Multiple antimicrobial and immune-modulating activities of cysteamine in infectious diseases

Infectious diseases are a major threat to global health and cause millions of deaths every year, particularly in developing countries. The emergence of multidrug resistance challenges current antimicrobial treatments, inducing uncertainty in therapeutic protocols. New compounds are therefore necessary. A drug repurposing approach could play a critical role in developing new treatments used either alone or in combination with standard therapy regimens. Herein, we focused on cysteamine, an aminothiol endogenously synthesized by human cells during the degradation of coenzyme-A, which is a drug approved for the treatment of nephropathic cystinosis. Cysteamine influences many biological processes due to the presence of the highly reactive thiol group. This review provides an overview of cysteamine-mediated effects on different viruses, bacteria and parasites, with a particular focus on infections caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Mycobacterium tuberculosis, non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Evidences for a potential use of cysteamine as a direct antimicrobial agent and/or a host-directed therapy, either alone or in combination with other antimicrobial drugs, are described.

Anti-RBD Antibody Levels and IFN-γ-Specific T Cell Response Are Associated with a More Rapid Swab Reversion in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis after the Booster Dose of COVID-19 Vaccination

This study investigated the incidence and severity of SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infections (BIs) and the time to swab reversion in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) after the booster dose of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. We enrolled 64 PwMS who had completed the three-dose mRNA vaccine schedule and had never experienced COVID-19 before. Among the 64 PwMS, 43.8% had BIs with a median time since the third vaccine dose of 155 days. BIs occurred more frequently in ocrelizumab-treated patients (64.7%). Patients with a relapsing-remitting MS course showed a reduced incidence of BIs compared with those with a primary-progressive disease (p = 0.002). Having anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) antibodies represented a protective factor reducing the incidence of BIs by 60% (p = 0.042). The majority of BIs were mild, and the only severe COVID-19 cases were reported in patients with a high Expanded Disability Status Scale score (EDSS > 6). The median time for a negative swab was 11 days. Notably, fingolimod-treated patients take longer for a swab-negativization (p = 0.002). Conversely, having anti-RBD antibodies ≥ 809 BAU/mL and an IFN-γ-specific T cell response ≥ 16 pg/mL were associated with a shorter time to swab-negativization (p = 0.051 and p = 0.018, respectively). In conclusion, the immunological protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection may differ among PwMS according to DMTs.

Older Age, a High Titre of Neutralising Antibodies and Therapy with Conventional DMARDs Are Associated with Protection from Breakthrough Infection in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients after the Booster Dose of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine

Objectives: We aimed to analyse the incidence and severity of breakthrough infections (BIs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients after a COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination booster dose. Methods: We enrolled 194 RA patients and 1002 healthcare workers (HCWs) as controls. Clinical, lifestyle and demographic factors were collected at the time of the third dose, and immunogenicity analyses were carried out in a subgroup of patients at 4-6 weeks after the third dose. Results: BIs were experienced by 42% patients (82/194) with a median time since the last vaccination of 176 days. Older age (>50 years; aHR 0.38, 95% CI: 0.20-0.74), receiving conventional synthetic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) (aHR 0.52, 95%CI: 0.30-0.90) and having a titre of neutralising antibodies >20 (aHR 0.36, 95% CI: 0.12-1.07) were identified as protective factors. Conversely, anti-IL6R treatment and anti-CD20 therapy increased BI probability. BIs were mostly pauci-symptomatic, but the hospitalisation incidence was significantly higher than in HCWs (8.5% vs. 0.19%); the main risk factor was anti-CD20 therapy. Conclusions: Being older than 50 years and receiving csDMARDs were shown to be protective factors for BI, whereas anti-IL6R or anti-CD20 therapy increased the risk. Higher neutralising antibody titres were associated with a lower probability of BI. If confirmed in a larger population, the identification of a protective cut-off would allow a personalised risk-benefit therapeutic management of RA patients.

