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Greco C, D'Agnano I, Vitelli G, Vona R, Marino M, Mottolese M, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E, Ameglio F. C-Myc Deregulation is Involved in Melphalan Resistance of Multiple Myeloma: Role of PDGF-BB. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/205873920601900107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenes are important regulators of cancer growth and progression and their action may be modulated by proteins of the growth factor family, such as angiogenic cytokines, known to be strongly involved in neoplastic evolution. Reciprocal interactions between oncogenes and angiogenic modulators may represent, in haematological neoplasms, including multiple myeloma (MM), a possible mechanism of drug resistance. The aim of this work is to investigate in vitro and in vivo whether or not c-myc deregulation is involved in the melphalan resistance elicited by myeloma patients and consequently to clarify the role of the angiogenic factor PDGF-BB in modulating c-myc protein expression. Fifty-one MM patients on chemotherapy with melphalan were analyzed for structural alterations of the c-myc gene, c-Myc protein expression, as well as for serum PDGF-BB release. For the in vitro study, two M14-derived established cell clones, differing for the c-Myc protein expression (c-Myc low -expressing or constitutively expressing clones) were used. Our results show that PDGF-BB is able to up-regulate Myc expression and reduce melphalan sensitivity of tumor cell clones, constitutively expressing c-myc gene product. In addition, down-regulation of c-Myc protein induces the expression of PDGF-β receptor molecules and reduces PDGF-BB release. In agreement with these results, in vivo data show that melphalan-resistant MM patients present overexpressed c-Myc protein and higher serum PDGF-β receptor levels compared to minor responding patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Greco
- Clinical Pathology Service, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome
| | - I. D'Agnano
- Pharmacology Dept, University of Milan, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome
- Institute of Biomedical Technology-CNR, Milan
| | - G. Vitelli
- Clinical Pathology Service, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome
| | - R. Vona
- Clinical Pathology Service, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome
- Dept of Drug Research and Evaluation Section of Cell Aging and Degeneration, 1st. Superiore di Sanita', Rome, Italy
| | - M. Marino
- Pathological Anatomy Service, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome
| | - M. Mottolese
- Pathological Anatomy Service, Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Rome
| | - C. Zuppi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome
| | - E. Capoluongo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome
| | - F. Ameglio
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome
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2
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Capoluongo E, Vento G, Ameglio F, Lulli P, Matassa P, Carrozza C, Santini S, Antenucci M, Castagnola M, Giardina B, Romagnoli C, Zuppi C. Increased Levels of IGF-1 and Beta2-Microglobulin in Epithelial Lining Fluid of Preterm Newborns Developing Chronic Lung Disease: Effects of rhG-CSF. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/205873920601900106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is involved in regulating the TH-l/TH-2 balance, favoring the development of the TH-2 compartment which enhances fibrosis, one of the main characteristics of Chronic Lung Disease (CLD) in premature newborns. Limited data is available concerning a possible association between early epithelial lining fluid (ELF) concentrations of IGF-1 (total and free forms), IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), b2-microglobulin (B2M) and subsequent development of CLD in preterm neonates. If neutropenic, preterm neonates are frequently treated with recombinant human Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (rhG-CSF). The objective of the study was to correlate ELF concentrations of IGF-1 and B2M during the first week of life both in non-neutropenic and in rhG-CSF-treated neutropenic preterm neonates, with subsequent development in CLD. Thirty preterm neonates with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (6 with neutropenia) were studied. Eleven out of 24 non-neutropenic preterm infants (46%) and all of the six neutropenic subjects (100%) developed CLD. With the exception of first day values, there was a clear similarity in the behaviors of assayed molecules between non-neutropenic and neutropenic patients developing CLD. Non-neutropenic patients without CLD showed significantly lower values of free IGF-1 and B2M both on days 1 and 3. Total IGF-I and cell counts were different only on the 3rd day. Conclusions: 1) the mechanisms leading to CLD might be mediated by high levels of IGF-family molecules soon after birth 2) B2M could be a marker of increased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cellularity with potential inflammatory properties 3) G-CSF treatment induces an increased synthesis of IGF-1 molecules by cells recruited in the lung, with possible enhancement of the fibrogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Capoluongo
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - G. Vento
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Catholic University, 00168 - Rome, Italy
| | - F. Ameglio
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - P. Lulli
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - P.G. Matassa
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Catholic University, 00168 - Rome, Italy
| | - C. Carrozza
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - S.A. Santini
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - M. Antenucci
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - M. Castagnola
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - B. Giardina
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
| | - C. Romagnoli
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Catholic University, 00168 - Rome, Italy
| | - C. Zuppi
- Biochemistry and Clinical-Biochemistry Institute and Scientific International Institute “Paolo VI”
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Musumeci V, Rosa S, Caruso A, Zappacosta B, Tutinelli F, Zuppi C. Urine Beta-Thromboglobulin Concentration or Beta-Thromboglobulin/Creatinine Ratio in Single Voided Urine Samples Cannot Be Reliably Used to Estimate Quantitative Beta-Thromboglobulin Excretion. Thromb Haemost 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1661434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
SummaryDifferent procedures are currently used in the urine beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) assay. We investigated the reliability of limited urine collections and of different expressions of urine BTG results (concentration, urine BTG/creatinine ratio) for the measurement of hourly or daily BTG excretion rates. BTG was measured by a sensitive RIA method in various urine collections of normal subjects (n.80) and patients (n.120) with miscellaneous diseases where an enhanced in-vivo platelet activation could be expected. The BTG concentration in a 6-hour urine collection appeared to change in relation to the urine flow rate (r = -0.53 in normals, r = 0.27 in patients, p <0.01) and urine osmolality (r = 0.46 in normals, r = 0.31 in patients, p <0.01). In both normals and patients not a very good correlation was observed between the urine BTG/creatinine ratio and the BTG excretion rate (r = 0.54 and r = 0.48; p <0.001, respectively). Variable coefficients of correlation (r = 0.83-0.34) were observed between the BTG excretion rate of single voidings of the morning, afternoon-evening and night and the daily BTG excretion both in normals and patients. Reliable measurements of the BTG in urine should be expressed as the hourly excretion rate in a given period of the day for limited urine collections or as the daily excretion for 24-hour urine collections.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Musumeci
- The Servizio di Chimica Clinica, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - S Rosa
- The Servizio di Chimica Clinica, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - A Caruso
- The Servizio di Chimica Clinica, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - B Zappacosta
- The Istituto di Patologia Speciale Medica and Istituto di Fisiologia Umana, Italy
| | - F Tutinelli
- The Servizio di Chimica Clinica, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - C Zuppi
- The Istituto di Patologia Speciale Medica and Istituto di Fisiologia Umana, Italy
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Milardi D, Grande G, Autilio C, Mancini F, De Marinis L, Marana R, Zuppi C, Urbani A, Pontecorvi A, Baroni S. Seminal suPAR Levels as Marker of Abacterial Male Accessory Gland Inflammation in Hypogonadism. Protein Pept Lett 2018; 25:478-482. [DOI: 10.2174/0929866525666180418121421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Milardi
- International Scientific Institute "Paul VI", Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grande
- International Scientific Institute "Paul VI", Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Autilio
- Institute of Chemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Mancini
- International Scientific Institute "Paul VI", Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura De Marinis
- Division of Endocrinology, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Marana
- International Scientific Institute "Paul VI", Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Institute of Chemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Institute of Chemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- International Scientific Institute "Paul VI", Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Baroni
- Institute of Chemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
