1
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Franceus J, Steynen M, Allaert Y, Bredael K, D'hooghe M, Desmet T. High-yield synthesis of 2-O-α-D-glucosyl-D-glycerate by a bifunctional glycoside phosphorylase. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:55. [PMID: 38175244 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12970-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Osmolytes are produced by various microorganisms as a defense mechanism to protect cells and macromolecules from damage caused by external stresses in harsh environments. Due to their useful stabilizing properties, these molecules are applied as active ingredients in a wide range of cosmetics and healthcare products. The metabolic pathways and biocatalytic syntheses of glycosidic osmolytes such as 2-O-α-D-glucosyl-D-glycerate often involve the action of a glycoside phosphorylase. Here, we report the discovery of a glucosylglycerate phosphorylase from carbohydrate-active enzyme family GH13 that is also active on sucrose, which contrasts the strict specificity of known glucosylglycerate phosphorylases that can only use α-D-glucose 1-phosphate as glycosyl donor in transglycosylation reactions. The novel enzyme can be distinguished from other phosphorylases from the same family by the presence of an atypical conserved sequence motif at specificity-determining positions in the active site. The promiscuity of the sucrose-active glucosylglycerate phosphorylase can be exploited for the high-yielding and rapid synthesis of 2-O-α-D-glucosyl-D-glycerate from sucrose and D-glycerate. KEY POINTS: • A Xylanimonas protaetiae glycoside phosphorylase can use both d-glycerate and fructose as glucosyl acceptor with high catalytic efficiency • Biocatalytic synthesis of the osmolyte 2-O-α-d-glucosyl-d-glycerate • Positions in the active site of GH13 phosphorylases act as convenient specificity fingerprints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorick Franceus
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Manon Steynen
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yentl Allaert
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kato Bredael
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matthias D'hooghe
- SynBioC Research Group, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Desmet
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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2
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Van Lijsebetten F, Maes S, Winne JM, Du Prez FE. Thermoswitchable catalysis to inhibit and promote plastic flow in vitrimers. Chem Sci 2024; 15:7061-7071. [PMID: 38756803 PMCID: PMC11095380 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc00417e] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Acid-base catalysis is a common strategy to induce covalent bond exchanges in dynamic polymer networks. Strong acids or strong bases can promote rapid network rearrangements, and are simultaneously preferred catalysts for chemical reactions where maximum efficiency at the lowest possible temperature is aimed for. However, within the context of dynamic polymer networks, the incorporation of highly active catalysts can negatively affect the longer term application potential. Network dynamicity can diminish through catalyst ageing or quenching and highly active catalysts may prematurely activate bond exchanges, leading to dimensional instability and thus low creep resistance of the polymer networks. Herein, we present several examples where we explicitly explored weak acids (carboxylic acids) as catalysts for dynamic bond exchanges, using vinylogous urethanes (VU) as a well-understood protic acid catalysed vitrimer chemistry. Surprisingly, we have found that the sought-after long-term stability offered by a weak acid does not necessarily bring lower activity at high temperature. In fact, the weak acids show a remarkable thermoswitchable catalytic behaviour, going from an inactive hydrogen bonded state to an active state where the polymer matrix is protonated, with a profound impact on the network reactivity and rheology. Carboxylic acids with different electronic or steric environments show clear reactivity trends and their fine-tuning resulted in the most thermally responsive VU vitrimers studied to date. Our findings point out that catalyst choice and design for vitrimers is only poorly informed by catalyst performance in more traditional chemical reactions (in solvent), and that a more tailored catalyst design holds great promise for the field of vitrimers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Van Lijsebetten
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC) and Laboratory of Organic Synthesis, Departement of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University Krijgslaan 281-S4 Ghent 9000 Belgium
| | - Stephan Maes
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC) and Laboratory of Organic Synthesis, Departement of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University Krijgslaan 281-S4 Ghent 9000 Belgium
| | - Johan M Winne
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC) and Laboratory of Organic Synthesis, Departement of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University Krijgslaan 281-S4 Ghent 9000 Belgium
| | - Filip E Du Prez
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC) and Laboratory of Organic Synthesis, Departement of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University Krijgslaan 281-S4 Ghent 9000 Belgium
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3
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Debruyne A, Okkelman IA, Heymans N, Pinheiro C, Hendrix A, Nobis M, Borisov SM, Dmitriev RI. Live Microscopy of Multicellular Spheroids with the Multimodal Near-Infrared Nanoparticles Reveals Differences in Oxygenation Gradients. ACS Nano 2024; 18:12168-12186. [PMID: 38687976 PMCID: PMC11100290 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c12539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Assessment of hypoxia, nutrients, metabolite gradients, and other hallmarks of the tumor microenvironment within 3D multicellular spheroid and organoid models represents a challenging analytical task. Here, we report red/near-infrared (NIR) emitting cell staining with O2-sensitive nanoparticles, which enable measurements of spheroid oxygenation on a conventional fluorescence microscope. Nanosensor probes, termed "MMIR" (multimodal infrared), incorporate an NIR O2-sensitive metalloporphyrin (PtTPTBPF) and deep red aza-BODIPY reference dyes within a biocompatible polymer shell, allowing for oxygen gradient quantification via fluorescence ratio and phosphorescence lifetime readouts. We optimized staining techniques and evaluated the nanosensor probe characteristics and cytotoxicity. Subsequently, we applied nanosensors to the live spheroid models based on HCT116, DPSCs, and SKOV3 cells, at rest, and treated with drugs affecting cell respiration. We found that the growth medium viscosity, spheroid size, and formation method influenced spheroid oxygenation. Some spheroids produced from HCT116 and dental pulp stem cells exhibited "inverted" oxygenation gradients, with higher core oxygen levels than the periphery. This contrasted with the frequently encountered "normal" gradient of hypoxia toward the core caused by diffusion. Further microscopy analysis of spheroids with an "inverted" gradient demonstrated metabolic stratification of cells within spheroids: thus, autofluorescence FLIM of NAD(P)H indicated the formation of a glycolytic core and localization of OxPhos-active cells at the periphery. Collectively, we demonstrate a strong potential of NIR-emitting ratiometric nanosensors for advanced microscopy studies targeting live and quantitative real-time monitoring of cell metabolism and hypoxia in complex 3D tissue models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela
C. Debruyne
- Tissue
Engineering and Biomaterials Group, Department of Human Structure
and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Irina A. Okkelman
- Tissue
Engineering and Biomaterials Group, Department of Human Structure
and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Ghent
Light
Microscopy Core, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nina Heymans
- Tissue
Engineering and Biomaterials Group, Department of Human Structure
and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Cláudio Pinheiro
- Laboratory
of Experimental Cancer Research, Department of Human Structure and
Repair, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer
Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - An Hendrix
- Laboratory
of Experimental Cancer Research, Department of Human Structure and
Repair, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer
Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Max Nobis
- Intravital
Imaging Expertise Center, VIB Center for Cancer Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sergey M. Borisov
- Institute
of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, Graz 8010, Austria
| | - Ruslan I. Dmitriev
- Tissue
Engineering and Biomaterials Group, Department of Human Structure
and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Ghent
Light
Microscopy Core, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Janssens LK, Van Uytfanghe K, Williams JB, Hering KW, Iula DM, Stove CP. Investigation of the intrinsic cannabinoid activity of hemp-derived and semisynthetic cannabinoids with β-arrestin2 recruitment assays-and how this matters for the harm potential of seized drugs. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03769-4. [PMID: 38735004 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Cultivation of industrial low-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) hemp has created an oversupply of cannabidiol (CBD)-rich products. The fact that phytocannabinoids, including CBD, can be used as precursors to synthetically produce a range of THC variants-potentially located in a legal loophole-has led to a diversification of cannabis recreational drug markets. 'Hemp-compliant', 'hemp-derived' and 'semisynthetic' cannabinoid products are emerging and being advertised as (legal) alternatives for Δ9-THC. This study included a large panel (n = 30) of THC isomers, homologs, and analogs that might be derived via semisynthetic procedures. As a proxy for the abuse potential of these compounds, we assessed their potential to activate the CB1 cannabinoid receptor with a β-arrestin2 recruitment bioassay (picomolar-micromolar concentrations). Multiple THC homologs (tetrahydrocannabihexol, THCH; tetrahydrocannabiphorol, THCP; tetrahydrocannabinol-C8, THC-C8) and THC analogs (hexahydrocannabinol, HHC; hexahydrocannabiphorol, HHCP) were identified that showed higher potential for CB1 activation than Δ9-THC, based on either higher efficacy (Emax) or higher potency (EC50). Structure-activity relationships were assessed for Δ9-THC and Δ8-THC homologs encompassing elongated alkyl chains. Additionally, stereoisomer-specific differences in CB1 activity were established for various THC isomers (Δ7-THC, Δ10-THC) and analogs (HHC, HHCP). Evaluation of the relative abundance of 9(S)-HHC and 9(R)-HHC epimers in seized drug material revealed varying epimeric compositions between batches. Increased abundance of the less active 9(S)-HHC epimer empirically resulted in decreased potency, but sustained efficacy for the resulting diastereomeric mixture. In conclusion, monitoring of semisynthetic cannabinoids is encouraged as the dosing and the relative composition of stereoisomers can impact the harm potential of these drugs, relative to Δ9-THC products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesl K Janssens
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis - Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katleen Van Uytfanghe
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis - Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jeffrey B Williams
- Forensic Chemistry Division, Cayman Chemical Company, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Kirk W Hering
- Forensic Chemistry Division, Cayman Chemical Company, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Donna M Iula
- Forensic Chemistry Division, Cayman Chemical Company, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Christophe P Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis - Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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5
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Godts S, Steiger M, Stahlbuhk A, Orr SA, Desarnaud J, De Clercq H, Cnudde V, De Kock T. Modeled versus Experimental Salt Mixture Behavior under Variable Humidity. ACS Omega 2024; 9:20454-20466. [PMID: 38737035 PMCID: PMC11080023 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c01486] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the kinetics of salt mixture crystallization under relative humidity (RH) conditions, varying between 15 and 95% (at 20 °C), to inform applications in built heritage preservation, geology, and environmental sciences. We focused on commonly found, sulfate-rich and calcium-rich salt mixtures containing five to six ions, Cl-, NO3-, Na+, and K+, including or excluding less common Mg2+, and including either an excess of SO42- or Ca2+, with respect to gypsum. Using time-lapse micrographs and dynamic vapor sorption, we explore how crystallization and dissolution behavior depend on RH and mixture composition under constant temperature. A range of RH change rates were studied to simulate realistic weather events. Microstructural analyses through environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) confirmed the crystal habit corresponding with RH transitions. Phases predicted from thermodynamic modeling (ECOS/RUNSALT) were confirmed using micro-Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and elemental mapping via energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). We identify a strong correlation between phase transition kinetics and RH change rates, with crystallization deviating by -15% and dissolution by +7% from modeled values under rapid (several seconds) and slow (several days) RH changes. These insights are important for preservation strategies in built heritage, salt deposition, and dissolution mechanisms in diverse geological and realistic environmental contexts, laboratory experiments, future modeling efforts, and the understanding of stone decay in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiaan Godts
- Monuments
Lab, Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage
(KIK-IRPA), Brussels 1000, Belgium
- Antwerp
Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES), University
of Antwerp, Ghent 9000, Belgium
- Department
of Geology (PProGRess), Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Michael Steiger
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Hamburg, Hamburg 20146, Germany
| | - Amelie Stahlbuhk
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Hamburg, Hamburg 20146, Germany
| | - Scott Allan Orr
- Institute
for Sustainable Heritage, University College
London (UCL), London WC1E 6BT, United
Kingdom
| | - Julie Desarnaud
- Monuments
Lab, Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage
(KIK-IRPA), Brussels 1000, Belgium
| | - Hilde De Clercq
- Monuments
Lab, Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage
(KIK-IRPA), Brussels 1000, Belgium
| | - Veerle Cnudde
- Department
of Geology (PProGRess), Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
- Department
of Earth Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht3584 CS, The Netherlands
| | - Tim De Kock
- Antwerp
Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES), University
of Antwerp, Ghent 9000, Belgium
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6
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Guden RM, Haegeman A, Ruttink T, Moens T, Derycke S. Nematodes alter the taxonomic and functional profiles of benthic bacterial communities: A metatranscriptomic approach. Mol Ecol 2024; 33:e17331. [PMID: 38533629 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Marine sediments cover 70% of the Earth's surface, and harbour diverse bacterial communities critical for marine biogeochemical processes, which affect climate change, biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Nematodes, the most abundant and species-rich metazoan organisms in marine sediments, in turn, affect benthic bacterial communities and bacterial-mediated ecological processes, but the underlying mechanisms by which they affect biogeochemical cycles remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate using a metatranscriptomic approach that nematodes alter the taxonomic and functional profiles of benthic bacterial communities. We found particularly strong stimulation of nitrogen-fixing and methane-oxidizing bacteria in the presence of nematodes, as well as increased functional activity associated with methane metabolism and degradation of various carbon compounds. This study provides empirical evidence that the presence of nematodes results in taxonomic and functional shifts in active bacterial communities, indicating that nematodes may play an important role in benthic ecosystem processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodgee Mae Guden
- Marine Biology Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelies Haegeman
- Plant Sciences Unit, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Melle, Belgium
| | - Tom Ruttink
- Plant Sciences Unit, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Melle, Belgium
| | - Tom Moens
- Marine Biology Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sofie Derycke
- Marine Biology Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Aquatic Environment and Quality, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Oostende, Belgium
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7
