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Giallongo S, Ferrigno J, Caltabiano R, Broggi G, Alanazi AM, Distefano A, Tropea E, Tramutola A, Perluigi M, Volti GL, Barone E, Barbagallo IA. Aging exacerbates oxidative stress and liver fibrosis in an animal model of Down Syndrome. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:10203-10215. [PMID: 38942607 PMCID: PMC11236314 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Down Syndrome (DS) is a common genetic disorder characterized by an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to dysregulation of various metabolic pathways. Oxidative stress in DS is associated with neurodevelopmental defects, neuronal dysfunction, and a dementia onset resembling Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, chronic oxidative stress contributes to cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers prevalent in DS individuals. This study investigates the impact of ageing on oxidative stress and liver fibrosis using a DS murine model (Ts2Cje mice). Our results show that DS mice show increased liver oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defenses, as evidenced by reduced glutathione levels and increased lipid peroxidation. Therefore, DS liver exhibits an altered inflammatory response and mitochondrial fitness as we showed by assaying the expression of HMOX1, CLPP, and the heat shock proteins Hsp90 and Hsp60. DS liver also displays dysregulated lipid metabolism, indicated by altered expression of PPARα, PPARγ, FATP5, and CTP2. Consistently, these changes might contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease development, a condition characterized by liver fat accumulation. Consistently, histological analysis of DS liver reveals increased fibrosis and steatosis, as showed by Col1a1 increased expression, indicative of potential progression to liver cirrhosis. Therefore, our findings suggest an increased risk of liver pathologies in DS individuals, particularly when combined with the higher prevalence of obesity and metabolic dysfunctions in DS patients. These results shed a light on the liver's role in DS-associated pathologies and suggest potential therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress and lipid metabolism to prevent or mitigate liver-related complications in DS individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiano Giallongo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Jessica Ferrigno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department G.F. Ingrassia, Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Broggi
- Department G.F. Ingrassia, Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Amer M Alanazi
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alfio Distefano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Emanuela Tropea
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, RM 00185, Italy
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, RM 00185, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department G.F. Ingrassia, Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, Catania 95124, Italy
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Moriya K, Saeki K, Nishimura N, Sato S, Sawada Y, Takaya H, Kaji K, Kawaratani H, Namisaki T, Akahane T, Yoshiji H. Zinc Supplementation and an Improved Quality of Life in Patients with Autoimmune Hepatitis. Intern Med 2024; 63:145-152. [PMID: 37197963 PMCID: PMC10864085 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1817-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objecive Patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) reportedly have an impaired quality of life (QOL), mainly due to depression, even during remission. In addition, hypozincaemia has been demonstrated in patients with chronic liver disease, including AIH, and is known to be related to depression. Corticosteroids are known to cause mental instability. We therefore investigated the longitudinal association between zinc supplementation and changes in the mental status among AIH patients treated with corticosteroids. Materials This study enrolled 26 patients with serological remission of AIH routinely treated at our facility after excluding 15 patients who either discontinued polaprezinc (150 mg/day) within 24 months or interrupted treatment. Two questionnaires, the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ) and SF-36, were adopted to evaluate the QOL before and after zinc supplementation. Results Serum zinc levels were significantly elevated after zinc supplementation (p<0.0001). The CLDQ worry subscale significantly improved after zinc supplementation (p=0.017), but none of the SF-36 subscales was affected. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that daily prednisolone dosing was inversely related to both the CLDQ worry domain score (p=0.036) and the SF-36 mental health component (p=0.031). There was a significant negative correlation between the changes in the daily steroid dose and the CLDQ worry domain scores before and after zinc supplementation (p=0.006). No serious adverse events occurred during the observation period. Conclusion Zinc supplementation safely and efficiently improved mental impairment, possibly caused by continuous treatment with corticosteroids, in patients with AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Moriya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Keigo Saeki
- Department of Epidemiology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Shinya Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Sawada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Takaya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kaji
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Hideto Kawaratani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Takemi Akahane
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
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Meng C, Liu Y, Ming Y, Lu C, Li Y, Zhang Y, Su D, Gao X, Yuan Q. Enhancing Liver Delivery of Gold Nanoclusters via Human Serum Albumin Encapsulation for Autoimmune Hepatitis Alleviation. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:110. [PMID: 38258120 PMCID: PMC10818704 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Peptide-protected gold nanoclusters (AuNCs), possessing exceptional biocompatibility and remarkable physicochemical properties, have demonstrated intrinsic pharmaceutical activity in immunomodulation, making them a highly attractive frontier in the field of nanomedicine exploration. Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a serious autoimmune liver disease caused by the disruption of immune balance, for which effective treatment options are still lacking. In this study, we initially identified glutathione (GSH)-protected AuNCs as a promising nanodrug candidate for AIH alleviating in a Concanavalin A (Con A)-induced mice model. However, to enhance treatment efficiency, liver-targeted delivery needs to be improved. Therefore, human serum albumin (HSA)-encapsulated AuNCs were constructed to achieve enhanced liver targeting and more potent mitigation of Con A-induced elevations in plasma aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and liver injury in mice. In vivo and in vitro mechanism studies indicated that AuNCs could suppress the secretion of IFN-γ by Con A-stimulated T cells and subsequently inhibit the activation of the JAK2/STAT1 pathway and eventual hepatocyte apoptosis induced by IFN-γ. These actions ultimately protect the liver from immune cell infiltration and damage caused by Con A. These findings suggest that bio-protected AuNCs hold promise as nanodrugs for AIH therapy, with their liver targeting capabilities and therapeutic efficiency being further improved via rational surface ligand engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Meng
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Yu Liu
- College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Qilu Institute of Technology, Jinan 250200, China;
| | - Yuping Ming
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Cao Lu
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Yanggege Li
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Yulu Zhang
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Dongdong Su
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Xueyun Gao
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
| | - Qing Yuan
- Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation, Department of Chemistry, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China; (C.M.); (Y.M.); (C.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (X.G.)
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Ates I, Yılmaz AD, Buttari B, Arese M, Saso L, Suzen S. A Review of the Potential of Nuclear Factor [Erythroid-Derived 2]-like 2 Activation in Autoimmune Diseases. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1532. [PMID: 38002492 PMCID: PMC10669303 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13111532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
An autoimmune disease is the consequence of the immune system attacking healthy cells, tissues, and organs by mistake instead of protecting them. Inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are well-recognized processes occurring in association with acute or chronic impairment of cell homeostasis. The transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor [erythroid-derived 2]-like 2) is of major importance as the defense instrument against OS and alters anti-inflammatory activities related to different pathological states. Researchers have described Nrf2 as a significant regulator of innate immunity. Growing indications suggest that the Nrf2 signaling pathway is deregulated in numerous diseases, including autoimmune disorders. The advantageous outcome of the pharmacological activation of Nrf2 is an essential part of Nrf2-based chemoprevention and intervention in other chronic illnesses, such as neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, and chronic kidney and liver disease. Nevertheless, a growing number of investigations have indicated that Nrf2 is already elevated in specific cancer and disease steps, suggesting that the pharmacological agents developed to mitigate the potentially destructive or transformative results associated with the protracted activation of Nrf2 should also be evaluated. The activators of Nrf2 have revealed an improvement in the progress of OS-associated diseases, resulting in immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory activities; by contrast, the depletion of Nrf2 worsens disease progression. These data strengthen the growing attention to the biological properties of Nrf2 and its possible healing power on diseases. The evidence supporting a correlation between Nrf2 signaling and the most common autoimmune diseases is reviewed here. We focus on the aspects related to the possible effect of Nrf2 activation in ameliorating pathologic conditions based on the role of this regulator of antioxidant genes in the control of inflammation and OS, which are processes related to the progression of autoimmune diseases. Finally, the possibility of Nrf2 activation as a new drug development strategy to target pathogenesis is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilker Ates
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Degol Str. No. 4, 06560 Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Didem Yılmaz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Degol Str. No. 4, 06560 Ankara, Turkey; (A.D.Y.); (S.S.)
| | - Brigitta Buttari
- Department of Cardiovascular and Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marzia Arese
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzae Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology ‘‘Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sibel Suzen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Degol Str. No. 4, 06560 Ankara, Turkey; (A.D.Y.); (S.S.)
