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Bruzzaniti S, Piemonte E, Bruzzese D, Lepore MT, Strollo R, Izzo L, Di Candia F, Franzese A, Bifulco M, Mozzillo E, Ludvigsson J, Matarese G, Galgani M. Progression of type 1 diabetes is associated with high levels of soluble PD-1 in islet autoantibody-positive children. Diabetologia 2024; 67:714-723. [PMID: 38214712 PMCID: PMC10904438 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-023-06075-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that is characterised by destruction of pancreatic beta cells by autoreactive T lymphocytes. Although islet autoantibodies (AAb) are an indicator of disease progression, specific immune biomarkers that can be used as target molecules to halt development of type 1 diabetes have not been discovered. Soluble immune checkpoint molecules (sICM) play a pivotal role in counteracting excessive lymphocyte responses, but their role in type 1 diabetes is unexplored. In this longitudinal study, we measured sICM levels in AAb-positive (AAb+) children to identify molecules related to type 1 diabetes progression. METHODS We measured the levels of 14 sICM in the sera of AAb+ children (n=57) compared to those with recent-onset type 1 diabetes (n=79) and healthy children (n=44), obtained from two cohorts. AAb+ children were followed up and divided based on their progression to type 1 diabetes (AAbP) or not (AAbNP) (if they lost islet autoimmunity and did not develop disease in subsequent years). sICM were also measured in the sample taken at the visit closest to disease onset in AAbP children. RESULTS We found that AAb+ children had a distinct sICM profile compared with healthy children and those with recent-onset type 1 diabetes. In addition, AAb+ children who progressed to type 1 diabetes (AAbP) had higher sICM concentrations than non-progressors (AAbNP). Further, sICM levels decreased in AAbP children close to disease onset. Application of Cox regression models highlighted that high concentrations of soluble programmed cell death protein 1 (sPD-1) are associated with type 1 diabetes progression (HR 1.71; 95% CI 1.16, 2.51; p=0.007). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION This study reveals an sICM profile that is dysregulated during the preclinical stage of type 1 diabetes, and identifies sPD-1 as a pathophysiologically-relevant molecule that is associated with disease progression, offering a potential target for early interventions in autoimmune diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bruzzaniti
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Piemonte
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Bruzzese
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Lepore
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Umane e Promozione della Qualità della Vita, Università Telematica San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Izzo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Candia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Adriana Franzese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Mozzillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Johnny Ludvigsson
- Crown Princess Victoria's Children's Hospital and Division of Pediatrics, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Giuseppe Matarese
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy.
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Pagano C, Ciaglia E, Coppola L, Lopardo V, Raimondo A, Giuseppe M, Lembo S, Laezza C, Bifulco M. Cannabidiol exerts multitarget immunomodulatory effects on PBMCs from individuals with psoriasis vulgaris. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1373435. [PMID: 38601151 PMCID: PMC11004238 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1373435] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The involvement of endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the inflammatory cascade, and the ability of phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids and their synthetic analogues to modulate it has become an interesting research area for new therapeutic approaches in inflammatory skin diseases. Cannabidiol (CBD) appears to be the most promising among phytocannabinoids, due to the lack of psychotropic effects and low toxicity profile. Its anti-inflammatory action has been highlighted in different preclinical models, ranging from experimental colitis to arthritis and neuroinflammation. Our aim was to evaluate CBD immune-modulatory effects in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of psoriasis individuals with particular attention to both innate and adaptative immune arms. Methods We performed in vitro immune functional experiments to analyze CBD action on various immune cells active in psoriatic lesions. Results The results showed that CBD produced a shift from Th1 to Th2 response, while boosting cytotoxic activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells. Furthermore, it also exerted a potent action on monocyte differentiation as, after CBD treatment, monocytes from psoriatic individuals were unable to migrate in response to inflammatory stimuli and to fully differentiate into mature dendritic cells. Finally, a M2 skewing of monocyte-derived macrophages by CBD also contributed to the fine tuning of the magnitude of immune responses. Conclusions These data uncover new potential immunomodulatory properties of this cannabinoid suggesting a possible therapeutic action in the treatment of multiple inflammatory skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Annunziata Raimondo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Monfrecola Giuseppe
- Section of Dermatology - Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Lembo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Pagano C, Coppola L, Navarra G, Avilia G, Savarese B, Torelli G, Bruzzaniti S, Piemonte E, Galgani M, Laezza C, Bifulco M. N6-isopentenyladenosine inhibits aerobic glycolysis in glioblastoma cells by targeting PKM2 expression and activity. FEBS Open Bio 2024. [PMID: 38514913 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13766] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a primary tumor in the central nervous system with poor prognosis. It exhibits elevated glucose uptake and lactate production. This metabolic state of aerobic glycolysis is known as the Warburg effect. N6-isopentenyladenosine (iPA), a natural cytokine modified with an isopentenyl moiety derived from the mevalonate pathway, has well-established anti-tumor activity. It inhibits cell proliferation in glioma cells, inducing cell death by apoptosis and/or necroptosis. In the present study, we found that iPA inhibits aerobic glycolysis in unmodified U87MG cells and in the same cell line engineered to over-express wild-type epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or EGFR variant III (vIII), as well as in a primary GBM4 patient-derived cell line. The detection of glycolysis showed that iPA treatment suppressed ATP and lactate production. We also evaluated the response of iPA treatment in normal human astrocyte primary cells, healthy counterpart cells of the brain. Aerobic glycolysis in treated normal human astrocyte cells did not show significant changes compared to GBM cells. To determine the mechanism of iPA action on aerobic glycolysis, we investigated the expression of certain enzymes involved in this metabolic pathway. We observed that iPA reduced the expression of pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), which plays a key role in the regulation of aerobic glycolysis, promoting tumor cell proliferation. The reduction of PKM2 expression is a result of the inhibition of the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit, beta/nuclear factor-kappa B pathway upon iPA treatment. In conclusion, these experimental results show that iPA may inhibit aerobic glycolysis of GBM in stabilized cell lines and primary GBM cells by targeting the expression and activity of PKM2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgio Avilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Beatrice Savarese
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Torelli
- Neurosurgery Unit A.O. San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d' Aragona - Salerno's School of Medicine Largo Città di Ippocrate, Salerno, Italy
| | - Sara Bruzzaniti
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Piemonte
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
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Di Donato M, Di Zazzo E, Salvati A, Sorrentino C, Giurato G, Fiore D, Proto MC, Rienzo M, Casamassimi A, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M, Castoria G, Weisz A, Nassa G, Abbondanza C. RIZ2 at the crossroad of the EGF/EGFR signaling in colorectal cancer. J Transl Med 2023; 21:736. [PMID: 37853459 PMCID: PMC10585774 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04621-6] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most deadly and fourth most diagnosed cancer worldwide. Despite the progress in early diagnosis and advanced therapeutic options, CRC shows a poor prognosis with a 5 year survival rate of ~ 45%. PRDM2/RIZ, a member of PR/SET domain family (PRDM), expresses two main molecular variants, the PR-plus isoform (RIZ1) and the PR-minus (RIZ2). The imbalance in their expression levels in favor of RIZ2 is observed in many cancer types. The full length RIZ1 has been extensively investigated in several cancers where it acts as a tumor suppressor, whereas few studies have explored the RIZ2 oncogenic properties. PRDM2 is often target of frameshift mutations and aberrant DNA methylation in CRC. However, little is known about its role in CRC. METHODS We combined in-silico investigation of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) CRC datasets, cellular and molecular assays, transcriptome sequencing and functional annotation analysis to assess the role of RIZ2 in human CRC. RESULTS Our in-silico analysis on TCGA datasets confirmed that PRDM2 gene is frequently mutated and transcriptionally deregulated in CRC and revealed that a RIZ2 increase is highly correlated with a significant RIZ1 downregulation. Then, we assayed several CRC cell lines by qRT-PCR analysis for the main PRDM2 transcripts and selected DLD1 cell line, which showed the lowest RIZ2 levels. Therefore, we overexpressed RIZ2 in these cells to mimic TCGA datasets analysis results and consequently to assess the PRDM2/RIZ2 role in CRC. Data from RNA-seq disclosed that RIZ2 overexpression induced profound changes in CRC cell transcriptome via EGF pathway deregulation, suggesting that RIZ2 is involved in the EGF autocrine regulation of DLD1 cell behavior. Noteworthy, the forced RIZ2 expression increased cell viability, growth, colony formation, migration and organoid formation. These effects could be mediated by the release of high EGF levels by RIZ2 overexpressing DLD1 cells. CONCLUSIONS Our findings add novel insights on the putative RIZ2 tumor-promoting functions in CRC, although additional efforts are warranted to define the underlying molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Di Donato
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Annamaria Salvati
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Carmela Sorrentino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
- CRGS-Genome Research Center for Health, University of Salerno Campus of Medicine, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | | | - Monica Rienzo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Amelia Casamassimi
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
| | | | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Castoria
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
- CRGS-Genome Research Center for Health, University of Salerno Campus of Medicine, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nassa
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
- CRGS-Genome Research Center for Health, University of Salerno Campus of Medicine, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Ciro Abbondanza
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
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Della Monica R, Buonaiuto M, Cuomo M, Pagano C, Trio F, Costabile D, de Riso G, Cicala FS, Raia M, Franca RA, Del Basso De Caro M, Sorrentino D, Navarra G, Coppola L, Tripodi L, Pastore L, Hench J, Frank S, Schonauer C, Catapano G, Bifulco M, Chiariotti L, Visconti R. Targeted inhibition of the methyltransferase SETD8 synergizes with the Wee1 inhibitor adavosertib in restraining glioblastoma growth. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:638. [PMID: 37758718 PMCID: PMC10533811 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite intense research efforts, glioblastoma remains an incurable brain tumor with a dismal median survival time of 15 months. Thus, identifying new therapeutic targets is an urgent need. Here, we show that the lysine methyltransferase SETD8 is overexpressed in 50% of high-grade gliomas. The small molecule SETD8 inhibitor UNC0379, as well as siRNA-mediated inhibition of SETD8, blocked glioblastoma cell proliferation, by inducing DNA damage and activating cell cycle checkpoints. Specifically, in p53-proficient glioblastoma cells, SETD8 inhibition and DNA damage induced p21 accumulation and G1/S arrest whereas, in p53-deficient glioblastoma cells, DNA damage induced by SETD8 inhibition resulted in G2/M arrest mediated by Chk1 activation. Checkpoint abrogation, by the Wee1 kinase inhibitor adavosertib, induced glioblastoma cell lines and primary cells, DNA-damaged by UNC0379, to progress to mitosis where they died by mitotic catastrophe. Finally, UNC0379 and adavosertib synergized in restraining glioblastoma growth in a murine xenograft model, providing a strong rationale to further explore this novel pharmacological approach for adjuvant glioblastoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Della Monica
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy.
