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Carluccio E, Biagioli P, Alunni G, Murrone A, Leonelli V, Pantano P, Vincenti G, Giombolini C, Ragni T, Reboldi G, Gentile F, Ambrosio G. Effect of revascularizing viable myocardium on left ventricular diastolic function in patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy. Eur Heart J 2009; 30:1501-9. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehp125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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77
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Sarnelli G, De Giorgio R, Gentile F, Calì G, Grandone I, Rocco A, Cosenza V, Cuomo R, D'Argenio G. Myenteric neuronal loss in rats with experimental colitis: role of tissue transglutaminase-induced apoptosis. Dig Liver Dis 2009; 41:185-93. [PMID: 18635410 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2008.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2008] [Revised: 05/16/2008] [Accepted: 06/05/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Transglutaminases are tissue enzymes involved in different neuronal processes including maintenance and signalling. However, their up-regulation elicited by a variety of noxae contributes to neurodegeneration. This study tested the hypothesis that experimental inflammation evoked transglutaminase up-regulation in myenteric neurons and that this event had an impact on neuronal survival. METHODS Rats with or without trinitro-benzene-sulphonic acid-induced colitis were used. One week after colitis induction, longitudinal muscle-myenteric plexus preparations were obtained from left colon to assess tissue-transglutaminase activity, protein and mRNA expression. Double labelling immunofluorescence using antibodies to neuron-specific enolase and transglutaminase was performed to identify myenteric neurons expressing transglutaminase. Additional sets of experiments evaluated the involvement of transglutaminase in the apoptotic process of cultured myenteric neurons. RESULTS Compared to controls, rats with colitis showed several tranglutaminase/neuron-specific enolase positive myenteric neurons. Western blot analysis and RT-PCR confirmed that in rats with colitis, the increased neuronal transglutaminase-immunoreactivity was associated with an increased enzyme expression. Similarly, transglutaminase activity was significantly higher than in controls (1100+/-280 m U/g vs. 725+/-119 m U/g, p<0.05). In cultured myenteric neurons incubation with the specific transglutaminase inducer, retinoic acid, significantly increased neuronal apoptosis, whereas the presence of cystamine significantly reduced the number of apoptotic neurons. CONCLUSIONS Experimental colitis evoked transglutaminase up-regulation and increased activity in myenteric neurons. This mechanism enhances neuronal susceptibility to apoptosis and could contribute to neuropathic changes during gut inflammation.
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Gentile F, Chiappini C, Fine D, Bhavane RC, Peluccio MS, Cheng MMC, Liu X, Ferrari M, Decuzzi P. The effect of shape on the margination dynamics of non-neutrally buoyant particles in two-dimensional shear flows. J Biomech 2008; 41:2312-8. [PMID: 18571181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2008.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2007] [Revised: 03/19/2008] [Accepted: 03/23/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The margination dynamics of microparticles with different shapes has been analyzed within a laminar flow mimicking the hydrodynamic conditions in the microcirculation. Silica spherical particles, quasi-hemispherical and discoidal silicon particles have been perfused in a parallel plate flow chamber. The effect of the shape and density on their margination propensity has been investigated at different physiologically relevant shear rates S. Simple scaling laws have been derived showing that the number n of marginating particles scales as S(-0.63) for the spheres; S(-0.85) for discoidal and S(-1) for quasi-hemispherical particles, regardless of their density and size. Within the range considered for the shear rate, discoidal particles marginate in a larger number compared to quasi-hemispherical and spherical particles. These results may be of interest in drug delivery and bio-imaging applications, where particles are expected to drift towards and interact with the walls of the blood vessels.
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Gentile F, Bisantino T, Corbino R, Milillo F, Romano G, Trisorio Liuzzi G. Sediment transport monitoring in a Northern Puglia watershed. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.2495/deb080161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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80
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Reynaud L, Graf M, Gentile I, Cerini R, Ciampi R, Noce S, Borrelli F, Viola C, Gentile F, Briganti F, Borgia G. A rare case of brainstem encephalitis by Listeria monocytogenes with isolated mesencephalic localization. Case report and review. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 58:121-3. [PMID: 17408902 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2006.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2006] [Revised: 10/29/2006] [Accepted: 11/01/2006] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We describe a case of brainstem infection by Listeria monocytogenes with right oculomotor palsy and lip drop, facial hypoesthesia, left arm paresthesia, positive blood culture, and sterile liquor in a 63-year-old man. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an isolated mesencephalic lesion. Localization of this kind accounted for 3% of 111 cases reviewed.
