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Mangiacotti M, Baeckens S, Fumagalli M, Martín J, Scali S, Sacchi R. Protein-lipid Association in Lizard Chemical Signals. Integr Org Biol 2023; 5:obad016. [PMID: 37228571 PMCID: PMC10205002 DOI: 10.1093/iob/obad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical communication in terrestrial vertebrates is often built on complex blends, where semiochemical and structural compounds may form an integrated functional unit. In lizards, many species have specialized epidermal glands whose secretions are waxy, homogeneous blends of lipids and proteins, both active in communication. The intimate co-occurrence of such compounds allows us to hypothesize that they should undergo a certain degree of covariation, considering both their semiochemical role and the support-to-lipid function hypothesized for the protein fraction. In order to assess the occurrence and level of protein-lipid covariation, we compared the composition and complexity of the two fractions in the femoral gland secretions of 36 lizard species, combining phylogenetically-informed analysis with tandem mass spectrometry. We found the composition and complexity of the two fractions to be strongly correlated. The composition of the protein fraction was mostly influenced by the relative proportion of cholestanol, provitamin D3, stigmasterol, and tocopherol, while the complexity of the protein pattern increased with that of lipids. Additionally, two identified proteins (carbonic anhydrase and protein disulfide isomerase) increased their concentration as provitamin D3 became more abundant. Although our approach does not allow us to decrypt the functional relations between the proteinaceous and lipid components, nor under the semiochemical or structural hypothesis, the finding that the proteins involved in this association were enzymes opens up to new perspectives about protein role: They may confer dynamic properties to the blend, making it able to compensate predictable variation of the environmental conditions. This may expand the view about proteins in the support-to-lipid hypothesis, from being a passive and inert component of the secretions to become an active and dynamic one, thus providing cues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Baeckens
- Functional Morphology Lab, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
- Evolution and Optics of Nanostructures Group, Department of Biology, Ghent University, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - M Fumagalli
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - J Martín
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, E-28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - S Scali
- Sezione Erpetologia, Museo di Storia Naturale di Milano, Corso Venezia 55, IT-20121 Milano, Italy
| | - R Sacchi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 24, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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2
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Jones JM, Hu YD, Eid MA, Sensenig CJ, Mehta KS, Goldwag JL, Barnes JA, Kang R, Barry MJ, Spangler EL, Nelson PR, Mureebe L, Tang G, Tzeng E, Alabi O, Halpern VJ, Stone DH, Brooke BS, Moore K, Henke P, Scali S, O'Connell J, Goodney PP. Short-Term Concerns Primarily Determine Patient Preference for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair. J Surg Res 2021; 269:119-128. [PMID: 34551368 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair may be performed through open or endovascular approaches, but the factors influencing a patient's repair-type preference are not well characterized. Here we performed a qualitative analysis to better understand factors influencing patient preference within the Preference for Open Versus Endovascular Repair of AAA Trial. METHODS Open-ended responses regarding primary (n = 21) and secondary (n = 47) factors influencing patient preference underwent qualitative analysis using the constant comparative method with iterative reviews. Codes were used to generate themes and themes grouped into categories, with each step conducted via consensus agreement between three researchers. Relative prevalence of themes were compared to ascertain trends in patient preference. RESULTS Patient responses regarding both primary and secondary factors fell into four categories: Short-term concerns, long-term concerns, advice & experience, and other. Patients most frequently described short-term concerns (23) as their primary influence, with themes including post-op complications, hospitalization & recovery, and intraoperative concerns. Long-term concerns were more prevalent (20) as secondary factors, which included themes such as survival, and chronic management. The average age of patients voicing only long-term concerns as a primary factor was 11 years younger than those listing only short-term concerns. CONCLUSION Short-term concerns relating to the procedure and recovery are more often the primary factor influencing patient preference, while long term concerns play a more secondary role. Long-term concerns are more often a primary factor in younger patients. Vascular surgeons should consider this information in shared decision making to reach an optimal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Jones
- The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Y D Hu
- The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - M A Eid
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire; Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont
| | | | - K S Mehta
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont
| | - J L Goldwag
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont
| | - J A Barnes
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont
| | - R Kang
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - M J Barry
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Shared Decision Making, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - P R Nelson
- Muskogee VAMC, Muskogee, Okla; Tampa VAMC, Tampa Bay, Florida
| | | | - G Tang
- Seattle VAMC, Seattle, Washington
| | - E Tzeng
- Pittsburgh VAMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - O Alabi
- Atlanta VAMC, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - D H Stone
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | | | - K Moore
- The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - P Henke
- Ann Arbor VAMC, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - S Scali
- Gainesville VAMC, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - P P Goodney
- Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire; Department of Surgery and VA Outcomes Group, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont.