Initial immune response after exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis or to SARS-COV-2: similarities and differences

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), whose etiologic agent is severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), are currently the two deadliest infectious diseases in humans, which together have caused about more than 11 million deaths worldwide in the past 3 years. TB and COVID-19 share several aspects including the droplet- and aerosol-borne transmissibility, the lungs as primary target, some symptoms, and diagnostic tools. However, these two infectious diseases differ in other aspects as their incubation period, immune cells involved, persistence and the immunopathological response. In this review, we highlight the similarities and differences between TB and COVID-19 focusing on the innate and adaptive immune response induced after the exposure to Mtb and SARS-CoV-2 and the pathological pathways linking the two infections. Moreover, we provide a brief overview of the immune response in case of TB-COVID-19 co-infection highlighting the similarities and differences of each individual infection. A comprehensive understanding of the immune response involved in TB and COVID-19 is of utmost importance for the design of effective therapeutic strategies and vaccines for both diseases.

Dynamic Evolution of Humoral and T-Cell Specific Immune Response to COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Followed until the Booster Dose

This study characterizes antibody and T-cell immune responses over time until the booster dose of COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) undergoing different disease-modifying treatments (DMTs). We prospectively enrolled 134 PwMS and 99 health care workers (HCWs) having completed the two-dose schedule of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine within the last 2-4 weeks (T0) and followed them 24 weeks after the first dose (T1) and 4-6 weeks after the booster (T2). PwMS presented a significant reduction in the seroconversion rate and anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD)-Immunoglobulin (IgG) titers from T0 to T1 (p < 0.0001) and a significant increase from T1 to T2 (p < 0.0001). The booster dose in PwMS showed a good improvement in the serologic response, even greater than HCWs, as it promoted a significant five-fold increase of anti-RBD-IgG titers compared with T0 (p < 0.0001). Similarly, the T-cell response showed a significant 1.5- and 3.8-fold increase in PwMS at T2 compared with T0 (p = 0.013) and T1 (p < 0.0001), respectively, without significant modulation in the number of responders. Regardless of the time elapsed since vaccination, most ocrelizumab- (77.3%) and fingolimod-treated patients (93.3%) showed only a T-cell-specific or humoral-specific response, respectively. The booster dose reinforces humoral- and cell-mediated-specific immune responses and highlights specific DMT-induced immune frailties, suggesting the need for specifically tailored strategies for immune-compromised patients to provide primary prophylaxis, early SARS-CoV-2 detection and the timely management of COVID-19 antiviral treatments.

Assessment of trace element contamination and effects on Paracentrotus lividus using several approaches: Pollution indices, accumulation factors and biochemical tools

Among the most common contaminants in marine ecosystems, trace elements are recognized as serious pollutants. In Corsica (NW Mediterranean Sea), near the old asbestos mine at Canari, trace elements from the leaching of mine residues have been discharged into the sea for several decades. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of contamination in this area and the potential effects on Paracentrotus lividus (Lamarck, 1816) using pollution indices, accumulation factors and biochemical tools. For this purpose, the concentration of 24 trace elements was measured in sea urchins (gonads and gut content), macroalgae, seawater column and sediment collected at 12 stations nearby the old asbestos mine and at a reference site. The bioaccumulation of trace elements occurs as follows: macroalgae > gut > gonads. TEPI contribute to highlight contamination gradients which are mainly due to the dominant marine currents allowing the migration of mining waste along the coastline. This hypothesis was supported by TESVI, which identified characteristic trace elements in the southern area of the mine. High hydrogen peroxide content, associated with elevated catalase and glutathione-S-transferase enzyme activities, were also identified at these sites and at the reference site. Trace elements contamination as well as several abiotic factors could explain these results (e.g. microbiological contamination, hydrodynamic events, etc.). The results obtained in this study suggest that oxidative stress induced by contamination does not affect the health of Paracentrotus lividus. This work has provided a useful dataset allowing better use of sea urchins and various tools for assessing trace element contamination in coastal ecosystems.

Epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and management of TB in patients with HIV and diabetes

Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB is the leading cause of death from an infectious disease. HIV and diabetes are recognised risk factors for progression of TB disease and both have a strong impact on the diagnosis and management of TB, threatening efforts to end TB globally. Here we provide the latest data on the complex interplay between these conditions. TB patients with HIV present systemic immune activation, increased HIV viral load, more severe clinical presentations and reduced success of TB therapy. Similarly, TB patients with diabetes are characterised by an exaggerated adaptive immunity, worsening of the clinical presentations and a higher risk for multidrug resistance and treatment failure. It is important to strengthen resources to prevent these comorbidities from occurring and to implement screening, early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.

