological symptoms. In addition, COVID-19 pandemic has created a global burden of mental illness that affects the general population as well as healthcare practitioners. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive and multidisciplinary insight into the complexity of this disease, reviewing current scientific evidence on COVID-19 management and treatment across several medical specialties involved in the in-hospital care of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliano Lo Bianco
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Anesthesiology and Pain Department, Fondazione Istituto G.Giglio, Cefalù, Italy
| | - Santi Di Pietro
- Emergency Medicine Fellowship Programme, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Emergency Department, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emilia Mazzuca
- Unità operativa Complessa di Pneumologia, A.O. Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Luca Tarantino
- Cliniche Humanitas Gavazzeni, U.O. Elettrofisiologia, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Accurso
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Science (Di.Chir.On.S.), Section of Anaesthesia, Analgesia, Intensive Care and Emergency, Policlinico Paolo Giaccone, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Federica Vernuccio
- Section of Radiology, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Salomone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marianna Riolo
- Struttura Complessa di Neurologia, Ospedale Santa Croce di Moncalieri, Asl TO5, Moncalieri (TO), Italy
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Mannino G, Gennuso F, Giurdanella G, Conti F, Drago F, Salomone S, Furno DL, Bucolo C, Giuffrida R. Pericyte-like differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells: An in vitro study. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:1152-1170. [PMID: 33178398 PMCID: PMC7596446 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i10.1152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are characterized by long-term self-renewal and a high proliferation rate. Under adequate conditions, they may differentiate into cells belonging to mesodermal, endodermal or ectodermal lineages. Pericytes support endothelial cells and play an important role in stabilizing the vessel wall at the microcirculation level. The loss of pericytes, as occurs in diabetic retinopathy, results in a breakdown of the blood-retina barrier (BRB) and infiltration of inflammatory cells. In this context, the use of pericyte-like differentiated ASCs may represent a valuable therapeutic strategy for restoring BRB damage.
AIM To test in vitro strategies to obtain pericyte-like differentiation of human ASCs (hASCs).
METHODS Different culture conditions were tested: hASCs cultured in a basal medium supplemented with transforming growth factor β1; and hASCs cultured in a specific pericyte medium (PM-hASCs). In a further sample, pericyte growth supplement was omitted from the PM. In addition, cultures of human retinal pericytes (hRPCs) were used for comparison. Pericyte-like differentiation of hASCs was tested by immunocytochemical staining and western blotting to evaluate the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and neural/glial antigen 2 (NG2). Interactions between human retinal endothelial cells (hRECs) and different groups of hASCs were investigated in co-culture experiments. In these cases, the expression of typical junctional proteins such as vascular endothelial-Cadherin, zonula occludens-1 and Occludin were assessed in hRECs. In an in vitro model of the BRB, values of trans-endothelial electrical resistance were measured when hRECs were co-cultured with various groups of pretreated hASCs. The values observed were compared with co-cultures of hRECs and hRPCs as well as with cultures of hRECs alone. Three-dimensional co-cultures of hRECs and hRPCs or pericyte-like hASCs in Matrigel were designed to assess their reciprocal localization.
RESULTS After 3-6 d of culture, α-SMA and NG2 immunocytochemistry showed that the closest pericyte-like phenotype was observed when hASCs were cultured in Pericyte Medium (PM-hASCs). In particular, α-SMA immunoreactivity, already visible at the basal level in pericytes and ASCs, was strongly increased only when transforming growth factor was added to the culture medium. NG2 expression, almost undetectable in most conditions, was substantially increased only in PM-hASCs. Immunocytochemical results were confirmed by western blot analysis. The presence of pericyte growth supplement seems to increase NG2 expression rather than α-SMA, in agreement with its role in maintaining pericytes in the proliferative state. In co-culture experiments, immunoreactivity of vascular endothelial-Cadherin, zonula occludens-1 and Occludin was considerably increased in hRECs when hRPCs or PM-hASCs were also present. Supporting results were found by trans-endothelial electrical resistance measurements, gathered at 3 and 6 d of co-culture. The highest resistance values were obtained when hRECs were co-cultured with hRPCs or PM-hASCs. The pericyte-like phenotype of PM-hASCs was also confirmed in three-dimensional co-cultures in Matrigel, where PM-hASCs and hRPCs similarly localized around the tubular formations made by hRECs.