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Fagone P, Piombino E, Mangano K, De Pasquale R, Nicoletti F, Caltabiano R. Evaluation of the Involvement of Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression in Discoid Lupus Erythematosus Lesions. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1352. [PMID: 37507892 PMCID: PMC10376595 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches that may be disfiguring and can cause permanent scarring. This study aimed to investigate the potential clinical and therapeutic applications of heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1) in the context of DLE. Immunohistochemical staining and bioinformatics analysis were performed on skin biopsy samples from DLE patients to examine the levels of HMOX1 and to correlate with markers of inflammation. Our study revealed a negative correlation between HMOX1 levels and the inflammatory status of DLE lesions, as well as an inverse correlation between HMOX1 levels and the infiltration of M1 macrophages and activated mastocytes. These findings suggest that HMOX1 plays a crucial role in the regulation of inflammation in DLE and could be a potential therapeutic target and biomarker for DLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Eliana Piombino
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rocco De Pasquale
- Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Tognarelli EI, Duarte LF, Farías MA, Cancino FA, Corrales N, Ibáñez FJ, Riedel CA, Bueno SM, Kalergis AM, González PA. Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression in Dendritic Cells Contributes to Protective Immunity against Herpes Simplex Virus Skin Infection. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1170. [PMID: 37371900 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) infections are highly prevalent in the human population and produce mild to life-threatening diseases. These viruses interfere with the function and viability of dendritic cells (DCs), which are professional antigen-presenting cells that initiate and regulate the host's antiviral immune responses. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an inducible host enzyme with reported antiviral activity against HSVs in epithelial cells and neurons. Here, we sought to assess whether HO-1 modulates the function and viability of DCs upon infection with HSV-1 or HSV-2. We found that the stimulation of HO-1 expression in HSV-inoculated DCs significantly recovered the viability of these cells and hampered viral egress. Furthermore, HSV-infected DCs stimulated to express HO-1 promoted the expression of anti-inflammatory molecules, such as PDL-1 and IL-10, and the activation of virus-specific CD4+ T cells with regulatory (Treg), Th17 and Treg/Th17 phenotypes. Moreover, HSV-infected DCs stimulated to express HO-1 and then transferred into mice, promoted the activation of virus-specific T cells and improved the outcome of HSV-1 skin infection. These findings suggest that stimulation of HO-1 expression in DCs limits the deleterious effects of HSVs over these cells and induces a favorable virus-specific immune response in the skin against HSV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo I Tognarelli
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Luisa F Duarte
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago 8370133, Chile
| | - Mónica A Farías
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Felipe A Cancino
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Nicolás Corrales
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Francisco J Ibáñez
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Claudia A Riedel
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago 8370133, Chile
| | - Susan M Bueno
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Alexis M Kalergis
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8320000, Chile
| | - Pablo A González
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
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Ghareghomi S, Moosavi-Movahedi F, Saso L, Habibi-Rezaei M, Khatibi A, Hong J, Moosavi-Movahedi AA. Modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 by Natural Compounds in Lung Cancer. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030735. [PMID: 36978983 PMCID: PMC10044870 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stresses (OSs) are considered a pivotal factor in creating various pathophysiological conditions. Cells have been able to move forward by modulating numerous signaling pathways to moderate the defects of these stresses during their evolution. The company of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) as a molecular sensing element of the oxidative and electrophilic stress and nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) as a master transcriptional regulator of the antioxidant response makes a master cytoprotective antioxidant pathway known as the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. This pathway is considered a dual-edged sword with beneficial features for both normal and cancer cells by regulating the gene expression of the array of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a critical enzyme in toxic heme removal, is one of the clear state indicators for the duality of this pathway. Therefore, Nrf2/HO-1 axis targeting is known as a novel strategy for cancer treatment. In this review, the molecular mechanism of action of natural antioxidants on lung cancer cells has been investigated by relying on the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayyeh Ghareghomi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran; (S.G.); (F.M.-M.)
| | - Faezeh Moosavi-Movahedi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran; (S.G.); (F.M.-M.)
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (M.H.-R.); (A.A.M.-M.); Tel.: +39-06-4991-2481 (L.S.); +98-21-6111-3214 (M.H.-R.); +98-21-6640-3957 (A.A.M.-M.); Fax: +39-06-4991-2481 (L.S.); +98-21-6697-1941 (M.H.-R.); +98-21-6640-4680(A.A.M.-M.)
| | - Mehran Habibi-Rezaei
- School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran
- Center of Excellence in NanoBiomedicine, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (M.H.-R.); (A.A.M.-M.); Tel.: +39-06-4991-2481 (L.S.); +98-21-6111-3214 (M.H.-R.); +98-21-6640-3957 (A.A.M.-M.); Fax: +39-06-4991-2481 (L.S.); +98-21-6697-1941 (M.H.-R.); +98-21-6640-4680(A.A.M.-M.)
| | - Ali Khatibi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran 1993893973, Iran;
| | - Jun Hong
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, China;
| | - Ali A. Moosavi-Movahedi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran; (S.G.); (F.M.-M.)
- UNESCO Chair on Interdisciplinary Research in Diabetes, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (M.H.-R.); (A.A.M.-M.); Tel.: +39-06-4991-2481 (L.S.); +98-21-6111-3214 (M.H.-R.); +98-21-6640-3957 (A.A.M.-M.); Fax: +39-06-4991-2481 (L.S.); +98-21-6697-1941 (M.H.-R.); +98-21-6640-4680(A.A.M.-M.)
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Athanassiadou V, Plavoukou S, Grapsa E, Detsika MG. The Role of Heme Oxygenase-1 as an Immunomodulator in Kidney Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11122454. [PMID: 36552662 PMCID: PMC9774641 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11122454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The protein heme oxygenase (HO)-1 has been implicated in the regulations of multiple immunological processes. It is well known that kidney injury is affected by immune mechanisms and that various kidney-disease forms may be a result of autoimmune disease. The current study describes in detail the role of HO-1 in kidney disease and provides the most recent observations of the effect of HO-1 on immune pathways and responses both in animal models of immune-mediated disease forms and in patient studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Athanassiadou
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion University Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Stella Plavoukou
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion University Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Eirini Grapsa
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion University Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria G. Detsika
- 1st Department of Critical Care Medicine & Pulmonary Services, GP Livanos and M Simou Laboratories, Evangelismos Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10675 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence:
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Carbon Monoxide-Releasing Molecule-3 Suppresses the Malignant Biological Behavior of Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Regulating Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9418332. [PMID: 36158873 PMCID: PMC9507709 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9418332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Carbon monoxide-releasing molecule-3 (CORM-3) is a water-soluble complex which has the ability to release carbon monoxide (CO). The study is aimed at investigating the epidemiological characters and effects of CORM-3 on tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) cells and the mechanisms involved. Firstly, CAL27 and SCC4 were treated with CORM-3 or iCORM-3. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of cells were separately evaluated by CCK-8, scratch assay, and transwell assay. We found that the optimal concentration of CORM-3 on the proliferation of CAL27 and SCC4 cells was 400 μM, and CORM-3 was significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of TSCC cells. Meanwhile, CORM-3 increased the protein expression of HO-1 detected by western blot. Short-hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) were constructed to manipulate the expression of HO-1 in CAL27 and SCC4 cells. Then, rescue assays were conducted to explore the reversion effect of shHO-1 on the CORM-3 function. Mechanistically, CORM-3 decreased the protein of Keap1 expression as well as increased Nrf2 expression. Upregulation of E-cadherin was observed, as well as the downregulation of N-cadherin expression significantly. The antitumor effect of CORM-3 was used to xenograft tumor in nude mice for further investigation in vivo, and the result showed that CORM-3 significantly suppressed tumor growth in xenograft nude mice. These data suggest that CORM-3 acts as a tumor suppressor by regulating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in TSCC, which provides a potential chemotherapeutic strategy for TSCC.
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Kwong AM, Luke PPW, Bhattacharjee RN. Carbon monoxide mechanism of protection against renal ischemia and reperfusion injury. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 202:115156. [PMID: 35777450 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Carbon monoxide is quickly moving past its historic label as a molecule once feared, to a therapeutic drug that modulates inflammation. The development of carbon monoxide releasing molecules and utilization of heme oxygenase-1 inducers have shown carbon monoxide to be a promising therapy in reducing renal ischemia and reperfusion injury and other inflammatory diseases. In this review, we will discuss the developments and application of carbon monoxide releasing molecules in renal ischemia and reperfusion injury, and transplantation. We will review the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of carbon monoxide in respect to mitigating apoptosis, suppressing dendritic cell maturation and signalling, inhibiting toll-like receptor activation, promoting anti-inflammatory responses, and the effects on renal vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Kwong
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrick P W Luke
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, London Health Sciences Centre, Canada; Matthew Mailing Centre for Translational Transplantation Studies, Canada.
| | - Rabindra N Bhattacharjee
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, London Health Sciences Centre, Canada; Matthew Mailing Centre for Translational Transplantation Studies, Canada.
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11
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Petralia MC, Mangano K, Quattropani MC, Lenzo V, Nicoletti F, Fagone P. Computational Analysis of Pathogenetic Pathways in Alzheimer’s Disease and Prediction of Potential Therapeutic Drugs. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12070827. [PMID: 35884634 PMCID: PMC9313152 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12070827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disease which affects more than 50 million patients and represents 60–80% of all cases of dementia. Mutations in the APP gene, mostly affecting the γ-secretase site of cleavage and presenilin mutations, have been identified in inherited forms of AD. Methods. In the present study, we performed a meta-analysis of the transcriptional signatures that characterize two familial AD mutations (APPV7171F and PSEN1M146V) in order to characterize the common altered biomolecular pathways affected by these mutations. Next, an anti-signature perturbation analysis was performed using the AD meta-signature and the drug meta-signatures obtained from the L1000 database, using cosine similarity as distance metrics. Results. Overall, the meta-analysis identified 1479 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 684 downregulated genes, and 795 upregulated genes. Additionally, we found 14 drugs with a significant anti-similarity to the AD signature, with the top five drugs being naftifine, moricizine, ketoconazole, perindopril, and fexofenadine. Conclusions. This study aimed to integrate the transcriptional profiles associated with common familial AD mutations in neurons in order to characterize the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in AD and to find more effective drugs for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Petralia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (K.M.); (P.F.)
| | | | - Vittorio Lenzo
- Department of Social and Educational Sciences of the Mediterranean Area, University for Foreigners “Dante Alighieri” of Reggio Calabria, 89125 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (K.M.); (P.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (K.M.); (P.F.)