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81
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Ames PRJ, Delgado Alves J, Lopez LR, Gentile F, Margarita A, Pizzella L, Batuca J, Scenna G, Brancaccio V, Matsuura E. Antibodies against beta2-glycoprotein I complexed with an oxidised lipoprotein relate to intima thickening of carotid arteries in primary antiphospholipid syndrome. Clin Dev Immunol 2006; 13:1-9. [PMID: 16603439 PMCID: PMC2270747 DOI: 10.1080/17402520600554930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
To explore whether antibodies against β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI) complexed to 7-ketocholesteryl-9-carboxynonanoate (oxLig-1) and to oxidised low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL) relate to paraoxonase activity (PONa) and/or intima media thickness (IMT) of carotid arteries in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). As many as 29 thrombotic patients with PAPS, 10 subjects with idiopathic antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) without thrombosis, 17 thrombotic patients with inherited thrombophilia and 23 healthy controls were investigated. The following were measured in all participants: β2GPI−oxLDL complexes, IgG anti-β2GPI−oxLig-1, IgG anti-β2GPI−oxLDL antibodies (ELISA), PONa, (para-nitrophenol method), IMT of common carotid (CC) artery, carotid bifurcation (B), internal carotid (IC) by high resolution sonography. β2GPI−oxLDL complex was highest in the control group (p < 0.01), whereas, IgG anti-β2GPI−oxLig1 and IgG anti-β2GPI−oxLDL were highest in PAPS (p < 0.0001). In healthy controls, β2GPI−oxLDL complexes positively correlated to IMT of the IC (p = 0.007) and negatively to PONa after correction for age (p < 0.03). PONa inversely correlated with age (p = 0.008). In PAPS, IgG anti-2GPI−oxLig-1 independently predicted PONa (p = 0.02) and IMT of B (p = 0.003), CC, (p = 0.03) and of IC (p = 0.04). In PAPS, PONa inversely correlated to the IMT of B, CC and IC (p = 0.01, 0.02 and 0.003, respectively). IgG anti-2GPI−oxLig-1 may be involved in PAPS related atherogenesis via decreased PON activity.
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82
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Conte M, Arcaro A, D'Angelo D, Gnata A, Mamone G, Ferranti P, Formisano S, Gentile F. A single chondroitin 6-sulfate oligosaccharide unit at Ser-2730 of human thyroglobulin enhances hormone formation and limits proteolytic accessibility at the carboxyl terminus. Potential insights into thyroid homeostasis and autoimmunity. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:22200-22211. [PMID: 16679516 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m513382200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We localized the site of type D (chondroitin 6-sulfate) oligosaccharide unit addition to human thyroglobulin (hTg). hTg was chromatographically separated into chondroitin 6-sulfate-containing (hTg-CS) and chondroitin 6-sulfate-devoid (hTg-CS0) molecules on the basis of their D-glucuronic acid content. In an ample number of hTg preparations, the fraction of hTg-CS in total hTg ranged from 32.0 to 71.6%. By exploiting the electrophoretic mobility shift and metachromasia conferred by chondroitin 6-sulfate upon the products of limited proteolysis of hTg, chondroitin 6-sulfate was first restricted to a carboxyl-terminal region, starting at residue 2514. A single chondroitin 6-sulfate-containing nonapeptide was isolated in pure form from the products of digestion of hTg with endoproteinase Glu-C, and its sequence was determined as LTAGXGLRE (residues 2726-2734, X being Ser2730 linked to the oligosaccharide chain). In an in vitro assay of enzymatic iodination, hTg-CS produced higher yields of 3,5,5 '-triiodothyronine (T3) (171%) and 3,5,3',5'-tetraiodothyronine (T4) (134%) than hTg-CS0. Unfractionated hTg behaved as hTg-CS. Thus, chondroitin 6-sulfate addition to a subset of hTg molecules enhanced the overall level of T4 and, in particular, T3 formation. Furthermore, the chondroitin 6-sulfate oligosaccharide unit of hTg-CS protected peptide bond Lys2714-Gly2715 from proteolysis, during the limited digestion of hTg-CS with trypsin. These findings provide insights into the molecular mechanism of regulation of the hormonogenic efficiency and of the T4/T3 ratio in hTg. The potential implications in the ability of hTg to function as an autoantigen and into the pathogenesis of thyroidal and extra-thyroidal manifestations of autoimmune thyroid disease are discussed.
