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Balestra E, Barbi E, Ceconi V, Di Maso V, Conversano E, Pennesi M. Pioglitazone, a PPAR-y agonist, as one of the new therapeutic candidates for C3 glomerulopathy. Pediatr Nephrol 2024; 39:309-314. [PMID: 37493956 PMCID: PMC10673980 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-023-06088-5] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND C3-glomerulopathy (C3G) is a rare pediatric kidney disease characterised by dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway, with glomerular deposition of C3. C3G may often present as a steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS), and there is no established effective therapy: the usual treatment involves corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs. Pioglitazone, a PPAR-γ agonist with a protective action on podocytes, was reported in a few cases as helpful in reducing proteinuria when combined with steroids. CASE-DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT We report the case of a 13-year-old girl with silent past medical history who presented with SRNS. A kidney biopsy showed findings indicative of C3G. A low sodium diet and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor were started; immunosuppressive treatment with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) was administered due to the cortico-resistance. Because of poor response to the immunosuppressant, a trial with eculizumab was attempted without significant response and persistence of proteinuria in the nephrotic range. A further therapeutic trial was performed with tacrolimus with no disease remission. Due to a severe deterioration in her condition, the girl was hospitalized and treated with high-dose steroid bolus. A daily dose of oral prednisone and MMF were re-started without benefit with persistent levels of nephrotic range proteinuria. The administration of pioglitazone consistently lowered proteinuria levels for the first time since the onset of the disease, with a maintenance of the effect and normalization (< 0.15 g/24 h) at the 10-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In this patient affected by C3G, pioglitazone proved effective in reducing proteinuria levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elia Balestra
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Egidio Barbi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Paediatric Department, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Viola Ceconi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Vittorio Di Maso
- Department of Nephrology, Cattinara Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI), Trieste, Italy
| | - Ester Conversano
- Paediatric Department, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Pennesi
- Paediatric Department, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
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Balestra E, Traunero A, Barbi E. Investigating the role of Vitamin D in NAFLD: is liver biopsy justifiable in children? Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:3985. [PMID: 36001129 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-022-04598-2] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Egidio Barbi
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute for Maternal, Child Health IRCCS 'Burlo Garofolo', Trieste, Italy
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3
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Mioli V, Balestra E, Bibiano L, Dellabella S, Fanciulli E, Gaffi G, Perilli A, Petroselli F, Ricciatti A, Carletti P. Behavior of Beta 2-microglobulin (B2-m) serum levels in uremic patients. Int J Artif Organs 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/039139889401701104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This Study Was Performed In 97 Hemodialysis Patients (85 On Hd And 12 On Capd) To Investigate The Possible Correlation Between B2-M And Hemodialysis-Related Amyloidosis Syndromes (Hra-S); Differences In B2-M And Hra Behavior Between Patients Hemodialysed With Cellulose And Synthetic Membranes Were Also Included In The Present Study. Data Indicate That B2-M Levels Are Not Correlated With Dialysis Length Or With The Type Of Membrane Used For The Dialysis. On The Contrary, In 16 Patients With The Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, A Significant Correlation Was Found Between The Cts, The Dialysis Length And The Type Of Membrane (Greater Incidence With Cellulosic Membranes).
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Affiliation(s)
- V.A. Mioli
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - E. Balestra
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - L. Bibiano
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - S. Dellabella
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - E. Fanciulli
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - G. Gaffi
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - A. Perilli
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - F. Petroselli
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - A.M. Ricciatti
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
| | - P. Carletti
- Nephrological And Dialysis Department, Umberto 1St University Hospital, Torrette Di Ancona (Ancona) - Italy
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Surdo M, Alteri C, Puertas MC, Saccomandi P, Parrotta L, Swenson L, Chapman D, Costa G, Artese A, Balestra E, Aquaro S, Alcaro S, Lewis M, Clotet B, Harrigan R, Valdez H, Svicher V, Perno CF, Martinez-Picado J, Ceccherini-Silberstein F. Effect of maraviroc on non-R5 tropic HIV-1: refined analysis of subjects from the phase IIb study A4001029. Clin Microbiol Infect 2014; 21:103.e1-6. [PMID: 25636934 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
We characterized maraviroc susceptibility of dual/mixed tropic viruses from subjects enrolled onto phase IIb study A4001029. Maraviroc baseline plasma samples from 13 multidrug-experienced subjects were sequenced and the HIV-1-env gene cloned into pNL4.3Δenv to obtain recombinant viruses. The V3 region was sequenced by the Sanger method and ultradeep sequencing. By analysing subjects having a weighted optimized background therapy susceptibility (wOBT) score of <1, 3/7 subjects were characterized by good in vivo and in vitro response to maraviroc therapy. Molecular docking simulations allowed us to rationalize the maraviroc susceptibility of dual/mixed tropic viruses. A subset of subjects with dual/mixed tropic viruses responded to maraviroc. Further investigations are warranted of CCR5 antagonists in subjects carrying dual/mixed tropic virus that explore the feasible use of maraviroc in subjects that is potentially larger than those infected with a pure R5 virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Surdo
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - C Alteri
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M C Puertas
- Institut de Recerca de la SIDA irsiCaixa, Hospital Universitari 'Germans Trias i Pujol', Badalona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Catalonia, Spain
| | - P Saccomandi
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - L Parrotta
- Department of Pharmacobiological Sciences, University of Catanzaro 'Magna Græcia', Catanzaro, Italy
| | - L Swenson
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - G Costa
- Department of Pharmacobiological Sciences, University of Catanzaro 'Magna Græcia', Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A Artese
- Department of Pharmacobiological Sciences, University of Catanzaro 'Magna Græcia', Catanzaro, Italy
| | - E Balestra
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - S Aquaro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - S Alcaro
- Department of Pharmacobiological Sciences, University of Catanzaro 'Magna Græcia', Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - B Clotet
- Institut de Recerca de la SIDA irsiCaixa, Hospital Universitari 'Germans Trias i Pujol', Badalona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Catalonia, Spain; Universitat de Vic (UVic), Catalonia, Spain
| | - R Harrigan
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - V Svicher
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - C F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - J Martinez-Picado
- Institut de Recerca de la SIDA irsiCaixa, Hospital Universitari 'Germans Trias i Pujol', Badalona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Catalonia, Spain; Universitat de Vic (UVic), Catalonia, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
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Santoro MM, Armenia D, Fabeni L, Santoro M, Gori C, Forbici F, Svicher V, Bertoli A, Dori L, Surdo M, Balestra E, Palamara G, Girardi E, Angarano G, Andreoni M, Narciso P, Antinori A, Ceccherini-Silberstein F, Perno CF. The lowest X4 Geno2Pheno false-positive rate is associated with greater CD4 depletion in HIV-1 infected patients. Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 18:E289-98. [PMID: 22681969 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2012.03905.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Through this study we evaluated whether the HIV-1 tropism determined by genotypic analysis correlates with HIV-1 markers, such as CD4 cell count and plasma HIV-RNA. The analysis was performed on 1221 HIV-1 B-subtype infected patients with an available V3 sequence (all maraviroc naive). Of them, 532 were antiretroviral therapy (ART) naive and 689 ART experienced. Tropism determination was performed by using the geno2pheno (co-receptor) algorithm set at a false-positive rate (FPR) of 10% and 2%. Potential associations of FPR with CD4 cell count and viraemia were evaluated. Association of V3 mutations with genotypic-determined tropism was also evaluated according to different FPR ranges. About 26% of patients (either ART naive or ART experienced) were infected by X4-tropic viruses (using the classical 10% FPR cut-off). However, a significantly lower proportion of ART-naive patients had FPR ≤ 2% in comparison with ART-experienced patients (4.9% vs. 12.6%, respectively, p <0.001). The risk of advanced HIV-1 infection (with CD4 cell count ≤ 200 cells/mm(3)) was significantly greater in X4-infected patients, either ART-naive (OR (95% CI)), 4.2 (1.8-9.2); p 0.0006) or ART-experienced (2.3 (1.4-3.6); p 0.0003), with FPR set at 2% (but not at 10%). This finding was confirmed by multivariable logistic analysis. No relationship was found between viraemia and FPR ≤2%. Some X4-related mutations were significantly associated with FPR ≤2% (ART-naive patients, S11R, Y21V, G24K and G24R, p ≤0.001; ART-experienced patients, Y7K, S11R, H13Y, p ≤0.002). In conclusion, these findings show that within the context of genotypically-assessed CXCR4 tropism, FPR ≤2% defines (far better than 10%-FPR) a viral population associated with low CD4 rank, with potentially greater cytopathic effect, and with more advanced disease.