Longitudinal characterisation of B and T-cell immune responses after the booster dose of COVID-19 mRNA-vaccine in people with multiple sclerosis using different disease-modifying therapies

BACKGROUND

The decline of humoral response to COVID-19 vaccine led to authorise a booster dose. Here, we characterised the kinetics of B-cell and T-cell immune responses in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) after the booster dose.

METHODS

We enrolled 22 PwMS and 40 healthcare workers (HCWs) after 4-6 weeks from the booster dose (T3). Thirty HCWs and 19 PwMS were also recruited 6 months (T2) after the first dose. Antibody response was measured by anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD)-IgG detection, cell-mediated response by an interferon (IFN)-γ release assay (IGRA), Th1 cytokines and T-cell memory profile by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Booster dose increased anti-RBD-IgG titers in fingolimod-treated, cladribine-treated and IFN-β-treated patients, but not in ocrelizumab-treated patients, although antibody titres were lower than HCWs. A higher number of fingolimod-treated patients seroconverted at T3. Differently, T-cell response evaluated by IGRA remained stable in PwMS independently of therapy. Spike-specific Th1-cytokine response was mainly CD4⁺ T-cell-mediated, and in PwMS was significantly reduced (p<0.0001) with impaired IL-2 production compared with HCWs at T3. In PwMS, total Th1 and IFN-γ CD4⁺ T-cell responders to spike protein were increased from T2 to T3.Compared with HCWs, PwMS presented a higher frequency of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ terminally differentiated effector memory cells and of CD4⁺ effector memory (T_EM) cells, independently of the stimulus suggesting the association of this phenotype with MS status. CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T_EM cell frequency was further increased at T3 compared with T2.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 vaccine booster strengthens humoral and Th1-cell responses and increases T_EM cells in PwMS.

Characterization of the immune impairment of tuberculosis and COVID-19 coinfected patients

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the plasma immune profile of patients with TB-COVID-19 compared to COVID-19, TB or healthy controls and to in vitro evaluate the specific responses to SARS-CoV-2- and Mtb-antigens.

METHODS

We enrolled 119 subjects: 14 TB-COVID-19, 47 COVID-19, 38 TB, and 20 controls. Plasmatic levels of 27 immune factors were measured at baseline using a multiplex assay. The specific response to SARS-CoV-2- and Mtb-antigens was evaluated using a home-made whole-blood platform and QuantiFERON-Plus tubes, respectively.

RESULTS

We found an immune signature (TNF-α, MIP-1β, and IL-9) associated with TB-COVID-19 coinfection compared with COVID-19 (p<0.05) and TNF-α showed the highest discriminant power. We also found another signature (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-5, FGF-basic, and GM-CSF) in coinfected compared with TB patients (p<0.05), and among them TNF-α and GM-CSF showed a non-negligible discriminating ability. Moreover, coinfected patients showed significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 specific response compared with COVID-19 for several pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors (p≤0.05). Furthermore, coinfection negatively affected the Mtb-specific response (p≤0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We found immune signatures associated with TB-COVID-19 coinfection and observed a major impairment of SARS-CoV-2-specific and to a lesser extent the Mtb-specific immune responses. These findings further advance our knowledge of the immunopathology of TB-COVID-19 coinfection.

Budget impact analysis of anakinra in the treatment of familial Mediterranean fever in Italy

INTRODUCTION

Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a hereditary autoinflammatory disease that significantly reduces occupational productivity and quality-of-life in affected patients. Italy has an estimated FMF prevalence of 1 in 60,000 people. While colchicine is the primary treatment for FMF, biologics are administered to intolerant and non-responder patients. Anakinra and canakinumab are the only biologics approved and reimbursed for FMF in Italy. Both medicines have demonstrated efficacy in FMF patients yet differ in treatment costs. This study aimed to perform a budget impact analysis (BIA) following anakinra's reimbursement for FMF treatment, considering pharmaceutical costs from the Italian National Healthcare Service (NHS) perspective.

