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Rottura M, Drago SFA, Molonia A, Irrera N, Marino S, Scoglio R, Orlando L, Gigliotti De Fazio M, Squadrito F, Arcoraci V, Imbalzano E. Prescriptive behavior of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants in patients affected by atrial fibrillation in general practice. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115020. [PMID: 37352701 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115020] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide and in recent years the pharmacological approach has been strongly implemented; in Italy, the prescription of the non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOAC) was also extended to General Practitioners (GPs) since 2020. The aim of the present study was to investigate the GPs prescribing behaviour of NOACs. An observational study was performed by using the computerized medical record of 14 GPs in Sicily: patients affected by AF were selected and stratified according to the prescribed antithrombotic drugs. Patients were considered inadequately managed if antithrombotic treatment was not adherent to recent ESC guidelines. A total of 467 (2.7 %) patients were affected by AF, 276 (59.1 %) were treated with an oral anticoagulant (OAC) regardless the high stroke risk (OR 1.64; 95 %CI 0.74-3.62; p = 0.226). The NOAC users were 236 patients as follow: Rivaroxaban 33.5 %, Apixaban 33,1 %, Dabigatran 17,4 %, Edoxaban 16.1 %. In 7 patients an inappropriate NOAC treatment was observed. Among Vitamin-K antagonist users, 25.0 % were considered inappropriate. Patients not treated with OAC were 191, of them 81.7 % were at high stroke risk and did not receive any OAC despite the indication to treat. In addition, the probability to be not properly managed significantly increased in older and in patients with atherosclerosis. Conversely, patients with at least one reported cardiology counselling significantly reduced the likelihood to be not properly managed (OR 0.38, 95 %CI 0.25-0.58; p 0.01). Our results suggest the need to optimize the management of real-life AF patients by improving prescribing adherence to ESC guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rottura
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - S F A Drago
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - A Molonia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - N Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - S Marino
- Italian Society of General Practice (SIMG), Messina, Italy
| | - R Scoglio
- Italian Society of General Practice (SIMG), Messina, Italy
| | - L Orlando
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - M Gigliotti De Fazio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - F Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - V Arcoraci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - E Imbalzano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
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Valenzise M, Nasso C, Scarfone A, Rottura M, Cafarella G, Pallio G, Visalli G, Di Prima E, Nasso E, Squadrito V, Wasniewska M, Irrera P, Arcoraci V, Squadrito F. Leuprolide and triptorelin treatment in children with idiopathic central precocious puberty: an efficacy/tolerability comparison study. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1170025. [PMID: 37266535 PMCID: PMC10229807 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1170025] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Central precocious puberty (CPP) results from premature activation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, with the consequent increase of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH); GnRH agonists (GnRHa) represent the gold-standard therapy in children with CPP although their use might be responsible for pituitary GnRH receptors down-regulation, that in turn suppresses luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and blocks of gonadal sex hormones release. The most prescribed GnRHa in the clinical practice are leuprolide and triptorelin, whose use is generally safe and well tolerated; however, mild menopausal-like side effects could appear. The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the efficacy and tolerability profile of leuprolide and triptorelin in CPP patients. Methods 110 girls affected by CPP were enrolled in this retrospective study, carried out from 2018 to 2020. The enrolled patients received leuprolide (n = 48) or triptorelin (n = 62). Efficacy was investigated by the means of clinical parameters and radiological changes and side effects were also recorded to evaluate the possible relationship between the two GnRHa treatments and side effects appearance. Results At baseline triptorelin patients had significantly higher LH and LH peak levels than leuprolide patients, whereas no significant difference in other patient characteristics was observed between the two groups. The leuprolide treatment lasted 971 days [790-1,171 days] while the duration of triptorelin administration was 792 days [760-1,003 days] (p < 0.001). Overall 46 (41.8%) of the studied patients reported mild menopausal-like symptoms: among these 27 were treated with triptorelin and 19 with leuprolide (p = 0.558). Patients treated with triptorelin, or leuprolide showed headache (27.4% vs. 16.7%), mood swings (12.9% vs. 16.7%), increased appetite (12.9% vs. 18.8%) and nausea (1.6% vs. 10.4%) respectively. Moreover, the onset of side effects appearance related to GnRHa therapy significantly reduces with the increase of the initial bone age (p = 0.038). Conclusion Leuprolide and triptorelin treatment appear to be effective and safe without significant difference between the two drugs in term of efficacy and tolerability, making both good options for treating CPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Valenzise
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - C. Nasso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - A. Scarfone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - M. Rottura
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G. Cafarella
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G. Pallio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G. Visalli
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - E. Di Prima
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - E. Nasso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - V. Squadrito
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - M. Wasniewska
- Department of Human Pathology and Evolutive Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - P. Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - V. Arcoraci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - F. Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Colangelo MT, Govoni P, Belletti S, Squadrito F, Guizzardi S, Galli C. Polynucleotide biogel enhances tissue repair, matrix deposition and organization. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2021; 35:355-362. [PMID: 33480222 DOI: 10.23812/20-320-l] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M T Colangelo
- Histology and Embryology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - P Govoni
- Histology and Embryology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - S Belletti
- Histology and Embryology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - F Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - S Guizzardi
- Histology and Embryology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Galli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Vaccaro M, Irrera N, Altavilla D, Squadrito F. L’activation du récepteur de l’adénosine par PDRN améliore le remodelage cutané dans un modèle expérimental de dermatite de type psoriasis. Ann Dermatol Venereol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annder.2017.09.338] [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: 11/28/2022]
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Carerj ML, Dudink EAMP, Cherubini A, Kammerlander A, Bieseviciene M, Argacha JF, Pratali L, Nagy AI, Zito C, Bitto A, Cusma Piccione ML, Longobardo L, D'angelo ML, Oreto L, Todaro MC, Costa F, Zucco MC, De Luca F, Calabro MP, Squadrito F, Di Bella G, Carerj S, Peeters FECM, Altintas S, Heckman LIB, Haest RJ, Kragten JA, Wildberger JE, Kietselaer BLJH, Weijs B, Crijns HJGM, Nistri S, Barbati G, Cioffi G, Faganello G, Russo G, Mazzone C, Negri F, Grande E, Pandullo C, Tarantini L, Casanova Borca E, Pontoni T, Fisicaro M, Di Lenarda A, Aschauer S, Zotter-Tufaro C, Duca F, Schwaiger ML, Dalos D, Schneider M, Marzluf BA, Bonderman D, Mascherbauer J, Vaskelyte JJ, Lesauskaite V, Mizariene V, Kupryte M, Jonkaitiene R, Verseckaite R, Wauters A, Droogmans S, Van De Borne P, Vachiery JL, Cosyns B, Giardini G, Bastiani L, Catuzzo B, Bruno RM, Picano E, Venkateshvaran AI, Merkely B, Lund LH, Manouras A. Rapid Fire Abstract: Great cardiac arteries pathology785Correlations between genetic mutations, biomolecular patterns and elastic properties of the aorta in patients with bicuspid aortic valve786The Agatston score of the descending aorta is an independent predictor of future coronary artery disease on top of coronary Agatston score in a low-risk population787Echocardiographic aortic size distribution and prognosis in outpatients without valvular heart disease788Prognostic relevance of the pulmonary artery diameter in relation to the ascending aorta789A dilative pathology of ascending aorta: interfaces between histological and echocardiographical features790Acute effects of air pollution on pulmonary hemodynamics: new evidences from both population and individual level studies791The dynamic assessment of alveolar-capillary barrier during sub-clinical high-altitude pulmonary edema792The influence of the V-wave on the diastolic pulmonary pressure gradient in pulmonary hypertension due to left heart disease. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jew252] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Messina S, Vita G, Licata N, Sframeli M, Bitto A, Distefano M, Barcellona C, Rosa ML, Romeo S, Ciranni A, Aguennouz M, Squadrito F, Vita G. G.P.100. Neuromuscul Disord 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2014.06.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Bagnato G, Bitto A, Irrera N, Pizzino G, Roberts W, Altavilla D, Squadrito F, Saitta A, Bagnato G. AB0198 Cilengitide Modulates Pulmonary Cell Proliferation in the Reactive Oxygen Species Murine Model of Systemic Sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2014. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-eular.5144] [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: 11/04/2022]
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Bagnato G, Bitto A, Pizzino G, Roberts W, Altavilla D, Squadrito F, Saitta A, Bagnato G. AB0197 Simvastatin Attenuates Aortic Thickness in the Chronic Reactive Oxygen Species Murine Model of Systemic Sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2014. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-eular.2465] [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: 11/04/2022]
