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Misailidi M, Tzatzarakis M, Stivaktakis P, Koutedakis Y, Tsatsakis A, Flouris A. Development of questionnaires for the assessment of environmental tobacco smoke exposure in children and adults: Validity against hair nicotine. Toxicol Lett 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2011.05.471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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302
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Nestoros I, Alegakis A, Vakonaki E, Christakis-Hampsas M, Tsatsakis A. Short term memory impairment and Schizophrenia-like symptoms are associated with cannabinoids in head hairs in chronic heavy cannabis users. Toxicol Lett 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2011.05.1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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303
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Vardavas CI, Flouris AD, Tsatsakis A, Kafatos AG, Saris WHM. Does adherence to the Mediterranean diet have a protective effect against active and passive smoking? Public Health 2011; 125:121-8. [PMID: 21276993 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2010.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2009] [Revised: 06/21/2010] [Accepted: 11/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the existing evidence about whether adherence to the Mediterranean diet may have a role as an effect modifier of active and passive smoking on human health. STUDY DESIGN Review. METHODS An overview of emerging evidence and published studies that cover the interaction between the Mediterranean diet and smoking. RESULTS Both epidemiological and laboratory studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet has a protective effect against biochemical and molecular processes that lead to cancer, cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness. Based on the high daily intake of vitamins and antioxidants, the Mediterranean diet is comprised of a number of compounds that could alter certain outcomes related to smoking. Studies have indicated that certain diseases attributable to smoking, such as lung cancer, asthma and cardiovascular disease, are inversely associated with certain antioxidants and lipids. CONCLUSIONS The literature indicates that the existence of a partial interaction between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and the health effects of smoking is possible. Further research is needed to lead to a conclusive statement on this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Vardavas
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Greece.
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304
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Tsakirakis A, Kasiotis KM, Arapaki N, Charistou A, Tsatsakis A, Glass CR, Machera K. Determination of operator exposure levels to insecticide during bait applications in olive trees: study of coverall performance and duration of application. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2010; 214:71-8. [PMID: 20843742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2010.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2010] [Revised: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 08/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In this study the operator exposure levels during bait applications of an insecticide in olive groves were determined using a whole body dosimetry method for dermal exposure. The study design allowed the roles of application task duration and coverall type to be evaluated as factors influencing operator exposure. Twenty applications were carried out with knapsack sprayers in the Tanagra region of Viotia, Greece, ten of which were for a 1h and ten for a 3h duration. An in-house GC-NPD analytical method was developed and validated for the determination of malathion, the active substance (a.s.) of the insecticide formulation used in field trials. The mean recovery of field-fortified samples was 84% (%RSD=3.0). Field trial results generally indicated lower operator exposure levels than indicated by the most relevant operator exposure predictive model. Residues of malathion on internal dosimeters were compared to those measured on the respective outer coveralls (potential dermal exposure) to evaluate the protective factor of each one of the two coverall types used. Both coverall types provided satisfactory levels of protection and can be considered as suitable protection for the conditions of the application scenario studied. Furthermore, the results indicated that there is not a strong correlation between exposure levels and duration of application.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tsakirakis
- Laboratory of Pesticides Toxicology, Department of Pesticides Control and Phytopharmacy, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 7 Ekalis St., 145 61 Kifissia, Greece
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305
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Berdiaki A, Datsis GA, Nikitovic D, Tsatsakis A, Katonis P, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) peptides through the regulation of hyaluronan metabolism affect osteosarcoma cell migration. IUBMB Life 2010; 62:377-86. [PMID: 20222016 DOI: 10.1002/iub.320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) strongly stimulates hyaluronan (HA) synthesis and secretion of both normal and carcinogenic cells of the osteoblastic lineage and improves skeletal microarchitecture. HA, a glycosaminoglycan component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), is capable of transmitting ECM-derived signals to regulate cellular function. In this study, we investigated whether the changes of HA metabolism induced by PTH (1-34) and PTH (7-84) peptides in moderately MG-63 and well-differentiated Saos 2 osteosarcoma cell lines, are correlated to their migration capabilities. Our results demonstrate that intermittent PTH (1-34) treatment significantly (P < or = 0.01) supported the migration of MG-63 cells, increased their HA-synthase-2 (HAS2) expression (P < or = 0.001), and enhanced their high-molecular size HA deposition in the pericellular matrix. Both increased endogenous HA production (P < or = 0.01) and treatment with exogenous high-molecular weight HA (P < or = 0.05) correlated to a significant increase of MG-63 cell migration capacity. Transfection with siHAS2 showed that PTH (1-34), mainly through HAS2, enhanced HA and regulated MG-63 cell motility. Interestingly, continuous PTH (1-34) treatment stimulated both Saos 2 cell HAS2 (P < or = 0.001) and HAS1 (P < or = 0.001) isoform expression inhibited their HYAL2 expression (P < or = 0.001) and modestly (P < or = 0.05) enhanced their migration. Therefore, the PTH (1-34) administration mode appears to distinctly modulate the migratory responses of the MG-63 moderately and Saos 2 well-differentiated osteosarcoma cell lines. Conclusively, the obtained data suggest that there is a regulatory effect of PTH (1-34), in an administration mode-dependent manner, on HA metabolism that is essential for osteosarcoma cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Berdiaki
- Department of Histology, Division of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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306