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Van Daele L, Chausse V, Parmentier L, Brancart J, Pegueroles M, Van Vlierberghe S, Dubruel P. 3D-Printed Shape Memory Poly(alkylene terephthalate) Scaffolds as Cardiovascular Stents Revealing Enhanced Endothelialization. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303498. [PMID: 38329408 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death and current treatments such as stents still suffer from disadvantages. Balloon expansion causes damage to the arterial wall and limited and delayed endothelialization gives rise to restenosis and thrombosis. New more performing materials that circumvent these disadvantages are required to improve the success rate of interventions. To this end, the use of a novel polymer, poly(hexamethylene terephthalate), is investigated for this application. The synthesis to obtain polymers with high molar masses up to 126.5 kg mol-1 is optimized and a thorough chemical and thermal analysis is performed. The polymers are 3D-printed into personalized cardiovascular stents using the state-of-the-art solvent-cast direct-writing technique, the potential of these stents to expand using their shape memory behavior is established, and it is shown that the stents are more resistant to compression than the poly(l-lactide) benchmark. Furthermore, the polymer's hydrolytic stability is demonstrated in an accelerated degradation study of 6 months. Finally, the stents are subjected to an in vitro biological evaluation, revealing that the polymer is non-hemolytic and supports significant endothelialization after only 7 days, demonstrating the enormous potential of these polymers to serve cardiovascular applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenny Van Daele
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group (PBM), Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4-bis, Ghent, B-9000, Belgium
| | - Victor Chausse
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), EEBE, Barcelona, 08019, Spain
| | - Laurens Parmentier
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group (PBM), Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4-bis, Ghent, B-9000, Belgium
| | - Joost Brancart
- Physical Chemistry and Polymer Science (FYSC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
| | - Marta Pegueroles
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), EEBE, Barcelona, 08019, Spain
| | - Sandra Van Vlierberghe
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group (PBM), Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4-bis, Ghent, B-9000, Belgium
| | - Peter Dubruel
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group (PBM), Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4-bis, Ghent, B-9000, Belgium
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8
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Acar T, Moreau S, Jardinaud MF, Houdinet G, Maviane-Macia F, De Meyer F, Hoste B, Leroux O, Coen O, Le Ru A, Peeters N, Carlier A. The association between Dioscorea sansibarensis and Orrella dioscoreae as a model for hereditary leaf symbiosis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302377. [PMID: 38648204 PMCID: PMC11034651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hereditary, or vertically-transmitted, symbioses affect a large number of animal species and some plants. The precise mechanisms underlying transmission of functions of these associations are often difficult to describe, due to the difficulty in separating the symbiotic partners. This is especially the case for plant-bacteria hereditary symbioses, which lack experimentally tractable model systems. Here, we demonstrate the potential of the leaf symbiosis between the wild yam Dioscorea sansibarensis and the bacterium Orrella dioscoreae (O. dioscoreae) as a model system for hereditary symbiosis. O. dioscoreae is easy to grow and genetically manipulate, which is unusual for hereditary symbionts. These properties allowed us to design an effective antimicrobial treatment to rid plants of bacteria and generate whole aposymbiotic plants, which can later be re-inoculated with bacterial cultures. Aposymbiotic plants did not differ morphologically from symbiotic plants and the leaf forerunner tip containing the symbiotic glands formed normally even in the absence of bacteria, but microscopic differences between symbiotic and aposymbiotic glands highlight the influence of bacteria on the development of trichomes and secretion of mucilage. This is to our knowledge the first leaf symbiosis where both host and symbiont can be grown separately and where the symbiont can be genetically altered and reintroduced to the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Acar
- LIPME, INRAE, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sandra Moreau
- LIPME, INRAE, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Bart Hoste
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Olivier Coen
- LIPME, INRAE, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | - Aurélie Le Ru
- Plateforme Imagerie TRI-FRAIB, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | - Nemo Peeters
- LIPME, INRAE, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | - Aurelien Carlier
- LIPME, INRAE, CNRS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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9
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Allaert Y, Leyder A, Franceus J, Desmet T. Strategies for the synthesis of the osmolyte glucosylglycerate and its precursor glycerate. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:297. [PMID: 38607564 PMCID: PMC11009771 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13139-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Glycosidic osmolytes are widespread natural compounds that protect microorganisms and their macromolecules from the deleterious effects of various environmental stresses. Their protective properties have attracted considerable interest for industrial applications, especially as active ingredients in cosmetics and healthcare products. In that regard, the osmolyte glucosylglycerate is somewhat overlooked. Glucosylglycerate is typically accumulated by certain organisms when they are exposed to high salinity and nitrogen starvation, and its potent stabilizing effects have been demonstrated in vitro. However, the applications of this osmolyte have not been thoroughly explored due to the lack of a cost-efficient production process. Here, we present an overview of the progress that has been made in developing promising strategies for the synthesis of glucosylglycerate and its precursor glycerate, and discuss the remaining challenges. KEY POINTS: • Bacterial milking could be explored for fermentative production of glucosylglycerate • Glycoside phosphorylases of GH13_18 represent attractive alternatives for biocatalytic production • Conversion of glycerol with alditol oxidase is a promising strategy for generating the precursor glycerate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yentl Allaert
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Arthur Leyder
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jorick Franceus
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Desmet
- Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Department of Biotechnology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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10
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Li T, Wang Y, Natran A, Zhang Y, Wang H, Du K, Qin P, Yuan H, Chen W, Tu B, Inzé D, Dubois M. C-TERMINAL DOMAIN PHOSPHATASE-LIKE 3 contributes to GA-mediated growth and flowering by interaction with DELLA proteins. New Phytol 2024. [PMID: 38594216 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Gibberellic acid (GA) plays a central role in many plant developmental processes and is crucial for crop improvement. DELLA proteins, the core suppressors in the GA signaling pathway, are degraded by GA via the 26S proteasomal pathway to release the GA response. However, little is known about the phosphorylation-mediated regulation of DELLA proteins. In this study, we combined GA response assays with protein-protein interaction analysis to infer the connection between Arabidopsis thaliana DELLAs and the C-TERMINAL DOMAIN PHOSPHATASE-LIKE 3 (CPL3), a phosphatase involved in the dephosphorylation of RNA polymerase II. We show that CPL3 directly interacts with DELLA proteins and promotes DELLA protein stability by inhibiting its degradation by the 26S proteasome. Consequently, CPL3 negatively modulates multiple GA-mediated processes of plant development, including hypocotyl elongation, flowering time, and anthocyanin accumulation. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that CPL3 serves as a novel regulator that could improve DELLA stability and thereby participate in GA signaling transduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, China
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Gent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Gent, Belgium
| | - Yongqin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, China
| | - Annelore Natran
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Gent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Gent, Belgium
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kangxi Du
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Peng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hua Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, China
| | - Weilan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, Rice Research Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dirk Inzé
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Gent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Gent, Belgium
| | - Marieke Dubois
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Gent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Gent, Belgium
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11
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Van Der Schueren C, Decruyenaere P, Avila Cobos F, Bult J, Deleu J, Dipalo LL, Helsmoortel HH, Hulstaert E, Morlion A, Ramos Varas E, Schoofs K, Trypsteen W, Vanden Eynde E, Van Droogenbroeck H, Verniers K, Vandesompele J, Decock A. Subpar reporting of pre-analytical variables in RNA-focused blood plasma studies. Mol Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38564603 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular RNA (cell-free RNA; exRNA) from blood-derived liquid biopsies is an appealing, minimally invasive source of disease biomarkers. As pre-analytical variables strongly influence exRNA measurements, their reporting is essential for meaningful interpretation and replication of results. The aim of this review was to chart to what extent pre-analytical variables are documented, to pinpoint shortcomings and to improve future reporting. In total, 200 blood plasma exRNA studies published in 2018 or 2023 were reviewed for annotation of 22 variables associated with blood collection, plasma preparation, and RNA purification. Our results show that pre-analytical variables are poorly documented, with only three out of 22 variables described in over half of the publications. The percentage of variables reported ranged from 4.6% to 54.6% (mean 24.84%) in 2023 and from 4.6% to 57.1% (mean 28.60%) in 2018. Recommendations and guidelines (i.e., BRISQ, ASCO-CAP, BloodPAC, PPMPT, and CEN standards) have currently not resulted in improved reporting. In conclusion, our results highlight the lack of reporting pre-analytical variables in exRNA studies and advocate for a consistent use of available standards, endorsed by funders and journals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Philippe Decruyenaere
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Francisco Avila Cobos
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Johanna Bult
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jill Deleu
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Laudonia Lidia Dipalo
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Hetty Hilde Helsmoortel
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Eva Hulstaert
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
- Department of Dermatology, AZ Sint-Blasius, Belgium
| | - Annelien Morlion
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Elena Ramos Varas
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Kathleen Schoofs
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
- Translational Oncogenomics and Bioinformatics Lab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB-UGent, Belgium
| | - Wim Trypsteen
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Eveline Vanden Eynde
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Hanne Van Droogenbroeck
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Kimberly Verniers
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
| | - Jo Vandesompele
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
- CellCarta, Belgium
| | - Anneleen Decock
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
- OncoRNALab, Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Belgium
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12
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Audoor S, Bilcke G, Pargana K, Belišová D, Thierens S, Van Bel M, Sterck L, Rijsdijk N, Annunziata R, Ferrante MI, Vandepoele K, Vyverman W. Transcriptional chronology reveals conserved genes involved in pennate diatom sexual reproduction. Mol Ecol 2024; 33:e17320. [PMID: 38506152 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Sexual reproduction is a major driver of adaptation and speciation in eukaryotes. In diatoms, siliceous microalgae with a unique cell size reduction-restitution life cycle and among the world's most prolific primary producers, sex also acts as the main mechanism for cell size restoration through the formation of an expanding auxospore. However, the molecular regulators of the different stages of sexual reproduction and size restoration are poorly explored. Here, we combined RNA sequencing with the assembly of a 55 Mbp reference genome for Cylindrotheca closterium to identify patterns of gene expression during different stages of sexual reproduction. These were compared with a corresponding transcriptomic time series of Seminavis robusta to assess the degree of expression conservation. Integrative orthology analysis revealed 138 one-to-one orthologues that are upregulated during sex in both species, among which 56 genes consistently upregulated during cell pairing and gametogenesis, and 11 genes induced when auxospores are present. Several early, sex-specific transcription factors and B-type cyclins were also upregulated during sex in other pennate and centric diatoms, pointing towards a conserved core regulatory machinery for meiosis and gametogenesis across diatoms. Furthermore, we find molecular evidence that the pheromone-induced cell cycle arrest is short-lived in benthic diatoms, which may be linked to their active mode of mate finding through gliding. Finally, we exploit the temporal resolution of our comparative analysis to report the first marker genes for auxospore identity called AAE1-3 ("Auxospore-Associated Expression"). Altogether, we introduce a multi-species model of the transcriptional dynamics during size restoration in diatoms and highlight conserved gene expression dynamics during different stages of sexual reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sien Audoor
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gust Bilcke
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katerina Pargana
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Darja Belišová
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sander Thierens
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michiel Van Bel
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lieven Sterck
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nadine Rijsdijk
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Maria Immacolata Ferrante
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
- Associate to the National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics, Trieste, Italy
| | - Klaas Vandepoele
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for AI & Computational Biology, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Vyverman
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
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13
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De Paepe E, Plekhova V, Vangeenderhuysen P, Baeck N, Bullens D, Claeys T, De Graeve M, Kamoen K, Notebaert A, Van de Wiele T, Van Den Broeck W, Vanlede K, Van Winckel M, Vereecke L, Elliott C, Cox E, Vanhaecke L. Integrated gut metabolome and microbiome fingerprinting reveals that dysbiosis precedes allergic inflammation in IgE-mediated pediatric cow's milk allergy. Allergy 2024; 79:949-963. [PMID: 38193259 DOI: 10.1111/all.16005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy (IgE-CMA) is one of the first allergies to arise in early childhood and may result from exposure to various milk allergens, of which β-lactoglobulin (BLG) and casein are the most important. Understanding the underlying mechanisms behind IgE-CMA is imperative for the discovery of novel biomarkers and the design of innovative treatment and prevention strategies. METHODS We report a longitudinal in vivo murine model, in which two mice strains (BALB/c and C57Bl/6) were sensitized to BLG using either cholera toxin or an oil emulsion (n = 6 per group). After sensitization, mice were challenged orally, their clinical signs monitored, antibody (IgE and IgG1) and cytokine levels (IL-4 and IFN-γ) measured, and fecal samples subjected to metabolomics. The results of the murine models were further extrapolated to fecal microbiome-metabolome data from our population of IgE-CMA (n = 22) and healthy (n = 23) children (Trial: NCT04249973), on which polar metabolomics, lipidomics and 16S rRNA metasequencing were performed. In vitro gastrointestinal digestions and multi-omics corroborated the microbial origin of proposed metabolic changes. RESULTS During mice sensitization, we observed multiple microbially derived metabolic alterations, most importantly bile acid, energy and tryptophan metabolites, that preceded allergic inflammation. We confirmed microbial dysbiosis, and its associated effect on metabolic alterations in our patient cohort, through in vitro digestions and multi-omics, which was accompanied by metabolic signatures of low-grade inflammation. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that gut dysbiosis precedes allergic inflammation and nurtures a chronic low-grade inflammation in children on elimination diets, opening important new opportunities for future prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen De Paepe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics (LIMET), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Vera Plekhova