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.
| | - Michela Buonaiuto
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariella Cuomo
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Federica Trio
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
| | - Davide Costabile
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
- SEMM-European School of Molecular Medicine, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Giulia de Riso
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Sveva Cicala
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Maddalena Raia
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Lorella Tripodi
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Lucio Pastore
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Juergen Hench
- Institute for Medical Genetics and Pathology, Basel University Hospitals, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Frank
- Institute for Medical Genetics and Pathology, Basel University Hospitals, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Chiariotti
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy.
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.
| | - Roberta Visconti
- CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies "Franco Salvatore", Napoli, Italy.
- Institute for the Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology "G. Salvatore", National Council of Research of Italy, Napoli, Italy.
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Proto MC, Fiore D, Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. Rimonabant and Cannabidiol Rewrite the Interactions between Breast Cancer Cells and Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13427. [PMID: 37686233 PMCID: PMC10487984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The spread of breast cancer to distant sites is the major cause of death in breast cancer patients. Increasing evidence supports the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in breast cancers, and its pathologic assessment has become a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. In the TME, a bidirectional interplay between tumor and stromal cells occurs, both at the primary and metastatic site. Hundreds of molecules, including cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, contribute to this fine interaction to promote tumor spreading. Here, we investigated the effects of Rimonabant and Cannabidiol, known for their antitumor activity, on reprogramming the breast TME. Both compounds directly affect the activity of several pathways involved in breast cancer progression. To mimic tumor-stroma interactions during breast-to-lung metastasis, we investigated the effect of the compounds on growth factor secretion from metastatic breast cancer cells and normal and activated lung fibroblasts. In this setting, we demonstrated the anti-metastatic potential of the two compounds, and the membrane array analyses highlighted their ability to alter the release of factors involved in the autocrine and paracrine regulation of tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, and immune reprogramming. The results enforce the antitumor potential of Rimonabant and Cannabidiol, providing a novel potential tool for breast cancer TME management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.)
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, NA, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.)
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Bifulco M. Nobel laureate Harald zur Hausen passed. He was the first to discover the HPV-cervical cancer link. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28982. [PMID: 37503667 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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Di Zazzo E, Rienzo M, Casamassimi A, De Rosa C, Medici N, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M, Abbondanza C. Exploring the putative role of PRDM1 and PRDM2 transcripts as mediators of T lymphocyte activation. J Transl Med 2023; 21:217. [PMID: 36964555 PMCID: PMC10039509 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04066-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T cell activation and programming from their naïve/resting state, characterized by widespread modifications in chromatin accessibility triggering extensive changes in transcriptional programs, is orchestrated by several cytokines and transcription regulators. PRDM1 and PRDM2 encode for proteins with PR/SET and zinc finger domains that control several biological processes, including cell differentiation, through epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Different transcripts leading to main protein isoforms with (PR +) or without (PR-) the PR/SET domain have been described. Although many studies have established the critical PRDM1 role in hematopoietic cell differentiation, maintenance and/or function, the single transcript contribution has not been investigated before. Otherwise, very few evidence is currently available on PRDM2. Here, we aimed to analyze the role of PRDM1 and PRDM2 different transcripts as mediators of T lymphocyte activation. METHODS We analyzed the transcription signature of the main variants from PRDM1 (BLIMP1a and BLIMP1b) and PRDM2 (RIZ1 and RIZ2) genes, in human T lymphocytes and Jurkat cells overexpressing PRDM2 cDNAs following activation through different signals. RESULTS T lymphocyte activation induced an early increase of RIZ2 and RIZ1 followed by BLIMP1b increase and finally by BLIMP1a increase. The "first" and the "second" signals shifted the balance towards the PR- forms for both genes. Interestingly, the PI3K signaling pathway modulated the RIZ1/RIZ2 ratio in favor of RIZ1 while the balance versus RIZ2 was promoted by MAPK pathway. Cytokines mediating different Jak/Stat signaling pathways (third signal) early modulated the expression of PRDM1 and PRDM2 and the relationship of their different transcripts confirming the early increase of the PR- transcripts. Different responses of T cell subpopulations were also observed. Jurkat cells showed that the acute transient RIZ2 increase promoted the balancing of PRDM1 forms towards BLIMP1b. The stable forced expression of RIZ1 or RIZ2 induced a significant variation in the expression of key transcription factors involved in T lymphocyte differentiation. The BLIMP1a/b balance shifted in favor of BLIMP1a in RIZ1-overexpressing cells and of BLIMP1b in RIZ2-overexpressing cells. CONCLUSIONS This study provides the first characterization of PRDM2 in T-lymphocyte activation/differentiation and novel insights on PRDM1 and PRDM2 transcription regulation during initial activation phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Monica Rienzo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Amelia Casamassimi
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina De Rosa
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Medici
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084, Salerno, Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Abbondanza
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy.