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Tsakiris I, Favas C, Tsatsakis A, Kokkinakis M, Mparbounis M, Kokkinaki A. Pesticide residue assessment of Organically Cultivated Greek Virgin Olive Oil, during 2009. Toxicol Lett 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2010.03.1062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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307
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Fragkiadakis G, Toutoudaki M, Tsatsakis A. Anti-obesity drugs: The role of dieticians in monitoring side effects and toxicity. Toxicol Lett 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2010.03.361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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308
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Flouris A, Metsios G, Carrillo A, Jamurtas A, Terzi I, Tzatzarakis M, Tsatsakis A, Koutedakis Y. Effects of passive smoking on active and resting humans 0, 1, and 3h following exposure. Toxicol Lett 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2010.03.321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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309
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Saroglou M, Tryfon S, Ismailos G, Liapakis I, Tzatzarakis M, Tsatsakis A, Papalois A, Bouros D. Pharmacokinetics of Linezolid and Ertapenem in experimental parapneumonic pleural effusion. J Inflamm (Lond) 2010; 7:22. [PMID: 20482752 PMCID: PMC2890630 DOI: 10.1186/1476-9255-7-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective To determine the extent of linezolid and ertapenem penetration into the empyemic fluid using a rabbit model of empyema. Methods An empyema was created via the intrapleural injection of Escherichia coli bacteria (ATCC 35218) into the pleural space of New Zealand white rabbits. After an empyema was verified by thoracocentesis, 24 hours post inoculation, linezolid (10 mg/kg) and ertapenem (60 mg/kg) were administered intravenously into 10 and 8 infected empyemic rabbits, respectively. Antibiotic levels were determined in samples of pleural fluid and blood serum, collected serially at 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours, after administration each of the two antibiotics. Results Linezolid as well as ertapenem penetrate well into the empyemic pleural fluid, exhibiting a slower onset and decline compared to the corresponding blood serum levels. Equilibration between blood serum and pleural fluid compartments seems to occur at 1.5 hours for both linezolid and ertapenem, with peak pleural fluid levels (Cmaxpf of 2.02 ± 0.73 «mu»g/ml and Cmaxpf of 3.74 ± 1.39 «mu»g/ml, correspondingly) occurring 2 hours post antibiotics administration and decreasing very slowly thereafter. The serum concentrations for both antibiotics were significantly lower from the corresponding pleural fluid ones during the 8 hours collecting data, with the exception of samples collected at the 1st hour (Cmaxserum of 2.1 ± 1.2 «mu»g/ml for linezolid and Cmaxserum of 6.26 ± 2.98 «mu»g/ml for ertapenem). Conclusion Pleural fluid levels of both antibiotics are inhibitory for common specified pathogens causing empyema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Saroglou
- Department of Pneumonology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
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310
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Papadantonakis P, Neofotistou O, Vasiliadi A, Skoutelis A, Tsatsakis A, Tosca A, Krüger-Krasagakis S. Porphyria cutanea tarda and beta-thalassaemia major: causal or casual? J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2010; 24:1242-3. [PMID: 20236192 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2010.03626.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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311
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Tzatzarakis M, Koutroulakis D, Sifakis S, Kavalakis M, Tutudaki M, Mantas N, Koukoura O, Kokkinakis M, Mataliotakis I, Tsatsakis A. Monitoring of the non-specific metabolites of organophosphate pesticide in amniotic fluid of pregnant women in the region of Crete. Toxicol Lett 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.06.763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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312
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Toutoudaki M, Germanakis I, Briassoulis G, Tzatzarakis M, Christakis-Hampsas M, Tsatsakis A. The impact of drug monitoring in a case of drug resistant neonate arrhythmia. Toxicol Lett 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.06.389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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313
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Tzatzarakis M, Tutudaki M, Dawson A, Fahim A, Kokkinakis M, Maravgakis G, Tsatsakis A. Detection of non specific organophosphate pesticide metabolites in human hair samples. Toxicol Lett 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.06.779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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314
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Abstract
Lumican belongs to the family of small leucine-rich repeat proteoglycans. Recent studies have shown that lumican participates in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis and modulates cellular functions including cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. The expression of lumican has been correlated to the growth and metastasis of various malignancies; however, its exact role in tumorogenesis remains elusive. This review focuses upon the role of lumican in cell biology, providing insights into molecular mechanisms that lumican likely utilizes to control processes relevant to tumorogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Nikitovic
- Lab of Histology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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315
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Tsatsakis A, Toutoudaki M, Tzatzarakis M. Assessing Chronic Exposure to Anticholinesterase Pesticides by Hair Analysis. Counteraction to Chemical and Biological Terrorism in East European Countries 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/978-90-481-2342-1_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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316
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Krasagakis K, Kruger-Krasagakis S, Eberle J, Tsatsakis A, Tosca AD, Stathopoulos EN. Co-expression of KIT receptor and its ligand stem cell factor in Merkel cell carcinoma. Dermatology 2008; 218:37-43. [PMID: 19001805 DOI: 10.1159/000173704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2008] [Accepted: 09/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS KIT receptor has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer, either by mutation or autocrine activation. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare KIT-positive cutaneous tumor. We investigated the co-expression of KIT and its ligand stem cell factor (SCF) in MCC. METHODS Sixteen specimens from 13 MCC patients of various tumor stages were examined by immunohistochemistry for SCF, KIT, Ki67/MIB-1 and cleaved caspase 3 expression, and for apoptosis by TUNEL. RESULTS KIT was expressed in 13 of 16 tumors, and SCF in 15 of 16 specimens. Co-expression of KIT and SCF was detected in 12 of 16 tumors. KIT and SCF immunoreactivity scores were independent of tumor stage. Ki67/MIB-1 proliferation rates were high, whereas apoptosis rates were low, and did not depend on KIT or SCF expression. CONCLUSION Co-expression of KIT and SCF in a high percentage of MCC tumors hints to an autocrine mechanism. KIT and SCF expression in primary tumors and in metastases suggests an early event in Merkel cell transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Krasagakis