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics (LIMET), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Pablo Vangeenderhuysen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics (LIMET), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Nele Baeck
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology, AZ Jan Palfijn Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dominique Bullens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Allergy and Immunology Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Clinical Division of Pediatrics, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tania Claeys
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition & General Pediatric Medicine, AZ Sint-Jan Bruges, Bruges, Belgium
| | - Marilyn De Graeve
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics (LIMET), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Kristien Kamoen
- Department of Pediatrics, Maria Middelares Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anneleen Notebaert
- Department of Pediatrics, Sint-Vincentius Hospital Deinze, Deinze, Belgium
| | - Tom Van de Wiele
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET), Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Den Broeck
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Koen Vanlede
- Department of General Pediatrics, VITAZ, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
| | - Myriam Van Winckel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lars Vereecke
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chris Elliott
- School of Biological Sciences, Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Cox
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Immunology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lynn Vanhaecke
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Laboratory of Integrative Metabolomics (LIMET), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
- School of Biological Sciences, Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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14
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Gysens L, Martens A, Haspeslagh M. Longitudinal pilot study examining the effect of punch biopsy on equine sarcoid growth dynamics. Vet Dermatol 2024; 35:148-155. [PMID: 38168049 DOI: 10.1111/vde.13236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonexcisional tissue biopsies facilitate pre-operative confirmation of equine sarcoid yet fear of lesion deterioration currently limits its use in the diagnostic workup. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of a single punch biopsy on tumour growth dynamics [thickness, area, circumference, viral load (VL) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS)]. ANIMALS Six client-owned horses with 11 sarcoids of various classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS Growth dynamics were recorded on a weekly basis, 12 weeks pre- and 24 weeks post-biopsy. The effect of a single punch biopsy on growth dynamics was estimated by linear mixed-effect models. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (SRCC) was calculated to investigate correlations with the number of weeks before and after the intervention. RESULTS While statistically significant post-biopsy changes were recorded for all parameters except VL, no parameter was consistently increased after the biopsy intervention. In two of 11 sarcoids, the VL correlation pattern revealed significant strong correlations: sarcoid 6 (pre: r = -0.66, p < 0.05; post: r = 0.81, p < 0.001), increased VL; and sarcoid 8 (pre: r = 0.85, p < 0.001; post: r = 0.17, p > 0.05), no further increase after biopsy. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Our results indicate that post-biopsy lesion deterioration is not a general concept that applies to all sarcoids, and both deterioration or improvement are possible outcomes over a 24-week period. Further clinical studies with a larger sample size are needed before a definitive conclusion can be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien Gysens
- Department of Large Animal Surgery, Anaesthesia and Orthopaedics of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Martens
- Department of Large Animal Surgery, Anaesthesia and Orthopaedics of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Maarten Haspeslagh
- Department of Large Animal Surgery, Anaesthesia and Orthopaedics of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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15
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Vernemmen I, Van Steenkiste G, Buschmann E, Cornelis K, Schauvliege S, Ibrahim L, Decloedt A, van Loon G. Development of an atrial transseptal puncture procedure in horses to access the left heart: An ultrasound-guided jugular vein and transhepatic approach. Equine Vet J 2024. [PMID: 38522423 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiofrequency ablation has been successfully applied to treat right atrial arrhythmias in horses. Ablation of left-sided arrhythmias requires a retrograde transarterial approach which is complicated. In human medicine, the left atrium is accessed through transseptal puncture (TSP) of the fossa ovalis (FO) using a caudal approach via the femoral vein. OBJECTIVES To develop a zero fluoroscopy TSP technique for horses using a jugular vein (cranial) and transhepatic (caudal) approach. STUDY DESIGN In vivo experimental study. METHODS Transseptal puncture was performed in 18 horses admitted for euthanasia and donated for scientific research under general anaesthesia: using a jugular vein approach (10 horses), a transhepatic approach (2 horses) or both (6 horses). Radiofrequency energy was applied on a guidewire to perforate the FO and allow sheath advancement under intracardiac and transthoracic echocardiographic guidance. Puncture lesions were inspected post-mortem. RESULTS Transseptal puncture was successful in 17/18 horses, of which 15/16 jugular vein approaches and 5/8 transhepatic approaches. Failure was due to technical malfunction, inability to advance the guidewire toward the heart and inability to advance the sheath through the FO. Intracardiac echocardiography was essential to safely guide the puncture process. Atrial arrhythmias caused by the TSP occurred in 13/18 horses. Puncture lesions were found in the right atrium in the FO region, and left atrium ventral to pulmonary vein ostium III. MAIN LIMITATIONS Because in several horses two approaches were tested consecutively, it cannot be excluded that the second TSP was performed at the previous puncture site. Due to the developmental nature of the study the approaches were not randomised and did not allow comparison. CONCLUSION Transseptal puncture is feasible in horses using ultrasound guidance and allows for electrophysiological exploration of the left heart. Further studies are needed to evaluate post-operative follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Vernemmen
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Glenn Van Steenkiste
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Eva Buschmann
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kristoff Cornelis
- Cardiology Department, Maria Middelares Heart Centre, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn Schauvliege
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology of Domestic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lara Ibrahim
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gunther van Loon
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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16
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Jans M, Vereecke L. A guide to germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse technology to study health and disease. FEBS J 2024. [PMID: 38523409 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The intestinal microbiota has major influence on human physiology and modulates health and disease. Complex host-microbe interactions regulate various homeostatic processes, including metabolism and immune function, while disturbances in microbiota composition (dysbiosis) are associated with a plethora of human diseases and are believed to modulate disease initiation, progression and therapy response. The vast complexity of the human microbiota and its metabolic output represents a great challenge in unraveling the molecular basis of host-microbe interactions in specific physiological contexts. To increase our understanding of these interactions, functional microbiota research using animal models in a reductionistic setting are essential. In the dynamic landscape of gut microbiota research, the use of germ-free and gnotobiotic mouse technology, in which causal disease-driving mechanisms can be dissected, represents a pivotal investigative tool for functional microbiota research in health and disease, in which causal disease-driving mechanisms can be dissected. A better understanding of the health-modulating functions of the microbiota opens perspectives for improved therapies in many diseases. In this review, we discuss practical considerations for the design and execution of germ-free and gnotobiotic experiments, including considerations around germ-free rederivation and housing conditions, route and timing of microbial administration, and dosing protocols. This comprehensive overview aims to provide researchers with valuable insights for improved experimental design in the field of functional microbiota research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maude Jans
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Lars Vereecke
- VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Belgium
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17
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Chen Y, De Schutter K. Biosafety aspects of RNAi-based pests control. Pest Manag Sci 2024. [PMID: 38520331 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
While the overuse of classical chemical pesticides has had a detrimental impact on the environment and human health, the discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) offered the opportunity to develop new and sustainable approaches for pest management. RNAi is a naturally occurring regulation and defense mechanism that can be exploited to effectively protect crops by silencing key genes affecting the growth, development, behavior or fecundity of pests. However, as with all technologies, there is a range of potential risks and challenges associated with the application of RNAi, such as dsRNA stability, the potential for off-target effects, the safety of non-target organisms, and other application challenges. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in RNAi and in-depth discussion and analysis of these associated safety risks, is required to limit or mitigate potential adverse effects. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Chen
- Molecular Entomology Lab, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kristof De Schutter
- Molecular Entomology Lab, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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18
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Vandevelde M, Simoens A, Vandekerckhove B, Stevens C. Synthesis and bioactivity of psilocybin analogues containing a stable carbon-phosphorus bond. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:998-1002. [PMID: 38516602 PMCID: PMC10953488 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00043a] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Psilocybin analogues have been synthesized comprising a non-hydrolysable P-C bond to evaluate the biological activity and the selectivity towards 5-HT2AR, 5-HT2BR and the TNAP receptor. No activity was observed towards the phosphatase, however all compounds showed good binding affinity for 5-HT2AR and 5-HT2BR and one compound showed a higher selectivity towards 5-HT2AR than psilocin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe Vandevelde
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Synthesis, Bioresources and Bioorganic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University Coupure Links 653 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Andreas Simoens
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Synthesis, Bioresources and Bioorganic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University Coupure Links 653 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Bavo Vandekerckhove
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Synthesis, Bioresources and Bioorganic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University Coupure Links 653 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Christian Stevens
- Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Synthesis, Bioresources and Bioorganic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University Coupure Links 653 9000 Ghent Belgium
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19
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Fan Y, Pavani KC, Smits K, Van Soom A, Peelman L. tRNA Glu-derived fragments from embryonic extracellular vesicles modulate bovine embryo hatching. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:23. [PMID: 38424649 PMCID: PMC10905895 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-00997-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) have been shown to be involved in early embryo development and repression of endogenous retroelements in embryos and stem cells. However, it is unknown whether tsRNAs also regulate embryo hatching. In this study, we mined the sequencing data of a previous experiment in which we demonstrated that the microRNA (miRNA) cargo of preimplantation embryonic extracellular vesicles (EVs) influences embryo development. We thus profiled the tsRNA cargo of EVs secreted by blastocysts and non-blastocysts. The majority of tsRNAs was identified as tRNA halves originating from the 5´ ends of tRNAs. Among the 148 differentially expressed tsRNAs, the 19 nt tRNA fragment (tRF) tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 was found to be significantly up-regulated in EVs derived from non-blastocysts. RT-qPCR assays confirmed its significant up-regulation in non-blastocyst embryos and their conditioned medium compared to the blastocyst group (P < 0.05). Inhibition of tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 by supplementing antagomirs to the conditioned medium improved embryo hatching (P < 0.05). Transcriptomic analysis of embryos treated with tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 antagomirs further showed differential expression of genes that are associated with embryo hatching and implantation. In summary, tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 is up-regulated in non-blastocyst embryos and their secretions, and inhibition of tDR-14:32-Glu-CTC-1 promotes embryo hatching, while influencing embryo implantation-related genes and pathways. These results indicate that embryonic EVs containing specific tRFs may regulate preimplantation embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fan
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Krishna Chaitanya Pavani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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20
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Van Gerrewey T, Chung HS. MAPK Cascades in Plant Microbiota Structure and Functioning. J Microbiol 2024; 62:231-248. [PMID: 38587594 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-024-00114-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are highly conserved signaling modules that coordinate diverse biological processes such as plant innate immunity and development. Recently, MAPK cascades have emerged as pivotal regulators of the plant holobiont, influencing the assembly of normal plant microbiota, essential for maintaining optimal plant growth and health. In this review, we provide an overview of current knowledge on MAPK cascades, from upstream perception of microbial stimuli to downstream host responses. Synthesizing recent findings, we explore the intricate connections between MAPK signaling and the assembly and functioning of plant microbiota. Additionally, the role of MAPK activation in orchestrating dynamic changes in root exudation to shape microbiota composition is discussed. Finally, our review concludes by emphasizing the necessity for more sophisticated techniques to accurately decipher the role of MAPK signaling in establishing the plant holobiont relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thijs Van Gerrewey
- Plant Biotechnology Research Center, Department of Environmental Technology, Food Technology and Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, 21985, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoo Sun Chung
- Plant Biotechnology Research Center, Department of Environmental Technology, Food Technology and Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, 21985, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium.