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Autilio C, Morelli R, Locantore P, Pontecorvi A, Zuppi C, Carrozza C. Stimulating TSH receptor autoantibodies immunoassay: analytical evaluation and clinical performance in Graves’ disease. Ann Clin Biochem 2017; 55:172-177. [DOI: 10.1177/0004563217700655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor (TSHR) autoantibodies (TRAbs) are a heterogeneous group of antibodies (Abs) with different functionalities. Among all TRAbs, only the stimulating ones (S-TRAbs) are considered as the pathogenetic marker of Graves’ disease (GD). To date, the methods available for TRAbs testing are based on immunoassays (IMAs) which detect total serum TRAbs or bioassays which are not suitable in clinical practice, even though they discern Abs functionality. The aim of our work was to evaluate the analytical and clinical performance of a very recent IMA (Immulite TSI method), supposed to test only the serum concentration of S-TRAbs, in comparison with a current method for total TRAbs (Roche/Elecsys IMA). Methods We evaluated serum samples of 145 subjects: 46 with untreated (GD), 36 with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, 3 with atrophic thyroiditis, 10 with multinodular non-toxic goiter and 50 healthy subjects. Results The method showed an optimal analytical sensitivity and high precision levels (LoB: 0.04 UI/L, LoD:0.07 UI/L, LoQ:0.14 UI/L, intra-assay CV: 4.2–5.9%, inter-assay: 4.5–7.2%). By receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, we obtained a value of 0.57 (sensitivity: 98.0%, specificity: 99.9%) as the best cut-off to distinguish GD, apart from four cases. Passing Bablok regression and Bland Altman analysis pointed out a good correlation and agreement with Roche method (R2 = 0.98, slope = 1.03, bias = −2.70). Conclusions The new method presents very promising analytical characteristics and could be adopted in clinical practice for GD diagnosis. Moreover, the test allows to accurately detect very low values of analyte with a further clinical utility in detecting earlier possible relapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Autilio
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University-Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - R Morelli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University-Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - P Locantore
- Units of Endocrinology, Catholic University – Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Pontecorvi
- Units of Endocrinology, Catholic University – Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - C Zuppi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University-Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - C Carrozza
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University-Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Concolino P, Rizza R, Costella A, Carrozza C, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. CYP21A2 intronic variants causing 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Metabolism 2017; 71:46-51. [PMID: 28521877 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an autosomal recessive disorder mainly caused by defects in the steroid 21-hydroxylase gene (CYP21A2). Most of CYP21A2 mutations result from intergenic recombinations between CYP21A2 and closely linked CYP21A1P pseudogene. Rare mutations not generated by gene conversion account for 5-10% of 21-hydroxylase deficiency alleles. Intronic variants represent only a little part of these but their effect on the protein is generally deleterious. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive literary review regarding all intronic CYP21A2 pathological variants reported to date. In addition, we describe three novel causing disease variants in our patients affected by the classic form of CAH: IVS4-1G>A, IVS5-8T>A, IVS8-2A>G. In silico analysis revealed that all these substitutions affect the splicing process leading to a non-functional protein. Based on these results, we are able to classify them as pathological variants according to the patient's phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Concolino
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberta Rizza
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Costella
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Carrozza
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Capoluongo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
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7
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Concolino P, Rizza R, Hackmann K, Paris I, Minucci A, De Paolis E, Scambia G, Zuppi C, Schrock E, Capoluongo E. Characterization of a new BRCA1 rearrangement in an Italian woman with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2017; 164:497-503. [PMID: 28488140 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-017-4275-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We report a novel BRCA1 LGR, involving the complete duplication of exon 3, in an Italian patient with a strong family history of breast and ovarian cancer. Our purpose is to provide an effective characterization of this LGR using a combination of different methods able to establish the exact breakpoints of the duplication. METHODS MAQ assay was used as primary screening method in LGRs detection. Array CGH, RT-PCR, and Long-PCR were used for a careful characterization of rearrangement and breakpoint regions. The Repeat Masker program was employed to identify Alu sequences at breakpoint junctions. RESULTS RNA analysis showed that this in tandem duplication of exon 3 causes an in frame insertion of 18 amino acids within the protein. Array CGH and Long-PCR strategies revealed that the duplication (g.100411_102863dup) involves exactly 2.452 nucleotides between intron 2 and intron 3 of the gene. In addition, while an Alu Sx sequence was identified at upstream breakpoint, no Alu repeats were found at downstream junction. This supports the hypothesis that the new duplication was the result of a non-homologous recombination event between Alu and Non-Alu sequences. CONCLUSION Our strategy, which combines a comprehensive set of methodologies, has been able to characterize the new BRCA1 duplication confirming, as previously reported, that MAQ assay represents a reliable and effective method for a primary screening of BRCA rearrangements. We underline the relevance of incorporating quantitative methods for BRCA genes dosage testing into routine diagnostic practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Concolino
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberta Rizza
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Karl Hackmann
- Institut fuer Klinische Genetik, Medizinische Fakultaet Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universitaet Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany
| | - Ida Paris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Minucci
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa De Paolis
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Evelin Schrock
- Institut fuer Klinische Genetik, Medizinische Fakultaet Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universitaet Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany
| | - Ettore Capoluongo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
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Cittadini F, De Giovanni N, Caradonna L, Vetrugno G, Oliva A, Fucci N, Zuppi C, Pascali VL, Covino M. Prevalence of alcohol and other drugs in injured drivers and their association with clinical outcomes. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2017; 21:2008-2014. [PMID: 28537688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a risk factor for motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). This issue has become an increasing concern for the governments of many European and North American countries, thereby encouraging the adoption of preventive policies. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between major clinical outcomes and alcohol or drug abuse among drivers involved in MVAs who were referred to an Italian Emergency Department. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study population consisted of consecutive injured drivers who were admitted to the Emergency Department following an MVA during a period of one year. The patients' blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) and the presence of the most common drugs of abuse [amphetamine, methamphetamine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), barbiturates, benzodiazepines, benzoylecgonine (cocaine main metabolite), cannabinoids, methadone, and opiates)] were determined and evaluated in association with major clinical outcomes and demographic data. RESULTS Overall, 347 injured drivers were enrolled. Of the 347 enrolled patients, 164 (47.3%) had a positive BAC (greater than 5 mg/dL). A subgroup of 107 injured drivers was also screened for drugs of abuse. Thirty-seven of these subjects (34.5%) were positive for at least one drug. A statistically significant association was found between BAC and triage at admission (p<0.01), hospitalization (p<0.01), and lesions of internal organs (p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study show that a significant proportion of injured drivers had detectable levels of BAC and/or illegal drugs. Positive BACs were significantly associated with worse clinical outcomes. These findings suggest that the implementation of methods to prevent alcohol and drug abuse is of paramount importance in the effort to reduce the rates of MVAs and their dramatic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cittadini
- Institute of Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, Polyclinic Gemelli Foundation, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
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Minucci A, De Paolis E, Concolino P, De Bonis M, Rizza R, Canu G, Scaglione GL, Mignone F, Scambia G, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Competitive PCR-High Resolution Melting Analysis (C-PCR-HRMA) for large genomic rearrangements (LGRs) detection: A new approach to assess quantitative status of BRCA1 gene in a reference laboratory. Clin Chim Acta 2017; 470:83-92. [PMID: 28465148 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2017.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY Evaluation of copy number variation (CNV) in BRCA1/2 genes, due to large genomic rearrangements (LGRs), is a mandatory analysis in hereditary breast and ovarian cancers families, if no pathogenic variants are found by sequencing. LGRs cannot be detected by conventional methods and several alternative methods have been developed. Since these approaches are expensive and time consuming, identification of alternative screening methods for LGRs detection is needed in order to reduce and optimize the diagnostic procedure. The aim of this study was to investigate a Competitive PCR-High Resolution Melting Analysis (C-PCR-HRMA) as molecular tool to detect recurrent BRCA1 LGRs. MATERIAL AND METHODS C-PCR-HRMA was performed on exons 3, 14, 18, 19, 20 and 21 of the BRCA1 gene; exons 4, 6 and 7 of the ALB gene were used as reference fragments. RESULTS This study showed that it is possible to identify recurrent BRCA1 LGRs, by melting peak height ratio between target (BRCA1) and reference (ALB) fragments. Furthermore, we underline that a peculiar amplicon-melting profile is associated to a specific BRCA1 LGR. All C-PCR-HRMA results were confirmed by Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification. CONCLUSIONS C-PCR-HRMA has proved to be an innovative, efficient and fast method for BRCA1 LGRs detection. Given the sensitivity, specificity and ease of use, c-PCR-HRMA can be considered an attractive and powerful alternative to other methods for BRCA1 CNVs screening, improving molecular strategies for BRCA testing in the context of Massive Parallel Sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Minucci
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy.
