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Cervello M, Emma MR, Augello G, Cusimano A, Giannitrapani L, Soresi M, Akula SM, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Gulino A, Belmonte B, Montalto G, McCubrey JA. New landscapes and horizons in hepatocellular carcinoma therapy. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:3053-3094. [PMID: 32018226 PMCID: PMC7041742 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the sixth most frequent form of cancer and leads to the fourth highest number of deaths each year. HCC results from a combination of environmental factors and aging as there are driver mutations at oncogenes which occur during aging. Most of HCCs are diagnosed at advanced stage preventing curative therapies. Treatment in advanced stage is a challenging and pressing problem, and novel and well-tolerated therapies are urgently needed. We will discuss further advances beyond sorafenib that target additional signaling pathways and immune checkpoint proteins. The scenario of possible systemic therapies for patients with advanced HCC has changed dramatically in recent years. Personalized genomics and various other omics approaches may identify actionable biochemical targets, which are activated in individual patients, which may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Further studies are needed to identify predictive biomarkers and aberrantly activated signaling pathways capable of guiding the clinician in choosing the most appropriate therapy for the individual patient.
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Akula SM, Candido S, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Lertpiriyapong K, Cocco L, Ramazzotti G, Ratti S, Follo MY, Martelli AM, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Bueno-Silva B, Matias de Alencar S, Falasca M, Montalto G, Cervello M, Notarbartolo M, Gizak A, Rakus D, Libra M, McCubrey JA. Abilities of β-Estradiol to interact with chemotherapeutic drugs, signal transduction inhibitors and nutraceuticals and alter the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. Adv Biol Regul 2020; 75:100672. [PMID: 31685431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2019.100672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Improving the effects of chemotherapy and reducing the side effects are important goals in cancer research. Various approaches have been examined to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy. For example, signal transduction inhibitors or hormonal based approaches have been included with chemo- or radio-therapy. MIA-PaCa-2 and BxPC-3 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells both express the estrogen receptor (ER). The effects of β-estradiol on the growth of PDAC cells has not been examined yet the ER is expressed in PDAC cells. We have examined the effects of combining β-estradiol with chemotherapeutic drugs, signal transcription inhibitors, natural products and nutraceuticals on PDAC. In most cases, inclusion of β-estradiol with chemotherapeutic drugs increased chemosensitivity. These results indicate some approaches involving β-estradiol which may be used to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic and other drugs on the growth of PDAC.
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Akula SM, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Emma MR, Augello G, Cusimano A, Azzolina A, Montalto G, Cervello M, McCubrey JA. RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTORC1 and TP53 pathways and regulatory miRs as therapeutic targets in hepatocellular carcinoma. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:915-929. [PMID: 31657972 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1685501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant problem globally because of viral infections and the increasing incidence of obesity and fatty liver disease. However, it is difficult to treat because its inherent genetic heterogeneity results in activation of numerous signaling pathways. Kinases have been targeted for decades with varying results, but the development of therapeutic resistance is a major challenge.Areas covered: The key roles of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTORC1, TP53 microRNAs (miRs) as therapeutic targets are discussed and we suggests novel approaches for targeting miRs or their downstream targets to combat HCC. We performed literature searches using the Medline Database from 2000 to the present.Expert opinion: The involvement of RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTORC and TP53 pathways as drivers of the disease and drug resistance is a challenge. Moreover, miRs regulate the expression of key genes in these pathways. What we and others are proposing is the prospect of targeting miRs and their downstream targets to improve conventional approaches to treat HCC. Combination approaches are often promising because multiple signaling pathways are deregulated due to diverse mutations and events.