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Atteritano M, Mazzaferro S, Bitto A, Cannata ML, D'Anna R, Squadrito F, Macrì I, Frisina A, Frisina N, Bagnato G. Genistein effects on quality of life and depression symptoms in osteopenic postmenopausal women: a 2-year randomized, double-blind, controlled study. Osteoporos Int 2014; 25:1123-9. [PMID: 24114397 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-013-2512-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY Postmenopausal estrogen decline is implicated in several age-related physical and psychological changes in women, including decreases in perceived quality of life. The phytoestrogen genistein at a dose of 54 mg daily in osteopenic postmenopausal women after 2 years implies an improvement on quality of life and depression symptoms. INTRODUCTION Postmenopausal estrogen decline is implicated in several age-related physical and psychological changes in women, including decreases in perceived quality of life (QoL). A number of trials with hormone therapy showed beneficial effects of the intervention on quality of life parameters. However, because of known or suspected serious side effects of conventional hormone therapy, there is a need for alternatives. METHODS We conducted a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial using the isoflavone genistein, 54 mg, or placebo for 2 years. In this trial, we recruited 262 postmenopausal women aged 49 to 67 years. RESULTS At baseline, after 1 year, and at final visit, participants filled in the Short Form of 36 questions (SF-36) and the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (ZSDS). For the placebo group, scores on all dimensions of the SF-36 decreased after 1 and 2 years. The genistein group showed increases on all dimensions of the SF-36 at the end of the study. There were, however, statistically significant differences in changes of scores between the two intervention groups. For the ZSDS, similarly, significant differences were found between groups. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the findings of this randomized trial showed that genistein improves quality of life (health status, life satisfaction, and depression) in osteopenic postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Atteritano
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Messina, Pad. C, 3rd floor, A.O.U. Policlinico "G. Martino" Via C. Valeria, 98125, Messina, Italy,
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Minutoli L, Irrera N, Squadrito F, Marini H, Nicotina PA, Arena S, Romeo C, Antonuccio P, Altavilla D. Effects of ischaemic post-conditioning on the early and late testicular damage after experimental testis ischaemia-reperfusion. Andrology 2013; 2:76-82. [PMID: 24282156 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00154.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ischaemic post-conditioning (IPostC) might represent an innovative surgical approach to protect organs from ischaemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury. We investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the contrasting effects of IPostC on the early and late damage induced by testicular I/R injury. Testis I/R was induced by occluding the right testicular vessels using a clip. Male rats were divided into the following groups: sham, I/R and I/R + IPostC. In the I/R group, the clip was removed after 60 min of ischaemia, and reperfusion was allowed for 30 min, 1 and 30 days. In the I/R + IPostC group, three cycles of 30-sec reperfusion and 30-sec ischaemia were performed after 60 min of ischaemia and then reperfusion followed up for 30 min, 1 and 30 days. Following 30-min reperfusion, there was an increase in mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in I/R rats; after 1 day of reperfusion, interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor-α and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) expression were significantly increased; IκB-α expression reduced; and a marked damage in both testes was observed. IPostC inhibited MAPKs, cytokines and NF-κB expression, augmented IκB-α expression and decreased histological damage in testes subjected to I/R. After 30 days of reperfusion, I/R injury activated the apoptosis machinery, caused severe histological damage and reduced spermatogenic activity. By contrast, IPostC did not modify the apoptotic markers, the histological alterations as well as spermatogenic activity following 30 days of reperfusion. Our data demonstrate that IPostC protects the testis from the early damage induced by I/R injury, but it does not protect against the late damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Bagnato G, Bitto A, Pizzino G, Irrera N, Sangari D, Cinquegrani M, Roberts WN, Matucci Cerinic M, Squadrito F, Altavilla D, Bagnato G, Saitta A. Simvastatin attenuates the development of pulmonary and cutaneous fibrosis in a murine model of systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2013; 52:1377-86. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ket144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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Minutoli L, Bitto A, Squadrito F, Marini H, Irrera N, Morgia G, Passantino A, Altavilla D. Serenoa Repens, Lycopene and Selenium: A Triple Therapeutic Approach to Manage Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Curr Med Chem 2013; 20:1306-12. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867311320100007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Revised: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Minutoli L, Bitto A, Squadrito F, Marini H, Irrera N, Morgia G, Passantino A, Altavilla D. Serenoa Repens, Lycopene and Selenium: A Triple Therapeutic Approach to Manage Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Curr Med Chem 2013. [DOI: 10.2174/09298673113208880015] [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: 11/22/2022]
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Altavilla D, Minutoli L, Polito F, Irrera N, Arena S, Magno C, Rinaldi M, Burnett BP, Squadrito F, Bitto A. Effects of flavocoxid, a dual inhibitor of COX and 5-lipoxygenase enzymes, on benign prostatic hyperplasia. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:95-108. [PMID: 22471974 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.01969.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Inflammation plays a key role in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Eicosanoids derived from the COX and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) pathways are elevated in the enlarging prostate. Flavocoxid is a novel flavonoid-based 'dual inhibitor' of the COX and 5-LOX enzymes. This study evaluated the effects of flavocoxid in experimental BPH. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Rats were treated daily with testosterone propionate (3 mg·kg(-1) s.c.) or its vehicle for 14 days to induce BPH. Animals receiving testosterone were randomized to receive vehicle (1 mL·kg(-1) , i.p.) or flavocoxid (20 mg·kg(-1) , i.p.) for 14 days. Histological changes, eicosanoid content and mRNA and protein levels for apoptosis-related proteins and growth factors were assayed in prostate tissue. The effects of flavocoxid were also tested on human prostate carcinoma PC3 cells. KEY RESULTS Flavocoxid reduced prostate weight and hyperplasia, blunted inducible expression of COX-2 and 5-LOX as well as the increased production of PGE(2) and leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4) ), enhanced pro-apoptotic Bax and caspase-9 and decreased the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 mRNA. Flavocoxid also reduced EGF and VEGF expression. In PC3 cells, flavocoxid stimulated apoptosis and inhibited growth factor expression. Flavocoxid-mediated induction of apoptosis was inhibited by the pan-caspase inhibitor, Z-VAD-FMK, in PC3 cells, suggesting an essential role of caspases in flavocoxid-mediated apoptosis during prostatic growth. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our results show that a 'dual inhibitor' of the COX and 5-LOX enzymes, such as flavocoxid, might represent a rational approach to reduce BPH through modulation of eicosanoid production and a caspase-induced apoptotic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Bitto A, Polito F, Bagnato G, Talotta R, Atteritano M, Irrera N, Ientile R, Ferlazzo N, Caccamo D, Bagnato G, Caliri A, Squadrito F, Altavilla D. Influence of Polymorphism −308 G/A of the Tnf-α Gene on High Mobility Group Box-1 Protein in Rheumatoid and Spondylo-Arthritis Patients. EUR J INFLAMM 2012. [DOI: 10.1177/1721727x1201000316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the human Tumor Necrosis Factor-α(TNF-α) gene promoter, the −308 G/A variant, has been associated with increased TNF-α levels that may amplify the severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and a poor responsiveness to TNF-α blockade therapy. High mobility group box protein (HMGB-1) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of RA and may be an original target of therapy. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the −308 G/A variant of the TNF-α gene is associated with altered expression of HMBG-1. A total of 110 consecutive patients with rheumatoid arthritis and spondylo-arthritis (ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and spondylitis associated with inflammatory bowel disease) referring to the Rheumatology Unit of Messina University Hospital were enrolled. Patients were genotyped for the −308 TNF-α gene promoter polymorphism. Clinical status was also assessed. HMGB-1 and TNF-α mRNA(Real Time PCR) from total blood and plasmatic HMGB-1 (Western Blot analysis) and TNF-α (ELISA) protein were also evaluated. Irrespective of the underlying disease, patients carrying the G/A genotype showed enhanced HMGB-1 and TNF-α mRNA levels and increased circulating concentration of the inflammatory cytokines when compared to patients with G/G genotype. The data suggest that subjects carrying the TNF-α −308G/A genotype have enhanced expression of HMGB-1 protein that may explain, at least in part, the increased severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
| | - F. Polito
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - G. Bagnato
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Italy
| | - R. Talotta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Italy
| | - M. Atteritano
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Italy
| | - N. Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
| | - R. Ientile
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - N. Ferlazzo
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - D. Caccamo
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - G. Bagnato
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Italy
| | - A. Caliri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Italy
| | - F. Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
| | - D. Altavilla
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
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Altavilla D, Romeo C, Squadrito F, Marini H, Morgia G, Antonuccio P, Minutoli L. Molecular pathways involved in the early and late damage induced by testis ischemia: evidence for a rational pharmacological modulation. Curr Med Chem 2012; 19:1219-24. [PMID: 22300051 DOI: 10.2174/092986712799320538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Revised: 01/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Testicular torsion or torsion of the spermatic cord is a surgical emergency in which misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment can lead to male infertility. Events occurring during testicular torsion and detorsion are representative of an ischemia-reperfusion injury observed in other organs. The two most important factors determining testicular damage are the degree of twisting and the early onset of a surgical treatment to counter-rotate both testis and spermatic cord for inducing reperfusion. The damage from reperfusion is more severe than that induced by ischemia and several mechanisms are implicated in the development of testicular damage following torsion and detorsion. However, these mechanisms have not yet been fully clarified and, as a consequence, there is still a strong need to identify specific pharmacological treatment to limit the damage triggered by the reperfusion procedures. Ischemia and reperfusion of testis result in elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), activate mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and PPARβ/δ receptor, induce transcription factors and growth factors including NF-κB and VEGF, trigger apoptotic machinery and induce several inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-1β . This pathological cascade is responsible for the testicular atrophy, decreased blood flow and impaired spermatogenesis. Several pharmacological approaches have been characterized as promising therapeutic agents for the management of testicular torsion and may be useful to ameliorate the sequel of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
