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Conti BJ, Santiago KB, Cardoso EO, Conte FL, Golim MA, Cruz MT, Sforcin JM. Effect of propolis on Th2 and Th17 cells: interplay with EtxB- and LPS-treated dendritic cells. Braz J Med Biol Res 2023; 56:e12659. [PMID: 37075347 PMCID: PMC10125804 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2023e12659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells that drive the differentiation of T CD4+ cells into different profiles according to the nature of the antigen or immunomodulator. Propolis is a resinous product made by bees that has numerous pharmacological properties, including an immunomodulatory action. To assess whether propolis can modulate the activation of CD4+ T cells by stimulating DCs with heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (EtxB) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms affected by propolis in the differential activation of T lymphocytes. Cell viability, lymphocyte proliferation, gene expression (GATA-3 and RORc), and cytokine production (interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-17A) were analyzed. Propolis, EtxB, and LPS induced a higher lymphoproliferation compared with the control. Propolis induced GATA-3 expression and, in combination with EtxB, maintained the baseline levels. Propolis alone or in combination with LPS inhibited RORc expression. EtxB alone and in combination with propolis increased IL-4 production. Propolis in combination with LPS prevented LPS-induced IL-17A production. These results opened perspectives for the study of biological events that may be favored by propolis by promoting Th2 activation or helping in the treatment of inflammatory conditions mediated by Th17 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Conti
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - K B Santiago
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - E O Cardoso
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - F L Conte
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - M A Golim
- Hemocentro de Botucatu, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Center for Neurosciences and Cellular Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J M Sforcin
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
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Vaz CV, Oliveira AS, Silva A, Cortes L, Correia S, Ferreira R, Breitenfeld L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Pereira CF, Cruz MT, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A. Protective role of Portuguese natural mineral waters on skin aging: in vitro evaluation of anti-senescence and anti-oxidant properties. Int J Biometeorol 2022; 66:2117-2131. [PMID: 35994120 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-022-02345-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Natural mineral waters (NMWs) emerge from the earth as springs and their beneficial therapeutic effect has been empirically recognized in different countries. Portugal has diverse NMW resources that are sought for the relief of different afflictions including dermatological complications. However, there is a lack of scientific validation supporting this empiric knowledge. In this study, we aimed to screen the in vitro bioactivity of Portuguese NMWs with different chemical profiles, namely sulfurous/bicarbonate/sodic (SBS), bicarbonate/magnesium, sulfated/calcic, sulfurous/chlorinated/sodic, sulfurous/bicarbonate/fluoridated/sodic, and chlorinated/sodic, focusing on aging-related skin alterations. Mouse skin fibroblasts and macrophages were exposed to culture medium prepared in different NMWs. Cellular viability was evaluated by MTT assay and etoposide-induced senescence was analyzed through the beta-galactosidase staining kit. Wound healing was investigated by the scratch assay, and phototoxicity/photoprotection after UVA irradiation was evaluated using a neutral red solution. ROS production was quantified using the 2'7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate dye, and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was analyzed by a commercial kit after lipopolysaccharide exposure. NMWs within the SBS profile demonstrated anti-senescence activity in skin fibroblasts, along with a variable effect on cellular viability. Among the tested NMWs, two decreased cellular senescence and preserved cell viability and were therefore selected for subsequent studies, together with a SBS NMW with therapeutic indications for dermatologic diseases. Overall, the selected NMW promoted wound healing in skin fibroblasts and activated SOD in macrophages, thus suggesting an anti-oxidant effect. None of the NMWs prevented phototoxicity after UV irradiation. Our results shed a light on the anti-aging potential of Portuguese NMW, supporting their putative application in cosmetic or medical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Vaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - A S Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - L Cortes
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Correia
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - L Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - J Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C F Pereira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal.
