1
|
Breban-Schwarzkopf D, Chioibas R, Macasoi I, Bolintineanu S, Marcovici I, Draghici G, Dinu S, Buzatu R, Dehelean C, Szuhanek C. Comprehensive in vitro and in ovo assessment of cytotoxicity: Unraveling the impact of sodium fluoride, xylitol, and their synergistic associations in dental products. Biomol Biomed 2024. [PMID: 38431834 DOI: 10.17305/bb.2024.10181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, dental health products containing fluoride have been widely employed to mitigate tooth decay and promote oral hygiene. However, concerns regarding the potential toxicological repercussions of fluoride exposure have incited continuous scientific inquiry. The current study investigated the cytotoxicity of sodium fluoride (NaF) and xylitol (Xyl), both individually and in combination, utilizing human keratinocyte (HaCaT) and osteosarcoma (SAOS-2) cell lines. In HaCaT cells, NaF decreased proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner and induced apoptosis-related morphological changes at low concentrations, whereas Xyl exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxic effects. The combination of NaF and Xyl reduced cell viability, particularly at higher concentrations, accompanied by apoptosis-like morphological alterations. Sub-cytotoxic NaF concentrations (0.2%) significantly affected caspase activity and the expression of pro-apoptotic genes. Conversely, Xyl demonstrated no discernible effect on these biological parameters. In SAOS-2 cells, NaF increased proliferation at high concentrations, contrasting with Xyl's concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects. The combination of NaF and Xyl had a minimal impact on cell viability. Sub-cytotoxic NaF concentrations did not influence caspase activity or gene expression, while Xyl induced dose-dependent morphological alterations, increased caspase activity, and upregulated pro-apoptotic gene expression. In ovo experiments on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) revealed that only NaF induced irritant effects, suggesting potential vascular adverse outcomes. This study advocates for the combined use of NaF and Xyl, highlighting their cytotoxicity benefits in healthy cells while maintaining safety considerations for tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Breban-Schwarzkopf
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Raul Chioibas
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Macasoi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania; Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Sorin Bolintineanu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania; Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - George Draghici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania; Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Stefania Dinu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania; Pediatric Dentistry Research Center, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Buzatu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania; Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Camelia Szuhanek
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania; Orthodontic research center (ORTHO-CENTER), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Marcovici I, Vlad D, Buzatu R, Popovici RA, Cosoroaba RM, Chioibas R, Geamantan A, Dehelean C. Rutin Linoleate Triggers Oxidative Stress-Mediated Cytoplasmic Vacuolation in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:215. [PMID: 38398724 PMCID: PMC10890525 DOI: 10.3390/life14020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) represents one of the most prevalent health issues globally and is a leading cause of tumor-related mortality. Despite being one the most attractive compounds of plant origin due to its numerous biological properties, the therapeutic applications of rutin (RUT) are limited by its disadvantageous pharmacokinetics. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate in vitro the application of two RUT fatty acids bioconjugates, rutin oleate (RUT-O) and rutin linoleate (RUT-L), as potential improved RUT-based chemotherapeutics in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment. The results indicate that both compounds lacked cytotoxic potential in EpiAirway™ tissues at concentrations up to 125 µM. However, only RUT-L exerted anti-tumorigenic activity in NCI-H23 NSCLC cells after 24 h of treatment by reducing cell viability (up to 47%), proliferation, and neutral red uptake, causing cell membrane damage and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, affecting cytoskeletal distribution, inducing cytoplasmic vacuolation, and increasing oxidative stress. The cytopathic effects triggered by RUT-L at 100 and 125 µM are indicators of a non-apoptotic cell death pathway that resembles the characteristics of paraptosis. The novel findings of this study stand as a basis for further investigations on the anti-cancer properties of RUT-L and their underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daliborca Vlad
- Discipline of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Buzatu
- Department of Dentofacial Aesthetics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ramona Amina Popovici
- Department of Management, Legislation and Communication in Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Raluca Mioara Cosoroaba
- Department of Management, Legislation and Communication in Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Raul Chioibas
- Department of Surgery I, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Geamantan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Racea RC, Macasoi IG, Dinu S, Pinzaru I, Marcovici I, Dehelean C, Rusu LC, Chioran D, Rivis M, Buzatu R. Eugenol: In Vitro and In Ovo Assessment to Explore Cytotoxic Effects on Osteosarcoma and Oropharyngeal Cancer Cells. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:3549. [PMID: 37896013 PMCID: PMC10610311 DOI: 10.3390/plants12203549] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a significant health problem worldwide; consequently, new therapeutic alternatives are being investigated, including those found in the vegetable kingdom. Eugenol (Eug) has attracted attention for its therapeutic properties, especially in stomatology. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cytotoxicity of Eug, in vitro, on osteosarcoma (SAOS-2) and oropharyngeal squamous cancer (Detroit-562) cells, as well as its potential irritant effect in ovo at the level of the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). The data obtained following a 72 h Eug treatment highlighted the reduction in cell viability up to 41% in SAOS-2 cells and up to 37% in Detroit-562 cells, respectively. The apoptotic-like effect of Eug was indicated by the changes in cell morphology and nuclear aspect; the increase in caspase-3/7, -8 and -9 activity; the elevated expression of Bax and Bad genes; and the increase in luminescence signal (indicating phosphatidylserine externalization) that preceded the increase in fluorescence signal (indicating the compromise of membrane integrity). Regarding the vascular effects, slight signs of coagulation and vascular lysis were observed, with an irritation score of 1.69 for Eug 1 mM. Based on these results, the efficiency of Eug in cancer treatment is yet to be clarified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert-Cosmin Racea
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania; (R.-C.R.); (L.-C.R.); (D.C.); (M.R.); (R.B.)
- Multidisciplinary Center for Research, Evaluation, Diagnosis and Therapies in Oral Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana-Gabriela Macasoi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.-G.M.); (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Stefania Dinu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania; (R.-C.R.); (L.-C.R.); (D.C.); (M.R.); (R.B.)
- Pediatric Dentistry Research Center, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 No., Revolutiei Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.-G.M.); (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.-G.M.); (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.-G.M.); (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Laura-Cristina Rusu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania; (R.-C.R.); (L.-C.R.); (D.C.); (M.R.); (R.B.)