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21
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Semmouri I, De Schamphelaere KAC, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Deforce D, Janssen CR, Asselman J. Contribution of combined stressors on density and gene expression dynamics of the copepod Temora longicornis in the North Sea. Mol Ecol 2024:e17312. [PMID: 38426368 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The impact of multiple environmental and anthropogenic stressors on the marine environment remains poorly understood. Therefore, we studied the contribution of environmental variables to the densities and gene expression of the dominant zooplankton species in the Belgian part of the North Sea, the calanoid copepod Temora longicornis. We observed a reduced density of copepods, which were also smaller in size, in samples taken from nearshore locations when compared to those obtained from offshore stations. To assess the factors influencing the population dynamics of this species, we applied generalised additive models. These models allowed us to quantify the relative contribution of temperature, nutrient levels, salinity, turbidity, concentrations of photosynthetic pigments, as well as chemical pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), on copepod density. Temperature and Secchi depth, a proxy for turbidity, were the most important environmental variables predicting the densities of T. longicornis, followed by summed PAH and chlorophyll concentrations. Analysing gene expression in field-collected adults, we observed significant variation in metabolic and stress-response genes. Temperature correlated significantly with genes involved in proteolytic activities, and encoding heat shock proteins. Yet, concentrations of anthropogenic chemicals did not induce significant differences in the gene expression of genes involved in the copepod's fatty acid metabolism or well-known stress-related genes, such as glutathione transferases or cytochrome P450. Our study highlights the potential of gene expression biomonitoring and underscores the significance of a changing environment in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Semmouri
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Ostend, Belgium
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karel A C De Schamphelaere
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Filip Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dieter Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Colin R Janssen
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Ostend, Belgium
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jana Asselman
- Blue Growth Research Lab, Ghent University, Ostend, Belgium
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22
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Bourgois G, Mucci P, Souren T, Bourgois JG, Boone J, Colosio AL. Performance of two metabolic carts for cardiopulmonary exercise testing (MetaLyzer 3B and Oxycon Pro) in different climatic conditions. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14599. [PMID: 38454613 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Gil Bourgois
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Univ Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, Lille, France
| | - Patrick Mucci
- Univ Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, Lille, France
| | - Tjeu Souren
- Independent Consultant, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan G Bourgois
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan Boone
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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23
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Engelen S, Dolinski ND, Chen C, Ghimire E, Lindberg CA, Crolais AE, Nitta N, Winne JM, Rowan SJ, Du Prez FE. Vinylogous Urea-Urethane Vitrimers: Accelerating and Inhibiting Network Dynamics through Hydrogen Bonding. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202318412. [PMID: 38198567 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202318412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Vinylogous urethane (VUO ) based polymer networks are widely used as catalyst-free vitrimers that show rapid covalent bond exchange at elevated temperatures. In solution, vinylogous ureas (VUN ) undergo much faster bond exchange than VUO and are highly dynamic at room temperature. However, this difference in reactivity is not observed in their respective dynamic polymer networks, as VUO and VUN vitrimers prepared herein with very similar macromolecular architectures show comparable stress relaxation and creep behavior. However, by using mixtures of VUO and VUN linkages within the same network, the dynamic reactions can be accelerated by an order of magnitude. The results can be rationalized by the effect of intermolecular hydrogen bonding, which is absent in VUO vitrimers, but is very pronounced for vinylogous urea moieties. At low concentrations of VUN , these hydrogen bonds act as catalysts for covalent bond exchange, while at high concentration, they provide a pervasive vinylogous urea - urethane (VU) network of strong non-covalent interactions, giving rise to phase separation and inhibiting polymer chain dynamics. This offers a straightforward design principle for dynamic polymer materials, showing at the same time the possible additive and synergistic effects of supramolecular and dynamic covalent polymer networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Engelen
- Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Neil D Dolinski
- Prtizker School of Molecular Engineering at, University of Chicago, IL 60637, Chicago, USA
| | - Chuqiao Chen
- Prtizker School of Molecular Engineering at, University of Chicago, IL 60637, Chicago, USA
| | - Elina Ghimire
- Prtizker School of Molecular Engineering at, University of Chicago, IL 60637, Chicago, USA
| | - Charlie A Lindberg
- Prtizker School of Molecular Engineering at, University of Chicago, IL 60637, Chicago, USA
| | - Alex E Crolais
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Natsumi Nitta
- Prtizker School of Molecular Engineering at, University of Chicago, IL 60637, Chicago, USA
| | - Johan M Winne
- Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stuart J Rowan
- Prtizker School of Molecular Engineering at, University of Chicago, IL 60637, Chicago, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Filip E Du Prez
- Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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24
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De Franceschi I, Badi N, Du Prez FE. Telechelic sequence-defined oligoamides: their step-economical synthesis, depolymerization and use in polymer networks. Chem Sci 2024; 15:2805-2816. [PMID: 38404375 PMCID: PMC10882489 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc04820a] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The application of sequence-defined macromolecules in material science remains largely unexplored due to their challenging, low yielding and time-consuming synthesis. This work first describes a step-economical method for synthesizing unnatural sequence-defined oligoamides through fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl chemistry. The use of a monodisperse soluble support enables homogeneous reactions at elevated temperature (up to 65 °C), leading to rapid coupling times (<10 min) and improved synthesis protocols. Moreover, a one-pot procedure for the two involved iterative steps is demonstrated via an intermediate quenching step, eliminating the need for in-between purification. The protocol is optimized using γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) as initial amino acid, and the unique ability of the resulting oligomers to depolymerize, with the formation of cyclic γ-butyrolactame, is evidenced. Furthermore, in order to demonstrate the versatility of the present protocol, a library of 17 unnatural amino acid monomers is synthesized, starting from the readily available GABA-derivative 4-amino-2-hydroxybutanoic acid, and then used to create multifunctional tetramers. Notably, the obtained tetramers show higher thermal stability than a similar thiolactone-based sequence-defined macromolecule, which enables its exploration within a material context. To that end, a bidirectional growth approach is proposed as a greener alternative that reduces the number of synthetic steps to obtain telechelic sequence-defined oligoamides. The latter are finally used as macromers for the preparation of polymer networks. We expect this strategy to pave the way for the further exploration of sequence-defined macromolecules in material science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene De Franceschi
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Nezha Badi
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University 9000 Ghent Belgium
| | - Filip E Du Prez
- Polymer Chemistry Research Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University 9000 Ghent Belgium
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25
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Braun M, Schroé H, Van Dyck D, Crombez G, De Paepe AL. The relationship of affective and bodily states with goals and plans to increase physical activity: An 8-day study in students. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2024; 16:273-295. [PMID: 37667612 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Planning is an important tool to translate intentions into physical activity (PA) behavior. Affective and bodily states are known to influence how much PA individuals perform, but their impact on to formulation of PA plans is not yet known. The aim of the current study is to explore the effect of within- and between-subject variations in affective and bodily states on the content of PA goals and plans. Over eight consecutive days, 362 students created action and coping plans to achieve their daily PA goals. They also reported their affective and bodily states. Generalized linear mixed effect models were used to analyze the associations between these states and the content of the goals and plans. The results showed that both between- and within-subject variations in affective and bodily states were associated with goals formulated in terms of minutes, the intensity and context of planned activities, and anticipated barriers, though more effects were found for within-subject differences. Affective and bodily states impact daily PA goals and plans, highlighting the dynamic nature of planning. Our findings can be a first step toward personalized suggestions for goals, action plans, and coping strategies that are based on individual affective and bodily states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Braun
- Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Helene Schroé
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Delfien Van Dyck
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Crombez
- Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annick L De Paepe
- Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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26
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Li Z, Pulopulos M, Allaert J, De Smet S, De Wandel L, Kappen M, Puttevils L, Razza LB, Schoonjans E, Vanhollebeke G, Baeken C, De Raedt R, Vanderhasselt MA. Vagally-mediated HRV as a marker of trait rumination in healthy individuals? A large cross-sectional analysis. Psychophysiology 2024; 61:e14448. [PMID: 37779356 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The tendency to ruminate (i.e., repetitive, self-referential, negative thoughts) is a maladaptive form of emotional regulation and represents a transdiagnostic vulnerability factor for stress-related psychopathology. Vagally-mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV) provides a non-invasive, surrogate measure of vagal modulation of the heart, and higher HRV is considered an indicator of susceptibility, or ability to respond to stress. Past research has suggested a link between trait rumination and vmHRV; however, inconsistent results exist in healthy individuals. In this study, we investigated the association between the tendency to ruminate, brooding, and reflection (using the Ruminative Response Scale) with vmHRV measured at baseline in a healthy population using a large cross-sectional dataset (N = 1189, 88% female; mean age = 21.55, ranging from 17 to 48 years old), which was obtained by combining samples of healthy individuals from different studies from our laboratory. The results showed no cross-sectional correlation between vmHRV and trait rumination (confirmed by Bayesian analysis), even after controlling for important confounders such as gender, age, and depressive symptoms. Also, a non-linear relationship was rejected. In summary, based on our results in a large sample of healthy individuals, vmHRV is not a marker of trait rumination (as measured by the Ruminative Response Scale).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zefeng Li
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matias Pulopulos
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jens Allaert
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefanie De Smet
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Linde De Wandel
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mitchel Kappen
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Louise Puttevils
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lais B Razza
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Emmanuelle Schoonjans
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gert Vanhollebeke
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chris Baeken
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Psychiatry (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Ixelles, Belgium
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Rudi De Raedt
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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27