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Silva A, Oliveira AS, Vaz CV, Correia S, Ferreira R, Breitenfeld L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Pereira CMF, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A, Cruz MT. Anti-inflammatory potential of Portuguese thermal waters. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22313. [PMID: 33339881 PMCID: PMC7749128 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79394-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In light of Medical Hydrology, thermal waters (TW) are all-natural mineral waters that emerge inside a thermal resort and have therapeutic applications. Their beneficial effect has been empirically recognized for centuries, being indicated for symptom alleviation and/or treatment of several diseases, almost all associated with inflammation. Indeed, an anti-inflammatory effect has been attributed to many different Portuguese TW but there is no scientific validation supporting this empiric knowledge. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of 14 TW pertaining to thermal centers located in the Central Region of Portugal, and grouped according to their ionic profile. Mouse macrophage cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a Toll-like receptor 4 agonist, were exposed to culture medium prepared in TW. Metabolism, nitric oxide (NO) production, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression levels and the scavenging capacity of TW, were investigated in vitro. 11 out of 14 TW reduced NO production and/or iNOS expression, and/or scavenging activity, in macrophages exposed to LPS. The sulphated/calcic TW did not show any effect on at least one of the inflammatory parameters evaluated. Two sulphurous/bicarbonate/sodic TW and the sulphurous/chlorinated/sodic TW promoted an increase in NO production and/or iNOS expression. Our results validate, for the first time, the anti-inflammatory properties of Portuguese TW, supporting their therapeutic use in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases and promoting their putative application in cosmetic products and medical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Polo I, 1st Floor, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Faculty of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Polo 3, IBILI 3rd Floor, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - A S Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C V Vaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - S Correia
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - L Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - J Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - R Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - C M F Pereira
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Labfit-Health Products Research and Development Lda, Ubimedical, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Polo I, 1st Floor, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Alves-Silva JM, Zuzarte M, Gonçalves MJ, Cruz MT, Cavaleiro C, Salgueiro L. Unveiling the bioactive potential of the essential oil of a Portuguese endemism, Santolina impressa. J Ethnopharmacol 2019; 244:112120. [PMID: 31352022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Santolina species are widely used in traditional medicine in the Mediterranean region for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, digestive, and analgesic properties. S. impressa, a Portuguese endemism, is traditionally recognized for its beneficial anti-inflammatory properties in several gastrointestinal affections and is also used in oropharyngeal infections. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study aims to characterize the essential oil of S. impressa growing in Portugal and validate its traditional uses by assessing the anti-inflammatory potential of its essential oil at concentrations without toxicity. The antifungal properties of the oil are also addressed, as well as, the putative mechanism of action underlying these effects. MATERIAL AND METHODS The essential oil was obtained in accordance with the European Pharmacopoeia and characterized by GC and GC-MS. The anti-inflammatory potential of the oil was assessed on LPS-stimulated macrophages, through the production of nitric oxide (NO) using the Griess reaction. Putative mechanisms of action included the role of the oil as a NO scavenger, as well as its effect on the expression of two key pro-inflammatory enzymes, iNOS and COX-2 by Western blot analysis. The antifungal effect of the oil was evaluated according to the CLSI guidelines on several yeast and filamentous strains and on two major virulence factors in Candida albicans, namely germ tubes and biofilms. Ultrastructural modifications on dermatophytes were also unveiled by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS S. impressa essential oil was primarily characterized by the presence of monoterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated monoterpenes, being the main compounds β-pinene (22.5%), 1,8-cineole (10.0%), limonene (9.1%), camphor (8.1%) and β-phellandrene (8.0%). A significant decrease (ca 60.0%) in nitrite levels was observed in LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with the oil without affecting cell viability. This effect could be explained by a great reduction on iNOS expression (85.0% inhibition), thus underpinning the anti-inflammatory potential of the oil. The oil also showed a fungicidal effect, being more active against Cryptococcus neoformans, Epidermophyton floccosum and Trichophytum rubrum. For these dermatophytes, significant ultrastructural modifications in cell wall structure were detected. Strikingly, for C. albicans, the oil showed a significant anti-infective potential (at 0.07 mg/mL for germ tube inhibition and 0.02 mg/mL for biofilm disruption) before fungal growth inhibition occurred. CONCLUSIONS Our results validate the main traditional use ascribed to S. impressa, namely its anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, an antifungal potential is pointed out, thus corroborating the antimicrobial uses and adding new value to an endemic species poorly recognized by the industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Alves-Silva
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M Zuzarte
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M J Gonçalves
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M T Cruz
- CNC.IBILI, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - C Cavaleiro
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - L Salgueiro