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Passerini P, Scolari F, Frasca' GM, Leoni A, Venturelli C, Dallera N, Ravera S, Balestra E, Freddi P, Fanciulli E, D'Arezzo M, Sagripanti S. [Controversial issues in the Giornale Italiano di Nefrologia: how to treat patients with focal segmental glomerular sclerosis]. G Ital Nefrol 2009; 26:563-576. [PMID: 19802802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Primary focal segmental glomerular sclerosis (FSGS) commonly presents with nephrotic syndrome. Spontaneous remission is rare and persistent nephrotic syndrome is a marker of poor prognosis. For this reason, obtaining remission using drugs with minimal side effects is desirable. The treatment of FSGS, however, represents a challenge. Not only is there a lack of prospective controlled trials, but FSGS is a syndrome of unknown pathophysiology, generally treated with drugs having a mechanism of action that is poorly understood in this setting, the use of which has often drawn criticism because it is based on empirical assumptions rather than pathogenetic evidence. At present, corticosteroids are the standard first-line approach in patients with idiopathic FSGS. Cytotoxic agents and cyclosporin A constitute a good therapeutic option for steroid-dependent patients or frequent relapsers. Mycophenolate mofetil, rituximab and plasmapheresis should be used as rescue treatment because further studies are required to determine their safety and efficacy. Clearly, real progress in FSGS treatment can only be obtained by research focused on the pathophysiology of this disease, so that a therapeutic approach can be defined that is based on reason rather than chance.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Passerini
- U.O. Nefrologia e Dialisi, Fondazione, Ospedale Maggiore, Policlinico ''Mangiagalli e Regina Elena'', Milano, Italy.
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7
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D'Arezzo M, Balestra E, Fanciulli E, Freddi P, Sagripanti S, Mazzucchelli R, Montironi R, Cangiotti A, Merlini G, Frasca' GM. [Nephrotic proteinuria with type 2 diabetes mellitus and autoimmune thyroiditis]. G Ital Nefrol 2009; 26:621-624. [PMID: 19802808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This study reports on a 67-year-old man, suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus for 11 years along with arterial hypertension and autoimmune thyroiditis, in whom nephrotic proteinuria was detected together with a mild reduction in GFR. No autoantibodies or monoclonal proteins were detected in blood and urine. Renal biopsy material examined by light microscopy, immunofluorescence and electron microscopy showed AL amyloidosis. This case underlines the role of renal biopsy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in whom renal diseases other than diabetic nephropathy may occur frequently.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D'Arezzo
- Nefrologia, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy.
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8
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Franchetti P, Cappellacci L, Petrelli R, Vita P, Grifantini M, Rossi L, Pierigé F, Serafini S, Magnani M, Balestra E, Perno CF. Inhibition of HIV-1 replication in macrophages by red blood cell-mediated delivery of a heterodinucleotide of lamivudine and tenofovir. Nucleosides Nucleotides Nucleic Acids 2008; 26:953-7. [PMID: 18058516 DOI: 10.1080/15257770701508067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Homo- and heterodimers of nucleoside/nucleotide analogues as reverse transcriptase inhibitors are effective on HIV-1-infected human monocyte-derived macrophages (M/M) compared to the single drugs or their combination. Since the combined treatment of lamivudine (3TC) and tenofovir ((R)PMPA) has an antiretroviral efficacy and a synergic effect respect to separate drugs, the heterodinucleotide 3TCpPMPA was synthesized. A single administration of the dimer as free drug or 3TCpPMPA-loaded RBC selectively targeted to M/M was able to almost completely protect macrophages from "de novo" infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Franchetti
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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9
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Frascà GM, Balestra E, Fanciulli E, Freddi P, Mazzucchelli R, Montironi R, D'Arezzo M, Sagripanti S. [Thin glomerular basement membrane disease]. G Ital Nefrol 2008; 25:49-56. [PMID: 18264918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Thin glomerular basement membrane disease (TBMD) is a hereditary nephropathy characterized by thinning of the glomerular basement membrane evinced by electron microscopy and, clinically, by isolated hematuria without extrarenal manifestations. Familial aggregation is found in 50-60% of cases, with autosomal dominant transmission. TBMD is considered to belong to the type IV collagen spectrum of diseases, since heterozygous mutations of the COL4A3 or COL4A4 gene have been detected in more than 30% of patients. The disease is found in 1-2% of biopsies, but the prevalence in the general population may be higher. The differential diagnosis with Alport's syndrome may be difficult and requires accurate family investigations, immunohistochemical evaluation of type IV collagen alpha chains in renal tissue and, if appropriate, genetic studies. Progression towards chronic renal failure, although rare, has been reported in some patients, and may be related to the phenotypical variability of COL4A3/COL4A4 mutations, to a missed Alport syndrome, or to superimposed glomerular disease. Patients suffering from TBMD and affected relatives should be periodically examined for signs of disease progression and informed about the possibility of transmitting the autosomal recessive form of Alport's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Frascà
- Nefrologia, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy.