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Carlotta F, Raffaella R, Ilaria A, Alessandro N, Mannuccio MP, Mannucci PM, Nobili A, Pietrangelo A, Perticone F, Licata G, Violi F, Corazza GR, Corrao S, Marengoni A, Salerno F, Cesari M, Tettamanti M, Pasina L, Franchi C, Franchi C, Cortesi L, Tettamanti M, Miglio G, Tettamanti M, Cortesi L, Ardoino I, Novella A, Prisco D, Silvestri E, Emmi G, Bettiol A, Caterina C, Biolo G, Zanetti M, Guadagni M, Zaccari M, Chiuch M, Zaccari M, Vanoli M, Grignani G, Pulixi EA, Bernardi M, Bassi SL, Santi L, Zaccherini G, Lupattelli G, Mannarino E, Bianconi V, Paciullo F, Alcidi R, Nuti R, Valenti R, Ruvio M, Cappelli S, Palazzuoli A, Girelli D, Busti F, Marchi G, Barbagallo M, Dominguez L, Cocita F, Beneduce V, Plances L, Corrao S, Natoli G, Mularo S, Raspanti M, Cavallaro F, Zoli M, Lazzari I, Brunori M, Fabbri E, Magalotti D, Arnò R, Pasini FL, Capecchi PL, Palasciano G, Modeo ME, Gennaro CD, Cappellini MD, Maira D, Di Stefano V, Fabio G, Seghezzi S, Mancarella M, De Amicis MM, De Luca G, Scaramellini N, Cesari M, Rossi PD, Damanti S, Clerici M, Conti F, Bonini G, Ottolini BB, Di Sabatino A, Miceli E, Lenti MV, Pisati M, Dominioni CC, Murialdo G, Marra A, Cattaneo F, Pontremoli R, Beccati V, Nobili G, Secchi MB, Ghelfi D, Anastasio L, Sofia L, Carbone M, Cipollone F, Guagnano MT, Valeriani E, Rossi I, Mancuso G, Calipari D, Bartone M, Delitala G, Berria M, Pes C, Delitala A, Muscaritoli M, Molfino A, Petrillo E, Zuccalà G, D’Aurizio G, Romanelli G, Marengoni A, Zucchelli A, Manzoni F, Volpini A, Picardi A, Gentilucci UV, Gallo P, Dell’Unto C, Annoni G, Corsi M, Bellelli G, Zazzetta S, Mazzola P, Szabo H, Bonfanti A, Arturi F, Succurro E, Rubino M, Tassone B, Sesti G, Interna M, Serra MG, Bleve MA, Gasbarrone L, Sajeva MR, Brucato A, Ghidoni S, Fabris F, Bertozzi I, Bogoni G, Rabuini MV, Cosi E, Scarinzi P, Amabile A, Omenetto E, Prandini T, Manfredini R, Fabbian F, Boari B, Giorgi AD, Tiseo R, De Giorgio R, Paolisso G, Rizzo MR, Borghi C, Strocchi E, Ianniello E, Soldati M, Sabbà C, Vella FS, Suppressa P, Schilardi A, Loparco F, De Vincenzo GM, Comitangelo A, Amoruso E, Fenoglio L, Falcetta A, Bracco C, Fracanzani AL, Fargion S, Tiraboschi S, Cespiati A, Oberti G, Sigon G, Peyvandi F, Rossio R, Ferrari B, Colombo G, Agosti P, Monzani V, Savojardo V, Folli C, Ceriani G, Salerno F, Pallini G, Dallegri F, Ottonello L, Liberale L, Caserza L, Salam K, Liberato NL, Tognin T, Bianchi GB, Giaquinto S, Purrello F, Di Pino A, Piro S, Rozzini R, Falanga L, Spazzini E, Ferrandina C, Montrucchio G, Petitti P, Peasso P, Favale E, Poletto C, Salmi R, Gaudenzi P, Violi F, Perri L, Landolfi R, Montalto M, Mirijello A, Guasti L, Castiglioni L, Maresca A, Squizzato A, Campiotti L, Grossi A, Bertolotti M, Mussi C, Lancellotti G, Libbra MV, Dondi G, Pellegrini E, Carulli L, Galassi M, Grassi Y, Perticone F, Perticone M, Battaglia R, FIlice M, Maio R, Stanghellini V, Ruggeri E, del Vecchio S, Salvi A, Leonardi R, Damiani G, Capeci W, Gabrielli A, Mattioli M, Martino GP, Biondi L, Pettinari P, Ghio R, Col AD, Minisola S, Colangelo L, Cilli M, Labbadia G, Afeltra A, Marigliano B, Pipita ME, Castellino P, Zanoli L, Pignataro S, Gennaro A, Blanco J, Saracco V, Fogliati M, Bussolino C, Mete F, Gino M, Cittadini A, Vigorito C, Arcopinto M, Salzano A, Bobbio E, Marra AM, Sirico D, Moreo G, Gasparini F, Prolo S, Pina G, Ballestrero A, Ferrando F, Berra S, Dassi S, Nava MC, Graziella B, Baldassarre S, Fragapani S, Gruden G, Galanti G, Mascherini G, Petri C, Stefani L, Girino M, Piccinelli V, Nasso F, Gioffrè V, Pasquale M, Scattolin G, Martinelli S, Turrin M, Sechi L, Catena C, Colussi G, Passariello N, Rinaldi L, Berti F, Famularo G, Tarsitani P, Castello R, Pasino M, Ceda GP, Maggio MG, Morganti S, Artoni A, Del Giacco S, Firinu D, Losa F, Paoletti G, Costanzo G, Montalto G, Licata A, Malerba V, Montalto FA, Lasco A, Basile G, Catalano A, Malatino L, Stancanelli B, Terranova V, Di Marca S, Di Quattro R, La Malfa L, Caruso R, Mecocci P, Ruggiero C, Boccardi V, Meschi T, Lauretani F, Ticinesi A, Nouvenne A, Minuz P, Fondrieschi L, Pirisi M, Fra GP, Sola D, Porta M, Riva P, Quadri R, Larovere E, Novelli M, Scanzi G, Mengoli C, Provini S, Ricevuti L, Simeone E, Scurti R, Tolloso F, Tarquini R, Valoriani A, Dolenti S, Vannini G, Tedeschi A, Trotta L, Volpi R, Bocchi P, Vignali A, Harari S, Lonati C, Cattaneo M, Napoli F. Prevalence of use and appropriateness of antidepressants prescription in acutely hospitalized elderly patients. Eur J Intern Med 2019; 68:e7-e11. [PMID: 31405773 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2019.