| | - Elisa De Paolis
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Concolino
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria De Bonis
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizza
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Canu
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Scaglione
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavio Mignone
- Department of Science and Innovation Technology (DISIT), University of Piemonte Orientale, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Capoluongo
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Teaching and Research Hospital "Agostino Gemelli" Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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Metafuni E, Giammarco S, De Ritis DG, Rossi M, De Michele T, Zuppi C, Bacigalupo AP, Sica S, Chiusolo P. Fecal but not serum calprotectin is a potential marker of GVHD after stem cell transplantation. Ann Hematol 2017; 96:929-933. [PMID: 28293713 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-017-2974-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) represents a life-threatening complication after stem cell transplantation. Differential diagnosis between gut GvHD and other causes of diarrhea after HSCT is still subjected to endoscopy and histological findings. The research for a reliable biomarker for gut GvHD might allow an early diagnosis of this condition and a consequent prompt treatment that could reduce unfavorable outcomes. Recently, fecal calprotectin was reported as reliable marker of gut involvement. We would evaluate if serum instead of fecal calprotectin could be considered a possible biomarker of gut GvHD. Serum calprotectin was measured in a cohort of 54 patients submitted to allogeneic stem cell transplantation using ELISA assay. For a subset of 21 patients, calprotectin serum levels were compared with fecal calprotectin detection. Contrary to fecal calprotectin, we found only a trend to high level of serum calprotectin for GvHD development and gut involvement, but statistical difference was not reached. Fecal but not serum calprotectin could be considered as possible biomarker for gut GvHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Metafuni
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Giammarco
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Giovanna De Ritis
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Rossi
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Teresa De Michele
- Biochemistry Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Biochemistry Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea P Bacigalupo
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Sica
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy. .,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Chiusolo
- Hematology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
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11
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Molinario R, Autilio C, Pocino K, Daloiso PD, Di Leva S, Zuppi C, Antenucci M. Analytical evaluation of a new liquid immunoturbidimetric assay for the determination of ferritin in serum. Clin Chem Lab Med 2016; 53:e351-3. [PMID: 26087064 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2015-0270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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12
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De Santis E, Masi S, Cordone I, Pisani F, Zuppi C, Mattei F, Conti L, Cigliana G. Follow-up of IgD-κ multiple myeloma by monitoring free light chains and total heavy chain IgD: A case report. Oncol Lett 2016; 12:1884-1888. [PMID: 27588135 PMCID: PMC4998028 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin (Ig)D-κ multiple myeloma (MM) is a rare neoplastic disease characterized by an aggressive and rapidly progressing course, which constitutes only a very small proportion of all MM cases. In the present report, the clinical case of a 51-year-old Caucasian woman diagnosed with IgD-κ MM is described. The patient underwent different chemotherapeutic treatments subsequently to a single autologous stem cell transplantation. Despite the inherent difficulty of monitoring IgD levels and performing serum immunofixation electrophoresis, the clinical outcome of the patient was almost uniquely monitored by measuring the levels of κ and λ free light chains (FLCs) and total heavy chain IgD. The data suggest the non-invasive potential and usefulness of FLCs evaluation for early detection of stringent complete remission, follow-up and early detection of disease relapse. In addition, this diagnostic procedure has successfully been employed for the therapeutic monitoring of the present patient, and may represent a very helpful, non-invasive tool for the follow-up of IgD myeloma patients without the requirement of serial bone marrow aspirate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena De Santis
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Italian National Cancer Institute 'Regina Elena', I-00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Masi
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Italian National Cancer Institute 'Regina Elena', I-00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Iole Cordone
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Italian National Cancer Institute 'Regina Elena', I-00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pisani
- Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, Italian National Cancer Institute 'Regina Elena', I-00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Diagnostics, University Hospital Agostino Gemelli, I-00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Mattei
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Health, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Italian National Cancer Institute 'Regina Elena', I-00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cigliana
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Italian National Cancer Institute 'Regina Elena', I-00144 Rome, Italy
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13
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Gervasoni J, Schiattarella A, Primiano A, D'Addurno I, Cocci A, Zuppi C, Persichilli S. Simultaneous quantification of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, testosterone and cortisol in human serum by LC-MS/MS using TurboFlow online sample extraction. Clin Biochem 2016; 49:998-1003. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2016.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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14
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Napodano C, Pocino K, Gulli F, Colacicco L, Santini SA, Zuppi C, Basile U. Comparison of Fully Automated and Semiautomated Systems for Protein Immunofixation Electrophoresis. J Clin Lab Anal 2016; 31. [PMID: 27424526 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.22027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to establish a diagnosis of monoclonal gammopathy, it is necessary to detect and identify monoclonal components. To confirm the immunological nature of the proteins, the next step is to define their composition in heavy and light chains using immunofixation. The purpose of this study was to compare two different instruments, one semiautomated and the other fully automated for serum and urine immunofixation. METHODS We selected 150 sera and 100 urines from patients admitted for routine analysis, which were analyzed by immunofixation to characterize monoclonal components. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Comparison study showed a difference in the identification of small monoclonal components and hypogammaglobulinemia, in serum and urine, between the two analyzers. We also observed a difference in the length of the electrophoretic pattern that is of considerable importance as it leads to a better resolution of the gamma region, allowing to identify even the smallest monoclonal component that can be easily hide in an oligoclonal pattern. For this reason, there is need to ameliorate commercial immunofixation assays. It is essential to improve data harmonization and standardize measurement procedures in order to guarantee a correct diagnosis for the right patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Napodano
- School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Krizia Pocino
- School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gulli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Madre Giuseppina Vannini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Colacicco
- School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Angelo Santini
- School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Basile
- School of Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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15
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Molinario R, Pocino K, Daloiso PD, Giannace A, Spirito G, Zuppi C, Antenucci M. Urinary Albumin Detection: Comparison of Two Different Methods. J Clin Lab Anal 2016; 30:888-891. [PMID: 27061674 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.21952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 12/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring urinary albumin is a useful method in clinical practice for the management of diabetic nephropathy, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension. Currently there are neither standardized methods nor reference material for the determination of urinary albumin; for this reason it is useful to compare different assays used in clinical laboratory. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to verify analytical performance of an immunoturbidimetric assay on Roche Cobas 8000 platform and to compare urinary albumin results with those obtained by immunonephelometry on Siemens Dade Behring BN II Nephelometer. RESULTS The method comparison showed a good linear relationship, confirmed by Passing-Bablok and Bland-Altman plots. The turbidimetric assay meets the requirements of accuracy and precision for the practice of medical diagnostics and clinical use. CONCLUSIONS The present study can contribute to the methods standardization and harmonization of urinary albumin assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Molinario
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy.