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Rossi L, Serafini S, Franchetti P, Cappellacci L, Fraternale A, Casabianca A, Brandi G, Pierige F, Perno CF, Balestra E, Benatti U, Millo E, Grifantini M, Magnani M. Targeting Nucleotide Dimers Containing Antiviral Nucleosides. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.2174/1568012052931214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Perno CF, Balestra E, Francesconi M, Abdelahad D, Caliò R, Balzarini J, Aquaro S. Antiviral profile of HIV inhibitors in macrophages: implications for therapy. Curr Top Med Chem 2004; 4:1009-15. [PMID: 15134554 DOI: 10.2174/1568026043388565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages (M/M) are identified as the second cellular target of HIV and a crucial virus reservoir. M/M are persistently infected cells and not susceptible to the HIV cytophatic effects typical of infected CD4+ T-lymphocytes. HIV replication in M/M is a crucial pathogenetic event during the whole course of the disease. Moreover, the dynamics of HIV-1 replication and cumulative virus production is quite different in M/M and CD4+ T-lymphocytes in the presence or in the absence of antiviral drugs. Thus, for their unique cellular characteristics, the activity of anti-HIV compounds could be different in M/M than in CD4+ T-lymphocytes. Indeed, nucleoside analogues inhibitors of HIV-reverse transcriptase (NRTIs) show potent antiviral activity in macrophages, although the limited penetration of these compounds in sequestered body compartments and the scarce phosphorylation ability of macrophages, suggest that a phosphate group linked to NRTIs may confer a greater anti-HIV activity in such cells. The antiviral activity of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) in macrophages is similar to that found in CD4-lymphocytes. Interestingly, protease inhibitors (PIs), acting at post-integrational stages of virus replication, are the only drugs able to interfere with virus production and release from macrophages with established and persistent HIV infection. For these reasons, a careful analysis of the distribution of antiviral drugs, and the assessment of their activity in cells of macrophage lineage, represent key factors in the development of therapeutic strategies aimed to the treatment of the HIV-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via Montpellier, 1 00133 Roma, Italy.
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Balestra E, Aquaro S, Perno CF. HIV/HCV co-infection: the magnitude of the problem. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2003; 17:138-43. [PMID: 14518712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) share routes of transmission, therefore their coinfection is relatively common. Nevertheless, the clinical relevance of this event has been minimal until few years ago when, due to the increased survival of HIV-infected individuals (favoured by highly active antiretroviral therapy) morbility and mortality caused by pathologies not strictly related to HIV (such as HCV infection) raised sharply. Despite differences in their general characteristics (including lifecycle, target cells, and type of persistence in the infected host) a remarkable level of interaction exists between HCV and HIV; this makes the progression of both liver disease and immunological damage easier and more rapid. A therapeutic approach to HIV/HCV coinfection thus requires the utilization of drugs and strategies effective against both viruses, yet, timing, drug types, and effective combinations still remain poorly defined. New and innovative studies specifically focused on HIV/HCV coinfection are thus warranted to increase the knowledge about their interaction, and define therapeutic strategies aimed to the best management of the infection by both viruses during coinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Balestra
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Feige K, Kästner SBR, Dempfle CE, Balestra E. Changes in coagulation and markers of fibrinolysis in horses undergoing colic surgery. J Vet Med A Physiol Pathol Clin Med 2003; 50:30-6. [PMID: 12650506 DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0442.2003.00503.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Activation of coagulation can be frequently found in horses with colic. However, it has also been demonstrated as a sequela of surgical trauma alone in humans. The purpose of the present study was to determine changes in coagulation and fibrinolysis in horses that underwent colic surgery and to evaluate whether these changes were secondary to the colic or the surgery and wound healing. Thirty horses that underwent colic surgery with uncomplicated recovery were included. Ten horses with a Forssell's procedure served as control group with a standardized surgical trauma. Besides daily physical examinations during the observation period of 10 days, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time and thrombin time as well as fibrin monomer (FM), D-Dimer (DD) and antithrombin (AT) III were determined. Compared with the control group the aPTT was the only standard coagulation test that was significantly prolonged before and after the event of colic surgery. After surgery, hyperfibrinogenaemia occurred in all groups. In colic groups FM and DD concentrations were within reference range at admission,and were significantly greater than in control horses after surgery. AT III activity decreased after colic surgery, but did not change in the control group. It was concluded that an activated coagulation state after colic surgery has to be expected, resulting not only from the colic disease, but also from the event of surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Feige
- Equine Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Abstract
Acyclovir is an acyclic guanine analog with a considerable activity against herpes simplex viruses. We studied the antiherpetic activity of acyclovir in macrophages and fibroblast cell lines. Utilising a plaque reduction assay we found that acyclovir potently inhibited the HSV-1 replication in macrophages (EC50) = 0.0025 microM) compared to Vero (EC50 = 8.5 microM) and MRC-5 (EC50 = 3.3 microM) cells. The cytotoxicity of acyclovir was not detected at concentrations < or = 20 microM, thus the selective index in macrophages was >8000. This marked difference in antiherpetic activity between macrophages and fibroblasts was not observed with Foscarnet and PMEA. We suggest that this potent antiviral effect of acyclovir is mainly due to a proficient phosphorylation of the drug and/or a favourable dGTP/acyclovir triphosphate ratio in macrophage cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Brand
- Institute of Toxicologic Hygienic and Environmental Science, G. Fornaini University of Urbino, Italy.
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Balestra E, Perno CF, Aquaro S, Panti S, Bertoli A, Piacentini M, Forbici F, D'Arrigo R, Calió R, Garaci E. Macrophages: a crucial reservoir for human immunodeficiency virus in the body. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2001; 15:272-6. [PMID: 11693436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
The replication of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in cells of macrophage lineage represents a key pathogenetic event of the neurological damages typically found during the course of this disease. Macrophages are persistently infected cells and thus not susceptible to the cytophatic effect typical of infected activated CD4-lymphocytes. The resistance of macrophages to HIV infection is at least in part mediated by the autocrine production of the nerve growth factor (NGF), a neurokine able to sustain the survival of some cells of bone marrow origin, including monocyte-derived macrophages. This anti-apoptotic effect of NGF in HIV-infected macrophages can be even more relevant at the central nervous system level, where many cells are able to physiologically produce NGF, thus further increasing the survival of macrophages infected by HIV, and enhancing the damages that these cells may induce upon bystander neurons. The proapoptotic effect of soluble factors released by HIV-infected macrophages may heavily affect the survival and functions also of astrocytes, that in turn become unable to sustain neuronal homeostasis. Taken together, this information supports the importance of therapeutic attempts aimed at attacking virus replication in infected macrophages and/or to selectively eliminate these chronically infected and persistently virus-producing cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Balestra
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
