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Alves-Silva JM, Moreira P, Cavaleiro C, Pereira C, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L. Effect of Ferulago lutea (Poir.) Grande Essential Oil on Molecular Hallmarks of Skin Aging. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:3741. [PMID: 37960097 PMCID: PMC10648677 DOI: 10.3390/plants12213741] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
With the increase in global life expectancy, maintaining health into old age becomes a challenge, and research has thus concentrated on various strategies which aimed to mitigate the effects of skin aging. Aromatic plants stand out as promising sources of anti-aging compounds due to their secondary metabolites, particularly essential oils (EOs). The aim of this study was to ascribe to Ferulago lutea EO several biological activities that could be useful in the context of skin aging. The EO was obtained using hydrodistillation and characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The anti-inflammatory potential was assessed using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages. The effect on cell migration was disclosed using scratch wound assay. Lipogenesis was induced using T0901317, hyperpigmentation with 3-isobutyl-1-methylxantine (IBMX) and senescence with etoposide. Our results show that the EO was characterized mainly by α-pinene and limonene. The EO was able to decrease nitric oxide (NO) release as well as iNOS and pro-IL-1β protein levels. The EO promoted wound healing while decreasing lipogenesis and having depigmenting effects. The EO also reduced senescence-associated β-galactosidase, p21/p53 protein levels and the nuclear accumulation of γH2AX. Overall, our study highlights the properties of F. lutea EO that make it a compelling candidate for dermocosmetics applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge M. Alves-Silva
- Univ Coimbra, Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Patrícia Moreira
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (C.P.)
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Pereira
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (C.P.)
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
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Faria CP, Ferreira B, Lourenço Á, Guerra I, Melo T, Domingues P, Domingues MDRM, Cruz MT, Sousa MDC. Lipidome of extracellular vesicles from Giardia lamblia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291292. [PMID: 37683041 PMCID: PMC10490865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) (exossomes, microvesicles and apoptotic bodies) have been well acknowledged as mediators of intercellular communications in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Lipids are essential molecular components of EVs but at the moment the knowledge about the lipid composition and the function of lipids in EVs is limited and as for now none lipidomic studies in Giardia EVs was described. Therefore, the focus of the current study was to conduct, for the first time, the characterization of the polar lipidome, namely phospholipid and sphingolipid profiles of G. lamblia trophozoites, microvesicles (MVs) and exosomes, using C18-Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (C18-LC-MS) and Tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS). A total of 162 lipid species were identified and semi-quantified, in the trophozoites, or in the MVs and exosomes belonging to 8 lipid classes, including the phospholipid classes phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylinositol (PI), cardiolipins (CL), the sphingolipid classes sphingomyelin (SM) and ceramides (Cer), and cholesterol (ST), and 3 lipid subclasses that include lyso PC (LPC), lyso PE (LPE) and lyso PG (LPG), but showing different abundances. This work also identified, for the first time, in G. lamblia trophozoites, the lipid classes CL, Cer and ST and subclasses of LPC, LPE and LPG. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed clear discrimination of lipid profiles between trophozoite, exosomes and MVs. The principal component analysis (PCA) plot of the lipidomics dataset showed clear discrimination between the three groups. Future studies focused on the composition and functional properties of Giardia EVs may prove crucial to understand the role of lipids in host-parasite communication, and to identify new targets that could be exploited to develop novel classes of drugs to treat giardiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Perez Faria
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Ágata Lourenço
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Guerra
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, CESAM Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Tânia Melo
- Department of Chemistry, CESAM Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro Domingues
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria do Rosário Marques Domingues
- Department of Chemistry, CESAM Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria do Céu Sousa
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Ferreira I, Brites G, Silva A, Caramelo F, Oliveiros B, Neves BM, Cruz MT. Development of an in chemico high-throughput screening method for the identification of skin sensitization potential. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:2441-2451. [PMID: 37466788 PMCID: PMC10404171 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03550-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
It is well established that chemical-peptide conjugation represents the molecular initiating event (MIE) in skin sensitization. This MIE has been successfully exploited in the development of in chemico peptide reactivity assays, with the Direct Peptide Reactivity Assay (DPRA) being validated as a screening tool for skin sensitization hazard as well as an OECD test guideline. This test relies on the use of a high-performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet detection method to quantify chemical-peptide conjugation through measurement of the depletion of two synthetic peptides containing lysine or cysteine residues, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming. To improve assay throughput, sensitivity, and accuracy, we have developed a spectrophotometric assay for skin sensitization potential based on MIE measurement-the ProtReact assay. ProtReact is also a cheaper, faster, simpler, and more accessible alternative for the DPRA, giving comparable results. A set of 106 chemicals was tested with ProtReact and the peptide depletion values compared with those reported for the DPRA. The predictive capacity of both assays was evaluated with human reference data. ProtReact and DPRA assays show similar predictive capacities for hazard identification (75% and 74%, respectively), although ProtReact showed a higher specificity (86% versus 74%, respectively) and lower sensitivity (69% versus 73%). Overall, the results show that ProtReact assay described here represents an efficient, economic, and accurate assay for the prediction of skin sensitization potential of chemical haptens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Ferreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Gonçalo Brites
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Toxfinder LDA, IPN - Instituto Pedro Nunes, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Caramelo
- Laboratory of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Oliveiros
- Laboratory of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Toxfinder LDA, IPN - Instituto Pedro Nunes, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Toxfinder LDA, IPN - Instituto Pedro Nunes, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Alves-Silva JM, Pedreiro S, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L, Figueirinha A. Exploring the Traditional Uses of Thymbra capitata Infusion in Algarve (Portugal): Anti-Inflammatory, Wound Healing, and Anti-Aging. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1202. [PMID: 37765010 PMCID: PMC10538188 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091202] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the resolution of infection or tissue damage. In addition, inflammation is considered a hallmark of aging, which in turn compromises wound healing. Thymbra capitata is an aromatic plant, whose infusion is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing agent. In this study, a T. capitata infusion was prepared and characterized by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn and its safety profile determined by the resazurin metabolic assay. The anti-inflammatory potential was revealed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages by assessing nitric oxide (NO) release and levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the interleukin-1β pro-form (pro-IL-1β). Wound-healing capacity was determined using the scratch assay. The activity of senescence-associated β-galactosidase was used to unveil the anti-senescent potential, along with the nuclear accumulation of yH2AX and p21 levels. The antiradical potential was assessed by DPPH and ABTS scavenging assays. The infusion contains predominantly rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acids. The extract decreased NO, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β levels. Interestingly, the extract promoted wound healing and decreased β-galactosidase activity, as well as yH2AX and p21 levels. The present work highlights strong antiradical, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing capacities, corroborating the traditional uses ascribed to this plant. We have described, for the first time for this extract, anti-senescent properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Miguel Alves-Silva
- Univ Coimbra, Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.T.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Sónia Pedreiro
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.T.C.); (A.F.)
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.T.C.); (A.F.)
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.T.C.); (A.F.)
- Univ Coimbra, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Artur Figueirinha
- Univ Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.T.C.); (A.F.)
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
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Alves-Silva JM, Pedreiro S, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Figueirinha A, Salgueiro L. Effect of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav. on Inflammation, Senescence and Cell Migration. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081930. [PMID: 37111149 PMCID: PMC10146686 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Aromatic plants are reported to display pharmacological properties, including anti-aging. This work aims to disclose the anti-aging effect of the essential oil (EO) of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav., an aromatic and medicinal plant widely used as a spice, as well as of the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW), a discarded by-product of EO hydrodistillation. The phytochemical characterization of EO and HRW was assessed by GC-MS and HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn, respectively. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays were used to disclose the antioxidant properties. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages by assessing NO production, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β protein levels. Cell migration was evaluated using the scratch wound assay, and the etoposide-induced senescence was used to assess the modulation of senescence. The EO is mainly characterized by carvacrol, while the HRW is predominantly characterized by rosmarinic acid. The HRW exerts a stronger antioxidant effect in the DPPH and FRAP assays, whereas the EO was the most active sample in the ABTS assay. Both extracts reduce NO, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β. The EO has no effect on cell migration and presents anti-senescence effects. In opposition, HRW reduces cell migration and induces cellular senescence. Overall, our study highlights interesting pharmacological properties for both extracts, EO being of interest as an anti-aging ingredient and HRW relevant in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge M Alves-Silva
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sónia Pedreiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Artur Figueirinha
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
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Alves-Silva JM, Maccioni D, Cocco E, Gonçalves MJ, Porcedda S, Piras A, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L, Maxia A. Advances in the Phytochemical Characterisation and Bioactivities of Salvia aurea L. Essential Oil. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:1247. [PMID: 36986933 PMCID: PMC10056036 DOI: 10.3390/plants12061247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The Salvia L. genus (Lamiaceae) is largely used in the pharmaceutical and food industry. Several species of biological relevance are extensively employed in traditional medicine, including Salvia aurea L. (syn. S. africana-lutea L.), which is used as a traditional skin disinfectant and in wounds as a healing remedy; nevertheless, these properties have not been validated yet. The aim of the present study is to characterise S. aurea essential oil (EO), unveiling its chemical composition and validating its biological properties. The EO was obtained by hydrodistillation and subsequently analysed by GC-FID and GC-MS. Different biological activities were assessed: the antifungal effect on dermatophytes and yeasts and the anti-inflammatory potential by evaluating nitric oxide (NO) production and COX-2 and iNOS protein levels. Wound-healing properties were assessed using the scratch-healing test, and the anti-aging capacity was estimated through the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase activity. S. aurea EO is mainly characterised by 1,8-cineole (16.7%), β-pinene (11.9%), cis-thujone (10.5%), camphor (9.5%), and (E)-caryophyllene (9.3%). The results showed an effective inhibition of the growth of dermatophytes. Furthermore, it significantly reduced protein levels of iNOS/COX-2 and simultaneously NO release. Additionally, the EO exhibited anti-senescence potential and enhanced wound healing. Overall, this study highlights the remarkable pharmacological properties of Salvia aurea EO, which should be further explored in order to develop innovative, sustainable, and environmentally friendly skin products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Miguel Alves-Silva
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Delia Maccioni
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Viale Sant’Ignazio 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Emma Cocco
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Viale Sant’Ignazio 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Silvia Porcedda
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piras
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andrea Maxia
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Viale Sant’Ignazio 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
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Alves-Silva JM, Gonçalves MJ, Silva A, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L. Chemical Profile, Anti-Microbial and Anti-Inflammaging Activities of Santolina rosmarinifolia L. Essential Oil from Portugal. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010179. [PMID: 36671380 PMCID: PMC9854695 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections and the accompanying inflammatory responses are associated with great morbidity and mortality due to the frequent relapses triggered by an increased resistance to antifungal agents. Furthermore, this inflammatory state can be exacerbated during inflammaging and cellular senescence. Essential oils (EO) are receiving increasing interest in the field of drug discovery due to their lipophilic nature and complex composition, making them suitable candidates in the development of new antifungal drugs and modulators of numerous molecular targets. This work chemically characterized the EO from Santolina rosmarinifolia L., collected in Setúbal (Portugal), and assessed its antifungal potential by determining its minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum lethal (MLC) concentration in accordance with the Clinical Laboratory Standard Guidelines (CLSI) guidelines, as well as its effect on several Candida albicans virulence factors. The anti-inflammatory effect was unveiled using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages by assessing several pro-inflammatory mediators. The wound healing and anti-senescence potential of the EO was also disclosed. The EO was mainly characterized by β-pinene (29.6%), borneol (16.9%), myrcene (15.4%) and limonene (5.7%). It showed a strong antifungal effect against yeasts and filamentous fungi (MIC = 0.07-0.29 mg/mL). Furthermore, it inhibited dimorphic transition (MIC/16), decreased biofilm formation with a preeminent effect after 24 h (MIC/2) and disrupted preformed biofilms in C. albicans. Additionally, the EO decreased nitric oxide (NO) release (IC50 = 0.52 mg/mL) and pro-IL-1β and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages, promoted wound healing (91% vs. 81% closed wound) and reduced cellular senescence (53% vs. 73% β-galactosidase-positive cells). Overall, this study highlights the relevant pharmacological properties of S. rosmarinifolia, opening new avenues for its industrial exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge M. Alves-Silva
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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8