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Morgia G, Altavilla D, Minutoli L, Cimino S, Favilla V, Sortino G, Caldarella I, Squadrito F. UP-02.081 The Association of Serenoa Repens-Selenium-Lycopene Is More Effective than Serenoa Repens Alone in Preventing Testosterone-Induced Prostatic Hyperplasia and PC3 Cell Growth via the Activation of the Apoptotic Machinery. Urology 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2011.07.899] [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: 11/16/2022]
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Bitto A, Marini H, Burnett BP, Polito F, Levy RM, Irrera N, Minutoli L, Adamo EB, Squadrito F, Altavilla D. Genistein aglycone effect on bone loss is not enhanced by supplemental calcium and vitamin D3: a dose ranging experimental study. Phytomedicine 2011; 18:879-886. [PMID: 21397481 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2011.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2010] [Revised: 11/15/2010] [Accepted: 02/05/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Genistein aglycone (GEN) has a favorable effect on bone loss. We investigated the effects of GEN alone or in combination with supplemental calcium and vitamin D(3) in an animal model of bone loss to evaluate if there was additional benefit. Ovariectomized (OVX) and SHAM-OVX rats were used. OVX were divided into 12 groups and randomized to receive: GEN at 27, 54, 200, 500 or 1000 mg (human equivalent dose (HED)/day/ip injection alone or with calcium carbonate (Ca) (360 mg/kg/day/gavages) and vitamin D(3) (D(3)) (50 IU/kg/day/gavages) or Ca/D(3) without GEN or untreated for 6 weeks. SHAM-OVX were randomized into 7 groups and treated with: Ca and D(3) alone or in combination with GEN (same doses as OVX), or left untreated. Bone mineral density (BMD), bone-alkaline phosphatase (b-ALP), collagen C-telopeptides (CTX), osteoprotegerin (OPG) and soluble receptor activator of NFκB ligand (sRANKL) were assessed. Femurs were excised and tested for breaking strength and histology. Uterine weight was analyzed to assess GEN's estrogenic effects on the SHAM-OVX. The most effective dose of GEN, independent of Ca/D(3) supplementation, was 54 mg/day. Higher doses yielded no further improvement in bone biomarkers, histology or strength. Only 1000 mg/day HED of genistein produced statistically significant changes in uterine weight of the SHAM-OVX. This study suggests that 54 mg/day of GEN is the threshold dose for efficacy. In addition, supplemental calcium and vitamin D(3), beyond normal dietary intake do not enhance the effects of genistein on improving measures of bone loss. This observation has implications regarding the use of calcium and vitamin D(3) supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
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Minutoli L, Antonuccio P, Squadrito F, Bitto A, Nicotina PA, Fazzari C, Polito F, Marini H, Bonvissuto G, Arena S, Morgia G, Romeo C, Caputi AP, Altavilla D. Effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide on the histological damage and the altered spermatogenesis induced by testicular ischaemia and reperfusion in rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 35:133-44. [PMID: 21651579 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01194.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), an agonist of the A2A adenosine receptors which when activated positively influences sperm activity, were tested in an experimental testicular ischaemia/reperfusion injury model. Anaesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to testicular torsion-induced ischaemia, followed by reperfusion (TI/R). Immediately after detorsion, randomized animals, including SHAM, received intraperitoneal injections of: (i) vehicle (1 mL/kg 0.9% NaCl solution); (ii) PDRN (8 mg/kg); (iii) DMPX (3,7-dimethyl-1-propargilxanthine, 0.1 mg/kg); or (iv) PDRN (8 mg/kg) + DMPX (0.1 mg/kg). Animals were euthanized at 1, 7 and 30 days following reperfusion. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression is normally associated with adenosine A2A receptor stimulation. After treatment, VEGF mRNA/protein expression quantified by qPCR and Western blot, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) mRNA measured by qPCR, VEGF and VEGFR1 assessed using immunohistochemical methods, histological staining and spermatogenic activity were all analysed. Testis ischaemia-reperfusion (TI/R) injury caused increases in VEGF mRNA and protein, VEGFR1 and eNOS mRNA, histological damage and reduced spermatogenic activity. Immunostaining showed a lower expression of VEGF in germinal epithelial cells and a strong expression of VEGFR1 in Leydig cells after TI/R. PDRN administration increased significantly VEGF message/protein, VEGFR1 and eNOS message, decreased histological damage and ameliorated spermatogenic activity. PDRN might be useful in the management of testicular torsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Minutoli
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Bitto A, De Caridi G, Spinelli F, Squadrito F. 438 IS HYPOXIA THE COMMON TRIGGER FOR INFLAMMATION AND APOPTOSIS IN HUMAN CAROTID ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUES? ATHEROSCLEROSIS SUPP 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s1567-5688(11)70439-1] [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: 10/18/2022]
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Polito F, Bitto A, Irrera N, Squadrito F, Fazzari C, Minutoli L, Altavilla D. Flavocoxid, a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-2 and 5-lipoxygenase, reduces pancreatic damage in an experimental model of acute pancreatitis. Br J Pharmacol 2011; 161:1002-11. [PMID: 20977452 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00933.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Acute pancreatitis is an autodigestive process resulting in acute inflammation of the pancreas. Accumulating evidence indicates the essential contribution of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) to acute pancreatitis. We studied the effects of flavocoxid, a plant-derived dual inhibitor of COX-2 and 5-LOX, in a model of caerulein (CER)-induced acute pancreatitis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Rats were given CER (80 µg·kg⁻¹ for each of four injections at hourly intervals) or vehicle (Sham-CER). Animals were then randomized to receive flavocoxid (20 mg·kg⁻¹ i.p.) or vehicle, 30 min after the first CER injection. Two hours after the last CER injection, we evaluated damage to the pancreas by histological methods; serum levels of amylase, lipase, leukotriene (LT)B₄ and prostaglandin (PG)E₂ ; pancreatic expression of COX-2 and 5-LOX and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) gene expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction. KEY RESULTS Caerulein induced inflammatory changes in the pancreas and raised values of the other variables measured. In CER-treated animals, but not in those given saline, flavocoxid inhibited COX-2 and 5-LOX expression, reduced serum levels of lipase and amylase and the degree of pancreatic oedema. Treatment with flavocoxid blunted the increased pancreatic TNF-α mRNA expression, serum leukotriene B₄ and prostaglandin E₂ levels, and protected against histological damage in terms of vacuolization and leukocyte infiltration. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results confirm the key role of both COX-2 and 5-LOX in the inflammatory response to acute pancreatitis. Flavocoxid may provide a potential therapeutic approach to the treatment of patients at high risk of developing this life-threatening condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Polito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Bitto A, Polito F, Squadrito F, Marini H, D'Anna R, Irrera N, Minutoli L, Granese R, Altavilla D. Genistein aglycone: a dual mode of action anti-osteoporotic soy isoflavone rebalancing bone turnover towards bone formation. Curr Med Chem 2011; 17:3007-18. [PMID: 20629630 DOI: 10.2174/092986710791959738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2010] [Accepted: 06/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is characterized by reduced bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue leading to enhanced bone fragility and a consequent increase in fracture risk. Bone loss further increases in postmenopausal women when the ovaries stop making estrogens. Women undergoing treatment for osteoporosis require long-term dosing therapeutic regimens, that offer no symptomatic relief, and may cause side effects. To avoid this problem, many therapeutic alternatives have been proposed. Epidemiological data support a robust relationship between soy isoflavones, fracture incidence and bone mineral density in osteoporotic, postmenopausal women. These suggest that a high isoflavone intake, restores the metabolic balance of bone formation and resorption. However, this matter is still controversial and several reports show negative results, probably because different doses and/or isoflavones have been used. Although it is difficult to identify the specific isoflavone most involved in preventing or restoring bone loss, a review of current literature based on new encouraging preclinical and clinical data, indicates that aglycone genistein appears to be the most effective isoflavone in preserving bone health. Genistein aglycone, through a peculiar anti-osteoporotic dual mode of action, can positively regulate bone cell metabolism rebalancing bone turnover towards bone formation. Genistein in fact stimulates osteoblast and inhibits osteoclast function, mainly through the osteoprotegerin-sRANKL system. The positive results achieved by genistein aglycone intake, in terms of efficacy and safety, have stimulated the development of specially formulated medical food products for the clinical management of postmenopausal bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bitto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, Torre, iologica 5th floor, AOU Policlinico G Martino, Via C Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