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Rossi L, Serafini S, Cappellacci L, Balestra E, Brandi G, Schiavano GF, Franchetti P, Grifantini M, Perno CF, Magnani M. Erythrocyte-mediated delivery of a new homodinucleotide active against human immunodeficiency virus and herpes simplex virus. J Antimicrob Chemother 2001; 47:819-27. [PMID: 11389114 DOI: 10.1093/jac/47.6.819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) play a central role in the pathogenesis of infection by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) and represent one of the main reservoirs of the virus in the body. In addition, MDMs can easily be infected by various herpes viruses, including herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). We have synthesized a new antiviral agent (Bis-PMEA) that consists of two 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA) molecules bound by a phosphate bridge. This nucleotide analogue, like the parent compound PMEA, has strong and selective activity against HIV-1 and HSV-1. A drug-targeting system previously developed in our laboratory was used for the selective delivery of these drugs to macrophages. Bis-PMEA and PMEA were encapsulated into autologous erythrocytes by a procedure of hypotonic dialysis and isotonic resealing. Loaded erythrocytes were modified to increase their recognition and phagocytosis by human macrophages. By administering Bis-PMEA-loaded erythrocytes to macrophages, 47% of Bis-PMEA and 28% of PMEA was still present 10 days after phagocytosis; in contrast, only 12% of PMEA was found in macrophages receiving PMEA-loaded erythrocytes. Bis-PMEA-loaded erythrocytes were then added to macrophages infected with HIV-1 and HSV-1 and their antiviral activity evaluated. Remarkable protection was obtained against HIV-1 and HSV-1 infection (95 and 85%, respectively). Therefore, Bis-PMEA acts as an efficient antiviral prodrug that, following selective targeting to macrophages by means of loaded erythrocytes, can protect a refractory cell compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rossi
- Institute of Biochemistry G. Fornaini, University of Urbino, 61029 Urbino, Italy
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17
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Franchetti P, Rossi L, Cappellacci L, Pasqualini M, Grifantini M, Balestra E, Forbici F, Perno CF, Serafini S, Magnani M. Inhibition of HIV-1 replication in macrophages by red blood cell-mediated delivery of a heterodinucleotide of azidothymidine and 9-(R)-2-(phosphono methoxypropyl)adenine. Antivir Chem Chemother 2001; 12:151-9. [PMID: 12959323 DOI: 10.1177/095632020101200302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocyte-derived macrophages (M/M) are considered important in vivo reservoirs for different kinds of viruses, including HIV. Hence, therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to protect these cells from virus infection or to control viral replication. In this paper, we report the synthesis, target delivery and in vitro efficacy of a new heterodinucleotide (AZTpPMPA), able to inhibit HIV-1 production in human macrophages. AZTpPMPA consists of two established anti-HIV drugs [zidovudine (AZT) and tenofovir (PMPA)] chemically coupled together by a phosphate bridge. This drug is not able to prevent p24 production when administered for 18 h to M/M experimentally infected with HIV-1 Bal (inhibition 27%), but can almost completely suppress virus production when given encapsulated into autologous erythrocytes (inhibition of p24 production 97%). AZTpPMPA is slowly converted to PMPA, AZT monophosphate and AZT (36 h half-life at 37 degrees C) by cell-resident enzymes. Thus AZTpPMPA should be considered a new prodrug of AZT and PMPA that is able to provide stechiometric amounts of both nucleoside analogues to macrophage cells and to overcome the low phosphorylating activity of M/M for AZT and the modest permeability of PMPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Franchetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università di Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
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18
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Franchetti P, Abu Sheikha G, Cappellacci L, Marchetti S, Grifantini M, Balestra E, Perno C, Benatti U, Brandi G, Rossi L, Magnani M. A new acyclic heterodinucleotide active against human immunodeficiency virus and herpes simplex virus. Antiviral Res 2000; 47:149-58. [PMID: 10974367 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-3542(00)00101-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The most common therapies against human herpes virus (HSV-1) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infectivity are based on the administration of nucleoside analogues. Acyclovir (ACV) is the drug of choice against HSV-1 infection, while the acyclic nucleoside phosphonate analogue PMPA has shown marked anti-HIV activity in a phase I and II clinical studies. As monocyte-derived macrophages are assumed to be important as reservoirs of both HSV-1 and HIV-1 infection, new approaches able to inhibit replication of both viruses in macrophages should be welcome. ACVpPMPA, a new heterodinucleotide consisting of both an antiherpetic and an antiretroviral drug bound by a phosphate bridge, was synthesized and encapsulated into autologous erythrocytes modified to increase their phagocytosis by human macrophages. ACVpPMPA-loaded erythrocytes provided an effective in vitro protection against both HSV-1 and HIV-1 replication in human macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Franchetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università di Camerino, 62032, Camerino, Italy.
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19
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Aquaro S, Panti S, Caroleo MC, Balestra E, Cenci A, Forbici F, Ippolito G, Mastino A, Testi R, Mollace V, Caliò R, Perno CF. Primary macrophages infected by human immunodeficiency virus trigger CD95-mediated apoptosis of uninfected astrocytes. J Leukoc Biol 2000; 68:429-35. [PMID: 10985261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection of macrophages (M/M) by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a main pathogenetic event leading to neuronal dysfunction and death in patients with AIDS dementia complex. Alteration of viability of neurons and astrocytes occurs in vivo even without their infection, thus it is conceivable that HIV-infected M/M may affect viability of such cells even without direct infection. To assess this hypothesis, we studied the effects of HIV-infected M/M on an astrocytic cell-line lacking CD4-receptor expression. Exposure to supernatants of HIV-infected M/M triggers complete disruption and apoptotic death of astrocytic cells. This effect is not related to HIV transmission from infected M/M, because HIV-DNA and p24 production in astrocytic cells remained negative. Apoptotic death of astrocytes is mainly mediated by Fas ligand released in supernatants of HIV-infected M/M (as demonstrated by complete reversal of such phenomenon by adding neutralizing antibodies against CD95 receptor). Treatment of astrocytic cells with recombinant (biologically active) Tat induces < 10% apoptosis, and gp120 was totally ineffective. Treatment of HIV-infected M/M with AZT completely reverses the proapoptotic effect of their supernatants on astrocytes, thus demonstrating that productive virus replication within M/M is required for the induction of astrocytic cell death. Taken together, data suggest that homeostasis of astrocytes may be affected by HIV-infected M/M in the absence of productive infection of target cells. This phenomenon may help to explain the cellular damage found in HIV-infected patients also in areas of the brain not strictly adjacent to HIV-infected M/M.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Aquaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
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20
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Feige K, Eser MW, Geissbühler U, Balestra E, Metzler K. [Clinical symptoms of and diagnostic possibilities for hypophyseal adenoma in horses]. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 2000; 142:49-54. [PMID: 10697998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Hirsutism was the most often observed symptom in horses with a pituitary gland tumor and was present in all 13 examined horses. Other symptoms were atrophy of muscles (n = 10), hyperhidrosis (n = 8), polyuria/polydipsia (n = 5), bulging or supraorbital fat (n = 3), polyphagia (n = 2), apathy (n = 2) and seizures (n = 2). Laminitis was the most frequently observed concurrent disease (n = 8). Hyperglycaemia (mean, 9.9 +/- 3.71 mmol/l) in 13 horses and glucosuria (median, 55 [range, 2-55] mmol/l) in 7 horses were the most important laboratory results. The dexamethasone suppression test was positive in all tested horses (n = 9) 20 h after administration of dexamethasone. The pituitary gland tumor was visible in every case underwent computed tomography (n = 7). From these results it can be concluded that a pituitary gland tumor can be suspected based on typical clinical signs. Hyperglycaemia and glucosuria support the preliminary diagnosis and a positive dexamethasone suppression test allows a final diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Feige
- Klinik für Wiederkäuer- und Pferdemedizin, Universität Zürich
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21