- CIEPQPF and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de S. Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Matos P, Figueirinha A, Paranhos A, Nunes F, Cruz P, Geraldes CFGC, Cruz MT, Batista MT. Bioactivity of Acanthus mollis - Contribution of benzoxazinoids and phenylpropanoids. J Ethnopharmacol 2018; 227:198-205. [PMID: 30201231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Acanthus mollis is a plant native to the Mediterranean region, traditionally used as diuretic, anti-inflammatory and soothing of the mucous membranes of the digestive and urinary tract and externally as healing of wounds and burns, also demonstrating analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. However, studies focused on its phytochemical composition as well as scientific proof of Acanthus mollis efficacy are scarce. AIM OF THE STUDY The proposed work aims to perform a phytochemical characterization and evaluation of the therapeutic potential of Acanthus mollis, based on biological properties that support its traditional uses. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this study, an 96% ethanol extract from Acanthus mollis leaves was obtained and its phytochemical composition evaluated using High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detector coupled to Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSn). The chemical structure of the compound isolated was elucidated using 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), 1H-correlation spectroscopy (1H-COSY), heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) and heteronuclear multiple-bond correlation (HMBC). The quantification of the constituents was performed using two external standards (2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one and verbascoside). The antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined measuring the inhibition of nitric oxide production by RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and through lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition assay. The cytotoxicity was screened on two lines (RAW 264.7 and HaCaT) using the resazurin assay. RESULTS Compounds such as verbascoside and its derivatives, as well as benzoxazinoids were found as the main constituents. A percentage of 5.58% was verified for the 2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIBOA) derivatives. DIBOA was the main compound of the extract. Significant concentrations were also found for phenylpropanoids, which constitute about 4.39% of the total compounds identified. This extract showed antioxidant capacity against DPPH (IC50 = 40.00 ± 1.59 μg/mL) and superoxide anion (IC50 = 29.42 ± 1.99 μg/mL). It also evidenced anti-inflammatory potential in RAW 264.7 macrophages, presenting capacity for nitric oxide reduction (IC50 = 28.01 μg/mL). Moreover, in vitro studies have shown that this extract was able to inhibit the lipoxygenase, with an IC50 of 104.39 ± 4.95 µg/mL. Importantly, all effective concentrations were devoid of cytotoxicity in keratinocytes, thus highlighting the safety of the extract for the treatment of skin inflammatory related diseases. Concerning macrophages it was also possible to disclose concentrations showing anti-inflammatory activity and without cytotoxicity (up to 30 µg/mL). The benzoxazinoid DIBOA demonstrated a considerable anti-inflammatory activity suggesting its important contribution to this activity. CONCLUSIONS These results corroborate the anti-inflammatory properties traditionally attributed to this plant. Among the compounds identified in this study, benzoxazinoids exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity that was never previously described. Ethanol seems to be a good option for the extraction of these bioactive compounds, since relevant antioxidant/anti-radical and anti-inflammatory activities were found for this extract.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Matos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Figueirinha
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - A Paranhos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - F Nunes
- Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - P Cruz
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - C F G C Geraldes
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-393 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Batista
- Center for Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
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Abu-Darwish MS, Cabral C, Gonçalves MJ, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Paoli M, Tomi F, Efferth T, Salgueiro L. Ziziphora tenuior L. essential oil from Dana Biosphere Reserve (Southern Jordan); Chemical characterization and assessment of biological activities. J Ethnopharmacol 2016; 194:963-970. [PMID: 27815078 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.10.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE Ziziphora tenuior L. (Lamiaceae) is a medicinal plant in Jordan, which is included in various antimicrobial, antiseptic, expectorant and wound healing preparations. It is used for the treatment of cough, stomach ache, dysentery, fever, uterus infection, gut inflammation and painful menstruation. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to assess, for the first time, the chemical composition of the essential oil of Z. tenuior originated from southern Jordan and its antifungal effects against several yeasts. Concomitantly, the mechanisms behind the anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans were also disclosed. Since the Z. tenuior traditional uses are related with inflammatory-associated conditions, the putative anti-inflammatory activity of the oil was also unveiled. Importantly, the potential toxicity of pharmacologically active concentrations was screened in different types of mammalian cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS Z. tenuior essential oil, isolated by hydrodistillation, was analyzed by gas chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Antifungal activity was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophytes and Aspergillus strains. Germ tube inhibition and biofilm formation assays were evaluated using C. albicans. Assessment of cell viability was made by the MTT assay using different types of mammalian cells, including hepatocytes, keratinocytes and macrophages. The in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of the oil was evaluated by measuring nitric oxide production using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated mouse macrophages. RESULTS Oxygen-containing monoterpenes are the main oil compounds: pulegone (46.8%), p-menth-3-en-8-ol (12.5%), isomenthone (6.6%) and 8-hydroxymenthone (6.2%). The highest antifungal activity was against Cryptococcus neoformans, with a MIC value of 0.16µL/mL. The oil revealed an important inhibitory effect on germ tube formation with a filamentation inhibition rate higher than 80% at 0.16µL/mL. The amount of the attached biomass was reduced. Importantly, concentrations devoid of toxicity on several mammalian cell types still displayed anti-inflammatory activity (0.16 and 0.32µL/mL). CONCLUSIONS These findings add significant information to the pharmacological activity of Z. tenuior, thus justifying and reinforcing the use of this plant in traditional medicine. Additionally, the antifungal and anti-inflammatory potential of the oil at non-toxic concentrations, opens new avenues for its further exploitation, for instance in health-care product development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Abu-Darwish
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences, Shouback University College/ Maan College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt 19117, Jordan; Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - C Cabral
- CNC.IBILI/ Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - M J Gonçalves