- Multidisciplinary Center for Research, Evaluation, Diagnosis and Therapies in Oral Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Doina Chioran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania; (R.-C.R.); (L.-C.R.); (D.C.); (M.R.); (R.B.)
| | - Mircea Rivis
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania; (R.-C.R.); (L.-C.R.); (D.C.); (M.R.); (R.B.)
| | - Roxana Buzatu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania; (R.-C.R.); (L.-C.R.); (D.C.); (M.R.); (R.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ionita I, Malita D, Dehelean C, Olteanu E, Marcovici I, Geamantan A, Chiriac S, Roman A, Radu D. Experimental Models for Rare Melanoma Research-The Niche That Needs to Be Addressed. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:673. [PMID: 37370604 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060673] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma, the tumor arising from the malignant transformation of pigment-producing cells-the melanocytes-represents one of the most severe cancer types. Despite their rarity compared to cutaneous melanoma, the extracutaneous subtypes such as uveal melanoma (UM), acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), and mucosal melanoma (MM) stand out due to their increased aggressiveness and mortality rate, demanding continuous research to elucidate their specific pathological features and develop efficient therapies. Driven by the emerging progresses made in the preclinical modeling of melanoma, the current paper covers the most relevant in vitro, in vivo, and in ovo systems, providing a deeper understanding of these rare melanoma subtypes. However, the preclinical models for UM, ALM, and MM that were developed so far remain scarce, and none of them is able to completely simulate the complexity that is characteristic to these melanomas; thus, a continuous expansion of the existing library of experimental models is pivotal for driving advancements in this research field. An overview of the applicability of precision medicine in the management of rare melanoma subtypes is also provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Ionita
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Malita
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Emilian Olteanu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Personalized Medicine of Respiratory Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Geamantan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Sorin Chiriac
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andrea Roman
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniela Radu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gag O, Dinu Ș, Manea H, Marcovici I, Pînzaru I, Popovici R, Crăiniceanu Z, Gyori Z, Iovănescu G, Chiriac S. UVA/UVB Irradiation Exerts a Distinct Phototoxic Effect on Human Keratinocytes Compared to Human Malignant Melanoma Cells. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051144. [PMID: 37240789 DOI: 10.3390/life13051144] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is responsible for the development of many skin diseases, including malignant melanoma (MM). This study assessed the phototoxic effects of UVA, and UVB radiations on healthy and pathologic skin cells by evaluating the behavior of human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and MM cells (A375) at 24 h post-irradiation. The main results showed that UVA 10 J/cm2 exerted no cytotoxicity on HaCaT and A375 cells, while UVB 0.5 J/cm2 significantly reduced cell viability and confluence, induced cell shrinkage and rounding, generated nuclear and F-actin condensation, and induced apoptosis by modulating the expressions of Bax and Bcl-2. The association of UVA 10 J/cm2 with UVB 0.5 J/cm2 (UVA/UVB) induced the highest cytotoxicity in both cell lines (viability < 40%). However, the morphological changes were different-HaCaT cells showed signs of necrosis, while in A375 nuclear polarization and expulsion from the cells were observed, features that indicate enucleation. By unraveling the impact of different UVR treatments on the behavior of normal and cancer skin cells and describing enucleation as a novel process involved in the cytotoxicity of UVA/UVB irradiation, these findings bridge the gap between the current and the future status of research in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Otilia Gag
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ștefania Dinu
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Horațiu Manea
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Pînzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ramona Popovici
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zorin Crăiniceanu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zsolt Gyori
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Gheorghe Iovănescu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Sorin Chiriac
- Faculty of Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kardaras G, Marcovici I, Rusu D, Dehelean C, Coricovac D, Iorio-Siciliano V, Sculean A, Stratul SI. In-Vitro Safety Evaluation of Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) as Part of Step 2 and Maintenance Therapy Protocols in Patients with Periodontitis Stages III-IV. Oral Health Prev Dent 2023; 21:103-112. [PMID: 37014214 DOI: 10.3290/j.ohpd.b4009557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Since NaOCl acts as a strong oxidizing agent and presents potential toxicity, this study was adressed to evaluate the in-vitro safety of NaOCl solutions at concentrations below the limit of patient tolerance, i.e. ≥ 0.5%. MATERIALS AND METHODS First, an in-silico evaluation was conducted to predict the potential toxicity of NaOCl in terms of mutagenic, tumorigenic, irritant, and reproductive risks, as well as some drug-like properties of the molecule. The in-vitro experiments were based on 2D and 3D models. For the 2D approach, two selected cell lines - HaCaT (human skin keratinocytes) and HGF (human gingival fibroblasts) - were exposed to NaOCl at five concentrations (0.05 - 0.5%) for 10, 30, and 60 s to simulate possible clinical administration. The irritative potential of NaOCl 0.05% and 0.25% was assessed in a 3D in-vitro model (EpiDerm, reconstructed human epidermis). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS The main findings suggest that NaOCl exerts cytotoxicity towards HaCaT immortalised keratinocytes and HGF primary gingival fibroblasts in a cell type-, dose- and time-dependent manner, with the most prominent effect being recorded in HaCaT cells after 60 s of treatment with NaOCl 0.5%. However, NaOCl was computationally predicted as free of mutagenic, tumorigenic, irritant, and reproductive toxicity, and showed no irritative potential in 3D reconstructed epidermis at concentrations of 0.05% and 0.25%. CONCLUSION Further clinical and histological studies are required to confirm these results, as well as elucidate the potential cytotoxic mechanism induced by NaOCl in HaCaT and HGF cells at the tested concentrations.