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Tripodi SA, D'Amore ES, D'Agata A, Barbanti G, Gentile F, Pergola L, Del Vecchio MT, Cintorino M. Expression of chemo-resistance markers in multiple metachronous teratoma metastasis following nonseminomatous germ cell tumor. MINERVA CHIR 2006; 61:181-2. [PMID: 16871152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
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84
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Borzacchiello G, Russo V, Gentile F, Roperto F, Venuti A, Nitsch L, Campo MS, Roperto S. Bovine papillomavirus E5 oncoprotein binds to the activated form of the platelet-derived growth factor beta receptor in naturally occurring bovine urinary bladder tumours. Oncogene 2006; 25:1251-60. [PMID: 16205631 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1209152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Studies regarding the functions of the bovine papillomavirus (BPV) E5 oncoprotein in vivo are lacking and no E5-mediated mechanism underlying epithelial carcinogenesis is known. We have shown that BPV-2 DNA is present in the majority of naturally occurring urinary bladder tumours of cattle and that E5 is expressed in the cancer cells. Here we show that the interaction between the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) beta receptor and BPV E5, described in vitro in cultured cells, takes place in vivo in bovine urinary bladder cancers. In these cancers, E5 and PDGF beta receptor colocalize, as shown by confocal microscopy, and physically interact, as shown by coimmunoprecipitation. Furthermore, the PDGF beta receptor associated with E5 is highly phosphorylated, suggesting the functional activation of the receptor upon E5 interaction. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, that E5-PDGF beta receptor interaction occurs during the natural history of bovine urinary bladder tumours, suggesting an important role for E5 in carcinogenesis. Finally, the system provides a suitable animal model of papillomavirus-associated cancer to test therapeutic vaccination against E5. Successful bladder tumour regression would provide a valuable model for therapeutic vaccination against papillomavirus-associated tumours.
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85
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Bagattini M, Crivaro V, Di Popolo A, Gentile F, Scarcella A, Triassi M, Villari P, Zarrilli R. Molecular epidemiology of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in a neonatal intensive care unit. J Antimicrob Chemother 2006; 57:979-82. [PMID: 16531430 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkl077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the molecular epidemiology of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in the neonatal intensive care unit of a university hospital in Italy. METHODS Antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated by disc diffusion and Etest. ESBLs were identified by isoelectric focusing, PCR and DNA sequencing analysis. Genotyping was performed by PFGE analysis. Conjugation was performed by broth mating. RESULTS Molecular typing of K. pneumoniae isolates identified three distinct PFGE patterns. Isolates of PFGE profile A were isolated during an epidemic in 1996, while isolates of PFGE profiles B and C were sequentially isolated from September 2002 to December 2004, when 233 colonizations and 19 infections by K. pneumoniae occurred. All K. pneumoniae strains of different PFGE types were identified as ESBL producers. DNA sequencing of amplified beta-lactamase genes identified a novel bla(TEM) ESBL (bla(TEM-136)) along with bla(SHV-1) in chromosomal and plasmid DNA from K. pneumoniae of PFGE type A, respectively, and bla(TEM-1) and bla(SHV-12) in plasmid DNA from K. pneumoniae of PFGE types B and C. Conjugation experiments demonstrated that resistance to third-generation cephalosporins, along with an approximately 80 kb plasmid containing bla(SHV-12) and bla(TEM-1), was transferred from K. pneumoniae epidemic strains of PFGE types B and C to a susceptible Escherichia coli host at a frequency of 4 x 10(-6) and 1 x 10(-6) cfu/recipient cell, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The selection of ESBL-producing clones and the transfer of the bla(SHV-12) ESBL gene between different clones were responsible for the spread of K. pneumoniae in the neonatal intensive care unit.