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Alves-Silva JM, Cocco E, Piras A, Gonçalves MJ, Silva A, Falconieri D, Porcedda S, Cruz MT, Maxia A, Salgueiro L. Unveiling the Chemical Composition and Biological Properties of Salvia cacaliifolia Benth. Essential Oil. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:plants12020359. [PMID: 36679072 PMCID: PMC9867359 DOI: 10.3390/plants12020359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Salvia is widely recognized for its therapeutic potential. However, the biological relevance of some species remains unknown, namely Salvia cacaliifolia Benth. Therefore, the aim of this study is to unveil the chemical composition and relevant properties to its essential oil (EO). The EO was characterized by GC and GC-MS and its antifungal effect was evaluated according to the CLSI guidelines on dermatophytes and yeasts. The anti-inflammatory potential was assessed on lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages, by assessing the production of nitric oxide (NO) and the effect on the protein levels of two key pro-inflammatory enzymes, iNOS and COX-2 by western blot analysis. Wound healing capacity was determined using the scratch wound healing assay, and the anti-aging potential was assessed by evaluating the senescence marker β-galactosidase. The EO was mainly characterized by γ-curcumene, β-bisabolene, bicyclogermacrene and curzerenone. It is effective in inhibiting the growth of dermatophytes and C. neoformans. The EO significantly decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein levels and concomitantly reduced NO release. Additionally, it demonstrated anti-senescence potential and promoted wound healing. Overall, this study highlights relevant pharmacological properties of the EO of Salvia cacaliifolia, which should be further explored envisaging the development of sustainable, innovative, and environmentally friendly skin products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge M. Alves-Silva
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Emma Cocco
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Viale Sant’Ignazio, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piras
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Danilo Falconieri
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Viale Sant’Ignazio, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvia Porcedda
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andrea Maxia
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Viale Sant’Ignazio, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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9
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Conti BJ, Santiago KB, Cardoso EO, Conte FL, Golim MA, Cruz MT, Sforcin JM. Effect of propolis on Th2 and Th17 cells: interplay with EtxB- and LPS-treated dendritic cells. Braz J Med Biol Res 2023; 56:e12659. [PMID: 37075347 PMCID: PMC10125804 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2023e12659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells that drive the differentiation of T CD4+ cells into different profiles according to the nature of the antigen or immunomodulator. Propolis is a resinous product made by bees that has numerous pharmacological properties, including an immunomodulatory action. To assess whether propolis can modulate the activation of CD4+ T cells by stimulating DCs with heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (EtxB) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms affected by propolis in the differential activation of T lymphocytes. Cell viability, lymphocyte proliferation, gene expression (GATA-3 and RORc), and cytokine production (interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-17A) were analyzed. Propolis, EtxB, and LPS induced a higher lymphoproliferation compared with the control. Propolis induced GATA-3 expression and, in combination with EtxB, maintained the baseline levels. Propolis alone or in combination with LPS inhibited RORc expression. EtxB alone and in combination with propolis increased IL-4 production. Propolis in combination with LPS prevented LPS-induced IL-17A production. These results opened perspectives for the study of biological events that may be favored by propolis by promoting Th2 activation or helping in the treatment of inflammatory conditions mediated by Th17 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Conti
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - K B Santiago
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - E O Cardoso
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - F L Conte
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - M A Golim
- Hemocentro de Botucatu, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Center for Neurosciences and Cellular Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J M Sforcin
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
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10
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Vaz CV, Oliveira AS, Silva A, Cortes L, Correia S, Ferreira R, Breitenfeld L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Pereira CF, Cruz MT, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A. Protective role of Portuguese natural mineral waters on skin aging: in vitro evaluation of anti-senescence and anti-oxidant properties. Int J Biometeorol 2022; 66:2117-2131. [PMID: 35994120 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-022-02345-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Natural mineral waters (NMWs) emerge from the earth as springs and their beneficial therapeutic effect has been empirically recognized in different countries. Portugal has diverse NMW resources that are sought for the relief of different afflictions including dermatological complications. However, there is a lack of scientific validation supporting this empiric knowledge. In this study, we aimed to screen the in vitro bioactivity of Portuguese NMWs with different chemical profiles, namely sulfurous/bicarbonate/sodic (SBS), bicarbonate/magnesium, sulfated/calcic, sulfurous/chlorinated/sodic, sulfurous/bicarbonate/fluoridated/sodic, and chlorinated/sodic, focusing on aging-related skin alterations. Mouse skin fibroblasts and macrophages were exposed to culture medium prepared in different NMWs. Cellular viability was evaluated by MTT assay and etoposide-induced senescence was analyzed through the beta-galactosidase staining kit. Wound healing was investigated by the scratch assay, and phototoxicity/photoprotection after UVA irradiation was evaluated using a neutral red solution. ROS production was quantified using the 2'7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate dye, and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was analyzed by a commercial kit after lipopolysaccharide exposure. NMWs within the SBS profile demonstrated anti-senescence activity in skin fibroblasts, along with a variable effect on cellular viability. Among the tested NMWs, two decreased cellular senescence and preserved cell viability and were therefore selected for subsequent studies, together with a SBS NMW with therapeutic indications for dermatologic diseases. Overall, the selected NMW promoted wound healing in skin fibroblasts and activated SOD in macrophages, thus suggesting an anti-oxidant effect. None of the NMWs prevented phototoxicity after UV irradiation. Our results shed a light on the anti-aging potential of Portuguese NMW, supporting their putative application in cosmetic or medical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Vaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - A S Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - L Cortes
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Correia
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - L Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - J Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C F Pereira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal.
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11
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Correia BP, Sousa MP, Sousa CEA, Mateus D, Sebastião AI, Cruz MT, Matos AM, Pereira AC, Moreira FTC. Development of colorimetric cellulose-based test-strip for the rapid detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV2 virus. Cellulose (Lond) 2022; 29:9311-9322. [PMID: 36158137 PMCID: PMC9483301 DOI: 10.1007/s10570-022-04808-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Given the pandemic situation, there is an urgent need for an accurate test to monitor antibodies anti-SARS-CoV-2, providing crucial epidemiological and clinical information to monitor the evolution of coronavirus disease in 2019 (COVID-19) and to stratify the immunized and asymptomatic population. Therefore, this paper describes a new cellulose-based test strip for rapid and cost-effective quantitative detection of antibodies to SARS-CoV2 virus by colorimetric transduction. For this purpose, Whatman paper was chemically modified with sodium metaperiodate to introduce aldehyde groups on its surface. Subsequently, the spike protein of the virus is covalently bound by forming an imine group. The chemical control of cellulose paper modification was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and contact angle analysis. Colorimetric detection of the antibodies was performed by a conventional staining method using Ponceau S solution as the dye. Color analysis was performed after image acquisition with a smartphone using Image J software. The color intensity varied linearly with the logarithm of the anti-S concentration (from 10 ng/mL to 1 μg/mL) in 500-fold diluted serum samples when plotted against the green coordinate extracted from digital images. The test strip was selective in the presence of nucleocapsid antibodies, urea, glucose, and bovine serum albumin with less than 15% interference, and detection of antibodies in human serum was successfully performed. Overall, this is a simple and affordable design that can be readily used for mass population screening and does not require sophisticated equipment or qualified personnel. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10570-022-04808-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara P. Correia
- BioMark/ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic School of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Mariana P. Sousa
- BioMark/ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic School of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Cristina E. A. Sousa
- BioMark/ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic School of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Daniela Mateus
- Faculty of Farmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Isabel Sebastião
- Faculty of Farmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Farmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Miguel Matos
- Faculty of Farmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical Engineering Processes and Forest Products Research Center, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Cláudia Pereira
- BioMark/ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic School of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Felismina T. C. Moreira
- BioMark/ISEP, School of Engineering, Polytechnic School of Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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12
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Moreira P, Matos P, Figueirinha A, Salgueiro L, Batista MT, Branco PC, Cruz MT, Pereira CF. Forest Biomass as a Promising Source of Bioactive Essential Oil and Phenolic Compounds for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158812. [PMID: 35955963 PMCID: PMC9369093 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder affecting elderly people worldwide. Currently, there are no effective treatments for AD able to prevent disease progression, highlighting the urgency of finding new therapeutic strategies to stop or delay this pathology. Several plants exhibit potential as source of safe and multi-target new therapeutic molecules for AD treatment. Meanwhile, Eucalyptus globulus extracts revealed important pharmacological activities, namely antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to the reported neuroprotective effects. This review summarizes the chemical composition of essential oil (EO) and phenolic extracts obtained from Eucalyptus globulus leaves, disclosing major compounds and their effects on AD-relevant pathological features, including deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) in senile plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau in neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), abnormalities in GABAergic, cholinergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission, inflammation, and oxidative stress. In general, 1,8-cineole is the major compound identified in EO, and ellagic acid, quercetin, and rutin were described as main compounds in phenolic extracts from Eucalyptus globulus leaves. EO and phenolic extracts, and especially their major compounds, were found to prevent several pathological cellular processes and to improve cognitive function in AD animal models. Therefore, Eucalyptus globulus leaves are a relevant source of biological active and safe molecules that could be used as raw material for nutraceuticals and plant-based medicinal products useful for AD prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Moreira
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Matos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Artur Figueirinha
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Batista
- CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Fragão Pereira
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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13
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Pereira AC, De Pascale J, Resende R, Cardoso S, Ferreira I, Neves BM, Carrascal MA, Zuzarte M, Madeira N, Morais S, Macedo A, do Carmo A, Moreira PI, Cruz MT, Pereira CF. ER-mitochondria communication is involved in NLRP3 inflammasome activation under stress conditions in the innate immune system. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:213. [PMID: 35344105 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04211-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [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: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, which are key events in the initiation and/or progression of several diseases, are correlated with alterations at ER-mitochondria contact sites, the so-called "Mitochondria-Associated Membranes" (MAMs). These intracellular structures are also implicated in NLRP3 inflammasome activation which is an important driver of sterile inflammation, however, the underlying molecular basis remains unclear. This work aimed to investigate the role of ER-mitochondria communication during ER stress-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation in both peripheral and central innate immune systems, by using THP-1 human monocytes and BV2 microglia cells, respectively, as in vitro models. Markers of ER stress, mitochondrial dynamics and mass, as well as NLRP3 inflammasome activation were evaluated by Western Blot, IL-1β secretion was measured by ELISA, and ER-mitochondria contacts were quantified by transmission electron microscopy. Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and polarization were analyzed with fluorescent probes, and measurement of aconitase and SOD2 activities monitored mitochondrial ROS accumulation. ER stress was demonstrated to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome in both peripheral and central immune cells. Studies in monocytes indicate that ER stress-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation occurs by a Ca2+-dependent and ROS-independent mechanism, which is coupled with upregulation of MAMs-resident chaperones, closer ER-mitochondria contacts, as well as mitochondrial depolarization and impaired dynamics. Moreover, enhanced ER stress-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the immune system was found associated with pathological conditions since it was observed in monocytes derived from bipolar disorder (BD) patients, supporting a pro-inflammatory status in BD. In conclusion, by demonstrating that ER-mitochondria communication plays a key role in the response of the innate immune cells to ER stress, this work contributes to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying NLRP3 inflammasome activation under stress conditions, and to disclose novel potential therapeutic targets for diseases associated with sterile inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Pereira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jessica De Pascale
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Resende
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Susana Cardoso
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Ferreira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- iBiMED-Department of Medical Sciences and Institute for Biomedicine, University Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mylène A Carrascal
- CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Tecnimede Group, Sintra, Portugal
| | - Mónica Zuzarte
- Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,iCBR-Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Madeira
- Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIBIT-Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Psychiatry, CHUC-UC-Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sofia Morais
- Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Psychiatry, CHUC-UC-Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Macedo
- Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Psychiatry, CHUC-UC-Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anália do Carmo
- CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Clinical Pathology, CHUC-UC-Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula I Moreira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia F Pereira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Faculty of Medicine, University Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,CACC-Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,, Coimbra, Portugal.