Collapse
|
7
|
Dehelean CA, Coricovac D, Pinzaru I, Marcovici I, Macasoi IG, Semenescu A, Lazar G, Cinta Pinzaru S, Radulov I, Alexa E, Cretu O. Rutin bioconjugates as potential nutraceutical prodrugs: An in vitro and in ovo toxicological screening. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1000608. [PMID: 36210849 PMCID: PMC9538480 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1000608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rutin (RUT) is considered one the most attractive flavonoids from a therapeutic perspective due to its multispectral pharmacological activities including antiradical, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antimetastatic among others. Still, this compound presents a low bioavailability what narrows its clinical applications. To overcome this inconvenience, the current paper was focused on the synthesis, characterization, and toxicological assessment of two RUT bioconjugates obtained by enzymatic esterification with oleic acid (OA) and linoleic acid (LA)—rutin oleate (RUT-O) and rutin linoleate (RUT-L), as flavonoid precursors with improved physicochemical and biological properties. Following the enzymatic synthesis in the presence of Novozyme® 435, the two bioconjugates were obtained, their formation being confirmed by RAMAN and FT-IR spectroscopy. The in vitro and in ovo toxicological assessment of RUT bioconjugates (1–100 µM) was performed using 2D consecrated cell lines (cardiomyoblasts - H9c2(2-1), hepatocytes—HepaRG, and keratinocytes—HaCaT), 3D reconstructed human epidermis tissue (EpiDerm™), and chick chorioallantoic membranes, respectively. The results obtained were test compound, concentration—and cell-type dependent, as follows: RUT-O reduced the viability of H9c2(2-1), HepaRG, and HaCaT cells at 100 µM (to 77.53%, 83.17%, and 78.32%, respectively), and induced cell rounding and floating, as well as apoptotic-like features in the nuclei of all cell lines, whereas RUT-L exerted no signs of cytotoxicity in all cell lines in terms of cell viability, morphology, and nuclear integrity. Both RUT esters impaired the migration of HepaRG cells (at 25 µM) and lack irritative potential (at 100 µM) in vitro (tissue viability >50%) and in ovo (irritation scores of 0.70 for RUT-O, and 0.49 for RUT-L, respectively). Computational predictions revealed an increased lipophilicity, and reduced solubility, drug-likeness and drug score of RUT-O and RUT-L compared to their parent compounds—RUT, OA, and LA. In conclusion, we report a favorable toxicological profile for RUT-L, while RUT-O is dosage-limited since at high concentrations were noticed cytotoxic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Faculty of Food Engineering, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of România”, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- *Correspondence: Iulia Pinzaru,
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Gabriela Macasoi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Semenescu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Geza Lazar
- ”Ioan Ursu” Institute of the Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Simona Cinta Pinzaru
- ”Ioan Ursu” Institute of the Faculty of Physics, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Isidora Radulov
- Faculty of Agriculture, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of România”, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Ersilia Alexa
- Faculty of Food Engineering, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of România”, Timişoara, Romania
| | - Octavian Cretu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Coricovac D, Pinzaru I, Marcovici I, Iftode A, Moaca A, Macasoi I, Vlaia L, Dehelean C. P12-51 Betulinic acid formulated as proniosomal gel – a promising candidate for skin cancer management. Toxicol Lett 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.07.530] [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: 10/14/2022]
|
9
|
Rednic R, Marcovici I, Dragoi R, Pinzaru I, Dehelean CA, Tomescu M, Arnautu DA, Craina M, Gluhovschi A, Valcovici M, Manea A. In Vitro Toxicological Profile of Labetalol-Folic Acid/Folate Co-Administration in H9c2(2-1) and HepaRG Cells. Medicina (Kaunas) 2022; 58:medicina58060784. [PMID: 35744047 PMCID: PMC9229417 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58060784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The consumption of dietary supplements has increased over the last decades among pregnant women, becoming an efficient resource of micronutrients able to satisfy their nutritional needs during pregnancy. Furthermore, gestational drug administration might be necessary to treat several pregnancy complications such as hypertension. Folic acid (FA) and folate (FT) supplementation is highly recommended by clinicians during pregnancy, especially for preventing neural tube birth defects, while labetalol (LB) is a β-blocker commonly administered as a safe option for the treatment of pregnancy-related hypertension. Currently, the possible toxicity resulting from the co-administration of FA/FT and LB has not been fully evaluated. In light of these considerations, the current study was aimed at investigating the possible in vitro cardio- and hepato-toxicity of LB-FA and LB-FT associations. Materials and Methods: Five different concentrations of LB, FA, FT, and their combination were used in myoblasts and hepatocytes in order to assess cell viability, cell morphology, and wound regeneration. Results: The results indicate no significant alterations in terms of cell viability and morphology in myoblasts (H9c2(2-1)) and hepatocytes (HepaRG) following a 72-h treatment, apart from a decrease in the percentage of viable H9c2(2-1) cells (~67%) treated with LB 150 nM−FT 50 nM. Additionally, LB (50 and 150 nM)−FA (0.2 nM) exerted an efficient wound regenerating potential in H9c2(2-1) myoblasts (wound healing rates were >80%, compared to the control at 66%), while LB-FT (at all tested concentrations) induced no significant impairment to their migration. Conclusions: Overall, our findings indicate that LB-FA and LB-FT combinations lack cytotoxicity in vitro. Moreover, beneficial effects were noticed on H9c2(2-1) cell viability and migration from LB-FA/FT administration, which should be further explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rednic
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Razvan Dragoi
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: (R.D.); (I.P.)
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (R.D.); (I.P.)
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Tomescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| | - Diana Aurora Arnautu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| | - Marius Craina
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| | - Adrian Gluhovschi
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| | - Mihaela Valcovici
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| | - Aniko Manea
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No.2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.R.); (M.T.); (D.A.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.V.); (A.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Marcovici I, Coricovac D, Pinzaru I, Macasoi IG, Popescu R, Chioibas R, Zupko I, Dehelean CA. Melanin and Melanin-Functionalized Nanoparticles as Promising Tools in Cancer Research-A Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1838. [PMID: 35406610 PMCID: PMC8998143 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer poses an ongoing global challenge, despite the substantial progress made in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. The existing therapeutic methods remain limited by undesirable outcomes such as systemic toxicity and lack of specificity or long-term efficacy, although innovative alternatives are being continuously investigated. By offering a means for the targeted delivery of therapeutics, nanotechnology (NT) has emerged as a state-of-the-art solution for augmenting the efficiency of currently available cancer therapies while combating their drawbacks. Melanin, a polymeric pigment of natural origin that is widely spread among many living organisms, became a promising candidate for NT-based cancer treatment owing to its unique physicochemical properties (e.g., high biocompatibility, redox behavior, light absorption, chelating ability) and innate antioxidant, photoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects. The latest research on melanin and melanin-like nanoparticles has extended considerably on many fronts, allowing not only efficient cancer treatments via both traditional and modern methods, but also early disease detection and diagnosis. The current paper provides an updated insight into the applicability of melanin in cancer therapy as antitumor agent, molecular target, and delivery nanoplatform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (D.C.); (I.G.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (D.C.); (I.G.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (D.C.); (I.G.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Gabriela Macasoi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (D.C.); (I.G.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Popescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.P.); (R.C.)
- Research Center ANAPATMOL, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Raul Chioibas
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.P.); (R.C.)
| | - Istvan Zupko
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Eötvös u. 6, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (D.C.); (I.G.M.); (C.A.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dinu S, Craciunescu EL, Macasoi I, Chioran D, Rivis M, Vlad D, Milutinovici RA, Marcovici I, Dolghi A, Moaca A, Dinu DC, Dehelean C, Popa M. Toxicological Assessment of an Acrylic Removable Orthodontic Appliance Using 2D and 3D In Vitro Methods. Materials 2022; 15:ma15031193. [PMID: 35161136 PMCID: PMC8838812 DOI: 10.3390/ma15031193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Malocclusion is a global health problem, mainly affecting children and adolescents. For this reason, orthodontic treatment must be, on the one hand, safe, non-toxic, and effective and, on the other hand, it must have the best possible esthetic profile. Thus, the use of orthodontic appliances is addressed to all age groups, including young children, for a long period of time, which is why their safety profile is a matter of real interest. For this reason, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety and biocompatibility of an acrylic removable orthodontic appliance made of polymethylmethacrylate and stainless steel alloy made by our team of researchers. To verify the biocompatibility of the medical device, it was immersed in artificial saliva with three different pHs (3, 7, and 10) for a period of ten days. Subsequently, the three types of saliva were tested on human keratinocytes (HaCaT cell line) in terms of viability and modification of cell morphology. Finally, the use of 3D reconstructed human epidermis verified the cytotoxic and irritating potential of the medical device, thus providing relevant information regarding its biocompatibility. The results revealed that by maintaining the orthodontic device in the saliva there is no release of substances with a toxic effect on the human keratinocytes and on the 3D reconstructed human epidermis. There were also no significant changes in cell morphology. In conclusion, it is suggested that the acrylic removable appliance has a safety profile recommended for in vivo use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Dinu
- Department of Pedodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 No., Revolutiei 1989 Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.D.); (M.P.)