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12
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Chen H, Song L, Xu X, Han Z, Peng F, Zhang Q, Liu C, Liang X. The effect of icariin on autoimmune premature ovarian insufficiency via modulation of Nrf2/HO-1/Sirt1 pathway in mice. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100638. [PMID: 35344846 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a common gynecological disease. Autoimmunity is a common cause of POI. Icariin (ICA) plays a therapeutic role in many autoimmune diseases. This study aims to investigate the effect of ICA on autoimmune POI mice and its effect on immune regulation. Sixty-three female BALB/c mice were randomized into three groups (control, POI, POI + ICA). POI and POI + ICA group were hypodermically injected with zona pellucida three peptides (pZP3) to induce autoimmune POI. Then the POI + ICA group was gavaged with ICA. A vaginal smear was to observe estrous cycles, hematoxylin-eosin staining was to count follicles. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent analysis determined serum FSH, LH, AMH, and anti-zona pellucida antibody (AZPAb) levels. In addition, flow cytometry detected the expression of Th1 cells and Treg cells, and Western blot was used to detect the expression of Nuclear factor E2 related factor 2(Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and Sirtuin-1 (Sirt1) proteins. pZP3 treatment decreased serum AMH levels and increased FSH, LH, and AZPAb levels. Additionally, decreases in the number of healthy follicles at all stages and an increase in the number of atretic follicles. Abnormal ovarian structure and an arrested estrous cycle were also noted. However, ICA rescued POI through up-regulating Nrf2, HO-1, and Sirt1 expressions and up-regulating Treg expressions. ICA treatment improved the structure of the injured ovarian and its function in autoimmune POI mice. The mechanism is achieved by increasing the expression of Nrf2/HO-1/Sirt1 pathway in the ovary and increasing Treg cells' expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Chen
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Linjiang Song
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaofang Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Leping Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Leping, China
| | - Zhongyu Han
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Peng
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinxiu Zhang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Chi Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan Renal Disease Clinical Research Center, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China; Chinese Academy of Sciences Sichuan Translational Medicine Research Hospital, Chengdu 610072, China.
| | - Xin Liang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reproductive & Women-Children Hospital, Chengdu, China.
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Zhang L, Chen D, Tu Y, Sang T, Pan T, Lin H, Cai C, Jin X, Wu F, Xu L, Chen Y. Vitexin attenuates autoimmune hepatitis in mouse induced by syngeneic liver cytosolic proteins via activation of AMPK/AKT/GSK-3β/Nrf2 pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 917:174720. [PMID: 34953801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic progressive liver disease that currently does not have a successful therapeutic option. Vitexin, a bioflavonoid isolated from various medicinal plants, possesses a variety of activities; however, whether vitexin protects against AIH remains unclear. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective effects and mechanism of action of vitexin in both an experimental autoimmune hepatitis (EAH) mouse model and in D-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide (D-GalN/LPS)-induced hepatocyte injury. Syngeneic liver antigen S100 was used to establish EAH. Vitexin treatment significantly decreased the infiltration of inflammatory and CD4+ T cells in the liver, reduced ALT and AST levels in the serum and attenuated hepatic injury due to oxidative stress. Moreover, vitexin mitigated the upregulation of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 and the downregulation of Bcl-2 in the livers of AIH mice. These regulations were accompanied by not only increased phosphorylation of AMPK, AKT and GSK-3β but also activation of Nrf2. Furthermore, vitexin inhibited apoptosis and the overexpression of inflammatory cytokines in D-GalN/LPS-treated AML12 cells. In addition, vitexin enhanced the phosphorylation of AMPK, AKT and GSK-3β. When AML12 cells were treated with an inhibitor of AMPK/AKT or specific siRNA targeting Nrf2, vitexin did not further induce the activation of Nrf2/HO-1. A molecular docking study confirmed that vitexin could interact with AMPK through hydrogen bonding interactions. In conclusion, vitexin ameliorated hepatic injury in EAH mice through activation of the AMPK/AKT/GSK-3β pathway and upregulation of the Nrf2 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Dazhi Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Peking University, BeiJing, 100032, China
| | - Yulu Tu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ningbo Hangzhou Bay Hospital, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tiantian Sang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Tongtong Pan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Hongwei Lin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Chao Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Xiaozhi Jin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Faling Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China
| | - Lanman Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yongping Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hepatology, Hepatology Institute of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325006, China.
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Anti-fibrotic activity of sitagliptin against concanavalin A-induced hepatic fibrosis. Role of Nrf2 activation/NF-κB inhibition. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 100:108088. [PMID: 34454288 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Sitagliptin is known for its anti-diabetic activity though it has other pleiotropic pharmacological actions. Its effect against concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatic fibrosis has not been investigated yet. Our target was to test whether sitagliptin can suppress the development of Con A-induced hepatic fibrosis and if so, what are the mechanisms involved? Con A (6 mg/kg) was injected once weekly to male Swiss albino mice for four weeks. Sitagliptin was daily administered concurrently with Con A. Results have shown the potent hepatoprotective activity of sitagliptin against Con A-induced hepatitis and fibrosis. That was evident through the amelioration of hepatotoxicity serum parameters (ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH) and the increase in the level of serum albumin in sitagliptin treated mice. Simultaneously, there was amendment of the Con A-induced hepatic lesions and repression of fibrosis in sitagliptin-treated animals. Hydroxyproline, collagen content and the immuno-expression of the fibrotic markers, TGF-β and α-SMA were depressed upon sitagliptin treatment. Sitagliptin suppressed Con A-induced oxidative stress and increased antioxidants. RT-PCR analysis showed enhancement of mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its target genes (GCLc, GCLm, NQO-1, HO-1) by sitagliptin. Furthermore, sitagliptin ameliorated the level and immuno-expression of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) alongside the immuno-expression of the inflammatory cytokine, TNF-α. Taken together, this study demonstrates the hepatoprotective activity of sitagliptin which may be in part related to enhancement of Nrf2 signaling pathway and inhibition of NF-κB which interact inflammatory response in liver. Sitagliptin might be a new candidate to suppress hepatitis-associated fibrosis.
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Carbon Monoxide Therapy Using Hybrid Carbon Monoxide-Releasing/Nrf2-Inducing Molecules through a Neuroprotective Lens. CHEMISTRY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/chemistry3030057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon monoxide (CO) has long been known for its toxicity. However, in recent decades, new applications for CO as a therapeutic compound have been proposed, and multiple forms of CO therapy have since been developed and studied. Previous research has found that CO has a role as a gasotransmitter and promotes anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it an avenue of interest for medicine. Such effects are possible because of the Nrf2/HO1 pathway, which has become a target for therapy development because its activation also leads to CO release. Currently, different forms of treatment involving CO include inhaled CO (iCO), carbon monoxide-releasing molecules (CORMs), and hybrid carbon monoxide-releasing molecules (HYCOs). In this article, we review the progression of CO studies to develop possible therapies, the possible mechanisms involved in the effects of CO, and the current forms of therapy using CO.
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Petralia MC, Ciurleo R, Bramanti A, Bramanti P, Saraceno A, Mangano K, Quattropani MC, Nicoletti F, Fagone P. Transcriptomic Data Analysis Reveals a Down-Expression of Galectin-8 in Schizophrenia Hippocampus. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11080973. [PMID: 34439592 PMCID: PMC8392448 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11080973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe psychiatric disorder with several clinical manifestations that include cognitive dysfunction, decline in motivation, and psychosis. Current standards of care treatment with antipsychotic agents are often ineffective in controlling the disease, as only one-third of SCZ patients respond to medications. The mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of SCZ remain elusive. It is believed that inflammatory processes may play a role as contributing factors to the etiology of SCZ. Galectins are a family of β-galactoside-binding lectins that contribute to the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses, and previous reports have shown their role in the maintenance of central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis and neuroinflammation. In the current study, we evaluated the expression levels of the galectin gene family in post-mortem samples of the hippocampus, associative striatum, and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from SCZ patients. We found a significant downregulation of LGALS8 (Galectin-8) in the hippocampus of SCZ patients as compared to otherwise healthy donors. Interestingly, the reduction of LGALS8 was disease-specific, as no modulation was observed in the hippocampus from bipolar nor major depressive disorder (MDD) patients. Prediction analysis identified TBL1XR1, BRF2, and TAF7 as potential transcription factors controlling LGALS8 expression. In addition, MIR3681HG and MIR4296 were negatively correlated with LGALS8 expression, suggesting a role for epigenetics in the regulation of LGALS8 levels. On the other hand, no differences in the methylation levels of LGALS8 were observed between SCZ and matched control hippocampus. Finally, ontology analysis of the genes negatively correlated with LGALS8 expression identified an enrichment of the NGF-stimulated transcription pathway and of the oligodendrocyte differentiation pathway. Our study identified LGALS8 as a disease-specific gene, characterizing SCZ patients, that may in the future be exploited as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Petralia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (M.C.Q.)
| | - Rosella Ciurleo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Alessia Bramanti
- Department of Medicine, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Andrea Saraceno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (K.M.); (F.N.)