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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317
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Tzatzarakis M, Koutroulakis D, Sifakis S, Theodoropoulou E, Kabalakis M, Koukoura O, Sigelaki A, Toutoudaki M, Tsatsakis A. Concentration of dialkylphosphate metabolites of organophosphate pesticides in pregnant women's urine in the island of Crete. Toxicol Lett 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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318
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Kokkinakis E, Kokkinaki A, Tutudaki M, Tzatzarakis E, Tsatsakis A. Pesticide sampling methodology in order to sustain agricultural food quality-control, according to Eurepgap protocols. Toxicol Lett 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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319
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Hatzidaki E, Toutoudaki M, Christaki M, Manoura A, Korakaki E, Saitakis E, Tzatzarakis M, Tsatsakis A, Giannakopoulou C. A non-fatal suicide attempt of a pregnant woman using mirtazapine and venlafaxine. Toxicol Lett 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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320
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Tsatsakis A. Assessing chronic exposure for drugs of abuse. Toxicol Lett 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2008.06.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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321
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Zafiropoulos A, Nikitovic D, Katonis P, Tsatsakis A, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Decorin-Induced Growth Inhibition Is Overcome through Protracted Expression and Activation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors in Osteosarcoma Cells. Mol Cancer Res 2008; 6:785-94. [DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-07-0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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322
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Fthenou E, Zafiropoulos A, Katonis P, Tsatsakis A, Karamanos N, Tzanakakis G. Chondroitin sulfate prevents platelet derived growth factor-mediated phosphorylation of PDGF-Rβ in normal human fibroblasts severely impairing mitogenic responses. J Cell Biochem 2008; 103:1866-76. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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323
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Chatzinikolaou G, Nikitovic D, Asimakopoulou A, Tsatsakis A, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Heparin—A unique stimulator of human colon cancer cells' growth. IUBMB Life 2008; 60:333-40. [DOI: 10.1002/iub.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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324
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Nikitovic D, Berdiaki A, Zafiropoulos A, Katonis P, Tsatsakis A, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Lumican expression is positively correlated with the differentiation and negatively with the growth of human osteosarcoma cells. FEBS J 2007; 275:350-61. [PMID: 18093185 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2007.06205.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumour associated with childhood and adolescence. The possible role of the small leucine-rich proteoglycan, lumican, in the growth and metastasis of various cancer types has recently been investigated. In this study, the expression of lumican was examined in moderately differentiated (MG-63) and well-differentiated (Saos 2) human osteosarcoma cell lines of high and low metastatic capability, respectively. Real-time PCR, western blotting with antibodies against the protein core and keratan sulfate, and specific enzymatic digestions were the methods employed. The two human osteosarcoma cell lines were found to express and secrete lumican partly substituted with keratan sulfate glycosaminoglycans. Importantly, the non-metastatic, well-differentiated Saos 2 cells produced lumican at rates that were up to sevenfold higher than those of highly metastatic MG-63 cells. The utilization of short interfering RNA specific for the lumican gene resulted in efficient down-regulation of its mRNA levels in both cell lines. The growth of Saos 2 cells was inhibited by lumican, whereas their migration and chemotactic response to fibronectin were found to be promoted. Lumican expression was negatively correlated with the basal level of Smad 2 activation in these cells, suggesting that lumican may affect the bioavailability of Smad 2 activators. By contrast, these cellular functions of highly aggressive MG-63 cells were demonstrated not to be sensitive to a decrease in their low endogenous lumican levels. These results suggest that lumican expression may be positively correlated with the differentiation and negatively correlated with the progression of osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Nikitovic
- Department of Histology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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325
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Berdiaki A, Zafiropoulos A, Fthenou E, Katonis P, Tsatsakis A, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Regulation of hyaluronan and versican deposition by growth factors in fibrosarcoma cell lines. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2007; 1780:194-202. [PMID: 17980161 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2007.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2007] [Revised: 09/14/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Versican, a large chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan and hyaluronan (HA), a non-sulphated glycosaminoglycan are major constituents of the pericellular matrix. In many neoplastic tissues, changes in the expression of versican and HA affect tumour progression. Here, we analyse the synthesis of versican and hyaluronan by fibrosarcoma cells, and document how the latter is affected by PDGF-BB, bFGF and TGFB2, growth factors endogenously produced by these cells. Fibrosarcoma cell lines B6FS and HT1080 were utilised and compared with normal lung fibroblasts (DLF). The major versican isoforms expressed by DLF and B6FS cells were V0 and V1. Treatment of B6FS cells with TGFB2 showed a significant increase of V0 and V1 mRNAs. Versican expression in HT1080 cells was not significantly affected by any of the growth factors. In addition, TGFB2 treatment increased versican protein in DLF cells. HA, showed approximately a 2-fold and a 9-fold higher production in DLF cells compared to B6FS and HT1080 cells, respectively. In HT1080 cells, HA biosynthesis was significantly increased by bFGF, whereas, in B6FS cells it was increased by TGFB2 and PDGF-BB. Furthermore, analysis of HA synthases (HAS) expression indicated that HT1080 expressed similar levels of all three HAS isoforms in the following order: HAS2> HAS3> HAS1. bFGF shifted that balance by increasing the abundance of HAS1. The major HAS isoform expressed by B6FS cells was HAS2. PDGF-BB and TGFB2 showed the most prominent effects by increasing both HAS2 and HAS1 isoforms. In conclusion, these growth factors modulated, through upregulation of specific HAS isoforms, HA synthesis, secretion and net deposition to the pericellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Berdiaki