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14
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Zuzarte M, Sousa C, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L. The Anti-Inflammatory Response of Lavandula luisieri and Lavandula pedunculata Essential Oils. Plants (Basel) 2022; 11:plants11030370. [PMID: 35161351 PMCID: PMC8838270 DOI: 10.3390/plants11030370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Portuguese lavenders remain undervalued in global markets due to the lack of high-quality end-products and scarcity of scientific-based studies validating their bioactive potential. Moreover, chemical variability is frequent in these species, and can compromise both safety and efficacy. In the present study, the anti-inflammatory potential of L. luisieri and L. pedunculata, two highly prevalent species in Portugal, was assessed and correlated with their chemical variability. Representative samples with distinct chemical profiles were selected to assess the anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-stimulated macrophages. L. luisieri essential oil with low quantities of necrodane derivatives was the most potent at inhibiting NO production. Interestingly, the essential oil was more effective than its main compounds (1,8-cineole and fenchone), assessed alone or in combination. Our results also demonstrated a significant effect of the oil on the expression of the inflammatory proteins (iNOS and pro-IL-1β) and on the NF-κB pathway. Overall, this study highlights the impact of chemical variability on oils' efficacy by showing distinct effects among the chemotypes. We also identify L. luisieri essential oil, with low quantities of necrodane derivatives, as the most promising in the mitigation of the inflammatory response, thus corroborating its traditional uses and paving the way for the development of herbal medicinal products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Zuzarte
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.S.); (M.T.C.)
- Clinical Academic Centre of Coimbra (CACC), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-239-480-220
| | - Cátia Sousa
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.S.); (M.T.C.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.C.); (L.S.)
- Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.C.); (L.S.)
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre (CIEPQPF), Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.S.); (M.T.C.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.C.); (L.S.)
- Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.C.); (L.S.)
- Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre (CIEPQPF), Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
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15
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Zuzarte M, Francisco V, Neves B, Liberal J, Cavaleiro C, Canhoto J, Salgueiro L, Cruz MT. Lavandula viridis L´Hér. Essential Oil Inhibits the Inflammatory Response in Macrophages Through Blockade of NF-KB Signaling Cascade. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:695911. [PMID: 35145398 PMCID: PMC8821966 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.695911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Lavandulaviridis L´Hér. is an endemic Iberian species with a high essential oil yield and a pleasant lemon scent. Despite these interesting features, this species remains unrecognized and poorly explored by the food and pharmaceutical industries. Nevertheless, it has been valued in traditional medicine being used against flu, circulatory problems and to relieve headaches. Since these disorders trigger inflammatory responses, it is relevant to determine the anti-inflammatory potential of L. viridis L´Hér. essential oil in an attempt to validate its traditional use and concomitantly to increment its industrial exploitation. Therefore, in the present study the chemical composition of this volatile extract as well as the effect on ROS production, inflammatory response and proteasome activity on LPS-stimulated macrophages were disclosed. Also, its safety profile on keratinocytes, hepatocytes and alveolar epithelial cells was depicted, envisioning a future human administration. The essential oil was characterized by high quantities of 1,8-cineole, camphor and α-pinene. From a pharmacological point of view, the essential oil showed a potent antioxidant effect and inhibited nitric oxide production through down-modulation of nuclear factor kappa B-dependent Nos2 transcription and consequently iNOS protein expression as well as a decrease in proteasomal activity. The anti-inflammatory activity was also evidenced by a strong inhibition of LPS-induced Il1b and Il6 transcriptions and downregulation of COX-2 levels. Overall, bioactive safe concentrations of L. viridis L´Hér. essential oil were disclosed, thus corroborating the traditional usage of this species and paving the way for the development of plant-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Zuzarte
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Centre of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Monica Zuzarte,
| | - Vera Francisco
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Service and Institute of Health Research-INCLIVA, University Clinic Hospital of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Bruno Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Liberal
- Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, Quality of Life in the Rural World Research Unit (QRural), Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre (CIEPQPF), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge Canhoto
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Centre for Functional Ecology (CEF), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Products Research Centre (CIEPQPF), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- University of Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Coimbra, Portugal
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16
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Piras A, Maccioni A, Falconieri D, Porcedda S, Gonçalves MJ, Alves-Silva JM, Silva A, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L, Maxia A. Chemical composition and biological activity of essential oil of Teucrium scordium L. subsp. scordioides (Schreb.) Arcang. (Lamiaceae) from Sardinia Island (Italy). Nat Prod Res 2021; 36:5828-5835. [PMID: 34930083 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2021.2018432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to demonstrate the antifungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-migratory potential of the essential oil of Teucrium scordium subsp. scordioides (Schreb.) Arcang, a plant widely used in traditional medicine in Sardinia. The oil was rich in germacrene D (25.1%), δ-cadinene (12.9%) and alloaromadendrene (11.3%). The yeast Cryptococcus neoformans and the dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes var. interdigitale and Epidermophyton floccosum were the most susceptible fungi to the action of the oil. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages, the oil was able to decrease nitric oxide production by ca. 30% at 1.25 μL/mL, without affecting cell viability. In the scratch wound assay, it allowed for ca. 36% of wound closure after 18 h, thus showing anti-migratory properties. Overall, this study highlights the potential of this species to mitigate fungal infections associated with an inflammatory response. Furthermore, we also reported for the first time its anti-migratory capacity, thus suggesting anticancer properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Piras
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Alfredo Maccioni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Botany section, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Danilo Falconieri
- State Institute of Higher Education "Michele Giua", via Montecassino, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvia Porcedda
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Product Research Center, Coimbra, Portugalv
| | - Jorge M Alves-Silva
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- University of Coimbra, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ligia Salgueiro
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, Chemical Process Engineering and Forest Product Research Center, Coimbra, Portugalv
| | - Andrea Maxia
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Botany section, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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17
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Pinheiro T, Cardoso AR, Sousa CEA, Marques AC, Tavares APM, Matos AM, Cruz MT, Moreira FTC, Martins R, Fortunato E, Sales MGF. Paper-Based Biosensors for COVID-19: A Review of Innovative Tools for Controlling the Pandemic. ACS Omega 2021; 6:29268-29290. [PMID: 34778604 PMCID: PMC8577188 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The appearance and quick spread of the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus disease, COVID-19, brought major societal challenges. Importantly, suitable medical diagnosis procedures and smooth clinical management of the disease are an emergent need, which must be anchored on novel diagnostic methods and devices. Novel molecular diagnostic tools relying on nucleic acid amplification testing have emerged globally and are the current gold standard in COVID-19 diagnosis. However, the need for widespread testing methodologies for fast, effective testing in multiple epidemiological scenarios remains a crucial step in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Biosensors have previously shown the potential for cost-effective and accessible diagnostics, finding applications in settings where conventional, laboratorial techniques may not be readily employed. Paper- and cellulose-based biosensors can be particularly relevant in pandemic times, for the renewability, possibility of mass production with sustainable methodologies, and safe environmental disposal. In this review, paper-based devices and platforms targeting SARS-CoV-2 are showcased and discussed, as a means to achieve quick and low-cost PoC diagnosis, including detection methodologies for viral genomic material, viral antigen detection, and serological antibody testing. Devices targeting inflammatory markers relevant for COVID-19 are also discussed, as fast, reliable bedside diagnostic tools for patient treatment and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Pinheiro
- CENIMAT
i3N, Materials Science Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, Caparica 2829-516, Portugal
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A. Rita Cardoso
- CENIMAT
i3N, Materials Science Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, Caparica 2829-516, Portugal
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- BioMark@ISEP,
School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute
of Porto, R. Dr. António
Bernardino de Almeida, 431, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
- CEB,
Centre of Biological Engineering, University
of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
| | - Cristina E. A. Sousa
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- BioMark@ISEP,
School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute
of Porto, R. Dr. António
Bernardino de Almeida, 431, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
| | - Ana C. Marques
- CENIMAT
i3N, Materials Science Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, Caparica 2829-516, Portugal
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana P. M. Tavares
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- BioMark@ISEP,
School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute
of Porto, R. Dr. António
Bernardino de Almeida, 431, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
- CEB,
Centre of Biological Engineering, University
of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
| | - Ana Miguel Matos
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências
da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemical
Engineering Processes and Forest Products Research Center, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty
of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Polo I, 1st Floor, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Felismina T. C. Moreira
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- BioMark@ISEP,
School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute
of Porto, R. Dr. António
Bernardino de Almeida, 431, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Martins
- CENIMAT
i3N, Materials Science Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, Caparica 2829-516, Portugal
| | - Elvira Fortunato
- CENIMAT
i3N, Materials Science Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa and CEMOP/UNINOVA, Caparica 2829-516, Portugal
| | - M. Goreti F. Sales
- BioMark@UC,
Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University
of Coimbra R. Sílvio Lima, Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
- BioMark@ISEP,
School of Engineering, Polytechnic Institute
of Porto, R. Dr. António
Bernardino de Almeida, 431, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
- CEB,
Centre of Biological Engineering, University
of Minho, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
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18
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Mateus D, Sebastião AI, Carrascal MA, Carmo AD, Matos AM, Cruz MT. Crosstalk between estrogen, dendritic cells, and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Rev Med Virol 2021; 32:e2290. [PMID: 34534372 PMCID: PMC8646421 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) first appeared in Wuhan and has so far killed more than four million people worldwide. Men are more affected than women by Covid‐19, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind these differences are largely unknown. One plausible explanation is that differences in sex hormones could partially account for this distinct prevalence in both sexes. Accordingly, several papers have reported a protective role of 17β‐estradiol during Covid‐19, which might help explain why women appear less likely to die from Covid‐19 than men. 17β‐estradiol is the predominant and most biologically active endogenous estrogen, which signals through estrogen receptor α, estrogen receptor β, and G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor 1. These receptors are expressed in mature cells from the innate and the adaptive immune system, particularly on dendritic cells (DCs), suggesting that estrogens could modulate their effector functions. DCs are the most specialized and proficient antigen‐presenting cells, acting at the interface of innate and adaptive immunity with a powerful capacity to prime antigen‐specific naive CD8+ T cells. DCs are richly abundant in the lung where they respond to viral infection. A relative increase of mature DCs in broncho‐alveolar lavage fluids from Covid‐19 patients has already been reported. Here we will describe how SARS‐CoV‐2 acts on DCs, the role of estrogen on DC immunobiology, summarise the impact of sex hormones on the immune response against Covid‐19, and explore clinical trials regarding Covid‐19
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Mateus
- Faculty of Pharmacy-FFUC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Mylène A Carrascal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,UpCells, Tecnimed Group, Sintra, Portugal
| | - Anália do Carmo
- Clinical Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Miguel Matos