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (K.M.); (F.N.)
| | - Maria Catena Quattropani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (M.C.Q.)
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (K.M.); (F.N.)
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (K.M.); (F.N.)
- Correspondence:
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Campbell NK, Fitzgerald HK, Dunne A. Regulation of inflammation by the antioxidant haem oxygenase 1. Nat Rev Immunol 2021; 21:411-425. [PMID: 33514947 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-020-00491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Haem oxygenase 1 (HO-1), an inducible enzyme responsible for the breakdown of haem, is primarily considered an antioxidant, and has long been overlooked by immunologists. However, research over the past two decades in particular has demonstrated that HO-1 also exhibits numerous anti-inflammatory properties. These emerging immunomodulatory functions have made HO-1 an appealing target for treatment of diseases characterized by high levels of chronic inflammation. In this Review, we present an introduction to HO-1 for immunologists, including an overview of its roles in iron metabolism and antioxidant defence, and the factors which regulate its expression. We discuss the impact of HO-1 induction in specific immune cell populations and provide new insights into the immunomodulation that accompanies haem catabolism, including its relationship to immunometabolism. Furthermore, we highlight the therapeutic potential of HO-1 induction to treat chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and the issues faced when trying to translate such therapies to the clinic. Finally, we examine a number of alternative, safer strategies that are under investigation to harness the therapeutic potential of HO-1, including the use of phytochemicals, novel HO-1 inducers and carbon monoxide-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole K Campbell
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland. .,Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Hannah K Fitzgerald
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aisling Dunne
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Altered Expression of TSPAN32 during B Cell Activation and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12060931. [PMID: 34207245 PMCID: PMC8234828 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease with various clinical features. Autoreactive B cells play a role in disease pathogenesis, through the production of multiple autoantibodies, which form immune complexes and induce the inflammatory response and tissue damage associated with SLE. Recently, tetraspanins, and in particular, TSPAN32, have been recognized to play a central role in immunity, as they are involved in various biological processes, such as the antigen presentation and the activation of lymphocytes. Evidence suggests that tetraspanins could represent in the future a target for therapeutic purposes in patients suffering from autoimmune/immunoinflammatory disorders. In the present study, by performing in silico analyses of high-throughput data, we evaluated the expression levels of TSPAN32 in B cell activation and investigated its modulation in circulating B cells from SLE patients. Our data show that B cell activation is associated with a significant downregulation of TSPAN32. Additionally, significantly lower levels of TSPAN32 were observed in circulating plasmablasts from SLE patients as compared to healthy donor plasmablasts. In addition, type I interferons (IFNs)-related genes were enriched among the genes negatively correlated to TSPAN32, in SLE plasmablasts. Accordingly, IFN-α is able to induce a dose-dependent downregulation of TSPAN32 in B cells. Overall, the data here presented suggest the potential use of TSPAN32 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for the evaluation and management of humoral immune responses in chronic diseases, such as SLE.
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Rahman MR, Islam T, Nicoletti F, Petralia MC, Ciurleo R, Fisicaro F, Pennisi M, Bramanti A, Demirtas TY, Gov E, Islam MR, Mussa BM, Moni MA, Fagone P. Identification of Common Pathogenetic Processes between Schizophrenia and Diabetes Mellitus by Systems Biology Analysis. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12020237. [PMID: 33562405 PMCID: PMC7916024 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by both positive symptoms (i.e., psychosis) and negative symptoms (such as apathy, anhedonia, and poverty of speech). Epidemiological data show a high likelihood of early onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in SCZ patients. However, the molecular processes that could explain the epidemiological association between SCZ and T2DM have not yet been characterized. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to identify underlying common molecular pathogenetic processes and pathways between SCZ and T2DM. To this aim, we analyzed peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) transcriptomic data from SCZ and T2DM patients, and we detected 28 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) commonly modulated between SCZ and T2DM. Inflammatory-associated processes and membrane trafficking pathways as common biological processes were found to be in common between SCZ and T2DM. Analysis of the putative transcription factors involved in the regulation of the DEGs revealed that STAT1 (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 1), RELA (v-rel reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogene homolog A (avian)), NFKB1 (Nuclear Factor Kappa B Subunit 1), and ERG (ETS-related gene) are involved in the expression of common DEGs in SCZ and T2DM. In conclusion, we provide core molecular signatures and pathways that are shared between SCZ and T2DM, which may contribute to the epidemiological association between them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Rezanur Rahman
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Islamic University, Kushtia 7003, Bangladesh;
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Khwaja Yunus Ali University, Enayetpur, Sirajganj 6751, Bangladesh;
| | - Tania Islam
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Khwaja Yunus Ali University, Enayetpur, Sirajganj 6751, Bangladesh;
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (F.F.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Cristina Petralia
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (R.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Rosella Ciurleo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (R.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Francesco Fisicaro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (F.F.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
| | - Manuela Pennisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (F.F.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
| | - Alessia Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (R.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Talip Yasir Demirtas
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Adana Alparslan Turkes Science and Technology University, Adana 01250, Turkey; (T.Y.D.); (E.G.)
| | - Esra Gov
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Adana Alparslan Turkes Science and Technology University, Adana 01250, Turkey; (T.Y.D.); (E.G.)
| | - Md Rafiqul Islam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia;
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Bashair M. Mussa
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Mohammad Ali Moni
- WHO Collaborating Centre on eHealth, UNSW Digital Health, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (F.F.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
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20
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Lombardo SD, Bramanti A, Ciurleo R, Basile MS, Pennisi M, Bella R, Mangano K, Bramanti P, Nicoletti F, Fagone P. Profiling of inhibitory immune checkpoints in glioblastoma: Potential pathogenetic players. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:332. [PMID: 33123243 PMCID: PMC7583708 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) represents the most frequent glial tumor, with almost 3 new cases per 100,000 people per year. Despite treatment, the prognosis for GBM patients remains extremely poor, with a median survival of 14.6 months, and a 5-year survival less than 5%. It is generally believed that GBM creates a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment, sustained by the expression of immune-regulatory factors, including inhibitory immune checkpoints, on both infiltrating cells and tumor cells. However, the trials assessing the efficacy of current immune checkpoint inhibitors in GBM are still disappointing. In the present study, the expression levels of several inhibitory immune checkpoints in GBM (CD276, VTCN1, CD47, PVR, TNFRSF14, CD200, LGALS9, NECTIN2 and CD48) were characterized in order to evaluate their potential as prognostic and eventually, therapeutic targets. Among the investigated immune checkpoints, TNFRSF14 and NECTIN2 were identified as the most promising targets in GBM. In particular, a higher TNFRSF14 expression was associated with worse overall survival and disease-free survival, and with a lower Th1 response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvo Danilo Lombardo
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Rosella Ciurleo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, I-98124 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Pennisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rita Bella
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Advanced Technologies, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
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21
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Sanfilippo C, Musumeci G, Kazakova M, Mazzone V, Castrogiovanni P, Imbesi R, Di Rosa M. GNG13 Is a Potential Marker of the State of Health of Alzheimer's Disease Patients' Cerebellum. J Mol Neurosci 2020; 71:1046-1060. [PMID: 33057964 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01726-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brain regions such as the cerebellum (CB) have been neglected for a long time in the study of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. In reference to a new emerging hypothesis according to which there is an altered cerebellar synaptic processing in AD, we verified the possible role played by new biomarkers in the CB of AD patients compared with not-demented healthy control subjects (NDHS). Using a bioinformatics approach, we have collected several microarray datasets and obtained 626 cerebella sample biopsies belonging to subjects who did not die from causes related to neurological diseases and 199 cerebella belonging to AD. The analysis of logical relations between the transcriptome dataset highlighted guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein) gamma 13 (GNG13) as a potential new biomarker for Purkinje cells (PCs). We have correlated GNG13 expression levels with already widely existing bibliography of PC marker genes, such as Purkinje cell protein 2 (PCP2), Purkinje cell protein 4 (PCP4), and cerebellin 3 (CBLN3). We showed that expression levels of GNG13 and PCP2, PCP4, and CBLN3 were significantly correlated with each other in NDHS and in AD and significantly reduced in AD patients compared with NDHS subjects. In addition, we highlighted a negative correlation between the expression levels of PC biomarkers and age. From the outcome of our investigation, it is possible to conclude that the identification of GNG13 as a potentially biomarker in PCs represents also a state of health of CB, in association with the expression of PCP2, PCP4, and CBLN3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Sanfilippo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Strada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Human Anatomy and Histology Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Kazakova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Medical University, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Venera Mazzone