METHODS

A 'Reference scenario' (all patients treated with canakinumab) was compared to an 'Alternative scenario', with increased anakinra market shares. The target population was estimated based on the Italian population, epidemiological and market research data. Drugs costs were estimated based on Summary of Product Characteristics and net ex-factory prices. Sensitivity analyses were implemented to test results' robustness.

RESULTS

The base case analysis showed an overall cumulative expenditure of €30,586,628 for 'Reference scenario' and € 16,465,548 for 'Alternative scenario'. A cumulative savings of €14,121,080 (46.2%) was calculated over 3 years as a result of the reimbursement and increasing uptake of anakinra. The sensitivity analyses, even considering a discount of 50% for canakinumab, confirmed the base case results.

CONCLUSIONS

Anakinra's introduction, in FMF treatment, provides a financially sustainable option for Italian patients, with savings increasing according to greater use of anakinra.

Booster dose of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines strengthens the specific immune response of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A prospective multicenter longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the kinetics of humoral and T-cell responses in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-patients followed up to 4-6 weeks (T3) after the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine booster dose.

METHODS

Health care workers (HCWs, n=38) and RA-patients (n=52) having completed the mRNA vaccination schedule were enrolled at T3. In each cohort, 25 subjects were also sampled after 5 weeks (T1) and 6 months (T2) from the first vaccine dose. The humoral response was assessed by measuring anti-Receptor-Binding Domain (RBD) and neutralizing antibodies, the T-cell response by interferon-(IFN)-γ-release assay (IGRA), T-cell cytokine production and B-cell phenotype at T3 by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

RA-patients showed a significant reduction of antibody titers from T1 to T2 and a significant increase at T3. T-cell response by IGRA persisted over time in RA-patients, while increased in HCWs. Most RA-patients scored positive for anti-RBD, neutralizing antibody and T-cell responses, although the magnitude was lower than HCWs. The spike-specific-cytokine response was mainly CD4+ T cells-restricted in both cohorts, and significantly lower with reduced IL-2 response and CD4-antigen-responding naïve T cells in RA-patients. Unswitched memory B-cells were reduced in RA-patients compared with HCWs independently of vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 vaccine booster strengthens the humoral immunity in RA-patients even with a reduced cytokine-response.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Leaves as a Source of Bioactive Compounds

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is an annual spicy plant generally utilized as a flavouring agent for food. Basil leaves also have pharmaceutical properties due to the presence of polyphenols, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. In this work, carbon dioxide was employed to extract bioactive compounds from basil leaves. Extraction with supercritical CO₂ (p = 30 MPa; T = 50 °C) for 2 h using 10% ethanol as a cosolvent was the most efficient method, with a yield similar to that of the control (100% ethanol) and was applied to two basil cultivars: “Italiano Classico” and “Genovese”. Antioxidant activity, phenolic acid content, and volatile organic compounds were determined in the extracts obtained by this method. In both cultivars, the supercritical CO₂ extracts showed antiradical activity (ABTS^●+ assay), caffeic acid (1.69–1.92 mg/g), linalool (35–27%), and bergamotene (11–14%) contents significantly higher than those of the control. The polyphenol content and antiradical activity measured by the three assays were higher in the “Genovese” cultivar than in the “Italiano Classico” cultivar, while the linalool content was higher (35.08%) in the “Italiano Classico” cultivar. Supercritical CO₂ not only allowed us to obtain extracts rich in bioactive compounds in an environmentally friendly way but also reduced ethanol consumption.

Stress response to trace elements mixture of different embryo-larval stages of Paracentrotus lividus

This study investigated for the first time the oxidative biomarkers responses in all larval stages of sea urchin. The contamination effects were reproduced by using contaminated seawater to concentrations measured in the area adjacent to an old asbestos mine at factors of 5 and 10. The results suggested that the concentrations were not sufficiently high to induce a major oxidative stress. The biometric differences make this method a more sensitive approach for assessing the effects on sea urchin larvae. Measurements of specific activities of antioxidant enzymes at each stage suggested a high capacity of the larvae to respond to oxidative stress. This normal activity of the organism must be considered in future research. This work also highlighted the importance of spawners provenance in ecotoxicological studies. These data are essential to better understand the stress responses of sea urchin larvae and provide baseline information for later environmental assessment research.