- CNC.IBILI/ Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - C Cavaleiro
- CNC.IBILI/ Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- CNC.IBILI/ Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M Paoli
- Université de Corse-CNRS, UMR 6134 SPE, Equipe Chimie et Biomasse, 20000 Ajaccio, France
| | - F Tomi
- Université de Corse-CNRS, UMR 6134 SPE, Equipe Chimie et Biomasse, 20000 Ajaccio, France
| | - T Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - L Salgueiro
- CNC.IBILI/ Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de S. Comba 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
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Martins JD, Silva A, Ferreira I, Gonçalo M, Custódio JBA, Lopes MC, Domingues MRM, Neves BM, Cruz MT. Adenosine diphosphate involvement in THP-1 maturation triggered by the contact allergen 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2016; 5:1512-1521. [PMID: 30090452 PMCID: PMC6060794 DOI: 10.1039/c6tx00240d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells' (DC) activation is considered a key event in the adverse outcome pathway for skin sensitization elicited by covalent binding of chemicals to proteins. The mechanisms underlying DC activation by contact sensitizers are not completely understood. However, several "danger signals" are pointed as relevant effectors. Among these extra-cellular early danger signals, purines may be crucial for the development of xenoinflammation and several reports indicate their involvement in contact allergic reactions. In the present work we used the DC-surrogate monocytic cell line THP-1, cultured alone or co-cultured with the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT, to explore the contribution of extracellular adenine nucleotides to THP-1 maturation triggered by the extreme contact sensitizer, 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNFB). We found that THP-1 maturation induced by DNFB is impaired after purinergic signaling inhibition, and that the transcription of the purinergic metabotropic receptors P2Y2 and P2Y11 is modulated by the sensitizer. We also detected that THP-1 cells only partially hydrolyse extracellular adenosine triphosphate, leading to accumulation of the mono-phosphate derivative, AMP. We detected different and non-overlapping activation patterns of mitogen activated protein kinases by DNFB and extracellular nucleotides. Overall, our results indicate that THP-1 maturation induced by DNFB is strongly modulated by extracellular adenine nucleotides through metabotropic purinergic receptors. This knowledge unveils a molecular toxicity pathway evoked by sensitizers and involved in THP-1 maturation, a DC-surrogate cell line thoroughly used in in vitro tests for the identification of skin allergens.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Martins
- Faculty of Pharmacy University of Coimbra , 3000-548 Coimbra , Portugal . ; ; ; Tel: +351 239 480 209
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - A Silva
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - I Ferreira
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - M Gonçalo
- Department of Dermatology , University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine , University of Coimbra , 3000-075 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - J B A Custódio
- Faculty of Pharmacy University of Coimbra , 3000-548 Coimbra , Portugal . ; ; ; Tel: +351 239 480 209
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - M C Lopes
- Faculty of Pharmacy University of Coimbra , 3000-548 Coimbra , Portugal . ; ; ; Tel: +351 239 480 209
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - M R M Domingues
- Department of Chemistry , Mass Spectrometry Center , QOPNA , University of Aveiro , Campus Universitário de Santiago , 3810-193 Aveiro , Portugal
| | - B M Neves
- Faculty of Pharmacy University of Coimbra , 3000-548 Coimbra , Portugal . ; ; ; Tel: +351 239 480 209
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
- Department of Chemistry , Mass Spectrometry Center , QOPNA , University of Aveiro , Campus Universitário de Santiago , 3810-193 Aveiro , Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Faculty of Pharmacy University of Coimbra , 3000-548 Coimbra , Portugal . ; ; ; Tel: +351 239 480 209
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology , University of Coimbra , 3004-517 Coimbra , Portugal
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Abu-Darwish MS, Cabral C, Gonçalves MJ, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Zulfiqar A, Khan IA, Efferth T, Salgueiro L. Chemical composition and biological activities of Artemisia judaica essential oil from southern desert of Jordan. J Ethnopharmacol 2016; 191:161-168. [PMID: 27318275 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE Artemisia judaica L. (Arabic name: Beithran), is a medicinal and aromatic plant growing in the valley bottoms of desert areas, particularly in the southern desert of Jordan nearest to the Jordan-Saudi Arabia borders and in Wadi Araba in the Southern Badia. In Jordan, A. judaica is widely used in traditional medicine being recommended by aboriginal Bedouins in the North Badia region of Jordan as calmative. Furthermore, it is used for the treatment of stomach ache, heart diseases, sexual weakness, diabetes, gastro-intestinal disorders and external wounding. Additionally, other folk medicines of the Arabic region commonly use this aromatic plant for the treatment of inflammatory-related diseases, for instance fungal infections, diabetes, atherosclerosis, cancer and arthritis. AIM OF THE STUDY Considering the traditional medicinal uses and the lack of scientific studies addressing the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind A. judaica claimed activities, the present study was designed to validate some of the traditional uses ascribed to this species, specifically the antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities of A. judaica essential oil at doses devoid of cytotoxicity to mammalian cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS Chemical analysis of A. judaica essential oil isolated by hydrodistillation from aerial parts was carried out by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antifungal activity (minimal inhibitory concentrations and minimal lethal concentrations) was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophyte and Aspergillus strains. In order to deeply explore the mechanisms behind the anti-fungal effect of the essential oil, the germ tube inhibition assay and the biofilms formation assay were evaluated using Candida albicans. The assessment of cell viability was accomplished using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay in both hepatocytes and macrophages. Furthermore, the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of A. judaica oil was evaluated by measuring nitric oxide (NO) production using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse macrophages. RESULTS Oxygen containing monoterpenes are a representative group of constituents (68.7%) with piperitone (30.4%), camphor (16.1%) and ethyl cinnamate (11.0%) as main compounds. The highest antifungal activity of the oil was observed against