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3
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Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bernini A, Scali S, Bracci L, Lozzi L. Molecular definition of the interaction between a tumor-specific tetrabranched peptide and LRP6 receptor. Amino Acids 2020; 52:915-924. [PMID: 32556741 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-020-02860-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The tumor-specific tetrabranched peptide NT4 binds membrane sulfate glycosaminoglycans and receptors belonging to the low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP) family, like LRP6, which are overexpressed in cancer. The binding occurs through a multimeric positively-charged motif of NT4 that interacts with negatively charged motives in both glycosaminoglycans and LRP receptors. LRP6 has an essential function in canonical Wnt signaling, acting together with receptors of the Frizzled family as coreceptor for Wnt ligands. The extracellular domain of LRP6 contains four YWTD β-propellers, which are fundamental for interactions with ligands, such as Wnt and Wnt inhibitors. To investigate the molecular interactions between the NT4 peptide and LRP6 receptor, we synthesized a library of epitope mapping peptides reproducing the YWTD β-propeller 3 and 4 of LRP6. The peptides that showed to bind NT4 represented the portion of LRP6 located on the top face of β-propeller 3 and contained negatively charged residues, including glutamic acid-708 which is known to be involved in Wnt3a interaction. The results pave the way for a possible development of peptide inhibitors of Wnt3a pathway to be used as drugs in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Bernini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Lozzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
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Quercini L, Brunetti J, Riolo G, Bindi S, Scali S, Lampronti I, D'Aversa E, Wronski S, Pollini S, Gentile M, Lupetti P, Rossolini GM, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. An antimicrobial molecule mitigates signs of sepsis in vivo and eradicates infections from lung tissue. FASEB J 2019; 34:192-207. [PMID: 31914681 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901896rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The peptide sequence KKIRVRLSA was synthesized in a dimeric structure (SET-M33DIM) and evaluated as a candidate drug for infections due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative pathogens. SET-M33DIM showed significant antibacterial activity against MDR strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Escherichia coli (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration [MICs], 1.5-11 µM), and less activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MICs, 11-22 µM). It showed very low toxicity in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo; in cytotoxicity tests, its EC50 was as much as 22 times better than that of SET-M33, a peptide with the same amino-acid sequence, but synthesized in tetra-branched form (638 vs 28 µM). In in vivo and ex vivo experiments, SET-M33DIM cleared P. aeruginosa infection, significantly reducing signs of sepsis in animals, and restoring cell viability in lung tissue after bacterial challenge. It also quelled inflammation triggered by LPS and live bacterial cells, inhibiting expression of inflammatory mediators in lung tissue, cultured macrophages, and bronchial cells from a cystic fibrosis patient.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta D'Aversa
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabine Wronski
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Member of Fraunhofer international Consortium for Anti-Infective Research (iCAIR), Hannover, Germany
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Lupetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Ronchey S, Fazzini S, Scali S, Torsello G, Kubilis P, Veith F. Collected Transatlantic Experience From the PERICLES Registry: Use of Chimney Grafts to Treat Post-EVAR Type IA Endoleaks Shows Good Midterm Results. J Vasc Surg 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2018.08.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Torsello G, Usai MV, Scali S, Kubilis P, Veith FJ, Markatis F, Donas KP. Gender-related outcomes of chimney EVAR within the PERICLES registry. Vascular 2018; 26:641-646. [DOI: 10.1177/1708538118797448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective Gender-related differences in outcomes in complex endovascular aortic repair have not been profoundly investigated. Use of low profile abdominal devices as in chimney endovascular repair may be beneficial for female patients with pararenal pathologies. With the chimney technique, there is no need for large introduction sheaths. This could be an advantage in case of smaller in diameter iliac access especially in combination with stenosis or elongation. Aim of the present study was to compare the perioperative and mid-term outcomes between males and females patients treated with the chimney/snorkel technique for pararenal aortic pathologies. Methods The PERICLES registry collected the world wide experience with the chimney technique. According to the gender, patients were classified in two cohorts. Primary endpoints were freedom from occlusion of the chimney grafts and reintervention. Secondary endpoints included access site complications and need for surgical or interventional revision, Endoleak Type I rate, 30-day overall complications and mortality. Univariate comparison P-values were generated using either the likelihood ratio χ2 test, the Fisher exact test, the Wilcoxon rank sum test, or the log rank test. Kaplan–Meier curves estimated the outcomes in the long run. Results A total of 412 patients