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86
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Popescu BA, Antonini-Canterin F, Temporelli PL, Giannuzzi P, Bosimini E, Gentile F, Maggioni AP, Tavazzi L, Piazza R, Ascione L, Stoian I, Cervesato E, Popescu AC, Nicolosi GL. Right ventricular functional recovery after acute myocardial infarction: relation with left ventricular function and interventricular septum motion. GISSI-3 echo substudy. Heart 2005; 91:484-8. [PMID: 15772207 PMCID: PMC1768807 DOI: 10.1136/hrt.2003.028050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the pattern of right ventricular (RV) functional recovery and its relation with left ventricular (LV) function and interventricular septal (IVS) motion in low risk patients after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). DESIGN AND SETTING Multicentre clinical trial carried out in 47 Italian coronary care units. PATIENTS 500 patients from the GISSI (Gruppo Italiano per lo Studio della Sopravvivenza nell'Infarto Miocardico) -3 echo substudy, who underwent serial echocardiograms 24-48 hours after symptom onset and at discharge, six weeks, and six months after AMI. RESULTS Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) increased significantly during follow up (mean (SD) 1.79 (0.46) cm at 24-48 hours to 1.92 (0.46) cm at six months, p < 0.001) and the increase was already significant at discharge (1.88 (0.47) cm, p < 0.001). LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was the best correlate of TAPSE at 24-48 hours (r = 0.15, p = 0.001). TAPSE increased significantly in patients both with reduced (< 45%) and with preserved (> or = 45%) LVEF, but the magnitude of increase was higher in patients with lower initial LVEF (p = 0.001). Improvement in IVS wall motion score index (IVS-WMSI) was the only independent predictor of TAPSE changes during follow up (r = -0.12, p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS In low risk patients after AMI, RV function recovered throughout six months of follow up and was already significant at discharge. TAPSE was significantly related to LVEF at 24-48 hours. The magnitude of RV functional recovery was higher in patients with lower initial LVEF. RV functional recovery is best related to IVS-WMSI improvement, suggesting that IVS motion has an important role in RV functional improvement in this setting.
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87
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Di Paolo N, Sacchi G, Gentile F, Lombardi M, Sansoni E, Gaggiotti E. Experimental Evaluation of Transport Force in the Rabbit Ureter. Int J Artif Organs 2005; 28:190-6. [PMID: 15818540 DOI: 10.1177/039139880502800302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Cleaning the urinary tract by so-called “wash-out effect” and promoting high diuresis has long been advocated but has had very little scientific backing and few prospective studies in international journals. Aim To verify whether the physical laws describing the transport force of water in rivers and pipes are also valid for urinary outflow. Methods A laboratory model for measuring transport force, given liquid and solid capacity, was adapted to create an in vivo model based on the rabbit urinary tract. Results Fluid flow in the rabbit renal pelvis and ureters was found similar to flow in pipes, obeying the physical laws of water transport to some extent. When the quantity of liquid flowing in the urinary tract in unit time was doubled, the transport force increased by various orders of magnitude. When the liquid increased by a larger factor, the transport force became enormous. Conclusions The results confirm the utility of maintaining high diuresis in patients with renal calculus, but stress the utility of drinking 1–2 liters of hypotonic water in a short time to obtain an enormous increase in transport force which increases the probability of a cleansing effect.
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Vitiello C, D'Adamo P, Gentile F, Vingolo EM, Gasparini P, Banfi S. A novel GJA1 mutation causes oculodentodigital dysplasia without syndactyly. Am J Med Genet A 2005; 133A:58-60. [PMID: 15637728 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.30554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD) is a rare autosomal dominant pleiotropic disorder, caused by mutations in the Connexin 43 gene (GJA1) [Paznekas et al. (2003): Am J Hum Genet 72:408-418], which is localized to human chromosome 6q22-q23. Here, we describe the identification of a novel heterozygous missense mutation in the GJA1 gene, (H194P) in an Italian family previously reported to be affected by isolated autosomal dominant microphthalmia [Vingolo et al. (1994): J Med Genet 31:721-725]. Careful clinical re-evaluation revealed that this family shows an atypical form of ODDD, characterized by the predominance of the ocular involvement and by the absence of hand and/or foot syndactyly. The mutation affects an amino acid residue localized in the second extracellular domain of the Cx43 protein and highly conserved across evolution. This finding confirms the highly variable phenotypic expression caused by GJA1 mutations.