- Department of Histology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
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326
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Toutoudaki M, Tzatzarakis M, Zaphiropoulos A, Tsatsakis A. Assessment of exposure to pesticides of a population in Messara using hair analysis and study of the correlations between the detected pesticide concentrations and of PON1 and CYP1A1 polymorphisms. Toxicol Lett 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2007.05.292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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327
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Vlata Z, Porichis F, Tzanakakis G, Tsatsakis A, Krambovitis E. A study of zearalenone cytotoxicity on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Toxicol Lett 2006; 165:274-81. [PMID: 16797886 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2006.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2006] [Revised: 05/05/2006] [Accepted: 05/08/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) is a common contaminant of all major cereal grains worldwide with estrogenic and anabolic activity. We investigated the in vitro cytopathic effects of ZEA on freshly isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in relation to proliferation and cell death patterns of untreated and mitogen-activated cells. The higher concentration of 30microg/ml ZEA was found to totally inhibit T and B lymphocyte proliferation from the stimulation with phytohemagglutinin and pokeweed mitogen. The inhibitory effects of ZEA were further related to cell necrosis/apoptosis. Flow cytometry analysis showed a distinct necrotic effect on PBMC, irrespective of mitogen stimulation, whereas apoptotic activity was less evident. Necrosis was observed in both the lymphocyte and monocyte/granulocyte gates. Measurements of ZEA-induced intracellular calcium ion (Ca(2+)) mobilization showed an increase of both Ca(2+) levels and the number of cells with high Ca(2+) only in the monocyte/granulocyte gated cells. Using phenylmethyl sulfonyl fluoride (PMSF), a serine protease inhibitor, and ammonium chloride (NH(4)Cl), a lysosomal inhibitor, both associated with cell necrosis inhibition, we showed that PMSF at 0.05mM and NH(4)Cl at 1 and 10mM reduced the cytopathic effects induced by 30microg/ml ZEA, whereas apoptosis was less affected. Expose of PBMC to 1microg/ml ZEA did not alter the viability of the cells. Our results suggest that high ZEA concentrations in the blood may well exert cytotoxic effects that merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaxarenia Vlata
- Department of Applied Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Vassilika Vouton, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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328
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Toutoudaki M, Tzatzarakis M, Christakis M, Margariti M, Xirouchakis S, Georgiakakis P, Barboutis C, Tsatsakis A. Detection of organophosphorous pesticides in poisoned birds of prey. Toxicol Lett 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2006.07.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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329
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Nikitovic D, Zafiropoulos A, Katonis P, Tsatsakis A, Theocharis AD, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Transforming growth factor-beta as a key molecule triggering the expression of versican isoforms v0 and v1, hyaluronan synthase-2 and synthesis of hyaluronan in malignant osteosarcoma cells. IUBMB Life 2006; 58:47-53. [PMID: 16540432 DOI: 10.1080/15216540500531713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Versican, a large sized chondroitin-sulphate proteoglycan (PG), and its binding partner, hyaluronan (HA), are extracellular matrix (ECM) components that play an essential role in transformed cell behavior. Expression of certain versican isoforms has been implicated in cell migration and proliferation of cancer cells and, on the other hand, disruption of HA synthesis by inhibiting hyaluronan synthase-2 (HAS2) expression in osteosarcoma cells by suppressing cell proliferation, invasiveness and motility. Considering that growth factors, such as TGF-beta, bFGF and PDGF-BB, are important regulators for the expression of the ECM macromolecules, in this study we examined the effect of these growth factors on the expression of the various versican isoforms, HA synthases as well as HA synthesis by MG-63 osteosarcoma cells and normal human osteoblastic periodontal ligament cells (hPDL). Real-time PCR and metabolic labelling followed by fine HPLC analysis coupled to radiochemical detection were the methods utilized. It was found that, contrary to normal hPDL cells, osteosarcoma MG-63 cells do not constitutively express the versican isoforms V0 and V1. Exogenous addition of TGF-beta2 stimulated the versican transcript levels mainly by forcing osteosarcoma cells to express V1 and V0 isoforms. PDGF-BB and bFGF had only minor effects in these cells. In hPDL cells a strong stimulation of the V3 transcript by all growth factors was observed. TGF-beta2 was also the major stimulator of HAS2 isoform expression as well as hyaluronan synthesis in osteosarcoma cells, while PDGF-BB exerted dominant influence on HAS2 isoform expression and hyaluronan biosynthesis by osteoblasts. The obtained results show for the first time that TGF-beta2 triggers the malignant phenotype pattern of versican and hyaluronan expression in human osteosarcoma cells and indicate that this growth factor may account for the metastatic potential of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Nikitovic
- Department of Histology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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330