- Faculty of Pharmacy-FFUC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Chemical Engineering Processes and Forest Products Research Center, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy-FFUC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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19
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Rocha MI, Gonçalves MJ, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Pereira C, Moreira P, Salgueiro L, Figueirinha A. Chemical characterization and bioactive potential of Artemisia campestris L. subsp. maritima (DC) Arcang. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water. J Ethnopharmacol 2021; 276:114146. [PMID: 33932510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Artemisia campestris L. is widely used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. A. campestris subsp. maritima Arcang., a halophyte plant ("madorneira" or "erva-lombrigueira" in Portugal), is traditionally used for gastric disorders, rheumatism and hypertension. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study aims to characterize the essential oil (EO) and the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW), a by-product of the EO production, of Artemisia campestris subsp. maritima from Portugal and evaluate the antioxidant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities of both extracts at concentrations without toxicity. MATERIALS AND METHODS The phenolic profile of HRW was determined by HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSn and the EO was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC-FID and GC-MS). The antioxidant activity of both extracts were determined by several assays (ABTS, NO FRAP, β-carotene and DPPH). The antifungal activity (MIC and MLC) was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophytes and Aspergillus strains using broth macrodilution methods. The anti-inflammatory potential was determined measuring the nitric oxide (NO) production by stimulated mouse leukemic macrophages (RAW 264.7). Cell viability was evaluated for RAW 264.7 and mouse fibroblasts (NIH/3T3). The wound healing activity was evaluated in mouse fibroblasts (NIH/3T3) by the scratch assay. RESULTS The HRW is mainly characterized by hydroxycinnamic acids and the essential oil is characterized by high amounts of β-pinene (54.5%), cadin-4-en-7-ol (9.5%), Z-β-ocimene (6.0%) and Ƴ-terpinene (4.6%). Both extracts showed high antioxidant potential in different assays. Additionally, only the hydrodistillation residual water showed anti-inflammatory activity (IC50 of 330 μg/mL). On the other hand, only the EO showed antifungal activity, particularly against Epidermophyton floccosum (MIC and MLC values of 0.16 μL/mL), and wound healing activity. Bothe extracts were not cytotoxic to macrophages CONCLUSIONS: The by-product HRW contains safe bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect and the EO shows antioxidant properties, antifungal activity against dermatophytes and wound healing effect in skin cells. Overall, our results support the interest and economic value of two extracts obtained from a Portuguese native species and provide scientific validation to some of its traditional uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Inês Rocha
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Sciences and Technology of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Pereira
- CNC, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Portugal; CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Polo I, 1(st)floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Moreira
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CNC, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF, Research Center for Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Artur Figueirinha
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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20
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Catarino MD, Fernandes I, Oliveira H, Carrascal M, Ferreira R, Silva AMS, Cruz MT, Mateus N, Cardoso SM. Antitumor Activity of Fucus vesiculosus-Derived Phlorotannins through Activation of Apoptotic Signals in Gastric and Colorectal Tumor Cell Lines. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7604. [PMID: 34299223 PMCID: PMC8307049 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Seaweeds are one of the largest producers of biomass in the marine environment and a source of multiple bioactive metabolites with valuable health benefits. Among these, phlorotannins have been widely recognized for their promising bioactive properties. The potential antitumor capacity of Fucus vesiculosus-derived phlorotannins remains, however, poorly explored, especially in gastrointestinal tract-related tumors. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic properties and possible mechanisms by which F. vesiculosus crude extract (CRD), phlorotannin-rich extract (EtOAc), and further phlorotannin-purified fractions (F1-F9) trigger cell death on different tumor cell lines of the gastrointestinal tract, using flow cytometry. The results indicate that F. vesiculosus samples exert specific cytotoxicity against tumor cell lines without affecting the viability of normal cells. Moreover, it was found that, among the nine different phlorotannin fractions tested, F5 was the most active against both Caco-2 colorectal and MKN-28 gastric cancer cells, inducing death via activation of both apoptosis and necrosis. The UHPLC-MS analysis of this fraction revealed, among others, the presence of a compound tentatively identified as eckstolonol and another as fucofurodiphlorethol, which could be mainly responsible for the promising cytotoxic effects observed in this sample. Overall, the results herein reported contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind the antitumor properties of F. vesiculosus phlorotannin-rich extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo D. Catarino
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (M.D.C.); (R.F.); (A.M.S.S.)
| | - Iva Fernandes
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (I.F.); (H.O.); (N.M.)
| | - Hélder Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (I.F.); (H.O.); (N.M.)
| | - Mylene Carrascal
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (M.C.); (M.T.C.)
| | - Rita Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (M.D.C.); (R.F.); (A.M.S.S.)
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (M.D.C.); (R.F.); (A.M.S.S.)
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Sciences Campus, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (M.C.); (M.T.C.)
| | - Nuno Mateus
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (I.F.); (H.O.); (N.M.)
| | - Susana M. Cardoso
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (M.D.C.); (R.F.); (A.M.S.S.)
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21
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Oliveira C, Calmeiro J, Carrascal MA, Falcão A, Gomes C, Miguel Neves B, Teresa Cruz M. Exosomes as new therapeutic vectors for pancreatic cancer treatment. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2021; 161:4-14. [PMID: 33561524 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest cancers with a very short rate of survival and commonly without symptoms in its early stage. This absence of symptoms can lead to a late diagnosis associated with an advanced metastasis process, for which therapy is not effective. Although with extensive research in this field, the 5-year survival rate has not increased significantly. Notwithstanding, novel insights on risk factors, genetic mutations and molecular mechanisms pave the way for novel therapeutics that urge with a significant part of PC patients presenting resistance to chemotherapy treatments. Exosomes are presented as a promising strategy, working as delivery systems, since they can transport and release their cargoes after fusing with the membrane of pancreatic cells. Exosomes present advantages over liposomes, being less toxic and reaching higher levels in the bloodstream, working as molecule carriers that can inhibit oncogenes, activating tumor suppressor genes and inducing immune responses as well as controlling cell growth. This review intends to provide an overview about the scientific and clinical studies regarding the entire process, from isolation and purification of exosomes, to their design and transformation into anti-oncogenic drug delivering systems, particularly to target PC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constança Oliveira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Calmeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mylène A Carrascal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Tecnimede Group, 2710-089 Sintra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, CIBIT, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Célia Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, iCBR, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, 300-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine, iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
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22
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Domingues R, Pereira C, Cruz MT, Silva A. Therapies for Alzheimer's disease: a metabolic perspective. Mol Genet Metab 2021; 132:162-172. [PMID: 33549409 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2021.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common forms of dementia in the elderly. Currently, there are over 50 million cases of dementia worldwide and it is expected that it will reach 136 million by 2050. AD is described as a neurodegenerative disease that gradually compromises memory and learning capacity. Patients often exhibit brain glucose hypometabolism and are more susceptible to develop type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance in comparison with age-matched controls. This suggests that there is a link between both pathologies. Glucose metabolism and the tricarboxylic acid cycle are tightly related to mitochondrial performance and energy production. Impairment of both these pathways can evoke oxidative damage on mitochondria and key proteins linked to several hallmarks of AD. Glycation is also another type of post-translational modification often reported in AD, which might impair the function of proteins that participate in metabolic pathways thought to be involved in this illness. Despite needing further research, therapies based on insulin treatment, usage of anti-diabetes drugs or some form of dietary intervention, have shown to be promising therapeutic approaches for AD in its early stages of progression and will be unveiled in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Domingues
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Claúdia Pereira
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal.
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23
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Calmeiro J, Mendes L, Duarte IF, Leitão C, Tavares AR, Ferreira DA, Gomes C, Serra J, Falcão A, Cruz MT, Carrascal MA, Neves BM. In-Depth Analysis of the Impact of Different Serum-Free Media on the Production of Clinical Grade Dendritic Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2021; 11:593363. [PMID: 33613517 PMCID: PMC7893095 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.593363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)-based antitumor vaccines have proven to be a safe approach, but often fail to generate robust results between trials. Translation to the clinic has been hindered in part by the lack of standard operation procedures for vaccines production, namely the definition of optimal culture conditions during ex-vivo DC differentiation. Here we sought to compare the ability of three clinical grade serum-free media, DendriMACS, AIM-V, and X-VIVO 15, alongside with fetal bovine serum-supplemented Roswell Park Memorial Institute Medium (RPMI), to support the differentiation of monocyte-derived DCs (Mo-DCs). Under these different culture conditions, phenotype, cell metabolomic profiles, response to maturation stimuli, cytokines production, allogenic T cell stimulatory capacity, as well as priming of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells and activation of autologous natural killer (NK) cells were analyzed. Immature Mo-DCs differentiated in AIM-V or X-VIVO 15 presented lower levels of CD1c, CD1a, and higher expression of CD11c, when compared to cells obtained with DendriMACS. Upon stimulation, only AIM-V or X-VIVO 15 DCs acquired a full mature phenotype, which supports their enhanced capacity to polarize T helper cell type 1 subset, to prime antigen-specific CD8+ T cells and to activate NK cells. CD8+ T cells and NK cells resulting from co-culture with AIM-V or X-VIVO 15 DCs also showed superior cytolytic activity. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomic analysis revealed that superior DC immunostimulatory capacities correlate with an enhanced catabolism of amino acids and glucose. Overall, our data highlight the impact of critically defining the culture medium used in the production of DCs for clinical application in cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, the manipulation of metabolic state during differentiation could be envisaged as a strategy to enhance desired cell characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Calmeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Mendes
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Iola F Duarte
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Catarina Leitão
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Adriana R Tavares
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Daniel Alexandre Ferreira
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Célia Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Pedreiro S, da Ressurreição S, Lopes M, Cruz MT, Batista T, Figueirinha A, Ramos F. Crepis vesicaria L. subsp. taraxacifolia Leaves: Nutritional Profile, Phenolic Composition and Biological Properties. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 18:E151. [PMID: 33379308 PMCID: PMC7796387 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Crepis vesicaria subsp. taraxacifolia (Cv) of Asteraceae family is used as food and in traditional medicine. However there are no studies on its nutritional value, phenolic composition and biological activities. In the present work, a nutritional analysis of Cv leaves was performed and its phenolic content and biological properties evaluated. The nutritional profile was achieved by gas chromatography (GC). A 70% ethanolic extract was prepared and characterized by HLPC-PDA-ESI/MSn. The quantification of chicoric acid was determined by HPLC-PDA. Subsequently, it was evaluated its antioxidant activity by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods. The anti-inflammatory activity and cellular viability was assessed in Raw 264.7 macrophages. On wet weight basis, carbohydrates were the most abundant macronutrients (9.99%), followed by minerals (2.74%) (mainly K, Ca and Na), protein (1.04%) and lipids (0.69%), with a low energetic contribution (175.19 KJ/100 g). The Cv extract is constituted essentially by phenolic acids as caffeic, ferulic and quinic acid derivatives being the major phenolic constituent chicoric acid (130.5 mg/g extract). The extract exhibited antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays and inhibited the nitric oxide (NO) production induced by LPS (IC50 = 0.428 ± 0.007 mg/mL) without cytotoxicity at all concentrations tested. Conclusions: Given the nutritional and phenolic profile and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Cv could be a promising useful source of functional food ingredients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Pedreiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.T.C.); (T.B.); (F.R.)