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Flamant N, Haerens L, Vansteenkiste M, Van Petegem S, Soenens B. Are All Negotiations Equally Favorable? The Role of Adolescents' Negotiation Style, Social Domain, and Mothers' Authoritarian Beliefs and Family History. J Youth Adolesc 2024; 53:485-505. [PMID: 37831430 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-023-01880-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Although negotiation is generally considered an adaptive means for adolescents to express disagreement in the parent-child relationship, previous research on the correlates of adolescents' negotiation has reported rather mixed results. This may be because parents do not always positively appraise and respond to adolescents' negotiation. The key aim of the present study was to better understand variability in mothers' appraisals and responses to adolescents' negotiation attempts. This was done by examining whether their appraisals and responses vary as a function of adolescents' negotiation style, social domain, and mothers' personal characteristics (i.e., authoritarian beliefs and their own history of being parented). A total of 476 mothers of 9th and 10th grade adolescents in Belgium (Mage mothers = 44.93 years old, SD = 4.07; Mage adolescents = 14.88, SD = 0.75, 51.7% boys) participated in a vignette-based experimental study. Mothers completed questionnaires assessing authoritarian beliefs and their own history of being parented, and read a vignette-based scenario depicting an adolescent's negotiation attempt. Using a between-person 2 × 2 design, adolescents' negotiation style (autonomy-supportive versus controlling) and social domain (personal versus multifaceted) were experimentally manipulated. Mothers were more likely to positively appraise and respond in more constructive ways if adolescents adopted an autonomy-supportive instead of a controlling negotiation style, and when the situation involved a personal rather than a multifaceted issue. Mothers with high authoritarian beliefs and those with a history of being parented in a psychologically controlling way, had a more negative attitude towards adolescents' negotiation. Overall, the results suggest that the success of adolescents' negotiation depends on how, about what, and with whom they negotiate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Flamant
- Department of Developmental, Social, and Personality Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Leen Haerens
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maarten Vansteenkiste
- Department of Developmental, Social, and Personality Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn Van Petegem
- Research Center on Development, Family, and Human Systems (DEFASY), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- , F.R.S.-FNRS Research Associate, Belgium
| | - Bart Soenens
- Department of Developmental, Social, and Personality Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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28
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Krols S, Matteucci F, Van Hecke K, Caljon G, Jacobson KA, Van Calenbergh S. Dual N6/C7-Substituted 7-Deazapurine and Tricyclic Ribonucleosides with Affinity for G Protein-Coupled Receptors. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:81-86. [PMID: 38229744 PMCID: PMC10789135 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Various purine-based nucleoside analogues have demonstrated unexpected affinity for nonpurinergic G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), such as opioid and serotonin receptors. In this work, we synthesized a small library of new 7-deazaadenosine and pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine riboside analogues, featuring dual C7 and N6 modifications and assessed their affinity for various GPCRs. During the course of the synthesis of 7-ethynyl pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine ribosides, we observed the formation of an unprecedented tricyclic nucleobase, formed via a 6-endo-dig ring closure. The synthesis of this tricyclic nucleoside was optimized, and the substrate scope for such cyclization was further explored because it might avail further exploration in the nucleoside field. From displacement experiments on a panel of GPCRs and transporters, combining C7 and N6 modifications afforded noncytotoxic nucleosides with micromolar and submicromolar affinity for different GPCRs, such as the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)2B, κ-opioid (KOR), and σ1/2 receptor. These results corroborate that the novel nucleoside analogues reported here are potentially useful starting points for the further development of modulators of GPCRs and transmembrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Krols
- Laboratory
for Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Federica Matteucci
- Laboratory
for Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kristof Van Hecke
- XStruct,
Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S3, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Caljon
- Laboratory
of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Kenneth A. Jacobson
- Molecular
Recognition Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National
Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Serge Van Calenbergh
- Laboratory
for Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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29
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Goossens E, Deblock L, Caboor L, Eynden DVD, Josipovic I, Isaacura PR, Maksimova E, Van Impe M, Bonnin A, Segers P, Cornillie P, Boone MN, Van Driessche I, De Spiegelaere W, De Roo J, Sips P, De Buysser K. From Corrosion Casting to Virtual Dissection: Contrast-Enhanced Vascular Imaging using Hafnium Oxide Nanocrystals. Small Methods 2024:e2301499. [PMID: 38200600 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Vascular corrosion casting is a method used to visualize the three dimensional (3D) anatomy and branching pattern of blood vessels. A polymer resin is injected in the vascular system and, after curing, the surrounding tissue is removed. The latter often deforms or even fractures the fragile cast. Here, a method is proposed that does not require corrosion, and is based on in situ micro computed tomography (micro-CT) scans. To overcome the lack of CT contrast between the polymer cast and the animals' surrounding soft tissue, hafnium oxide nanocrystals (HfO2 NCs) are introduced as CT contrast agents into the resin. The NCs dramatically improve the overall CT contrast of the cast and allow for straightforward segmentation in the CT scans. Careful design of the NC surface chemistry ensures the colloidal stability of the NCs in the casting resin. Using only 5 m% of HfO2 NCs, high-quality cardiovascular casts of both zebrafish and mice can be automatically segmented using CT imaging software. This allows to differentiate even μ $\umu$ m-scale details without having to alter the current resin injection methods. This new method of virtual dissection by visualizing casts in situ using contrast-enhanced CT imaging greatly expands the application potential of the technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline Goossens
- Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Loren Deblock
- Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Lisa Caboor
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Dietger Van den Eynden
- Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Iván Josipovic
- Center for X-ray Tomography, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Pablo Reyes Isaacura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Morphology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, 9820, Belgium
- Centre for Polymer Material Technologies, Ghent University, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
- Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
| | - Elizaveta Maksimova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen PSI, 5232, Switzerland
- Swiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel, Basel, 4056, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Van Impe
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Anne Bonnin
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen PSI, 5232, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Segers
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Pieter Cornillie
- Laboratory of Veterinary Morphology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, 9820, Belgium
| | - Matthieu N Boone
- Center for X-ray Tomography, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | | | - Ward De Spiegelaere
- Laboratory of Veterinary Morphology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, 9820, Belgium
| | - Jonathan De Roo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Sips
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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Dueñas Rey A, Del Pozo Valero M, Bouckaert M, Wood KA, Van den Broeck F, Daich Varela M, Thomas HB, Van Heetvelde M, De Bruyne M, Van de Sompele S, Bauwens M, Lenaerts H, Mahieu Q, Josifova D, Rivolta C, O'Keefe RT, Ellingford J, Webster AR, Arno G, Ayuso C, De Zaeytijd J, Leroy BP, De Baere E, Coppieters F. Combining a prioritization strategy and functional studies nominates 5'UTR variants underlying inherited retinal disease. Genome Med 2024; 16:7. [PMID: 38184646 PMCID: PMC10771650 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-023-01277-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 5' untranslated regions (5'UTRs) are essential modulators of protein translation. Predicting the impact of 5'UTR variants is challenging and rarely performed in routine diagnostics. Here, we present a combined approach of a comprehensive prioritization strategy and functional assays to evaluate 5'UTR variation in two large cohorts of patients with inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). METHODS We performed an isoform-level re-analysis of retinal RNA-seq data to identify the protein-coding transcripts of 378 IRD genes with highest expression in retina. We evaluated the coverage of their 5'UTRs by different whole exome sequencing (WES) kits. The selected 5'UTRs were analyzed in whole genome sequencing (WGS) and WES data from IRD sub-cohorts from the 100,000 Genomes Project (n = 2397 WGS) and an in-house database (n = 1682 WES), respectively. Identified variants were annotated for 5'UTR-relevant features and classified into seven categories based on their predicted functional consequence. We developed a variant prioritization strategy by integrating population frequency, specific criteria for each category, and family and phenotypic data. A selection of candidate variants underwent functional validation using diverse approaches. RESULTS Isoform-level re-quantification of retinal gene expression revealed 76 IRD genes with a non-canonical retina-enriched isoform, of which 20 display a fully distinct 5'UTR compared to that of their canonical isoform. Depending on the probe design, 3-20% of IRD genes have 5'UTRs fully captured by WES. After analyzing these regions in both cohorts, we prioritized 11 (likely) pathogenic variants in 10 genes (ARL3, MERTK, NDP, NMNAT1, NPHP4, PAX6, PRPF31, PRPF4, RDH12, RD3), of which 7 were novel. Functional analyses further supported the pathogenicity of three variants. Mis-splicing was demonstrated for the PRPF31:c.-9+1G>T variant. The MERTK:c.-125G>A variant, overlapping a transcriptional start site, was shown to significantly reduce both luciferase mRNA levels and activity. The RDH12:c.-123C>T variant was found in cis with the hypomorphic RDH12:c.701G>A (p.Arg234His) variant in 11 patients. This 5'UTR variant, predicted to introduce an upstream open reading frame, was shown to result in reduced RDH12 protein but unaltered mRNA levels. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the importance of 5'UTR variants implicated in IRDs and provides a systematic approach for 5'UTR annotation and validation that is applicable to other inherited diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Dueñas Rey
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Marta Del Pozo Valero
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
- Department of Genetics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, University Hospital, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manon Bouckaert
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Katherine A Wood
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicines and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Filip Van den Broeck
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head & Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Malena Daich Varela
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Huw B Thomas
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicines and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mattias Van Heetvelde
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Marieke De Bruyne
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Stijn Van de Sompele
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Miriam Bauwens
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Hanne Lenaerts
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Quinten Mahieu
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | | | - Carlo Rivolta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Raymond T O'Keefe
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicines and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jamie Ellingford
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicines and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Genomics England, London, UK
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew R Webster
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gavin Arno
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Carmen Ayuso
- Department of Genetics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, University Hospital, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julie De Zaeytijd
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head & Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart P Leroy
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head & Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Division of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Frauke Coppieters
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium.