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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van Zwieten A, Wong G, Ruospo M, Palmer SC, Teixeira-Pinto A, Barulli MR, Iurillo A, Saglimbene V, Natale P, Gargano L, Murgo M, Loy CT, Tortelli R, Craig JC, Johnson DW, Tonelli M, Hegbrant J, Wollheim C, Logroscino G, Strippoli GF, Cagnazzo A, Antinoro R, Sambati M, Donatelli C, Dambrosio N, Saturno C, Marangelli A, Pedone F, Matera G, Benevento M, Papagni S, Alicino F, Latassa G, Molino A, Grippaldi F, Bertino D, Montalto G, Messina S, Campo S, Nasisi P, Failla A, Bua A, Pagano S, Marino G, Sanfilippo N, Rallo D, Maniscalco A, Capostagno C, Randazzo G, Fici M, Lupo A, Fichera R, D'angelo A, Di Toro Mammarella R, Meconizzi M, Boccia E, Mantuano M, Flammini A, Moscardelli L. Associations of Cognitive Function and Education Level With All-Cause Mortality in Adults on Hemodialysis: Findings From the COGNITIVE-HD Study. Am J Kidney Dis 2019; 74:452-462. [DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2019.03.424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Akula SM, Candido S, Libra M, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Lertpiriyapong K, Ramazzotti G, Ratti S, Follo MY, Martelli AM, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Bueno-Silva B, Matias de Alencar S, Montalto G, Cervello M, Gizak A, Rakus D, Mao W, Lin HL, Lombardi P, McCubrey JA. Abilities of berberine and chemically modified berberines to interact with metformin and inhibit proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. Adv Biol Regul 2019; 73:100633. [PMID: 31047842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is devastating cancer worldwide with few if any truly effective therapies. Pancreatic cancer has an increasing incidence and may become the second leading cause of death from cancer. Novel, more effective therapeutic approaches are needed as pancreatic cancer patients usually survive for less than a year after being diagnosed. Control of blood sugar levels by the prescription drug metformin in diseases such as diabetes mellitus has been examined in association with pancreatic cancer. While the clinical trials remain inconclusive, there is hope that certain diets and medications may affect positively the outcomes of patients with pancreatic and other cancers. Other natural compounds may share some of the effects of metformin. One "medicinal" fruit consumed by millions worldwide is berberine (BBR). Metformin and BBR both activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) which is a key mediator of glucose metabolism. Glucose metabolism has been shown to be very important in cancer and its significance is increasing. In the following studies, we have examined the effects of metformin, BBR and a panel of modified BBRs (NAX compounds) and chemotherapeutic drugs on the growth of four different human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines (PDAC). Interestingly, the effects of metformin could be enhanced by BBR and certain modified BBRs. Upon restoration of WT-TP53 activity in MIA-PaCa-2 cells, an altered sensitivity to the combination of certain NAX compounds and metformin was observed compared to the parental cells which normally lack WT-TP53. Certain NAX compounds may interact with WT-TP53 and metformin treatment to alter the expression of key molecules involved in cell growth. These results suggest a therapeutic approach by combining certain pharmaceutical drugs and nutraceuticals to suppress the growth of cancer cells.
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Candido S, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Lertpiriyapong K, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Ratti S, Follo MY, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Bueno-Silva B, de Alencar SM, Lombardi P, Mao W, Montalto G, Cervello M, Rakus D, Gizak A, Lin HL, Libra M, Akula SM, McCubrey JA. Effects of the MDM-2 inhibitor Nutlin-3a on PDAC cells containing and lacking WT-TP53 on sensitivity to chemotherapy, signal transduction inhibitors and nutraceuticals. Adv Biol Regul 2019; 72:22-40. [PMID: 30898612 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Mutations at the TP53 gene are readily detected (approximately 50-75%) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients. TP53 was previously thought to be a difficult target as it is often mutated, deleted or inactivated on both chromosomes in certain cancers. In the following study, the effects of restoration of wild-type (WT) TP53 activity on the sensitivities of MIA-PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cells to the MDM2 inhibitor nutlin-3a in combination with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, as well as, nutraceuticals were examined. Upon introduction of the WT-TP53 gene into MIA-PaCa-2 cells, which contain a TP53 gain of function (GOF) mutation, the sensitivity to the MDM2 inhibitor increased. However, effects of nutlin-3a were also observed in MIA-PaCa-2 cells lacking WT-TP53, as upon co-treatment with nutlin-3a, the sensitivity to certain inhibitors, chemotherapeutic drugs and nutraceuticals increased. Interestingly, co-treatment with nutlin-3a and certain chemotherapeutic drug such as irinotecan and oxaliplatin resulted in antagonistic effects in cells both lacking and containing WT-TP53 activity. These studies indicate the sensitizing abilities that WT-TP53 activity can have in PDAC cells which normally lack WT-TP53, as well as, the effects that the MDM2 inhibitor nutlin-3a can have in both cells containing and lacking WT-TP53 to various therapeutic agents.