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Marini H, Polito F, Altavilla D, Irrera N, Minutoli L, Calò M, Adamo EB, Vaccaro M, Squadrito F, Bitto A. Genistein aglycone improves skin repair in an incisional model of wound healing: a comparison with raloxifene and oestradiol in ovariectomized rats. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:1185-94. [PMID: 20590611 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00758.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [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] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Oestrogen loss at menopause is frequently related to poor wound healing. Genistein has been tested in anti-ageing cosmetic preparations with interesting results on skin health. Here, we investigated the effects of the genistein aglycones, given systemically, in an incisional model of wound healing, compared to systemic oestradiol and raloxifene. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Six months after ovariectomy (OVX), rats were randomly assigned to groups of 12 animals each and treated daily with genistein aglycone (1 and 10 mg kg(-1) s.c.), raloxifene hydrochloride (0.05 and 0.5 mg kg(-1) s.c.) or 17-alpha-ethinyl oestradiol (0.003 and 0.03 mg kg(-1) s.c.) for 12 weeks. Untreated OVX and sham OVX rats were used as controls. Then, 14 or 7 days before the end of the experiment, an incisional wound healing procedure was performed and skin specimens were collected to evaluate molecular, histological and functional measurements. KEY RESULTS Seven and fourteen days after wounding, samples from OVX rats showed a decrease in transforming growth factor-beta1, tissue transglutaminase 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor compared to samples from sham OVX rats. Oestradiol, raloxifene and genistein all significantly modified this decrease, but the lowest genistein dose exerted a greater effect than the other treatments. Moreover, the lowest dose of genistein was the most effective in improving skin healing and wound tensile strength. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Genistein aglycone might be an alternative therapy for the management of skin wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Marini
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Marini H, Bitto A, Altavilla D, Burnett BP, Polito F, Di Stefano V, Minutoli L, Atteritano M, Levy RM, Frisina N, Mazzaferro S, Frisina A, D'Anna R, Cancellieri F, Cannata ML, Corrado F, Lubrano C, Marini R, Adamo EB, Squadrito F. Efficacy of genistein aglycone on some cardiovascular risk factors and homocysteine levels: A follow-up study. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2010; 20:332-340. [PMID: 19631515 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2009.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2009] [Revised: 04/16/2009] [Accepted: 04/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Recent evidence suggests that genistein aglycone may act beneficially on surrogate cardiovascular risk markers in postmenopausal women. We assessed the effects of genistein aglycone on some cardiovascular risk factors and homocysteine levels after 3-years of continued therapy in a cohort of osteopenic, postmenopausal women. METHODS AND RESULTS The parent study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 389 postmenopausal women with low bone mass for 24 months. Subsequently, a subcohort (138 patients) continued therapy for an additional year. Participants received 54mg of genistein aglycone (n=71) or placebo (n=67), daily. Both arms received calcium and vitamin D(3) in therapeutic doses. Moreover, 4 weeks before randomization procedures and during our follow-up study, all patients received dietary instructions in an isocaloric fat-restricted diet. Blood lipid profiles, fasting glucose and insulin, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), fibrinogen, osteoprotegerin (OPG) and homocysteine at baseline and after 24 and 36 months of treatment were measured. Compared to placebo, genistein significantly decreased fasting glucose and insulin, HOMA-IR, fibrinogen and homocysteine after 24 and 36 months of treatment. By contrast, isoflavone administration did not affect high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides though serum OPG was higher in the genistein recipients. There were no differences in adverse events or discomfort between groups. Results on routine biochemical, liver function, and hematologic testing did not change over time in placebo or genistein group. CONCLUSIONS After 3-years of treatment, genistein aglycone plus calcium, vitamin D(3) and a healthy diet showed positive effects on some cardiovascular risk factors and homocysteine levels in a cohort of postmenopausal women with low bone mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Marini
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, Section of Physiology and Human Nutrition, University of Messina, Italy
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Altavilla D, Squadrito F, Bitto A, Polito F, Burnett BP, Di Stefano V, Minutoli L. Flavocoxid, a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase, blunts pro-inflammatory phenotype activation in endotoxin-stimulated macrophages. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 157:1410-8. [PMID: 19681869 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00322.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The flavonoids, baicalin and catechin, from Scutellaria baicalensis and Acacia catechu, respectively, have been used for various clinical applications. Flavocoxid is a mixed extract containing baicalin and catechin, and acts as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX) and 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes. The anti-inflammatory activity, measured by protein and gene expression of inflammatory markers, of flavocoxid in rat peritoneal macrophages stimulated with Salmonella enteritidis lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was investigated. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH LPS-stimulated (1 microg.mL(-1)) peritoneal rat macrophages were co-incubated with different concentrations of flavocoxid (32-128 microg.mL(-1)) or RPMI medium for different incubation times. Inducible COX-2, 5-LOX, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and inhibitory protein kappaB-alpha (IkappaB-alpha) levels were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) binding activity was investigated by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) gene and protein expression were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay respectively. Finally, malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrite levels in macrophage supernatants were evaluated. KEY RESULTS LPS stimulation induced a pro-inflammatory phenotype in rat peritoneal macrophages. Flavocoxid (128 microg.mL(-1)) significantly inhibited COX-2 (LPS = 18 +/- 2.1; flavocoxid = 3.8 +/- 0.9 integrated intensity), 5-LOX (LPS = 20 +/- 3.8; flavocoxid = 3.1 +/- 0.8 integrated intensity) and iNOS expression (LPS = 15 +/- 1.1; flavocoxid = 4.1 +/- 0.4 integrated intensity), but did not modify COX-1 expression. PGE(2) and LTB(4) levels in culture supernatants were consequently decreased. Flavocoxid also prevented the loss of IkappaB-alpha protein (LPS = 1.9 +/- 0.2; flavocoxid = 7.2 +/- 1.6 integrated intensity), blunted increased NF-kappaB binding activity (LPS = 9.2 +/- 2; flavocoxid = 2.4 +/- 0.7 integrated intensity) and the enhanced TNF-alpha mRNA levels (LPS = 8 +/- 0.9; flavocoxid = 1.9 +/- 0.8 n-fold/beta-actin) induced by LPS. Finally, flavocoxid decreased MDA, TNF and nitrite levels from LPS-stimulated macrophages. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Flavocoxid might be useful as a potential anti-inflammatory agent, acting at the level of gene and protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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26
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Atteritano M, Mazzaferro S, Frisina A, Cannata ML, Bitto A, D'Anna R, Squadrito F, Macrì I, Frisina N, Buemi M. Genistein effects on quantitative ultrasound parameters and bone mineral density in osteopenic postmenopausal women. Osteoporos Int 2009; 20:1947-54. [PMID: 19238303 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-009-0883-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2008] [Accepted: 02/09/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This study aimed at evaluating the effects of genistein (54 mg/die) on calcaneus and phalanges ultrasound (QUS) parameters and bone mineral density in osteopenic postmenopausal women. We concluded that genistein prevented bone loss in the osteopenic postmenopausal women and improves QUS parameters at the calcaneus and phalanges. INTRODUCTION The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of genistein (54 mg/die) on quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters of the calcaneus and hand phalange and on bone mineral density (BMD) in osteopenic postmenopausal women. METHODS One hundred thirty-eight women (age 49-67 years) were assigned to receive genistein or placebo. Bone status was assessed by measuring the anteroposterior lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and by ultrasound of the calcaneus (Achilles Plus, GE, Lunar) and of the phalanges (Bone Profiler. IGEA) at baseline and after a 1- and 2-year treatment. RESULTS At the end of the experimental period, genistein had significantly increased BMD in the femur and lumbar spine (p < 0.001). The stiffness index, amplitude-dependent speed of sound, and bone transmission time in the genistein group had increased significantly at the end of study (+5.3, p < 0.001; +3.6%, p < 0.001; +4.6, p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study confirms that genistein prevented bone loss in the osteopenic postmenopausal women and it improves the QUS parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Atteritano
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Bitto A, Burnett BP, Polito F, Levy RM, Marini H, Di Stefano V, Irrera N, Armbruster MA, Minutoli L, Altavilla D, Squadrito F. Genistein aglycone reverses glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis and increases bone breaking strength in rats: a comparative study with alendronate. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 156:1287-95. [PMID: 19302595 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2008.00100.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is the leading cause of secondary osteoporosis. Clinical evidence suggests a role for genistein aglycone in the treatment of post-menopausal osteopenia although proof of efficacy in comparison with currently available treatments is still lacking. To clarify this issue, we investigated the effects of genistein on bone compared with alendronate in experimental GIO. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A total of 28 female Sprague-Dawley rats were used. GIO was induced by daily injections of methylprednisolone (MP; 30 mg x kg(-1) s.c.) for 60 days. Sham GIO animals (Sham-MP) were injected daily with the MP vehicle. At the end of the osteoporosis development period, MP rats were randomized to receive: vehicle (n= 7), genistein aglycone (5 mg x kg(-1) s.c.; n= 7) or alendronate (0.03 mg x kg(-1) s.c.; n= 7). Treatment lasted 60 days. Sham-MP animals were treated with vehicle for an additional 60 days. At the beginning and at the end of treatments, animals were examined for bone mineral density and bone mineral content. Bone-alkaline phosphatase and carboxy-terminal collagen cross links were determined; femurs were removed and tested for breaking strength and histology. KEY RESULTS Genistein aglycone showed a greater increase in bone mineral density, bone mineral content and in breaking strength than alendronate and significantly increased bone-alkaline phosphatase (bone formation marker), reduced carboxy-terminal collagen cross links (bone resorption marker), compared with alendronate. Both treatments improved bone histology and the histological score. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The results strongly suggest that the genistein aglycone might be an alternative therapy for the management of secondary osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Calò M, Marini H, Bitto A, Altavilla D, Polito F, Minutoli L, Lo Cascio P, Antoci S, Squadrito F. Protective effects of IRFI-042 in monensin induced neurotoxicity in chicks. Food Chem Toxicol 2008; 46:3528-33. [PMID: 18834916 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2008.