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Germonpré J, Vandekerckhove LMJ, Raes E, Chiers K, Jans L, Vanderperren K. Post-mortem feasibility of dual-energy computed tomography in the detection of bone edema-like lesions in the equine foot: a proof of concept. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1201017. [PMID: 38249561 PMCID: PMC10797750 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1201017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In this proof-of-concept study, the post-mortem feasibility of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in the detection of bone edema-like lesions in the equine foot is described in agreement with the gold standard imaging technique, which is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods A total of five equine cadaver feet were studied, of which two were pathological and three were within normal limits and served as references. A low-field MRI of each foot was performed, followed by a DECT acquisition. Multiplanar reformations of DECT virtual non-calcium images were compared with MRI for the detection of bone edema-like lesions. A gross post-mortem was performed, and histopathologic samples were obtained of the navicular and/or distal phalanx of the two feet selected based on pathology and one reference foot. Results On DECT virtual non-calcium imaging, the two pathological feet showed diffuse increased attenuation corresponding with bone edema-like lesions, whereas the three reference feet were considered normal. These findings were in agreement with the findings on the MRI. Histopathology of the two pathologic feet showed abnormalities in line with bone edema-like lesions. Histopathology of the reference foot was normal. Conclusion DECT virtual non-calcium imaging can be a valuable diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of bone edema-like lesions in the equine foot. Further examination of DECT in equine diagnostic imaging is warranted in a larger cohort, different locations, and alive animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolien Germonpré
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Louis M. J. Vandekerckhove
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Els Raes
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Koen Chiers
- Department of Pathobiology, Pharmacology, and Zoological Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lennart Jans
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Vanderperren
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Aregawi WG, Levecke B, Ashenafi H, Byaruhanga C, Kebede N, Mulinge E, Wassermann M, Romig T, Dorny P, Dermauw V. Epidemiology of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato in the Greater Horn of Africa: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011894. [PMID: 38271288 PMCID: PMC10810510 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a neglected zoonotic disease that is caused by Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.), the life cycle of which involves multiple hosts. We conducted a systematic review (SR) on E. granulosus s.l. in the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA), to provide a picture of its recent epidemiology across all hosts. METHODS For this SR, conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, five electronic databases, as well experts in the region were consulted to retrieve records published between 2000 and 2022, reporting the presence of E. granulosus s.l. infections in any natural host in the GHA (Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda). PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A total of 247 records were retained, describing the presence of E. granulosus s.l. throughout the GHA, except for Djibouti. Only few population surveys on human CE were conducted in the area, with the prevalence ranging between 0.3 and 11.3%. In animals, the reported prevalence ranged up to 61.6% in camels, 88.4% in cattle; 65.2% in goats, 9.9% in pigs, 67.8% in sheep and 94.5% in dogs. In addition, E. granulosus s.l. was also reported in wildlife. A total of five species were reported in the different hosts, namely E. granulosus sensu stricto (G1, G3, GOmo), E. canadensis (G6/7), E. ortleppi (G5), E. felidis, and E. equinus (G4). CONCLUSIONS We confirm that E. granulosus s.l. is prevalent throughout the GHA. Nevertheless, despite our efforts to screen grey literature, an accurate assessment of the epidemiology in GHA remains challenging, due to the lack of combined host, in-depth risk factor and behavioural studies, as well as the wide diversity in subpopulations studied and diagnostic tools used. Interdisciplinary and transboundary partnerships would be essential for the design of effective control strategies, tuned to the GHA setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weldegebrial G. Aregawi
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bruno Levecke
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hagos Ashenafi
- Unit of Animal Health and Zoonotic Diseases Research, Addis Ababa University, Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Charles Byaruhanga
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nigatu Kebede
- Unit of Animal Health and Zoonotic Diseases Research, Addis Ababa University, Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Thomas Romig
- Parasitology Unit, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Veronique Dermauw
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Van den Broecke A, Decruyenaere A, Schuermans N, Verdin H, Ghijsels J, Sieben A, Dermaut B, Hemelsoet D. Pooled analysis of patients with inherited prion disease caused by two- to twelve-octapeptide repeat insertions in the prion protein gene (PRNP). J Neurol 2024; 271:263-273. [PMID: 37689591 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11968-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Inherited prion diseases caused by two- to twelve-octapeptide repeat insertions (OPRIs) in the prion protein gene (PRNP) show significant clinical heterogeneity. This study describes a family with two new cases with a 4-OPRI mutation and two asymptomatic mutation carriers. The pooled analysis summarizes all cases reported in the literature to date and describes the relation between survival, age of onset, number of OPRI and codon 129 polymorphism. MEDLINE and Google Scholar were queried from database inception up to December 31, 2022. Age of onset was compared per number of OPRI and per codon 129 polymorphism using the Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests, respectively. Disease duration was modeled non-parametrically by a Kaplan-Meier model and semi-parametrically by a Cox model. This study comprised 164 patients. Lower number of OPRI and presence of valine (cis-V) versus methionine (cis-M) on codon 129 were associated with an older age of onset (P < 0.001 and P = 0.025, respectively) and shorter disease duration (P < 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Within patients with 5- or more OPRI codon cis-V remained significantly associated with a shorter disease duration. Codon 129 homozygosity versus heterozygosity was not significantly associated with age of onset or disease duration (P = 0.076 and P = 0.409, respectively). This study summarized the largest cohort of patients with two- to twelve-OPRI to date. Lower number of OPRI and codon 129 cis-V is associated with an older age of onset and shorter disease duration, while homozygosity or heterozygosity on codon 129 was not.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nika Schuermans
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hannah Verdin
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jody Ghijsels
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Sieben
- Born-Bunge Institute, Laboratory for Neuropathology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bart Dermaut
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Bertels X, Ross JC, Faner R, Cho MH, Ikram MA, Brusselle GG, Lahousse L. Clinical relevance of lung function trajectory clusters in middle-aged and older adults. ERJ Open Res 2024; 10:00793-2023. [PMID: 38333649 PMCID: PMC10851953 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00793-2023] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The determinants and health outcomes of lung function trajectories in adults among the general population are poorly understood. We aimed to identify and characterise clusters of lung function trajectories in adults aged ≥45 years. Methods Gaussian finite-mixture modelling was applied to baseline and annualised change of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC ratio z-scores in participants of the Rotterdam Study, a prospective population-based cohort study, with repeated spirometry (n=3884; mean±sd age 64.7±8.9 years). Longitudinal outcomes were all-cause mortality, respiratory outcomes (symptoms, COPD (FEV1/FVC <0.7 in absence of asthma), preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm; FEV1/FVC ≥0.7 and FEV1 or FVC <80%)), smoking cessation and weight changes. Independent risk factors, including genetics, were identified by multiple logistic regression. Results We identified eight trajectory clusters, with the reference group having persistently normal spirometry (prevalence 42.8%). Three clusters showed higher mortality, adjusted for confounders: 1) the persistently low FEV1 cluster (prevalence 6.8%, hazard ratio (HR) 1.71, 95% CI 1.37-2.13); 2) rapid FEV1 decliners (prevalence 4.6%, HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.10-1.99); and 3) FVC decliners (prevalence 3.7%, HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.09-2.03). In contrast, FVC improvers (prevalence 6.7%, HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.41-0.90) and persistently high FEV1 (prevalence 29.2%, HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69-0.98) were protective trajectory clusters. Clusters were characterised by differences in genetic predisposition (polygenic scores of FEV1 and FEV1/FVC), demographics, cigarette smoking, respiratory symptoms (chronic cough, wheezing and dyspnoea), cardiovascular factors (body mass index, hypertension and heart failure) and serum C-reactive protein levels. Frailty, weight changes and the development of respiratory symptoms, COPD and PRISm were significantly associated with trajectory clusters. Conclusions This study reveals clinically relevant lung function trajectory clusters in older adults of the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xander Bertels
- Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James C. Ross
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rosa Faner
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomédiques August Pi i Sunyer, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michael H. Cho
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M. Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guy G. Brusselle
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lies Lahousse
- Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Mariën Q, Regueira A, Ganigué R. Steerable isobutyric and butyric acid production from CO 2 and H 2 by Clostridium luticellarii. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14321. [PMID: 37649327 PMCID: PMC10832561 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Clostridium luticellarii is a recently discovered acetogen that is uniquely capable of producing butyric and isobutyric acid from various substrates (e.g. methanol), but it is unclear which factors influence its (iso)butyric acid production from H2 and CO2 . We aimed to investigate the autotrophic metabolism of C. luticellarii by identifying the necessary growth conditions and examining the effects of pH and metabolite levels on product titers and selectivity. Results show that autotrophic growth of C. luticellarii requires the addition of complex nutrient sources and the absence of shaking conditions. Further experiments combined with thermodynamic calculations identified pH as a key parameter governing the direction of metabolic fluxes. At circumneutral pH (~6.5), acetic acid is the sole metabolic end product but C. luticellarii possesses the unique ability to co-oxidize organic acids such as valeric acid under high H2 partial pressures (>1 bar). Conversely, mildly acidic pH (≤5.5) stimulates the production of butyric and isobutyric acid while partly halting the oxidation of organic acids. Additionally, elevated acetic acid concentrations stimulated butyric and isobutyric acid production up to a combined selectivity of 53 ± 3%. Finally, our results suggest that isobutyric acid is produced by a reversible isomerization of butyric acid, but valeric and caproic acid are not isomerized. These combined insights can inform future efforts to optimize and scale-up the production of valuable chemicals from CO2 using C. luticellarii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quinten Mariën
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET)Ghent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Center for Advanced Process Technology for Urban Resource Recovery (CAPTURE)GhentBelgium
| | - Alberte Regueira
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET)Ghent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Center for Advanced Process Technology for Urban Resource Recovery (CAPTURE)GhentBelgium
- CRETUS, Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversidade de Santiago de CompostelaSantiago de CompostelaSpain
| | - Ramon Ganigué
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET)Ghent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Center for Advanced Process Technology for Urban Resource Recovery (CAPTURE)GhentBelgium
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Manosalva Pérez N, Ferrari C, Engelhorn J, Depuydt T, Nelissen H, Hartwig T, Vandepoele K. MINI-AC: inference of plant gene regulatory networks using bulk or single-cell accessible chromatin profiles. Plant J 2024; 117:280-301. [PMID: 37788349 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) represent the interactions between transcription factors (TF) and their target genes. Plant GRNs control transcriptional programs involved in growth, development, and stress responses, ultimately affecting diverse agricultural traits. While recent developments in accessible chromatin (AC) profiling technologies make it possible to identify context-specific regulatory DNA, learning the underlying GRNs remains a major challenge. We developed MINI-AC (Motif-Informed Network Inference based on Accessible Chromatin), a method that combines AC data from bulk or single-cell experiments with TF binding site (TFBS) information to learn GRNs in plants. We benchmarked MINI-AC using bulk AC datasets from different Arabidopsis thaliana tissues and showed that it outperforms other methods to identify correct TFBS. In maize, a crop with a complex genome and abundant distal AC regions, MINI-AC successfully inferred leaf GRNs with experimentally confirmed, both proximal and distal, TF-target gene interactions. Furthermore, we showed that both AC regions and footprints are valid alternatives to infer AC-based GRNs with MINI-AC. Finally, we combined MINI-AC predictions from bulk and single-cell AC datasets to identify general and cell-type specific maize leaf regulators. Focusing on C4 metabolism, we identified diverse regulatory interactions in specialized cell types for this photosynthetic pathway. MINI-AC represents a powerful tool for inferring accurate AC-derived GRNs in plants and identifying known and novel candidate regulators, improving our understanding of gene regulation in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Manosalva Pérez
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Camilla Ferrari
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julia Engelhorn
- Molecular Physiology Department, Heinrich-Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, 50829, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Depuydt
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hilde Nelissen
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thomas Hartwig
- Molecular Physiology Department, Heinrich-Heine University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, 50829, Cologne, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Klaas Vandepoele
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Bioinformatics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
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37
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Janssens S, Rennen S, Agostinis P. Decoding immunogenic cell death from a dendritic cell perspective. Immunol Rev 2024; 321:350-370. [PMID: 38093416 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are myeloid cells bridging the innate and adaptive immune system. By cross-presenting tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) liberated upon spontaneous or therapy-induced tumor cell death to T cells, DCs occupy a pivotal position in the cancer immunity cycle. Over the last decades, the mechanisms linking cancer cell death to DC maturation, have been the focus of intense research. Growing evidence supports the concept that the mere transfer of TAAs during the process of cell death is insufficient to drive immunogenic DC maturation unless this process is coupled with the release of immunomodulatory signals by dying cancer cells. Malignant cells succumbing to a regulated cell death variant called immunogenic cell death (ICD), foster a proficient interface with DCs, enabling their immunogenic maturation and engagement of adaptive immunity against cancer. This property relies on the ability of ICD to exhibit pathogen-mimicry hallmarks and orchestrate the emission of a spectrum of constitutively present or de novo-induced danger signals, collectively known as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In this review, we discuss how DCs perceive and decode danger signals emanating from malignant cells undergoing ICD and provide an outlook of the major signaling and functional consequences of this interaction for DCs and antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Janssens
- Laboratory for ER Stress and Inflammation, Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sofie Rennen
- Laboratory for ER Stress and Inflammation, Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Patrizia Agostinis