- Pediatric Dentistry Research Center, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 No., Revolutiei Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Emanuela Lidia Craciunescu
- Department of Prostheses Technology and Dental Material, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 No., Revolutiei 1989 Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Romania Research Center in Dental Medicine Using Conventional and Alternative Technologies, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 No., Revolutiei Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Macasoi
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.M.); (A.D.); (A.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Doina Chioran
- Department of Dento-Alveolar Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Mircea Rivis
- Department of Anesthesiology and Sedation in Dentistry, Dento-Alveolar Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Daliborca Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry-Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Raluca Adriana Milutinovici
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 Revolutiei 1989 Ave., 300070 Timisoara, Romania;
- Orthodontic Research Center (ORTHO-CENTER), Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Revolutiei Ave. 1989 No. 9, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.M.); (A.D.); (A.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alina Dolghi
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.M.); (A.D.); (A.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alina Moaca
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.M.); (A.D.); (A.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorin Cristian Dinu
- Family Dental Clinic, Private Practice, 24 Budapesta Str., 307160 Dumbravita, Romania;
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.M.); (A.D.); (A.M.); (C.D.)
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Malina Popa
- Department of Pedodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 No., Revolutiei 1989 Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.D.); (M.P.)
- Pediatric Dentistry Research Center, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 9 No., Revolutiei Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pinzaru I, Chioibas R, Marcovici I, Coricovac D, Susan R, Predut D, Georgescu D, Dehelean C. Rutin Exerts Cytotoxic and Senescence-Inducing Properties in Human Melanoma Cells. Toxics 2021; 9:toxics9090226. [PMID: 34564377 PMCID: PMC8472636 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9090226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma represents the deadliest type of skin cancer with narrow treatment options in advanced stages. Herbal constituents possessing anticancer properties occupy a particular spot in melanoma research as potential chemotherapeutics. Rutin (RUT) is a natural compound exerting antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, UV-filtering, and SPF-enhancing activities that are beneficial to the skin; however, its effect as an anti-melanoma agent is less investigated. The current study is focused on assessing the cytotoxic potential of RUT against two different human melanoma cell lines: RPMI-7951 and SK-MEL-28 by evaluating its impact in terms of cell viability, cells’ morphology, and nuclear aspect assessment, and senescence-inducing properties. The results indicate a dose-dependent decrease in the viability of both cell lines, with calculated IC50 values of 64.49 ± 13.27 µM for RPMI-7951 cells and 47.44 ± 2.41 µM for SK-MEL-28, respectively, accompanied by a visible reduction in the cell confluency and apoptotic features within the cell nuclei. RUT exerted a senescence-inducing property highlighted by the elevated expression of senescent-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) in SK-MEL-28 cells. Despite the in vitro anti-melanoma effect revealed by our results, further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms of RUT-induced cytotoxicity and senescence in melanoma cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Pinzaru
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Raul Chioibas
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.C.); (D.G.)
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (R.S.); Tel.: +40-743-092-959 (D.C.); +40-744-337-091 (R.S.)
| | - Razvan Susan
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.C.); (D.G.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (R.S.); Tel.: +40-743-092-959 (D.C.); +40-744-337-091 (R.S.)
| | - Denisa Predut
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Doina Georgescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.C.); (D.G.)
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Blidisel A, Marcovici I, Coricovac D, Hut F, Dehelean CA, Cretu OM. Experimental Models of Hepatocellular Carcinoma-A Preclinical Perspective. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3651. [PMID: 34359553 PMCID: PMC8344976 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most frequent form of primary liver carcinoma, is a heterogenous and complex tumor type with increased incidence, poor prognosis, and high mortality. The actual therapeutic arsenal is narrow and poorly effective, rendering this disease a global health concern. Although considerable progress has been made in terms of understanding the pathogenesis, molecular mechanisms, genetics, and therapeutical approaches, several facets of human HCC remain undiscovered. A valuable and prompt approach to acquire further knowledge about the unrevealed aspects of HCC and novel therapeutic candidates is represented by the application of experimental models. Experimental models (in vivo and in vitro 2D and 3D models) are considered reliable tools to gather data for clinical usability. This review offers an overview of the currently available preclinical models frequently applied for the study of hepatocellular carcinoma in terms of initiation, development, and progression, as well as for the discovery of efficient treatments, highlighting the advantages and the limitations of each model. Furthermore, we also focus on the role played by computational studies (in silico models and artificial intelligence-based prediction models) as promising novel tools in liver cancer research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Blidisel
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (A.B.); (F.H.); (O.M.C.)
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Florin Hut
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (A.B.); (F.H.); (O.M.C.)
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Octavian Marius Cretu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (A.B.); (F.H.); (O.M.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pârvănescu (Pană) RD, Watz CG, Moacă EA, Vlaia L, Marcovici I, Macașoi IG, Borcan F, Olariu I, Coneac G, Drăghici GA, Crăiniceanu Z, Flondor (Ionescu) D, Enache A, Dehelean CA. Oleogel Formulations for the Topical Delivery of Betulin and Lupeol in Skin Injuries-Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization, and Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26144174. [PMID: 34299450 PMCID: PMC8305438 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The skin integrity is essential due to its pivotal role as a biological barrier against external noxious factors. Pentacyclic triterpenes stand as valuable plant-derived natural compounds in the treatment of skin injuries due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and healing properties. Consequently, the primary aim of the current investigation was the development as well as the physicochemical and pharmaco-toxicological characterization of betulin- and lupeol-based oleogels (Bet OG and Lup OG) for topical application in skin injuries. The results revealed suitable pH as well as organoleptic, rheological, and textural properties. The penetration and permeation of Bet and Lup oleogels through porcine ear skin as well as the retention of both oleogels in the skin were demonstrated through ex vivo studies. In vitro, Bet OG and Lup OG showed good biocompatibility on HaCaT human immortalized cells. Moreover, Bet OG exerted a potent wound-healing property by stimulating the migration of the HaCaT cells. The in ovo results demonstrated the non-irritative potential of the developed formulations. Additionally, the undertaken in vivo investigation indicated a positive effect of oleogels treatment on skin parameters by increasing skin hydration and decreasing erythema. In conclusion, oleogel formulations are ideal for the local delivery of betulin and lupeol in skin disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Daniela Pârvănescu (Pană)
- Department VIII—Neuroscience, Discipline of Medical Deontology, Bioethics, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Claudia-Geanina Watz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Physics, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Elena-Alina Moacă
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.-A.M.); (L.V.); Tel.: +40-745-762-600 (E.-A.M.); +40-723-570-499 (L.V.)
| | - Lavinia Vlaia
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.O.); (G.C.)
- Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (E.-A.M.); (L.V.); Tel.: +40-745-762-600 (E.-A.M.); +40-723-570-499 (L.V.)
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Gabriela Macașoi
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin Borcan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Ioana Olariu
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.O.); (G.C.)
- Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Georgeta Coneac
- Department II—Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.O.); (G.C.)
- Formulation and Technology of Drugs Research Center, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - George-Andrei Drăghici
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Zorin Crăiniceanu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Daniela Flondor (Ionescu)
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Enache
- Department VIII—Neuroscience, Discipline of Forensic Medicine, Bioethics, Deontology and Medical Law, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Research Centre for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluation, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.M.); (I.G.M.); (G.-A.D.); (D.F.); (C.A.D.)
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Square, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Simu S, Marcovici I, Dobrescu A, Malita D, Dehelean CA, Coricovac D, Olaru F, Draghici GA, Navolan D. Insights into the Behavior of Triple-Negative MDA-MB-231 Breast Carcinoma Cells Following the Treatment with 17β-Ethinylestradiol and Levonorgestrel. Molecules 2021; 26:2776. [PMID: 34066763 PMCID: PMC8125870 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used due to their efficiency in preventing unplanned pregnancies and treating several human illnesses. Despite their medical value, the toxicity of OCs remains a public concern. Previous studies indicate the carcinogenic potential of synthetic sex hormones and their link to the development and progression of hormone-dependent malignancies such as breast cancer. However, little is known about their influence on the evolution of triple-negative breast carcinoma (TNBC), a malignancy defined by the absence of estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. This study reveals that the active ingredients of modern OCs, 17β-Ethinylestradiol, Levonorgestrel, and their combination induce differential effects in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells. The most relevant behavioral changes occurred after the 24 h treatment with 17β-Ethinylestradiol, summarized as follows: (i) decreased cell viability (64.32% at 10 µM); (ii) cell roundness and loss of confluence; (iii) apoptotic aspect of cell nuclei (fragmentation, membrane blebbing); and (iv) inhibited cell migration, suggesting a potential anticancer effect. Conversely, Levonorgestrel was generally associated with a proliferative activity. The association of the two OCs exerted similar effects as 17β-Ethinylestradiol but was less effective. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the hormones' cytotoxic mechanism of action on TNBC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Simu
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.S.); (I.M.); (C.A.D.); (D.C.); (G.A.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.S.); (I.M.); (C.A.D.); (D.C.); (G.A.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Amadeus Dobrescu
- Faculty of Medicine, 2nd Department of Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Malita
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.S.); (I.M.); (C.A.D.); (D.C.); (G.A.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.S.); (I.M.); (C.A.D.); (D.C.); (G.A.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Flavius Olaru
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.O.); (D.N.)
| | - George Andrei Draghici
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.S.); (I.M.); (C.A.D.); (D.C.); (G.A.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dan Navolan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.O.); (D.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pinzaru I, Tanase A, Enatescu V, Coricovac D, Bociort F, Marcovici I, Watz C, Vlaia L, Soica C, Dehelean C. Proniosomal Gel for Topical Delivery of Rutin: Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro Toxicological Profile Using 3D Reconstructed Human Epidermis Tissue and 2D Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10010085. [PMID: 33435216 PMCID: PMC7827235 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rutin (Rut) is a natural flavonol, well-known for its broad-spectrum of therapeutic effects, including antioxidant and antitumoral activities; still, it has a reduced clinical outcome due to its limited solubility in aqueous solutions. To overcome this drawback, this study proposes a novel formulation for rutin as a proniosomal gel for cutaneous applications. The gel was prepared by coacervation phase-separation method and complies with the standard requirements in terms of particle size (140.5 ± 2.56 nm), zeta potential (−27.33 ± 0.09 mV), encapsulation capacity (> 50%), pH (7.002 ± 0.18) and rheological properties. The results showed high biocompatibility of the gel on the 3D reconstructed human epidermis model characterized by increased viability of the cells and a lack of irritant and phototoxic potential. The evaluations on 2D cells confirm the preferential cytotoxic effect of Rut on melanoma cells (IC50 value = 8.601 µM, nuclear fragmentation) compared to normal keratinocytes. Our data suggest that the proniosomal gel is a promising drug carrier for Rut in the management and prevention of skin disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Pinzaru
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Alina Tanase
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei Bv., Sq., 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Virgil Enatescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Correspondence: (V.E.); (D.C.); Tel.: +40-723-374896 (V.E.); +40-256-494604 (D.C.)
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (V.E.); (D.C.); Tel.: +40-723-374896 (V.E.); +40-256-494604 (D.C.)
| | - Flavia Bociort
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Claudia Watz
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Lavinia Vlaia
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Codruta Soica
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.W.); (L.V.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pinzaru I, Sarau C, Coricovac D, Marcovici I, Utescu C, Tofan S, Popovici RA, Manea HC, Pavel IE, Soica C, Dehelean C. Silver Nanocolloids Loaded with Betulinic Acid with Enhanced Antitumor Potential: Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2021; 11:E152. [PMID: 33435422 PMCID: PMC7828030 DOI: 10.3390/nano11010152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Betulinic acid (BA), a natural compound with various health benefits including selective antitumor activity, has a limited applicability in vivo due to its poor water solubility and bioavailability. Thus, this study focused on obtaining a BA nano-sized formulation with improved solubility and enhanced antitumor activity using silver nanocolloids (SilCo and PEG_SilCo) as drug carriers. The synthesis was performed using a chemical method and the physicochemical characterization was achieved applying UV-Vis absorption, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS). The biological evaluation was conducted on two in vitro experimental models-hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and lung cancer (A549) cell lines. The physicochemical characterization showed the following results: an average hydrodynamic diameter of 32 nm for SilCo_BA and 71 nm for PEG_SilCo_BA, a spherical shape, and a loading capacity of 54.1% for SilCo_BA and 61.9% for PEG_SilCo_BA, respectively. The in vitro assessment revealed a cell type- and time-dependent cytotoxic effect characterized by a decrease in cell viability as follows: (i) SilCo_BA (66.44%) < PEG_SilCo_BA (72.05%) < BA_DMSO (75.30%) in HepG2 cells, and (ii) SilCo_BA (75.28%) < PEG_SilCo_BA (86.80%) < BA_DMSO (87.99%) in A549 cells. The novel silver nanocolloids loaded with BA induced an augmented anticancer effect as compared to BA alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Pinzaru
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Sarau
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.S.); (C.U.)