| | - Krizia Pocino
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy
| | - Pio Dante Daloiso
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Giannace
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Spirito
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy
| | - Mirca Antenucci
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, "A. Gemelli" Policlinico Universitario, Rome, Italy
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16
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De Pascale G, Vallecoccia MS, Schiattarella A, Di Gravio V, Cutuli SL, Bello G, Montini L, Pennisi MA, Spanu T, Zuppi C, Quraishi SA, Antonelli M. Clinical and microbiological outcome in septic patients with extremely low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels at initiation of critical care. Clin Microbiol Infect 2015; 22:456.e7-456.e13. [PMID: 26721785 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2015.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
A relationship between vitamin D status and mortality in patients in intensive care units (ICU) has been documented. The present study aims to describe the clinical profile and sepsis-related outcome of critically ill septic patients with extremely low (<7 ng/mL) vitamin D levels at ICU admission. We conducted an observational study in the ICU of a teaching hospital including all patients admitted with severe sepsis/septic shock and undergoing 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) testing within the first 24 hours from admission. We studied 107 patients over 12 months. At ICU admission vitamin D deficiency (≤20 ng/mL) was observed in 93.5% of the patients: 57 (53.3%) showed levels <7 ng/mL. As primary outcome, sepsis-related mortality rate was higher in patients with vitamin D levels <7 ng/mL (50.9% versus 26%). Multivariate regression analysis showed that vitamin D concentration <7 ng/mL on ICU admission (p 0.01) and higher mean SAPS II (p <0.01) score were independent predictors of sepsis-related mortality. Patients with very low vitamin D levels suffered higher rate of microbiologically confirmed infections but a lower percentage of microbiological eradication with respect to patients whose values were >7 ng/mL (80.7% versus 58%, p 0.02; 35.3% versus 68%; p 0.03, respectively). Post hoc analysis showed that, in the extremely low vitamin D group, the 52 patients with pneumonia showed a longer duration of mechanical ventilation (9 days (3.75-12.5 days) versus 4 days (2-9 days), p 0.04) and the 66 with septic shock needed vasopressor support for a longer period of time (7 days (4-10 days) versus 4 days (2-7.25 days), p 0.02). Our results suggest that in critical septic patients extremely low vitamin D levels on admission may be a major determinant of clinical outcome. Benefits of vitamin D replacement therapy in this population should be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- G De Pascale
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy.
| | - M S Vallecoccia
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
| | - A Schiattarella
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Rome, Italy
| | - V Di Gravio
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
| | - S L Cutuli
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
| | - G Bello
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
| | - L Montini
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
| | - M A Pennisi
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
| | - T Spanu
- Institute of Microbiology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Agostino Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - C Zuppi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Rome, Italy
| | - S A Quraishi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Anesthesia, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Antonelli
- Department of Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Rome, Italy
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17
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De Pascale G, Vallecoccia MS, Gasperin E, Giacobelli D, Schiattarella A, Autunno A, Di Gravio V, Marsili S, Cutuli SL, Pennisi MA, Zuppi C, Quraishi SA, Antonelli M. Clinical outcome of septic patients with undetectable vitamin D levels at ICU admission. Intensive Care Med Exp 2015. [PMCID: PMC4797555 DOI: 10.1186/2197-425x-3-s1-a80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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18
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De Crea C, Raffaelli M, Milano V, Carrozza C, Zuppi C, Bellantone R, Lombardi CP. Intraoperative high-dose calcium stimulation test in patients with sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma is highly accurate in predicting lateral neck metastases. Surgery 2015; 159:70-6. [PMID: 26456123 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2015.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intraoperative measurement of calcitonin is not highly accurate in predicting the completeness of the operative resection after total thyroidectomy combined with central neck dissection (TT-CND) in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). We evaluated whether an intraoperative, high-dose calcium stimulation test (IO-CST) after TT-CND can predict lateral neck involvement. METHODS Eleven patients who underwent primary operation for sporadic MTC were included. High-dose (25 mg/kg) calcium gluconate was administered after TT-CND with calcitonin measured at 2, 5, and 10 minutes after the calcium gluconate infusion. RESULTS There were 2 males and 9 females (mean age, 51 years; range, 18-88). Three patients showed lateral neck metastases. At a mean follow-up of 7.0 months (range, 2-10), 1 patient showed distant metastases and 1 a slightly increased calcitonin level. After IO-CST, serum calcitonin increased in all the 3 patients with lateral neck metastases, and it remained unchanged or decreased in the other patients without lateral neck metastases. Percent variation of serum calcitonin after IO-CST was 92% in patients with lateral neck metastases and -3.1 ± 4.9% in patients without lateral neck metastases. CONCLUSION Calcitonin measurement after IO-CST in patients with sporadic MTC can be highly accurate in predicting lateral neck nodes involvement. These results could represent a stimulus toward the development of a quick calcitonin assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela De Crea
- U.O. Chirurgia Endocrina e Metabolica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Raffaelli
- U.O. Chirurgia Endocrina e Metabolica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
| | - Valentina Milano
- U.O. Chirurgia Endocrina e Metabolica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Carrozza
- U.O. Analisi Ormonali e Biologia Molecolare Clinica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- U.O. Analisi Ormonali e Biologia Molecolare Clinica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Bellantone
- U.O. Chirurgia Endocrina e Metabolica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Celestino Pio Lombardi
- U.O. Chirurgia Endocrina e Metabolica, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Autilio C, Morelli R, Milardi D, Grande G, Marana R, Pontecorvi A, Zuppi C, Baroni S. Soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor as a putative marker of male accessory gland inflammation. Andrology 2015; 3:1054-61. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Autilio
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - R. Morelli
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - D. Milardi
- International Scientific Institute “Paul VI” of Research on Human Fertility and Infertility; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - G. Grande
- International Scientific Institute “Paul VI” of Research on Human Fertility and Infertility; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - R. Marana
- International Scientific Institute “Paul VI” of Research on Human Fertility and Infertility; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - A. Pontecorvi
- Department of Endocrinology; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - C. Zuppi
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
| | - S. Baroni
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine; School of Medicine; “A. Gemelli” Hospital; Catholic University; Rome Italy
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20
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De Corso E, Baroni S, Lucidi D, Battista M, Romanello M, Autilio C, Morelli R, Di Nardo W, Passali GC, Sergi B, Bussu F, Fetoni AR, Zuppi C, Paludetti G. Nasal lavage levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and chronic nasal hypereosinophilia. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2015; 5:557-62. [PMID: 25821067 DOI: 10.1002/alr.21519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to measure levels of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in nasal lavage of patients affected by chronic eosinophilic sinonasal inflammation to clarify the relationship with eosinophilic tissue infiltration and clinical features. METHODS Between November 2012 and June 2013, we selected 70 patients with chronic eosinophilic inflammation (average age 41.8 years) who were classified into the following groups: persistent allergic rhinitis (group 1), noninfectious non-allergic rhinitis with eosinophilia syndrome (group 2) and chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps (group 3). Finally, we enrolled 20 healthy subjects as controls (group 4). All patients underwent symptoms score questionnaire based on a visual analogue scale, nasal endoscopy and/or computed tomography (CT) scan, and allergy testing. Nasal cytology by scraping of the mucosa and GM-CSF assays in nasal lavage were performed in all subjects. RESULTS Detectable levels of GM-CSF were found in 34 of 70 (48.57%) patients, with an average concentration of 2.67 ± 0.8 pg/mL, whereas in controls only 1 of 20 individuals showed detectable GM-CSF levels. Eosinophil infiltration was significantly higher in patients with detectable GM-CSF compared to those with undetectable levels (49.4% vs 39.2%, respectively; p < 0.05). Furthermore, significant weakly-moderate correlation was found between GM-CSF levels and percentage of eosinophil infiltration in tissue (p < 0.05). Correlation between symptom scores and GM-CSF levels was significant only in group 2, which showed higher average concentrations of GM-CSF compared to groups 1 and 3 (2.9 pg/mL vs 1.6 pg/mL and 1.8 pg/mL, respectively; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our data confirm that GM-CSF is more frequently detectable in nasal lavages of patients affected by chronic sinonasal eosinophilic inflammation than in controls. Statistical analyses revealed a significant weakly-moderate correlation between GM-CSF levels in nasal lavage of all patients and percentage of eosinophil infiltration of nasal mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio De Corso
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Baroni
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine-Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Lucidi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariapina Battista
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Romanello
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Autilio
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine-Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Morelli
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine-Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Walter Di Nardo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Cesare Passali
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Sergi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Bussu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Fetoni
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine-Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetano Paludetti
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
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21
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Albino G, Capoluongo E, Rocchetti S, Palumbo S, Zuppi C, Cirillo-Marucco E. Evaluation of the diagnostic and predictive power of PCA3 in the prostate cancer. A different best cut-off in each different scenario. Preliminary results. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 86:306-10. [PMID: 25641459 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2014.4.306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic performance of PCA3 in patients with indication to perform a new biopsy, according to the histological doubt such as High Grade Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (HGPIN) or Atypical Small Gland Proliferation (ASAP) or the clinical suspicion. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred men were enrolled. We used the PCA3 - PROGENSA™ procedure. After the PCA3 test a repeated prostate biopsy was proposed. The histological findings were correlated to the PCA3 scores. We calculated the positive predictive value (PPV), the sensibility, the specificity, the Youden's index, the ROC curves, the area under the curve (AUC) for each cut-off value of PCA3 score. RESULTS These results are preliminary, because at present only 50 of the 100 enlisted men were subjected to rebiopsy. We calculated the best cut-off PCA3 score 20 at the first diagnosis; for patients with HGPIN or ASAP at first biopsy the best sensitivity cut-off is 45; the best cutoff is 45 when you already have a diagnosis of HGPIN, and 35 for ASAP. If we normalize the PCA3 score to the prostate volume, the best cut-off would be 20, with 100% sensitivity with a prostate volume of 65 ml. All results are statistically significant. The real problem, also present in literature, is the constant presence of not diagnosed prostate cancers, for any cut-off value. CONCLUSIONS Our preliminary results suggest that, to get the best diagnostic performance, it would be wrong to maintain a single cut-off, but it should be chosen according to the scenario of the patients subgroup. It is to explore the possibility to search for the PCA3 in the serum to bridge the gap of the aggressive PCa missed by the urinary test.