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Fthenou E, Zafiropoulos A, Tsatsakis A, Stathopoulos A, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. Chondroitin sulfate A chains enhance platelet derived growth factor-mediated signalling in fibrosarcoma cells. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2006; 38:2141-50. [PMID: 16945567 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2006.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2006] [Revised: 06/07/2006] [Accepted: 06/09/2006] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Platelet derived growth factor is involved in the autocrine growth stimulation of malignant cells, the stimulation of angiogenesis and the recruitment and regulation of tumor fibroblasts. PDGF has been shown to physically interact with glycosaminoglycans which are abundant in the fibrosarcoma cell microenvironment. Aim of the present study was to examine the effects of glycosaminoglycans on the mitogenic function of platelet derived growth factor in two human fibrosarcoma cell lines (B6FS, HT1080). For this purpose exogenously added glycosaminoglycans, regulators of endogenous glycosaminoglycan synthesis (sodium chlorate as selective inhibitor and beta-D-xyloside as a stimulator) and specific glycosidases to cleave cell-associated glycosaminoglycans, were utilized. Platelet derived growth factor demonstrated a growth stimulating effect on B6FS, whereas no effect was evident on HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells. Beta-D-xyloside had no effect on the basal level or the platelet derived growth factor-induced cell proliferation, whereas sodium chlorate severely reduced the basal level of proliferation in both cell lines. Significant co-stimulatory effects of chondroitin sulfate A in combination with platelet derived growth factor BB on the growth of HT1080 and B6FS cells were found. The co-stimulatory effect of chondroitin sulfate A was not due to transcriptional up regulation of platelet derived growth factor receptors genes, but rather to more efficient signalling of tyrosine kinase receptors. In conclusion, this study shows that chondroitin sulfate A can enhance the mitogenic activity of platelet-derived growth factor in fibrosarcoma cells utilizing a pathway which involves tyrosine kinases. This result introduces a new modulating role for chondroitin sulfate in signalling pathways critical for cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Fthenou
- Department of Histology, Division of Morphology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
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331
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Vlata Z, Porichis F, Tzanakakis G, Tsatsakis A, Krambovitis E. In vitro cytopathic effects of mycotoxin T-2 on human peripheral blood T lymphocytes. Toxicol Lett 2005; 160:60-8. [PMID: 16023801 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2005.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2005] [Revised: 06/08/2005] [Accepted: 06/08/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The trichothecene mycotoxin T-2 is reported to exhibit immunotoxic activity. The potential presence of T-2 in foods renders it as public health hazard and its toxicity needs to be better understood. We investigated the in vitro effects of T-2 at sub-toxic (0.1 ng/ml) and toxic (10 ng/ml) levels on freshly isolated human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). We observed no direct influence on untreated PBLs. The toxic dose of T-2, however, totally inhibited phytohemagglutinin-induced T lymphocyte proliferation and caused early apoptosis that peaked after 8h of exposure. Both major T lymphocyte subsets (CD4+ and CD8+) were affected as they appeared to show a positive response to T-2 at 8h followed by their sharp reduction after 96 h. Further investigation on the naïve (CD45RA+) and memory (CD45RO+) subpopulations confirmed these observations and indicated that T-2 affected equally all the subpopulations studied, although PHA preferentially stimulated CD45RO+ T lymphocytes. Sub-toxic T-2 appeared to exhibit co stimulatory properties to PHA-stimulated cells. These results support the hypothesis that T-2 affects the activation-induced cell death mechanism of T lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaharenia Vlata
- Department of Applied Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Vassilika Vouton, 711 10 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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332
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Sifakis S, Angelakis E, Makrigiannakis A, Orfanoudaki I, Christakis-Hampsas M, Katonis P, Tsatsakis A, Koumantakis E. Chemoprophylactic and bactericidal efficacy of 80 mg gentamicin in a single and once-daily dosing. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2004; 272:201-6. [PMID: 15605270 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-004-0698-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2004] [Accepted: 09/21/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to examine the biodistribution, the chemoprophylactic, and the bactericide efficacy of 80-mg gentamicin single or once-daily dosing. STUDY DESIGN Ninety-six patients who had had cesarean section or gynecological surgery received 80 mg gentamicin for chemoprophylaxis. A second group of 92 patients with Gram-negative infection received once-daily 80-mg gentamicin intramuscularly, combined with cefoxitin or ceforanide, for 5 days. Gentamicin serum and tissue concentration was determined 1 h after the first administration. RESULTS The chemoprophylactic efficacy of gentamicin was 93.7%. The treatment efficacy was high in patients with chorioamnionitis and endometritis (92.9%), moderate in those with wound infection (69.5%), and less effective in those with septicemia (55.6%). Twenty-six percent of patients continued with antibiotics for infection control. The mean serum level was 4.48+/-0.49 and 5.56+/-0.66 microg/ml in obstetrical and gynecological patients respectively (p>0.05). Serum levels >4 microg/ml were achieved in 91% of patients. CONCLUSIONS A single dose of 80 mg gentamicin offers chemoprophylaxis and achieves therapeutic serum-concentrations 1 h after administration. The 5-day combination of once-daily 80 mg gentamicin with a second-generation cephalosporin is effective in patients with chorioamnionitis and endometritis, but only moderately effective in those with wound infections and septicemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros Sifakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Crete, 228 Oulaf Palme Street, 71410 Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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333
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Abstract
The present paper reviews the work that has been done in the field of pesticide and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) hair analysis during the last 15 years. It summarizes the compounds of interest, the methods of analyte extraction from the hair matrix, the analytical techniques employed and the results obtained. The most widely studied POPs are the polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), the dibenzofurans (PCDFs) the co-planar biphenyls (co-PCBs) and total biphenyls (PCBs). The most widely studied pesticides are the organochlorine ones, like the hexachlorocyclohexanes and the DDTs, which nowadays are only found as environmental pollutants, some organophosphates, selected pyrethroids and the carbamate methomyl. The most widely applied technique was gas chromatography (GC) coupled to mass spectrometry (MS). Other detectors like the ECD in the case of organochlorine analysis and the NPD in the case of organophosphate analysis were also used. The presented data concern human and animal studies. The levels of DDTs detected in hair were between 19 and 400 ng/g, of co-PCBs 0.27 and 0.45 ng/g, of total PCBs 5-13 ng/g of PCDDs and PCDFs 0.1-10 pg/g of lindane 20-400 ng/g of HCHs 14-40 ng/g of diazinon 110-520 ng/g and of methomyl 900-1800 ng/g. These results strongly support the possibility of using hair as a suitable indicator for the assessment of long-term exposure to POPs and pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Department of Medicine, Centre of Toxicological Sciences and Research, School of Health Sciences, University of Crete, Voutes Heraklion, 71409 Crete, Greece.