Accuracy of QuantiFERON SARS-CoV-2 research use only assay and characterization of the CD4+ and CD8+ T cell-SARS-CoV-2 response: comparison with a homemade interferon-γ release assay

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we aimed to characterize the SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell response detected by the QuantiFERON SARS-CoV-2 research use only assay in terms of accuracy and T cell subsets involved compared with a homemade interferon (IFN)-γ release assay (IGRA).

METHODS

We evaluated T cell response by the standardized QuantiFERON SARS-CoV-2 tubes (antigen [Ag]1 and Ag2) and a homemade IGRA quantifying IFN-γ response to SARS-CoV-2 spike peptides (homemade-IGRA-SPIKE test). We evaluated the T cell subsets mediating the specific response using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

We prospectively enrolled 66 individuals: COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 subjects and NO-COVID-19-vaccinated subjects, including healthy donors and immunocompromised subjects. The standardized kit detected 62.1% (41/66) of T cell responders. Ag2 tube showed a higher IFN-γ quantitative and qualitative response. Ag1 tube response was mainly mediated by CD4⁺ T cells; Ag2 tube response was mediated by CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells. The homemade-IGRA-SPIKE test detected a higher number of responders (52/66, 78.8%) than the QuantiFERON SARS-CoV-2 assay (P = 0.056). The response was found in both T cell subsets, although a higher magnitude and response rate was observed in the CD4⁺ T cell subset.

CONCLUSION

The QuantiFERON SARS-CoV-2 response is mediated by CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells. A lower number of responders is found compared with the homemade-IGRA-SPIKE test, likely because of the different peptide composition.

Humoral and cellular responses to spike of δ SARS-CoV-2 variant in vaccinated patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

OBJECTIVES

We assessed vaccination-induced antibody and cellular responses against spike from the ancestral strain and from the delta (δ) SARS-CoV-2 variant in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) on immunosuppressive therapy in comparison with immunocompetent subjects.

METHODS

We enrolled patients with IMID and immunocompetent subjects who completed the vaccination schedule within 4-6 months from the first dose. The interferon (IFN)-γ-response to spike peptides that were derived from the ancestral and the δ SARS-CoV-2 were measured by ELISA. Anti-Receptor Binding Domain IgG antibodies were also evaluated.

RESULTS

We enrolled 43 patients with IMID and nine immunocompetent subjects. No significant differences were found after comparing the specific immune response (IFN-γ) between patients with IMID and immunocompetent subjects to the ancestral (p = 0.36) or δ peptide pool (p = 0.51). Nevertheless, IFN-γ-specific responses to the ancestral or to the δ pools were reduced in subjects taking CTLA4-IgG or TNF-α inhibitors compared with subjects treated with IL-6 inhibitors or Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs. Regarding the antibody response, no significant differences were observed between patients with IMID and immunocompetent individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Cellular responses to δ SARS-CoV-2 variant remain largely intact in patients with IMID. However, the magnitude of these responses is dependent on the specific IMID immunosuppressive regimen. Serological response was also similar between the IMID and control groups.

Coordinated innate and T-cell immune responses in mild COVID-19 patients from household contacts of COVID-19 cases during the first pandemic wave

Objective

To better define the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19, the present study aims to characterize the early immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection in household contacts of COVID-19 cases. In particular, innate, T- and B-cell specific responses were evaluated over time.

Methods

Household contacts of COVID-19 cases screened for SARS−CoV−2 infection by nasopharyngeal swab for surveillance purposes were enrolled (T0, n=42). Of these, 28 subjects returned for a follow-up test (T1). The innate response was assessed by detecting a panel of soluble factors by multiplex-technology in plasma samples. Cell-mediated response was evaluated by measuring interferon (IFN)-γ levels by ELISA in plasma harvested from whole-blood stimulated with SARS−CoV−2 peptide pools, including spike (S), nucleocapsid (N) and membrane (M) proteins. The serological response was assessed by quantifying anti-Receptor-Binding-Domain (RBD), anti-Nucleocapsid (N), whole virus indirect immunofluorescence, and neutralizing antibodies.