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Bifulco M, Di Zazzo E, Napolitano F, Malfitano AM, Portella G. History of how viruses can fight cancer: From the miraculous healings to the approval of oncolytic viruses. Biochimie 2023; 206:89-92. [PMID: 36273765 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.10.008] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Since the nineteenth century, several reports in the historical medical literature emphasized that, occasionally, cancer patients showed a clinical remission, called "Saint Peregrine tumor" as a result of natural infections. Moreover, additional evidence indicated that viruses show a tropism toward cancer cells, leading to the discovery of oncolytic activity of several viruses, called oncolytic viruses (OVs). With the technological and scientific advancements, the advent of rodent models, the establishment of in vitro cell lines, the introduction of methods for virus propagation, several attempts through the 1950s and 1970s have been made to increase OVs specificity, efficacy and safety; however, inconclusive/negative results have been reached and many researchers abandoned the field. Only in the later 1990s, the genetic engineering and the recombinant DNA techniques that allowed the generation of potent, specific and safe OVs and a better understanding of cancer cells renewed the interest in virotherapy. Currently, virotherapy represents a cancer therapeutic strategy based on the use of OVs that selectively infect and lyse cancer cells, without harming normal cells. Over the past years, several "natural" and "genetic engineered" viruses, have been investigated in clinical studies and some of them revealed encouraging results. Recently, the clinical use of OVs has also been supported by the immune stimulatory property of OVs against tumor cells. Here, we analyze the early oncolytic virotherapy before genetic engineering to highlight the relevant progresses reached, and the mechanism to stimulate host immune response, a significant challenge in current virotherapy field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Health Science "V. Tiberio", 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Fabiana Napolitano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Malfitano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Portella
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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10
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Pisanti S, Mencherini T, Esposito T, D'Amato V, Re T, Bifulco M, Aquino RP. The medieval skincare routine according to the formulations of Madgistra Trotula and the Medical School of Salerno and its reflection on cosmetology of the third millennium. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023; 22:542-554. [PMID: 35822229 PMCID: PMC10087853 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.15234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Officinal plants, minerals, animal derivatives, and miscellaneous have always been used to treat and improve appearance despite the different aesthetic canons of a specific historical and cultural context. OBJECTIVE The aim of this work was to make a critical comparison between medieval and modern dermocosmetics analyzing the works of Trotula de Ruggiero, a female doctor of the 11th century teaching and working inside the illustrious "Medical School of Salerno," who devoted particular attention to the promotion of female care, beauty, and well-being. METHODS We applied the historical-critical method analyzing the Latin text and the nglish translation of the standardized corpus of the main Trotula medieval manuscript De Ornatu Mulierum with a multidisciplinary scientific approach ranging from botany to pharmaceutical chemistry and technology, pharmacology and pathology. RESULTS We identified the medicinal plants, derivatives of animal origin and minerals used in the recipes of Trotula, highlighting their biological properties in the light of current scientific knowledge. A critical comparison between medieval and modern dermocosmetics is reported also taking into consideration the chemical, pharmaceutical, and technological literature. CONCLUSION Beyond the obvious changes in the paradigms of cosmetology and the different beauty canons of Middle Age with respect to modern times, our results emphasize the attention of Trotula to female care, beauty and well-being as well as the extraordinary combination of tradition and modernity in her work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,UNESCO Chair Salerno, Plantae Medicinales Mediterraneae, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Teresa Mencherini
- UNESCO Chair Salerno, Plantae Medicinales Mediterraneae, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Tiziana Esposito
- UNESCO Chair Salerno, Plantae Medicinales Mediterraneae, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Valeria D'Amato
- UNESCO Chair Salerno, Plantae Medicinales Mediterraneae, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Tania Re
- UNESCO Chair Salerno, Plantae Medicinales Mediterraneae, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy.,UNESCO Chair "Health Anthropology, Biosphere and Healing systems" University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rita P Aquino
- UNESCO Chair Salerno, Plantae Medicinales Mediterraneae, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
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11
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Pagano C, Coppola L, Navarra G, Avilia G, Bruzzaniti S, Piemonte E, Galgani M, Della Monica R, Chiariotti L, Cuomo M, Buonaiuto M, Torelli G, Caiazzo P, Laezza C, Bifulco M. N6-Isopentenyladenosine Impairs Mitochondrial Metabolism through Inhibition of EGFR Translocation on Mitochondria in Glioblastoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246044. [PMID: 36551529 PMCID: PMC9776489 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246044] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive malignant brain tumor and is poorly susceptible to cytotoxic therapies. Amplification of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and deletion of exons 2 to 7, which generates EGFR variant III (vIII), are the most common molecular alterations of GBMs that contribute to the aggressiveness of the disease. Recently, it has been shown that EGFR/EGFRvIII-targeted inhibitors enhance mitochondrial translocation by causing mitochondrial accumulation of these receptors, promoting the tumor drug resistance; moreover, they negatively modulate intrinsic mitochondria-mediated apoptosis by sequestering PUMA, leading to impaired apoptotic response in GBM cells. N6-isopentenyladenosine (i6A or iPA), a cytokinin consisting of an adenosine linked to an isopentenyl group deriving from the mevalonate pathway, has antiproliferative effects on numerous tumor cells, including GBM cells, by inducing cell death in vitro and in vivo. Here, we observed that iPA inhibits the mitochondrial respiration in GBM cells by preventing the translocation of EGFR/EGFRvIII to the mitochondria and allowing PUMA to interact with them by promoting changes in mitochondrial activity, thus playing a critical role in cell death. Our findings clearly demonstrate that iPA interferes with mitochondrial bioenergetic capacity, providing a rationale for an effective strategy for treating GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgio Avilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Bruzzaniti
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Piemonte
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Della Monica
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE—Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Chiariotti
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE—Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariella Cuomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE—Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Buonaiuto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE—Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Torelli
- Neurosurgery Unit A.O. San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’ Aragona, Salerno’s School of Medicine Largo Città di Ippocrate, 84131 Salerno, Italy
- Osservatorio Oncologico, 84091 Battipaglia, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80125 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: or (C.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: or (C.L.); (M.B.)
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12
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Pagano C, di Zazzo E, Avilia G, Savarese B, Navarra G, Proto MC, Fiore D, Rienzo M, Gazzerro P, Laezza C, Bifulco M. Advances in “adiponcosis”: insights in the inner mechanisms at the base of adipose and tumour tissues interplay. Int J Cancer 2022; 152:2464-2473. [PMID: 36366852 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34355] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The epidemic spread of obesity is nowadays recognized as a global health and economic burden, arising great interest in the scientific community. The rate of adult obesity steadily increases concomitantly with the cancer incidence. As has been comprehensively reported, obesity is included among the multiple cancer risk factors and can progressively cause and/or exacerbate certain cancer types, as colorectal and breast cancers. The term adiponcosis was forged precisely to emphasize the interconnection between obesity and cancer onset and progression. The underlying mechanisms of adiponcosis have not been fully elucidated yet, may vary on cancer type, and depend on body fat distribution. It has been proposed that insulin resistance and related chronic hyperinsulinemia, increased insulin-like growth factors production, chronic inflammation or increased bioavailability of steroid hormones could be responsible of cancer hallmarks. Additionally, it has been suggested that adipose tissue-derived hormones, cytokines and adipokines, such as leptin, adiponectin and inflammatory markers, may reflect mechanisms linked to tumorigenesis. This review summarizes the current evidence on pathways, hormones, cytokines and low-chronic inflammation subtending adiponconsis, focusing on breast and colorectal cancers. In addition, we analyzed the lifestyle interventions that could attenuate the driving forces of obesity-related cancer incidence and progression. Moreover, current targets and drugs, their pros and cons, as well as new mechanisms and targets with promising therapeutic potential in cancer are discussed. Depicting this complex interconnection will provide insights for establishing new therapeutic approaches to halt the obesity impacts and thwart cancer onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University of Naples "Federico II," Naples Italy
| | - Erika di Zazzo
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Scienze della Salute "V. Tiberio", Università degli Studi del Molise Campobasso Italy
| | - Giorgio Avilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University of Naples "Federico II," Naples Italy
| | - Beatrice Savarese
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University of Naples "Federico II," Naples Italy
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University of Naples "Federico II," Naples Italy
| | | | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy University of Salerno Fisciano SA Italy
| | - Monica Rienzo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" Caserta Italy
| | | | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS) , National Research Council (CNR) Naples Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University of Naples "Federico II," Naples Italy
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13
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Bruzzaniti S, Piemonte E, Mozzillo E, Bruzzese D, Lepore MT, Carbone F, de Candia P, Strollo R, Porcellini A, Marigliano M, Maffeis C, Bifulco M, Ludvigsson J, Franzese A, Matarese G, Galgani M. High levels of blood circulating immune checkpoint molecules in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes are associated with the risk of developing an additional autoimmune disease. Diabetologia 2022; 65:1390-1397. [PMID: 35610521 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-022-05724-3] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS We assessed the levels of blood circulating immune checkpoint molecules (ICMs) at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, and determined their association with the risk of developing an additional autoimmune disorder over time. METHODS Children with new-onset type 1 diabetes (n = 143), without biological and/or clinical signs of additional autoimmune disorders, and healthy children (n = 75) were enrolled, and blood circulating levels of 14 ICMs were measured. The children with type 1 diabetes were divided into two groups on the basis of the development of an additional autoimmune disease in the 5 years after diabetes onset. Differences in soluble ICM levels between the groups were assessed, and a Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate their association with the risk of development of an additional autoimmune disease over time. To validate the data, circulating ICMs were measured in an independent cohort of 60 children with new-onset type 1 diabetes stratified into two groups. RESULTS We found that the levels of circulating ICMs were significantly higher in children with new-onset diabetes compared with healthy children. Further, we observed that children with type 1 diabetes who developed a second autoimmune disease over time (T1D-AAD+ children) had higher levels of soluble ICMs than children with type 1 diabetes who did not (T1D-AAD- children). Cox regression models revealed that high circulating levels of CD137/4-1BB and PD-1 molecules at diabetes diagnosis were associated with the risk of developing an additional autoimmune disease in both type 1 diabetes cohorts. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Our findings suggest that soluble CD137/4-1BB and PD-1 molecules may be used as prognostic biomarkers in children with type 1 diabetes, and may pave the way for novel immunological screening at diabetes onset, allowing early identification of children at higher risk of developing other autoimmune conditions over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bruzzaniti
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Piemonte
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Mozzillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Bruzzese
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Lepore
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Fortunata Carbone
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
- Unità di Neuroimmunologia, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola de Candia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie per l'Uomo e l'Ambiente, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Porcellini
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Marigliano
- Section of Pediatric Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Maffeis
- Section of Pediatric Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Johnny Ludvigsson
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, and Crown Princess Victoria Children's Hospital, Region Östergötland, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Adriana Franzese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Matarese
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale 'G. Salvatore', Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', Naples, Italy.
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14
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Pisanti S, Rimondi E, Pozza E, Melloni E, Zauli E, Bifulco M, Martinelli R, Marcuzzi A. Prenylation Defects and Oxidative Stress Trigger the Main Consequences of Neuroinflammation Linked to Mevalonate Pathway Deregulation. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19159061. [PMID: 35897423 PMCID: PMC9332440 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159061] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
The cholesterol biosynthesis represents a crucial metabolic pathway for cellular homeostasis. The end products of this pathway are sterols, such as cholesterol, which are essential components of cell membranes, precursors of steroid hormones, bile acids, and other molecules such as ubiquinone. Furthermore, some intermediates of this metabolic system perform biological activity in specific cellular compartments, such as isoprenoid molecules that can modulate different signal proteins through the prenylation process. The defects of prenylation represent one of the main causes that promote the activation of inflammation. In particular, this mechanism, in association with oxidative stress, induces a dysfunction of the mitochondrial activity. The purpose of this review is to describe the pleiotropic role of prenylation in neuroinflammation and to highlight the consequence of the defects of prenylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry ′Scuola Medica Salernitana′, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (S.P.); (R.M.)
| | - Erika Rimondi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.P.); (E.Z.); (A.M.)
- LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.R.); (E.M.)
| | - Elena Pozza
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.P.); (E.Z.); (A.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Melloni
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.P.); (E.Z.); (A.M.)
- LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.R.); (E.M.)
| | - Enrico Zauli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.P.); (E.Z.); (A.M.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Rosanna Martinelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry ′Scuola Medica Salernitana′, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (S.P.); (R.M.)
| | - Annalisa Marcuzzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.P.); (E.Z.); (A.M.)
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Proto MC, Fiore D, Piscopo C, Laezza C, Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. Modified Adenosines Sensitize Glioblastoma Cells to Temozolomide by Affecting DNA Methyltransferases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:815646. [PMID: 35559231 PMCID: PMC9086827 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.815646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and lethal primary malignant brain tumor, and due to its unique features, its management is certainly one of the most challenging ones among all cancers. N6-isopentenyladenosine (IPA) and its analog N6-benzyladenosine (N6-BA) are modified nucleosides endowed with potent antitumor activity on different types of human cancers, including GBM. Corroborating our previous finding, we demonstrated that IPA and N6-BA affect GBM cell line proliferation by modulating the expression of the F-box WD repeat domain-containing-7 (FBXW7), a tumor suppressor with a crucial role in the turnover of many proteins, such as SREBPs and Mcl1, involved in malignant progression and chemoresistance. Luciferase assay revealed that IPA-mediated upregulation of FBXW7 translates in transcriptional inactivation of its oncogenic substrates (Myc, NFkB, or HIF-1α). Moreover, downregulating MGMT expression, IPA strongly enhances the killing effect of temozolomide (TMZ), producing a favorable sensitizing effect starting from a concentration range much lower than TMZ EC50. Through DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity assay, analysis of the global DNA methylation, and the histone modification profiles, we demonstrated that the modified adenosines behave similar to 5-AZA-dC, known DNMT inhibitor. Overall, our results provide new perspectives for the first time, suggesting the modified adenosines as epigenetic tools able to improve chemo- and radiotherapy efficacy in glioblastoma and potentially other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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Bifulco M, Di Zazzo E, Pisanti S, Martini M, Orsini D. The nineteenth-century experience of the kingdom of the two Sicilies on mandatory vaccination: An Italian phenomenon? Vaccine 2022; 40:3452-3454. [PMID: 35534315 PMCID: PMC9073592 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.04.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The current health emergency caused by COVID-19 disease shows several similarities with well-known epidemics of the past. The knowledge of their management and overcoming could give us useful tools to face the present COVID-19 pandemic. The Bourbon king Ferdinand I planned the first free large-scale mass vaccination programme conducted in Italy and one of the first in Europe to counteract smallpox. The vaccination campaign was characterized by many difficulties and the efforts made by the Southern Kingdoms governors were enormous. For example, the “ante litteram communication campaign”, aimed at convincing the so-called “hesitant” people and at confuting the arguments of vaccination opponents, was impressive. In 1821, the compulsory vaccination significantly reduced smallpox infections and death rates. Subsequently, several experiences followed this initiative, not without doubts and debates. Smallpox was finally eradicated worldwide only on the 9th December 1979. Despite to other countries, the “mandatory vaccination” is a topic often debated by Italian scientific and social communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy; UOC Laboratorio Analisi P.O. "A. Cardarelli"Campobasso, Italy
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mariano Martini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Davide Orsini
- University Museum System of Siena (SIMUS), History of Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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17
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Pagano C, Navarra G, Coppola L, Avilia G, Bifulco M, Laezza C. Cannabinoids: Therapeutic Use in Clinical Practice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063344. [PMID: 35328765 PMCID: PMC8952215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical case reports suggest that cannabinoids extracted from Cannabis sativa have therapeutic effects; however, the therapeutic employment is limited due to the psychotropic effect of its major component, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The new scientific discoveries related to the endocannabinoid system, including new receptors, ligands, and mediators, allowed the development of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of several pathological disorders minimizing the undesirable psychotropic effects of some constituents of this plant. Today, FDA-approved drugs, such as nabiximols (a mixture of THC and non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD)), are employed in alleviating pain and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Dronabinol and nabilone are used for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in cancer patients. Dronabinol was approved for the treatment of anorexia in patients with AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). In this review, we highlighted the potential therapeutic efficacy of natural and synthetic cannabinoids and their clinical relevance in cancer, neurodegenerative and dermatological diseases, and viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Giorgio Avilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy or (C.P.); (G.N.); (L.C.); (G.A.)
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (C.L.)
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (C.L.)
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Abate M, Pagano C, Masullo M, Citro M, Pisanti S, Piacente S, Bifulco M. Mangostanin, a Xanthone Derived from Garcinia mangostana Fruit, Exerts Protective and Reparative Effects on Oxidative Damage in Human Keratinocytes. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15010084. [PMID: 35056141 PMCID: PMC8780152 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The fruit of Garcinia mangostana (mangosteen) is known in ancient traditional Asian medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anticancer activities. These effects are mainly due to the action of polyphenols known as xanthones, which are contained in the pericarp of the fruit. In recent years, there has been a growing interest from pharmaceutical companies in formulating new topicals based on mangosteen full extracts to prevent skin aging. However, the molecules responsible for these effects and the mechanisms involved have not been investigated so far. Here, the arils and shells of Garcinia mangostana were extracted with chloroform and methanol, and the extracts were further purified to yield 12 xanthone derivatives. Their effects were evaluated using in vitro cultures of human epidermal keratinocytes. After confirming the absence of cytotoxicity, we evaluated the antioxidant potential of these compounds, identifying mangostanin as capable of both protecting and restoring oxidative damage induced by H2O2. We showed how mangostanin, by reducing the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), prevents the activation of AKT (protein kinase B), ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase), p53, and other cellular pathways underlying cell damage and apoptosis activation. In conclusion, our study is the first to demonstrate that mangostanin is effective in protecting the skin from the action of free radicals, thus preventing skin aging, confirming a potential toward its development in the nutraceutical and cosmeceutical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Abate
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (M.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Milena Masullo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (M.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Marianna Citro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (M.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (M.A.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (M.B.); Tel.: +39-081-7462200 (M.B.); Fax: +39-081-7460000 (M.B.)
| | - Sonia Piacente
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (M.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (M.B.); Tel.: +39-081-7462200 (M.B.); Fax: +39-081-7460000 (M.B.)
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19
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Rienzo M, Di Zazzo E, Casamassimi A, Gazzerro P, Perini G, Bifulco M, Abbondanza C. PRDM12 in Health and Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222112030. [PMID: 34769459 PMCID: PMC8585061 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222112030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PRDM12 is a member of the PRDI-BF1 (positive regulatory domain I-binding factor 1) homologous domain (PRDM)-containing protein family, a subfamily of Kruppel-like zinc finger proteins, controlling key processes in the development of cancer. PRDM12 is expressed in a spatio-temporal manner in neuronal systems where it exerts multiple functions. PRDM12 is essential for the neurogenesis initiation and activation of a cascade of downstream pro-neuronal transcription factors in the nociceptive lineage. PRDM12 inactivation, indeed, results in a complete absence of the nociceptive lineage, which is essential for pain perception. Additionally, PRDM12 contributes to the early establishment of anorexigenic neuron identity and the maintenance of high expression levels of pro-opiomelanocortin, which impacts on the program bodyweight homeostasis. PRDMs are commonly involved in cancer, where they act as oncogenes/tumor suppressors in a “Yin and Yang” manner. PRDM12 is not usually expressed in adult normal tissues but its expression is re-activated in several cancer types. However, little information is currently available on PRDM12 expression in cancers and its mechanism of action has not been thoroughly described. In this review, we summarize the recent findings regarding PRDM12 by focusing on four main biological processes: neurogenesis, pain perception, oncogenesis and cell metabolism. Moreover, we wish to highlight the importance of future studies focusing on the PRDM12 signaling pathway(s) and its role in cancer onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Rienzo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Amelia Casamassimi
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Perini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Ciro Abbondanza
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy;
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20
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Pagano C, Navarra G, Pastorino O, Avilia G, Coppola L, Della Monica R, Chiariotti L, Florio T, Corsaro A, Torelli G, Caiazzo P, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M, Laezza C. N6-Isopentenyladenosine Hinders the Vasculogenic Mimicry in Human Glioblastoma Cells through Src-120 Catenin Pathway Modulation and RhoA Activity Inhibition. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910530. [PMID: 34638872 PMCID: PMC8508824 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is a functional microcirculation pattern formed by aggressive tumor cells. Thus far, no effective drugs have been developed to target VM. Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant form of brain cancer and is a highly vascularized tumor. Vasculogenic mimicry represents a means whereby GBM can escape anti-angiogenic therapies. METHODS Here, using an in vitro tube formation assay on Matrigel, we evaluated the ability of N6-isopentenyladenosine (iPA) to interfere with vasculogenic mimicry (VM). RhoA activity was assessed using a pull-down assay, while the modulation of the adherens junctions proteins was analyzed by Western blot analysis. RESULTS We found that iPA at sublethal doses inhibited the formation of capillary-like structures suppressing cell migration and invasion of U87MG, U343MG, and U251MG cells, of patient-derived human GBM cells and GBM stem cells. iPA reduces the vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) expression levels in a dose-dependent manner, impairs the vasculogenic mimicry network by modulation of the Src/p120-catenin pathway and inhibition of RhoA-GTPase activity. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results revealed iPA as a promising novel anti-VM drug in GBM clinical therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Olga Pastorino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Giorgio Avilia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Rosa Della Monica
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
- CEINGE—Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Chiariotti
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
- CEINGE—Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Tullio Florio
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 2, 16136 Genova, Italy; (T.F.); (A.C.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Corsaro
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 2, 16136 Genova, Italy; (T.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Giovanni Torelli
- Neurosurgery Unit A.O. San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona—Salerno’s School of Medicine Largo Città di Ippocrate, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
- Neurosurgery, Unit A.O. “A.Cardarelli”, 80145 Naples, Italy;
| | | | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, 84084 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80145 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.); (G.A.); (L.C.); (R.D.M.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (C.L.)