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Patti AM, Nikolic D, Magan-Fernandez A, Giglio RV, Castellino G, Chianetta R, Citarrella R, Corrado E, Provenzano F, Provenzano V, Montalto G, Rizvi AA, Rizzo M. Exenatide once-weekly improves metabolic parameters, endothelial dysfunction and carotid intima-media thickness in patients with type-2 diabetes: An 8-month prospective study. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2019; 149:163-169. [PMID: 30759365 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effect of exenatide long acting release (LAR) on carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODS Sixty subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus were treated with exenatide LAR as add-on to stable doses of metformin for 8 months in an open label study. Anthropometric variables, lipid profile and glycemic parameters were assessed by routine analysis. Carotid IMT by Doppler ultrasound and endothelial function by flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery were also assessed. RESULTS Exenatide significantly improved fasting glycaemia (from 8.8 ± 2.8 to 7.3 ± 2.2 mmol/L, p < 0.0001), HbA1c (from 8.0 ± 0.4 to 6.9 ± 1.1%, p < 0.0001), body mass index (from 33 ± 9 to 31 ± 6 kg/m2, p = 0.0348) and waist circumference (from 109 ± 13 to 106 ± 13 cm, p = 0.0105). There was a significant improvement of the lipid profile, except in triglyceride level where no changes were observed. Carotid IMT and flow-mediated dilation were also improved (from 0.98 ± 0.14 to 0.87 ± 0.15 mm and from 5.8 ± 1.3 to 6.8 ± 1.7%, respectively; p < 0.0001 for both). CONCLUSIONS Treatment with exenatide LAR led to improved cardio-metabolic parameters, including carotid IMT and flow-mediated dilation, independently of glucometabolic control. These results may help to explain, at least in part, the cardiovascular safety of exenatide LAR, as recently reported in cardiovascular outcome trials.
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Abrams SL, Follo MY, Steelman LS, Lertpiriyapong K, Cocco L, Ratti S, Martelli AM, Candido S, Libra M, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Montalto G, Cervello M, Gizak A, Rakus D, Mao W, Lombardi P, McCubrey JA. Abilities of berberine and chemically modified berberines to inhibit proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. Adv Biol Regul 2019; 71:172-182. [PMID: 30361003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Berberine (BBR) is a common nutraceutical consumed by millions worldwide. BBR has many different effects on human health, e.g., diabetes, diarrhea, inflammation and now more recently it has been proposed to have potent anti-cancer effects. BBR has been shown to suppress the growth of cancer cells more than normal cells. BBR has been proposed to exert its growth-inhibitory effects by many different biochemical mechanisms including: suppression of cell cycle progression, induction of reactive oxygen species, induction of apoptosis and autophagy and interactions with DNA potentially leading to DNA damage, and altered gene expression. Pancreatic cancer is a leading cancer worldwide associated with a poor prognosis. As our population ages, pancreatic cancer has an increasing incidence and will likely become the second leading cause of death from cancer. There are few truly-effective therapeutic options for pancreatic cancer. Surgery and certain chemotherapeutic drugs are used to treat pancreatic cancer patients. Novel approaches to treat pancreatic cancer patients are direly needed as they usually survive for less than a year after being diagnosed. In the following manuscript, we discuss the abilities of BBR and certain chemically-modified BBRs (NAX compounds) to suppress growth of pancreatic cancer cells.
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Augello G, Emma MR, Cusimano A, Azzolina A, Mongiovì S, Puleio R, Cassata G, Gulino A, Belmonte B, Gramignoli R, Strom SC, McCubrey JA, Montalto G, Cervello M. Targeting HSP90 with the small molecule inhibitor AUY922 (luminespib) as a treatment strategy against hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2018; 144:2613-2624. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Novo G, Macaione F, Giannitrapani L, Minissale MG, Bonomo V, Indovina F, Petta S, Soresi M, Montalto G, Novo S, Craxi A, Licata A. Subclinical cardiovascular damage in patients with HCV cirrhosis before and after treatment with direct antiviral agents: a prospective study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2018; 48:740-749. [PMID: 30095177 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis is associated with morpho-functional cardiovascular alterations. AIMS To detect early features of cardiovascular damage in HCV-compensated cirrhotic patients using myocardial deformation indices and carotid arterial stiffness, and, further, to evaluate their short-term behaviour after HCV eradication with direct antiviral agents (DAAs). METHODS Thirty-nine consecutive patients with HCV cirrhosis, without previous cardiovascular events, were studied and matched for age, gender and cardiovascular risk factors to 39 controls without liver or cardiovascular disease. Patients and controls underwent a baseline echocardiographic evaluation including global longitudinal strain and ultrasound scan of carotid arteries. HCV-cirrhotics were reassessed by echocardiography and carotid ultrasound after obtaining sustained virological response (SVR) on DAAs. RESULTS HCV-cirrhotics showed at baseline a significantly reduced global longitudinal strain compared to controls -18.1 (16.3-20.5) vs -21.2 (20.4-22.3), P < 0.001. They also had a significantly higher pulse wave velocity 8.6 (7.7-9.1) m/s vs 6.6 (6.0-7.1) m/s, P = 0.0001, and β-stiffness index 12.4 (11.1-13.5) vs 8.6 (8.0-9.2) P = 0.0001. At multiple regression analysis, diabetes and HCV cirrhosis were independent predictors of global longitudinal strain. All HCV-cirrhotic patients had SVR on DAAs. Follow-up available in 32 of 39 (82%) at 9 (8-10) months showed a significant improvement of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (P = 0.01) and lateral E' velocity compared to baseline (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS HCV-cirrhotics show a significant rate of subclinical cardiac and vascular abnormalities. At a time when their survival is less linked to progression of liver disease, due to viral eradication on DAAs, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality may take a significant role.