CONCLUSION PM-hASCs seem able to strengthen the intercellular junctions between hRECs, likely reinforcing the BRB; thus, hASC-based therapeutic approaches may be developed to restore the integrity of retinal microcirculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Mannino
- Physiology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Florinda Gennuso
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Giovanni Giurdanella
- Biochemistry Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Federica Conti
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Salvatore Salomone
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Debora Lo Furno
- Physiology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Rosario Giuffrida
- Physiology Section, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
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44
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Petrillo F, Trotta MC, Bucolo C, Hermenean A, Petrillo A, Maisto R, Pieretti G, Pietropaolo M, Ferraraccio F, Gagliano C, Galdiero M, D'Amico M. Resolvin D1 attenuates the inflammatory process in mouse model of LPS-induced keratitis. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:12298-12307. [PMID: 33058526 PMCID: PMC7686975 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15633] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the lipid mediator Resolvin D1 in experimental keratitis. C57BL/6J mice were injected with lipopolysaccharide (2 µg/eye), and after 24 hours, the corneal damage was assessed. Clinical score was quantified, and corneal inflammatory biomarkers were detected by immunohistochemistry. A robust accumulation of sub‐epithelial macrophages and polymorphonuclear leucocytes, chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 1 (also known as keratinocyte‐derived chemokine), interleukin‐10 and promoters of apoptosis was also observed in lipopolysaccharide‐treated mice. Formyl peptide receptor 2 corneal expression was also assessed. The corneal stroma treated with lipopolysaccharide was characterized by presence of macrophages of M1‐like subtype and immature fibroblastic cells, marked with Ki67, not fully differentiated in fibroblasts. Indeed, the staining of the cornea with anti‐vimentin antibodies, a marker of differentiated myofibroblasts, was very faint. Resolvin D1 attenuated all the inflammatory parameters assessed in the present study, except for IL‐10. In conclusion, the data presented here seem to be consistent with the hypothesis that Resolvin D1 protected the cornea from the lipopolysaccharide‐induced keratitis by acting on several inflammatory components of this damage, pivoted by Formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2) activation and macrophages‐leucocytes activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- Institute of Life Science, Vasile Goldis Western University, Arad, Romania
| | - Arianna Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Maisto
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Gorizio Pieretti
- Multidisciplinary Department of Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania'L. Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Pietropaolo
- General Directorate of the University Polyclinic 'L. Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Franca Ferraraccio
- Department of Clinical, Public and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania 'L. Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Eye Clinic, University of Catania and Santa Marta Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
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45
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Burgaletto C, Munafò A, Di Benedetto G, De Francisci C, Caraci F, Di Mauro R, Bucolo C, Bernardini R, Cantarella G. The immune system on the TRAIL of Alzheimer's disease. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:298. [PMID: 33050925 PMCID: PMC7556967 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01968-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [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: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, characterized by progressive degeneration and loss of neurons in specific regions of the central nervous system. Chronic activation of the immune cells resident in the brain, peripheral immune cell trafficking across the blood-brain barrier, and release of inflammatory and neurotoxic factors, appear critical contributors of the neuroinflammatory response that drives the progression of neurodegenerative processes in AD. As the neuro-immune network is impaired in course of AD, this review is aimed to point out the essential supportive role of innate and adaptive immune response either in normal brain as well as in brain recovery from injury. Since a fine-tuning of the immune response appears crucial to ensure proper nervous system functioning, we focused on the role of the TNF superfamily member, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), which modulates both the innate and adaptive immune response in the pathogenesis of several immunological disorders and, in particular, in AD-related neuroinflammation. We here summarized mounting evidence of potential involvement of TRAIL signaling in AD pathogenesis, with the aim to provide clearer insights about potential novel therapeutic approaches in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Burgaletto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Munafò
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Benedetto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy
| | - Cettina De Francisci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Rosaria Di Mauro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy.,Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy
| | - Renato Bernardini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy. .,Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Cantarella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, Catania, Italy
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Romano GL, Amato R, Lazzara F, Porciatti V, Chou TH, Drago F, Bucolo C. P2X7 receptor antagonism preserves retinal ganglion cells in glaucomatous mice. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 180:114199. [PMID: 32798466 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [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: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the role of P2X7 receptor to preserve retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) structure and function in a genetic mouse model (DBA/2J mouse) of age-related glaucomatous neurodegeneration. Chronic treatment with P2X7 receptor antagonist eye drops was carried out in order to assess RGCs function and density by pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and RBPMS immunostaining, respectively. Further, microglia activation was assessed in flat-mounted retina by using Iba-1 immunostaining. Untreated glaucomatous eyes displayed significant microglia activation, alteration of PERG signal, and RGCs loss. In the P2X7 receptor antagonist-treated eyes, the PERG signal was significantly (p < 0.05) improved compared to controls, along with a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in terms of retinal microglial activation, and remarkable preservation of RGCs density. Altogether, these findings demonstrated that topical treatment with a P2X7 receptor antagonist has a neuroprotective effect on RGCs in glaucomatous mice, suggesting an appealing pharmacological approach to prevent retinal degenerative damage in optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Luca Romano