- Department G.F. Ingrassia, Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Paola Castrogiovanni
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Human Anatomy and Histology Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosa Imbesi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Human Anatomy and Histology Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Human Anatomy and Histology Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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22
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Lazarević M, Battaglia G, Jevtić B, Đedović N, Bruno V, Cavalli E, Miljković Đ, Nicoletti F, Momčilović M, Fagone P. Upregulation of Tolerogenic Pathways by the Hydrogen Sulfide Donor GYY4137 and Impaired Expression of H 2S-Producing Enzymes in Multiple Sclerosis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E608. [PMID: 32664399 PMCID: PMC7402185 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9070608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the in vitro effects of the slow-releasing H2S donor GYY4137 on the immune cells involved in the pathogenesis of the central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune disease, multiple sclerosis (MS). GYY4137 specifically potentiated TGF-β expression and production in dendritic cells and significantly reduced IFN-γ and IL-17 production in the lymph node and spinal cord T cells obtained from mice immunized with CNS antigens. Both the proportion of FoxP3+ regulatory CD4+ T cells in the lymph node cells, and the percentage of IL-17+ CD4+ T cells in the spinal cord cells were reduced upon culturing with GYY4137. Interestingly, the peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from the MS patients had a lower expression of the H2S-producing enzyme, 3-mercaptopyruvate-sulfurtransferase (MPST), in comparison to those obtained from healthy donors. A significant inverse correlation between the expression of MPST and several pro-inflammatory factors was also observed. Further studies on the relevance of the observed results for the pathogenesis and therapy of MS are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Lazarević
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Giuseppe Battaglia
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Piazzale A. Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Località Camerelle, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Bojan Jevtić
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Neda Đedović
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Valeria Bruno
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Piazzale A. Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Località Camerelle, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Eugenio Cavalli
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Đorđe Miljković
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Miljana Momčilović
- Department of Immunology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy
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23
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Baicalein Inhibits Benzo[a]pyrene-Induced Toxic Response by Downregulating Src Phosphorylation and by Upregulating NRF2-HMOX1 System. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9060507. [PMID: 32526964 PMCID: PMC7346154 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9060507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a major environmental pollutant, activates aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), induces its cytoplasmic-to-nuclear translocation and upregulates the production of cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), a xenobiotic metabolizing enzyme which metabolize BaP. The BaP-AHR-CYP1A1 axis generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induces proinflammatory cytokines. Although the anti-inflammatory phytochemical baicalein (BAI) is known to inhibit the BaP-AHR-mediated CYP1A1 expression, its subcellular signaling remains elusive. In this study, normal human epidermal keratinocytes and HaCaT keratinocytes were treated with BAI, BaP, or BAI + BaP, and assessed for the CYP1A1 expression, antioxidative pathways, ROS generation, and proinflammatory cytokine expressions. BAI and BAI-containing herbal medicine Wogon and Oren-gedoku-to could inhibit the BaP-induced CYP1A1 expression. In addition, BAI activated antioxidative system nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor-2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1), leading the reduction of BaP-induced ROS production. The BaP-induced IL1A and IL1B was also downregulated by BAI. BAI inhibited the phosphorylation of Src, a component of AHR cytoplasmic complex, which eventually interfered with the cytoplasmic-to-nuclear translocation of AHR. These results indicate that BAI and BAI-containing herbal drugs may be useful for inhibiting the toxic effects of BaP via dual AHR-CYP1A1-inhibiting and NRF2-HMOX1-activating activities.
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24
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Petralia MC, Ciurleo R, Saraceno A, Pennisi M, Basile MS, Fagone P, Bramanti P, Nicoletti F, Cavalli E. Meta-Analysis of Transcriptomic Data of Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Identifies Altered Pathways in Schizophrenia. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11040390. [PMID: 32260267 PMCID: PMC7230488 DOI: 10.3390/genes11040390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by both positive and negative symptoms, including cognitive dysfunction, decline in motivation, delusion and hallucinations. Antipsychotic agents are currently the standard of care treatment for SCZ. However, only about one-third of SCZ patients respond to antipsychotic medications. In the current study, we have performed a meta-analysis of publicly available whole-genome expression datasets on Brodmann area 46 of the brain dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in order to prioritize potential pathways underlying SCZ pathology. Moreover, we have evaluated whether the differentially expressed genes in SCZ belong to specific subsets of cell types. Finally, a cross-tissue comparison at both the gene and functional level was performed by analyzing the transcriptomic pattern of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of SCZ patients. Our study identified a robust disease-specific set of dysfunctional biological pathways characterizing SCZ patients that could in the future be exploited as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosella Ciurleo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Andrea Saraceno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (M.P.); (M.S.B.); (F.N.); (E.C.)
| | - Manuela Pennisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (M.P.); (M.S.B.); (F.N.); (E.C.)
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (M.P.); (M.S.B.); (F.N.); (E.C.)
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (M.P.); (M.S.B.); (F.N.); (E.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-4781284
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (M.P.); (M.S.B.); (F.N.); (E.C.)
| | - Eugenio Cavalli
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.S.); (M.P.); (M.S.B.); (F.N.); (E.C.)
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25
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Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Abnormal Expression of Prion Disease Gene Pathway in Brains from Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10040200. [PMID: 32235346 PMCID: PMC7226514 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10040200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of infections in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is still controversial. In this study, we aimed to evaluate markers of infections and immune activation in ASD by performing a meta-analysis of publicly available whole-genome transcriptomic datasets of brain samples from autistic patients and otherwise normal people. Among the differentially expressed genes, no significant enrichment was observed for infectious diseases previously associated with ASD, including herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), cytomegalovirus and Epstein–Barr virus in brain samples, nor was it found in peripheral blood from ASD patients. Interestingly, a significant number of genes belonging to the “prion diseases” pathway were found to be modulated in our ASD brain meta-analysis. Overall, our data do not support an association between infection and ASD. However, the data do provide support for the involvement of pathways related to other neurodegenerative diseases and give input to uncover novel pathogenetic mechanisms underlying ASD.
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26
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Cavalli E, Battaglia G, Basile MS, Bruno V, Petralia MC, Lombardo SD, Pennisi M, Kalfin R, Tancheva L, Fagone P, Nicoletti F, Mangano K. Exploratory Analysis of iPSCS-Derived Neuronal Cells as Predictors of Diagnosis and Treatment of Alzheimer Disease. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10030166. [PMID: 32183090 PMCID: PMC7139610 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents the most common neurodegenerative disorder, with 47 million affected people worldwide. Current treatment strategies are aimed at reducing the symptoms and do slow down the progression of the disease, but inevitably fail in the long-term. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-derived neuronal cells from AD patients have proven to be a reliable model for AD pathogenesis. Here, we have conducted an in silico analysis aimed at identifying pathogenic gene-expression profiles and novel drug candidates. The GSE117589 microarray dataset was used for the identification of Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) between iPSC-derived neuronal progenitor (NP) cells and neurons from AD patients and healthy donors. The Discriminant Analysis Module (DAM) algorithm was used for the identification of biomarkers of disease. Drugs with anti-signature gene perturbation profiles were identified using the L1000FWD software. DAM analysis was used to identify a list of potential biomarkers among the DEGs, able to discriminate AD patients from healthy people. Finally, anti-signature perturbation analysis identified potential anti-AD drugs. This study set the basis for the investigation of potential novel pharmacological strategies for AD. Furthermore, a subset of genes for the early diagnosis of AD is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Cavalli
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Battaglia
- University Sapienza, Piazzale A. Moro, 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (G.B.); (V.B.)
- IRCCS Neuromed, Località Camerelle, 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
| | - Valeria Bruno
- University Sapienza, Piazzale A. Moro, 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (G.B.); (V.B.)
- IRCCS Neuromed, Località Camerelle, 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | | | - Salvo Danilo Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
| | - Manuela Pennisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
| | - Reni Kalfin
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 23, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (R.K.); (L.T.)
| | - Lyubka Tancheva
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 23, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (R.K.); (L.T.)
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-478-1284
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.C.); (M.S.B.); (S.D.L.); (M.P.); (F.N.); (K.M.)