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Giannitrapani L, Granà W, Licata A, Schiavone C, Montalto G, Soresi M. Nontumorous Portal Vein Thrombosis in Liver Cirrhosis: Possible Role of β-Blockers. Med Princ Pract 2018; 27:466-471. [PMID: 30107378 PMCID: PMC6243908 DOI: 10.1159/000492893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nonselective β-blockers (NSBB) are used in liver cirrhosis (LC) to prevent variceal bleeding because they decrease portal pressure. A main risk factor for the development of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in LC is decreased portal vein inflow velocity. The aim of our study was to examine retrospectively the incidence of PVT and its correlation with the use of β-blockers in a cohort of LC patients. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Data from 230 LC patients (90% Child-Pugh class A), who had been followed up for at least 5 years, were reviewed. The diagnosis of PVT was made by ultrasound. The presence of PVT was evaluated with multiple logistic regression analysis where the independent variables were those significant in the univariate analysis. RESULTS The prevalence of PVT at baseline was 4.5%, and the incidence was 4.3% at 5 years; among the subjects taking β blockers, 46.4% were taking NSBB. A total of 19 PVT cases were found. Grade of esophageal varices (p < 0.01), PLT (p < 0.003), INR (p < 0.03), spleen diameter (p < 0.001) and PLT/spleen ratio (p < 0.0005) were significantly associated with PVT. The use of NSBB indicated a higher risk of PVT compared to selective β-blockers (SBB) (p < 0.05). In logistic regression analysis only the grade of esophageal varices was significant (p < 0.02). Univariate analysis of patients taking β-blockers showed an association of PVT with grade of esophageal varices (p < 0.01), CP class (p < 0.02), AST (p < 0.03), ALT and albumin (p < 0.02), PLT count and PLT/LD (p < 0.03), longitudinal diameter of the spleen (p < 0.005), ascites (p < 0.05), portal vein (p < 0.0001) and NSBB (OR 8.1; 95% CI 1.7-38.8). CONCLUSION NSBB seem to play a role in PV thrombogenesis. Further studies are needed, especially in decompensated LC patients.
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Chappell WH, Candido S, Abrams SL, Russo S, Ove R, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Ramazzotti G, Cervello M, Montalto G, Steelman LS, Leng X, Arlinghaus RB, Libra M, McCubrey JA. Roles of p53, NF-κB and the androgen receptor in controlling NGAL expression in prostate cancer cell lines. Adv Biol Regul 2018; 69:43-62. [PMID: 29861174 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL a.k.a lipocalin 2, lnc2) is a secreted protein which can form a complex with matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9). This MMP9/NGAL complex has been associated with metastasis. MMP9 and NGAL are detected in the urine of patients afflicted with many different types of cancer, including prostate cancer. The effects of p53, NF-κB and the androgen receptor (AR) on the expression of NGAL was examined in four prostate cancer cell lines. Prostate cancer cell lines that are AR negative and expressed either mutant or no p53 (DU145 and PC3) displayed higher levels of NGAL expression compared to the prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP and 22Rv-1) which are AR positive and express wild type (WT) p53. Introduction of WT-p53 into the PC3 prostate cancer cell line, resulted in reduction of the levels of NGAL expression. Conversely, introduction of dominant negative (DN) p53 or a retroviral construct expressing NF-κB into LNCaP cells increased NGAL expression. NGAL expression had functional effects on the ability of the cells to form colonies in soft agar. Whereas suppression of WT-53 in LNCaP cells increased NGAL expression, the introduction of WT-p53 suppressed NGAL transcription activity in PC3 prostate cells which normally express high level of NGAL. NF-κB and p53 were determined to regulate NGAL expression by positive and negative mechanisms, respectively. Our data indicate that prostate cancer growth, progression and sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs are regulated in part by NGAL and may involve complex interactions between NGAL, MMP9, NF-κB and p53.
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Magan-Fernandez A, Rizzo M, Montalto G, Marchesini G. Statins in liver disease: not only prevention of cardiovascular events. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 12:743-744. [PMID: 29768950 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2018.1477588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Abrams SL, Lertpiriyapong K, Yang LV, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Ratti S, Falasca M, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Lombardi P, Libra M, Candido S, Montalto G, Cervello M, Steelman LS, McCubrey JA. Introduction of WT-TP53 into pancreatic cancer cells alters sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs, targeted therapeutics and nutraceuticals. Adv Biol Regul 2018; 69:16-34. [PMID: 29980405 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive, highly metastatic malignancy and accounts for 85% of pancreatic cancers. PDAC patients have poor prognosis with a five-year survival of only 5-10%. Mutations at the TP53 gene are readily detected in pancreatic tumors isolated from PDAC patients. We have investigated the effects of restoration of wild-type (WT) TP53 activity on the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to: chemotherapy, targeted therapy, as well as, nutraceuticals. Upon introduction of the WT-TP53 gene into the MIA-PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer cell line, the sensitivity to drugs used to treat pancreatic cancer cells such as: gemcitabine, fluorouracil (5FU), cisplatin, irinotecan, oxaliplatin, and paclitaxel increased significantly. Likewise, the sensitivity to drugs used to treat other cancers such as: doxorubicin, mitoxantrone, and 4 hydroxy tamoxifen (4HT) also increased upon introduction of WT-TP53 into MIA-PaCa-2 cells. Furthermore, the sensitivity to certain inhibitors which target: PI3K/mTORC1, PDK1, SRC, GSK-3, and biochemical processes such as proteasomal degradation and the nutraceutical berberine as increased upon introduction of WT-TP53. Furthermore, in some cases, cells with WT-TP53 were more sensitive to the combination of drugs and suboptimal doses of the MDM2 inhibitor nutlin-3a. However, TP53-independent effects of nutlin-3a were observed upon treatment with either a proteasomal or a PI3K/mTOR inhibitor. These studies indicate the sensitizing effects that WT-TP53 can have in PDAC cells which normally lack WT-TP53 to various therapeutic agents and suggest approaches to improve PDAC therapy.