Cryptococcus neoformans, with a MIC value of 0.16µL/mL. The oil revealed an important inhibitory effect on germ tube formation in C. albicans with 80% inhibition of filamentation at a concentration of 0.16µL/mL. Importantly, the oil also interfered with pre-formed biofilms by reducing the amount of the attached biomass. Furthermore, the essential oil significantly inhibited NO production evoked by LPS on macrophages at concentrations with very low toxicity (0.32µL/mL) or without toxicity (0.16µL/mL) to both macrophages and hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed that A. judaica essential oil from Jordan significantly inhibited germ tube formation and disrupted preformed biofilms of C. albicans, emphasizing the therapeutic potential for the treatment of disseminated candidiasis. Additionally, safe concentrations of this essential oil significantly inhibited NO production elicited by LPS in macrophages, highlighting its potential anti-inflammatory activity. Overall, A. judaica bears promising therapeutic potential for further drug development. Importantly, this work also validates some of the traditional uses of A. judaica.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Abu-Darwish
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences, Shouback University College/Maan College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt 19117, Jordan; National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, USA
| | - C Cabral
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M J Gonçalves
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - C Cavaleiro
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ali Zulfiqar
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, USA
| | - I A Khan
- National Center for Natural Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, MS 38677, USA
| | - T Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - L Salgueiro
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Abu-Darwish MS, Cabral C, Gonçalves MJ, Cavaleiro C, Cruz MT, Efferth T, Salgueiro L. Artemisia herba-alba essential oil from Buseirah (South Jordan): Chemical characterization and assessment of safe antifungal and anti-inflammatory doses. J Ethnopharmacol 2015; 174:153-60. [PMID: 26277492 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE Artemisia herba-alba Asso ("desert wormwood" in English; "armoise blanche" in French; "shaih" in Arabic), is a medicinal and strongly aromatic plant widely used in traditional medicine by many cultures since ancient times. It is used to treat inflammatory disorders (colds, coughing, bronchitis, diarrhea), infectious diseases (skin diseases, scabies, syphilis) and others (diabetes, neuralgias). In Jordanian traditional medicine, this plant is used as antiseptic and against skin diseases, scabies, syphilis, fever as well as menstrual and nervous disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY Considering the traditional medicinal uses and the lack of scientific studies addressing the cellular and molecular players involved in these biological activities, the present study was designed to unveil the antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities of A. herba-alba Asso essential oil at doses devoid of toxicity to mammalian cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS Chemical analysis of A. herba-alba essential oil isolated by hydrodistillation from aerial parts was carried out by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antifungal activity (minimal inhibitory concentrations and minimal lethal concentrations) was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophyte and Aspergillus strains. In order to explore the mechanisms behind the anti-fungal effect of the essential oil, the germ tube inhibition assay was evaluated using Candida albicans. The assessment of cell viability was accomplished using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of A. herba-alba oil at the periphery and central nervous system was evaluated by measuring nitric oxide (NO) production using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse macrophages and microglia, respectively. RESULTS Oxygen-containing monoterpenes are the main compounds of the oil, namely 1,8-cineole (20.1%), β-thujone (25.1%), α-thujone (22.9%) and camphor (10.5%). Among the fungal strains tested, the oil demonstrated potential against Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal lethal concentration (MCL) values of 0.32 mg/mL and Cryptococcus neoformans with MIC of 0.64 mg/mL. The oil revealed a strong inhibitory effect on germ tube formation in C. albicans with inhibition of filamentation around 90% at a concentration 0.16 mg/mL. Importantly, the essential oil significantly inhibited NO production evoked by LPS without cytotoxicity at concentrations up to 1.25 µL/mL in macrophages and up to 0.32 µL/mL in microglia. Furthermore, evaluation of cell viability in RAW 264.7 macrophages, BW2 microgliacells and HaCaT keratinocytes showed no cytotoxicity at concentrations up to 0.32 μL/mL. CONCLUSIONS It was possible to find appropriate doses of A. herba-alba oil with both antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities and without detrimental effects towards several mammalian cell types. These findings add significant information to the pharmacological activity of A. herba-alba essential oil, specifically to its antifungal and anti-inflammatory therapeutic value, thus justifying and reinforcing the use of this plant in traditional medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Abu-Darwish
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences, Shouback University College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Shouback 71911, Jordan
| | - C Cabral
- Centro de Estudos Interdisciplinares do Século XX da Universidade de Coimbra-CEIS20, Rua Filipe Simões no. 33, 3000-186 Coimbra, Portugal; Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M J Gonçalves
- Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - C Cavaleiro
- Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M T Cruz
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - T Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - L Salgueiro