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Buschmann E, Van Steenkiste G, Duytschaever M, Boussy T, Vernemmen I, Ibrahim L, Schauvliege S, Decloedt A, van Loon G. Successful caudal vena cava and pulmonary vein isolation in healthy horses using 3D electro-anatomical mapping and a contact force-guided ablation system. Equine Vet J 2023. [PMID: 38151793 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, treatment of equine atrial tachycardia by three-dimensional electro-anatomical mapping (3D EAM) and radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) has been described. Myocardial sleeves in the caudal vena cava and pulmonary veins are a potential trigger for initiation and perpetuation of atrial tachycardia and atrial fibrillation in the horse. Isolation of these myocardial sleeves by RFCA may be an effective treatment for these arrhythmias. OBJECTIVES To describe the feasibility of 3D EAM and RFCA to isolate caudal vena cava and pulmonary veins in adult horses using 3D mapping and a contact force (CF)-guided ablation system. STUDY DESIGN In vivo experiments. METHODS 3D EAM and RFCA was performed in five horses without cardiovascular disease under general anaesthesia, using the CF-guided system CARTO®3. Point-by-point RFCA aimed for isolation of caudal vena cava and pulmonary veins. Radiofrequency energy was delivered in power-controlled mode with a target power of 45 W, CF between 10 and 15 g and 30 mL/min irrigation rate, until an ablation-index of 450-500 was reached. RESULTS In the right atrium, myocardial sleeves of the caudal vena cava were isolated (n = 5). In the left atrium, isolation of ostium II (n = 3), ostium III (n = 1) and ostium I, II and III en bloc (n = 1) was performed. Successful isolation was confirmed by entrance and exit block. MAIN LIMITATIONS Horses were euthanised at the end of the procedure, so long term effects such as potential reconnection of isolated veins could not be studied. CONCLUSIONS This is the first description of 3D EAM and RFCA with CARTO®3 in horses, thereby showing the technical feasibility and successful caudal vena cava and pulmonary vein isolation. CF measurement allowed monitoring of catheter-tissue contact, resulting in efficient acute lesion creation as confirmed by entrance and exit block. This is a promising treatment for cardiac arrhythmias in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Buschmann
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Glenn Van Steenkiste
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | | | - Tim Boussy
- Department of Cardiology, AZ Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Ingrid Vernemmen
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lara Ibrahim
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Stijn Schauvliege
- Department of Large Animal Surgery, Anaesthesia and Orthopaedics, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Annelies Decloedt
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Gunther van Loon
- Equine Cardioteam Ghent, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Borgmans S, Rogge SMJ, Vanduyfhuys L, Van Speybroeck V. OGRe: Optimal Grid Refinement Protocol for Accurate Free Energy Surfaces and Its Application in Proton Hopping in Zeolites and 2D COF Stacking. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:9032-9048. [PMID: 38084847 PMCID: PMC10753773 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.3c01028] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
While free energy surfaces are the crux of our understanding of many chemical and biological processes, their accuracy is generally unknown. Moreover, many developments to improve their accuracy are often complicated, limiting their general use. Luckily, several tools and guidelines are already in place to identify these shortcomings, but they are typically lacking in flexibility or fail to systematically determine how to improve the accuracy of the free energy calculation. To overcome these limitations, this work introduces OGRe, a Python package for optimal grid refinement in an arbitrary number of dimensions. OGRe is based on three metrics that gauge the confinement, consistency, and overlap of each simulation in a series of umbrella sampling (US) simulations, an enhanced sampling technique ubiquitously adopted to construct free energy surfaces for hindered processes. As these three metrics are fundamentally linked to the accuracy of the weighted histogram analysis method adopted to generate free energy surfaces from US simulations, they facilitate the systematic construction of accurate free energy profiles, where each metric is driven by a specific umbrella parameter. This allows for the derivation of a consistent and optimal collection of umbrellas for each simulation, largely independent of the initial values, thereby dramatically increasing the ease-of-use toward accurate free energy surfaces. As such, OGRe is particularly suited to determine complex free energy surfaces with large activation barriers and shallow minima, which underpin many physical and chemical transformations and hence to further our fundamental understanding of these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander Borgmans
- Center for Molecular Modeling (CMM), Ghent University, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 46, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Sven M. J. Rogge
- Center for Molecular Modeling (CMM), Ghent University, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 46, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Louis Vanduyfhuys
- Center for Molecular Modeling (CMM), Ghent University, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 46, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Veronique Van Speybroeck
- Center for Molecular Modeling (CMM), Ghent University, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 46, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
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40
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Pang C, Deng YH, Kheradmand E, Poonkottil N, Petit R, Elsinger L, Detavernier C, Geiregat P, Hens Z, Van Thourhout D. Integrated PbS Colloidal Quantum Dot Photodiodes on Silicon Nitride Waveguides. ACS Photonics 2023; 10:4215-4224. [PMID: 38145169 PMCID: PMC10741659 DOI: 10.1021/acsphotonics.3c00945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have become a versatile optoelectronic material for emitting and detecting light that can overcome the limitations of a range of electronic and photonic technology platforms. Photonic integrated circuits (PICs), for example, face the persistent challenge of combining active materials with passive circuitry ideally suited for guiding light. Here, we demonstrate the integration of photodiodes (PDs) based on PbS QDs on silicon nitride waveguides (WG). Analyzing planar QDPDs first, we argue that the main limitation WG-coupled QDPDs face is detector saturation induced by the high optical power density of the guided light. Using the cladding thickness and waveguide width as design parameters, we mitigate this issue, and we demonstrate WG-QDPDs with an external quantum efficiency of 67.5% at 1275 nm that exhibit a linear photoresponse for input powers up to 400 nW. In the next step, we demonstrate a compact infrared spectrometer by integrating these WG-QDPDs on the output channels of an arrayed waveguide grating demultiplexer. This work provides a path toward a low-cost PD solution for PICs, which are attractive for large-scale production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Pang
- Photonics
Research Group, Ghent University - imec, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yu-Hao Deng
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Physics
and Chemistry of Nanostructures Group, Ghent
University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ezat Kheradmand
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Physics
and Chemistry of Nanostructures Group, Ghent
University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nithin Poonkottil
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Conformal
Coating of Nanomaterials Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Robin Petit
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Conformal
Coating of Nanomaterials Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lukas Elsinger
- Photonics
Research Group, Ghent University - imec, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Detavernier
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Conformal
Coating of Nanomaterials Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Geiregat
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Physics
and Chemistry of Nanostructures Group, Ghent
University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Zeger Hens
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- Physics
and Chemistry of Nanostructures Group, Ghent
University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dries Van Thourhout
- Photonics
Research Group, Ghent University - imec, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
- NB
Photonics, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
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41
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De Wannemaeker L, Mey F, Bervoets I, Ver Cruysse M, Baldwin GS, De Mey M. Standardization of Fluorescent Reporter Assays in Synthetic Biology across the Visible Light Spectrum. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:3591-3607. [PMID: 37981737 PMCID: PMC10729763 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
In synthetic biology, Fluorescent reporters are frequently used to characterize the expression levels obtained from both genetic parts such as promoters and ribosome binding sites as well as from complex genetic circuits. To this end, plate readers offer an easy and high-throughput way of characterizing both the growth and fluorescence expression levels of cell cultures. However, despite the similar mode of action used in different devices, their output is not comparable due to intrinsic differences in their setup. Additionally, the generated output is expressed using arbitrary units, limiting reliable comparison of results to measurements taken within one single experiment using one specific plate reader, hampering the transferability of data across different plate readers and laboratories. This article presents an easy and accessible calibration method for transforming the device-specific output into a standardized output expressing the amount of fluorescence per well as a known equivalent fluorophore concentration per cell for fluorescent reporters spanning the visible light spectrum. This calibration method follows a 2-fold approach determining both the estimated number of cells and the equivalent chemical fluorophore concentration per well. It will contribute to the comparison of plate reader experiments between different laboratories across the world and will therefore greatly improve the reliability and exchange of both results and genetic parts between research groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien De Wannemaeker
- Centre
for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Friederike Mey
- Centre
for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Indra Bervoets
- Vrije
Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michiel Ver Cruysse
- Centre
for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geoff S. Baldwin
- Imperial
College London, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Marjan De Mey
- Centre
for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Strobbe S, Verstraete J, Fitzpatrick TB, Stove C, Van Der Straeten D. A protocol for a turbidimetric assay using a Saccharomyces cerevisiae thiamin biosynthesis mutant to estimate total vitamin B 1 content in plant tissue samples. Plant Methods 2023; 19:144. [PMID: 38093342 PMCID: PMC10717716 DOI: 10.1186/s13007-023-01117-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding thiamin (thiamine; vitamin B1) metabolism in plants is crucial, as it impacts plant nutritional value as well as stress tolerance. Studies aimed at elucidating novel aspects of thiamin in plants rely on adequate assessment of thiamin content. Mass spectrometry-based methods provide reliable quantification of thiamin as well as closely related biomolecules. However, these techniques require expensive equipment and expertise. Microbiological turbidimetric assays can evaluate the presence of thiamin in a given sample, only requiring low-cost, standard lab equipment. Although these microbiological assays do not reach the accuracy provided by mass spectrometry-based methods, the ease with which they can be deployed in an inexpensive and high-throughput manner, makes them a favorable method in many circumstances. However, the thiamin research field could benefit from a detailed step-by-step protocol to perform such assays as well as a further assessment of its potential and limitations. RESULTS Here, we show that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae thiamin biosynthesis mutant thi6 is an ideal candidate to be implemented in a turbidimetric assay aimed at assessing the content of thiamin and its phosphorylated equivalents (total vitamer B1). An optimized protocol was generated, adapted from a previously established microbiological assay using the thi4 mutant. A step-by-step guidance for this protocol is presented. Furthermore, the applicability of the assay is illustrated by assessment of different samples, including plant as well as non-plant materials. In doing so, our work provides an extension of the applicability of the microbiological assay on top of providing important considerations upon implementing the protocol. CONCLUSIONS An inexpensive, user-friendly protocol, including step-by-step guidance, which allows adequate estimation of vitamer B1 content of samples, is provided. The method is well-suited to screen materials to identify altered vitamer B1 content, such as in metabolic engineering or screening of germplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Strobbe
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L, Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jana Verstraete
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Teresa B Fitzpatrick
- Vitamins and Environmental Stress Responses in Plants, Department of Botany and Plant Biology, University of Geneva, Quai E. Ansermet 30, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christophe Stove
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dominique Van Der Straeten
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L, Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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43
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Van Lancker K, Dukes O, Vansteelandt S. Ensuring valid inference for Cox hazard ratios after variable selection. Biometrics 2023; 79:3096-3110. [PMID: 37349873 DOI: 10.1111/biom.13889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
The problem of how to best select variables for confounding adjustment forms one of the key challenges in the evaluation of exposure effects in observational studies, and has been the subject of vigorous recent activity in causal inference. A major drawback of routine procedures is that there is no finite sample size at which they are guaranteed to deliver exposure effect estimators and associated confidence intervals with adequate performance. In this work, we will consider this problem when inferring conditional causal hazard ratios from observational studies under the assumption of no unmeasured confounding. The major complication that we face with survival data is that the key confounding variables may not be those that explain the censoring mechanism. In this paper, we overcome this problem using a novel and simple procedure that can be implemented using off-the-shelf software for penalized Cox regression. In particular, we will propose tests of the null hypothesis that the exposure has no effect on the considered survival endpoint, which are uniformly valid under standard sparsity conditions. Simulation results show that the proposed methods yield valid inferences even when covariates are high-dimensional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Van Lancker
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Oliver Dukes
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn Vansteelandt
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Wang Q, De Gernier H, Duan X, Xie Y, Geelen D, Hayashi KI, Xuan W, Geisler M, Ten Tusscher K, Beeckman T, Vanneste S. GH3-mediated auxin inactivation attenuates multiple stages of lateral root development. New Phytol 2023; 240:1900-1912. [PMID: 37743759 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Lateral root (LR) positioning and development rely on the dynamic interplay between auxin production, transport but also inactivation. Nonetheless, how the latter affects LR organogenesis remains largely uninvestigated. Here, we systematically analyze the impact of the major auxin inactivation pathway defined by GRETCHEN HAGEN3-type (GH3) auxin conjugating enzymes and DIOXYGENASE FOR AUXIN OXIDATION1 (DAO1) in all stages of LR development using reporters, genetics and inhibitors in Arabidopsis thaliana. Our data demonstrate that the gh3.1/2/3/4/5/6 hextuple (gh3hex) mutants display a higher LR density due to increased LR initiation and faster LR developmental progression, acting epistatically over dao1-1. Grafting and local inhibitor applications reveal that root and shoot GH3 activities control LR formation. The faster LR development in gh3hex is associated with GH3 expression domains in and around developing LRs. The increase in LR initiation is associated with accelerated auxin response oscillations coinciding with increases in apical meristem size and LR cap cell death rates. Our research reveals how GH3-mediated auxin inactivation attenuates LR development. Local GH3 expression in LR primordia attenuates development and emergence, whereas GH3 effects on pre-initiation stages are indirect, by modulating meristem activities that in turn coordinate root growth with LR spacing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wang
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hugues De Gernier
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Xingliang Duan
- MOA Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilization in Lower-Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River and State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yuanming Xie