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334
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Abstract
The practice of forensic medicine in Greece is similar to that in other European countries. That is Greece follows the continental model of sudden death investigations, whose norms govern the exercise of forensic medicine through Greek criminal procedure law. In Greece, a university and Government system of forensic medicine exist and occasionally work side-by-side. University departments are strategically placed in all districts of the country. State forensic medicine services are located in Athens, Piraeus and Crete and function in parallel with the local University departments of forensic medicine. Forensic examinations on the living are also exclusively performed by the University and State Legal Medicine services. The cases are simply divided according to the countries of these areas. A recent regulation by the Supreme Court eliminated the overlapping of jurisdictions emphasizing the role of the University departments, and finally establishing a new University-oriented medico-legal system throughout Greece.
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335
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Dialyna I, Tzanakakis G, Dolapsakis G, Tsatsakis A. A tetranucleotide repeat polymorphism in the CYP19 gene and breast cancer susceptibility in a Greek population exposed and not exposed to pesticides. Toxicol Lett 2004; 151:267-71. [PMID: 15177662 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2004.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2004] [Revised: 01/20/2004] [Accepted: 01/23/2004] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have suggested that hormones, genetic factors, and environmental agents are significant risk factors in breast carcinogenesis. Some pesticides have the ability to act as xenoestrogens in vivo. The CYP19 gene encodes the aromatase enzyme which is involved in the estrogens biosynthetic pathways. We have assessed the frequency alleles of a (TTTA)(n) repeat of CYP19 gene in breast cancer patients which were either exposed or not exposed to specific pesticides. No differences were observed in the distribution of the alleles between the two groups showing that the polymorphism does not have a significant functional role on the aromatase activity. When compared to healthy control Greek women group, only the (TTTA)(10) repeat variant presented a non-significant increased risk in breast cancer susceptibility [odds ratio (OR): 2.46, P>0.05 ]. Lack of strong association suggests that the polymorphic TTTA short tandem repeat of CYP19 gene may have not a functional effect on the enzyme's activity and thus its role in the development of breast cancer remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Dialyna
- Center of Toxicology Sciences and Research, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion Voutes, Crete GR-71409, Greece
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336
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Baritaki S, Tzanakakis GN, Alifragis J, Zafiropoulos A, Tashmukhamedov RI, Tsatsakis A, Shtilman MI, Rizos AK, Krambovitis E. Light scattering and in vitro biocompatibility studies of poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) derivatives with amino-acid-dependent groups. J Biomed Mater Res 2003; 63:830-7. [PMID: 12418031 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.10409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Two poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) families with amino-acid residues (glycine, beta-alanine, gamma-aminobutiric acid and epsilon-aminocaproic acid) on the base of the co-polymer N-vinyl pyrrolidone and allyl-glycidyl ether (VP-AGE) and on the base of epoxidized PVP (EPVP) were synthesized. Static and dynamic light scattering measurements of these PVP derivatives in water showed that their structure/ behavior were similar to that of PVP. The bioreactivity was also similar to that of PVP. Further investigation of the immunoreactive properties of the derivatives in in vitro proliferation assays with fresh normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes and monocytes led to the determination of a costimulatory profile for each derivative in terms of polyclonal stimulation, specific antigen presentation, and immunoglobulin secretion. This profile allows the selection of an appropriate derivative as a carrier that would suit the immunoreactivity needs of the immobilized ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavroula Baritaki
- Department of Applied Biochemistry & Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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337
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Mitropoulou TN, Tzanakakis GN, Nikitovic D, Tsatsakis A, Karamanos NK. In vitro effects of genistein on the synthesis and distribution of glycosaminoglycans/proteoglycans by estrogen receptor-positive and -negative human breast cancer epithelial cells. Anticancer Res 2002; 22:2841-6. [PMID: 12530007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Genistein, a soy isoflavone, affects the proliferation of both estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and ER-negative cancer cells. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)/proteoglycans (PGs) are considered to be of great importance in the treatment of cancer. The synthesis of GAGs by two human breast cancer epithelial cell lines, the ER-positive MCF-7 and the ER-negative BT-20, was studied under the effects of genistein, and their distribution in the culture medium and the cell membranes was determined. The results obtained show that both cell lines synthesize extracellular hyaluronic acid (HA) and both extracellular and cell-associated galactosaminoglycans (GalAGs) and heparan sulphate (HS). The MCF-7 cell line synthesizes HA, GalAGs and HS at considerably lower rates than the BT-20 cell line. The effect of genistein on the synthesis of extracellularly secreted GAGs/PGs by ER-positive MCF-7 cells is dose-dependent and follows two mechanisms; one at low concentrations (< or = 35 microM) mediated via the estrogen receptor and the other at higher concentrations via protein tyrosine kinase (PTK). The synthesis of cell-associated GAGs/PGs by ER-positive MCF-7 cells and of both secreted and associated with the cell membrane GAGs/PGs by ER-negative BT-20 cells is mediated by a PTK mechanism. It is concluded that genistein affects the synthesis of GAGs/PGs, by breast cancer epithelial cells depending on the presence or absence of estrogen receptor and the localisation of PGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoni N Mitropoulou
- Department of Chemistry, Section of Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and Natural Products, Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Patras, 265 00 Patras, Greece
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338