- Centro de Estudos Farmacêuticos/Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-295 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Moura J, da Silva L, Cruz MT, Carvalho E. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of bone morphogenetic proteins and activins in the skin: potential benefits for wound healing. Arch Dermatol Res 2013; 305:557-69. [PMID: 23800970 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-013-1381-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2011] [Revised: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and activins are phylogenetically conserved proteins, belonging to the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, that signal through the phosphorylation of receptor-regulated Smad proteins, activating different cell responses. They are involved in various steps of skin morphogenesis and wound repair, as can be evidenced by the fact that their expression is increased in skin injuries. BMPs play not only a role in bone regeneration but are also involved in cartilage, tendon-like tissue and epithelial regeneration, maintain vascular integrity, capillary sprouting, proliferation/migration of endothelial cells and angiogenesis, promote neuron and dendrite formation, alter neuropeptide levels and are involved in immune response modulation, at least in animal models. On the other hand, activins are involved in wound repair through the regulation of skin and immune cell migration and differentiation, re-epithelialization and granulation tissue formation, and also promote the expression of collagens by fibroblasts and modulate scar formation. This review aims at enunciating the effects of BMPs and activins in the skin, namely in skin development, as well as in crucial phases of skin wound healing, such as inflammation, angiogenesis and repair, and will focus on the effects of these proteins on skin cells and their signaling pathways, exploring the potential therapeutic approach of the application of BMP-2, BMP-6 and activin A in chronic wounds, particularly diabetic foot ulcerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Moura
- Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
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Costa G, Francisco V, C. Lopes M, T. Cruz M, T. Batista M. Intracellular Signaling Pathways Modulated by Phenolic Compounds: Application for New Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Discovery. Curr Med Chem 2012; 19:2876-900. [DOI: 10.2174/092986712800672049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Revised: 03/23/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cabral C, Francisco V, Cavaleiro C, Gonçalves MJ, Cruz MT, Sales F, Batista MT, Salgueiro L. Essential Oil of Juniperus communis subsp. alpina (Suter) Čelak Needles: Chemical Composition, Antifungal Activity and Cytotoxicity. Phytother Res 2012; 26:1352-7. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Cabral
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Faculdade de Farmácia/Centre of Pharmaceutical Studies, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba; Universidade de Coimbra; 3000-548; Coimbra; Portugal
| | | | - C. Cavaleiro
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Faculdade de Farmácia/Centre of Pharmaceutical Studies, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba; Universidade de Coimbra; 3000-548; Coimbra; Portugal
| | - M. J. Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Faculdade de Farmácia/Centre of Pharmaceutical Studies, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba; Universidade de Coimbra; 3000-548; Coimbra; Portugal
| | - M. T. Cruz
- Centro de Neurociências e Biologia Celular e Faculdade de Farmácia; Universidade de Coimbra; 3000-295; Coimbra; Portugal
| | - F. Sales
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da UC; Departamento de Ciências da Vida; 3001-401; Coimbra; Portugal
| | - M. T. Batista
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Faculdade de Farmácia/Centre of Pharmaceutical Studies, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba; Universidade de Coimbra; 3000-548; Coimbra; Portugal
| | - L. Salgueiro
- Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Faculdade de Farmácia/Centre of Pharmaceutical Studies, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba; Universidade de Coimbra; 3000-548; Coimbra; Portugal
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Cruz MT, Neves BM, Gonçalo M, Figueiredo A, Duarte CB, Lopes MC. Effect of Skin Sensitizers on Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression and Nitric Oxide Production in Skin Dendritic Cells: Role of Different Immunosuppressive Drugs. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2008; 29:225-41. [PMID: 17849269 DOI: 10.1080/08923970701512304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is involved in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, namely in allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). However, the mechanism by which NO acts in ACD remains elusive. The present study focuses on the effects of different contact sensitizers (2,4-dinitrofluorbenzene, 1,4-phenylenediamine, nickel sulfate), the inactive analogue of DNFB, 2,4-dichloronitrobenzene, and two irritants (sodium dodecyl sulphate and benzalkonium chloride) on the expression of the inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and NO production in skin dendritic cells. It was also studied the role of different immunosuppressive drugs on iNOS expression and NO production. Only nickel sulfate increased the expression of iNOS and NO production being these effects inhibited by dexamathasone. In contrast, cyclosporin A and sirolimus, two other immunosuppressive drugs tested, did not affect iNOS expression triggered by nickel.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Faculdade de Farmácia, and Centro de Neurociênciase Biologia Celular, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Gonçalo M, Vital AL, Cruz MT, Figueiredo A, Lopes MC. P32
Dexamethasone inhibits dendritic cell activation by skin sensitizers. Contact Dermatitis 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.0105-1873.2004.0309fn.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Paneque HM, Prieto AL, Reynaldo RR, Cruz MT, Santos FN, Almaguer ML, Velázquez PL, Heredero BL. Psychological Aspects of Presymptomatic Diagnosis of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 in Cuba. Public Health Genomics 2007; 10:132-9. [PMID: 17575457 DOI: 10.1159/000101754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this paper, we present a descriptive study of the first year of implementation of the predictive genetic testing program for spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) in Cuba, which has been structured along the international guidelines for Huntington disease. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Medical records were retrospectively reviewed from 100 individuals who requested presymptomatic diagnosis. They had been seen between February 2001 and May 2002 at the Ataxia Clinic in the province of Holguín and had completed the protocol. The participants had psychological evaluations before testing and 1 week after being informed of the result. RESULTS The average age of the participants in the presymptomatic testing for SCA2 was 39.3 years, 62% were female. The main reasons for taking the test were family planning and risk assessment in their children. Family participation in the process was high and there were several additional sources of social support. Before the test, the subjects did not present high levels of anxiety or depression. On informing the patients of the test results indicators for anxiety and depression significantly decreased, and there were no significant differences according to whether the test result had been positive or negative. Catastrophic events were rare during the first week after the test. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate a strong interest in presymptomatic diagnosis among individuals at risk for SCA2 in Holguín and a lack of significant psychological drawbacks up to 1 week after information of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Paneque
- Clinic for Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias, Holguín, Cuba.