- MOA Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilization in Lower-Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River and State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Danny Geelen
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Ken-Ishiro Hayashi
- Department of Bioscience, Okayama University of Science, Okayama, 700-0005, Japan
| | - Wei Xuan
- MOA Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and Fertilization in Lower-Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River and State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Markus Geisler
- Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, CH-1700, Switzerland
| | - Kirsten Ten Tusscher
- Computational Developmental Biology Group, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584 CH, the Netherlands
| | - Tom Beeckman
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steffen Vanneste
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, 9052, Belgium
- Center for Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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45
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Bourgois G, Mucci P, Boone J, Colosio AL, Bourgois JG, Pogliaghi S, Caen K. Critical power, W' and W' reconstitution in women and men. Eur J Appl Physiol 2023; 123:2791-2801. [PMID: 37369796 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05268-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare critical power (CP) and work capacity W', and W' reconstitution (W'REC) following repeated maximal exercise between women and men. METHODS Twelve women ([Formula: see text]O2PEAK: 2.53 ± 0.37 L·min-1) and 12 men ([Formula: see text]O2PEAK: 4.26 ± 0.30 L·min-1) performed a minimum of 3 constant workload tests, to determine CP and W', and 1 maximal exercise repetition test with three work bouts (WB) to failure, to quantify W'REC during 2 recovery periods, i.e., W'REC1 and W'REC2. An independent samples t test was used to compare CP and W' values between women and men, and a repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare W'REC as fraction of W' expended during the first WB, absolute W'REC, and normalized to lean body mass (LBM). RESULTS CP normalized to LBM was not different between women and men, respectively, 3.7 ± 0.5 vs. 4.1 ± 0.4 W·kgLBM-1, while W' normalized to LBM was lower in women 256 ± 29 vs. 305 ± 45 J·kgLBM-1. Fractional W'REC1 was higher in women than in men, respectively, 74.0 ± 12.0% vs. 56.8 ± 9.5%. Women reconstituted less W' than men in absolute terms (8.7 ± 1.2 vs. 10.9 ± 2.0 kJ) during W'REC1, while normalized to LBM no difference was observed between women and men (174 ± 23 vs. 167 ± 31 J·kgLBM-1). W'REC2 was lower than W'REC1 both in women and men. CONCLUSION Sex differences in W'REC (absolute women < men; fractional women > men) are eliminated when LBM is accounted for. Prediction models of W'REC might benefit from including LBM as a biological variable in the equation. This study confirms the occurrence of a slowing of W'REC during repeated maximal exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Bourgois
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, 59000, Lille, France
| | - Patrick Mucci
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ULR 7369-URePSSS-Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, 59000, Lille, France
| | - Jan Boone
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Alessandro L Colosio
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan G Bourgois
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Silvia Pogliaghi
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Kevin Caen
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Center of Sports Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Ahmmed MK, Bhowmik S, Ahmmed F, Giteru SG, Islam SS, Hachem M, Hussain MA, Kanwugu ON, Agyei D, Defoirdt T. Utilisation of probiotics for disease management in giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii): Administration methods, antagonistic effects and immune response. J Fish Dis 2023; 46:1321-1336. [PMID: 37658593 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.13850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
The giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) is a high-yielding prawn variety well-received worldwide due to its ability to adapt to freshwater culture systems. Macrobrachium rosenbergii is an alternative to shrimp typically obtained from marine and brackish aquaculture systems. However, the use of intensive culture systems can lead to disease outbreaks, particularly in larval and post-larval stages, caused by pathogenic agents such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, yeasts and protozoans. White tail disease (viral), white spot syndrome (viral) and bacterial necrosis are examples of economically significant diseases. Given the increasing antibiotic resistance of disease-causing microorganisms, probiotics have emerged as promising alternatives for disease control. Probiotics are live active microbes that are introduced into a target host in an adequate number or dose to promote its health. In the present paper, we first discuss the diseases that occur in M. rosenbergii production, followed by an in-depth discussion on probiotics. We elaborate on the common methods of probiotics administration and explain the beneficial health effects of probiotics as immunity enhancers. Moreover, we discuss the antagonistic effects of probiotics on pathogenic microorganisms. Altogether, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of disease control in M. rosenbergii aquaculture through the use of probiotics, which could enhance the sustainability of prawn culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirja Kaizer Ahmmed
- Department of Fishing and Post-harvest Technology, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chittagong, Bangladesh
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Shuva Bhowmik
- Centre for Bioengineering and Nanomedicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Food Science, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Fatema Ahmmed
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Stephen G Giteru
- Department of Food Science, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Alliance Group Limited, Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - Shikder Saiful Islam
- Fisheries and Marine Resource Technology Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Mayssa Hachem
- Department of Chemistry and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Md Ashraf Hussain
- Department of Fisheries Technology and Quality Control, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology and School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Osman N Kanwugu
- Institute of Chemical Engineering, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Dominic Agyei
- Department of Food Science, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Tom Defoirdt
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Van Lint S, Van Parys A, Van Den Eeckhout B, Vandamme N, Plaisance S, Verhee A, Catteeuw D, Rogge E, De Geest J, Vanderroost N, Roels J, Saeys Y, Uzé G, Kley N, Cauwels A, Tavernier J. A bispecific Clec9A-PD-L1 targeted type I interferon profoundly reshapes the tumor microenvironment towards an antitumor state. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:191. [PMID: 38031106 PMCID: PMC10685570 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01908-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite major improvements in immunotherapeutic strategies, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment remains a major obstacle for the induction of efficient antitumor responses. In this study, we show that local delivery of a bispecific Clec9A-PD-L1 targeted type I interferon (AcTaferon, AFN) overcomes this hurdle by reshaping the tumor immune landscape.Treatment with the bispecific AFN resulted in the presence of pro-immunogenic tumor-associated macrophages and neutrophils, increased motility and maturation profile of cDC1 and presence of inflammatory cDC2. Moreover, we report empowered diversity in the CD8+ T cell repertoire and induction of a shift from naive, dysfunctional CD8+ T cells towards effector, plastic cytotoxic T lymphocytes together with increased presence of NK and NKT cells as well as decreased regulatory T cell levels. These dynamic changes were associated with potent antitumor activity. Tumor clearance and immunological memory, therapeutic immunity on large established tumors and blunted tumor growth at distant sites were obtained upon co-administration of a non-curative dose of chemotherapy.Overall, this study illuminates further application of type I interferon as a safe and efficient way to reshape the suppressive tumor microenvironment and induce potent antitumor immunity; features which are of major importance in overcoming the development of metastases and tumor cell resistance to immune attack. The strategy described here has potential for application across to a broad range of cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Van Lint
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alexander Van Parys
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- Present Affiliation: Orionis Biosciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bram Van Den Eeckhout
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Niels Vandamme
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Single Cell Core, VIB, Ghent-Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Annick Verhee
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dominiek Catteeuw
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Rogge
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Present Affiliation: Orionis Biosciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jennifer De Geest
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Present Affiliation: Orionis Biosciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nele Vanderroost
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jana Roels
- VIB Single Cell Core, VIB, Ghent-Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yvan Saeys
- Data Mining and Modelling for Biomedicine, VIB & Center for inflammation research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Faculty of Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gilles Uzé
- IRMB, University Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Niko Kley
- Orionis Biosciences, Ghent, Belgium
- Orionis Biosciences, Boston, USA
| | - Anje Cauwels
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Present Affiliation: Orionis Biosciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan Tavernier
- Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB & Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
- Orionis Biosciences, Ghent, Belgium.
- Orionis Biosciences, Boston, USA.
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Khan R, Chakraborty J, Singh Rawat K, Morent R, De Geyter N, Van Speybroeck V, Van Der Voort P. Super-Oxidizing Covalent Triazine Framework Electrocatalyst for Two-Electron Water Oxidation to H 2 O 2. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202313836. [PMID: 37806967 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202313836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical two-electron water oxidation (2e WOR) is gaining surging research traction for sustainable hydrogen peroxide production. However, the strong oxidizing environment and thermodynamically competitive side-reaction (4e WOR) posit as thresholds for the 2e WOR. We herein report a custom-crafted covalent triazine network possessing strong oxidizing properties as a proof-of-concept metal-free functional organic network electrocatalyst for catalyzing 2e WOR. As the first-of-its-kind, the material shows a maximum of 89.9 % Faradaic Efficiency and 1428 μmol/h/cm2 H2 O2 production rate at 3.0 V bias potential (vs reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE), which are either better or comparable to the state-of-the-art electrocatalysts. We have experimentally confirmed a stepwise 2e WOR mechanism which was further computationally endorsed by density functional theory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqia Khan
- Center for Ordered Materials, Organometallics and Catalysis (COMOC), Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S3, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Jeet Chakraborty
- Center for Ordered Materials, Organometallics and Catalysis (COMOC), Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S3, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kuber Singh Rawat
- Center for Molecular Modeling (CMM), Ghent University, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 46, 9052, Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Rino Morent
- Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT), Department of Applied Physics, Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 41 B4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nathalie De Geyter
- Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT), Department of Applied Physics, Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 41 B4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Veronique Van Speybroeck
- Center for Molecular Modeling (CMM), Ghent University, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 46, 9052, Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Pascal Van Der Voort
- Center for Ordered Materials, Organometallics and Catalysis (COMOC), Department of Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-S3, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Clinquart J, van Leenen K, Bokma J, Pardon B. Differentiating airway inflammation in calves based on cluster analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology. J Vet Intern Med 2023; 37:2610-2622. [PMID: 37731196 PMCID: PMC10658489 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonbronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage (nBAL) is routinely performed in calves, and airway cytology has great potential in airway disease diagnostics. A good reference framework for nBAL cytology is lacking. OBJECTIVES To distinguish different cytological profiles in nBAL from grouped housed calves using cluster analysis, and characterize these profiles on individual and herd levels. ANIMALS Three hundred thirty-eight group-housed calves from 60 herds (mainly dairy and beef ). METHODS Cross-sectional study. Differential counts of white blood cells were determined on nBAL fluid, followed by differentiation of cytological profiles by K-means-based cluster analysis. These profiles were characterized by reference values, decision tree analysis, and associations with clinical, ultrasonographic, bacteriological, and cytological features. RESULTS A normal (55.9%), a neutrophilic (41.1%), and an eosinophilic profile (3.0%) were identified. The normal profile was characterized by reference values of 2.3% to 47.4% neutrophils, 35.1% to 95.1% macrophages, 0.4 to 22.9% lymphocytes, and 0.0% to 0.9% eosinophils. The neutrophilic profile was characterized by ≥44.5% neutrophils, <1.6% eosinophils, and <11.5% lymphocytes. This profile was associated with the isolation of Pasteurella multocida, the presence of neutrophils with toxic granulation, and the presence of phagocytosed bacteria in neutrophils. The eosinophilic profile was characterized by eosinophils ≥1.6% (neutrophilia present) or ≥2.4% (neutrophilia absent), and associated with the presence of mast cells. On herd level, the neutrophilic and eosinophilic profiles were present in 85.0% and 15.0% of the herds, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE This study provides a first step in the development of cytological guidelines, aiding the assessment of airway health and inflammation in calves through nBAL fluid cytology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Clinquart
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Katharina van Leenen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Jade Bokma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Bart Pardon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population MedicineGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
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50
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Mortier F, Daminet S, Duchateau L, Biscop A, Paepe D. Biological variation of urinary protein: Creatinine ratio and urine specific gravity in cats. J Vet Intern Med 2023; 37:2261-2268. [PMID: 37828720 PMCID: PMC10658522 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Laboratory results are influenced by presence and severity of disease, as well as preanalytical factors, analytical variation, and biological variation. Biological variation data for urinary protein: creatinine ratio (UPC) and urine specific gravity (USG) in cats are lacking. OBJECTIVES Determine the biological variation of UPC and USG in cats. ANIMALS Eighty healthy client-owned cats. METHODS Prospective study. Urine was collected on days 0, 14, and 56 from all 80 cats to investigate the persistence of borderline or overt proteinuria or suboptimal urine concentration. In 15 of these cats, urine was collected weekly from day 0 to 42 to calculate the index of individuality (II) and reference change value (RCV), and on days 56 and 57 to evaluate day-to-day variability of UPC and USG. RESULTS Borderline or overt proteinuria (UPC ≥0.2) was present in 18/80 (23%) cats at baseline and persisted on 3 occasions in 2 months in 8/18 (44%) cats. Urine concentration was suboptimal at inclusion (USG <1.035) in 8/80 (10%) cats and at all 3 time points during 2 months in 3/8 (38%) cats. The II of UPC and USG indicated intermediate individuality. The 1-sided RCV was 82% for UPC and 36% for USG. Proteinuria substage was identical on 2 consecutive days in 13/15 (87%) cats, and urine concentrating ability remained the same in all 15 cats. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE A >82% increase in UPC in a healthy cat is not solely attributable to physiological and analytical variation. For USG, a decrease of >36% is considered clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Mortier
- Small Animal DepartmentGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | | | - Luc Duchateau
- Biometrics Research CenterGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Ann Biscop
- Small Animal DepartmentGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
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