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Gentile F, Conte M, Formisano S. Thyroglobulin as an autoantigen: what can we learn about immunopathogenicity from the correlation of antigenic properties with protein structure? Immunology 2004; 112:13-25. [PMID: 15096179 PMCID: PMC1782462 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2567.2004.01861.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoantibodies against human thyroglobulin are a hallmark of autoimmune thyroid disease in humans, and are often found in normal subjects. Their pathogenic significance is debated. Several B-cell epitope-bearing peptides have been identified in thyroglobulin. They are generally located away from the cysteine-rich regions of tandem sequence repetition. It is possible that our current epitopic map is incomplete because of the difficulty that proteolytic and recombinant approaches have in restituting conformational epitopes based upon proper pairing between numerous cysteinyl residues. Furthermore, the homology of cysteine-rich repeats with a motif occurring in several proteins, endowed with antiprotease activity, suggests that these regions may normally escape processing and presentation to the immune system, and brings attention to the mechanisms, such as oxidative cleavage, by which such cryptic epitopes may be exposed. A number of T-cell epitope-bearing peptides, endowed with thyroiditogenic power in susceptible mice, were also identified. None of them was dominant, as none was able to prime in vivo lymph node cells that would proliferate or transfer autoimmune thyroiditis to syngeneic hosts, upon stimulation with intact thyroglobulin in vitro. More than half of them are located within the acetylcholinesterase-homologous domain of thyroglobulin, and overlap B-cell epitopes associated with autoimmune thyroid disease, while the others are located within cysteine-rich repeats. The immunopathogenic, non-dominant character of these epitopes also favours the view that the development of autoimmune thyroid disease may involve the unmasking of cryptic epitopes, whose exposure may cause the breaking of peripheral tolerance to thyroglobulin. Further research in this direction seems warranted.
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Steffenino G, Margarial E, Gallamini A, Nigro C, Feola M, Biggil A, Meinardi F, Uslenghil E, Gentile F. Recovery of regional contractile and metabolic function after autologous bone marrow stem cell implantation: a randomised study. Int J Cardiol 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-5273(04)90021-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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91
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Bagattini M, Crispino M, Gentile F, Barretta E, Schiavone D, Boccia MC, Triassi M, Zarrilli R. A nosocomial outbreak of Serratia marcescens producing inducible Amp C-type beta-lactamase enzyme and carrying antimicrobial resistance genes within a class 1 integron. J Hosp Infect 2004; 56:29-36. [PMID: 14706268 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2003.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We investigated an outbreak of Serratia marcescens in the adult intensive care unit of the University Hospital of Napoli. The outbreak involved 13 cases of infection by S. marcescens over a nine-month period and was caused by a single pulsed-field gel electrophoresis clone. The epidemic strain was multiply antibiotic resistant, producing an inducible Amp C-type beta-lactamase enzyme and carrying the trimethoprim-resistance gene and the adenyltransferase gene, which confers resistance to streptomycin and spectinomycin, within a class 1 integron. Antimicrobial therapy with beta-lactams was associated with S. marcescens acquisition in the intensive care unit.
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92
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Bismuto E, Nucci R, Febbraio F, Tanfani F, Gentile F, Briante R, Scirè A, Bertoli E, Amodeo P. Effects induced by mono- and divalent cations on protein regions responsible for thermal adaptation in �-glycosidase from Sulfolobus solfataricus. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2004; 33:38-49. [PMID: 14564415 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-003-0350-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2003] [Accepted: 08/18/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The perturbation induced by mono- and divalent cations on the thermophilicity and thermostability of Solfolobus solfataricus beta-glycosidase, a hyperthermophilic tetrameric enzyme, has been investigated by spectroscopic and computational simulation methods to ascertain the Hofmeister effects on two strategic protein regions identified previously. Specifically, (1). an extra segment (83-124), present only in the sequence of hyperthermophilic glycosidases and recognized as an important thermostability determinant for the enzyme structure; and (2). a restricted area of the subunit interface responsible for the quaternary structure maintenance. Mono- and divalent cations inhibit to a different extent the beta-glycosidase activity, whose kinetic constants show an apparent competitive inhibition of the catalytic process that reflects the Hofmeister order. The thermostability is also affected by the nature and charge of the cations, reaching maximal effects for the case of Mg(2+). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has revealed very small changes in the protein secondary structure in the presence of the investigated cations at 20 degrees C, while large effects on the protein melting temperatures are observed. Computational analysis of the enzyme structure has identified negative patches on the accessible surface of the two identified regions. Following the Hofmeister series, cations weaken the existing electrostatic network that links the extra segment to the remaining protein matrix. In particular, the perturbing action of cations could involve the ionic pair interactions E107-R245 and E109-R185, thus leading to a local destructuring of the extra segment as a possible starting event for thermal destabilization. A detailed investigation of the electrostatic network at the A-C intermolecular interface of Sbetagly after energy minimization suggests that cations could cause a strong attenuation of the ion pair interactions E474-K72 and D473-R402, with consequent partial dissociation of the tetrameric structure.