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandrine da Ressurreição
- Polytechnic of Coimbra, Coimbra Agriculture School, Bencanta, 3045-601 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Research Centre for Natural Resources, Environment and Society (CERNAS), Escola Superior Agrária de Coimbra, Bencanta, 3045-601 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Lopes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.T.C.); (T.B.); (F.R.)
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.T.C.); (T.B.); (F.R.)
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Batista
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.T.C.); (T.B.); (F.R.)
- CIEPQPF, FFUC, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Artur Figueirinha
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.T.C.); (T.B.); (F.R.)
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Fernando Ramos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (S.P.); (M.L.); (M.T.C.); (T.B.); (F.R.)
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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25
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Silva A, Oliveira AS, Vaz CV, Correia S, Ferreira R, Breitenfeld L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Pereira CMF, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A, Cruz MT. Anti-inflammatory potential of Portuguese thermal waters. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22313. [PMID: 33339881 PMCID: PMC7749128 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79394-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In light of Medical Hydrology, thermal waters (TW) are all-natural mineral waters that emerge inside a thermal resort and have therapeutic applications. Their beneficial effect has been empirically recognized for centuries, being indicated for symptom alleviation and/or treatment of several diseases, almost all associated with inflammation. Indeed, an anti-inflammatory effect has been attributed to many different Portuguese TW but there is no scientific validation supporting this empiric knowledge. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of 14 TW pertaining to thermal centers located in the Central Region of Portugal, and grouped according to their ionic profile. Mouse macrophage cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a Toll-like receptor 4 agonist, were exposed to culture medium prepared in TW. Metabolism, nitric oxide (NO) production, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression levels and the scavenging capacity of TW, were investigated in vitro. 11 out of 14 TW reduced NO production and/or iNOS expression, and/or scavenging activity, in macrophages exposed to LPS. The sulphated/calcic TW did not show any effect on at least one of the inflammatory parameters evaluated. Two sulphurous/bicarbonate/sodic TW and the sulphurous/chlorinated/sodic TW promoted an increase in NO production and/or iNOS expression. Our results validate, for the first time, the anti-inflammatory properties of Portuguese TW, supporting their therapeutic use in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases and promoting their putative application in cosmetic products and medical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Polo I, 1st Floor, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Faculty of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Polo 3, IBILI 3rd Floor, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - A S Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C V Vaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - S Correia
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - L Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - J Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C M F Pereira
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Polo I, 1st Floor, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
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26
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Conte FL, Santiago KB, Conti BJ, Cardoso EDO, Oliveira LPG, Feltran GDS, Zambuzzi WF, Golim MDA, Cruz MT, Sforcin JM. Propolis from southeastern Brazil produced by Apis mellifera affects innate immunity by modulating cell marker expression, cytokine production and intracellular pathways in human monocytes. J Pharm Pharmacol 2020; 73:135-144. [PMID: 33793799 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgaa023] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Propolis is a bee-made product used for centuries due to its diverse biological properties, including its immunomodulatory action. This work aimed at investigating whether propolis may affect monocyte functions challenged with retinoic acid (RA), B subunit of Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin (EtxB), human melanoma-associated antigen-1 (MAGE-1) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). METHODS Monocytes from healthy donors were treated with the stimuli separately or in the presence of propolis. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay, cell marker expression was assessed by flow cytometry, cytokine production by ELISA, gene expression by RT-qPCR. KEY FINDINGS Propolis alone maintained TLR-2, TLR-4, HLA-DR, CD40 and CD80 expression in the monocytes; however, its combination with either MAGE-1 or LPS decreased CD40 expression triggered by the stimuli. Propolis maintained RA action on cell marker expression. Propolis inhibited TNF-α (with either EtxB or MAGE-1) and IL-6 (with either RA or MAGE-1), and increased IL-10 (with MAGE-1) production. Propolis downmodulated LC3 expression induced by LPS. It also induced a lower NF-kB expression than control cells and its combination with RA induced a higher expression than the stimulus alone. CONCLUSIONS Propolis potentially affected innate immunity by downmodulating the monocytes pro-inflammatory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Lopes Conte
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karina Basso Santiago
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno José Conti
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliza de Oliveira Cardoso
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Pires Garcia Oliveira
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geórgia da Silva Feltran
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Willian Fernando Zambuzzi
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marjorie de Assis Golim
- Botucatu Blood Center, School of Medicine, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neurosciences and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Maurício Sforcin
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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Calmeiro J, Carrascal MA, Tavares AR, Ferreira DA, Gomes C, Cruz MT, Falcão A, Neves BM. Pharmacological combination of nivolumab with dendritic cell vaccines in cancer immunotherapy: An overview. Pharmacol Res 2020; 164:105309. [PMID: 33212291 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, immunotherapy led to a paradigm shift in the treatment of numerous malignancies. Alongside with monoclonal antibodies blocking programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 and cytotoxic T- lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) immune checkpoints, cell-based approaches such as CAR-T cells and dendritic cell (DC) vaccines have strongly contributed to pushing forward this thrilling field. While initial strategies were mainly focused on monotherapeutic regimens, it is now consensual that the combination of immunotherapies tackling multiple cancer hallmarks can result in superior clinical outcomes. Here, we review in depth the pharmacological combination of DC-based vaccines that boost tumour elimination by eliciting and expanding effector immune cells, with the PD-1 inhibitor Nivolumab that allows blocking key tumour immune escape mechanisms. This combination represents an important step in cancer therapy, with a significant enhancement in patient survival in several types of tumours, paving an important way in establishing combinatorial immunotherapeutic strategies as first-line treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Calmeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mylène A Carrascal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal; Tecnimede Group, 2710-089, Sintra, Portugal
| | - Adriana Ramos Tavares
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Daniel Alexandre Ferreira
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, iCBR, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Célia Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, iCBR, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, 300-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, FFUC, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, CIBIT, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine, iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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28
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Oliveira AS, Vaz CV, Silva A, Correia S, Ferreira R, Breitenfeld L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Pereira C, Cruz MT, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A. In vitro evaluation of potential benefits of a silica-rich thermal water (Monfortinho Thermal Water) in hyperkeratotic skin conditions. Int J Biometeorol 2020; 64:1957-1968. [PMID: 32821956 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-020-01986-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Thermal therapy has gained popularity over the years, and Portugal is one of the richest European countries in mineral therapeutic waters. The interest in the use of these natural mineral waters (NMW) for dermatologic purposes is continuously growing but there is a lack of scientific studies supporting its health benefits. The study aims to investigate the effect of a silica-rich NMW in skin cell homeostasis using two representative cell lines of the epidermis and dermis, keratinocytes and fibroblasts, respectively, in addition to a macrophage cell line. Mouse skin fibroblasts, macrophages and human keratinocytes were exposed to culture medium prepared with NMW. Cell metabolism (MTT or resazurin assays) and cell proliferation (trypan blue exclusion dye assay) were investigated. Migration (scratch-wound assay) and senescence (β-galactosidase activity assay) of fibroblasts were also studied. Exposure to NMW compromised the cell metabolic state of all the cell lines tested. This impairment was more pronounced in skin keratinocytes (60% reduction) relatively to skin fibroblasts (45% reduction) or macrophages (25% reduction). Proliferation of macrophages was reduced threefold upon exposure to thermal water, compared to controls. No differences were observed in migration between fibroblasts exposed to NMW and controls, while a potentiation of senescence of these cells was observed. Our results shed light in the bioactive effects of a silica-rich NMW supporting its therapeutic use. A reduction in both cell metabolism and proliferation of keratinocytes and macrophages supports the empirical clinical benefits of this NMW in hyperkeratotic conditions, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofia Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cátia Vicente Vaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Correia
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Raquel Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luiza Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - José Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rita Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, UBImedical, Estrada Nacional 506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Pereira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, UBImedical, Estrada Nacional 506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal.
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Silva A, Pereira M, Carrascal MA, Brites G, Neves B, Moreira P, Resende R, Silva MM, Santos AE, Pereira C, Cruz MT. Calcium Modulation, Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Skin Allergens Targeting the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Alzheimer's Disease Cellular Models. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207791. [PMID: 33096789 PMCID: PMC7594024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Experimental evidence highlights nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) as a molecular target in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The well-known effect of electrophilic cysteine-reactive skin allergens on Nrf2-activation led to the hypothesis that these compounds could have a therapeutic role in AD. This was further supported by the neuroprotective activity of the skin allergen dimethyl fumarate (DMF), demonstrated in in vivo models of neurodegenerative diseases. We evaluated the effect of the cysteine-reactive allergens 1,4-phenylenediamine (PPD) and methyl heptine carbonate (MHC) on (1) neuronal redox imbalance and calcium dyshomeostasis using N2a wild-type (N2a-wt) and human APP-overexpressing neuronal cells (wild-type, N2a-APPwt) and (2) on neuroinflammation, using microglia BV-2 cells exposed to LPS (lipopolysaccharide). Phthalic anhydride (PA, mainly lysine-reactive), was used as a negative control. DMF, PPD and MHC increased Hmox1 gene and HMOX1 protein levels in N2a-APPwt cells suggesting Nrf2-dependent antioxidant activity. MHC, but also PA, rescued N2a-APPwt mitochondrial membrane potential and calcium levels in a Nrf2-independent pathway. All the chemicals showed anti-inflammatory activity by decreasing iNOS protein in microglia. This work highlights the potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory role of the selected skin allergens in in vitro models of AD, and supports further studies envisaging the validation of the results using in vivo AD models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (M.T.C.)
| | - Marta Pereira
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | | | - Gonçalo Brites
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Bruno Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute for Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Patrícia Moreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Rosa Resende
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
- University of Coimbra, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Manuel Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Armanda E. Santos
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Cláudia Pereira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (P.M.); (R.R.); (M.M.S.); (A.E.S.); (C.P.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (M.T.C.)