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80145 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.B.); or (C.L.)
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Marotta V, Bifulco M, Vitale M. Significance of RAS Mutations in Thyroid Benign Nodules and Non-Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153785. [PMID: 34359686 PMCID: PMC8345070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [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: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Only about 4% of thyroid nodules are carcinomas and require surgery. Fine-needle aspiration cytology is the most accurate tool to distinguish benign from malignant thyroid nodules, however it yields an indeterminate result in about 30% of the cases, posing diagnostic and prognostic dilemmas. Testing for genetic mutations, including those of RAS, has been proposed for indeterminate cytology to solve these dilemmas and support the clinician decision making process. A passionate debate is ongoing on the biological and clinical significance of RAS mutations, calling into question the utility of RAS as tumor marker. Recently, the description of a new entity of non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm and the accurate review of more recent analyses demonstrate that RAS mutations have limited utility in both the diagnostic and prognostic setting of thyroid nodular disease. Abstract Thyroid nodules are detected in up to 60% of people by ultrasound examination. Most of them are benign nodules requiring only follow up, while about 4% are carcinomas and require surgery. Malignant nodules can be diagnosed by the fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), which however yields an indeterminate result in about 30% of the cases. Testing for RAS mutations has been proposed to refine indeterminate cytology. However, the new entity of non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm, considered as having a benign evolution and frequently carrying RAS mutations, is expected to lower the specificity of this mutation. The aggressive behavior of thyroid cancer with RAS mutations, initially reported, has been overturned by the recent finding of the cooperative role of TERT mutations. Although some animal models support the carcinogenic role of RAS mutations in the thyroid, evidence that adenomas harboring these mutations evolve in carcinomas is lacking. Their poor specificity and sensitivity make the clinical impact of RAS mutations on the management of thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology unsatisfactory. Evidence suggests that RAS mutation-positive benign nodules demand a conservative treatment. To have a clinical impact, RAS mutations in thyroid malignancies need not to be considered alone but rather together with other genetic abnormalities in a more general context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Marotta
- UOC Clinica Endocrinologica e Diabetologica, AOU S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D’Aragona, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy;
| | - Mario Vitale
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-089-672-753
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22
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Bifulco M, Pisanti S, Fusco I. Lessons from the 1656 Neapolitan Plague: Something to learn for the current coronavirus Pandemic? Vaccine 2021; 39:3641-3643. [PMID: 34052067 PMCID: PMC8139237 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.05.046] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In the spring of 1656, an epidemic of bubonic plague suddenly fell on Naples, the capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. The epidemic had put a strain on the government authorities, forcing them to take sometimes drastic measures but, in most cases, scarcely decisive. The current health emergency caused by Covid-19 disease has many similarities with the epidemics of the past. Here we report the parallelism among plague and Covid-19 in several respects. Taking as a paradigm the plague epidemic of Naples of 1656, we can easily understand how history, showing us how past epidemics were managed and overcome, even with the intrinsic differences due to the limits of time and scientific progress, can still give us a useful lesson to face the present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Idamaria Fusco
- CNR-ISEM (Institute of History of Mediterranean Europe), Cagliari-Rome-Milan, Italy
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23
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Perna F, Bruzzaniti S, Piemonte E, Maddaloni V, Atripaldi L, Sale S, Sanduzzi A, Nicastro C, Pepe N, Bifulco M, Matarese G, Galgani M, Atripaldi L. Serum levels of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen associate with inflammatory status and disease severity in COVID-19 patients. Clin Immunol 2021; 226:108720. [PMID: 33819577 PMCID: PMC8017913 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Perna
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy,Corresponding author
| | - Sara Bruzzaniti
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy,Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Erica Piemonte
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Maddaloni
- UOC Biochimica Clinica, AORN Ospedale dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
| | - Lidia Atripaldi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi della Campania “Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Sale
- UOC Biochimica Clinica, AORN Ospedale dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Sanduzzi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine Nicastro
- UOC Biochimica Clinica, AORN Ospedale dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Pepe
- UOC Biochimica Clinica, AORN Ospedale dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Matarese
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Naples, Italy,Corresponding author at: Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Italy
| | - Luigi Atripaldi
- UOC Biochimica Clinica, AORN Ospedale dei Colli, Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
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Bifulco M, Fiore D, Piscopo C, Gazzerro P, Proto MC. Commentary: Use of Cannabinoids to Treat Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Cytokine Storm Associated With Coronavirus Disease-2019. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:631646. [PMID: 33912048 PMCID: PMC8072334 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.631646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
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25
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Proto MC, Fiore D, Piscopo C, Pagano C, Galgani M, Bruzzaniti S, Laezza C, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M. Lipid homeostasis and mevalonate pathway in COVID-19: Basic concepts and potential therapeutic targets. Prog Lipid Res 2021; 82:101099. [PMID: 33915202 PMCID: PMC8074527 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2021.101099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [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: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite encouraging progresses achieved in the management of viral diseases, efficient strategies to counteract infections are still required. The current global challenge highlighted the need to develop a rapid and cost-effective strategy to counteract the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Lipid metabolism plays a crucial role in viral infections. Viruses can use the host lipid machinery to support their life cycle and to impair the host immune response. The altered expression of mevalonate pathway-related genes, induced by several viruses, assures survival and spread in host tissue. In some infections, statins, HMG-CoA-reductase inhibitors, reduce cholesterol in the plasma membrane of permissive cells resulting in lower viral titers and failure to internalize the virus. Statins can also counteract viral infections through their immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effects. Beyond statins, interfering with the mevalonate pathway could have an adjuvant effect in therapies aimed at mitigating endothelial dysfunction and deregulated inflammation in viral infection. In this review we depicted the historical and current evidence highlighting how lipid homeostasis and mevalonate pathway targeting represents a valid approach to rapidly neutralize viruses, focusing our attention to their potential use as effective targets to hinder SARS-CoV-2 morbidity and mortality. Pros and cons of statins and Mevalonate-pathway inhibitors have been also dissected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy; Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Bruzzaniti
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
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26
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Bifulco M, Ciccarelli M, Bruzzese D, Dipasquale A, Lania AG, Mazziotti G, Gazzerro P. The benefit of statins in SARS-CoV-2 patients: further metabolic and prospective clinical studies are needed. Endocrine 2021; 71:270-272. [PMID: 33219496 PMCID: PMC7678774 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02550-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Michele Ciccarelli
- Pneumology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCS, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Bruzzese
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Dipasquale
- Pneumology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center IRCCS, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea G Lania
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20090, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Gherardo Mazziotti
- Endocrinology, Diabetology and Medical Andrology Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20090, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084, Fisciano (SA), Italy.
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Galgani M, Bruzzaniti S, La Rocca C, Micillo T, de Candia P, Bifulco M, Matarese G. Immunometabolism of regulatory T cells in cancer. Mol Aspects Med 2020; 77:100936. [PMID: 33250195 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2020.100936] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells are known to orchestrate the regulatory mechanisms aimed at suppressing pathological auto-reactive immune responses and are thus key in ensuring the maintenance of immune homeostasis. On the other hand, the presence of Treg cells with enhanced suppressive capability in a plethora of human cancers represents a major obstacle to an effective anti-cancer immune response. A relevant research effort has thus been dedicated to comprehend Treg cell biology, leading to a continuously refining characterization of their phenotype and function and unveiling the central role of metabolism in ensuring Treg cell fitness in cancer. Here we focus on how the peculiar biochemical characteristics of the tumor microenvironment actually support Treg cell metabolic activation and favor their selective survival and proliferation. Moreover, we examine the key metabolic pathways that may become useful targets of novel treatments directed at hampering tumor resident Treg cell proficiency, thus representing the next research frontier in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Galgani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli "Federico II", 80131, Napoli, Italy; Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (IEOS-CNR), 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sara Bruzzaniti
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (IEOS-CNR), 80131, Napoli, Italy; Dipartimento di Biologia, Università Degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudia La Rocca
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (IEOS-CNR), 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Micillo
- Unità di Neuroimmunologia, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, 00179, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli "Federico II", 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Matarese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli "Federico II", 80131, Napoli, Italy; Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (IEOS-CNR), 80131, Napoli, Italy.