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Charvalos E, Tzatzarakis M, Tsatsakis A, Petrikkos G. Controlled release of water-soluble polymeric complexes of sorbic acid with antifungal activities. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2001; 57:770-5. [PMID: 11778892 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-001-0853-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We synthesized six water-soluble polymeric complexes of sorbic acid with polyvinylpyrrolidone of different molecular weight (mol wt). As shown by infrared absorption spectrum analysis, the complexes were formed by hydrogen bonding. The complexes (SC1, with mol wt=10 kDa, SC2 with mol wt=25 kDa, SC3 with mol wt=30 kDa, SC4 with mol wt=40 kDa, SC5 with mol wt=90 kDa, and SC6 with mol wt=360 kDa) were characterized as low mol wt (SC1, SC2, and SC3) and high mol wt (SC4, SC5, and SC6). The antifungal potencies of the complexes were tested by the macrodilution susceptibility method against environmental and clinically important fungi. Sorbic acid as well as the complexes exhibited minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) lower than potassium sorbate against all the strains tested. MICs of SC1, SC2, and SC3 were shown to be 2- to 4-fold lower for yeast and 1.5- to 3-fold lower than those of sorbic acid for moulds, respectively. The MICs of SC4 and SC5 against both of the Candida species tested ranged from 500 to 800 microg/ml, whereas for SC6 and sorbic acid they were about 1 mg/ml. The potencies of the high mol wt complexes against moulds were decreased by increasing the mol wt. For both of the moulds tested, the MICs of SC4 were slightly lower than those of sorbate. The MICs of sorbic acid and SC5 were equal to 300 microg/ml and 500 microg/ml respectively for Aspergillus parasiticus and for Penicillum viridicatum. The susceptibility to SC6 of all of the hyphomycetes tested was higher than that to sorbic acid. The low mol wt complexes and the sorbic acid exhibited minimal fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) 2 and 3 times higher respectively than the MICs. Sorbic acid and SC3 at a concentration of 2.5 mg/ml in an in vitro time kill curve study of Candida tropicalis were shown to be fungistatic, whereas SC1 and SC2 were fungicidal at the same concentrations. For Aspergillus parasiticus sorbic acid at 2.5 mg/ml was fungistatic for a 24-h period, whereas SC1, SC2, and SC3 were fungicidal.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Charvalos
- School of Health and Caring Professions, Technological Educational Institution of Athens, Greece.
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339
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Relakis K, Sifakis S, Froudarakis G, Papadopoulou E, Michalodimitrakis EN, Koumantakis E, Tsatsakis A. Disposition of pesticides and toxicants in the human reproductive system in cases of acute poisoning. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 2000; 26:207-10. [PMID: 10668158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate the penetration of some of the pesticides and toxicant substances in the human reproductive system. This knowledge is valuable because of the possible adverse influence of these substances on the human reproduction system and the development of the foetus during pregnancy. The existing data is mainly concerned with the results of experimental studies on animals or epidemiological studies. Here we report data concerning the disposition of several toxic xenobiotics (pesticides and solvents) in the tissues of the human reproductive system as well as in other organs and glands. Data was collected from cases of acute poisonings and derived mostly from autopsy materials. Xenobiotics were found to penetrate sampled tissues such as the testes, ovaries, epididymis, uterus, thyroid gland, as well as other human tissues. Further studies will clarify and confirm peculiarities of the penetration of a wide range of substances in various body tissues and will be the base of the estimation of the role of these toxicants in human reproductive ability and the outcome of pregnancy in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Relakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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340
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Kokori H, Giannakopoulou CH, Hatzidaki E, Athanaselis S, Tsatsakis A, Sbyrakis S. An unusual case of lead poisoning in an infant: nursing-associated plumbism. J Lab Clin Med 1999; 134:522-5. [PMID: 10560946 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2143(99)90174-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Lead poisoning remains a common environmental threat for children today. The majority of cases of lead poisoning are caused by oral intake of lead dust or lead-containing paint flakes and thus occur during the second and third years of life. An unusual case of severe lead poisoning in a breast-feeding infant girl is here presented; the source proved to be a nipple shield made of a lead-containing metal. Despite the severity of the intoxication, by the end of treatment and for a year afterwards the infant has been well and her psychokinetic development has been normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Kokori
- Department of General Pediatrics, University of Crete, Iraklion, Greece
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341
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Petrakis I, Gonianakis C, Vrachassotakis N, Tsatsakis A, Vallilakis IS, Chalkiadakis G. Prospective study of preincisional intraparietal single-dose ceftriaxone in reducing postoperative wound infection in type I and II diabetic patients. Acta Diabetol 1999; 36:159-62. [PMID: 10664321 DOI: 10.1007/s005920050160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The risk of wound contamination in diabetic patients after abdominal operations is well known. Preincisional intraparietal injection of antibiotics is used for the prophylaxis of postoperative surgical infections. Whether topically injected antibiotics remain primarily in the surgical wound or are systematically absorbed is uncertain, however. The pharmacokinetics of a preincisional, intraparietal injection of 2 g ceftriaxone was studied in 50 consecutive diabetic (type I and II) patients undergoing abdominal surgery, with determination of serum, wound tissue, and wound fluid antibiotic concentrations. Preincisional intraparietal injection of ceftriaxone resulted in high antibiotic concentrations in the wound fluid. The highest plasma concentrations were achieved at 1.5 h (98.45 microg/ml, SD = 14.54). Plasma concentrations exceeded the minimal inhibitory concentrations of most aerobic gram positive and gram negative organisms with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter species, and Streptococcus faecalis for 24 h (10.35 microg/ml, SD = 4.10). No long-lasting or general complications arose in any of the diabetic patients. Our results suggest that preincisional intraparietal administration of ceftriaxone for prophylaxis of wound sepsis in diabetic patients with high risk of infection is effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Petrakis