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30
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Oliveira AS, Vaz CV, Silva A, Ferreira SS, Correia S, Ferreira R, Breitenfeld L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Pereira C, Cruz MT, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A. Chemical signature and antimicrobial activity of Central Portuguese Natural Mineral Waters against selected skin pathogens. Environ Geochem Health 2020; 42:2039-2057. [PMID: 31776886 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-019-00473-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The common therapeutic indications of Portuguese Natural Mineral Waters (NMWs) are primarily for respiratory, rheumatic and musculoskeletal systems. However, these NMWs have been increasingly sought for dermatologic purposes. Opposing to what is observed in the major European Thermal Centres, there are few scientific evidences supporting the use of Portuguese NMWs for clinical applications. The aim of this study was to characterize the antimicrobial profile of individual NMWs from the central region of Portugal and correlate the results with their physicochemical characterization. An extensive multivariate analysis (principal component analysis) was also performed to further investigate this possible correlation. Six collection strains representing skin microbiota, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Corynebacterium amycolatum, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Cutibacterium acnes, were analysed, and their antimicrobial profile was determined using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute M07-A10, M45-A2, M11-A6 and M27-A3 microdilution methods. Different NMWs presented different antimicrobial profiles against the strains used; the physicochemical composition of NMWs seemed to be correlated with the different susceptibility profiles. Cutibacterium acnes showed a particularly high susceptibility to all NMWs belonging sulphurous/bicarbonated/sodic ionic profile, exhibiting microbial reductions up to 65%. However, due to the complex physicochemical composition of each water an overall conclusion regarding the effect of a specific ion on the growth of different microorganisms is yet to be known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofia Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cátia Vicente Vaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Saraiva Ferreira
- Department of Mathematics and Center of Mathematics and Applications, University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês D'Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Sara Correia
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Raquel Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luiza Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - José Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Child and Woman's Health Department, Cova da Beira Hospital Centre, Quinta do Alvito, 6200-251, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rita Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, UBImedical, Estrada Nacional 506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Pereira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, UBImedical, Estrada Nacional 506, 6200-284, Covilhã, Portugal.
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Alves-Silva JM, Piras A, Porcedda S, Falconieri D, Maxia A, Gonçalves MJ, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L. Chemical characterization and bioactivity of the essential oil from Santolina insularis, a Sardinian endemism. Nat Prod Res 2020; 36:445-449. [PMID: 32496130 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2020.1774764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Santolina insularis is a Sardinian endemism that is widely used in traditional medicine. The essential oil was obtained with a yield of 2.7% and is mainly characterized by β-phellandrene (22.6%), myrcene (11.4%) and artemisia ketone (7.6%). The oil significantly reduced NO production without affecting macrophages viability. In addition, it substantially inhibited the expression of two key pro-inflammatory enzymes, iNOS and COX-2 (71% and 25% at 0.54 mg/mL). Furthermore, the oil had a promising antifungal activity being Cryptococcus neoformans (MIC = 0.13 mg/mL) and the majority of dermatophytes (MIC = 0.13 mg/mL) the most susceptible fungi. Moreover, it significantly decreased the yeast-to-hypha transition (80% inhibition at 0.13 mg/mL) on C. albicans long before showing inhibitory effects. Overall, these results show that S. insularis could be applied in the treatment of fungal infections and associated inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Piras
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvia Porcedda
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Maxia
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Botany section, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- University of Coimbra, iCBR, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- University of Coimbra, iCBR, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, CNC, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- University of Coimbra, iCBR, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
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Faria CP, Neves BM, Lourenço Á, Cruz MT, Martins JD, Silva A, Pereira S, Sousa MDC. Giardia lamblia Decreases NF-κB p65 RelA Protein Levels and Modulates LPS-Induced Pro-Inflammatory Response in Macrophages. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6234. [PMID: 32277133 PMCID: PMC7148380 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63231-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan Giardia lamblia is the most common cause of parasitic gastrointestinal infection worldwide. The parasite developed sophisticated, yet not completely disclosed, mechanisms to escape immune system and growth in the intestine. To further understand the interaction of G. lamblia with host immune cells, we investigated the ability of parasites to modulate the canonical activation of mouse macrophages (Raw 264.7 cell line) and human monocyte-derived macrophages triggered by the TLR4 agonist, lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We observed that G. lamblia impairs LPS-evoked pro-inflammatory status in these macrophage-like cells through inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and subsequent NO production. This effect was in part due to the activity of three G. lamblia proteases, a 135 kDa metalloprotease and two cysteine proteases with 75 and 63 kDa, that cleave the p65RelA subunit of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Moreover, Tnf and Ccl4 transcription was increased in the presence of the parasite. Overall, our data indicates that G. lamblia modulates macrophages inflammatory response through impairment of the NF-κB, thus silencing a crucial signaling pathway of the host innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Perez Faria
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ágata Lourenço
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João D Martins
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sónia Pereira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria do Céu Sousa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Calmeiro J, Carrascal MA, Tavares AR, Ferreira DA, Gomes C, Falcão A, Cruz MT, Neves BM. Dendritic Cell Vaccines for Cancer Immunotherapy: The Role of Human Conventional Type 1 Dendritic Cells. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12020158. [PMID: 32075343 PMCID: PMC7076373 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12020158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Throughout the last decades, dendritic cell (DC)-based anti-tumor vaccines have proven to be a safe therapeutic approach, although with inconsistent clinical results. The functional limitations of ex vivo monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) commonly used in these therapies are one of the pointed explanations for their lack of robustness. Therefore, a great effort has been made to identify DC subsets with superior features for the establishment of effective anti-tumor responses and to apply them in therapeutic approaches. Among characterized human DC subpopulations, conventional type 1 DCs (cDC1) have emerged as a highly desirable tool for empowering anti-tumor immunity. This DC subset excels in its capacity to prime antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells and to activate natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells, which are critical factors for an effective anti-tumor immune response. Here, we sought to revise the immunobiology of cDC1 from their ontogeny to their development, regulation and heterogeneity. We also address the role of this functionally thrilling DC subset in anti-tumor immune responses and the most recent efforts to apply it in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Calmeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.C.); (A.R.T.); (A.F.); (M.T.C.)
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Mylène A. Carrascal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Tecnimede Group, 2710-089 Sintra, Portugal
| | - Adriana Ramos Tavares
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.C.); (A.R.T.); (A.F.); (M.T.C.)
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Daniel Alexandre Ferreira
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research-iCBR, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (D.A.F.); (C.G.)
| | - Célia Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research-iCBR, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (D.A.F.); (C.G.)
- Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology-CIBB, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.C.); (A.R.T.); (A.F.); (M.T.C.)
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research-CIBIT, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.C.); (A.R.T.); (A.F.); (M.T.C.)
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology-CNC, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-964182278
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Liberal J, Costa G, Carmo A, Vitorino R, Marques C, Domingues MR, Domingues P, Gonçalves AC, Alves R, Sarmento-Ribeiro AB, Girão H, Cruz MT, Batista MT. Chemical characterization and cytotoxic potential of an ellagitannin-enriched fraction from Fragaria vesca leaves. ARAB J CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2015.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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35
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Rodrigues V, Cabral C, Évora L, Ferreira I, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L. Chemical composition, anti-inflammatory activity and cytotoxicity of Thymus zygis L. subsp. sylvestris (Hoffmanns. & Link) Cout. essential oil and its main compounds. ARAB J CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2015.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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36
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Alves-Silva JM, Zuzarte M, Gonçalves MJ, Cruz MT, Cavaleiro C, Salgueiro L. Unveiling the bioactive potential of the essential oil of a Portuguese endemism, Santolina impressa. J Ethnopharmacol 2019; 244:112120. [PMID: 31352022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Santolina species are widely used in traditional medicine in the Mediterranean region for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, digestive, and analgesic properties. S. impressa, a Portuguese endemism, is traditionally recognized for its beneficial anti-inflammatory properties in several gastrointestinal affections and is also used in oropharyngeal infections. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study aims to characterize the essential oil of S. impressa growing in Portugal and validate its traditional uses by assessing the anti-inflammatory potential of its essential oil at concentrations without toxicity. The antifungal properties of the oil are also addressed, as well as, the putative mechanism of action underlying these effects. MATERIAL AND METHODS The essential oil was obtained in accordance with the European Pharmacopoeia and characterized by GC and GC-MS. The anti-inflammatory potential of the oil was assessed on LPS-stimulated macrophages, through the production of nitric oxide (NO) using the Griess reaction. Putative mechanisms of action included the role of the oil as a NO scavenger, as well as its effect on the expression of two key pro-inflammatory enzymes, iNOS and COX-2 by Western blot analysis. The antifungal effect of the oil was evaluated according to the CLSI guidelines on several yeast and filamentous strains and on two major virulence factors in Candida albicans, namely germ tubes and biofilms. Ultrastructural modifications on dermatophytes were also unveiled by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS S. impressa essential oil was primarily characterized by the presence of monoterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated monoterpenes, being the main compounds β-pinene (22.5%), 1,8-cineole (10.0%), limonene (9.1%), camphor (8.1%) and β-phellandrene (8.0%). A significant decrease (ca 60.0%) in nitrite levels was observed in LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with the oil without affecting cell viability. This effect could be explained by a great reduction on iNOS expression (85.0% inhibition), thus underpinning the anti-inflammatory potential of the oil. The oil also showed a fungicidal effect, being more active against Cryptococcus neoformans, Epidermophyton floccosum and Trichophytum rubrum. For these dermatophytes, significant ultrastructural modifications in cell wall structure were detected. Strikingly, for C. albicans, the oil showed a significant anti-infective potential (at 0.07 mg/mL for germ tube inhibition and 0.02 mg/mL for biofilm disruption) before fungal growth inhibition occurred. CONCLUSIONS Our results validate the main traditional use ascribed to S. impressa, namely its anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, an antifungal potential is pointed out, thus corroborating the antimicrobial uses and adding new value to an endemic species poorly recognized by the industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Alves-Silva
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M Zuzarte
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M J Gonçalves
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M T Cruz
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - C Cavaleiro
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - L Salgueiro
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
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37
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Calmeiro J, Carrascal M, Gomes C, Falcão A, Cruz MT, Neves BM. Biomaterial-based platforms for in situ dendritic cell programming and their use in antitumor immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2019; 7:238. [PMID: 31484548 PMCID: PMC6727507 DOI: 10.1186/s40425-019-0716-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are central players in the immune system, with an exquisite capacity to initiate and modulate immune responses. These functional characteristics have led to intense research on the development of DC-based immunotherapies, particularly for oncologic diseases. During recent decades, DC-based vaccines have generated very promising results in animal studies, and more than 300 clinical assays have demonstrated the safety profile of this approach. However, clinical data are inconsistent, and clear evidence of meaningful efficacy is still lacking. One of the reasons for this lack of evidence is the limited functional abilities of the used ex vivo-differentiated DCs. Therefore, alternative approaches for targeting and modulating endogenous DC subpopulations have emerged as an attractive concept. Here, we sought to revise the evolution of several strategies for the in situ mobilization and modulation of DCs. The first approaches using chemokine-secreting irradiated tumor cells are addressed, and special attention is given to the cutting-edge injectable bioengineered platforms, programmed to release chemoattractants, tumor antigens and DC maturating agents. Finally, we discuss how our increasing knowledge of DC biology, the use of neoantigens and their combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors can leverage the refinement of these polymeric vaccines to boost their antitumor efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Calmeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mylène Carrascal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Tecnimede Group, Sintra, Portugal