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27
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Yan Y, Wang L, Chen S, Zhao G, Fu C, Xu B, Tan X, Xiang Y, Chen G. Carbon Monoxide Inhibits T Cell Proliferation by Suppressing Reactive Oxygen Species Signaling. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 32:429-446. [PMID: 31810391 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2019.7814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aims: Carbon monoxide (CO) confers antiproliferative effects on T cells; however, how these effects are produced remains unclear. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have recently emerged as important modulators of T cell proliferation. In this study, we aimed to determine whether the inhibitory effects of CO on T cell proliferation are dependent on the inhibition of ROS signaling. Results: Pretreatment with CO-releasing molecule-2 (CORM-2) had potent inhibitory effects on mouse T cell proliferation stimulated by anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies. Interestingly, CORM-2 pretreatment markedly suppressed intracellular ROS generation as well as the activity of NADPH oxidase and mitochondrial complexes I-IV in T cells after stimulation. The inhibitory effects of CORM-2 on both ROS production and T cell proliferation were comparable with those produced by the use of antioxidant N-acetylcysteine or a combined administration of mitochondrial complex I-IV inhibitors. Moreover, increasing intracellular ROS via hydrogen peroxide supplementation largely reversed the inhibitory effect of CORM-2 on the proliferation of T cells. The inhibitory effects of CORM-2 on both cell proliferation and intracellular ROS production were also shown in a T cell proliferation model involving stimulation by allogeneic dendritic cells or phorbol 12-myristate 13-actetate/ionomycin, as well as in spontaneous cell proliferation models in EL-4 and RAW264.7 cells. In addition, CORM-2 treatment significantly inhibited T cell activation in vivo and attenuated concanavalin A-induced autoimmune hepatitis. Innovation: CO inhibits T cell proliferation via suppression of intracellular ROS production. Conclusion: The study could supply a general mechanism to explain the inhibitory effects of CO on T cell activation and proliferation, favoring its future application in T cell-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutao Yan
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Song Chen
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Guangyuan Zhao
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Fu
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bingyang Xu
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaosheng Tan
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Xiang
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, National Health Commission, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
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28
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Mangano K, Lanteri R, Basile MS, Bellavia N, Latino R, Messina D, Fagone P, Colletti G, Nania R, Caltabiano R, Di Marco R, Di Cataldo A. Effects of GIT-27NO, a NO-donating compound, on hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2020; 33:2058738419862736. [PMID: 31298048 PMCID: PMC6628530 DOI: 10.1177/2058738419862736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a clinical condition that may lead
to cellular injury and organ dysfunction that can be observed in different
conditions, such as trauma, shock, liver resection, and transplantation.
Moderate levels of nitric oxide (NO) produced by the endothelial isoform of the
NO synthase protect against liver IRI. GIT-27NO is a NO-derivative of the
toll-like receptor 4 antagonist VGX-1027 that has been shown to possess both
antineoplastic and immunomodulatory properties in vitro and in vivo. In this
study, we have investigated the effects of this compound in vitro, in a model of
oxidative stress induced in HepG2 cells by hydrogen peroxide
(H2O2), and in vivo, in a rat model of IRI of the
liver. GIT-27NO significantly counteracted the toxic effects induced by the
H2O2 on the HepG2 cells and in vivo, GIT-27NO reduced
the transaminase levels and the histological liver injury by reducing necrotic
areas with preservation of viable tissue. These effects were almost similar to
that of the positive control drug dimethyl fumarate. These data suggest that the
beneficial effect of GIT-27NO in the hepatic IRI can be secondary to
anti-oxidative effects and hepatocyte necrosis reduction probably mediated by NO
release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Mangano
- 1 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Raffaele Lanteri
- 2 Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- 1 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Noemi Bellavia
- 2 Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalia Latino
- 2 Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Domenico Messina
- 1 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Paolo Fagone
- 1 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Colletti
- 1 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Riccardo Nania
- 1 Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- 3 Department of Surgical Sciences, Organ Transplantation and Advanced Technologies, G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Di Marco
- 4 Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio," University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Cataldo
- 2 Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Petralia MC, Mazzon E, Mangano K, Fagone P, Di Marco R, Falzone L, Basile MS, Nicoletti F, Cavalli E. Transcriptomic analysis reveals moderate modulation of macrophage migration inhibitory factor superfamily genes in alcohol use disorders. Exp Ther Med 2020; 19:1755-1762. [PMID: 32104230 PMCID: PMC7026954 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a primary, chronic and relapsing disease of brain reward, motivation and memory, which is associated with several comorbidities, including major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. It has been revealed that Ibudilast (IBUD), a dual inhibitor of phosphodiesterase-4 and −10 and of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), exerts beneficial effects on AUD in rodent models and human patients. Therefore, IBUD has attracted increasing interest, with research focusing on the elucidation of the pathogenic role of MIF and its homologue, D-dopachrome tautomerase (DDT), in the pathogenesis and maintenance of AUD. By using DNA microarray analysis, the current study performed a transcriptomic expression analysis of MIF, DDT and their co-receptors, including CD74, C-X-C chemokine receptor (CXCR)2, CXCR4 and CXCR7 in patients with AUD. The results revealed that the transcriptomic levels of MIF, DDT and their receptors were superimposable in the prefrontal cortex of rodents and patients with AUD and human patients. Furthermore, peripheral blood cells from heavy drinkers exhibited a moderate increase in MIF and DDT levels, both at the baseline and following exposure to alcohol-associated cues, based on individual situations that included alcohol-related stimuli resulting in subsequent alcohol use (buying alcohol and being at a bar, watching others drink alcohol). Considering the overlapping effects of MIF and DDT, the inverse Fisher's χ2 test was performed on unadjusted P-values to evaluate the combined effect of MIF and DDT. The results revealed a significant increase in these cytokines in heavy drinkers compared with controls (moderate drinkers). To the best of our knowledge, the present study demonstrated for the first time that MIF and DDT expression was upregulated in the blood of patients with AUD. These results therefore warrant further study to evaluate the role of MIF and DDT in the development and maintenance of AUD, to evaluate their use as biomarkers to predict the psychotherapeutic and pharmacological response of patients with AUD and for use as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Petralia
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) Centro Neurolesi 'Bonino-Pulejo', I-98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Katia Mangano
- IRCCS (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) Centro Neurolesi 'Bonino-Pulejo', I-98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Di Marco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences 'Vincenzo Tiberio', University of Molise, I-86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Luca Falzone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Eugenio Cavalli
- IRCCS (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare) Centro Neurolesi 'Bonino-Pulejo', I-98124 Messina, Italy
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Cavalli E, Mazzon E, Basile MS, Mammana S, Pennisi M, Fagone P, Kalfin R, Martinovic V, Ivanovic J, Andabaka M, Mesaros S, Pekmezovic T, Drulovic J, Nicoletti F, Petralia MC. In Silico and In Vivo Analysis of IL37 in Multiple Sclerosis Reveals Its Probable Homeostatic Role on the Clinical Activity, Disability, and Treatment with Fingolimod. Molecules 2019; 25:molecules25010020. [PMID: 31861585 PMCID: PMC6982851 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the in silico expression and circulating levels of interleukin (IL)37 in patients with different forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and also upon treatment with different disease-modifying drugs. The combined interpretation of the resulting data strengthens and extends the current emerging concept that endogenous IL37 plays an important role in determining onset and progression of MS. The in silico analysis revealed that production of IL37 from cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T cells from MS patients was reduced in vitro as compared to healthy controls. The analysis of the datasets also demonstrated that “higher” levels of IL37 production from PBMC entailed significant protection from MS relapses. In addition, the in vivo part of the study showed that IL37 was selectively augmented in the sera of MS patients during a relapse and that treatment with the high potency disease-modifying drug fingolimod significantly increased the frequency of patients with circulating blood levels of IL37 (6/9, 66%) as compared to patients receiving no treatment (n = 48) or platform therapy (n = 59) who had levels of IL37 below the limit of the sensitivity of the assay. This finding therefore anticipates that fingolimod may at least partially exert its beneficial effects in MS by upregulating the production of IL37.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Cavalli
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (E.C.); (E.M.); (S.M.); (M.C.P.)
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (E.C.); (E.M.); (S.M.); (M.C.P.)
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
| | - Santa Mammana
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (E.C.); (E.M.); (S.M.); (M.C.P.)
| | - Manuela Pennisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
| | - Reni Kalfin
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 23 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Vanja Martinovic
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr Subotica 6, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (J.I.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (T.P.); (J.D.)
| | - Jovana Ivanovic
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr Subotica 6, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (J.I.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (T.P.); (J.D.)
| | - Marko Andabaka
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr Subotica 6, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (J.I.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (T.P.); (J.D.)
| | - Sarlota Mesaros
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr Subotica 6, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (J.I.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (T.P.); (J.D.)
| | - Tatjana Pekmezovic
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr Subotica 6, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (J.I.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (T.P.); (J.D.)
| | - Jelena Drulovic
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr Subotica 6, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.M.); (J.I.); (M.A.); (S.M.); (T.P.); (J.D.)
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 89, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (M.P.); (P.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-478-1270
| | - Maria Cristina Petralia
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (E.C.); (E.M.); (S.M.); (M.C.P.)
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Petralia MC, Mazzon E, Basile MS, Cutuli M, Di Marco R, Scandurra F, Saraceno A, Fagone P, Nicoletti F, Mangano K. Effects of Treatment with the Hypomethylating Agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine in Murine Type II Collagen-Induced Arthritis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12040174. [PMID: 31783688 PMCID: PMC6958460 DOI: 10.3390/ph12040174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The emerging role of epigenetics in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has recently attracted much interest on the possible use of epigenetic modulators for the prevention and treatment of these diseases. In particular, we and others have shown that drugs that inhibit DNA methylation, such as azacitidine (AZA) and decitabine (DAC), already used for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia, exert powerful beneficial effects in rodent models of type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and Guillain Barrè syndrome. Along this line of research, we have presently studied the effects of DAC in a murine model of rheumatoid arthritis induced by type II collagen and have demonstrated that DAC administration was associated with a significant amelioration of the clinical condition, along with in vivo and ex vivo modification of the immunological profile of the so-treated mice, that exhibited a diminished production of Th1 and Th17 pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduction of anti-type II collagen autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (M.C.P.); (E.M.)