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Department, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Rosario Amato
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States; Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Department, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Filippo Drago
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Department, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology - CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Department, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology - CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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47
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Platania CBM, Ronchetti S, Riccardi C, Migliorati G, Marchetti MC, Di Paola L, Lazzara F, Drago F, Salomone S, Bucolo C. Effects of protein-protein interface disruptors at the ligand of the glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor-related gene (GITR). Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 178:114110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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48
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Lazzara F, Trotta MC, Platania CBM, D'Amico M, Petrillo F, Galdiero M, Gesualdo C, Rossi S, Drago F, Bucolo C. Stabilization of HIF-1α in Human Retinal Endothelial Cells Modulates Expression of miRNAs and Proangiogenic Growth Factors. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1063. [PMID: 32848728 PMCID: PMC7396674 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal hypoxia is one of the causative factors of diabetic retinopathy and is also one of the triggers of VEGF release. We hypothesized that specific dysregulated miRNAs in diabetic retinopathy could be linked to hypoxia-induced damage in human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs). We investigated in HRECs the effects of chemical (CoCl2) hypoxia on the expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, PlGF, and of a focused set of miRNAs. We found that miR-20a-5p, miR-20b-5p, miR-27a-3p, miR-27b-3p, miR-206-3p, miR-381-3p correlated also with expression of TGFβ signaling pathway genes in HRECs, challenged with chemical hypoxic stimuli. In conclusion, our data suggest that retinal angiogenesis would be promoted, at least under HIF-1α activation, by upregulation of PlGF and other factors such as miRNAs, VEGFA, and TGFβ1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Maisto R, Trotta MC, Petrillo F, Izzo S, Cuomo G, Alfano R, Hermenean A, Barcia JM, Galdiero M, Platania CBM, Bucolo C, D'Amico M. Corrigendum: Resolvin D1 Modulates the Intracellular VEGF-Related miRNAs of Retinal Photoreceptors Challenged With High Glucose. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:871. [PMID: 32612528 PMCID: PMC7308723 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maisto
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Izzo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Cuomo
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Alfano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- Institute of Life Sciences, VasileGoldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Jorge Miquel Barcia
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of Valencia "Saint Vicente Martir", Valencia, Spain
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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Spadaro A, Rao M, Lorenti M, Romano MR, Augello A, Eandi CM, Platania CBM, Drago F, Bucolo C. New Brilliant Blue G Derivative as Pharmacological Tool in Retinal Surgery. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:708. [PMID: 32523529 PMCID: PMC7261835 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Our study was aimed at assessing the retinal binding of a new synthetic Brilliant Blue G (BBG) derivative (pure benzyl-Brilliant Blue G; PBB) ophthalmic formulation, to improve vitreoretinal surgery procedure. Protein affinity of the new molecule was evaluated in vitro (cell-free assay) and in silico. Furthermore, an ex vivo model of vitreoretinal surgery was developed by using porcine eyes to assess the pharmacological profile of PBB, compared to commercial formulations based on BBG and methyl-BBG (Me-BBG). PBB showed a higher affinity for proteins (p < 0.05), compared to BBG and Me-BBG. In vitro and in silico studies demonstrated that the high selectivity of PBB could be related to high lipophilicity and binding affinity to fibronectin, the main component of the retinal internal limiting membrane (ILM). The PBB staining capabilities were evaluated in porcine eyes in comparison with BBG and Me-BBG. Forty microliters of each formulation were slowly placed over the retinal surface and removed after 30 s. After that, ILM peeling was carried out, and the retina collected. BBG, Me-BBG, and PBB quantification in ILM and retina tissues was carried out by HPLC analysis. PBB levels in the ILM were significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to BBG and Me-BBG formulations. On the contrary, PBB showed a much lower (p < 0.05) distribution in retina (52 ng/mg tissue) compared to BBG and Me-BBG, in particular PBB levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower. Therefore, the new synthetic Brilliant Blue derivative (PBB) showed a great ILM selectivity in comparison to underneath retinal layers. In conclusion, these findings had high translational impact with a tangible improving in ex vivo model of retinal surgery, suggesting a future use during surgical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Spadaro
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Rao
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Miriam Lorenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Augello
- Section of Hygiene and Food of Animal Origin (SIAOA - UFCM), Department of Veterinary Prevention, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale (ASP - CT), Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Eandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Hôpital Ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Surgical Science, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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