underwent Ch-EVAR, 71 (17%) females and 341 (83%) males with a mean age for both groups being 74 years were included in the present study. After 36 months of mean follow-up, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two cohorts regarding re-interventions ( P= .44). Freedom from occlusion rates at 36 months did not differed between the two groups (females 84% vs. 80% for males ( P= .033). For patients receiving more than one chimney stent, the odds of having a complication did not differ between males and females (M:F OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 0.6–6.4, P = 0.228); 30-day mortality was 0% in the female group, instead five male patients died within one month. ( P = 0.59). The incidence of acute renal failure was low in both groups without statistical difference: 2 (3.1%) vs. 13 (4.6%) 58 ( P = 1.00). Neither patient received an endoconduit to insert the abdominal device. Conclusions No statistically significant difference regarding the freedom from reintervention and chimney graft patency was observed between the two genders. The results highlight the beneficial use of the chimney technique in female patients who can have potentially higher risk of access complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Torsello
- Clinic of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Deparment of Vascular Surgery, St. Franziskus Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - MV Usai
- Clinic of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - S Scali
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, University of Florida, FL, USA
| | - P Kubilis
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, University of Florida, FL, USA
| | | | - F Markatis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Metropolitan Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - KP Donas
- Deparment of Vascular Surgery, St. Franziskus Hospital, Münster, Germany
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7
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Bracci L, Mandarini E, Brunetti J, Depau L, Pini A, Terzuoli L, Scali S, Falciani C. The GAG-specific branched peptide NT4 reduces angiogenesis and invasiveness of tumor cells. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0194744. [PMID: 29566097 PMCID: PMC5864057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0194744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycans, HSPGs, modulate major transformations of cancer cells, leading to tumor growth, invasion and metastasis. HSPGs also regulate neo-angiogenesis which prompts cancer progression and metastatic spread. A different aspect of heparin and analogs is their prominent role in the coagulation of blood. The interplay between coagulation and metastasis is being actively studied: anticoagulants such as heparin-derivatives have anticancer activity and procoagulants, such as thrombin, positively modulate proliferation, migration and invasion. The branched peptide NT4 binds to HSPGs and targets selectively cancer cells and tissues. For this, it had been extensively investigated in the last years and it proved to be efficient as chemotherapeutic and tumor tracer in in vivo models of cancer. We investigated the effects of the branched peptide in terms of modulation of angiogenesis and invasiveness of cancer cells. NT4 proved to have a major impact on endothelial cell proliferation, migration and tube formation, particularly when induced by FGF2 and thrombin. In addition, NT4 had important effects on aggressive tumor cells migration and invasion and it also had an anticoagulant profile.The peptide showed very interesting evidence of interference with tumor invasion pathways, offering a cue for its development as a tumor-targeting drug, and also for its use in the study of links between coagulation and tumor progression involving HSPGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Terzuoli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- * E-mail:
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8
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Brunetti J, Riolo G, Gentile M, Bernini A, Paccagnini E, Falciani C, Lozzi L, Scali S, Depau L, Pini A, Lupetti P, Bracci L. Near-infrared quantum dots labelled with a tumor selective tetrabranched peptide for in vivo imaging. J Nanobiotechnology 2018; 16:21. [PMID: 29501065 PMCID: PMC5834876 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-018-0346-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Near-infrared quantum dots (NIR QDs) are a new class of fluorescent labels with excellent bioimaging features, such as high fluorescence intensity, good fluorescence stability, sufficient electron density, and strong tissue-penetrating ability. For all such features, NIR QDs have great potential for early cancer diagnosis, in vivo tumor imaging and high resolution electron microscopy studies on cancer cells. Results In the present study we constructed NIR QDs functionalized with the NT4 cancer-selective tetrabranched peptides (NT4-QDs). We observed specific uptake of NT4-QDs in human cancer cells in in vitro experiments and a much higher selective accumulation and retention of targeted QDs at the tumor site, compared to not targeted QDs, in a colon cancer mouse model. Conclusions NIR QDs labelled with the tetrabranched NT4 peptide have very promising performance for selective addressing of tumor cells in vitro and in vivo, proving rising features of NT4-QDs as theranostics. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12951-018-0346-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Bernini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Lozzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Pietro Lupetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
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9