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Crinela Utescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.S.); (C.U.)
| | - Sergiu Tofan
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.T.); (R.A.P.)
| | - Ramona Amina Popovici
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 9 Revolutiei Bv., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.T.); (R.A.P.)
| | - Horatiu Cristian Manea
- Faculty of Medicine, “Vasile Goldiș” Western University of Arad, 94 Revolutiei Bv., 310025 Arad, Romania;
- Timisoara Municipal Emergency Clinical Hospital, 5 Take Ionescu Bv., 300062 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana E. Pavel
- Department of Chemistry, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45435-0001, USA;
| | - Codruta Soica
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (I.M.); (C.S.); (C.D.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, RO-300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Iftode A, Drăghici GA, Macașoi I, Marcovici I, Coricovac DE, Dragoi R, Tischer A, Kovatsi L, Tsatsakis AM, Cretu O, Dehelean C. Exposure to cadmium and copper triggers cytotoxic effects and epigenetic changes in human colorectal carcinoma HT-29 cells. Exp Ther Med 2020; 21:100. [PMID: 33363611 PMCID: PMC7725023 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent scientific evidence suggests a link between epigenetic changes (DNA methylation) and tumorigenesis. Moreover, a potential carcinogenic mechanism of cadmium was associated with changes in DNA methylation. In this study we investigated the impact of CdCl2 and CuSO4 aqueous solutions on DNA methylation in HT-29 cells by quantifying DNA methyltransferase (DNMT1, DNMT3A and DNMT3B) mRNA expression. Furthermore, we also studied the cytotoxic and anti-migratory potential of these substances. The results showed a dose-dependent decrease of viable cell percentage following 24 h of exposure (at concentrations of 0.05; 0.2; 1; 10 and 100 µg/ml), and an inhibitory effect on HT-29 cell migration capacity. In addition, RT-qPCR results showed that cadmium acts as a hypomethylating agent by suppressing DNMT expression, whereas copper acts as a hypermethylating compound by increasing DNMT expression. These findings suggest a cytotoxic potential of both cadmium and copper on HT-29 cells and their capacity to induce epigenetic changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrada Iftode
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - George Andrei Drăghici
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Macașoi
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina E Coricovac
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Razvan Dragoi
- Department of Balneology, Rehabilitation and Rheumatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alina Tischer
- Department of Surgery I, Faculty of Medicine, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Leda Kovatsi
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aristidis M Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Octavian Cretu
- Department of Surgery I, Faculty of Medicine, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristina Dehelean
- Department of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Dehelean CA, Lazureanu V, Coricovac D, Mioc M, Oancea R, Marcovici I, Pinzaru I, Soica C, Tsatsakis AM, Cretu O. SARS-CoV-2: Repurposed Drugs and Novel Therapeutic Approaches-Insights into Chemical Structure-Biological Activity and Toxicological Screening. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E2084. [PMID: 32630746 PMCID: PMC7409030 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) pandemic represents the primary public health concern nowadays, and great efforts are made worldwide for efficient management of this crisis. Considerable scientific progress was recorded regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection in terms of genomic structure, diagnostic tools, viral transmission, mechanism of viral infection, symptomatology, clinical impact, and complications, but these data evolve constantly. Up to date, neither an effective vaccine nor SARS-CoV-2 specific antiviral agents have been approved, but significant advances were enlisted in this direction by investigating repurposed approved drugs (ongoing clinical trials) or developing innovative antiviral drugs (preclinical and clinical studies). This review presents a thorough analysis of repurposed drug admitted for compassionate use from a chemical structure-biological activity perspective highlighting the ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) properties and the toxicophore groups linked to potential adverse effects. A detailed pharmacological description of the novel potential anti-COVID-19 therapeutics was also included. In addition, a comprehensible overview of SARS-CoV-2 infection in terms of general description and structure, mechanism of viral infection, and clinical impact was portrayed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (I.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Voichita Lazureanu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.L.); (O.C.)
- “Dr. Victor Babes” Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pneumophthisiology, 300310 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Coricovac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (I.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Marius Mioc
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (I.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Roxana Oancea
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Iasmina Marcovici
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (I.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (I.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Codruta Soica
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.A.D.); (I.M.); (I.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Aristidis M. Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece;
| | - Octavian Cretu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.L.); (O.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Bratu T, Berceanu M, Coricovac D, Crainiceanu Z, Gyori Z, Roman A, Marcovici I, Dehelean C, Pinzaru I. Melanin Quantification by Chemical Methods in Healthy and Melanoma Cell Lines Correlated with the Importance in the Development of Melanoma. Rev Chim 2020. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.20.4.8084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade, the incidence of skin cancer has increased significantly and there is data that rank it as the most common form of malignancy in humans. Among the classified skin cancers, melanoma is the most severe with a significant mortality rate. The determining factor in the occurrence of skin cancer is generally recognised to be ultraviolet radiation. Skin pigmentation has been shown to provide a high degree of protection and this is due to melanin. In order to be able to consider certain hypotheses and to develop new approaches to melanoma, in this study it was studied the melanin content in certain cell types that have a direct connection with melanoma. The cell lines used in the study were: (i) human melanoma cell lines: A375, SK-MEL-1, SK-MEL-3, SK-MEL-5, SK-MEL-28, SH-4, and COLO 829; (ii) mouse melanoma cell lines: B164A5, B16F0, and B16F10; and (iii) healthy cell lines of human origin: HEMa (primary melanocytes), HaCaT (immortalised keratinocytes) and 1BR3 (human fibroblasts). The results obtained pointed out that A375, SK-MEL-28 and SK-MEL-5 cells do not produce melanin, SK-MEL-1, SH-4 and SK-MEL-3 cells produce melanin while COLO 829 cells � only in small passages produce melanin. Of the 3 lines of murine melanoma tested, the one that produces melanin in a higher concentration is B16F10, followed by B16F0 and B164A5.
Collapse
|
21
|
Farcas CG, Moaca EA, Dragoi R, Berceanu Vaduva D, Marcovici I, Mihali CV, Loghin F. Preliminary Results of Betulinic Acid-Loaded Magnetoliposomes - a Potential Approach to Increase Therapeutic Efficacy in Melanoma. Rev Chim 2019. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.19.9.7552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Magnetoliposomes were placed into the biomedical spotlight due to their unique structure, preserving also magnetic features valuable for biomedical applications. The present study provides a preliminary evidence of the cytotoxicity induced by betulinic acid-loaded magnetoliposomes (BA-Fe3O4@Lip) on two melanoma cell lines - A375 and B164A5 cells and one healthy cell line - mice epidermis JB6 Cl 41-5a cells, augmented by references to potential biomedical applications. BA-Fe3O4@Lip showed significant cytotoxicity on the melanoma cell lines, compared with the blank liposomal structures. In addition, the healthy cell line displayed good viability rate after exposure to BA-Fe3O4@Lip.