Results

At T0, higher levels of plasmatic IFN-α, IL-1ra, MCP-1 and IP-10, and lower levels of IL-1β, IL-9, MIP-1β and RANTES were observed in subjects with positive swab compared to individuals with a negative one (p<0.05). Plasmatic IFN-α was the only cytokine detectable in subjects with positive SARS-CoV-2 swabs with high accuracy for swab score positivity (0.93, p<0.0001). Among subjects with positive swabs, significant negative correlations were found among the RT-PCR cycle threshold values reported for genes S and N and IFN-α or IP-10 levels. At T0, the IFN-γ T-cell specific response was detected in 50% (5/10) of subjects with positive swab, while anti-RBD/anti-N antibodies showed a positivity rate of 10% (1/10).

At T1, the IFN-γ T-cell specific response was detected in most of the confirmed-infection subjects (77.8%, 7/9), whereas the serological response was still observed in a minority of them (44.4%, 4/9). Overall, the swab test showed a moderate concordance with the T-cell response (78.6%, k=0.467), and a scarce concordance with the serological one (72.9%, k=0.194).

Conclusions

Plasmatic IFN-α and the IFN-γ T-cell specific response appear early even in the absence of seroconversion, and show a greater positivity rate than the serological response in household contacts with positive swab.

Development of a High Oleic Cardoon Cell Culture Platform by SAD Overexpression and RNAi-Mediated FAD2.2 Silencing

The development of effective tools for the sustainable supply of phyto-ingredients and natural substances with reduced environmental footprints can help mitigate the dramatic scenario of climate change. Plant cell cultures-based biorefineries can be a technological advancement to face this challenge and offer a potentially unlimited availability of natural substances, in a standardized composition and devoid of the seasonal variability of cultivated plants. Monounsaturated (MUFA) fatty acids are attracting considerable attention as supplements for biodegradable plastics, bio-additives for the cosmetic industry, and bio-lubricants. Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis) callus cultures accumulate fatty acids and polyphenols and are therefore suitable for large-scale production of biochemicals and valuable compounds, as well as biofuel precursors. With the aim of boosting their potential uses, we designed a biotechnological approach to increase oleic acid content through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated metabolic engineering. Bioinformatic data mining in the C. cardunculus transcriptome allowed the selection and molecular characterization of SAD (stearic acid desaturase) and FAD2.2 (fatty acid desaturase) genes, coding for key enzymes in oleic and linoleic acid formation, as targets for metabolic engineering. A total of 22 and 27 fast-growing independent CcSAD overexpressing (OE) and CcFAD2.2 RNAi knocked out (KO) transgenic lines were obtained. Further characterization of five independent transgenic lines for each construct demonstrated that, successfully, SAD overexpression increased linoleic acid content, e.g., to 42.5%, of the relative fatty acid content, in the CcSADOE6 line compared with 30.4% in the wild type (WT), whereas FAD2.2 silencing reduced linoleic acid in favor of the accumulation of its precursor, oleic acid, e.g., to almost 57% of the relative fatty acid content in the CcFAD2.2KO2 line with respect to 17.7% in the WT. Moreover, CcSADOE6 and CcFAD2.2KO2 were also characterized by a significant increase in total polyphenolic content up to about 4.7 and 4.1 mg/g DW as compared with 2.7 mg/g DW in the WT, mainly due to the accumulation of dicaffeoyl quinic and feruloyl quinic acids. These results pose the basis for the effective creation of an engineered cardoon cells-based biorefinery accumulating high levels of valuable compounds from primary and specialized metabolism to meet the industrial demand for renewable and sustainable sources of innovative bioproducts.