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Anaya I, Cruz MT, Santiago T, Muñoz JL, Vizcarra M. Quality Assessment of Dried‐Bean with Biochemical Parameters. International Journal of Food Properties 2007. [DOI: 10.1081/jfp-120021336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Anaya
- a Departamento de Graduados e Investigación en Alimentos , Instituto Politécnico Nacional , Prol. Carpio y Plan de Ayala, 11340 , Mexico, D.F
| | - M. T. Cruz
- a Departamento de Graduados e Investigación en Alimentos , Instituto Politécnico Nacional , Prol. Carpio y Plan de Ayala, 11340 , Mexico, D.F
| | - T. Santiago
- a Departamento de Graduados e Investigación en Alimentos , Instituto Politécnico Nacional , Prol. Carpio y Plan de Ayala, 11340 , Mexico, D.F
| | - J. L. Muñoz
- a Departamento de Graduados e Investigación en Alimentos , Instituto Politécnico Nacional , Prol. Carpio y Plan de Ayala, 11340 , Mexico, D.F
| | - M. Vizcarra
- b Departamento de Procesos e Hidráulica , Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana—Unidad , Iztapalapa , Mexico
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Cruz MT, Gonçalo M, Paiva A, Morgado JM, Figueiredo A, Duarte CB, Lopes MC. Contact sensitizers downregulate the expression of the chemokine receptors CCR6 and CXCR4 in a skin dendritic cell line. Arch Dermatol Res 2005; 297:43-7. [PMID: 15924226 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-005-0574-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2005] [Revised: 04/12/2005] [Accepted: 04/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Chemokines are involved in the control of dendritic cell (DC) trafficking, which is critical for the immune response, namely in allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). In this work, we investigated by flow cytometry the effect of the contact sensitizers 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB), 1,4-phenylenediamine (PPD) and nickel sulfate (NiSO(4)), on the surface expression of the chemokine receptors CCR6 and CXCR4 in DC. As an experimental model of a DC we used a fetal skin-derived dendritic cell line (FSDC), which has morphological, phenotypical and functional characteristics of skin DC. Our results show that all the skin sensitizers studied decreased the membrane expression of the chemokine receptors CCR6 and CXCR4. In contrast, 2,4-dichloronitrobenzene (DCNB), the inactive analogue of DNFB without contact sensitizing properties, was without effect on the surface expression of these receptors. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which induces the maturation of DC, also reduced surface CCR6 and CXCR4 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Rua do Norte, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Cruz MT, Duarte CB, Gonçalo M, Figueiredo A, Carvalho AP, Lopes MC. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor activates the transcription of nuclear factor kappa B and induces the expression of nitric oxide synthase in a skin dendritic cell line. Immunol Cell Biol 2001; 79:590-6. [PMID: 11903618 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1711.2001.01041.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) produced by skin dendritic cells and keratinocytes plays an important role in skin physiology, growth and remodelling. Nitric oxide is also involved in skin inflammatory processes and in modulating antigen presentation (either enhancing or suppressing it). In this study, we found that GM-CSF stimulates the expression of the inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in a fetal-skin-derived dendritic cell line (FSDC) and, consequently, increases the nitrite production from 11.9 +/- 3.2 micromol/L (basal level) to 26.9 +/- 4.2 micromol/L. Pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) inhibits nitrite production, with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 19.3 micromol/L and the iNOS protein expression in FSDC. In addition, western blot assays revealed that exposure of FSDC to GM-CSF induces the phosphorylation and degradation of the inhibitor of NF-kappaB (IkB), with subsequent translocation of the p50, p52 and RelB subunits of the transcription nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) from the cytosol to the nucleus. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) showed that FSDC exposure to GM-CSF activates the transcription factor NF-kappaB. Together, these results show that GM-CSF induces iNOS expression in skin dendritic cells by a mechanism involving activation of the NF-kappaB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
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Paneque HM, Santos FN, Tamayo CH, Reynaldo AR, Velázquez Pérez L, Almaguer Mederos L, Hechavarría R, Mouriño FT, Cruz MT. [Type 2 spinocerebellar ataxia: acceptance of prenatal diagnosis in descendents at risk]. Rev Neurol 2001; 33:904-8. [PMID: 11784998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Type 2 spinocerebellar ataxia is a hereditary degenerative disorder of the nervous system. Advances in molecular genetics have made it possible to carry out presymptomatic and prenatal studies. A programme to define the strategies and principles for doing this has been devised. OBJECTIVE To find the level of acceptance of prenatal diagnosis in couples at risk, and to determine the effect of different variables on this acceptance. PATIENTS AND METHODS We made a descriptive type study of a series of cases. The study group included 226 persons. Forty of these were couples of descendents and the remainder were asymptomatic descendents. We applied a questionnaire, after prior information as to the aims of the study and obtaining the consent of the participants. RESULTS Regarding acceptance of prenatal diagnosis by couples of descendents, we found that most (77.5%) accepted this and only 2.5% did not. Prenatal diagnosis was accepted by 67.74% of the descendents themselves. CONCLUSIONS In general there was a high level of acceptance. 159 of the 226 questioned claimed that they would like to have more children and 98.7% of these accepted the test, whilst only 0.01% refused it. The main reasons given were the hope of having healthy children and that the disease would not occur in future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Paneque
- Clínica para la Investigación y Rehabilitación de las Ataxias Hereditarias (CIRAH), Holguín, Cuba