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Titone V, Marsiglia F, Mangiacotti M, Sacchi R, Scali S, Zuffi MAL. Better to be resident, larger or coloured? Experimental analysis on intraspecific aggression in the ruin lizard. J Zool (1987) 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Titone
- Natural History Museum; University of Pisa; Calci Pisa Italy
| | - F. Marsiglia
- Natural History Museum; University of Pisa; Calci Pisa Italy
| | - M. Mangiacotti
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences; University of Pavia; Pavia Italy
| | - R. Sacchi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences; University of Pavia; Pavia Italy
| | - S. Scali
- Natural History Museum; Milano Italy
| | - M. A. L. Zuffi
- Natural History Museum; University of Pisa; Calci Pisa Italy
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10
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Brunetti J, Falciani C, Roscia G, Pollini S, Bindi S, Scali S, Arrieta UC, Gómez-Vallejo V, Quercini L, Ibba E, Prato M, Rossolini GM, Llop J, Bracci L, Pini A. In vitro and in vivo efficacy, toxicity, bio-distribution and resistance selection of a novel antibacterial drug candidate. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26077. [PMID: 27169671 PMCID: PMC4864329 DOI: 10.1038/srep26077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A synthetic antimicrobial peptide was identified as a possible candidate for the development of a new antibacterial drug. The peptide, SET-M33L, showed a MIC90 below 1.5 μM and 3 μM for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. In in vivo models of P. aeruginosa infections, the peptide and its pegylated form (SET-M33L-PEG) enabled a survival percentage of 60–80% in sepsis and lung infections when injected twice i.v. at 5 mg/Kg, and completely healed skin infections when administered topically. Plasma clearance showed different kinetics for SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG, the latter having greater persistence two hours after injection. Bio-distribution in organs did not show significant differences in uptake of the two peptides. Unlike colistin, SET-M33L did not select resistant mutants in bacterial cultures and also proved non genotoxic and to have much lower in vivo toxicity than antimicrobial peptides already used in clinical practice. The characterizations reported here are part of a preclinical development plan that should bring the molecule to clinical trial in the next few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Roscia
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Unai Cossio Arrieta
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Imaging Group CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastián, Spain
| | | | - Leila Quercini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elisa Ibba
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Prato
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation I.R.C.C.S., Florence, Italy
| | - Jordi Llop
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Imaging Group CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
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11
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Ceccherini F, Falciani C, Onori M, Scali S, Pollini S, Rossolini GM, Bracci L, Pini A. Antimicrobial activity of levofloxacin – M33 peptide conjugation or combination. Med Chem Commun 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c5md00392j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
M33 is a branched antimicrobial peptide against Gram-negative bacteria. We reported its conjugation with levofloxacin and its antibacterial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine
- University of Florence
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
- Clinical Pathology Unit
- Siena University Hospital
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
- Clinical Pathology Unit
- Siena University Hospital
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12
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Colleoni E, Denoël M, Padoa‐Schioppa E, Scali S, Ficetola GF. R
ensch's rule and sexual dimorphism in salamanders: patterns and potential processes. J Zool (1987) 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Colleoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e del Territorio e di Scienze della Terra Università degli Studi di Milano‐Bicocca Milano Italy
| | - M. Denoël
- Laboratory of Fish and Amphibian Ethology Behavioural Biology Unit Department of Biology, Ecology and Evolution University of Liege Liege Belgium
| | - E. Padoa‐Schioppa
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e del Territorio e di Scienze della Terra Università degli Studi di Milano‐Bicocca Milano Italy
| | - S. Scali
- Museo di Storia Naturale di Milano Milano Italy
| | - G. F. Ficetola
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e del Territorio e di Scienze della Terra Università degli Studi di Milano‐Bicocca Milano Italy
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Alpine (LECA) CNRS UMR 5553 Université Joseph Fourier Saint‐Martin‐d'Hères France
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Sannolo
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano Italy
| | | | - R. Sacchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia Italy
| | - S. Scali
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano Italy
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14
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Falciani C, Lozzi L, Scali S, Brunetti J, Bracci L, Pini A. Site-specific pegylation of an antimicrobial peptide increases resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase. Amino Acids 2014; 46:1403-7. [PMID: 24510250 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-014-1686-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