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93
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Febbraio F, Andolfo A, Tanfani F, Briante R, Gentile F, Formisano S, Vaccaro C, Scirè A, Bertoli E, Pucci P, Nucci R. Thermal stability and aggregation of sulfolobus solfataricus beta-glycosidase are dependent upon the N-epsilon-methylation of specific lysyl residues: critical role of in vivo post-translational modifications. J Biol Chem 2003; 279:10185-94. [PMID: 14660666 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m308520200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylation in vivo is a post-translational modification observed in several organisms belonging to eucarya, bacteria, and archaea. Although important implications of this modification have been demonstrated in several eucaryotes, its biological role in hyperthermophilic archaea is far from being understood. The aim of this work is to clarify some effects of methylation on the properties of beta-glycosidase from Sulfolobus solfataricus, by a structural comparison between the native, methylated protein and its unmethylated counterpart, recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli. Analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated similar secondary structure contents for the two forms of the protein. However, the study of temperature perturbation by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and turbidimetry evidenced denaturation and aggregation events more pronounced in recombinant than in native beta-glycosidase. Red Nile fluorescence analysis revealed significant differences of surface hydrophobicity between the two forms of the protein. Unlike the native enzyme, which dissociated into SDS-resistant dimers upon exposure to the detergent, the recombinant enzyme partially dissociated into monomers. By electrospray mapping, the methylation sites of the native protein were identified. A computational analysis of beta-glycosidase three-dimensional structure and comparisons with other proteins from S. solfataricus revealed analogies in the localization of methylation sites in terms of secondary structural elements and overall topology. These observations suggest a role for the methylation of lysyl residues, located in selected domains, in the thermal stabilization of beta-glycosidase from S. solfataricus.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acids/chemistry
- Coloring Agents/pharmacology
- Detergents/pharmacology
- Dimerization
- Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel
- Escherichia coli/metabolism
- Glucosidases/chemistry
- Hydrogen Bonding
- Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
- Hydrolysis
- Lysine/chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
- Methylation
- Models, Chemical
- Models, Molecular
- Oxazines/pharmacology
- Protein Binding
- Protein Conformation
- Protein Denaturation
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational
- Protein Structure, Secondary
- Recombinant Proteins/chemistry
- Software
- Spectrometry, Fluorescence
- Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization
- Spectrophotometry, Infrared
- Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared
- Sulfolobus/enzymology
- Temperature
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94
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Gardine CA, Gentile F, Pellegrini C, Giallauria F, Torelli G, Kouki T, DeGroot L. Multiple fragments of human TG are capable of inducing oral tolerance to whole human TG. J Endocrinol Invest 2003; 26:294-300. [PMID: 12841535 DOI: 10.1007/bf03345175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Oral tolerance is the mechanism by which the immune system remains unresponsive to orally administered soluble antigens. Mice immunized with human TG (hTG), resulting in the induction of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT), provide an ideal in vivo system in which to examine oral tolerance to hTG. In the present study, we characterize epitopes of hTG that are capable of inducing oral tolerance. hTG is a large homodimeric protein, 660 Kd. The limited proteolysis of hTG using trypsin (TR) generates several smaller fragments of hTG ranging in size from 29 Kd to 145 Kd. Using hTG fragments h1TR (residues 1-521), h4bisTR (residues 2513-2713), h6TR (residues 522-1626), and h7TR (residues 1627-2512), prepared from both iodine rich and iodine poor hTG, we investigated the ability of these fragments to induce oral tolerance. The oral administration of iodine rich h6TR or h7TR suppresses hTG specific immune responses in a manner similar to whole hTG. In contrast, the oral administration of iodine rich h1TR or h4bisTR exacerbates hTG specific immune responses. Unlike iodine rich h1TR or h4bisTR, the oral administration of iodine poor h1TR or h4bisTR fails to augment hTG specific immune responses. In fact, h4bisTR suppresses hTG specific immune responses. These results indicate that hTG contains multiple epitopes that differentially affect oral tolerization. Tolerogenic epitopes reside within fragments h6TR and h7TR. The removal of iodine, and presumably hormone, from h4bisTR converts an immunogenic epitope to a tolerogenic epitope.