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Cruz MT, Duarte CB, Gonçalo M, Carvalho AP, Lopes MC. LPS induction of I kappa B-alpha degradation and iNOS expression in a skin dendritic cell line is prevented by the janus kinase 2 inhibitor, Tyrphostin b42. Nitric Oxide 2001; 5:53-61. [PMID: 11178937 DOI: 10.1006/niox.2000.0320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Janus kinase (JAK) family of protein tyrosine kinases are activated in response to a wide variety of external stimuli. Here we have investigated whether the janus kinase 2 (JAK2) is involved in the induction of nitric oxide synthase type II (iNOS) expression in a mouse fetal skin dendritic cell line (FSDC). In FSDC the expression of iNOS protein and nitric oxide production, in response to the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulus (5 microg/ml), is inhibited by the specific inhibitor of the JAK2, tyrphostin B42 with an half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) of 9.65 microM. The antioxidant compound pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) inhibits both the nitrite production with an IC(50) of 16.6 microM and the iNOS protein expression in FSDC. In addition, LPS induces the activation of NF-kappa B, and tyrphostin B42 prevents the degradation of the cytosolic factor I kappa B-alpha and blocks the translocation of the NF-kappa B p65 protein subunit into the nucleus. These results indicate that the JAK family of protein kinases and the transcription factor NF-kappa B are involved in the induction of iNOS protein expression in FSDC stimulated with LPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000 Coimbra, Portugal
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Paneque Herrera M, Santos F, Tamayo C, Reynaldo AR, Velázquez Pérez L, Almaguer Mederos LE, Hechavarría Pupo R, Mouriño FT, Cruz MT. Ataxia espinocerebelosa tipo 2: aceptación del diagnóstico prenatal en descendientes en riesgo. Rev Neurol 2001. [DOI: 10.33588/rn.3310.2001322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Cruz MT, Duarte CB, Gonçalo M, Carvalho AP, Lopes MC. Involvement of JAK2 and MAPK on type II nitric oxide synthase expression in skin-derived dendritic cells. Am J Physiol 1999; 277:C1050-7. [PMID: 10600756 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.1999.277.6.c1050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In this report, we demonstrate that a fetal mouse skin-derived dendritic cell line produces nitric oxide (NO) in response to the endotoxin [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] and to cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)]. Expression of the inducible isoform of NO synthase (iNOS) was confirmed by immunofluorescence with an antibody against iNOS. The tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein decreased LPS- and GM-CSF-induced nitrite (NO(-2)) production. The effect of LPS and cytokines on NO(-2) production was inhibited by the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) inhibitor tyrphostin B42. The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) inhibitor SB-203580 also reduced the NO(-2) production evoked by LPS, TNF-alpha, or GM-CSF, but it was not as effective as tyrphostin B42. Inhibition of MAPK kinase with PD-098059 also slightly reduced the effect of TNF-alpha or GM-CSF on NO(-2) production. Immunocytochemistry studies revealed that the transcription factor nuclear factor-kappaB was translocated from the cytoplasm into the nuclei of fetal skin-derived dendritic cells (FSDC) stimulated with LPS, and this translocation was inhibited by tyrphostin B42. Our results show that JAK2 plays a major role in the induction of iNOS in FSDC.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Faculdade de Farmácia e, Universidade de Coimbra, 3000 Coimbra, Portugal
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Abstract
We examined the conversion of L-[3H]arginine to L-[3H]citrulline in lysate from rat thymocytes, which was dependent on Ca2+ and cofactors (FAD, BH4, NADPH). Removal of Ca2+ of the medium, reduced the total L-[3H]citrulline formation by about 97%. The L-[3H]citrulline formation was completely inhibited by the NO synthase inhibitors, NG-nitro-L-arginine and NG-monomethyl-L-arginine, with values for IC50 of 1.2 microM and 19.4 microM, respectively. In intact thymocytes, the L-[3H]citrulline formation was dependent on the intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) concentration. Increasing the extracellular free-Ca2+ concentration up to 1.5 mM, was accompanied by an increase in [Ca2+]i inside the thymocytes and there was a parallel increase in the intracellular L-[3H]citrulline formation, which reached a maximal value of 371.2 nM of [Ca2+]i. Addition of NG-nitro-L-arginine to the medium, completely inhibited the formation of L-[3H]citrulline. The immunolabeling study revealed that 15% of the thymocytes isolated from rat thymus constitutively expressed the endothelial isoform of NO synthase.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
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Abstract
Integrins exist in different activation states on the surfaces of cells. Addition of the proper signal, ligand, or antibody can alter the activation state of these molecules. We report here the identification of two immunocytochemically distinct populations of beta1 integrins on fixed embryonic chick dermal fibroblasts. One population, recognized by the integrin activating mAb TASC, localizes to discrete regions of the cell, most likely focal contacts. These integrins co-localize with other proteins, such as vinculin and F-actin, and their retention at these sites is dependent on the actin cytoskeleton. The other population, identified with the inhibitory mAb W1B10, is more evenly distributed throughout the cell surface, and its pattern remains unchanged after disruption of the actin cytoskeleton. Double labeling experiments using Fab fragments of TASC alongside whole W1B10 IgG revealed non-overlapping staining patterns. These results show that it is possible to visualize and study discrete populations of integrins on cell surfaces using two different antibodies. We hypothesize that these antibodies report differences in the distribution of receptors in two different states. A model is proposed describing the ligand independent recruitment of integrins based on these findings and results from other labs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Cruz
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeley, 94720, USA
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del Castillo LM, Nieto Z, Arce E, Inei-Shizukawa G, Cruz MT, Castañeda-Agulló M. Interpretation of rate profiles of the pH-dependent trypsin- and alpha-chymotrypsin-catalyzed hydrolysis of esters with a free alpha-amino group. Biochim Biophys Acta 1971; 235:358-69. [PMID: 5317640 DOI: 10.1016/0005-2744(71)90215-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Plato CC, Cruz MT, Kurland LT. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-Parkinsonism dementia complex of Guam: further genetic investigations. Am J Hum Genet 1969; 21:133-41. [PMID: 5770171 PMCID: PMC1706441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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