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Santonocito C, Scapaticci M, Guarino D, Annicchiarico EB, Lisci R, Penitente R, Gasbarrini A, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Lactose intolerance genetic testing: is it useful as routine screening? Results on 1426 south-central Italy patients. Clin Chim Acta 2014; 439:14-7. [PMID: 25281930 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2014.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adult-type hypolactasia is a widespread condition throughout the world, causing lactose malabsorption. Several studies suggested that the identification of C/T-13910 and G/A-22018 mutations, located upstream the gene encoding the lactase-phlorizin hydrolase (LPH), is a useful tool for the differential diagnosis of hypolactasia. We evaluated the frequencies of C/T-13910 and G/A-22018 variants in a central-south Italian population and the usefulness of lactase deficiency genetic testing in the clinic practice. The genomic DNA of 1426 patients and 1000 healthy controls from central-south Italy was isolated from peripheral whole blood and genotyped for the C/T-13910 and G/A-22018 polymorphisms by high-resolution melting analysis (HRMA) and sequencing. The frequencies of genotypes in the 1426 patients analysed were as follows: 1077 CC/GG (75.5%), 287 CT/GA (20.1%), 24 TT/AA (1.7%), 38 CC/GA (2.7%). Only 64 out of 1426 (4.5%) performed also L-BHT test, 29 of which were negative for L-BHT also in presence of different genotypes. Among the 35 individuals with L-BHT positive, 34 were CC/GG and only one CT/GA. Although lactose genetic test is a good predictor of persistence/non-persistence lactase in specific population, its use in the central-south Italy population should be limited given the high prevalence of the CCGG diplotype in normal individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Santonocito
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
| | - Margherita Scapaticci
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Guarino
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rosalia Lisci
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Romina Penitente
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Teaching Hospital "A. Gemelli," Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Capoluongo
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular and Personalized Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
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Concolino P, Costella A, Minucci A, Scaglione GL, Santonocito C, Salutari V, Scambia G, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. A preliminary Quality Control (QC) for next generation sequencing (NGS) library evaluation turns out to be a very useful tool for a rapid detection of BRCA1/2 deleterious mutations. Clin Chim Acta 2014; 437:72-7. [PMID: 25007954 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2014.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Revised: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent advances in next generation sequencing (NGS) technology have enabled comprehensive and accurate screening of the entire genomic region of BRCA1/2 genes and, to date, many studies report the effectiveness of these technologies. Here we show that Gene Scan (GS) labeling Quality Control (QC), performed before massive parallel pyrosequencing, coupled with Multiple Amplicon Quantification software (MAQ-S) analysis is a rapid and powerful tool in the detection of deleterious BRCA mutations carried by different patients. METHODS GS labeling QC assay was performed according to the manufacturers' instructions and MAQ-S software was employed for analysis results. RESULTS GS labeling QC was able to detect 14 different BRCA frameshift mutations in our patients. In addition, two novel BRCA mutations (c.1893_1894insTTAAGCCCACAAAT in BRCA1 gene and c.9413_9414insT in BRCA2 gene) were identified. CONCLUSION We prove that a simple QC step may represent a valid and useful tool for a rapid detection of frameshift mutations in BRCA genes. For this reason, we recommend using this approach before massive parallel sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Concolino
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Costella
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Minucci
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Scaglione
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Santonocito
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Vanda Salutari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuppi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Capoluongo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
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De Corso E, Baroni S, Battista M, Romanello M, Penitente R, Di Nardo W, Passali GC, Sergi B, Fetoni AR, Bussu F, Zuppi C, Paludetti G. Nasal fluid release of eotaxin-3 and eotaxin-2 in persistent sinonasal eosinophilic inflammation. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2014; 4:617-24. [PMID: 24989688 DOI: 10.1002/alr.21348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to measure eotaxin-3 (CCL26) and eotaxin-2 (CCL24) in nasal lavage fluid of patients with different forms of chronic sinonasal eosinophilic inflammation to evaluate their role in the pathophysiology of nasal hypereosinophilia. METHODS The study was an analytic cross-section study, level of evidence 3b. Patients (n = 80) with nasal hypereosinophilia were randomly recruited and grouped in the following categories: persistent allergic rhinitis (AR) (n = 25), nonallergic rhinitis with eosinophilia syndrome (NARES) (n = 30), and chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps (CRSwNP) (n = 25). Non-rhinitic volunteers (n = 20) were recruited as controls. CCL24 and CCL26 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) Quantikine Human Immunoassays (R&D Systems, Minneapolis, MN) in nasal lavage fluids. Differential cell counts were performed by microscopic cytological examination of nasal tissue scraped from the inferior turbinate. RESULTS Mean CCL26 levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in AR and in NARES (132.0 pg/mL and 187.63 pg/mL, respectively) than in the control group (13.5 pg/mL); in patients with CRSwNP, CCL26 values were increased compared to controls even though the difference was not statistically significant (58.9 pg/mL vs 16.5 pg/mL). Mean CCL24 levels measured in AR, NARES, and CRSwNP were significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to controls (96.7 pg/mL, 135.4 pg/mL, and 107.0 pg/mL, respectively, vs 32.2 pg/mL). Moreover, we observed a significant correlation between CCL24 and CCL26 levels, evaluating them intraindividually by Spearman's rank correlation test. Finally, a significant correlation was found between CCL24 and CCL26 levels and the percentage of eosinophilic infiltration of nasal mucosa. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that CCL26 and CCL24 are likely involved in the pathogenesis of chronic nasal hypereosinophilia, with a complex cooperation and different involvement of the various members of eotaxin family. Further studies are necessary to better understand the actual physiopathologic mechanism, possible clinical relevance, and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio De Corso
- Department Head and Neck Surgery-Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University School of Medicine and Surgery, Rome, Italy
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Minucci A, Canu G, Concolino P, Guarino D, Boccia S, Ficarra S, Zuppi C, Giardina B, Capoluongo E. DNA from buccal swab is suitable for rapid genotyping of angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism. Clin Chim Acta 2014; 431:125-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2013.12.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Capoluongo E, Zambon CF, Basso D, Boccia S, Rocchetti S, Leoncini E, Palumbo S, Padoan A, Albino G, Todaro A, Prayer-Galetti T, Zattoni F, Zuppi C, Plebani M. PCA3 score of 20 could improve prostate cancer detection: Results obtained on 734 Italian individuals. Clin Chim Acta 2014; 429:46-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2013.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Revised: 09/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Molinario R, Autilio C, Daloiso P, Pocino K, Colacicco L, Zuppi C, Antenucci M. Analytical performance of the new analyzer BA 400 Biosystems with LED technology. Clin Lab 2014; 60:1943-7. [DOI: 10.7754/clin.lab.2014.140312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Albino G, Vendittelli F, Paolillo C, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Potential usefulness of CTC detection in follow up of prostate cancer patients. A preliminary report obtained by using Adnagene platform. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 85:164-9. [PMID: 24399115 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2013.4.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prostate cancer (PCa) represents one of the most important medical problems for males, being the second major cause of cancer death. Routinely, PCa patients are followed up with both periodic evaluation of serum PSA levels and imaging. Recently, alternative laboratory methods were proposed for PCa patients' monitoring, with contrasting results. Aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of a new commercially CE-IVD kit for detection of prostate circulating tumour cells. Our intention was to verify the Adnagene platform usefulness to identify patients with disease progression, whatever treatment ongoing, in order to modify the therapeutic process even before treatment failure is evident with imaging methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-one patients were enrolled and subdivided into three groups: n = 10 high risk tumor PCa patients; n = 6 low risk PCa patients; n = 5 sbjects without any signs of PCa. AdnaTest Prostate Cancer kit was used for enrichment and molecular characterization of prostate circulating tumour cells. RESULTS Healthy subjects (with BPH) and patients without metastases resulted as negative, while 3 out of 10 high risk PCa patients were positive at least for one molecular marker like PSA, while only two showed positivity for PSMA mRNA. Our results indicate that the test specificity is 100% and the sensitivity is 100%; of course the sample is too small to give it statistical validity. In detail we verified that only the "not responder" patients resulted positive for AdnaTest. CONCLUSIONS The present preliminary report provides evidence that isolation and detection of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) is feasible and it may be useful in the follow-up of patients with advanced prostate cancer. If the results of this preliminary study would be confirmed by a large prospective cohort study, it could be demonstrated that this test is a rapid diagnostic method, based on the analysis of a blood sample and useful to the clinician to decide when to change therapy for patients resistant to castration or able to confirm that, at that time, the therapy is effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Albino
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome.