M33 is a branched peptide currently under preclinical characterization for the development of a new antibacterial drug against gram-negative bacteria. Here, we report its pegylation at the C-terminus of the three-lysine-branching core and the resulting increase in stability to Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase. This protease is a virulence factor that acts by destroying peptides of the native immune system. Peptide resistance to this protease is an important feature for M33-Peg activity against Pseudomonas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Siena, Siena, Italy
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15
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Falciani C, Brunetti J, Lelli B, Ravenni N, Lozzi L, Depau L, Scali S, Bernini A, Pini A, Bracci L. Cancer Selectivity of Tetrabranched Neurotensin Peptides Is Generated by Simultaneous Binding to Sulfated Glycosaminoglycans and Protein Receptors. J Med Chem 2013; 56:5009-18. [DOI: 10.1021/jm400329p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Barbara Lelli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Niccolò Ravenni
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Luisa Lozzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Andrea Bernini
- Department of Biotechnology,
Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
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16
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Scali
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano; Italy
| | - R. Sacchi
- DSTA - Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - M. Azzusi
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano; Italy
| | - S. Daverio
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano; Italy
| | - T. Oppedisano
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano; Italy
| | - M. Mangiacotti
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano; Milano; Italy
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17
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Falciani C, Lozzi L, Pollini S, Luca V, Carnicelli V, Brunetti J, Lelli B, Bindi S, Scali S, Di Giulio A, Rossolini GM, Mangoni ML, Bracci L, Pini A. Isomerization of an antimicrobial peptide broadens antimicrobial spectrum to gram-positive bacterial pathogens. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46259. [PMID: 23056272 PMCID: PMC3462775 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The branched M33 antimicrobial peptide was previously shown to be very active against Gram-negative bacterial pathogens, including multidrug-resistant strains. In an attempt to produce back-up molecules, we synthesized an M33 peptide isomer consisting of D-aminoacids (M33-D). This isomeric version showed 4 to 16-fold higher activity against Gram-positive pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, than the original peptide, while retaining strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria. The antimicrobial activity of both peptides was influenced by their differential sensitivity to bacterial proteases. The better activity shown by M33-D against S. aureus compared to M33-L was confirmed in biofilm eradication experiments where M33-L showed 12% activity with respect to M33-D, and in vivo models where Balb-c mice infected with S. aureus showed 100% and 0% survival when treated with M33-D and M33-L, respectively. M33-D appears to be an interesting candidate for the development of novel broad-spectrum antimicrobials active against bacterial pathogens of clinical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Lozzi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Luca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche A. Fanelli, Università di Roma, La Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Veronica Carnicelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biomediche, Università di L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Lelli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Giulio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biomediche, Università di L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche A. Fanelli, Università di Roma, La Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
- * E-mail:
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18
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Sacchi R, Pellitteri-Rosa D, Capelli A, Ghitti M, Di Paoli A, Bellati A, Scali S, Galeotti P, Fasola M. Studying the reproductive biology of the common wall lizard using ultrasonography. J Zool (1987) 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2012.00917.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Sacchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - D. Pellitteri-Rosa
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - A. Capelli
- Clinica Veterinaria Sant'Anna; San Martino Siccomario (PV); Italy
| | - M. Ghitti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - A. Di Paoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - A. Bellati
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - S. Scali
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale; Milano; Italy
| | - P. Galeotti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
| | - M. Fasola
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell'Ambiente; Università di Pavia; Pavia; Italy
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19
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Sacchi R, Scali S, Cavirani V, Pupin F, Pellitteri-Rosa D, Zuffi MAL. Leukocyte differential counts and morphology from twelve European lizards. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/11250003.2011.568014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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20