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Franchetti P, Abu Sheikha G, Cappellacci L, Grifantini M, Balestra E, Perno CF, Brandi G, Rossi L, Magnani M. Synthesis and biological application of a new heterodinucleotide with both anti-HSV and anti-HIV activity. Nucleosides Nucleotides 1999; 18:989-90. [PMID: 10432727 DOI: 10.1080/15257779908041624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A new antiviral drug with both anti-HSV and anti-HIV activity was synthesized by coupling Acyclovir and the acyclic nucleoside phosphonate (R)PMPA. The heterodinucleotide ACVpPMPA encapsulated into autologous erythrocytes was added to human macrophages providing an effective in vitro protection from HSV-1 and HIV-1 replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Franchetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università di Camerino, Italy
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22
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Aquaro S, Caliò R, Balestra E, Bagnarelli P, Cenci A, Bertoli A, Tavazzi B, Di Pierro D, Francesconi M, Abdelahad D, Perno CF. Clinical implications of HIV dynamics and drug resistance in macrophages. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 1998; 12:23-7. [PMID: 9689575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are widely recognized as the second major target of HIV in the body. The cellular characteristics of such resting cells markedly affect the dynamics of virus lifecycle, that is slower but far more prolonged that in lymphocytes. In addition, the limited concentrations of endogenous nucleotide pools in macrophages downregulate the enzymatic activity of reverse transcriptase. As a consequence, both the anti-HIV activity and the development of resistance to antiviral drugs in macrophages are substantially different than those found in activated lymphocytes. These peculiar characteristics of virus replication and efficacy of antiviral drugs in macrophages have a natural in vivo counterpart in extralymphoid tissues, where macrophages account for the majority of cells infected by HIV. Furthermore, the replication of HIV in macrophages of testis and central nervous system is far less affected by antiviral drugs than in lymph nodes, because of the presence of natural barriers that markedly diminish the concentration of such drugs. For all these reasons, HIV infection of macrophages should be taken into account in therapeutic strategies aimed to achieve an optimal therapeutic effect in all tissue compartments where the virus hides and replicates.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Aquaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Italy
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23
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Rossi L, Brandi G, Schiavano GF, Balestra E, Millo E, Scarfi S, Damonte G, Gasparini A, Magnani M, Perno CF, Benatti U, De Flora A. Macrophage protection against human immunodeficiency virus or herpes simplex virus by red blood cell-mediated delivery of a heterodinucleotide of azidothymidine and acyclovir. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 1998; 14:435-44. [PMID: 9546803 DOI: 10.1089/aid.1998.14.435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human herpesvirus (HSVs) are distributed worldwide and are among the most frequent causes of viral infection in HIV-1-immunocompromised patients. Hence, therapeutic strategies able to inhibit HSV-1 and HIV-1 replication are sorely needed. Until now, the most common therapies against HSV-1 and HIV-1 infectivity have been based on the administration of nucleoside analogs; however, to be active, these antiviral drugs must be converted to their triphosphorylated derivatives by viral and/or cellular kinases. At the cellular level, the main problems involved in the use of such drugs are their limited phosphorylation in some cells (e.g., antiretroviral drugs in macrophages) and the cytotoxic side effects of nucleoside analog triphosphates. To overcome these limitations, a new heterodinucleotide (AZTp2ACV) consisting of both an antiretroviral and an antiherpetic drug, bound by a pyrophosphate bridge, was designed and synthesized. The impermeant AZTp2ACV was encapsulated into autologous erythrocytes modified to increase their recognition and phagocytosis by human macrophages. Once inside macrophages, metabolic activation of the drug occurred. The addition of AZTp2ACV-loaded erythrocytes to human macrophages provided effective and almost complete in vitro protection from HIV-1 and HSV-1 replications, respectively. Therefore, AZTp2ACV acts as an efficient antiviral prodrug following selective targeting to macrophages by means of loaded erythrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rossi
- Institute of Biochemistry G. Fornaini, University of Urbino, Italy
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24
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Aquaro S, Balestra E, Panti S, Cenci A, Serra F, Francesconi M, Abdelahad D, Caliò R, Perno CF. [Correlation between HIV-inhibiting drug activity in human macrophages and clinical outcome]. Clin Ter 1998; 149:37-41. [PMID: 9621487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the comparative efficacy of drugs inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in human macrophages and lymphocytes, and to correlate the results with the clinical outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Human primary macrophages and lymphocytes were infected with HIV in the presence of the following HIV inhibitors, all currently in clinical use: zidovudine, stavudine, zalcitabine, didanosine, lamivudine, PMEA, PMPA (all inhibitors of HIV reverse transcriptase), saquinavir and U-75875 (inhibitors of HIV protease). RESULTS All reverse transcriptase inhibitors tested showed a markedly higher antiviral activity in macrophages than in lymphocytes. Also protease inhibitors have a substantial anti-HIV activity in macrophages, yet their efficacy is markedly diminished if the drugs are added to macrophage culture after HIV, that is when the virus has established a chronical infection. Under these experimental conditions, however, only protease inhibitors among all HIV-inhibitors in clinical use are able to decrease virus replication in chronically-infected macrophages. CONCLUSIONS The results have strong clinical implications, due to the important role of macrophages in the pathogenesis of HIV infection. Macrophages are the major source of HIV at extralymphoid tissue levels, particularly in the central nervous system, where the blood-brain barrier strongly limits the penetration of antiviral drugs. For these reasons, only drugs, like stavudine and zidovudine, provided with good anti-HIV activity in macrophages, and reasonable barrier penetration have substantial chances to be effective in the central nervous system, and thus affect virus replication in a sanctuary where HIV hides and replicates out of the control of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Aquaro
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Scienze Biochimiche, Università Tor Vergata, Roma, Italia
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25
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Aquaro S, Perno CF, Balestra E, Balzarini J, Cenci A, Francesconi M, Panti S, Serra F, Villani N, Caliò R. Inhibition of replication of HIV in primary monocyte/macrophages by different antiviral drugs and comparative efficacy in lymphocytes. J Leukoc Biol 1997; 62:138-43. [PMID: 9226005 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.62.1.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Several anti-HIV drugs acting on different steps of virus replication were tested in our experimental model of primary monocyte/macrophages; the results were compared with the activity found in lymphocytes. Nucleoside analogues (AZT, ddI, ddC, d4T, PMEA, 3TC etc.) show greater activity in macrophages (M/M) than in lymphocytes. In particular, the EC50 of AZT, ddC, and ddI in M/M is 2- to 100-fold lower than that found in lymphocytes. This greater efficacy of nucleoside analogues in M/M depends on the enhancement of their chain-terminating activity by the low levels of endogenous deoxynucleoside-triphosphates (dNTP) usually found in resting cells such as M/M. Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) do not act as chain terminators (thus their antiviral effect is not related to the intracellular concentrations of dNTP); as a consequence the activity of TSAO, HEPT, TIBO, and other NNRTI tested in M/M is similar to that found in lymphocytes. Regarding inhibitors of binding and fusion of HIV, we found that their anti-HIV activity is markedly decreased (or even nullified) when M/M are treated with cytokine activators of M/M function and enhancers of HIV replication. More relevant from a clinical standpoint, protease inhibitors are able to inhibit HIV replication in chronically infected macrophages (i.e., cells carrying the proviral genome already integrated in the host genome). All other inhibitors of late stage of virus life cycle tested (antisense-rev, anti-tat, interferon-alpha and -gamma, phosphorothioate analogues, GLQ-223, etc.) were totally inactive in chronically infected macrophages. The different effects of various classes of HIV inhibitors in lymphocytes and macrophages suggests that AIDS therapy should consider all aspects of the pathogenesis of HIV infection and must be restricted to drugs, or combinations of drugs, active against both lymphocytes and M/M in all body compartments where the virus hides and replicates.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Aquaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