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Torino F, Bonmassar E, Bonmassar L, De Vecchis L, Barnabei A, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E, Aquino A. Circulating tumor cells in colorectal cancer patients. Cancer Treat Rev 2013; 39:759-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2012.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Costa S, Giannantonio C, Romagnoli C, Vento G, Gervasoni J, Persichilli S, Zuppi C, Cota F. Effects of lutein supplementation on biological antioxidant status in preterm infants: a randomized clinical trial. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2013; 26:1311-5. [DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2013.783801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Paragliola RM, Concolino P, De Rosa A, Mello E, Zuppi C, Pontecorvi A, Capoluongo E, Corsello SM. The first case of association between postpartum thyroiditis and thyroid hormone resistance in an Italian patient showing a novel p.V283A THRB mutation. Thyroid 2013; 23:506-10. [PMID: 23134553 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2012.0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum thyroiditis (PPT) is characterized by the development of postpartum thyroid dysfunction, which may occur up to 12 months after delivery. The syndrome usually presents with transient thyrotoxicosis, followed by transient hypothyroidism. The association of this condition with resistance to thyroid hormones (RTH) has never been described. PATIENT FINDINGS In this report, we describe a 30-year-old patient affected by RTH due to a novel p.V283A thyroid hormone receptor-β (THRB) heterozygous mutation in exon 8, which affects the ligand-binding domain, never before described in literature. A simple polymorphism was excluded through screening of 100 healthy controls. SUMMARY The patient became pregnant twice (in 2008 and in 2009) and developed PPT after both deliveries. Two months after her first pregnancy and one month after her second pregnancy, she presented with severe endogenous thyrotoxicosis and concomitant suppressed thyrotropin (TSH) levels, which represents an unusual finding in patients affected by RTH. Other causes of hyperthyroidism were excluded. After the hyperthyroid phase, she became hypothyroid (TSH >75 mU/L and low free-thyroxine and free-tri-iodothyronine levels), and eventually returned to her usual euthyroid status. During the course of PPT, no specific treatment was required, except for β-blockers used to treat tachycardia during the hyperthyroid phase. CONCLUSIONS We report a unique case of a woman affected by RTH, due to a novel mutation V283A in THRB, who experienced PPT with a severe thyrotoxic phase after both her pregnancies. The association between RTH and PPT has never been reported in the literature. In particular, the marked suppression of TSH occurring when levels of TH are particularly elevated is not a frequent condition during RTH.
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Canu G, Minucci A, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Gilbert and Crigler Najjar syndromes: an update of the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) gene mutation database. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2013; 50:273-80. [PMID: 23403257 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2013.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
UGT1A1 enzyme defects are responsible of both Gilbert syndrome (GS) and Crigler-Najjar syndrome (CNS). GS depends on a variant TATAA element (which contains two extra TA nucleotides as compared to the wild type genotype) in the UGT1A1 gene promoter resulting in a reduced gene expression. On the contrary, CNS forms are classified in two types depending on serum total bilirubin concentrations (STBC): the more severe (CNS-I) is characterized by high levels of STBC (342-684μmol/L), due to total deficiency of the UGT1A1 enzyme, while the milder one, namely CNS-II, is characterized by partial UGT1A1 deficiency with STBC ranging from 103 to 342μmol/L. GS and CNS are caused by genetic lesions involving a complex locus encoding the UGT1A1 gene. The present report provides an update of all reported UGT1A1 gene mutations associated to GS and CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Canu
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Italy
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Minucci A, Canu G, Gentile L, Zuppi C, Giardina B, Capoluongo E. Small amplicons high resolution melting analysis (SA-HRMA) allows successful genotyping of acid phosphatase 1 (ACP1) polymorphisms in the Italian population. Clin Chim Acta 2012. [PMID: 23201490 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2012.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ACP1 gene, encoding a low-molecular-weight phosphotyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP), has been suggested as a common genetic factor of several human diseases, including inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, favism and tumors. For this reason, the ACP1 enzyme has been investigated by case-control studies for decades. Initially based on protein electrophoresis, the ACP1 phenotype is now determined by DNA-based techniques. METHODS Here, we report a rapid optimized method which employs HRMA for ACP1 polymorphism identification, a molecular approach that we used to screen 80 healthy Italian subjects. RESULTS HRMA proved particularly suitable for detecting ACP1 genotypes. In fact, HRMA results were 100% concordant with direct sequencing. In addition, ACP1 genotype frequency in the Italian population was in accordance with the literature [4% (*A/A), 36% (*A/B), 4% (*A/C), 50% (*B/B), 6% (*B/C)]. CONCLUSIONS HRMA was found to be a simple, rapid, sensitive and low cost method potentially useful in research and diagnostic laboratories. Finally, use of small amplicons for the set-up allowed us a better optimization of HRMA. For this reason, we present such an approach as small amplicons high resolution melting analysis (SA-HRMA). Finally, ACP1 genotype frequency in the Italian population reported in this study may contribute to a better interpretation of ACP1 allelic frequency variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Minucci
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Diagnostics, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Italy.