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Nikolic D, Castellino G, Banach M, Toth PP, Ivanova E, Orekhov AN, Montalto G, Rizzo M. PPAR Agonists, Atherogenic Dyslipidemia and Cardiovascular Risk. Curr Pharm Des 2018; 23:894-902. [PMID: 27719644 DOI: 10.2174/1381612822666161006151134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) are implicated in the pathology of several metabolic diseases including obesity, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. PPAR agonists exert multiple lipid modifying actions which are beneficial to the prevention of atherosclerosis. Such benefits in lipid lowering actions include improvements in atherogenic dyslipidemia that seems to be particularly expressed in individuals at higher cardiovascular (CV) risk. In addition, the favorable effects of PPAR agonists on different cardio-metabolic parameters are established in several metabolic conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, and heightened systemic inflammation. The goal of this review is to summarize the current evidence on PPAR agonists and their effects on atherogenic dyslipidemia and CV risk. The main findings indicate that PPAR agonists improve not only the lipid profile, but also lipoprotein subfractions associated with atherogenic dyslipidemia and other CV markers. However, future prospective studies are required to establish the long-term effects of such therapies on atherogenic lipoproteins and their benefit on CV outcomes.
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Patti AM, Toth PP, Giglio RV, Banach M, Noto M, Nikolic D, Montalto G, Rizzo M. Nutraceuticals as an Important Part of Combination Therapy in Dyslipidaemia. Curr Pharm Des 2018; 23:2496-2503. [PMID: 28317482 DOI: 10.2174/1381612823666170317145851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several risk factors such as abnormality of lipid metabolism (e.g. high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), elevated triglycerides and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)) play a central role in the aetiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nutraceutical combination together with a cholesterol- lowering action, when associated with suitable lifestyle, should furnish an alternative to pharmacotherapy in patients reporting statin-intolerance and in subjects at low cardiovascular risk. The present review is focused on nutraceuticals and their synergetic combinations demonstrating a beneficial effect in the management of dyslipidaemia. Several nutraceuticals have been shown to positively modulate lipid metabolism having different functions. Plant sterols and soluble fibres can, for example, decrease the intestinal assimilation of lipids and increase their elimination. Furthermore, berberine and soybean proteins improve the cholesterol uptake in the liver. Policosanols, monacolins and bergamot inhibit hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCoA reductase) enzyme action determining the cholesterol hepatic synthesis. Moreover, pomegranate can decrease LDL oxidation and positively affect subclinical atherosclerosis; red yeast rice and berberine play, instead, an important role on endothelial dysfunction and psyllium, plant sterols and bergamot have positive effects on LDL subclasses. To the best of our knowledge, there are no long-term large-scale studies on the anti-atherogenic effect of the nutraceuticals that are available on the market. Thus, further clinical studies should investigate in order to achieve long term tolerability and safety and to provide a better nutraceutical combination tailored to the patient needs.
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Candido S, Abrams SL, Steelman L, Lertpiriyapong K, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Ratti S, Follo MY, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Lombardi P, Montalto G, Cervello M, Gizak A, Rakus D, Suh PG, Libra M, McCubrey JA. Metformin influences drug sensitivity in pancreatic cancer cells. Adv Biol Regul 2018; 68:13-30. [PMID: 29482945 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive, highly metastatic malignancy and accounts for 85% of pancreatic cancers. PDAC patients have poor prognosis with a five-year survival of only 5-10% after diagnosis and treatment. Pancreatic cancer has been associated with type II diabetes as the frequency of recently diagnosed diabetics that develop pancreatic cancer within a 10-year period of initial diagnosis of diabetes in increased in comparison to non-diabetic patients. Metformin is a very frequently prescribed drug used to treat type II diabetes. Metformin acts in part by stimulating AMP-kinase (AMPK) and results in the suppression of mTORC1 activity and the induction of autophagy. In the following studies, we have examined the effects of metformin in the presence of various chemotherapeutic drugs, signal transduction inhibitors and natural products on the growth of three different PDAC lines. Metformin, by itself, was not effective at suppressing growth of the pancreatic cancer cell lines at concentration less than 1000 nM, however, in certain PDAC lines, a suboptimal dose of metformin (250 nM) potentiated the effects of various chemotherapeutic drugs used to treat pancreatic cancer (e.g., gemcitabine, cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil) and other cancer types (e.g., doxorubicin, docetaxel). Furthermore, metformin could increase anti-proliferative effects of mTORC1 and PI3K/mTOR inhibitors as well as natural products such as berberine and the anti-malarial drug chloroquine in certain PDAC lines. Thus, metformin can enhance the effects of certain drugs and signal transduction inhibitors which are used to treat pancreatic and various other cancers.