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26
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Perno CF, Aquaro S, Cenci A, Menzo S, Clementi M, Monque D, Balestra E, Caliò R. Development of resistance to anti-HIV drugs in primary macrophages. Antiviral Res 1997. [DOI: 10.1016/s0166-3542(97)83198-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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27
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Perno CF, Aquaro S, Panti S, Balestra E, Caroleo MC, Mastino A, Cenci A, Caliò R. AZT treatment of HIV-1-infected macrophages prevents apoptosis and necrosis in human astrocytic cells. Antiviral Res 1997. [DOI: 10.1016/s0166-3542(97)83164-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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28
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Perno CF, Santoro N, Balestra E, Aquaro S, Cenci A, Lazzarino G, Di Pierro D, Tavazzi B, Balzarini J, Garaci E, Grimaldi S, Caliò R. Red blood cells mediated delivery of 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine to primary macrophages: efficiency metabolism and activity against human immunodeficiency virus or herpes simplex virus. Antiviral Res 1997; 33:153-64. [PMID: 9037372 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-3542(96)01011-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Red blood cells (RBC) may act as selective carriers of drugs to macrophages, an important reservoir of viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). We therefore assessed the incorporation of 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA), a potent inhibitor of HIV and HSV-1) into RBC, its delivery to macrophages and its activity against HIV or HSV-1. Loading of PMEA in artificially aged opsonized RBC affords significant levels of intracellular PMEA. RBC metabolize PMEA to its active congener PMEA-diphosphate, although with low efficiency. Exposure of macrophages to RBC-encapsulated PMEA inhibits the replication of both HIV and HSV-1 (about 90% inhibition at the highest RBC:macrophages ratios) even if RBC were removed before virus challenge. By contrast, the antiviral activity of free PMEA removed before virus challenge was irrelevant at concentrations up to 150-fold higher than the 50% effective concentration (EC50). Finally, the antiviral effect of RBC-encapsulated PMEA correlates with PMEA levels in macrophages about 500-fold higher than those achieved by free PMEA (at concentrations 10-fold higher than the EC50). The efficacy of RBC-mediated delivery to macrophages of PMEA (and perhaps of compounds with shorter intracellular half-lives) warrants further studies in infectious diseases involving phagocytizing cells as main targets of the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- C F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
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29
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Aquaro S, Balestra E, Cenci A, Francesconi M, Caliò R, Perno CF. HIV infection in macrophage: role of long-lived cells and related therapeutical strategies. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 1997; 11:69-73. [PMID: 9418167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutical strategies aimed to the maximal inhibition (if not the eradication) of infection by human immunodeficiency virus should take into account the issue of the viral reservoir in the body. Recent data clearly show that latently infected lymphocytes represent a minimal part of the viral reservoir, while the majority of these cells are macrophages (variably differentiated) scattered in the tissues and lymph nodes. Immunologically-sequestred areas, such as the central nervous system, are particularly relevant in view of the different concentrations of antiviral drugs achieved in the organs. Thus, a careful analysis of the distribution of antiviral drugs, and the assessment of their activity in cells of macrophage lineage, represent key factors in the development of therapeutical strategies aimed to the "cure" of infectious patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Aquaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Italy
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30
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Perno CF, Balestra E, Aquaro S, Panti S, Cenci A, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Di Pierro D, Balzarini J, Calio R. Potent inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus and herpes simplex virus type 1 by 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine in primary macrophages is determined by drug metabolism, nucleotide pools, and cytokines. Mol Pharmacol 1996; 50:359-66. [PMID: 8700144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA) against the replication of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and its cellular metabolism were investigated in human primary macrophages from seronegative donors. PMEA potently inhibited the replication of both HIV and HSV-1 in macrophages, with similar EC50 values (0.025 and 0.032 microM, respectively), whereas the EC50 values of PMEA in lymphocytic C8166 cells and fibroblastoid Vero cells were 150-200-fold higher (3.5 and 7.9 microM, respectively). Granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor and macrophage colony-stimulating factor, two cytokine enhancers of the replication of HIV (and HSV-1), decreased the activity of PMEA against both viruses, yet EC50 values were still lower than in lymphocytes and fibroblasts. Thus, the selectivity index of PMEA in macrophages was > 2 orders of magnitude higher than that in lymphocytes and fibroblasts and still > 1 log higher under conditions of enhancement of virus replication in macrophages. The intracellular levels of 2'-deoxyadenosine-5'-triphosphate, the natural competitor of PMEA-diphosphate at the level of viral DNA polymerase (either RNA or DNA dependent), were 5-12-fold lower in macrophages than in other cells. Furthermore, intracellular concentrations of PMEA-diphosphate (the active metabolite of PMEA) were unusually much higher in macrophages (with or without cytokines) than in lymphocytes and fibroblasts. Consequently, the ratio of PMEA-diphosphate to 2'-deoxyadenosine-5'-triphosphate in monocytes/macrophages was approximately 2 orders of magnitude higher in macrophages than in the other cells and correlated closely with the pronounced antiviral potency of PMEA. The dual potent activity of PMEA against HIV and HSV-1 stresses the importance of clinical trials to assess the role of this drug in the therapy of HIV-related disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- C F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
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31
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Di Pierro D, Tavazzi B, Perno CF, Bartolini M, Balestra E, Caliò R, Giardina B, Lazzarino G. An ion-pairing high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the direct simultaneous determination of nucleotides, deoxynucleotides, nicotinic coenzymes, oxypurines, nucleosides, and bases in perchloric acid cell extracts. Anal Biochem 1995; 231:407-12. [PMID: 8594993 DOI: 10.1006/abio.1995.0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
An ion-pairing high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the direct and simultaneous determination of nucleotides, deoxynucleotides, cAMP, nicotinic coenzymes, oxypurines, nucleosides, and bases in perchloric acid cell extracts is presented. By using an Alltima C-18, 250 x 4.6-mm, 5-microns particle size column, a high resolution of 38 acid-soluble compounds, including ATP, GTP, dTTP, CTP, UTP, ADP, GDP, dTDP, CDP, UDP, dATP, dGTP, dCTP, dUTP, dADP, dGDP, dCDP, dUDP, and cAMP, is obtained. Elution is performed with a step gradient from buffer A (consisting of 10 mM tetrabutylammonium hydroxide, 10 mM KH2PO4, 0.25% methanol, pH 7.00) to buffer B (consisting of 2.8 mM tetrabutylammonium hydroxide, 100 mM KH2PO4, 30% methanol, pH 5.50). Perchloric acid extracts of resting and phytohemagglutinin-stimulated human lymphocytes were analyzed. Data indicate that this chromatographic method offers, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, the possibility of simultaneously determining di- and triphosphate nucleosides and their corresponding deoxynucleosides without any chemical manipulation of samples except for perchloric acid deproteinization. Hence, the present HPLC assay minimizes the risks of modification or loss of metabolite concentration and allows one to obtain, with a single chromatographic run, the complete pattern of those metabolites which are known to be involved in energy metabolism and in DNA and RNA synthesis, resulting therefore of great advantage in cell biology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Di Pierro
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