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Carrozza C, Lapolla R, Gervasoni J, Rota CA, Locantore P, Pontecorvi A, Zuppi C, Persichilli S. Assessment of salivary free cortisol levels by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in patients treated with mitotane. Hormones (Athens) 2012; 11:344-9. [PMID: 22908067 DOI: 10.14310/horm.2002.1363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mitotane is an adrenocytolytic agent used in adrenocortical carcinoma, inducing adrenal insufficiency, requiring replacement treatment. Such therapy is not easy to monitor because of mitotane interference. Salivary cortisol reflects a free fraction of plasma cortisol and may be useful in such patients. DESIGN The aim of our study was to evaluate salivary cortisol by HPLC coupled to tandem-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and by an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) in patients treated with mitotane. We enrolled 6 patients receiving mitotane and 2 Addison disease patients as negative controls and determined salivary cortisol rhythm. We also determined the salivary cortisol rhythm in 8 healthy subjects. Salivary samples (n=112) were assayed by ECLIA, using Roche Modular E170, and by LC-MS/MS. RESULTS The mean values obtained by ECLIA were significantly higher than those obtained by LC-MS/MS in the mitotane group (p<0.001). In fact, in the group measured by LC-MS/MS, we observed several peaks eluting at a retention time different from the cortisol group, presumably due to cortisol-like analogues. In Addison disease, since steroidogenesis is absent, salivary cortisol values measured by the two methods did not show any significant difference (p=0.61). CONCLUSIONS Salivary cortisol measured by LC-MS/MS is a selective method, excluding cortisol analogues accumulating in treated patients. Therefore, LC-MS/MS offers an effective system to monitor replacement therapy in mitotane treated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Carrozza
- Institute of Biochemestry and Clinical Biochemestry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy.
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Milardi D, Grande G, Giampietro A, Vendittelli F, Palumbo S, Tartaglione L, Marana R, Pontecorvi A, de Marinis L, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Circulating Endothelial Cells as Marker of Endothelial Damage in Male Hypogonadism. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 33:1291-7. [DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.112.016600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Minucci A, Gentile L, Zuppi C, Giardina B, Capoluongo E. Rapid and simple identification of the commonest glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) Italian mutations: From DNA extraction to genotyping. Clin Chim Acta 2012; 413:1018-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2012.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2012] [Revised: 01/27/2012] [Accepted: 01/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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De Luca D, Minucci A, Trias J, Tripodi D, Conti G, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Varespladib Inhibits Secretory Phospholipase A2 in Bronchoalveolar Lavage of Different Types of Neonatal Lung Injury. J Clin Pharmacol 2012; 52:729-737. [DOI: 10.1177/0091270011405498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
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Capoluongo E, Concolino P, Piccardi M, Marangoni D, Mello E, Minnella AM, Savastano C, Fadda A, Zuppi C, Bisti S, Falsini B. Retinal function and CFH-ARMS2 polymorphisms analysis: a pilot study in Italian AMD patients. Neurobiol Aging 2012; 33:1852.e5-12. [PMID: 22552255 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Revised: 03/09/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Two major susceptibility genes, complement factor H (CFH) and age-related maculopathy susceptibility 2 (ARMS2), have been implicated in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pathogenesis. We analyzed the association between CFH rs1061170 and/or ARMS2 rs10490924 polymorphisms with central retinal function properties, as evaluated by focal electroretinogram (fERG). Forty early AMD patients, with preserved visual acuity and typical macular lesions, underwent fERG recording (in response to 41 Hz flicker stimuli presented to the central 18 degrees) and CFH/ARMS2 genotyping. Mean fERG amplitude and sensitivity decreased in patients carrying CFH rs1061170 polymorphism (p < 0.01), compared with wild type ones, although visual acuity and funduscopic features were similar across the 2 groups. No significant fERG phase changes were observed. No association was detected between ARMS2 (rs10490924) polymorphism and fERG parameters. Our findings indicate that CFH (rs1061170) polymorphism impacts significantly on retinal function in early AMD patients, and support the hypothesis that dysfunctional CFH might result in early retinal function loss due to a reduction in the immune antioxidant defense mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Capoluongo
- Istituto di Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del S Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Concolino P, Mello E, Patrosso MC, Penco S, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. p.H282N and p.Y191H: 2 novel CYP21A2 mutations in Italian congenital adrenal hyperplasia patients. Metabolism 2012; 61:519-24. [PMID: 22014889 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2011.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2011] [Revised: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
More than 90% of all cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) result from steroid 21-hydroxylase gene (CYP21A2) mutations. The CYP21A2 gene is located in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class III region on the short arm of chromosome 6p21.3, along with an inactive pseudogene, CYP21A1P, that is 98% homologous in its coding sequence with CYP21A2. Most CYP21A2 mutations result from intergenic recombinations between CYP21A2 and the closely linked CYP21A1P pseudogene. Rare mutations not generated by gene conversion account for only 5% to 10% of 21-hydroxylase deficiency alleles. However, detection of these rare and spontaneous mutations has continued to expand worldwide. We identified 2 novel CYP21A2 missense mutations (p.H282N and p.Y191H) in 2 Italian patients with simple-virilizing and nonclassic CAH forms. Functional analysis of these CYP21A2 mutations was performed. Functional in vitro assay for mutagenized CYP21A2 enzymes was performed in transiently transfected mammalian cells to test the residual enzyme activity and the apparent kinetic values. The residual activities obtained allowed us to classify the p.H282N and p.Y191H variants as simple-virilizing and nonclassic CAH associated mutations, respectively. These results correlate with the rate of severity of the patients' disease. This finding provides a further contribution for assisting in the diagnosis of CAH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Concolino
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
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Raffaelli M, De Crea C, Carrozza C, D’Amato G, Zuppi C, Bellantone R, Lombardi CP. Combining Early Postoperative Parathyroid Hormone and Serum Calcium Levels Allows for an Efficacious Selective Post-thyroidectomy Supplementation Treatment. World J Surg 2012; 36:1307-13. [DOI: 10.1007/s00268-012-1556-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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De Santis M, Bosello SL, Capoluongo E, Inzitari R, Peluso G, Lulli P, Zizzo G, Bocci M, Tolusso B, Zuppi C, Castagnola M, Ferraccioli G. A vascular endothelial growth factor deficiency characterises scleroderma lung disease. Ann Rheum Dis 2012; 71:1461-5. [PMID: 22402140 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2011-200657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is thought to play an important role in systemic sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis. It was found to be upregulated in the serum and in the affected skin of scleroderma patients. However, its involvement in scleroderma lung disease is not clear. This study aimed to evaluate VEGF concentration in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of scleroderma patients with interstitial lung disease, to correlate the cytokine levels in plasma and in the lung with pulmonary functional, radiological and cellular parameters, and with the progression of lung disease. METHODS BALF and plasma VEGF concentrations were analysed by ELISA in 55 SSc patients with lung disease and 17 controls. Cytokine real-time PCR messenger RNA expression in alveolar macrophages was assessed. Lung involvement progression was evaluated after a 1-year follow-up. RESULTS VEGF was found to be significantly lower in the BALF of scleroderma patients compared with controls. The lowest concentrations were observed in SSc patients with alveolitis. A decreased VEGF expression in alveolar macrophages was found in SSc patients with alveolitis. VEGF concentration in BALF correlated inversely with the ground glass score on high-resolution CT and with BALF neutrophil cell count. Moreover, SSc patients with a lower VEGF concentration showed a worsening in the interstitial score at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Scleroderma interstitial lung disease is characterised by a VEGF deficiency. Lower concentrations were found in patients with progression of lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria De Santis
- Correspondence to Gianfranco Ferraccioli, Catholic University, Institute of Rheumatology and Affine Sciences, Rome 00168, Italy