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2008] [Revised: 08/23/2008] [Accepted: 09/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Monensin, a well known ionophore antibiotic, may cause severe damage in neuronal cells by altering Na+/K+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase. We investigated whether IRFI-042, a synthetic analogue of vitamin E, may block lipid peroxidation in neuronal cells and protect against monensin neurotoxicity in chicks. Monensin toxicity was induced in chicks by once-daily administration (150 mg/kg by oral gavages), for 8 days. Sham animals received a saline solution and were used as controls. All animals were randomized to receive either IRFI-042 (20 mg/kg) or its vehicle. Survival rate, brain lipid peroxidation, mRNA for neuronal and inducible nitric oxide synthases (nNOS and iNOS) and brain histological evaluations, including immunohistochemical expression of nNOS and iNOS were performed. Monensin administration decreased survival rate, induced behavioural changes, increased brain lipid peroxidation, reduced brain nNOS mRNA and immunostaining and enhanced iNOS mRNA and immunostaining in the brain in chicks. IRFI-042 significantly improved the survival rate and counteracted monensin-induced changes in chick brains. Our data suggest that monensin is responsible of neurotoxicity in chicks by inducing oxidative stress/lipid peroxidation and that IRFI-042 might represent a useful pharmacological approach to protect against the neuronal damage induced by this monovalent carboxylic ionophorous polyether antibiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Calò
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Section of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Messina, Italy
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Messina S, Mazzeo A, Bitto A, Aguennouz M, Migliorato A, Monici M, De Pasquale M, Squadrito F, Vita G. G.P.6.09 Medical food in mdx mice: Isoflavones ameliorate muscle function and pathology. Neuromuscul Disord 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2007.06.144] [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: 10/22/2022]
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Bitto A, Minutoli L, Squadrito F, Polito F, Altavilla D. Raxofelast, (±)5-(Acetyloxy)-2,3-dihydro-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-benzofuranacetic Acid: A New Antioxidant to Modulate the Inflammatory Response During Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury and Impaired Wound Healing. Mini Rev Med Chem 2007; 7:339-43. [PMID: 17346222 DOI: 10.2174/138955707780059835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Raxofelast, also named IRFI 016 or (+/-)5-(acetyloxy)-2,3-dihydro-4,6,7-trimethyl-2-benzofuranacetic acid, belongs to a family of novel molecules designed with the aim to maximize antioxidant potency of phenols related to Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). This review will focus on the antioxidant and radical scavenging activity of this new promising compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
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Messina S, Aguennouz M, Bitto A, Migliorato A, Giacca M, Squadrito F, Vita G. T.O. 4 Vascular endothelial growth factor gene transfer using adeno-associated viral vectors stimulates skeletal muscle regeneration and enhances muscle function in mdx mice. Neuromuscul Disord 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2006.05.251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Bonaiuto A, Bitto A, Sardo M, Polito F, Saitta C, Squadrito F, Saitta A. Mo-P6:458 A 1-year study on hydroxy-methylglutaryl coenzymea reductase gene expression and polymorphisms in hypercholesterolemic treated with statins. ATHEROSCLEROSIS SUPP 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1567-5688(06)80588-x] [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: 10/23/2022]
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Altavilla D, Galeano M, Marini H, Squadrito F. Hydrophilic Dual Vitamin E-Like Antioxidants as Modulators of Inflammatory Response in Low-Flow States and Impaired Wound Healing. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.2174/1568014033483707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Adamo EB, Marini H, Marini R, Bellomo M, Altavilla D, Calapai G, Bitto A, Squadrito F. IRFI 042 reduces oxidative stress against kainic acid toxicity in the rat brain. J Neurochem 2003. [DOI: 10.1046/j.1471-4159.85.s2.19_1.x] [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: 11/20/2022]
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35
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Galeano M, Deodato B, Altavilla D, Cucinotta D, Arsic N, Marini H, Torre V, Giacca M, Squadrito F. Adeno-associated viral vector-mediated human vascular endothelial growth factor gene transfer stimulates angiogenesis and wound healing in the genetically diabetic mouse. Diabetologia 2003; 46:546-55. [PMID: 12677400 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-003-1064-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2002] [Revised: 10/24/2002] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS We studied the gene therapy efficacy of diabetes-associated wound healing disorder with an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector expressing the 165-amino acid isoform of human vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) by using an incisional skin-wound model produced on the back of female diabetic C57BL/KsJ db+/db+ mice and their normal littermates ( db+/+m). METHODS Animals were randomized to receive intradermally into the wound edges either rAAV-LacZ (a control gene), or rAAV-VEGF165. Animals were killed on different days (7 and 14 days after skin injury) and wounded skin tissues were used for gene marker studies, histological evaluation and immunohistochemistry, and wound breaking strength analysis. Furthermore we studied the VEGF mature protein in the wounds. RESULTS We found that AAV vectors are highly efficient for gene transfer to the mouse skin, displaying an exquisite tropism for the panniculus carnosus by using the beta-galactosidase activity assay. We confirmed the increased expression of the angiogenic factor at day 7 by measuring the wound content of the mature protein. Delivery of VEGF165 to incisional skin wounds of diabetic mice resulted in a remarkable induction of new vessel formation with consequent improvement in the wound healing process. The rAAV-VEGF165 gene improved wound healing in diabetic mice through the stimulation of angiogenesis, reepithelization, synthesis and maturation of extracellular matrix. Moreover the recombinant AAV encoding the human VEGF165 increased the breaking strength of the wound and enhanced the wound content of VEGF. CONCLUSION/INTERPRETATION Our study suggests that VEGF gene transfer might represent a new approach to treat wound healing disorders associated with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Galeano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Plastic Surgery, University of Messina, Italy
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Altavilla D, Cainazzo M, Bazzani C, Bigiani A, Squadrito F, Minutoli L, Bertolini A, Guarini S. VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION BLUNTS NF-κB ACTIVATION AND PROTECTS AGAINST HYPOVOLEMIC HEMORRHAGIC SHOCK. Shock 2002. [DOI: 10.1097/00024382-200206001-00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Deodato B, Arsic N, Zentilin L, Galeano M, Santoro D, Torre V, Altavilla D, Valdembri D, Bussolino F, Squadrito F, Giacca M. Recombinant AAV vector encoding human VEGF165 enhances wound healing. Gene Ther 2002; 9:777-85. [PMID: 12040459 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3301697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2001] [Accepted: 02/05/2002] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Delivery of therapeutic genes represents an appealing possibility to accelerate healing of wounds that are otherwise difficult to treat, such as those in patients with metabolic disorders or infections. Experimental evidence indicates that in such conditions potentiation of neo-angiogenesis at the wound site might represent an important therapeutic target. Here we explore the efficacy of gene therapy of wound healing with an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector expressing the 165 amino acid isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). By gene marker studies, we found that AAV vectors are highly efficient for gene transfer to the rat skin, displaying an exquisite tropism for the panniculus carnosus. Gene expression from these vectors is sustained and persistent over time. Delivery of VEGF165 to full thickness excisional wounds in rats resulted in remarkable induction of new vessel formation, with consequent reduction of the healing time. Histological examination of treated wounds revealed accelerated remodeling of epidermis and dermis, with formation of a thick granular layer, containing numerous newly formed capillaries, as well as vessels of larger size. These data underline the importance of neo-angiogenesis in the healing process and indicate that VEGF gene transfer might represent a novel approach to treat wound healing disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Deodato
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
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Ferlito M, Romanenko OG, Ashton S, Squadrito F, Halushka PV, Cook JA. Effect of cross-tolerance between endotoxin and TNF-alpha or IL-1beta on cellular signaling and mediator production. J Leukoc Biol 2001; 70:821-9. [PMID: 11698503] [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] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Endotoxin [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] tolerance suppresses macrophage/monocyte proinflammatory-mediator production. This phenomenon also confers cross-tolerance to other stimuli including tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and interleukin (IL)-1beta. Post-receptor convergence of signal transduction pathways might occur after LPS, IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha stimulation. Therefore, it was hypothesized that down-regulation of common signaling molecules induces cross-tolerance among these stimuli. LPS tolerance and cross-tolerance were examined in THP-1 cells. Phosphorylation of MAP kinases and degradation of inhibitor kappaBalpha (IkappaBalpha) DNA binding of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), and mediator production were examined. In naive cells, LPS, TNF-alpha, and IL-1beta induced IkappaBalpha degradation, kinase phosphorylation, and NF-kappaB DNA binding. LPS stimulation induced production of TNF-alpha or TxB2 and degradation of IRAK. However, neither TNF-alpha nor IL-1beta induced IRAK degradation or stimulated TNF-alpha or TxB2 production in naive cells. Pretreatment with each stimulus induced homologous tolerance to restimulation with the same agonist. LPS tolerance also suppressed LPS-induced TxB2 and TNF-alpha production. LPS pretreatment induced cross-tolerance to TNF-alpha or IL-1beta stimulation. Pretreatment with TNF-alpha induced cross-tolerance to LPS-induced signaling events and TxB2 production. Although pretreatment with IL-1beta did not induce cross-tolerance to LPS-induced signaling events, it strongly inhibited LPS TNF-alpha and TxB2 production. These data demonstrate that IL-1beta induces cross-tolerance to LPS-induced mediator production without suppressing LPS-induced signaling to MAP kinases or NF-kappaB activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ferlito