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Palamara AT, Perno CF, Ciriolo MR, Dini L, Balestra E, D'Agostini C, Di Francesco P, Favalli C, Rotilio G, Garaci E. Evidence for antiviral activity of glutathione: in vitro inhibition of herpes simplex virus type 1 replication. Antiviral Res 1995; 27:237-53. [PMID: 8540746 DOI: 10.1016/0166-3542(95)00008-a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The role of glutathione (GSH) in the in vitro infection and replication of human herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) was investigated. Intracellular endogenous GSH levels dramatically decreased in the first 24 h after virus adsorption, starting immediately after virus challenge. The addition of exogenous GSH was not only able to restore its intracellular levels almost up to those found in uninfected cells, but also to inhibit > 99% the replication of HSV-1. This inhibition was concentration-dependent, not related to toxic effects on host cells and also maintained if the exogenous GSH was added as late as 24 h after virus challenge, i.e. when virus infection was fully established. Electron microscopic examination of HSV-1-infected cells showed that GSH dramatically reduced the number of extracellular and intracytoplasmic virus particles, whereas some complete nucleocapsids were still detected within the nuclei of GSH-treated cells. Consistent with this observation, immunoblot analysis showed that the expression of HSV-1-glycoprotein B, crucial for the release and the infectivity of virus particles, was significantly decreased. Data suggest that exogenous GSH inhibits the replication of HSV-1 by interfering with very late stages of the virus life cycle, without affecting cellular metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- A T Palamara
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
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33
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Mioli VA, Balestra E, Bibiano L, Dellabella S, Fanciulli E, Gaffi G, Perilli A, Petroselli F, Ricciatti AM, Carletti P. Behavior of beta 2-microglobulin (B2-m) serum levels in uremic patients. Int J Artif Organs 1994; 17:576-80. [PMID: 7744516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This study was performed in 97 hemodialysis patients (85 on HD and 12 on CAPD) to investigate the possible correlation between B2-m and hemodialysis-related amyloidosis syndromes (HRA-S); differences in B2-m and HRA behavior between patients hemodialysed with cellulose and synthetic membranes were also included in the present study. Data indicate that B2-m levels are not correlated with dialysis length or with the type of membrane used for the dialysis. On the contrary, in 16 patients with the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, a significant correlation was found between the CTS, the dialysis length and the type of membrane (greater incidence with cellulosic membranes).
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Mioli
- Nephrological and Dialysis Department, Umberto 1st University Hospital, Torrette di Ancona, Italy
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34
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Villani N, Caliò R, Balestra E, Balzarini J, De Clercq E, Fabrizi E, Perno CF, Del Gobbo V. 9-(2-Phosphonylmethoxyethyl) adenine increases the survival of influenza virus-infected mice by an enhancement of the immune system. Antiviral Res 1994; 25:81-9. [PMID: 7847879 DOI: 10.1016/0166-3542(94)90098-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PMEA (9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine) is a potent inhibitor of DNA viruses and retroviruses able to enhance natural immune functions such as natural killer cell activity and interferon production. The results reported in this paper show that the treatment with PMEA significatively decreased the mortality of mice challenged with influenza A/PR8 virus (an RNA virus, non sensitive to the antiviral effect of PMEA) compared to untreated, infected controls (median survival 8.64 days and 7.61 days, respectively), and reduced lung weight and consolidation (two surrogate markers of virus infection). Furthermore, virus titer obtained from lung homogenates was substantially decreased in PMEA-treated mice compared to controls. Finally, enhancement of natural killer cell activity was achieved in PMEA-treated A/PR8-infected mice compared to A/PR8-infected controls. Overall, results suggest that PMEA decreases the influenza virus-related mortality and morbidity through the enhancement of some immune functions, and that this effect might be additive or even synergystic with the direct inhibitory effect of DNA viruses or retroviruses induced by PMEA itself. This supports the importance of evaluating this drug in patients with diseases related to herpesviruses or to human immunodeficiency virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Villani
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Italy
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35
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Perno CF, Aquaro S, Rosenwirth B, Balestra E, Peichl P, Billich A, Villani N, Caliò R. In vitro activity of inhibitors of late stages of the replication of HIV in chronically infected macrophages. J Leukoc Biol 1994; 56:381-6. [PMID: 8083612 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.56.3.381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the importance of macrophages in the pathogenesis of the disease caused by HIV, we investigated the efficacy of various anti-HIV drugs in human primary macrophages acutely or chronically infected by this virus. The results obtained for acutely infected macrophages show that dideoxynucleosides (AZT, ddI, and ddC), interferon-alpha and -gamma, mismatched double-stranded RNA, Tat inhibitor, phosphorothioate antisense, and inhibitors of HIV protease, all significantly inhibit virus replication at concentrations far below those toxic for the cells. However, in macrophages in which proviral DNA is already integrated (chronically infected macrophages), only the three inhibitors of HIV protease induced significant virus inhibition at concentrations 100 or more times higher than those effective in acutely infected macrophages. Treatment of macrophages with macrophage colony-stimulating factor does not affect the anti-HIV efficacy of protease inhibitors. These results suggest that therapeutic strategies with activity for macrophages, including inhibitors of HIV protease, are worth pursuing in patients with HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- C F Perno
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
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36
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Caliò R, Villani N, Balestra E, Sesa F, Holy A, Balzarini J, De Clercq E, Perno CF, Del Gobbo V. Enhancement of natural killer activity and interferon induction by different acyclic nucleoside phosphonates. Antiviral Res 1994; 23:77-89. [PMID: 7511362 DOI: 10.1016/0166-3542(94)90034-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Acyclic nucleoside phosphonate (ANP) analogues are a class of compounds with potent activity against herpesviruses and/or retroviruses. Our preliminary experiments have shown that 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA), a prototype of the ANP family, enhances some parameters of natural immunity. In this paper we have evaluated the effect of different schedules of administration of PMEA and other ANP analogues of clinical interest upon natural killer (NK) activity and interferon (IFN) production in a mouse model. The results show that PMEA significantly enhances NK activity and interferon production. Other ANP analogues tested in our system, i.e., 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)-2,6-diaminopurine (PMEDAP), and 9-(3-fluoro-2-phosphonylmethoxypropyl)adenine (FPMPA), similarly induced enhancement of natural immunity. The immunomodulating effect of PMEA was even more pronounced with a single administration compared to repeated administrations of the drug. Dose-dependent enhancement of NK activity and IFN production could also be demonstrated during chronic administration of PMEA (more resembling to what will be the schedule of administration of this drug in patients). Overall, the data here presented suggest that the enhancement of some natural immune functions induced by ANP analogues may add to the direct antiviral activity of these drugs against retroviruses and herpesviruses, and thus may be able to increase the host resistance against viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Caliò
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Scienze Biochimiche, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Italy
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37