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Marco Cutuli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Roberto Di Marco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Fabiola Scandurra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Andrea Saraceno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-478-1270
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.S.B.); (F.S.); (A.S.); (P.F.); (K.M.)
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Cavalli E, Mazzon E, Mammana S, Basile MS, Lombardo SD, Mangano K, Bramanti P, Nicoletti F, Fagone P, Petralia MC. Overexpression of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor and Its Homologue D-Dopachrome Tautomerase as Negative Prognostic Factor in Neuroblastoma. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9100284. [PMID: 31635049 PMCID: PMC6826588 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9100284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) represents one of the most frequent pediatric solid tumors. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a cytokine exerting multiple biological functions. More recently, a second member of the MIF family of cytokine has been identified, the D-dopachrome tautomerase (DDT), that exerts several overlapping functions with MIF. Growing evidence suggests a key role for MIF and DDT in the development of cancer. The aim of this study is to characterize the prognostic value of MIF and DDT in NB. We show that higher expression levels of MIF and DDT in Stage 4 NB samples are associated with a poorer prognosis, independently of the presence of MYCN amplification. Moreover, higher levels of MIF are mostly enriched by Th1 cells, while lower levels of MIF are associated with an increased proportion of B cells, Cytotoxic T cells, Dendritic cells and Natural Killer T cells. We also show that treatment with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, vorinostat, of the NB cell line, SH-SY5Y, determines a significant reduction in the expression of both MIF and DDT. Finally, MIF and DDT inhibition by short interfering RNA is able to revert vincristine sensitivity in vitro. Overall, our data suggest that MIF exert pro-tumorigenic properties in NB, likely by dampening antigen presentation and cytotoxic immune responses, and we propose the HDAC inhibitors as a potential therapeutic strategy for NB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Cavalli
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Santa Mammana
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Salvo Danilo Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
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Lombardo SD, Mazzon E, Basile MS, Campo G, Corsico F, Presti M, Bramanti P, Mangano K, Petralia MC, Nicoletti F, Fagone P. Modulation of Tetraspanin 32 (TSPAN32) Expression in T Cell-Mediated Immune Responses and in Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184323. [PMID: 31487788 PMCID: PMC6770290 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Tetraspanins are a conserved family of proteins involved in a number of biological processes including, cell–cell interactions, fertility, cancer metastasis and immune responses. It has previously been shown that TSPAN32 knockout mice have normal hemopoiesis and B-cell responses, but hyperproliferative T cells. Here, we show that TSPAN32 is expressed at higher levels in the lymphoid lineage as compared to myeloid cells. In vitro activation of T helper cells via anti-CD3/CD28 is associated with a significant downregulation of TSPAN32. Interestingly, engagement of CD3 is sufficient to modulate TSPAN32 expression, and its effect is potentiated by costimulation with anti-CD28, but not anti-CTLA4, -ICOS nor -PD1. Accordingly, we measured the transcriptomic levels of TSPAN32 in polarized T cells under Th1 and Th2 conditions and TSPAN32 resulted significantly reduced as compared with unstimulated cells. On the other hand, in Treg cells, TSPAN32 underwent minor changes upon activation. The in vitro data were finally translated into the context of multiple sclerosis (MS). Encephalitogenic T cells from Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG)-Induced Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice showed significantly lower levels of TSPAN32 and increased levels of CD9, CD53, CD82 and CD151. Similarly, in vitro-activated circulating CD4 T cells from MS patients showed lower levels of TSPAN32 as compared with cells from healthy donors. Overall, these data suggest an immunoregulatory role for TSPAN32 in T helper immune response and may represent a target of future immunoregulatory therapies for T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvo Danilo Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giorgia Campo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Corsico
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Mario Presti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Lombardo SD, Presti M, Mangano K, Petralia MC, Basile MS, Libra M, Candido S, Fagone P, Mazzon E, Nicoletti F, Bramanti A. Prediction of PD-L1 Expression in Neuroblastoma via Computational Modeling. Brain Sci 2019; 9:E221. [PMID: 31480495 PMCID: PMC6770763 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9090221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a promising new therapeutic approach for neuroblastoma (NBM): an anti-GD2 vaccine combined with orally administered soluble beta-glucan is undergoing a phase II clinical trial and nivolumab and ipilimumab are being tested in recurrent and refractory tumors. Unfortunately, predictive biomarkers of response to immunotherapy are currently not available for NBM patients. The aim of this study was to create a computational network model simulating the different intracellular pathways involved in NBM, in order to predict how the tumor phenotype may be influenced to increase the sensitivity to anti-programmed cell death-ligand-1 (PD-L1)/programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) immunotherapy. The model runs on COPASI software. In order to determine the influence of intracellular signaling pathways on the expression of PD-L1 in NBM, we first developed an integrated network of protein kinase cascades. Michaelis-Menten kinetics were associated to each reaction in order to tailor the different enzymes kinetics, creating a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The data of this study offers a first tool to be considered in the therapeutic management of the NBM patient undergoing immunotherapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvo Danilo Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Mario Presti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Katia Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Petralia
- IRCCS (Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124- Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Saverio Candido
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS (Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124- Messina, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123- Catania, Italy
| | - Alessia Bramanti
- IRCCS (Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, C.da Casazza, 98124- Messina, Italy
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Upregulation of IL-1 Receptor Antagonist in a Mouse Model of Migraine. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9070172. [PMID: 31331109 PMCID: PMC6680509 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9070172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a disorder characterized by attacks of monolateral headaches, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and photophobia. Around 30% of patients also report aura symptoms. The cause of the aura is believed to be related to the cortical spreading depression (CSD), a wave of neuronal and glial depolarization originating in the occipital cortex, followed by temporary neuronal silencing. During a migraine attack, increased expression of inflammatory mediators, along with a decrease in the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, have been observed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of inflammatory genes, in particular that of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RN), following CSD in a mouse model of familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 (FHM-1). We show here that the expression of IL-1RN was upregulated after the CSD, suggesting a possible attempt to modulate the inflammatory response. This study allows researchers to better understand the development of the disease and aids in the search for new therapeutic strategies in migraine.
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Petralia MC, Mazzon E, Fagone P, Falzone L, Bramanti P, Nicoletti F, Basile MS. Retrospective follow-up analysis of the transcriptomic patterns of cytokines, cytokine receptors and chemokines at preconception and during pregnancy, in women with post-partum depression. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:2055-2062. [PMID: 31410161 PMCID: PMC6676209 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-partum depression (PPD) occurs in approximately 20% of women usually early following child delivery. PPD represents an important unmet medical need as it is frequently underdiagnosed and, as the neurobiology of the disease is limitedly known, no pathogenic-tailored approach is available and only symptomatic medications are used. In the present study, we carried out a DNA microarray analysis to evaluate the fluctuation of cytokines, cytokine receptors and chemokines during the preconception period, the 1st and 3th trimester of pregnancy and the early post-partum period. The data demonstrated that, as compared to always-depressed patients and euthymic controls, women who developed PPD exhibited significant fluctuations in the levels of different cytokines and cytokine receptors, primarily related to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)18. These data emphasize the role of the immune system in PPD. However, additional studies aimed at evaluating if and how these functional modifications of the immune system during pregnancy are related to the development of PPD warranted to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi 'Bonino-Pulejo', I-98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Falzone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Sofia Basile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
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Yan SC, Wang YJ, Li YJ, Cai WY, Weng XG, Li Q, Chen Y, Yang Q, Zhu XX. Dihydroartemisinin Regulates the Th/Treg Balance by Inducing Activated CD4+ T cell Apoptosis via Heme Oxygenase-1 Induction in Mouse Models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24132475. [PMID: 31284478 PMCID: PMC6651826 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24132475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is a derivative of the herb Artemisia annua L. that has prominent immunomodulatory activity; however, its underlying mechanism remains elusive. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an idiopathic inflammatory condition characterized as an autoimmune disorder that includes dysfunctions in the T helper (Th)/T regulatory cell (Treg) balance, which normally plays pivotal roles in immune homeostasis. The aim of this study was to explore the potential of DHA to ameliorate IBD by restoring the Th/Treg cell balance. To this end, we established mouse models of colitis induced by oxazolone (OXA) and 2,4,6-trinitro-benzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). We then treated mice with DHA at 4, 8, or 16 mg/kg/day. DHA treatment ameliorated colitis signs and reduced lymphocyte infiltration and tissue fibrosis. Moreover, DHA decreased the numbers of Th1 and Th17 cells and Th9 and Th22 cells in TNBS- or OXA-induced colitis, respectively, and increased Tregs in both models. DHA (0.8 mg/mL) also inhibited activated CD4+ T lymphocytes, which was accompanied by apoptosis induction. Moreover, it promoted heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) production in vitro and in vivo, concomitant with CD4+ T cell apoptosis and restoration of the Th/Treg balance, and these effects were blocked by treatment with the HO-1 inhibitor Sn-protoporphyrin IX. Overall, these results suggest that DHA is a novel and valuable candidate for IBD therapy or Th/Treg immunoregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Chao Yan
- Artemisinin Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ya Jie Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yu Jie Li
- Artemisinin Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Wei Yan Cai
- Artemisinin Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Xiao Gang Weng
- Artemisinin Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Qi Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Xiao Xin Zhu
- Artemisinin Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
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Characterization of the Pathophysiological Role of CD47 in Uveal Melanoma. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24132450. [PMID: 31277366 PMCID: PMC6651482 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24132450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) represents the most frequent primary intraocular tumor, however, limited therapeutic options are still available. We have previously shown that cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47) is significantly upregulated in UM cells following inflammatory stimuli and that it represents a predictor of disease progression. Here, we aimed to better characterize the pathophysiological role of CD47 in UM. We show that CD47 is not modulated at different cancer stages, although patients with the lowest expression of CD47 show significant better progression-free survival, after correcting for the presence of BAP1, GNAQ, and GNA11 mutations. By stratifying patients based on the expression of CD47 in the tumor, we observed that patients with high levels of CD47 have a significant increase in immune score as compared to patients with low levels of CD47. In particular, deconvolution analysis of infiltrating immune cell populations revealed that a significantly higher number of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells can be found in patients with high CD47 levels, with the most enriched populations being the Th2, Treg, and CD8+ Tcm cells. We also show that a large number of transcripts are significantly modulated between the groups of patients with high and low levels of CD47, with a significant enrichment of interferon IFN-alpha regulated genes. The results from this study may propel the development of anti-CD47 therapies for UM patients.