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA
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Altavilla D, Saitta A, Guarini S, Galeano M, Squadrito G, Santamaria LB, Venuti FS, Bazzani C, Bertolini A, Squadrito F. Nuclear factor-kappaB as a target of cyclosporin in acute hypovolemic hemorrhagic shock. Cardiovasc Res 2001; 52:143-52. [PMID: 11557243 DOI: 10.1016/s0008-6363(01)00362-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclosporin is an immunosuppressive drug that blocks Nuclear Factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation. We investigated the role of NF-kappaB in acute hypovolemic hemorrhagic (Hem) shock and the effects of cyclosporin in this model of experimental shock. METHODS Hem shock was induced in male anesthetized rats by intermittently withdrawing blood from an iliac catheter over a period of 20 min (bleeding period) until mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) fell and stabilized within the range of 20-30 mmHg. Two minutes after bleeding cessation, animals received intravenously cyclosporin (1 mg kg(-1)) or its vehicle. Survival rate and survival time were evaluated for 120 min after bleeding was discontinued. Plasma TNF-alpha levels were investigated at different time points after bleeding cessation. Moreover we investigated levels of TNF-alpha mRNA in the liver, vascular reactivity, liver NF-kappaB binding activity and levels of the inhibitory protein IkappaBalpha in the cytoplasm. RESULTS Hemorrhagic shocked rats died in 27+/-6 min following the cessation of bleeding, experienced a marked hypotension (mean arterial blood pressure=20-30 mmHg) and had enhanced plasma levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (208+/-22 pg ml(-1), 20 min after the end of bleeding). Furthermore, aortas taken 20 min after bleeding from hemorrhagic shocked rats showed a marked hypo-reactivity to phenylephrine (PE: 1 nM-10 microM) compared with aortas harvested from sham shocked rats. Hem shocked rats also had increased levels of TNF-alpha mRNA in the liver (15-20 min after the end of bleeding). Electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that liver NF-kappaB binding activity increased in the nucleus 10 min after the end of hemorrhage and remained elevated until the death of animals. Western blot analysis suggested that the levels of inhibitory protein IkappaBalpha in the cytoplasm decreased at 5 min after the end of bleeding. Cyclosporin inhibited the loss of IkappaBalpha protein from the cytoplasm and prevented NF-kappaB binding activity in the nucleus. Furthermore, cyclosporin increased survival time (118+/-7 min; P<0.01) and survival rate (vehicle=0% and cyclosporin=80%, at 120 min after the end of bleeding), reverted the marked hypotension, decreased liver mRNA for TNF-alpha, reduced plasma TNF-alpha (28+/-7 pg ml(-1)), and restored to control values the hypo-reactivity to PE. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that acute blood loss (50% of the estimated total blood volume over a period of 20 min) causes early activation of NF-kappaB which triggers an inflammatory cascade leading to a fatal outcome. Cyclosporin blocks NF-kappaB activation and protects against hypovolemic hemorrhagic shock.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Saitta A, Altavilla D, Cucinotta D, Morabito N, Frisina N, Corrado F, D'Anna R, Lasco A, Squadrito G, Gaudio A, Cancellieri F, Arcoraci V, Squadrito F. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on effects of raloxifene and hormone replacement therapy on plasma no concentrations, endothelin-1 levels, and endothelium-dependent vasodilation in postmenopausal women. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2001; 21:1512-9. [PMID: 11557681 DOI: 10.1161/hq0901.095565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The endothelium is thought to play an important role in the genesis of atherosclerosis, and several lines of evidence suggest that the effect of an intervention on endothelial function might predict its involvement in coronary disease progression and in the rate of cardiovascular events. Estrogen has direct effects on the blood vessel wall, indicating that vascular endothelium may play a key role in the cardiovascular protective effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Raloxifene relaxes coronary arteries in vitro by an estrogen receptor-dependent and NO-dependent mechanism, thus suggesting that this selective estrogen receptor modulator could also have beneficial effects on endothelial function. This study compared the effects of HRT and raloxifene on NO products, endothelin-1 plasma levels, and endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in postmenopausal women. Healthy postmenopausal women (n=90) were enrolled in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 6-month trial. Women were randomly assigned to receive continuous HRT (1 mg 17beta-estradiol combined with 0.5 mg norethisterone acetate), raloxifene (60 mg/d), or placebo for 6 months. Flow-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation of the brachial artery, plasma NO concentrations, and endothelin levels were measured at baseline and after 6 months of therapy. The mean baseline level of NO breakdown products was 26.5+/-10.7 micromol/L and increased to 36.3+/-11.4 micromol/L after 6 months of treatment with raloxifene. The mean baseline plasma endothelin level was 17.3+/-8.9 pg/mL and decreased to 11.5+/-2.1 pg/mL after 6 months of treatment with the selective estrogen receptor modulator. The mean baseline ratio of NO (breakdown products) to endothelin was also significantly increased at the end of treatment with raloxifene. Postmenopausal women treated with HRT had similar changes in plasma nitrites/nitrates and endothelin levels as well as in the ratio of NO to endothelin. In contrast, these markers of endothelial function did not change in the placebo-treated women. Flow-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation of the brachial artery was 8.3+/-2.1% at baseline and increased to 12.3+/-2.1% after 6 months of treatment with raloxifene. HRT also caused a significant and similar increase in flow-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation. No change in flow-mediated vasodilation was observed in the participants treated with placebo. We conclude that raloxifene therapy and HRT influence endothelial function and improve flow-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation to a comparable extent in healthy postmenopausal women at least after a 6-month treatment period. However, further investigation is warranted to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms of the effect of raloxifene on vascular function and to determine whether its effect on endothelial function may contribute to the reduction in cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Saitta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Saitta A, Morabito N, Frisina N, Cucinotte D, Corrado F, D'Anna R, Altavilla D, Squadrito G, Minutoli L, Arcoraci V, Cancellieri F, Squadrito F. Cardiovascular effects of raloxifene hydrochloride. Cardiovasc Drug Rev 2001; 19:57-74. [PMID: 11314601 DOI: 10.1111/j.1527-3466.2001.tb00183.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Raloxifene hydrochloride binds to the estrogen receptor and shows tissue-selective effects; thus, it belongs to a class of drugs recently described as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). Tissue selectivity of raloxifene may be achieved through several mechanisms: the ligand structure, interaction of the ligand with different receptor subtypes in various tissues, and intracellular events after ligand binding. Raloxifene has estrogen-agonist effects on bone and lipids and estrogen antagonist effects on the breast and uterus. In addition to its well established effects on osteoporosis, recent preclinical and clinical findings suggest that raloxifene also possesses beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. These findings indicated that raloxifene may have cardioprotective properties without an increased risk of cancer or other side effects. Raloxifene has been shown to reduce total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in plasma, an effect similar to that produced by estrogens. Unlike estrogens, however, raloxifene does not increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels in plasma. Endothelium is thought to play an important role in the genesis of atherosclerosis. Several lines of evidence suggest that an intervention with endothelial function might influence the progression of coronary disease and the incidence of cardiovascular events. Raloxifene increases the nitric oxide/endothelin-1 ratio, and improves endothelium-dependent vasomotion in post-menopausal women to the same extent as estrogens. Furthermore, in two randomized trials on post-menopausal women raloxifene reduced homocysteine levels, another independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Although estrogens remain the drugs of choice in the hormonal therapy of most postmenopausal women, raloxifene may represent and alternative in women who are at risk of coronary artery disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Saitta
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
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42
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Altavilla D, Saitta A, Guarini S, Galeano M, Squadrito G, Cucinotta D, Santamaria LB, Mazzeo AT, Campo GM, Ferlito M, Minutoli L, Bazzani C, Bertolini A, Caputi AP, Squadrito F. Oxidative stress causes nuclear factor-kappaB activation in acute hypovolemic hemorrhagic shock. Free Radic Biol Med 2001; 30:1055-66. [PMID: 11369495 DOI: 10.1016/s0891-5849(01)00492-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear Factor kappaB (NFkappaB) is an ubiquitous rapid response transcription factor involved in inflammatory reactions and exerts its action by expressing cytokines, chemokines, and cell adhesion molecules. We investigated the role of NF-kappaB in acute hypovolemic hemorrhagic (Hem) shock. Hem shock was induced in male anesthetized rats by intermittently withdrawing blood from an iliac catheter over a period of 20 min (bleeding period) until mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) fell and stabilized within the range of 20-30 mmHg. Hemorrhagic shocked rats died in 26.3 +/- 2.1 min following the discontinuance of bleeding, experienced a marked hypotension (mean arterial blood pressure = 20-30 mmHg) and had enhanced plasma levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (200 +/- 15 pg/ml, 20 min after the end of bleeding). Furthermore, aortas taken 20 min after bleeding from hemorrhagic shocked rats showed a marked hypo-reactivity to phenylephrine (PE; 1nM to 10 microM) compared with aortas harvested from sham shocked rats. Hem shocked rats also had increased levels of TNF-alpha mRNA in the liver (15-20 min after the end of bleeding) and enhanced plasma levels of 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHBA; 6 +/- 2.2 microm), 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,3-DHBA; 13 +/- 2.1 microm), both studied to evaluate OH(*) production. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that liver NF-kappaB binding activity increased in the nucleus 10 min after the end of hemorrhage and remained elevated until the death of animals. Western blot analysis suggested that the levels of inhibitory IkappaBalpha protein in the cytoplasm became decreased at 5 min after the end of bleeding. IRFI-042, a vitamin E analogue (20 mg/kg intraperitoneally 2 min after the end of bleeding), inhibited the loss of IkappaBalpha protein from the cytoplasm and blunted the increase in NF-kappaB binding activity. Furthermore IRFI-042 increased survival time (117.8 +/- 6.51 min; p <.01) and survival rate (vehicle = 0% and IRFI-042 = 80%, at 120 min after the end of bleeding), reverted the marked hypotension, decreased liver mRNA for TNF-alpha, reduced plasma TNF-alpha (21 +/- 4.3 pg/ml), and restored to control values the hypo-reactivity to PE. Our results suggest that acute blood loss (50% of the estimated total blood volume over a period of 20 min) causes early activation of NF-kappaB, likely through an increased production of reactive oxygen species. This experiment indicates that NF-kappaB-triggered inflammatory cascade becomes early activated during acute hemorrhage even in the absence of resuscitation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario, Messina, Italy