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Mioli VA, Balestra E, Bibiano L, Carletti P, Della Bella S, Fanciulli E, Gaffi G, Marinelli R, Perilli R, Ricciatti AM. Epidemiology of viral hepatitis in dialysis centers: a national survey. Nephron Clin Pract 1992; 61:278-83. [PMID: 1386900 DOI: 10.1159/000186905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of the great problem of viral hepatitis in hemodialysis patients, the Italian Society of Nephrology decided to perform a national epidemiologic survey. We contacted 467 nephrological centers by a questionnaire which let us have information on 25,746 uremic patients: 18,338 on HD, 2,250 on PD and 5,176 with kidney transplant, respectively 78.5% of the total Italian dialysed patients and 91.4% of the total transplanted patients. Statistical analyses were performed. HBV infections occur in 7.8% of the patients (2,008 cases) but considering that 485 cases became spontaneously negative, the true overall incidence of chronic carriers falls to 4.9%. The main causes of the infection are reported as transfusions (64.3%) and dialysis environment (12%). The vaccination program performed by 93.2% of the centers, obtained an efficacious seroconversion in 4,626 of 7,790 cases vaccinated: the vaccine currently most utilized is the recombinant type administered by means of 3 versus 4 boosters. In the 2nd part of the survey, we report information concerning the presence of nephropaties associated with HBV infections in nonuremic patients (208 cases). We present and discuss the clinical picture of the nephropaties, the hystologic bioptic pattern and the prognosis of the kidney pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Mioli
- Nephrological Department University Hospital Torrette, Ancona, Italy
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38
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Balestra E, Gaetani S, Gazzerro C, Derchi L. [Sacral agenesis. The clinical and radiological aspects in one case]. Radiol Med 1991; 82:683-5. [PMID: 1780471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Balestra
- Servizio di Radiologia, Ospedale S. Martino, Genova
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39
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Del Gobbo V, Foli A, Balzarini J, De Clercq E, Balestra E, Villani N, Marini S, Perno CF, Calio R. Immunomodulatory activity of 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA), a potent anti-HIV nucleotide analogue, on in vivo murine models. Antiviral Res 1991; 16:65-75. [PMID: 1723264 DOI: 10.1016/0166-3542(91)90059-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In order to evaluate the influence of antiviral nucleoside analogues upon the natural immune system, we investigated the immunomodulatory activity of 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA), a nucleotide analogue with potent anti-HIV and anti-herpes activity, in a murine system. C57BL/6 mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with 10, 25 and 50 mg PMEA/kg. Mononuclear cells were isolated from their spleens, and some natural immune functions were evaluated. The results show that PMEA significantly increases the levels of natural killer (NK)-cell cytotoxicity. We also found that alpha/beta IFN production was substantially increased in PMEA-treated mice, while both IL-1 and IL-2 production was decreased. Thus, PMEA can increase some natural immunity functions, such as NK activity and IFN production. These results suggest that PMEA might be active in vivo against HIV and herpes viruses both as an immunomodulator and as an antiviral compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Del Gobbo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, II University of Rome, Italy
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40
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Tulli D, Palermo R, Gasparini M, Ganzetti S, Balestra E, Conti V. [Cardiovascular involvement and relative risk factors in systemic sclerosis. Personal contribution]. Minerva Med 1990; 81:583-6. [PMID: 2234476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In systemic sclerosis (SS), cardiovascular commitment was recorded in an autopsy series, in widely different percentages, from 12 to 81%. On the other hand, clinical diagnosis of cardiopathy is made in far fewer cases. In addition, the coexistence of renal and/or pulmonary commitment makes difficult separation between primary and secondary heart damage. In 22 patients (2 m, 20 f) aged between 34 and 75 (average 55 +/- 11) with SS, a study has been made of the a) prevalence of cardiovascular commitment; b) the significance of the classic risk factors; c) the erythrocyte filtration time or TF (index of microangiopathic damage). Metabolic stability, fibrinogen, haematocrit and TF (Reid et al. method) were assessed in each patient. Nine patients (40.9%) presented ischaemic cardiopathy (myocardial infarction in three and effort angina in six), one (4.5%) presented hypertensive cardiopathy. Conduction disturbances were observed in five patients (22.7%). Whereas a statistically significant increase in TF was observed in cardiopaths, no differences in plasma levels of glucose, cholesterol or fibrinogen were observed. The incidence of smoking and the familial factor were also insignificant.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Tulli
- Università degli Studi di Ancona, U.S.L. n. 10, Iesi
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41
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Palermo R, Tulli D, Moretti S, Balestra E, Pratillo G, Conti V. [The use of dynamic electrocardiographic monitoring in scleroderma patients]. Minerva Cardioangiol 1990; 38:199-203. [PMID: 2234450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A comparative analysis of arrhythmias by "basal" electrocardiogram (ECG) and by continuous 24-hour Holter electrocardiogram monitoring was performed in 17 patients with systemic sclerosis (16 women and one man). Our study confirms that rhythm disturbances are better detectable using Holter monitoring. In fact, no patients had ventricular arrhythmias detected by ECG; on the contrary, Holter monitoring revealed ventricular arrhythmias in nine patients (53.3%). This method also revealed a ventricular tachycardia, not detected by ECG. In two patients ventricular repolarisation abnormalities without symptoms was revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Palermo
- Servizio UTIC USL n. 10 di Jesi, Ancona
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42
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Del Gobbo V, Villani N, Marini S, Balestra E, Caliò R. Suppressor cells induced by influenza virus inhibit interleukin-2 production in mice. Immunology 1990; 69:454-9. [PMID: 2138128 PMCID: PMC1385967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PR8 virus depressed interleukin-2 (IL-2) and natural killer (NK) cell activity in BALB/c infected mice. IL-2 production was not dependent on (i) a decreased number of T cells or (ii) a primary defect in IL-1 production, but on a T-suppressor cell subpopulation. In fact, when T suppressor cells were removed from infected spleen cells, we observed normal levels of IL-2 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Del Gobbo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, II University of Rome, Italy
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43
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Affiliation(s)
- V Del Gobbo
- Department of Experimental Medicine II University of Rome
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44
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Ramello P, Balestra E, Berghella S, Tempo B. [Study of malpositions as complications of venous central catheterization and related events]. Minerva Anestesiol 1988; 54:199-205. [PMID: 3221994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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45
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Casaccia M, Balestra E, Valente U. [So-called panniculitis of omentum and mesenterium]. Radiol Med 1969; 55:1162-74. [PMID: 5201386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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46
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Accarpio G, Balestra E, Faggioni A. [Differential diagnostic considerations on an unusual case of stenosis of the colon]. Minerva Radiol 1969; 14:517-21. [PMID: 5383672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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47
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Balestra E. [Tomography in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary tumors]. Radiol Med 1969; 55:526-38. [PMID: 5204668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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48
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Prior C, Balestra E, Valente U. [Further observations on potentiated cholangiography]. MINERVA CHIR 1969; 24:577-80. [PMID: 5385428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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49
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Balestra E. [Dorso-ventral projection with cranio caudal inclination in the study of the sigmoid and rectum]. Quad Radiol 1969; 34:247-61. [PMID: 5362796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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50
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Cariati E, Balestra E. [The utilization of lymph-node tomography after lymphangiography in the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis]. MINERVA CHIR 1969; 24:372-6. [PMID: 5790465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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