| | - Célia Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Agra do Crasto - Edifício 30, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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Maciel E, Neves BM, Martins J, Colombo S, Cruz MT, Domingues P, Domingues MRM. Oxidized phosphatidylserine mitigates LPS-triggered macrophage inflammatory status through modulation of JNK and NF-kB signaling cascades. Cell Signal 2019; 61:30-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Miranda M, Cruz MT, Vitorino C, Cabral C. Nanostructuring lipid carriers using Ridolfia segetum (L.) Moris essential oil. Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl 2019; 103:109804. [PMID: 31349527 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2019.109804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of essential oils is widely recognized since antiquity, due to their antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulatory properties. In particular, their physicochemical characteristics, such as lipophilicity and permeation enhancement effect have sparked attention for the development of innovative lipid nanosystems. The present work aimed at developing a differentiated nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) based formulation for topical application, using the Ridolfia segetum essential oil (REO), isolated by hydrodistillation from this Portuguese aromatic plant, with a dual key function, as active and simultaneously nanostructuring component of the nanoparticles. The incorporation of the essential oil in the solid lipid matrix, followed by the respective hot high-pressure homogenization, led to particles with a size of 143 ± 5 nm, along with a polydispersity index of 0.21, a zeta potential of -16.3 ± 0.6 mV, encapsulation efficacy of ca. 100% and loading capacity of 1.4%. A comprehensive physicochemical characterization of the lipid nanosystem, including morphology, structural, thermal and accelerated stability analysis confirmed its nanostructured nature. REO-NLC was further jellified for designing an appropriate semisolid topical dosage form. In vitro release, permeation and skin retention studies evidenced a sustained release behaviour and a reservoir-like effect, suitable for a prolonged topical delivery. Cytotoxicity studies, performed in fibroblasts and keratinocytes, revealed the biocompatibility of the developed formulations. This work highlights the critical role of REO as a multiaddressable compound, both as active pharmaceutical ingredient and nanostructuring agent, able to tailor the permeation enhancement profile of nanoparticles towards topical delivery purposes and concomitantly presenting a safety profile for cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Miranda
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Chemistry Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centre for Neurosciences and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Pólo I, 1st floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carla Vitorino
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Chemistry Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Centre for Neurosciences and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Pólo I, 1st floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Célia Cabral
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, CNC.IBILI Consortium & CIBB Consortium, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Calmeiro J, Carrascal M, Mendes L, Duarte IF, Gomes C, Serra J, Falcão A, Cruz MT, Neves BM. Development of a novel dendritic cell-based immunotherapy targeting cancer stem cells. J Clin Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2019.37.15_suppl.e14009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
e14009 Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) are one of the central tools in cellular anti-tumor immunotherapy, being characterized by their capacity for acquiring and processing antigens and ability to produce strong antitumor immune responses. The production of clinical grade ex-vivo monocyte-derived DCs (Mo-DCs) is the most frequent approach for antitumor vaccines production. Recently, therapeutic resistance to radio/chemotherapy and disease recurrence was shown to be in part due to a small cancer stem cell (CSCs) population present in tumors. Methods: Here, we aim to target and eradicate CSCs by developing a novel DC-based immunotherapy vaccine for pancreatic and non-small cells lung cancer (NSCLC), comparing the loading of CSCs vs. classical tumor lysates. Results: CSCs from PANC-1 (pancreatic cancer) and A549 (NSCLC) cell lines were successfully isolated and characterized, overexpressing stem-like markers: NANOG, OCT4, SOX2 and CD133. CSCs resistance to Gemcitabine was also assessed. Before comparing the 2 types of vaccine loading, we also analyzed the impact of 3 GMP free-serum culture media on the phenotype and functional abilities of Mo-DCs. DCs cultured in X-VIVO 15 and AIM-V media show enhanced production of IL-12 and are able to induce a superior stimulation of T cells, mainly CTLs and Th1 subsets. By contrast, DCs cultured in DendriMACS are more prone to induce Treg polarization. Conclusions: Overall, our data demonstrate that blood monocytic precursors present considerable plasticity allowing a tailored differentiation of DCs just by changing the nutritive support. We also highlight the need of critically defining the culture medium to be used in DC cancer immunotherapy in order to attain desired cell characteristics and by consequent robust responses. Finally, our preliminary results indicate that loading DCs with CSCs antigens may be an effective strategy to target and destroy this resilient cancer cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Calmeiro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Luís Mendes
- CICEC–Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Iola F. Duarte
- CICEC–Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Célia Gomes
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Amilcar Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine – iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Alves M, Gonçalves MJ, Zuzarte M, Alves-Silva JM, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Salgueiro L. Unveiling the Antifungal Potential of Two Iberian Thyme Essential Oils: Effect on C. albicans Germ Tube and Preformed Biofilms. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:446. [PMID: 31130859 PMCID: PMC6509473 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [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: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections remain a burden worldwide, thus underpinning the need for effective new therapeutic approaches. In the present study, the antifungal effect of the essential oils of two thyme species, Thymus camphoratus and Thymus carnosus, used in traditional medicine in Portugal, as well as their major compounds was assessed. A special focus was placed on their effect on Candida albicans virulence factors. Also, the safety profile of the essential oils was assessed on keratinocytes. The essential oils were analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). The minimal inhibitory and minimal fungicidal concentrations of the essential oils and their main compounds were assessed on reference and clinical strains. Also, their effect on C. albicans germ tube formation, metabolism, and biofilm disruption were considered. T. camphoratus oil was rich in 1,8-cineole and α-pinene whereas T. carnosus oil showed high amounts of borneol and camphene. Regarding the antifungal effect, both oils were more active against Cryptococcus neoformans and dermatophytes and very effective in inhibiting C. albicans germ tube formation, at doses well below their MIC and in a higher extend than the isolated compounds and fluconazole, an antifungal drug widely used in the clinic. The oils also disrupted preformed C. albicans biofilms. Furthermore, no toxicity was observed at pharmacological relevant concentrations towards keratinocytes. Our study validates the traditional uses ascribed to these Iberian species. Furthermore, it brings new insights on the antifungal potential and mechanism of action of these thyme species, thus paving the way for the development of novel effective antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Alves
- CIEPQPF - Department of Chemical Engineering and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria José Gonçalves
- CIEPQPF - Department of Chemical Engineering and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mónica Zuzarte
- Faculty of Medicine, CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge M Alves-Silva
- CIEPQPF - Department of Chemical Engineering and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- CIEPQPF - Department of Chemical Engineering and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- CIEPQPF - Department of Chemical Engineering and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Matos P, Figueirinha A, Paranhos A, Nunes F, Cruz P, Geraldes CFGC, Cruz MT, Batista MT. Bioactivity of Acanthus mollis - Contribution of benzoxazinoids and phenylpropanoids. J Ethnopharmacol 2018; 227:198-205. [PMID: 30201231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Acanthus mollis is a plant native to the Mediterranean region, traditionally used as diuretic, anti-inflammatory and soothing of the mucous membranes of the digestive and urinary tract and externally as healing of wounds and burns, also demonstrating analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. However, studies focused on its phytochemical composition as well as scientific proof of Acanthus mollis efficacy are scarce. AIM OF THE STUDY The proposed work aims to perform a phytochemical characterization and evaluation of the therapeutic potential of Acanthus mollis, based on biological properties that support its traditional uses. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this study, an 96% ethanol extract from Acanthus mollis leaves was obtained and its phytochemical composition evaluated using High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detector coupled to Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSn). The chemical structure of the compound isolated was elucidated using 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), 1H-correlation spectroscopy (1H-COSY), heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) and heteronuclear multiple-bond correlation (HMBC). The quantification of the constituents was performed using two external standards (2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one and verbascoside). The antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined measuring the inhibition of nitric oxide production by RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and through lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition assay. The cytotoxicity was screened on two lines (RAW 264.7 and HaCaT) using the resazurin assay. RESULTS Compounds such as verbascoside and its derivatives, as well as benzoxazinoids were found as the main constituents. A percentage of 5.58% was verified for the 2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIBOA) derivatives. DIBOA was the main compound of the extract. Significant concentrations were also found for phenylpropanoids, which constitute about 4.39% of the total compounds identified. This extract showed antioxidant capacity against DPPH (IC50 = 40.00 ± 1.59 μg/mL) and superoxide anion (IC50 = 29.42 ± 1.99 μg/mL). It also evidenced anti-inflammatory potential in RAW 264.7 macrophages, presenting capacity for nitric oxide reduction (IC50 = 28.01 μg/mL). Moreover, in vitro studies have shown that this extract was able to inhibit the lipoxygenase, with an IC50 of 104.39 ± 4.95 µg/mL. Importantly, all effective concentrations were devoid of cytotoxicity in keratinocytes, thus highlighting the safety of the extract for the treatment of skin inflammatory related diseases. Concerning macrophages it was also possible to disclose concentrations showing anti-inflammatory activity and without cytotoxicity (up to 30 µg/mL). The benzoxazinoid DIBOA demonstrated a considerable anti-inflammatory activity suggesting its important contribution to this activity. CONCLUSIONS These results corroborate the anti-inflammatory properties traditionally attributed to this plant. Among the compounds identified in this study, benzoxazinoids exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity that was never previously described. Ethanol seems to be a good option for the extraction of these bioactive compounds, since relevant antioxidant/anti-radical and anti-inflammatory activities were found for this extract.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Matos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Figueirinha
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - A Paranhos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - F Nunes
- Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - P Cruz
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - C F G C Geraldes
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-393 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Batista
- Center for Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
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Mendes AF, Cruz MT, Gualillo O. Editorial: The Physiology of Inflammation-The Final Common Pathway to Disease. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1741. [PMID: 30564144 PMCID: PMC6289041 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandrina Ferreira Mendes
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Oreste Gualillo
- The NEIRID Group (Neuroendocrine Interactions in Rheumatology and Inflammatory Diseases), Servizo Galego de Saude, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago University Clinical Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Almeida Paiva R, Martins-Marques T, Jesus K, Ribeiro-Rodrigues T, Zuzarte M, Silva A, Reis L, da Silva M, Pereira P, Vader P, Petrus Gerardus Sluijter J, Gonçalves L, Cruz MT, Girao H. Ischaemia alters the effects of cardiomyocyte-derived extracellular vesicles on macrophage activation. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 23:1137-1151. [PMID: 30516028 PMCID: PMC6349194 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial ischaemia is associated with an exacerbated inflammatory response, as well as with a deregulation of intercellular communication systems. Macrophages have been implicated in the maintenance of heart homeostasis and in the progression and resolution of the ischaemic injury. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between cardiomyocytes and macrophages remain largely underexplored. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players of cell‐cell communication in cardiac health and disease. Hence, the main objective of this study was to characterize the impact of cardiomyocyte‐derived EVs upon macrophage activation. Results obtained demonstrate that EVs released by H9c2 cells induced a pro‐inflammatory profile in macrophages, via p38MAPK activation and increased expression of iNOS, IL‐1β and IL‐6, being these effects less pronounced with ischaemic EVs. EVs derived from neonatal cardiomyocytes, maintained either in control or ischaemia, induced a similar pattern of p38MAPK activation, expression of iNOS, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10 and TNFα. Importantly, adhesion of macrophages to fibronectin was enhanced by EVs released by cardiomyocytes under ischaemia, whereas phagocytic capacity and adhesion to cardiomyocytes were higher in macrophages incubated with control EVs. Additionally, serum‐circulating EVs isolated from human controls or acute myocardial infarction patients induce macrophage activation. According to our model, in basal conditions, cardiomyocyte‐derived EVs maintain a macrophage profile that ensure heart homeostasis, whereas during ischaemia, this crosstalk is affected, likely impacting healing and post‐infarction remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Almeida Paiva