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Scaduto F, Giglio RV, Benfante A, Nikolic D, Montalto G, Rizzo M, Scichilone N. Serum lipoproteins are not associated with the severity of asthma. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2018; 50:57-61. [PMID: 29626633 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the bronchi with a complicated and largely unknown pathogenesis. In this context, an emerging role is attributed to the apolipoproteins which serve as structural components of plasma lipoproteins. Low density lipoproteins (LDL) may be involved in the inflammatory pathways of the asthmatic airways; in particular, small dense LDL (sdLDL) particles were associated with increased oxidative susceptibility compared to medium and large sized LDL. In our previous study, we found a positive correlation between forced expiratory volume 1 s (FEV1) % predicted and larger LDL particles (LDL-1), and an inverse correlation between FEV1% predicted and sdLDL (LDL-3) in mild, untreated asthmatics. Although LDL appear to be important modulators of inflammation, data on their clinical implications are still lacking. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to investigate whether LDL subclasses correlate with the severity of asthma, assuming that the atherogenic and most pro-inflammatory LDL contribute to ignite and perpetuate the airway inflammatory processes. METHODS The study was conducted in one visit, and included clinical and lung functional assessments, as well as measurements of serum concentrations of the LDL subclasses. Non-denaturing, linear polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was used to separate and measure LDL subclasses, with the LipoPrint© System (Quantimetrix Corporation, Redondo Beach, CA, USA). LDL subclasses were distributed as seven bands (LDL-1 to LDL-7), LDL-1 and -2 being defined as large LDL (least pro-inflammatory), and LDL-3 to 7 defined as sdLDL (most pro-inflammatory). RESULTS 70 asthmatics under inhaled treatment (M/F: 35/35) were enrolled; 10 healthy subjects (M/F: 3/7) served as controls. In the asthmatic group, FEV1% predicted was 81 ± 22% (mean ± SD), vital capacity (VC) % predicted was 97 ± 18%, and FEV1/FVC was 0.68 ± 0.1. The mean asthma control test (ACT) score was 18 ± 5. LDL-1 were significantly lower in asthmatics as compared to controls (18 ± 4% vs. 22 ± 4%, p = 0.008). On the contrary, LDL-2 (12 ± 4% vs. 12 ± 5%) and LDL-3 (3 ± 3% vs. 2 ± 2%) were not statistically different between the two groups; smaller subclasses were undetectable. To comply with the design of the study, subjects were classified according to their degree of severity into the 5 Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) steps: Step 1 (M/F: 4/3, 44 ± 12 yrs), Step 2 (M/F: 1/2, 37 ± 11 yrs), Step 3 (M/F: 12/7, 47 ± 12 yrs), Step 4 (M/F: 8/15, 54 ± 12 yrs), and Step 5 (M/F: 7/9, 56 ± 9 yrs). None of the LDL subclasses showed significant differences between classes of severity: LDL-1 were 16.1 ± 5.6% in Step 1, 18 ± 2.8% in Step 2, 16.7 ± 3.7% in Step 3, 18 ± 3.3% in Step 4, and 19.5 ± 3.2% in Step 5 (p = NS); LDL2 were 14 ± 3.6%, 15 ± 3.4%, 12.4 ± 5.3%, 12.7 ± 4.4% and 11.3 ± 4.2%, respectively (p = NS); LDL3 were 5 ± 5.2%, 4.4 ± 2.6%, 3.3 ± 3.6%, 3.2 ± 2.6% and 2.4 ± 1.8%, p = NS. Finally, no relationship was detected between LDL subclasses and lung function parameters as well as the ACT scores. CONCLUSIONS The current findings confirm a role of LDL as a potential biomarker in the diagnostic process for asthma, and suggest that LDL cannot be used as marker of severity of the disease.
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Licata A, Montalto G, Soresi M. Pancreatic cancer: risk and preventive factors. Intern Emerg Med 2018; 13:321-323. [PMID: 29417381 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-018-1795-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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McCubrey JA, Lertpiriyapong K, Steelman LS, Abrams SL, Yang LV, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Scalisi A, Neri LM, Cocco L, Ratti S, Martelli AM, Laidler P, Dulińska-Litewka J, Rakus D, Gizak A, Lombardi P, Nicoletti F, Candido S, Libra M, Montalto G, Cervello M. Effects of resveratrol, curcumin, berberine and other nutraceuticals on aging, cancer development, cancer stem cells and microRNAs. Aging (Albany NY) 2018; 9:1477-1536. [PMID: 28611316 PMCID: PMC5509453 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Natural products or nutraceuticals have been shown to elicit anti-aging, anti-cancer and other health-enhancing effects. A key target of the effects of natural products may be the regulation of microRNA (miR) expression which results in cell death or prevents aging, diabetes, cardiovascular and other diseases. This review will focus on a few natural products, especially on resveratrol (RES), curcumin (CUR) and berberine (BBR). RES is obtained from the skins of grapes and other fruits and berries. RES may extend human lifespan by activating the sirtuins and SIRT1 molecules. CUR is isolated from the root of turmeric (Curcuma longa). CUR is currently used in the treatment of many disorders, especially in those involving an inflammatory process. CUR and modified derivatives have been shown to have potent anti-cancer effects, especially on cancer stem cells (CSC). BBR is also isolated from various plants (e.g., Coptis chinensis) and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat diseases such as adult- onset diabetes. Understanding the benefits of these and other nutraceuticals may result in approaches to improve human health.