Collapse
|
22
|
Târcoveanu E, Dimofte G, Niculescu D, Vasilescu A, Moldovanu R, Ferariu D, Marcovici I. Ovarian fibroma in the era of laparoscopic surgery: a general surgeon's experience. Acta Chir Belg 2007; 107:664-9. [PMID: 18274181 DOI: 10.1080/00015458.2007.11680143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian fibroma is a rare benign tumor originating from the connective tissue of the ovarian cortex. On occasion, the general surgeon may encounter ovarian fibroma while operating an acute abdomen. We present a series of 15 ovarian fibromas encountered in 13 patients over 11 years experience in our general surgical ward. Only four cases required emergency operations due to either tumors or adnexal torsion. High-resolution ultrasound scan with color Doppler suggested an ovarian fibroma in only ten cases, while CT and MRI were suggestive for the diagnosis in three other cases. Surgical treatment consisted of five ovarectomies, three adnexal resections and five total hysterectomies with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Seven patients underwent laparoscopic surgery, four of them for an ovarian resection and in three for an adnexectomy. Laparoscopic approach has significant advantages by limiting parietal aggression with better cosmetic results, short hospital admission, lower costs, few postoperative adhesions and rapid recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E. Târcoveanu
- First Surgical Clinic, “St. Spiridon” University Hospital, University of Medicine “Gr. T. Popa” Iasi, Romania
| | - G. Dimofte
- First Surgical Clinic, “St. Spiridon” University Hospital, University of Medicine “Gr. T. Popa” Iasi, Romania
| | - D. Niculescu
- First Surgical Clinic, “St. Spiridon” University Hospital, University of Medicine “Gr. T. Popa” Iasi, Romania
| | - A. Vasilescu
- First Surgical Clinic, “St. Spiridon” University Hospital, University of Medicine “Gr. T. Popa” Iasi, Romania
| | - R. Moldovanu
- First Surgical Clinic, “St. Spiridon” University Hospital, University of Medicine “Gr. T. Popa” Iasi, Romania
| | - D. Ferariu
- First Surgical Clinic, “St. Spiridon” University Hospital, University of Medicine “Gr. T. Popa” Iasi, Romania
| | - I. Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bristol Hospital and University of Connecticut and Yale University, CT USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Endometrial ablation has become a popular method of managing menorrhagia. Pregnancy after endometrial ablation has a high rate of complications. We present the case of a parous woman with a history of endometrial ablation with preterm premature rupture of membranes. Despite the absence of established sonographic markers for abnormal placentation, placenta accreta was noted at the time of cesarean delivery. In women with history of endometrial ablation, the endometrium is not normal and may allow for more aggressive placental invasion or adherence. Consequently, the sonographic indices described for evaluating placenta accreta may not be present. We believe that placentation in women with prior endometrial ablations should be considered extremely high risk for placenta accreta or increta and managed accordingly when preparing for delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B D Hamar
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Marcovici I, Shadigian E. Operative laparoscopy and vulvar hematoma: an unusual association. JSLS 2001; 5:87-8. [PMID: 11304003 PMCID: PMC3015417] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Few cases of intraoperative or postoperative complications associated with laparoscopic adnexal surgery have been reported in the literature. We describe a case of laparoscopic abdominal vascular injury and persistent bleeding in the matrix of the ovary following laparoscopic cystectomy. During the first postsurgical day, the patient was syncopal. The physical examination showed a vulvar hematoma and minimal bleeding from a laparoscopic incision in the abdominal wall. Vulvar hematoma and an unstable patient may signal serious vascular bleeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-0276, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Marcovici I. Significant abdominal wall hematoma from an umbilical port insertion. JSLS 2001; 5:293-5. [PMID: 11548838 PMCID: PMC3015455] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Laparoscopists consider the umbilical and ventral midline area to be "vascular safe." On occasion, however, the insertion of the first trocar at the umbilical port may result in severe abdominal wall hematoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-0276, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
A nonpuerperal patient with Crohn's disease and pelvic pain was incidently diagnosed with ovarian vein thrombosis. The patient's laboratory data were negative for an inherited hypercoagulopathy state. Ovarian vein thrombosis is a possible cause of pelvic pain in patients with Crohn's disease. Modern imaging technology has made it easier to diagnose the once-elusive ovarian vein thrombosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0276, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Marcovici I, Scoccia B. Postpartum hemorrhage and intrauterine balloon tamponade. A report of three cases. J Reprod Med 1999; 44:122-6. [PMID: 10853443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum hemorrhage can become rapidly catastrophic. If medical management fails, then, according to recent reports, the use of an intrauterine inflated Foley catheter balloon for tamponade gives excellent results and can help avoid invasive procedures. CASE We present one case of profuse hemorrhage following evacuation of the fetus after intrauterine fetal death at 17 weeks' gestation controlled with intrauterine balloon tamponade and two cases of severe postpartum hemorrhage (one immediate and one late) following normal vaginal deliveries, both controlled with Foley catheters. In either case the patient required no blood transfusions, and major surgery was avoided. CONCLUSION Intrauterine balloon tamponade is highly effective. The catheter is readily available, is not expensive, does not require special training for insertion and, extremely important, can avoid major surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Millcreek Community Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Spontaneous bilateral ectopic pregnancy is extremely rare. An unsuspected case of spontaneous bilateral ectopic pregnancy with failure of single-dose methotrexate is presented. We question whether the recommended dose of methotrexate for unilateral ectopic pregnancy is adequate for bilateral tubal pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Millcreek Community Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania 16509, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Marcovici I, Ferretti JM. Septic shock in pregnancy: a case report. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1997; 177:1556-7. [PMID: 9423773 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9378(97)70113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We present the clinical course of a pregnant woman in septic shock. While we were managing this case, an elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was found, expressing left ventricular dysfunction. Therefore we question the widely accepted and recommended practice of loading the pregnant women in septic shock with 1 to 2 L of crystalloids before the institution of central monitoring. It is our belief that an aggressive and earlier central monitoring of the hemodynamic status can result in better treatment decisions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Millcreek Community Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania 16509, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Rosenzweig BA, Bolina PS, Birch L, Moran C, Marcovici I, Prins GS. Location and concentration of estrogen, progesterone, and androgen receptors in the bladder and urethra of the rabbit. Neurourol Urodyn 1995; 14:87-96. [PMID: 7742854 DOI: 10.1002/nau.1930140114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine location and concentration of estrogen, androgen, and progesterone receptors in the bladder and urethra of the rabbit. Two urethral and two bladder specimens were obtained