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tania Martins-Marques
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Katia Jesus
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Monica Zuzarte
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Liliana Reis
- Cardiology Department, CHUC-HG, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Paulo Pereira
- Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pieter Vader
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Petrus Gerardus Sluijter
- Department of Cardiology, Division of Heart & Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Interuniversity Cardiology Institute Netherlands (ICIN), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lino Gonçalves
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Cardiology Department, CHUC-HG, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Henrique Girao
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC.IBILI, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Zuzarte M, Alves-Silva JM, Alves M, Cavaleiro C, Salgueiro L, Cruz MT. New insights on the anti-inflammatory potential and safety profile of Thymus carnosus and Thymus camphoratus essential oils and their main compounds. J Ethnopharmacol 2018; 225:10-17. [PMID: 29933014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Thymus camphoratus and T. carnosus are widely used in Portugal for the treatment of inflammatory-related conditions, such as inflammation of the respiratory tract, being the later also used as an antitussive. AIM OF THE STUDY Bearing in mind the lack of scientific studies focused on the pharmacological activity of Thymus camphoratus and T. carnosus, this work was designed to validate the anti-inflammatory properties ascribed to these traditional species and concomitantly to unveil both the putative molecular mechanisms behind their bioactivity as well as the safety profile of their essential oils and major compounds. MATERIALS AND METHODS The chemical composition of the essential oils was assessed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography - mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). The nitric oxide (NO) scavenging potential of the oils was tested using S-nitroso-N-acetyl-D,L-penicillamine (SNAP) as NO donor. The anti-inflammatory potential of the essential oils and their major compounds was evaluated by measuring the nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages as well as the expression of the pro-inflammatory enzymes, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Importantly, and in an attempt to assess the safety profile of the oils and respective major compounds, their effect on macrophages and hepatocytes viability was also determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. RESULTS T. carnosus essential oil was characterized by high amounts of borneol and camphene whereas T. camphoratus oil was rich in 1,8-cineole and borneol. The later presented higher pharmacological activity showing inhibitory effects towards NO production at lower concentrations (0.16 µL/mL) and concomitantly inhibiting the expression of two crucial pro-inflammatory proteins, iNOS and COX-2 (at 0.32 µL/mL). Since no NO scavenging activity was achieved, it is reasonable to conclude that the anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oils occurs upstream of iNOS expression, probably through inhibition of relevant pro-inflammatory signal transduction pathways. Importantly, at bioactive concentrations, the essential oils were devoid of toxicity towards macrophages and hepatocytes. The activity of the isolated compounds was far from that observed for the essential oils, thus suggesting that the anti-inflammatory activity is due to a synergic effect between several compounds in the mixture. CONCLUSION Overall, the results herein presented sustain and strengthen the anti-inflammatory properties traditionally ascribed to T. carnosus and T. camphoratus. Additionally, the molecular mechanisms associated to their pharmacological activity were highlighted, opening new avenues for the development of effective anti-inflammatory herbal medicinal products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Zuzarte
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Jorge M Alves-Silva
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Melissa Alves
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Carlos Cavaleiro
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Lígia Salgueiro
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Jesus S, Soares E, Cruz MT, Borges O. Exosomes as adjuvants for the recombinant hepatitis B antigen: First report. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2018; 133:1-11. [PMID: 30287267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2018.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, exosomes, a class of extracellular vesicles (EVs), have emerged as key players for inter-cellular communication ultimately modulating the behavior of target cells with countless outcomes. Nevertheless, the potential role of exosomes as vaccine adjuvants remains largely unexplored. Herein, we hypothesized that exosomes derived from immune cells may have an immunostimulatory effect and could constitute a good target towards the development of new fine-tuned vaccine adjuvants. To accomplish this goal, exosomes isolated from lipopolysaccharide endotoxin (LPS)-stimulated human monocytic cell line (THP-1) were characterized and tested for their non-specific immunostimulatory activity when administered subcutaneously to healthy mice; additionally, exosomes' vaccine adjuvant ability was also disclosed after their inclusion in vaccine formulations. The results obtained suggested that the isolated exosomes evoked a pro-inflammatory profile in spleen cells of healthy mice through the induction of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5, also known as RANTES) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β). Moreover, subcutaneous vaccination of mice with exosomes combined with a solution of hepatitis B recombinant antigen (HBsAg) or combined with a suspension containing HBsAg loaded poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL)/chitosan nanoparticles (NPs), induced a humoral immune response quite similar to the one achieved with the experimental control group (HBsAg solution without exosomes). However, exosomes triggered an immunomodulator effect on the cellular immune response, highlighted by the enhancement of IFN-γ secretion. To the best of authors knowledge, this is the first report describing extensively the role of unmodified exosomes as adjuvants and co-adjuvants for hepatitis B vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Jesus
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, 1st floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Edna Soares
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, 1st floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, 1st floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Olga Borges
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, 1st floor, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Ferreira I, Liberal J, Martins JD, Silva A, Neves BM, Cruz MT. Inflammasome in Dendritic Cells Immunobiology: Implications to Diseases and Therapeutic Strategies. Curr Drug Targets 2018; 18:1003-1018. [PMID: 27660056 DOI: 10.2174/1389450117666160921144830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An intricate interplay between innate and adaptive immune cells is crucial for an effective immune response during disease, infection and vaccination. This interplay is mainly performed by dendritic cells (DCs), which are professional antigen presenting cells with unparalleled capacity to translate innate to adaptive immunity. They effectively recognize and uptake antigens, migrate to lymphoid tissues, and activate naïve T-cells. Indeed, DCs have numerous germline encoded pattern recognition receptors (PRR) that recognize conserved pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or danger associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). While some PRRs like Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize PAMPs and DAMPs at the cell surface and in endosomal/lysosomal compartments, others, such as NOD-like receptors (NLRs), act as cytosolic sensors. NLRs activation through recognition of PAMPs and DAMPs leads to the assembly of signaling multimeric protein complexes named inflammasomes. Inflammasomes are important regulators of caspase 1, the enzyme responsible for the proteolytically cleavage of precursors' pro-IL-1β and pro-IL-18 into their active form. OBJECTIVE To unveil how inflammasomes are related to maturation, migration, antigen presenting function and DCs ability to fine tune adaptive immune responses. CONCLUSION Several studies show that in danger/infectious scenarios NLR and TLR synergize to expand DCs maturation, migration, antigen presenting function and adaptive immune system activation. However, in the absence of a danger scenario, and without TLR engagement, inflammasome activation stimulates an immunosuppressive profile on DCs. Overall, it is clear from literature that activation of the inflammasome in DCs should not be viewed in isolation but rather considering its interconnections with the various PPRdriven pathways. Due to the increasing evidences of inflammasome involvement in multiple inflammatory and immune diseases, this information is of utmost importance since precise inflammasome pharmacological targeting could lead to considerable clinical utility through fine-tuned targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Ferreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Liberal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joao D Martins
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Chemistry, Mass Spectrometry Centre, QOPNA, Unioversity of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Melo T, Marques SS, Ferreira I, Cruz MT, Domingues P, Segundo MA, Domingues MRM. New Insights into the Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Nitrated Phospholipids. Lipids 2018; 53:117-131. [DOI: 10.1002/lipd.12007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tânia Melo
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, Department of Chemistry and QOPNA; University of Aveiro; 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Sara S. Marques
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy; University of Porto; 4050-313 Porto Portugal
| | - Isabel Ferreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC); University of Coimbra; 3000-517 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC); University of Coimbra; 3000-517 Coimbra Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy; University of Coimbra; 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Pedro Domingues
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, Department of Chemistry and QOPNA; University of Aveiro; 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Marcela A. Segundo
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy; University of Porto; 4050-313 Porto Portugal
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Matos P, Figueirinha A, Ferreira I, Cruz MT, Batista MT. Acanthus mollis L. leaves as source of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant phytoconstituents. Nat Prod Res 2018; 33:1824-1827. [PMID: 29417845 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2018.1437438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This work expands the phytochemical composition knowledge of Acanthus mollis and evaluates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities which could be related with its traditional uses. Extracts from leaves, obtained by sequential extraction, were screened using TLC and HPLC-PDA. The ethanol extract was the most active on DPPH assay (IC50 = 20.50 μg/mL) and inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 macrophages (IC50 = 48.31 μg/mL). Significant amounts of cyclic hydroxamic and phenolic acids derivatives were detected. A lower antioxidant effect was verified for a fraction enriched with DIBOA derivatives (IC50 = 163.02 μg/mL), suggesting a higher contribution of phenolic compounds for this activity in ethanol extract. However, this fraction exhibited a higher inhibition of NO production (IC50 = 32.32 μg/mL), with absence of cytotoxicity. These results support the ethnomedical uses of this plant for diseases based on inflammatory processes. To our knowledge, it is the first report to the anti-inflammatory activity for DIBOA derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Matos
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal.,b LAQV, REQUIMTE , Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - Artur Figueirinha
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal.,b LAQV, REQUIMTE , Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - Isabel Ferreira
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal.,c Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- a Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal.,c Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Batista
- c Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal.,d Center for Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba , Coimbra , Portugal
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Ferreira I, Silva A, Martins JD, Neves BM, Cruz MT. Nature and kinetics of redox imbalance triggered by respiratory and skin chemical sensitizers on the human monocytic cell line THP-1. Redox Biol 2018; 16:75-86. [PMID: 29477863 PMCID: PMC5842329 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low molecular weight reactive chemicals causing skin and respiratory allergies are known to activate dendritic cells (DC), an event considered to be a key step in both pathologies. Although generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is considered a major danger signal responsible for DC maturation, the mechanisms leading to cellular redox imbalance remain poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to unveil the origin and kinetics of redox imbalance elicited by 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNFB) and trimellitic anhydride chloride (TMAC), two golden standards of skin and chemical respiratory allergy, respectively. To track this goal, we addressed the time course modifications of ROS production and cellular antioxidant defenses as well as the modulation of MAPKs signaling pathways and transcription of pathophysiological relevant genes in THP-1 cells. Our data shows that the thiol-reactive sensitizer DNFB directly reacts with cytoplasmic glutathione (GSH) causing its rapid and marked depletion which results in a general increase in ROS accumulation. In turn, TMAC, which preferentially reacts with amine groups, induces a delayed GSH depletion as a consequence of increased mitochondrial ROS production. These divergences in ROS production seem to be correlated with the different extension of intracellular signaling pathways activation and, by consequence, with distinct transcription kinetics of genes such as HMOX1, IL8, IL1B and CD86. Ultimately, our observations may help explain the distinct DC phenotype and T-cell polarizing profile triggered by skin and respiratory sensitizers. Distinctive ROS origin and kinetics elicited by skin and respiratory sensitizers. ROS production elicited by DNFB results primarily from direct GSH haptenation. Distinct expression of genes involved in DC maturation and T-cell polarizing capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Ferreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000- 548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Ana Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000- 548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Demétrio Martins
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000- 548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Miguel Neves
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000- 548 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000- 548 Coimbra, Portugal.
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