- Department of General Surgery, University Hospital of Herakleion, University of Crete, 114 Akadimias Avenue, GR-71305 Herakleion, Crete, Greece
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342
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Affiliation(s)
- H Kokori
- Department of General Paediatrics, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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343
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Petrakis I, Vrachassotakis N, Tsatsakis A, Chalkiadakis G. Prospective study of preincisional single-dose ceftriaxone in reducing postoperative wound infection in high risk of infection patients. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 1998; 2:141-5. [PMID: 10546410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The risk of wound contamination in high risk of infection patients after abdominal operations is well recognised. Preincisional intraparietal injection of antibiotics is used for the prophylaxis of postoperative surgical infections. Whether topically injected antibiotics remain primarily in the surgical wound or are systematically absorbed is uncertain, however. PATIENTS AND METHODS The pharmacokinetic of preincisional injection of 2 g Ceftriaxone were studied in 50 high risk of infection patients (diabetic, oncologic, immunocompromised and obese) who have undergone abdominal surgery, with determination of serum, wound tissue, and wound fluid antibiotic concentrations. RESULTS Preincisional injection of Ceftriaxone resulted in high antibiotic concentrations in the wound fluid. The highest plasma concentrations were achieved at 1 1/2 hours (98.30 SD 14.10 micrograms/ml). Plasma concentrations exceeded the minimal inhibitory concentrations of most aerobic gram positive and gram negative organisms with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinobacter species, and Streptococcus faecalis for 24 hours (10.10 SD 4.00 micrograms/ml). No longer of general complications were arose in any of the patients. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that preincisional administration of ceftriaxone for prophylaxis of the wound sepsis in high risk of infection patients is very effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Petrakis
- Department of General Surgery, University Hospital of Herakleion, University of Crete, Greece
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344
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Abstract
An unusual accidental death due to acute massive occlusion of the right pulmonary arteries by liver tissue is reported. A 17-year-old motorcyclist was run over by a heavy truck, resulting in multiple injuries. Multiple lacerations of the liver and tears in the wall of the inferior vena cava resulted in the complete occlusion of the right pulmonary artery by liver tissue. Although the victim sustained other potentially lethal injuries, the final mechanism of death is attributed to pulmonary embolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Michalodimitrakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Voutes, Greece
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345
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Koumantakis E, Makrigiannakis A, Matalliotakis I, Neonaki M, Tsatsakis A. Penetration of pesticides in the human reproductive system. Presentation of case reports. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 1997; 24:86-7. [PMID: 9342470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E Koumantakis
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University General Hospital, Crete, Greece
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346
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Chalkiadakis GE, Gonnianakis C, Tsatsakis A, Tsakalof A, Michalodimitrakis M. Preincisional single-dose ceftriaxone for the prophylaxis of surgical wound infection. Am J Surg 1995; 170:353-5. [PMID: 7573727 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9610(99)80302-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preincisional intraparietal injection of antibiotics is used for the prophylaxis of postoperative surgical infections. Whether topically injected antibiotics remain primarily in the surgical wound or are systematically absorbed is uncertain, however. PATIENTS AND METHODS The pharmacokinetics of preincisional injection of 2 g ceftriaxone were studied in 20 patients who have undergone abdominal surgery, with determination of serum, wound tissue, and wound fluid antibiotic concentrations. RESULTS Preincisional injection of ceftriaxone resulted in high antibiotic concentrations in the wound tissue and wound fluid. The highest plasma concentrations were achieved at 1.50 hours (99.47 +/- 14.67 micrograms/mL). Plasma concentrations exceeded the minimal inhibitory concentrations of most aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative organisms with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter species, and Streptococcus faecalis for 24 hours (10.42 +/- 4.12). No local or general complications arose in any of the patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that preincisional administration of ceftriaxone for prophylaxis is very effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Chalkiadakis
- Department of Surgery, University of Crete School of Medicine, Greece
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Bouros D, Agouridakis P, Tsatsakis A, Askitopoulou E, Siafakas NM. Orthodeoxia and platypnoea after acute organophosphorus poisoning reversed by CPAP: a newly described cause and review of the literature. Respir Med 1995; 89:625-8. [PMID: 7494917 DOI: 10.1016/0954-6111(95)90232-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The case of a 60-year-old male patient, who survived severe organophosphorus poisoning, and subsequently developed platypnoea and orthodeoxia is described. The patient was mechanically ventilated for a long period of time in the intensive care unit. During the weaning trial, he developed platypnoea and orthodeoxia (PaO2 85 mmHg in recumbency, and 40 mmHg in upright position). Interestingly, the patient's orthodeoxia was alleviated on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. This is a newly described cause of the platypnoea-orthodeoxia syndrome. The possible pathophysiological mechanisms are discussed and a review of the reported abnormal states associated with this condition is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Bouros
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Medical School University of Crete, Greece
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