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Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. Statin therapy in COVID-19 infection: much more than a single pathway. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Pharmacother 2020; 6:410-411. [PMID: 32529218 PMCID: PMC7314101 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvaa055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples 'Federico II', 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy
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Bruzzaniti S, Cirillo E, Prencipe R, Giardino G, Lepore MT, Garziano F, Perna F, Procaccini C, Mascolo L, Pagano C, Fattorusso V, Mozzillo E, Bifulco M, Matarese G, Franzese A, Pignata C, Galgani M. CD4 + T Cell Defects in a Mulibrey Patient With Specific TRIM37 Mutations. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1742. [PMID: 33042106 PMCID: PMC7530177 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mulibrey (muscle-liver-brain-eye) syndrome (MUL) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the TRIpartite motif (TRIM)37 gene, encoding for TRIM37 a member of the TRIM E3 ubiquitin ligase protein family. MUL patients are characterized by growth retardation, dysmorphic features, and a wide range of abnormalities affecting different organs. However, T-cell abnormalities have not been observed in MUL subjects, to date. Here we described the immunological features of a MUL child carrying recently identified TRIM37 mutations, a 17q22 deletion of maternal origin combined with a TRIM37 variant of paternal origin. Here we found quantitative and functional defects in CD4+ T cells from this MUL case. Low levels of TRIM37 protein were specifically detected in CD4+ T cells of MUL patient and associated with their altered proliferation and cytokine production. Of note, both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes of MUL child displayed an effector memory phenotype compared with healthy children. This clinical case research highlighted the possible role of TRIM37 in the control of immune cell number and function, especially in CD4+ T cells. Finally, this study may contribute to the novel mechanistic studies aim of identifying, in depth, the role of the TRIM37 protein in the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bruzzaniti
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Emilia Cirillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Prencipe
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Giardino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Lepore
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Perna
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Procaccini
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy.,Unità di Neuroimmunologia, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Mascolo
- Divisione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Scienze Riproduttive ed Odontostomatologiche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Fattorusso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Mozzillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Matarese
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Adriana Franzese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Pignata
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Laboratorio di Immunologia, Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. Statins in coronavirus outbreak: It's time for experimental and clinical studies. Pharmacol Res 2020; 156:104803. [PMID: 32289478 PMCID: PMC7151298 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, SA, Italy
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Casamassimi A, Rienzo M, Di Zazzo E, Sorrentino A, Fiore D, Proto MC, Moncharmont B, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M, Abbondanza C. Multifaceted Role of PRDM Proteins in Human Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072648. [PMID: 32290321 PMCID: PMC7177584 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The PR/SET domain family (PRDM) comprise a family of genes whose protein products share a conserved N-terminal PR [PRDI-BF1 (positive regulatory domain I-binding factor 1) and RIZ1 (retinoblastoma protein-interacting zinc finger gene 1)] homologous domain structurally and functionally similar to the catalytic SET [Su(var)3-9, enhancer-of-zeste and trithorax] domain of histone methyltransferases (HMTs). These genes are involved in epigenetic regulation of gene expression through their intrinsic HMTase activity or via interactions with other chromatin modifying enzymes. In this way they control a broad spectrum of biological processes, including proliferation and differentiation control, cell cycle progression, and maintenance of immune cell homeostasis. In cancer, tumor-specific dysfunctions of PRDM genes alter their expression by genetic and/or epigenetic modifications. A common characteristic of most PRDM genes is to encode for two main molecular variants with or without the PR domain. They are generated by either alternative splicing or alternative use of different promoters and play opposite roles, particularly in cancer where their imbalance can be often observed. In this scenario, PRDM proteins are involved in cancer onset, invasion, and metastasis and their altered expression is related to poor prognosis and clinical outcome. These functions strongly suggest their potential use in cancer management as diagnostic or prognostic tools and as new targets of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Casamassimi
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (E.D.Z.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (C.A.); Tel.: +39-081-566-7579 (A.C.); +39-081-566-7568 (C.A.)
| | - Monica Rienzo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (E.D.Z.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Anna Sorrentino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (E.D.Z.); (A.S.)
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (D.F.); (M.C.P.); (P.G.)
| | - Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (D.F.); (M.C.P.); (P.G.)
| | - Bruno Moncharmont
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (D.F.); (M.C.P.); (P.G.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Ciro Abbondanza
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (E.D.Z.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (C.A.); Tel.: +39-081-566-7579 (A.C.); +39-081-566-7568 (C.A.)
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Criscuolo D, Avolio R, Calice G, Laezza C, Paladino S, Navarra G, Maddalena F, Crispo F, Pagano C, Bifulco M, Landriscina M, Matassa DS, Esposito F. Cholesterol Homeostasis Modulates Platinum Sensitivity in Human Ovarian Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040828. [PMID: 32235572 PMCID: PMC7226826 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [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: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite initial chemotherapy response, ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecologic cancer, due to frequent relapse and onset of drug resistance. To date, there is no affordable diagnostic/prognostic biomarker for early detection of the disease. However, it has been recently shown that high grade serous ovarian cancers show peculiar oxidative metabolism, which is in turn responsible for inflammatory response and drug resistance. The molecular chaperone TRAP1 plays pivotal roles in such metabolic adaptations, due to the involvement in the regulation of mitochondrial respiration. Here, we show that platinum-resistant ovarian cancer cells also show reduced cholesterol biosynthesis, and mostly rely on the uptake of exogenous cholesterol for their needs. Expression of FDPS and OSC, enzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis, are decreased both in drug-resistant cells and upon TRAP1 silencing, whereas the expression of LDL receptor, the main mediator of extracellular cholesterol uptake, is increased. Strikingly, treatment with statins to inhibit cholesterol synthesis reduces cisplatin-induced apoptosis, whereas silencing of LIPG, an enzyme involved in lipid metabolism, or withdrawal of lipids from the culture medium, increases sensitivity to the drug. These results suggest caveats for the use of statins in ovarian cancer patients and highlights the importance of lipid metabolism in ovarian cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Criscuolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Rosario Avolio
- CRG - Centre for Genomic Regulation, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Giovanni Calice
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, 85028 Rionero in Vulture, Italy; (G.C.); (F.M.); (F.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore”, National Research Council (IEOS-CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Simona Paladino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Francesca Maddalena
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, 85028 Rionero in Vulture, Italy; (G.C.); (F.M.); (F.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Fabiana Crispo
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, 85028 Rionero in Vulture, Italy; (G.C.); (F.M.); (F.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Matteo Landriscina
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, 85028 Rionero in Vulture, Italy; (G.C.); (F.M.); (F.C.); (M.L.)
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 7100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Danilo Swann Matassa
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: (D.S.M.); (F.E.)
| | - Franca Esposito
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.C.); (S.P.); (G.N.); (C.P.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: (D.S.M.); (F.E.)
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33
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Bifulco M, Navarra G, Laezza C, Pagano C. Novel role for cannabidiol in circadian clock function. Addict Biol 2020; 25:e12772. [PMID: 31132803 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Dipartimento di Medicina molecolare e Biotecnologie medicheUniversity of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Dipartimento di Medicina molecolare e Biotecnologie medicheUniversity of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | | | - Cristina Pagano
- Dipartimento di Medicina molecolare e Biotecnologie medicheUniversity of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
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Abstract
PREMISE Headaches are a serious public health concern of our days, affecting about 50% of the world's adult population. However, such a plague is not limited to the modern era, since ancient archaeological, written, religious and cultural evidences testify to countless attempts to face such disorders from medical, neurosurgical, psychological and sociological perspectives. BACKGROUND Substantially, the Hippocratic and Galenic theories about headache physiopathology remained predominant up to the 17th century, when the vascular theory of migraine was introduced by Thomas Willis and then evolved into the actual neurovascular hypothesis. The medieval Medical School of Salerno, in southern Italy, where the Greco-Roman medical doctrine was deeply affected by the medio-oriental influence, gave particular attention to both prevention and treatment of headaches. CONCLUSION The texts of the School, a milestone in the literature of medicine, translated into different languages and widespread throughout Europe for centuries, provide numerous useful recipes and ingredients with an actually proven pharmacological efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Marasco
- Neurologia-Stroke Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera dei Colli, Naples, Italy
- Brain and Vision Research Laboratory Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luca Colucci-D'Amato
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
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Laezza C, Pagano C, Navarra G, Pastorino O, Proto MC, Fiore D, Piscopo C, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M. The Endocannabinoid System: A Target for Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030747. [PMID: 31979368 PMCID: PMC7037210 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [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: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the endocannabinoid system has received great interest as a potential therapeutic target in numerous pathological conditions. Cannabinoids have shown an anticancer potential by modulating several pathways involved in cell growth, differentiation, migration, and angiogenesis. However, the therapeutic efficacy of cannabinoids is limited to the treatment of chemotherapy-induced symptoms or cancer pain, but their use as anticancer drugs in chemotherapeutic protocols requires further investigation. In this paper, we reviewed the role of cannabinoids in the modulation of signaling mechanisms implicated in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, IEOS CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
| | - Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
| | - Olga Pastorino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
| | - Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy; (M.C.P.); (D.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.P.); (G.N.); (O.P.)