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Bossola M, Vulpio C, Colacicco L, Scribano D, Zuppi C, Tazza L. Reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs) are associated with cardiovascular disease in chronic hemodialysis patients. Clin Chem Lab Med 2012; 50:1447-53. [PMID: 22868812 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2011-0775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of our study was to measure reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs) in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients and evaluate the possible association with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. METHODS We measured ROMs in 76 HD patients and correlated with CVD, cardiovascular (CV) events in the follow-up and all-cause and CVD-related mortality. RESULTS The levels of ROMs presented a median value of 270 (238.2-303.2) CARR U (interquartile range). We created a ROC curve (ROMs levels vs. CVD) and we identified a cut-off point of 273 CARR U. Patients with ROMs levels ≥273 CARR U were significantly older, had higher C-reactive protein levels and lower creatinine concentrations. The prevalence of CVD was higher in patients with ROMs levels ≥273 (87.1%) than in those with ROMs levels <273 CARR U (17.7%; p<0.0001). ROMs levels were significantly higher in patients with CVD (317±63.8) than in those without (242.7±49.1; p<0.0001). At multiple regression analysis, age, creatinine and C-reactive protein were independent factors associated with ROMs. At multiple logistic regression analysis the association between ROMs and CVD was independent (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00-1.05; p=0.03). Twenty six patients developed cardiovascular (CV) events during the follow-up. Of these, seven were in the group with ROMs levels <273 CARR U and 19 in the group with ROMs levels ≥273 CARR U. The logistic regression analysis showed that both age (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01-1.12; p=0.013) and ROMs levels (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.00-1.02; p=0.045) were independently associated with CV events in the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS ROMs are independently associated with CVD and predict CV events in chronic HD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Bossola
- Hemodialysis Service, Department of Surgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
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Mello E, Falsini B, Zuppi C, Giardina B, Concolino P, Capoluongo E. Rapid detection of CFH (p.Y402H) and ARMS2 (p.A69S) polymorphisms in age-related macular degeneration using high-resolution melting analysis. Clin Chem Lab Med 2012; 50:1031-4. [PMID: 22706242 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2011-0859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex disorder causing irreversible central vision loss. Complement Factor H (CFH) and age-related maculopathy susceptibility 2 (ARMS2) are now widely accepted as important AMD susceptibility genes. In particular, two specific variants, CFH p.Y402H and ARMS2 p.A69S, have been reported as strongly AMD associated. In order to perform the genetic screening of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we describe a high resolution melting analysis (HRM) as a rapid closed tube mutation scanning assay. METHODS To validate HRM genotyping, 94 DNA samples from AMD patients (previously genotyped by sequence analysis) were analyzed. PCR amplification and melting curve analysis were performed in the LightCycler 480 Real-Time PCR System. In order to evaluate the accuracy of the HRM assay, we performed a blinded study of 20 unknown independent samples. RESULTS We correctly genotyped all samples. In fact, all samples corresponded to the previous genotype assignments. CONCLUSIONS Early identification of individuals with genetic risk variants CFH p.Y402H and ARMS2 p.A69S is clinically important for the definition of AMD status. High-resolution DNA melting is homogenous, accurate and rapid method for CFH and ARMS2 genotyping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Mello
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
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Vendittelli F, Raffaelli M, Fadda G, Carelli-Alinovi C, Paolillo C, Bellantone R, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Blood presence of circulating oncofetal fibronectin mRNA, by RT-PCR, does not represent a useful specific marker for the management and follow-up of thyroid cancer patients. Clin Chem Lab Med 2012; 50:715-20. [PMID: 22505562 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2011-0848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies strongly suggest the use of oncofetal fibronectin (onfFN) mRNA in diagnostic follow-up and staging due to its very high specificity for thyroid cancers. Since the use of this marker has not been well established yet, particularly in the monitoring of minimal residual disease, we have tried to verify the diagnostic power of onfFN and its usefulness as a prognostic molecular marker. For this reason, we evaluated (by RT-PCR) the presence of onfFN mRNAs, not only in blood samples and thyroid tissues (both normal and neoplastic), but also in different biological fluids (such as K3-EDTA blood samples, saliva and urine) belonging to healthy individuals. METHODS Molecular investigations, such as RT-PCR protocol, and sequencing of onfFN cDNAs evaluation of the above-mentioned samples were performed. RESULTS The onfFN transcript was largely expressed in all benign and malignant thyroid tissues [differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTCs)] tested as well as in a large number of biological fluids; in particular, 100% urine samples were positive for onfFN transcript as compared to the thyroglobulin (Tg) mRNA (75%), while saliva was always positive for onfFN and never for Tg. These findings indicate that onfFN cannot be considered a marker specific for thyroid cancer presence. Finally, Tg results were positive in a large part of the samples, but not always in concomitance with onfFN. CONCLUSIONS We underline how the complexity of onfFN transcripts could affect the RT-PCR procedure. In addition, the presence of onfFN transcripts in several normal and cancer tissues, along with non-thyroid biological fluids or cells, does not allow the use of this marker for cancer monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Vendittelli
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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Carrozza C, Persichilli S, Canu G, Gervasoni J, Torti E, Tazza L, Zuppi C. Measurement of 25-hydroxyvitamin vitamin D by liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry with comparison to automated immunoassays. Clin Chem Lab Med 2012; 50:2033-5. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2012-0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Persichilli S, Gervasoni J, Castagnola M, Zuppi C, Zappacosta B. A Reversed-Phase HPLC Fluorimetric Method for Simultaneous Determination of Homocysteine-Related Thiols in Different Body Fluids. Lab Med 2011. [DOI: 10.1309/lmoiah19rg5bkbiq] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
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Minucci A, Mello E, Tripodi D, Concolino P, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. High Resolution Melting Analysis (HRMA) for the identification of a rare UGT1A1 promoter polymorphism. Clin Biochem 2011; 44:1359-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.08.1130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 08/11/2011] [Accepted: 08/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Milardi D, Grande G, Capoluongo E, Giampietro A, Bianchi A, Vendittelli F, Marana R, Pontecorvi A, Zuppi C, De Marinis L. Effect of male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism on circulating endothelial cells. Journal of Men's Health 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jomh.2011.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Gervasoni J, Bonelli F, Zuppi C, Zappacosta B, Mordente A, Calvani R, Persichilli S. Determination of asymmetric dimethyl arginine in human serum by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry: clinical application in hypertensive subjects. Clin Chem Lab Med 2011; 49:2109-15. [PMID: 21892910 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2011.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous competitive inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase plays an important role in endothelial dysfunction processes. Recent studies have linked high ADMA levels with several pathological conditions. The interest as a marker of endothelial dysfunction has increased in the last few years. In this paper, a method for serum ADMA quantification by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry has been described. To test the utility in a pathological condition ADMA levels in hypertensive subjects have been measured. METHODS HPLC separation was performed by hydrophilic interaction chromatography using acetonitrile/water containing 0.1% formic acid and 20 mmol/L ammonium formate. Selected reaction monitoring was performed following the transitions m/z 203.1→46.4 for ADMA and 210.1→46.3 for the internal standard [2H7]ADMA. RESULTS The method was linear up to 10 μmol/L, limit of detection and limit of quantification were 0.005 μmol/L and 0.01 μmol/L, respectively. Recovery was higher than 96%. Intra- and inter-assay imprecision were lower than 6%. The accuracy, expressed as bias %, was <2.5. ADMA in "healthy" subjects ranged from 0.343 to 0.608 μmol/L and resulted significantly lower than that measured in hypertensive subjects (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The method developed is selective and sensitive, thus suitable not only for research purposes, but also for routinely work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Gervasoni
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Universita` Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
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Minucci A, Ricerca BM, Tripodi D, Matarazzo L, De Michele T, Giardina B, Zuppi C, Capoluongo E. Worsening of the clinical-hematological picture in a patient with a rare PK-LR compound heterozygosis after mitral replacement. Clin Biochem 2011; 44:1261-3. [PMID: 21821016 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We report a case of a patient affected by compound heterozygosis for two PK-LR gene mutations: p.R486W (c.1456C>T) and p.M403I (c.1209G>A). Our patient suffered from an initial moderate hemolytic anemia which subsequently evolved into a severe form after mitral prosthetic valve replacement for valve regurgitation. Thereafter, the clinical features evolved into a worsening of anemia, heart failure and pulmonary hypertension, in the absence of valve dysfunction. This clinical picture improved only after an intensive transfusion regimen. This case highlights aspects concerning the intricate balance between the risks and benefits of a mechanical prosthetic valve implant in PK-deficient patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Minucci
- Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
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