Cysteamine exerts in vitro antiviral activity against the SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron variants

The novel SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) represent a considerable global alarm because their mutations are known to affect transmissibility and cause immune escape. While preventing severe disease and deaths, the available vaccines do not avoid infection; therefore, COVID-19 disease management still requires effective therapies. We have recently reported that the aminothiol cysteamine, a drug already applied to humans, exerts direct antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and has in vitro immunomodulatory effect. To evaluate whether this compound exerts antiviral effects also against SARS-CoV-2 variants, we performed different infected cell-based assays using Wild type, Delta, or Omicron VOC. We found that cysteamine significantly reduces the cytopathic effect induced by SARS-CoV-2 Wild type strain and Delta variant in Vero E6 cells. On the other hand, cysteamine had no effects on the survival of cells infected with the Omicron variant, due to the lack of cytotoxicity on Vero E6 cells, at least when infected at MOI = 0.001 for 72 h. Moreover, cysteamine significantly reduced the production of Wild type, Delta, and Omicron variants as measured by the virus released in the culture media (Vero E6 and Calu-3 cells) and by transmission electron microscopy analysis (Vero E6 cells). Notably, cysteamine is more effective in inhibiting the Omicron rather than Delta or Wild type viruses, with an 80% inhibition of Omicron production compared to 40% of Wild type and Delta variant. Overall, our findings demonstrate that cysteamine exerts direct antiviral actions against SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron variants, in addition to the Wild type virus. Our data further demonstrate that cysteamine is a good candidate as repurposing drug for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection for the present and, likely, the future VOC and, therefore, it would be important to investigate its clinical relevance in randomized clinical trials.

Humoral and Cellular Response to Spike of Delta SARS-CoV-2 Variant in Vaccinated Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Objectives

We assessed vaccination-induced antibody and cellular response against spike from the ancestral strain and from the Delta Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treated with disease modifying treatments.

Methods

We enrolled 47 patients with MS and nine controls ("no MS") having completed the vaccination schedule within 4-6 months from the first dose. The Interferon (IFN)-γ-response to spike peptides derived from the ancestral and the Delta SARS-CoV-2 was measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Anti-Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) IgG were also evaluated.

Results

No significant differences were found comparing the IFN-γ-specific immune response between MS and "no MS" subjects to the ancestral (P = 0.62) or Delta peptide pools (P = 0.68). Nevertheless, a reduced IFN-γ-specific response to the ancestral or to the Delta pools was observed in subjects taking fingolimod or cladribine compared to subjects treated with ocrelizumab or IFN-β. The antibody response was significantly reduced in patients with MS compared to "no MS" subjects (P = 0.0452) mainly in patients taking ocrelizumab or fingolimod.

Conclusions

Cellular responses to Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant remain largely intact in patients with MS. However, the magnitude of these responses depends on the specific therapy.

C85 IMPACT OF QUARANTINE ON CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS

Background

Pandemic–related quarantine has led to critical lifestyle changes with possible detrimental consequences on health. The effects of lockdown on cardiovascular (CV) risk factors have been investigated to define patient–tailored strategies aimed at reducing the negative impact on CV health.

Methods

We administered a closed response survey to consecutive patients coming to our cardiac outpatient centre over a period of 10 days. Questions focused on quarantine–related lifestyle changes during March and April 2020.

Results

We enrolled 150 patients (62% male, mean age 65 years). The vast majority of subjects (73%) did not work due to retirement/unemployment, 14% worked in office and 13% worked from home. 50% had hypertension and/or diabetes and/or dyslipidemia, 33% had atrial fibrillation, 17% coronary artery disease, 6% had heart failure and 4% had a pacemaker/ICD implanted. Physical activity did not change for 44%, increased in 2%, decreased in 33% and was stopped in 21%. Dietary pattern remained the same in 73% while 22% consumed more junk food and 5% more healthy food. Body weight was not monitored in 35%, remained unchanged in 32%, increased in 28% and decreased in 5%. Among active smokers (22%), 86% reported higher cigarette consumption while 14% reduced/unchanged number of cigarettes per day. Sleep disorders were present in 73%. Regarding health needs, 16% had to reschedule medical check–ups due to personal choice or hospital unavailability.

Conclusions

Quarantine appeared to have different effects on CV risk factors. During lockdown, on–site work was limited, which may partially account for the observed lifestyle changes. Physical activity was reduced/interrupted in more than half of the population, whereas dietary pattern did not change in the vast majority of subjects, with only a small proportion reporting worse dietary habits. Body weight increased in only a minority of subjects, though this may be underestimated because most participants did not monitor their weight. Cigarette consumption was higher for the majority of active smokers. Similarly, sleep disorders were present in the vast majority of subjects. To conclude, consistent with current literature, our real–world data confirm that quarantine seems to have affected lifestyle habits defining CV risk profile differently. A patient–tailored approach should be implemented to minimise possible detrimental effects of quarantine on CV health.