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (M.B.)
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Navarra G, Pagano C, Pacelli R, Crescenzi E, Longobardi E, Gazzerro P, Fiore D, Pastorino O, Pentimalli F, Laezza C, Bifulco M. N 6-Isopentenyladenosine Enhances the Radiosensitivity of Glioblastoma Cells by Inhibiting the Homologous Recombination Repair Protein RAD51 Expression. Front Oncol 2020; 9:1498. [PMID: 31993371 PMCID: PMC6971108 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is among the most common malignant brain tumors and has a dismal prognosis due to the poor response to therapeutic regimens such as ionizing radiation and DNA-alkylating agents. In our study, we investigated the radiosensitizing activity of the N6-isopentenyladenosine (iPA), an naturally modified adenosine harboring an isopenenyl moiety, which shows antiproliferative effects on glioblastoma cell lines. We observed that co-treatment with ionizing radiation and iPA at micromolar concentration inhibited colony formation and viability of glioblastoma cell lines but not of non-malignant human cells. The combined treatment significantly attenuated the repair of radiation-induced DNA damage by inhibiting both the expression and irradiation-induced foci formation of RAD51, a key player in the homologous recombination repair process, leading to persistent DNA damage, as reflected by an increase of γ-H2AX foci. The radiosensitizing effect relied also on the inhibition of STAT5a/b activation, which is crucial for RAD51 expression, suggesting that iPA modulates the STAT5a/b-RAD51 axis following exposure to ionizing radiation. Overall, these data suggest that iPA, by acting through RAD51 inhibition at the mechanistic level, could function as a promising radiosensitizing agent and warrants further evaluation in prospective clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Navarra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Pacelli
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University School of Medicine, Naples, Italy
| | - Elvira Crescenzi
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Longobardi
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Naples, Italy
| | - Olga Pastorino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Pentimalli
- Cell Biology and Biotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology, Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
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Abstract
Medical teaching must include new knowledge and technologies and how these affect patient care. The Medical Humanities can contribute to a more holistic and caring view of health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
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Grimaldi M, Randino R, Ciaglia E, Scrima M, Buonocore M, Stillitano I, Abate M, Covelli V, Tosco A, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M, Rodriquez M, D'Ursi AM. NMR for screening and a biochemical assay: Identification of new FPPS inhibitors exerting anticancer activity. Bioorg Chem 2019; 98:103449. [PMID: 32057422 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103449] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPPS) is a crucial enzyme for the synthesis of isoprenoids and the key target of nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (N-BPs). N-BPs are potent and selective FPPS inhibitors that are used in the treatment of bone-related diseases, but have poor pharmacokinetic properties. Given the key role played by FPPS in many cancer-related pathways and the pharmacokinetic limits of N-BPs, hundreds of molecules have been screened to identify new FPPS inhibitors characterized by improved drug-like properties that are useful for broader therapeutic applications in solid, non-skeletal tumours. We have previously shown that N6-isopentenyladenosine (i6A) and its related compound N6-benzyladenosine (2) exert anti-glioma activity by interfering with the mevalonate pathway and inhibiting FPPS. Here, we report the design and synthesis of a panel of N6-benzyladenosine derivatives (compounds 2a-m) incorporating different chemical moieties on the benzyl ring. Compounds 2a-m show in vitro antiproliferative activity in U87MG glioma cells and, analogous to the bisphosphonate FPPS inhibitors, exhibit immunogenic properties in ex vivo γδ T cells from stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Using saturation transfer difference (STD) and quantitative 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments, we found that 2f, the N6-benzyladenosine analogue that includes a tertbutyl moiety in the para position of the benzyl ring, is endowed with increased FPPS binding and inhibition compared to the parent compounds i6A and 2. N6-benzyladenosine derivatives, characterized by structural features that are significantly different from those of N-BPs, have been confirmed to be promising chemical scaffolds for the development of non N-BP FPPS inhibitors, exerting combined cytotoxic and immunostimulatory activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Grimaldi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy; Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, V.le J.F. Kennedy 54 - Pad. 20 Mostra d'Oltremare, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosario Randino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mario Scrima
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Michela Buonocore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Ilaria Stillitano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mario Abate
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Verdiana Covelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Alessandra Tosco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 80131 Naples, Italy; Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Manuela Rodriquez
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | - Anna Maria D'Ursi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy.
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Fiore D, Piscopo C, Proto MC, Vasaturo M, Dal Piaz F, Fusco BM, Pagano C, Laezza C, Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. N6-Isopentenyladenosine Inhibits Colorectal Cancer and Improves Sensitivity to 5-Fluorouracil-Targeting FBXW7 Tumor Suppressor. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101456. [PMID: 31569395 PMCID: PMC6826543 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-isopentenyladenosine has been shown to exert potent in vitro antitumor activity on different human cancers, including colorectal cancer. Although some potential biochemical targets have been identified, its precise mechanism of action remains unclear. We found that N6-isopentenyladenosine affects colorectal cancer proliferation in in vitro models carrying different mutational status of FBXW7 and TP53 genes, and in HCT116 xenografts in SCID mice, by increasing the expression of the well-established tumor suppressor FBXW7, a component of the SCF-E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that promotes degradation of various oncoproteins and transcription factors, such as c-Myc, SREBP and Mcl1. Corroborating our previous studies, we identified for the first time the FBXW7/SREBP/FDPS axis as a target of the compound. Pull down of ubiquitinated proteins, immunoprecipitation and luciferase assays, reveal that through the increase of FBXW7/c-Myc binding, N6-isopentenyladenosine induces the ubiquitination of c-Myc, inhibiting its transcriptional activity. Moreover, in FBXW7- and TP53-wild type cells, N6-isopentenyladenosine strongly synergizes with 5-Fluorouracil to inhibit colon cancer growth in vitro. Our results provide novel insights into the molecular mechanism of N6-isopentenyladenosine, revealing its multi-targeting antitumor action, in vitro and in vivo. Restoring of FBXW7 tumor-suppressor represents a valid therapeutic tool, enabling N6-isopentenyladenosine as optimizable compound for patient-personalized therapies in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
- PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
| | - Maria Chiara Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
| | - Michele Vasaturo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Dal Piaz
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi (Salerno), Italy.
| | | | - Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore" (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy.
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Gentile MT, Pastorino O, Bifulco M, Colucci-D'Amato L. HUVEC Tube-formation Assay to Evaluate the Impact of Natural Products on Angiogenesis. J Vis Exp 2019. [PMID: 31282895 DOI: 10.3791/58591] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a phenomenon that includes different processes, such as endothelial cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration, that lead to the formation of new blood vessels and involve several signal transduction pathways. Here we show that the tube formation assay is a simple in vitro method to evaluate the impact of natural products on angiogenesis and to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved. In particular, in the presence of the water extract of Ruta graveolens (RGWE), endothelial cells are no longer able to form a cell-cell network and that the RGWE effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) tube formation is abolished by the constitutive activation of MEK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Gentile
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuropathology, Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli"
| | - Olga Pastorino
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuropathology, Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli"
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II" Naples
| | - Luca Colucci-D'Amato
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuropathology, Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli";
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Bifulco M, De Falco DD, Aquino RP, Pisanti S. Trotula de Ruggiero: The Magistra mulier sapiens and her medical dermatology treatises. J Cosmet Dermatol 2019; 18:1613-1616. [DOI: 10.1111/jocd.12882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies University of Naples "Federico II" Naples Italy
| | | | - Rita P. Aquino
- Department of Pharmacy University of Salerno Salerno Italy
| | - Simona Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana' University of Salerno Salerno Italy
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Pisanti S, Bifulco M. Medical
Cannabis
: A plurimillennial history of an evergreen. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:8342-8351. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Pisanti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana” University of Salerno Salerno Italy
| | - M. Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
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Sorrentino A, Federico A, Rienzo M, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M, Ciccodicola A, Casamassimi A, Abbondanza C. PR/SET Domain Family and Cancer: Novel Insights from the Cancer Genome Atlas. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103250. [PMID: 30347759 PMCID: PMC6214140 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103250] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The PR/SET domain gene family (PRDM) encodes 19 different transcription factors that share a subtype of the SET domain [Su(var)3-9, enhancer-of-zeste and trithorax] known as the PRDF1-RIZ (PR) homology domain. This domain, with its potential methyltransferase activity, is followed by a variable number of zinc-finger motifs, which likely mediate protein⁻protein, protein⁻RNA, or protein⁻DNA interactions. Intriguingly, almost all PRDM family members express different isoforms, which likely play opposite roles in oncogenesis. Remarkably, several studies have described alterations in most of the family members in malignancies. Here, to obtain a pan-cancer overview of the genomic and transcriptomic alterations of PRDM genes, we reanalyzed the Exome- and RNA-Seq public datasets available at The Cancer Genome Atlas portal. Overall, PRDM2, PRDM3/MECOM, PRDM9, PRDM16 and ZFPM2/FOG2 were the most mutated genes with pan-cancer frequencies of protein-affecting mutations higher than 1%. Moreover, we observed heterogeneity in the mutation frequencies of these genes across tumors, with cancer types also reaching a value of about 20% of mutated samples for a specific PRDM gene. Of note, ZFPM1/FOG1 mutations occurred in 50% of adrenocortical carcinoma patients and were localized in a hotspot region. These findings, together with OncodriveCLUST results, suggest it could be putatively considered a cancer driver gene in this malignancy. Finally, transcriptome analysis from RNA-Seq data of paired samples revealed that transcription of PRDMs was significantly altered in several tumors. Specifically, PRDM12 and PRDM13 were largely overexpressed in many cancers whereas PRDM16 and ZFPM2/FOG2 were often downregulated. Some of these findings were also confirmed by real-time-PCR on primary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sorrentino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy.