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Galeano M, Torre V, Deodato B, Campo GM, Colonna M, Sturiale A, Squadrito F, Cavallari V, Cucinotta D, Buemi M, Altavilla D. Raxofelast, a hydrophilic vitamin E-like antioxidant, stimulates wound healing in genetically diabetic mice. Surgery 2001; 129:467-77. [PMID: 11283539 DOI: 10.1067/msy.2001.112072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impaired wound healing is a well-documented phenomenon in experimental and clinical diabetes. Emerging evidence favors the involvement of free radicals in the pathogenesis of diabetes-related healing deficit. This study assessed the effect of systemic administration of raxofelast, a protective membrane antioxidant agent, on wound healing by using healing-impaired (db/db) mice. METHODS The wound healing effect of raxofelast was investigated by using an incisional skin-wound model produced on the back of female diabetic C57BL/KsJ db+/db+ mice and their healthy littermates (db+/+m). Animals were then randomized to the following treatment: raxofelast (15 mg/kg/d intraperitoneally) or its vehicle (dimethyl sulfoxide/sodium chloride 0.9%, 1:1, vol/vol). The animals were killed on different days, and the wounded skin tissues were used for histologic evaluation and for analysis of malondialdehyde (MDA) level and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, wound breaking strength, and collagen content. RESULTS Diabetic mice showed delayed wound healing together with low collagen content, breaking strength, and increased MDA levels and MPO activity when compared with their healthy littermates. The administration of raxofelast did not modify the process of wound repair in healthy (db/+) mice, but significantly improved impaired wound healing in diabetic mice through the stimulation of angiogenesis, reepithelialization, synthesis, and maturation of extracellular matrix. Furthermore, raxofelast treatment significantly reduced MDA levels, MPO activity, and increased the breaking strength and collagen content of the wound. CONCLUSIONS The current study provides evidence that raxofelast restores wound healing to nearly normal levels in experimental diabetes-impaired wounds and suggests that an increased lipid peroxidation in diabetic mice may have a role in determining a defect of wound repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Galeano
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital, University of Messina, ViaScite, 23 I-98124 Messina, Italy
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Campo GM, Squadrito F, Ceccarelli S, Calò M, Avenoso A, Campo S, Squadrito G, Altavilla D. Reduction of carbon tetrachloride-induced rat liver injury by IRFI 042, a novel dual vitamin E-like antioxidant. Free Radic Res 2001; 34:379-93. [PMID: 11328674 DOI: 10.1080/10715760100300321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced hepatotoxicity is likely the result of a CCl4 -induced free radical production which causes membrane lipid peroxidation and activation of transcription factors regulating both the TNF-alpha gene and the early-immediate genes involved in tissue regeneration. IRFI 042 is a novel vitamin E-like compound having a masked sulphydryl group in the aliphatic side chain. We studied the effect of IRFI 042 on CCl4 -induced liver injury. Liver damage was induced in male rats by an intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 (1 ml/kg in vegetal oil). Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity, liver malondialdehyde (MAL), hydroxyl radical formation (OH*), calculated indirectly by a trapping agent, hepatic reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration, plasma TNF-alpha, liver histology and hepatic mRNA levels for TNF-alpha were evaluated 48 h after CCl4 administration. Hepatic vitamin E (VE) levels were evaluated, in a separate group of animals, 2 h after CCl4 injection. A control group with vitamin E (100 mg/kg) was also treated in order to evaluate the differences versus the analogue treated groups. Intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride produced a marked increase in serum ALT activity (CCl4 = 404.61 +/- 10.33 U/L; Controls= 28.54 +/- 4.25 U/L), liver MAL (CCl4 = 0.67 +/- 0.16 nmol/mg protein; Controls= 0.13 +/- 0.06 nmol/mg protein), OH(7) levels assayed as 2,3-DHBA (CCl4 = 8.73 +/- 1.46 microM; Controls= 0.45 +/- 0.15 microM) and 2,5-DHBA (CCl4 = 24.61 +/- 3.32 microM; Controls= 2.75 +/- 0.93 microM), induced a severe depletion of GSH (CCl4 = 3.26 +/- 1.85 micromol/g protein; Controls= 17.82 +/- 3.13 micromol/g protein) and a marked decrease in VE levels (CCl4 = 5.67 +/- 1.22 nmol/g tissue; Controls= 13.47 +/- 3.21 nmol/g tissue), caused liver necrosis, increased plasma TNF-alpha levels (CCl4 = 57.36 +/- 13.24 IU/ml; Controls= 7.26 +/- 2.31 IU/ml) and enhanced hepatic mRNA for TNF-alpha (CCl4 = 19.22 +/- 4.38 a.u.; Controls= 0.76 +/- 0.36 a.u.). IRFI 042 (100 mg/kg, 30 min after CCl4 injection) blunted liver MAL (0.32 +/- 0.17 nmol/mg protein), decreased the serum levels of ALT (128.71 +/- 13.23 U/L), and restored the hepatic concentrations of VE (9.52 +/- 3.21 nmol/g tissue), inhibited OH* production (2,3-DHBA= 3.54 +/- 1.31 microM; 2,5-DHBA= 7.37 +/- 2.46 microM), restored the endogenous antioxidant GSH (12.77 +/- 3.73 mmol/g protein) and improved histology. Furthermore IRFI 042 treatment suppressed plasma TNF-alpha concentrations (31.47 +/- 18.25 IU/ml) and hepatic TNF-alpha mRNA levels (11.65 +/- 3.21 a.u.). The acute treatment with vitamin E failed to exert any protective effect against CCl4 -induced hepatotoxicity. These investigations suggest that IRFI 042 treatment may be of benefit during free radical-mediated liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Campo
- Institute of Human Physiology, Chair of Chemistry, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario, 98100, Messina, Italy.
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Abstract
Previous studies suggest that endotoxin (LPS) stimulation of CD14 receptors may be coupled to heterotrimeric G proteins. However, characterization of the G protein-coupled signaling pathways is incomplete. Also, specific changes in the transduction pathways occur in a phenomenon known as LPS tolerance or desensitization induced by prior exposure to LPS. In the present study, we examined potential CD14-dependent G protein-coupled signaling events in response to LPS, and changes in signaling in these pathways during LPS desensitization in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells. LPS stimulated inhibitory kappa B alpha (IkappaB alpha) degradation and p38 phosphorylation in CHO cells transfected with human CD14 receptor (CHO-CD14), but not in CHO cells transfected with vector only. However, activation of these signaling events diverged early in the signal transduction pathways. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin, which inactivates inhibitor G protein (G alpha i) function, significantly inhibited LPS-induced p38 phosphorylation, but not LPS-induced IkappaB alpha degradation. Mastoparan, a putative G alpha i agonist, synergized with LPS to induce p38 phosphorylation. Thus, LPS stimulation of p38 phosphorylation is, in part, G alpha i coupled, whereas IkappaB alpha degradation is not. In subsequent studies, CHO-CD14 cells were desensitized by prior LPS exposure. LPS-desensitized cells exhibited augmented IkappaB alpha content and were refractory to LPS-induced IkappaB alpha degradation and p38 phosphorylation. Pretreatment with cycloheximide, a protein synthesis inhibitor, prevented the effect of LPS desensitization on augmenting cellular IkappaB alpha content and its refractoriness to LPS-induced degradation. However, cycloheximide pretreatment did not prevent impaired p38 phosphorylation in desensitized cells. IkappaB alpha upregulation in LPS tolerance may occur through increased synthesis and/or induction of protein that suppress IkappaB alpha degradation. The latter protein synthesis-dependent mechanisms may be distinct from mechanismis inhibiting p38 phosphorylation in tolerance. These findings suggest that LPS tolerance induces CD14-dependent signaling alterations in G alpha i-coupled pathways leading to mitogen-activated (MAP) kinase activation as well as G alpha i-independent pathways inducing IkappaB alpha degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ferlito
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425, USA
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Calapai G, Crupi A, Firenzuoli F, Inferrera G, Squadrito F, Parisi A, De Sarro G, Caputi A. Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine involvement in the antidepressant action of hypericum perforatum. Pharmacopsychiatry 2001; 34:45-9. [PMID: 11302563 DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-15180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Hypericum perforatum is considered an effective alternative to the synthetic antidepressants in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression. Recently, we showed that the effects on neurotransmitter contents in different brain regions of laboratory animals are more evident after administration of hypericum extracts containing a higher concentration of flavonoids, thus suggesting that these compounds are important in the antidepressant action of hypericum perforatum. We studied the effects of Ph-50, a hypericum extract standardized to flavonoids (50%) and containing 0.3% hypericin and 4.5% hyperforin on brain serotonin content, norepinephrine and dopamine by a high-performance liquid chromatography method in discrete brain areas (cortex, diencephalon and brainstem) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Moreover, we evaluated the effects of Ph-50 alone or in association with sulpiride (a dopamine receptor antagonist), metergoline (a serotonin receptor antagonist) and 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OH-DA, destroying norepinephrine-containing neurons) using a forced-swimming test in the rat. Hypericum extract (Ph-50; 250-500 mg/kg) with acute oral administration enhanced serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine content in the brain and reduced the immobility time of rats in the forced-swimming test. Sulpiride, metergoline and 6-OH-DA significantly increased the period of immobility in the forced-swimming test for the rats receiving hypericum extract (Ph-50). The results indicate that the neurotransmitters studied could be involved in the anti-immobility effects of hypericum, and suggest that its antidepressant action is probably mediated by serotonergic, noradrenergic and dopaminergic system activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Calapai
- Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Torre Biologica Policlinico Universitario, Italy.