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95
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Gentile F, Amodeo P, Febbraio F, Picaro F, Motta A, Formisano S, Nucci R. SDS-resistant active and thermostable dimers are obtained from the dissociation of homotetrameric beta-glycosidase from hyperthermophilic Sulfolobus solfataricus in SDS. Stabilizing role of the A-C intermonomeric interface. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:44050-60. [PMID: 12213823 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m206761200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
beta-Glycosidases are fundamental, widely conserved enzymes. Those from hyperthermophiles exhibit unusual stabilities toward various perturbants. Previous work with homotetrameric beta-glycosidase from hyperthermophilic Sulfolobus solfataricus (M(r) 226,760) has shown that addition of 0.05-0.1% SDS was associated with minimal secondary structure perturbations and increased activity. This work addresses the effects of SDS on beta-glycosidase quaternary structure. In 0.1-1% SDS, the enzyme was dimeric, as determined by Ferguson analysis of transverse-gradient polyacrylamide gels. The catalytic activity of the beta-glycosidase dimer in SDS was determined by in-gel assay. A minor decrease of thermal stability in SDS was observed after exposure to temperatures up to 80 degrees C for 1 h. An analysis of beta-glycosidase crystal structure showed different changes in solvent-accessible surface area on going from the tetramer to the two possible dimers (A-C and A-D). Energy minimization and molecular dynamics calculations showed that the A-C dimer, exhibiting the lowest exposed surface area, was more stabilized by a network of polar interactions. The charge distribution around the A-C interface was characterized by a local short range anisotropy, resulting in an unfavorable interaction with SDS. This paper provides a detailed description of an SDS-resistant inter-monomeric interface, which may help understand similar interfaces involved in important biological processes.
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96
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Ascione L, Antonini-Canterin F, Macor F, Cervesato E, Chiarella F, Giannuzzi P, Temporelli PL, Gentile F, Lucci D, Maggioni AP, Tavazzi L, Badano L, Stoian I, Piazza R, Bosimini E, Pavan D, Nicolosi GL. Relation between early mitral regurgitation and left ventricular thrombus formation after acute myocardial infarction: results of the GISSI-3 echo substudy. Heart 2002; 88:131-6. [PMID: 12117831 PMCID: PMC1767209 DOI: 10.1136/heart.88.2.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence and correlates of left ventricular thrombosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction, and whether the occurrence of early mitral regurgitation has a protective effect against the formation of left ventricular thrombus. DESIGN AND SETTING Multicentre clinical trial carried out in 47 Italian coronary care units. PATIENTS AND METHODS 757 patients from the GISSI-3 echo substudy population with their first acute myocardial infarct were studied by echocardiography at 24-48 hours from symptom onset (S1), at discharge (S2), at six weeks (S3), and at six months (S4). The diagnosis of left ventricular thrombosis was based on the detection of an echo dense mass with defined margins visible throughout the cardiac cycle in at least two orthogonal views. RESULTS In 64 patients (8%), left ventricular thrombosis was detected in one or more examinations. Compared with the remaining 693 patients, subjects with left ventricular thrombosis were older (mean (SD) age: 64.6 (13.0) v 59.8 (11.7) years, p < 0.005), and had larger infarcts (extent of wall motion asynergy: 40.9 (11.5)% v 24.9 (14)%, p < 0.001), greater depression of left ventricular ejection fraction at S1 (43.3 (6.9)% v 48.1 (6.8)%, p < 0.001), and greater left ventricular volumes at S1 (end diastolic volume: 87 (22) v 78 (18) ml/m(2), p < 0.001; end systolic volume: 50 (17) v 41 (14) ml/m(2), p < 0.001). The prevalence of moderate to severe mitral regurgitation on colour Doppler at S1 was greater in patients who had left ventricular thrombosis at any time (10.2% v 4.2%, p < 0.05). On stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis the only independent variables related to the presence of left ventricular thrombosis were the extent of wall motion asynergy and anterior site of infarction. CONCLUSIONS Left ventricular thrombosis is not reduced, and may even be increased, by early moderate to severe mitral regurgitation after acute myocardial infarction. The only independent determinant of left ventricular thrombosis is the extent of the akinetic-dyskinetic area detected on echocardiography between 24-48 hours from symptom onset.