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Naples "Parthenope", 80143 Naples, Italy.
| | - Antonio Federico
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Naples "Parthenope", 80143 Naples, Italy.
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Monica Rienzo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Gazzerro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Alfredo Ciccodicola
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Naples "Parthenope", 80143 Naples, Italy.
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Amelia Casamassimi
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | - Ciro Abbondanza
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via L. De Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - M Citro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - M Abate
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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45
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Bifulco M. Remembering Professor Gaetano "Nino" Salvatore. Endocrine 2018; 61:173-174. [PMID: 28786075 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1376-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
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Chicca A, Arena C, Bertini S, Gado F, Ciaglia E, Abate M, Digiacomo M, Lapillo M, Poli G, Bifulco M, Macchia M, Tuccinardi T, Gertsch J, Manera C. Polypharmacological profile of 1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-pyridine-3-carboxamides in the endocannabinoid system. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 154:155-171. [PMID: 29793210 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) represents one of the major neuromodulatory systems involved in different physiological and pathological processes. Multi-target compounds exert their activities by acting via multiple mechanisms of action and represent a promising pharmacological modulation of the ECS. In this work we report 4-substituted and 4,5-disubstituted 1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-pyridine-3-carboxamide derivatives with a broad spectrum of affinity and functional activity towards both cannabinoid receptors and additional effects on the main components of the ECS. In particular compound B3 showed high affinity for CB1R (Ki = 23.1 nM, partial agonist) and CB2R (Ki = 6.9 nM, inverse agonist) and also significant inhibitory activity (IC50 = 70 nM) on FAAH with moderate inhibition of ABHD12 (IC50 = 2.5 μΜ). Compounds B4, B5 and B6 that act as full agonists at CB1R and as partial agonists (B5 and B6) or antagonist (B4) at CB2R, exhibited an additional multi-target property by inhibiting anandamide uptake with sub-micromolar IC50 values (0.28-0.62 μΜ). The best derivatives showed cytotoxic activity on U937 lymphoblastoid cells. Finally, molecular docking analysis carried out on the three-dimensional structures of CB1R and CB2R and of FAAH allowed to rationalize the structure-activity relationships of this series of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Arena
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Bertini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Gado
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mario Abate
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maria Digiacomo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Poli
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53019, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Macchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tiziano Tuccinardi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126, Pisa, Italy; Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 28, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
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47
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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48
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Bifulco M, Amato M, Gangemi G, Marasco M, Caggiano M, Amato A, Pisanti S. Dental care and dentistry practice in the Medieval Medical School of Salerno. Br Dent J 2018; 221:87-9. [PMID: 27444600 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2016.528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Even though dental care is sometimes erroneously considered a modern practice, written records from major ancient civilisation all around the world date back to several millennia BC. In particular, in the Middle Ages, among the tenth and thirteenth centuries, the illustrious Medical School of Salerno in Italy, the most important institution in the Western world for the diffusion of medical knowledge, disseminated through its precepts the importance of oral hygiene and practiced specific dental therapies for tooth decay, gingivitis, paradentosis and halitosis among others. Interestingly, several of the officinal plants and natural ingredients proposed for oral care by the school's most famous physicians recipes, notably those of the legendary Trotula De Ruggiero, considered the first female physician in history, are still in vogue in the twenty-first century.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bifulco
- History of Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - M Amato
- Dentistry Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - G Gangemi
- History of Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - M Marasco
- History of Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - M Caggiano
- Dentistry Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - A Amato
- Dentistry Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - S Pisanti
- History of Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
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Fiore D, Ramesh P, Proto MC, Piscopo C, Franceschelli S, Anzelmo S, Medema JP, Bifulco M, Gazzerro P. Rimonabant Kills Colon Cancer Stem Cells without Inducing Toxicity in Normal Colon Organoids. Front Pharmacol 2018; 8:949. [PMID: 29354056 PMCID: PMC5758598 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [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: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC), like other tumor types, is a highly heterogeneous disease. Within the tumor bulk, intra-tumoral heterogeneity is also ascribable to Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) subpopulation, characterized by high chemoresistance and the unique ability to retain tumorigenic potential, thus associated to tumor recurrence. High dynamic plasticity of CSCs, makes the development of winning therapeutic strategies even more complex to completely eradicate tumor fuel. Rimonabant, originally synthesized as antagonist/inverse agonist of Cannabinoid Receptor 1, is able to inactivate Wnt signaling, both in vitro and in vivo, in CRC models, through inhibition of p300-histone acetyltransferase activity. Since Wnt/β-Catenin pathway is the main player underlying CSCs dynamic, this finding candidates Rimonabant as potential modulator of cancer stemness, in CRC. In this work, using established 3D cultures of primary colon CSCs, taking into account the tumor heterogeneity through monitoring of Wnt activity, we demonstrated that Rimonabant was able to reduces both tumor differentiated cells and colon CSCs proliferation and to control their survival in long term cultures. Interestingly, in ex vivo model of wild type human organoids, retaining both architecture and heterogeneity of original tissue, Rimonabant showed no toxicity against cells from healthy colon epithelium, suggesting its potential selectivity toward cancer cells. Overall, results from this work provided new insights on anti-tumor efficacy of Rimonabant, strongly suggesting that it could be a novel lead compound for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Fiore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Prashanthi Ramesh
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Academisch Medisch Centrum, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maria C Proto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Chiara Piscopo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | | | - Serena Anzelmo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Jan P Medema
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Academisch Medisch Centrum, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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50
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Santoro A, Ciaglia E, Nicolin V, Pescatore A, Prota L, Capunzo M, Ursini MV, Nori SL, Bifulco M. The isoprenoid end product N6-isopentenyladenosine reduces inflammatory response through the inhibition of the NFκB and STAT3 pathways in cystic fibrosis cells. Inflamm Res 2017; 67:315-326. [PMID: 29230506 PMCID: PMC5843674 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-017-1123-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective N6-isopentenyladenosine (iPA) is an intermediate of the mevalonate pathway that exhibits various anti-cancer effects. However, studies on its anti-inflammatory activity are scarce and underlying molecular mechanisms are unknown. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the ability of iPA to exert anti-inflammatory effects in the human cystic fibrosis (CF) cell model of exacerbated inflammation. Materials and methods TNFα-stimulated CF cells CuFi-1 and its normal counterpart NuLi-1 were pre-treated with increasing concentrations of iPA and cell viability and proliferation were assessed by MTT and BrdU assays. The effect of iPA on IL-8 and RANTES secretion was determined by ELISA, and the activation and expression of signaling molecules and selenoproteins were studied by Western blot. To assess the direct effect of iPA on NFκB activity, luciferase assay was performed on TNFα-stimulated HEK293/T cells transfected with a NFκB reporter plasmid. Results We demonstrated for the first time that iPA prevents IL-8 and RANTES release in TNFα-stimulated CF cells and this effect is mediated by increasing the expression of the direct NFκB inhibitor IκBα and decreasing the levels of STAT3. Consistent with this, we showed that iPA inhibited TNFα-mediated NFκB activation in HEK/293T cells. Finally, we also found that iPA improved the levels of glutathione peroxidase 1 and thioredoxin reductase 1 only in CF cells suggesting its ability to maintain sufficient expression of these anti-oxidant selenoproteins. Conclusions Our findings indicate that iPA can exert anti-inflammatory activity especially in the cases of excessive inflammatory response as in CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Santoro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Vanessa Nicolin
- Clinical Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pescatore
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati-Traverso" CNR, Via P. Castellino, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Prota
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mario Capunzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Matilde V Ursini
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati-Traverso" CNR, Via P. Castellino, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania L Nori
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy. .,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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