Effects of trace elements contaminations on the larval development of Paracentrotus lividus using an innovative experimental approach

Several experiments were performed using larvae of Paracentrotus lividus (Lamarck, 1816) in order to determine the consequences of different chronic contamination with mixtures of (i) fifteen trace elements from concentrations measured in the world ocean seawater, and (ii) seven trace elements from contamination resulting from mining. To predict the impact of increased marine pollution, higher concentrations were also used. These bioassays were conducted using spawners collected from Calvi (reference site, Corsica), and Albo (mining area, Corsica). The effects of trace elements have been studied on the entire larval development. The results show wider arms and delayed development as the number and concentration of trace elements increases. Therefore, the synergy between the different trace elements is of paramount importance with regard to the impact on organisms. Probably due to a hormesis phenomenon, larvae contaminated with seven trace elements at average concentrations developed more quickly. This work also highlighted the importance of the origin of spawners in ecotoxicological studies. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effects of such a broad combination of trace elements for chronic contamination on the entire larval stage of Paracentrotus lividus.

Deep-frying purple potato Purple Majesty using sunflower oil: effect on the polyphenols, anthocyanins and antioxidant activity

The potato is a root vegetable native to the Americas; it consists of the starchy tuber of the plant Solanum tuberosum. There are many varieties, and the flesh can have different colour ranging from yellow to red and purple. Coloured varieties have a denser texture and slightly nuttier, earthier flavour than other potatoes. The desirable quality characteristics of potatoes depends on the intended use, and the acceptability of raw potatoes is determined by size, shape, colour, and the quality of can be evaluated in terms of colour, flavour, and texture. Deep-frying is the century-old and it is among the most common cooking processes, still being used to prepare a variety of food products on both industrial and domestic scales. Frying the potatoes is among the tastiest and appreciated way to cook this vegetable. Purple fleshed potatoes are widely considered one of the best-tasting purple potatoes varieties, they have a nice taste and add colour to a meal. They are a source of beneficial health compounds which makes them interesting as functional food. The anthocyanins present in the Purple Majesty variety are interesting for their health promoting abilities, anti-oxidative activity, and even other health beneficial effects, e.g. anti-influenza virus activity, and anti-stomach cancer activity. The aim of this study has been to assess the effect of deep-frying of purple potato Purple Majesty using sunflower oil on the polyphenols, anthocyanins and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the cooked matrix compared to the fresh one. The results seem to suggest that the healthy characteristics of this functional food are retained after the cooking by frying.

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Purple potato “Purple Majesty” is rich in antioxidants and anthocyanins.

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Deep frying in sunflower oil affects positively the antioxidant activity.

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The anthocyanins increase their amount in the frying time range.

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Polyphenols amount decreases during frying time.

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The ferulic and gallic acids seem to increase their amount after 48 h of frying.

Persistent Spike-specific T cell immunity despite antibody reduction after 3 months from SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2-mRNA vaccine

Vaccine is the main public health measure to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission and hospitalization, and a massive scientific effort worldwide resulted in the rapid development of effective vaccines. This work aimed to define the dynamics and persistence of humoral and cell-mediated immune response in Health Care Workers who received a two-dose BNT162b2-mRNA vaccination. Serological response was evaluated by quantifying anti-RBD and neutralizing antibodies while cell-mediated response was performed by a whole blood test quantifying Th1 cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2) produced in response to Spike peptides. BNT162b2-mRNA vaccine induced both humoral and cell-mediated immune response against Spike in all HCW early after the second dose. After 12 weeks from vaccination, the titer of anti-RBD antibodies as well as their neutralization function decreased while the Spike-specific T-cells persisted at the same level as soon after vaccine boost. Of note, a correlation between cellular and humoral response persevered, suggesting the persistence of a coordinated immune response. The long lasting cell-mediated immune response after 3 months from vaccination highlight its importance in the maintaining of specific immunity able to expand again to fight eventual new antigen encountering.