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Augello G, Balasus D, Fusilli C, Mazza T, Emma MR, Giannitrapani L, Agliastro R, Cervello M, Montalto G. Association Between MICA Gene Variants and the Risk of Hepatitis C Virus-Induced Hepatocellular Cancer in a Sicilian Population Sample. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2018; 22:274-282. [PMID: 29584564 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2017.0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
There are currently no biomarkers that predict hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis. We investigated the relationships among major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I chain-related gene A (MICA) polymorphisms, plasma levels of soluble MICA (sMICA), and HCC risk in patients with HCV-related HCC. One hundred fifty-four HCV-related HCC patients, 93 HCV-related liver cirrhosis (LC) cases, and 244 healthy controls, all sampled from the native Sicilian population, were genotyped using the KASP™ single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping method. The MICA rs2596542 polymorphism showed that the G/G genotype was significantly more frequent in HCC than control subjects and LC patients (p < 0.005). For MICA rs2596538 polymorphism, the C allele and C/C genotype were significantly more frequent in HCC than in controls and LC cases (p < 0.005), after controlling for potential confounders. These results demonstrate that MICA rs2596542G/G, and particularly the rs2596538C/C polymorphism, are associated with the risk of developing HCV-related HCC in a Sicilian population sample. Importantly, using a machine learning classifier, we found that "age" and either rs2596542 or rs2596538 were important discriminating factors for patients with LC and HCC. Finally, sMICA levels significantly increased during HCV-related liver disease progression, while a significant relationship between both rs2596542 and rs2596538 genotypes and sMICA plasma levels was identified in patients with LC and HCC. In summary, the MICA rs2596538 and rs2596542 variants warrant further research for their clinical validity and utility in relationship to the risk of developing HCV-related HCC in independent populations.
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Patti AM, Al-Rasadi K, Giglio RV, Nikolic D, Mannina C, Castellino G, Chianetta R, Banach M, Cicero AF, Lippi G, Montalto G, Rizzo M, Toth PP. Natural approaches in metabolic syndrome management. Arch Med Sci 2018; 14:422-441. [PMID: 29593818 PMCID: PMC5868676 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2017.68717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized as a group of cardiometabolic risk factors that raise the risk for heart disease and other health problems, such as diabetes mellitus and stroke. Treatment strategies include pharmacologic interventions and supplementary (or "alternative") treatments. Nutraceuticals are derived from food sources (isolated nutrients, dietary supplements and herbal products) that are purported to provide health benefits, in addition to providing basic nutritional value. Nutraceuticals are claimed to prevent chronic diseases, improve health, delay the aging process, increase life expectancy, and support the structure and function of the body. The study of the beneficial effects of nutraceuticals in patients with MetS, including product standardization, duration of supplementation and definition of optimal dosing, could help better define appropriate treatment. This review focuses on widely marketed nutraceuticals (namely polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, macroelements and vitamins) with clinically demonstrated effects on more than one component of MetS.
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Li Vecchi M, La Spada E, Li Vecchi V, Montalto G. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Hemodialyzed Patients. Int J Artif Organs 2018; 30:100-7. [PMID: 17377904 DOI: 10.1177/039139880703000204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In spite of our present improved knowledge of the epidemiology and pathways of contamination of the hepatitis C virus (HCV), infection still remains a public health problem. One category of patients who have suffered greatly from the consequences of HCV infection is certainly that of hemodialysis patients. In the past, in fact, their need for transfusions exposed these patients to infection and, as a result, subjects on dialysis for over 15 years are today paying the price for those inevitable transfusions, as the virus and its pathways of contagion were unknown then. However, still today, albeit at a much lower prevalence, even subjects with a shorter dialysis age present a higher prevalence of anti-HCV than the general population, suggesting that other factors of contamination than the classical ones contribute to keeping this prevalence high. Its clinical course is generally asymptomatic and the biological and virological progression of the disease is quite particular and apparently benign. The mortality rate of infected patients is higher than in non-infected subjects and this is not only due to the liver disease itself but also to cardiovascular disorders. Even anti-viral therapy, after its first timid steps, is now routinely used in patients with a certain degree of liver damage and kidney transplant candidates. The appropriate use of pegylated interferons is expected to improve the percentage of eradication and limit side effects, in parallel with what has been observed in non-dialysis patients. Ribavirin, however, is at present contraindicated due to its toxic effects on red blood cells as hemoglobin content could be dangerously reduced in these patients.
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McCubrey JA, Abrams SL, Lertpiriyapong K, Cocco L, Ratti S, Martelli AM, Candido S, Libra M, Murata RM, Rosalen PL, Lombardi P, Montalto G, Cervello M, Gizak A, Rakus D, Steelman LS. Effects of berberine, curcumin, resveratrol alone and in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs and signal transduction inhibitors on cancer cells-Power of nutraceuticals. Adv Biol Regul 2018; 67:190-211. [PMID: 28988970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2017.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the past fifty years, society has become aware of the importance of a healthy diet in terms of human fitness and longevity. More recently, the concept of the beneficial effects of certain components of our diet and other compounds, that are consumed often by different cultures in various parts of the world, has become apparent. These "healthy" components of our diet are often referred to as nutraceuticals and they can prevent/suppress: aging, bacterial, fungal and viral infections, diabetes, inflammation, metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases and have other health-enhancing effects. Moreover, they are now often being investigated because of their anti-cancer properties/potentials. Understanding the effects of various natural products on cancer cells may enhance their usage as anti-proliferative agents which may be beneficial for many health problems. In this manuscript, we discuss and demonstrate how certain nutraceuticals may enhance other anti-cancer drugs to suppress proliferation of cancer cells.
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