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Pini A, Lozzi L, Bernini A, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Scali S, Bindi S, Di Maggio T, Rossolini GM, Niccolai N, Bracci L. Efficacy and toxicity of the antimicrobial peptide M33 produced with different counter-ions. Amino Acids 2011; 43:467-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-011-1103-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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21
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Rayment W, Dawson S, Scali S, Slooten L. Listening for a needle in a haystack: passive acoustic detection of dolphins at very low densities. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2011. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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22
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Bracarda S, Sisani M, Rossi M, Galli L, Hamzaj A, Scali S, De Angelis V, Falcone A. Docetaxel rechallenge chemotherapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). J Clin Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.29.15_suppl.e15145] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
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23
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Sacchi R, Scali S, Pupin F, Gentilli A, Galeotti P, Fasola M. Microgeographic variation of colour morph frequency and biometry of common wall lizards. J Zool (1987) 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2007.00342.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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24
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Falciani C, Fabbrini M, Pini A, Lozzi L, Lelli B, Pileri S, Brunetti J, Bindi S, Scali S, Bracci L. Synthesis and biological activity of stable branched neurotensin peptides for tumor targeting. Mol Cancer Ther 2007; 6:2441-8. [PMID: 17766836 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-07-0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Receptors for endogenous regulatory peptides, like the neuropeptide neurotensin, are overexpressed in several human cancers and can be targets for peptide-mediated tumor-selective therapy. Peptides, however, have the main drawback of an extremely short half-life in vivo. We showed that neurotensin and other endogenous peptides, when synthesized as dendrimers, retain biological activity and become resistant to proteolysis. Here, we synthesized the neurotensin functional fragment NT(8-13) in a tetrabranched form linked to different units for tumor therapy or diagnosis. Fluorescent molecules were used to monitor receptor binding and internalization in HT29 human adenocarcinoma cells and receptor binding in HT29 tumor xenografts in nude mice. Linking of chemotherapic molecules like chlorin e6 and methotrexate to dendrimers resulted in a dramatic increase in drug selectivity, uptake of which by target cells became dependent on peptide receptor binding. When nude mice carrying human tumor xenografts were treated with branched NT(8-13)-methotrexate, a 60% reduction in tumor growth was observed with respect to mice treated with the free drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy 53100.
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25
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Boccardo F, Rubagotti A, Guglielmini P, Fini A, Paladini G, Mesiti M, Rinaldini M, Scali S, Porpiglia M, Benedetto C, Restuccia N, Buzzi F, Franchi R, Massidda B, Distante V, Amadori D, Sismondi P. Switching to anastrozole versus continued tamoxifen treatment of early breast cancer. Updated results of the Italian tamoxifen anastrozole (ITA) trial. Ann Oncol 2006; 17 Suppl 7:vii10-4. [PMID: 16760270 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdl941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [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: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tamoxifen, for many years the 'gold standard' in the adjuvant setting for the management of endocrine sensitive early breast cancer, is associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer and other life-threatening events. Moreover, many women relapse during or after tamoxifen therapy due to the development of resistance. This provided the rationale for a switching trial with anastrozole, the updated results of which are reported here. PATIENTS AND METHODS This trial investigated the efficacy of switching to anastrozole for women already receiving tamoxifen. After 2-3 years of tamoxifen treatment, postmenopausal, node-positive, ER-positive patients were randomized to receive either anastrozole 1 mg/day or to continue tamoxifen, 20 mg/day, giving a total duration of 5-years treatment. The primary end point was disease-free survival and secondary endpoints were event-free survival, overall survival and safety. RESULTS A total of 448 patients were enrolled. At a median follow-up time of 64 months (range 12-93), 63 events had been reported in the tamoxifen group compared with 39 in the anastrozole group [HR 0.57 (95% CI 0.38-0.85) P = 0.005]. Relapse-free and overall survival were also longer in the anastrozole group [HR 0.56 (95% CI 0.35-0.89) P = 0.01 and 0.56 (95% CI 0.28-1.15) P = 0.1]. However, the latter difference was not statistically significant. Overall more patients in the anastrozole group experienced at least one adverse event (209 versus 151: P = 0.000). However, numbers of patients experiencing serious adverse events were comparable (37 versus 40, respectively: P = 0.7). CONCLUSIONS Switching to anastrozole after the first 2-3 years of treatment was confirmed to improve event-free and relapse-free survival of postmenopausal, node-positive, ER-positive early breast cancer patients already receiving adjuvant tamoxifen.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Boccardo