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97
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Bonazzi M, Gentile F, Biasi GM, Migliavacca S, Esposti D, Cipolla M, Marsicano M, Prampolini F, Ornaghi M, Sternjakob S, Tshomba Y. Impact of perioperative haemodynamic monitoring on cardiac morbidity after major vascular surgery in low risk patients. A randomised pilot trial. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2002; 23:445-51. [PMID: 12027474 DOI: 10.1053/ejvs.2002.1617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to evaluate whether perioperative haemodynamic optimisation influences outcome from infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. METHODS a consecutive series of 100 eligible patients were randomised to either haemodynamic optimisation through the use of a pulmonary artery catheter (CI > 3.0 l/min/sqm, PWP > 10 and <18 mmHg, SVR <1450 dyne/sec/cm(-5), DO(2)> 600 ml/min/sqm) or conventional treatment. RESULTS there were no differences in terms of in-hospital mortality, cardiovascular morbidity, postoperative renal failure or duration of hospital stay between the groups. CONCLUSIONS in this study perioperative haemodynamic optimisation was not beneficial.
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98
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Elhendy A, Gentile F, Khandheria BK, Gersh BJ, Bailey KR, Montgomery SC, Seward JB, Tajik AJ. Thromboembolic complications after electrical cardioversion in patients with atrial flutter. Am J Med 2001; 111:433-8. [PMID: 11690567 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9343(01)00902-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the incidence of thromboembolic complications after cardioversion in patients with atrial flutter. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We reviewed 615 electrical cardioversions performed electively in 493 patients with atrial flutter. Embolic complications were evaluated during the 30 days after cardioversion. Follow-up data were obtained by follow-up visits and by contacting the treating physician. RESULTS Anticoagulants had been administered in 415 cardioversions (67%). Cardioversion was successful in 570 procedures (93%). Three embolic events (in 3 patients) occurred in the 30 days after 550 successful cardioversions with completed follow-up (0.6% of successful procedures; 95% confidence interval, 0.1% to 1.6%). Two of the 3 patients had not been anticoagulated, whereas the third patient had subtherapeutic oral anticoagulation. No embolic event occurred in procedures performed with adequate anticoagulation. The incidence of embolism in patients regardless of subtherapeutic anticoagulation was 1% (3 of 303 successful cardioversions). CONCLUSIONS We observed a low (0.6%) incidence of postcardioversion thromboembolic complications in patients with atrial flutter. Embolic events did not occur in patients with adequate anticoagulation.
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99
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Agmon Y, Khandheria BK, Meissner I, Gentile F, Sicks JD, O'Fallon WM, Whisnant JP, Wiebers DO, Seward JB. Comparison of frequency of patent foramen ovale by transesophageal echocardiography in patients with cerebral ischemic events versus in subjects in the general population. Am J Cardiol 2001; 88:330-2. [PMID: 11472723 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9149(01)01656-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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100
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Corrado G, Sgalambro A, Mantero A, Gentile F, Gasparini M, Bufalino R, Morabito A, Trocino G, Schiavina R, Mandorla S, Mangia R, Tovena D, Savino K, Jacopi F, Pellegrino EM, Agostini F, Centonze G, Bovenzi F, Caprino E, Tadeo G, Santarone M. Thromboembolic risk in atrial flutter. The FLASIEC (FLutter Atriale Società Italiana di Ecografia Cardiovascolare) multicentre study. Eur Heart J 2001; 22:1042-51. [PMID: 11428839 DOI: 10.1053/euhj.2000.2427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Patients with atrial flutter are believed to be at lower risk of thromboembolism than patients with atrial fibrillation. However, the incidence of atrial thrombi and the need for anticoagulation in patients with atrial flutter is not well established. METHODS AND RESULTS A prospective observational multicentre study was undertaken to assess the frequency of atrial thrombi and spontaneous echocontrast and the prevalence for aortic complex atherosclerotic lesions in a cohort of unselected patients with atrial flutter. We evaluated 134 patients (102 male, aged 70+/-9 years); exclusion criteria were history of atrial fibrillation, rheumatic mitral valve disease and mitral mechanical prosthesis. The median of atrial flutter duration was 33 days. Twelve patients had been taking warfarin for more than 7 days. One hundred and twenty-four patients (94%) underwent a transoesophageal echocardiogram, which revealed left atrial appendage thrombi in two patients (1.6%) and right atrial thrombi in one patient (1%). At least moderate left atrial echocontrast was found in 16/124 patients (13%). Complex atherosclerotic aortic plaques were detected in 10 patients (8%). Atrial flutter conversion was attempted in 93/134 patients (69%). At the 1-month follow-up, two patients experienced a thromboembolic event following restoration of sinus rhythm. CONCLUSIONS Atrial thrombi and echocontrast, and complex aortic atherosclerotic plaques are relatively uncommon in patients with atrial flutter. Post-cardioversion embolism was observed in two patients in our study population.
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