from four 12-week-old female New Zealand white rabbits. Rat monoclonal antibody (AN1-15) to human androgen receptor and (H222) to human estrogen receptor and mouse monoclonal antibody (PR6) to chicken progesterone receptor were used. Immunocytochemical staining was performed and specimens were evaluated for presence and location of steroid receptors. Androgen receptors were found in the highest concentrations in urethral and bladder epithelium. Low to low/moderate concentration were found in smooth muscle. Estrogen receptors were found in moderate to moderate/high concentrations in urethral epithelium and bladder and urethral smooth muscle. Progesterone receptors were not found in appreciable concentrations from any location, though the animals were not pretreated with estrogen. The rabbit model suggests a mechanism by which estrogen therapy can be effective in treating postmenopausal lower urinary tract symptoms. Progesterone receptors were not found in appreciable concentrations, suggesting progesterone therapy may not diminish the effectiveness of estrogen therapy by acting on urethral progesterone receptors. The effect of androgens on the lower urinary tract needs further investigation to determine if androgen therapy can alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B A Rosenzweig
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois, College of Medicine, Chicago, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Marcovici I, Rosenzweig BA, Brill AI, Khan M, Scommegna A. Cervical pregnancy: case reports and a current literature review. Obstet Gynecol Surv 1994; 49:49-55. [PMID: 8134052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The increasing number of reports of successful conservative treatment of cervical pregnancy, such as using the folinic acid antagonist methotrexate, constitutes a breakthrough in the management of this unusual but potentially life-threatening complication of pregnancy. We are reporting two cases of cervical pregnancy, both diagnosed in the first trimester of pregnancy. The first one was successfully treated by transvaginal ultrasound-guided administration of 2 mEq KCI intraamniotically in order to stop the fetal heart activity, followed by administration of 84 mg of methotrexate intraaminiotically (1 mg/kg); whereas in the second case, we encountered a technical failure of the above method. Both patients expressed desire to maintain their reproductive capability. These two cases gave us the opportunity to review the recent literature on cervical pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Illinois, Chicago 60612
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Marcovici I, Rosenzweig BA, Brill AI, Scommegna A. Colchicine and post-inflammatory adhesions in a rabbit model: a dose-response study. Obstet Gynecol 1993; 82:216-8. [PMID: 8336867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the dose-response relationship of colchicine in reducing inflammatory adhesive disease secondary to Neisseria gonorrhoeae in the rabbit. METHODS Following intrauterine inoculation of a suspension of N gonorrhoeae, the rabbits were divided into five groups of 11 rabbits each. The control group received no medications. The remaining four groups received 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg, respectively, of colchicine intramuscularly daily for 14 days. The day after the last injection of colchicine, the peritoneal cavity was explored and assessed for the presence, number, and grade of adhesions. RESULTS With increasing doses of colchicine, the incidence of adhesions decreased. A linear model (log [dose + 0.5]) showed, however, that as the dose of colchicine increased, the response tended to plateau (P < .05). CONCLUSION In this model, colchicine was effective in preventing inflammatory adhesions in the rabbit. Increasing doses produced a greater effect in reducing adhesion formation. However, there was a plateau of the response at the 1-mg dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois, Chicago
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Marcovici I, Brill AI, Scommegna A. Effects of colchicine on pelvic adhesions associated with the intrauterine inoculation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in rabbits. Obstet Gynecol 1993; 81:118-21. [PMID: 8416445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether colchicine, an anti-inflammatory drug, is effective in reducing adhesion formation in a rabbit model in which pelvic inflammation was produced by injection of a suspension of Neisseria gonorrhoeae into the uterine horn. METHODS Following inoculation, the rabbits were divided into four groups of 11 animals each. The control group received 1 mL saline intramuscularly (IM) for 14 days. Another group received one 100-mg dose of ceftriaxone IM 2-4 hours after inoculation. The third group received one 100-mg dose of ceftriaxone IM 2-4 hours after inoculation and 1 mg colchicine IM daily for 14 days. The fourth group received 1 mg colchicine IM daily for 14 days. The day after the last injection of colchicine, the rabbits were sacrificed and the abdominal cavities were explored to determine the number and grade of adhesions. RESULTS The incidence of adhesions in the control group was similar to that in the antibiotic-treated group, suggesting that antibiotics do not prevent adhesions in this model. Similarly, the incidence of adhesions in the colchicine and antibiotic group was not different from that in the group receiving colchicine alone. However, the colchicine-treated groups had significantly fewer adhesions than the groups not treated with colchicine (P < .0005). CONCLUSIONS In this model, antibiotics alone did not prevent the formation of adhesions. Colchicine, alone or in combination with antibiotics, was effective in preventing bacteria-induced pelvic adhesions. Therefore, colchicine may offer a novel approach to the prevention of adhesions associated with pelvic inflammatory disease in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Marcovici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois, Chicago
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Scoccia B, Marcovici I, Brandt T. Uterine abscess after ultrasound-guided ovum retrieval in an in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer program: case report and review of the literature. J Assist Reprod Genet 1992; 9:285-9. [PMID: 1525464 DOI: 10.1007/bf01203831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- B Scoccia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Humana Hospital, Michael Reese University of Illinois, College of Medicine, Chicago 60616
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
This prospective study compares the histology and fertility effects of the microsuture polydioxanone to nylon and polyglactin-910. Twelve rats underwent uterine horn microroeanatomoses with nylon (6 right horns), polyglactin-910 (6 right horns), and polydioxanone (12 left horns). After mating, there were no significant differences in gestational implantations or adhesions per uterine horn. Postoperative histologic evaluation of nylon showed persistent histiocytic reaction and fibrosis, occasional giant cells, and suture persistence at 100 days. Polyglactin-910 had initial histiocytic responses, no giant cells or fibrosis, and was resorbed by 60 days. Polydioxanone had initial histiocytic reaction and giant cells, no fibrosis, and was resorbed by 100 days. Our findings, and a review of the literature, confirmed mixed histologic reactions but no difference in fertility with these three microsutures. Because of its low reactivity and great strength, polydioxanone may be a good alternative suture material in reproductive microsurgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Scoccia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois, College of Medicine, Chicago 60616
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Basş EB, Wegmann L, Schütz E, Steinemann S, Ryter A, Schwab W, Kellenberger E, Vogel A, Müller HR, Mühlethaler K, Sitte H, Moor H, Sitte P, Feissly R, Gautier A, Marcovici I, Spoendlin H, Rüttner JR, Vogel A, Imhof K. Bericht über die 4. Tagung für Elektronen-mikroskopie des Schweizer Komitees für Optik. Cell Mol Life Sci 1957. [DOI: 10.1007/bf02161132] [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: 11/28/2022]
|