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47
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Altavilla D, Saitta A, Cucinotta D, Galeano M, Deodato B, Colonna M, Torre V, Russo G, Sardella A, Urna G, Campo GM, Cavallari V, Squadrito G, Squadrito F. Inhibition of lipid peroxidation restores impaired vascular endothelial growth factor expression and stimulates wound healing and angiogenesis in the genetically diabetic mouse. Diabetes 2001; 50:667-74. [PMID: 11246889 DOI: 10.2337/diabetes.50.3.667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Impaired wound healing is a well-documented phenomenon in experimental and clinical diabetes. Experimental evidence suggests that a defect in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulation might be associated with wound-healing disorders. We studied the involvement of lipid peroxidation in the pathogenesis of altered VEGF expression in diabetes-related healing deficit by using an incisional skin-wound model produced on the back of female diabetic C57BL/KsJ db+/ db+ mice and their normal (db+/+m) littermates. Animals were then randomized to the following treatment: raxofelast (15 mg.kg(-1).day(-1) i.p.), an inhibitor of lipid peroxidation, or its vehicle (DMSO/NaCl 0.9%, 1:1 vol: vol). The animals were killed on different days (3, 6, and 12 days after skin injury), and the wounded skin tissues were used for histological evaluation, for analysis of conjugated dienes (CDs), as an index of lipid peroxidation and wound breaking strength. Furthermore, we studied the time course of VEGF mRNA expression throughout the skin-repair process (3, 6, and 12 days after skin injury), by means of reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, as well as the mature protein in the wounds. Diabetic mice showed impaired wound healing with delayed angiogenesis, low breaking strength, and increased wound CD content when compared with their normal littermates. In healthy control mice, a strong induction of VEGF mRNA was found between day 3 and day 6 after injury, while no significant VEGF mRNA expression was observed at day 12 after injury. In contrast, VEGF mRNA levels, after an initial increase (day 3), were significantly lower in diabetic mice than in normal littermates, and light induction of VEGF mRNA expression was also present at day 12 after injury. Similarly, the wound content of the angiogenic factor was markedly changed in diabetic mice. Administration of raxofelast did not modify the process of wound repair in normal mice, but significantly improved the impaired wound healing in diabetic mice through the stimulation of angiogenesis, re-epithelization, and synthesis and maturation of extracellular matrix. Moreover, raxofelast treatment significantly reduced wound CD levels and increased the breaking strength of the wound. Lastly, the inhibition of lipid peroxidation restored the defect in VEGF expression during the process of skin repair in diabetic mice and normalized the VEGF wound content. The current study provides evidence that lipid peroxidation inhibition restores wound healing to nearly normal levels in experimental diabetes-impaired wounds and normalizes the defect in VEGF regulation associated with diabetes-induced skin-repair disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Italy
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48
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Sardo MA, Castaldo M, Cinquegrani M, Bonaiuto M, Maesano A, Schepis F, Zema MC, Campo GM, Squadrito F, Saitta A. Effects of simvastatin treatment on sICAM-1 and sE-selectin levels in hypercholesterolemic subjects. Atherosclerosis 2001; 155:143-7. [PMID: 11223435 DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(00)00520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study was performed to determine whether the levels of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-l) and soluble endothelial molecule-1 (sE-selectin) were elevated in subjects with hypercholesterolemia who presented with no other risk factors or evidence of atherosclerosis. The effects of administration of an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor on the serum levels of these molecules were also examined. Forty hypercholesterolemic subjects (HCh) (19 males and 21 females), without hypertension or cardiovascular disease, received placebo for 4 weeks. The patients were then randomized in two groups; 20 of them (simvastatin group) were treated with simvastatin (20 mg/day) and the other 20 (placebo group) continued placebo administration. After 12 and 24 weeks of either simvastatin or placebo treatment, sICAM-1 and sE-selectin levels were measured. The same parameters were measured in 20 control subjects (C) with normal cholesterol levels, matched for sex and age. HCh had sICAM-1 basal values higher than C (352.4+/-57.9 ng/ml versus 114.9+/-89.6 ng/ml; P<0.001); however, sE-selectin basal values were not different in the two groups. No correlation was observed between HCh sICAM-1 levels and cholesterol levels (total and low-density lipoprotein). Furthermore, cholesterol-lowering treatment with simvastatin did not significantly diminish sICAM-1 levels. Our findings would support the hypothesis that patients with isolated hypercholesterolemia and without clinical atherosclerosis may be silent carriers of arterial subendothelial inflammation, expressed as an increase of sICAM-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Sardo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Messina, Via Camiciotti 82, 98123, Messina, Italy.
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49
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Altavilla D, Saitta A, Galeano M, Squadrito G, Marino D, Minutoli L, Calapai G, Deodato B, D'Anna R, Corrado F, Caputi AP, Squadrito F. The phytoestrogen alpha-zearalenol reverses endothelial dysfunction induced by oophorectomy in rats. J Transl Med 2001; 81:125-32. [PMID: 11232633 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.3780219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been shown recently that alpha-zearalenol, a resorcyclic acid lactone, prevents bone loss in a rat model of postmenopausal bone loss. We have therefore investigated the effects of this phytoestrogen on endothelial dysfunction induced by estrogen deficiency in rats. Female mature Sprague-Dawley rats underwent a bilateral oophorectomy (OVX rats). Sham-operated animals (sham OVX rats) were used as controls. Three weeks after surgery, animals were randomized to the following treatments: alpha-zearalenol (1 mg/kg/day, i.m., for 4 weeks), 17beta-estradiol (20 microg/kg/day, i.m., for 4 weeks), or their vehicle (100 microl, i.m., of cottonseed oil). Two other groups of rats were treated with alpha-zearalenol or 17beta-estradiol plus the pure estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182780 (2.5 mg/kg/day, i.m., for 4 weeks). Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), total plasma cholesterol, plasma estradiol, and plasma alpha-zearalenol were studied. We also investigated endothelial-dependent (acetylcholine, 10 nM to 10 microM) and endothelial-independent (sodium nitroprusside, 15 nM to 30 nM) relaxation of aortic rings, as well as N(G)-methyl-L-arginine (L-NMA: 10 to 100 microM)-induced vasoconstriction and calcium-dependent nitric oxide synthase (cNOS) activity in homogenates of lungs taken from both sham OVX rats and OVX rats. Untreated OVX rats had, compared with sham OVX animals, unchanged body weight, MAP, HR, and plasma cholesterol. In contrast oophorectomy reduced plasma estradiol levels (OVX, 2 +/- 0.5 pg/ml; sham OVX, 35 +/- 6 pg/ml), impaired endothelial-dependent relaxation and blunted L-NMA-induced contraction (L-NMA 100 microM: sham OVX, 2.7 +/- 0.3 g/mg tissue; OVX, 1.3 +/- 0.1 g/mg tissue). Moreover OVX rats showed a reduced calcium-dependent NO synthase (cNOS) activity. Treatment with alpha-zearalenol or with 17beta-estradiol reverted the endothelial dysfunction and increased cNOS activity in lung homogenates. These effects were abolished by the pure estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182780. Our data suggest that alpha-zearalenol improves endothelial-dependent relaxation in OVX rats through an estrogen receptor-mediated effect.
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MESH Headings
- Acetylcholine/pharmacology
- Animals
- Aorta/physiology
- Blood Pressure/drug effects
- Body Weight/drug effects
- Endothelium, Vascular/drug effects
- Endothelium, Vascular/physiology
- Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology
- Estradiol/analogs & derivatives
- Estradiol/pharmacology
- Estrogen Antagonists/pharmacology
- Estrogens, Non-Steroidal/pharmacology
- Female
- Fulvestrant
- Heart Rate/drug effects
- In Vitro Techniques
- Isoflavones
- Lung/enzymology
- Muscle Contraction/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/physiology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/physiopathology
- Nitric Oxide Synthase/metabolism
- Nitric Oxide Synthase Type III
- Nitroprusside/pharmacology
- Organ Size/drug effects
- Ovariectomy
- Phytoestrogens
- Plant Preparations
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Reference Values
- Uterus/drug effects
- Uterus/physiology
- Zeranol/analogs & derivatives
- Zeranol/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- D Altavilla
- Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Italy.
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50
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Calapai G, Crupi A, Firenzuoli F, Marciano MC, Squadrito F, Inferrera G, Parisi A, Rizzo A, Crisafulli C, Fiore A, Caputi AP. Neuroprotective effects of Ginkgo biloba extract in brain ischemia are mediated by inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis. Life Sci 2000; 67:2673-83. [PMID: 11105983 DOI: 10.1016/s0024-3205(00)00858-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [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: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We studied the effects of pre-treatment (15 days) with oral administration of Ginkgo biloba extract (Ph-Gb 37.5-150 mg/kg) on brain malonildialdehyde (MDA), brain edema, brain nitrite and nitrate and delayed neuronal death following transient cerebral ischemia in the Mongolian gerbil. Survival was not modified, however, pre-treatment with Ginkgo biloba significantly and in a dose-dependent way reduced post-ischemic brain MDA levels and post-ischemic brain edema. Delayed neuronal death in the CA1 of the hippocampus was attenuated by the highest dose of the extract. Increase of nitrite and nitrate was observed after cerebral ischemia in the hippocampus and it was dose-dependently reduced in animals pretreated with Ph-Gb, thus suggesting that neuroprotective effects of Ginkgo biloba may be due to an inhibitory action on nitric oxide formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Calapai
- Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Torre Biologica Policlinico Universitario, Messina, Italy.
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