- The National Cancer Research Institute and the University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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26
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Lozzi L, Lelli B, Runci Y, Scali S, Bernini A, Falciani C, Pini A, Niccolai N, Neri P, Bracci L. Rational design and molecular diversity for the construction of anti-alpha-bungarotoxin antidotes with high affinity and in vivo efficiency. Chem Biol 2003; 10:411-7. [PMID: 12770823 DOI: 10.1016/s1074-5521(03)00094-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The structure of peptide p6.7, a mimotope of the nicotinic receptor ligand site that binds alpha-bungarotoxin and neutralizes its toxicity, was compared to that of the acetylcholine binding protein. The central loop of p6.7, when complexed with alpha-bungarotoxin, fits the structure of the acetylcholine binding protein (AChBP) ligand site, whereas peptide terminal residues seem to be less involved in toxin binding. The minimal binding sequence of p6.7 was confirmed experimentally by synthesis of progressively deleted peptides. Affinity maturation was then achieved by random addition of residues flanking the minimal binding sequence and by selection of new alpha-bungarotoxin binding peptides on the basis of their dissociation kinetic rate. The tetra-branched forms of the resulting high-affinity peptides were effective as antidotes in vivo at a significantly lower dose than the tetra-branched lead peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Lozzi
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Siena, via Fiorentina 1, I-53100 Siena, Italy
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27
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Scali S, Manfredi MT, Guidali F. Lacerta bilineata (Reptilia, Lacertidae) as a host of Ixodes ricinus (Acari, Ixodidae) in a protected area of northern Italy. Parassitologia 2001; 43:165-8. [PMID: 12402524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
A survey on the importance of Lacerta bilineata as host of Ixodes ricinus was conducted in Northern Italy over a three-year period. A total of 202 western green lizards were captured and a total of 2349 ticks were collected. All ticks were identified as I. ricinus; 53.2% and 46.7% were at the larval and nymphal stages, respectively. Tick number and prevalence were higher in males than in females, especially from April to June during the host breeding period. The level of tick infestation increased with lizard age and size. The number of ticks collected on adult lizards peaked in June and in August. Infestation levels appear to be related to lizard activity patterns and behaviour. Tick number and prevalence also varied in relation to host habitat, infestation being higher in lizards from areas with hard vegetation cover.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Scali
- Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano, Italy
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28
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Cattaneo C, DiMartino S, Scali S, Craig OE, Grandi M, Sokol RJ. Determining the human origin of fragments of burnt bone: a comparative study of histological, immunological and DNA techniques. Forensic Sci Int 1999; 102:181-91. [PMID: 10464934 DOI: 10.1016/s0379-0738(99)00059-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In situations where badly burnt fragments of bone are found, identification of their human or non-human origin may be impossible by gross morphology alone and other techniques have to be employed. In order to determine whether histological methods were redundant and should be superseded by biomolecular analyses, small fragments of artificially burnt bone (human and non-human) were examined by quantitative and standard light microscopy, and the findings compared with newer biomolecular analyses based on identifying specific human albumin by ELISA and amplifying human mitochondrial DNA by PCR. For quantitative microscopy, reference data were first created using burnt bones from 15 human and 20 common domestic and farm animals. Measured osteon and Haversian canal parameters were analysed using multivariate statistical methods. Highly significant differences were found between values for human and non-human bone, and a canonical discriminant function equation was derived, giving a predicted correct classification of 79%. For the main study, samples of cortical bone were taken from three fresh cadavers, six human skeletons and ten freshly slaughtered animals and burnt by exposure to temperatures ranging from 800 to 1200 degrees C; charred fragments of human cortical bone from two forensic cases were also tested. Quantitative microscopy and canonical discriminant function gave the correct origin of every sample. Standard microscopy falsely assigned burnt bone from one human skeleton and one forensic case to a non-human source, but otherwise gave correct results. Human albumin was identified in five individuals, including one of the forensic cases, but mitochondrial DNA could not be amplified from any of the human bone. No false positive test results were seen with either biomolecular method; and human albumin and mitochondrial DNA were correctly identified in all unburnt control specimens. It was concluded that histological methods were not redundant and that quantitative microscopy provided an accurate and consistent means of determining the human or non-human origin of burnt bone and was more reliable than standard microscopy or the newer immunological and DNA techniques tested here.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cattaneo
- Istituto di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
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