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Wang F, Wen Q, Zhang S, Fu Z, Liu F, Cui J, Liu J, Tian H. Sustained bile drainage decreases the organs injuries via inflammation-associated factors modulation in a severe acute pancreatitis rat model. Exp Ther Med 2019; 17:4628-4634. [PMID: 31086593 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The timely and effective treatment for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is favorable to prognosis. Decompression of the bile duct might be a feasible way to decrease the progression of SAP. The present study investigated the effects of sustained bile external drainage on organs injury caused by SAP in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and the mechanisms involved. A total of 72 female SD rats weighting 190-230 g were randomly divided into four groups (n=18): Sham operation group (SOG), SOG + bile drainage group (BDG), SAP group, and SAP + BDG. Sodium taurocholate solution (4%; 1 mg/kg body weight) was used to set up SAP model via injection of retrograde puncture of biliopancreatic duct through the duodenum. A cannula was inserted into the bile duct and fixed externally to establish BDG model. At each time points (t=3, 6, 12; n=6), tissues from the liver, lung, and pancreas, and blood samples were collected. Serum amylase (AMY) was analyzed in all the samples. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) were detected by ELISA. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to observe the histopathological changes, and nuclear transcription factor (NF)-κB-p65 levels in the pancreas were analyzed by western blotting. The data indicated that BDG alleviated the SAP progression and multiple organs injuries. Meanwhile, the histopathological changes of the pancreas, liver, and lungs were improved by BDG. BDG decreased the pathological scores of pancreas significantly (P<0.05). The levels of AMY, TNF-α, HMGB1, and NF-κB-p65 were significantly downregulated by BDG (P<0.05), while the level of HO-1 was upregulated and IL-10 was unchanged. In summary, BDG may attenuate the multiple organs injuries caused by SAP via downregulation of TNF-α, HMGB1, NF-κB-p65 and upregulation of HO-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhai Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Qingbin Wen
- Department of Surgery, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Sai Zhang
- Department of Surgery, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Jing Cui
- Department of Pathology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Ju Liu
- Laboratory of Microvascular Medicine, Medical Research Center, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Hu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
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Nitrate Reductase-Mediated Nitric Oxide Regulates the Leaf Shape in Arabidopsis by Mediating the Homeostasis of Reactive Oxygen Species. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092235. [PMID: 31067654 PMCID: PMC6539879 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As a gaseous biological signaling molecule, nitric oxide (NO) regulates many physiological processes in plants. Over the last decades, this low molecular weight compound has been identified as a key signaling molecule to regulate plant stress responses, and also plays an important role in plant development. However, elucidation of the molecular mechanisms for NO in leaf development has so far been limited due to a lack of mutant resources. Here, we employed the NO-deficient mutant nia1nia2 to examine the role of NO in leaf development. We have found that nia1nia2 mutant plants displayed very different leaf phenotypes as compared to wild type Col-0. Further studies have shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels are higher in nia1nia2 mutant plants. Interestingly, ROS-related enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalases (CAT), and peroxidases (POD) have shown decreases in their activities. Our transcriptome data have revealed that the ROS synthesis gene RBOHD was enhanced in nia1nia2 mutants and the photosynthesis-related pathway was impaired, which suggests that NO is required for chloroplast development and leaf development. Together, these results imply that NO plays a significant role in plant leaf development by regulating ROS homeostasis.
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Overexpression of KLF14 protects against immune-mediated hepatic injury in mice. J Transl Med 2019; 99:37-47. [PMID: 30254317 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-018-0134-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The underlying immunopathogenic mechanisms of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have not yet been well elucidated. An impairment in regulatory T cells (Tregs) is key to the development of AIH. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) regulate a broad of cellular processes including immunocyte maturation. KLF14 may regulate Treg differentiation, but the biological functions remain far from elucidated. In this study, we identified the hepatic expression of KLF14 in human and murine liver diseases. Immune-mediated hepatitis was induced by concanavalin A (Con A). A KLF14 recombinant adenoviruses plasmid (Ad-KLF14) was constructed and injected into mice. Tregs were assessed by flow cytometry analysis; inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of KLF14 was suppressed in a time-and dose-dependent manner. Changes in cytokine levels were consistent with the degree of hepatic injury. Overexpression of KLF14 protected the liver from immune-mediated damage in vivo. Ad-KLF14 transfection before Con A challenge increased the frequency of Tregs in liver mononuclear cells (MNCs), and suppressed the expression of cytokines. All of these improvements were completely abrogated after Treg deletion in vivo by intraperitoneal injection of a CD25 antibody. In conclusion, these data suggest that KLF14 plays an as-yet unrecognized role in immune-mediated hepatitis mainly via induced Treg differentiation. Our findings extend the knowledge of the biological function of KLF14 to the autoimmune disease field, and indicate the possibility of KLF14 as a therapeutic target in AIH patients.
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The Protective Effect of Sheep Placental Extract on Concanavalin A-induced Liver Injury in Mice. Molecules 2018; 24:molecules24010028. [PMID: 30577642 PMCID: PMC6337385 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Though the biological effects of human placental extract have been widely studied, it has limited availability and its use poses ethical problems. Thus, domestic animal placental extracts are suggested as alternatives. In this study, the protective effect of sheep placental extract (SPE) on concanavalin A (Con A)-induced liver injury was investigated. BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups, including one normal group and five experimental groups, which received different oral doses of SPE (0, 5, 10 and 50 mg/kg) or a mixture of amino acids for 3 days before Con A injection. Compared with Con A-induced model group, the SPE administration significantly decreased serum aminotransaminase activity, alleviated pathological changes, recovered liver antioxidant capacity and prevented the increase of nitric oxide. Secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum decreased and mRNA expression of hepatic intercellular adhesion molecule-1, interferon-inducible chemokine 10 and inducible nitric oxide synthase were downregulated, while B-cell lymphoma-2 expression increased. The administration of amino acids mixture had no significant effect in most measurements compared with the model group, which indicated proteins and peptides, rather than individual amino acid, were largely responsible for the bioactivity of SPE. The results indicate SPE has potential therapeutic effects against immune-mediated hepatitis.
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Xia G, Wu S, Wang X, Fu M. Inhibition of microRNA-155 attenuates concanavalin-A-induced autoimmune hepatitis by regulating Treg/Th17 cell differentiation. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2018; 96:1293-1300. [PMID: 30290123 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2018-0467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic progressive autoimmune disease characterized by hepatic inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of antagomir-155 on concanavalin A (ConA)-induced AIH, and its possible mechanisms. According to the results, the expression of miR-155 was raised in liver tissues after 48 h exposure to ConA. Treatment with antagomir-155 attenuated ConA-induced liver injury in mice by reducing serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase levels. In addition, antagomir-155 significantly alleviated the differentiation of Treg/Th17 cells in the livers of AIH mice, and suppressed Th17-cells-mediated production of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-17A, IL-23, but not Treg-cells-mediated production of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Finally, the beneficial effect of antagomir-155 on ConA-induced AIH was abolished by administration of recombinant IL-17A. Our data demonstrated that antagomir-155 treatment could prevent AIH via regulating the differentiation of Treg and Th17 cells, suggesting that microRNA-155 may be an intriguing therapeutic target of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangtao Xia
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sensen Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Fu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, People’s Republic of China
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Upadhyay KK, Jadeja RN, Thadani JM, Joshi A, Vohra A, Mevada V, Patel R, Khurana S, Devkar RV. Carbon monoxide releasing molecule A-1 attenuates acetaminophen-mediated hepatotoxicity and improves survival of mice by induction of Nrf2 and related genes. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2018; 360:99-108. [PMID: 30273691 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2018.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Acute liver injury is frequently associated with oxidative stress. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of carbon monoxide releasing molecule A-1 (CORM A-1) in oxidative stress-mediated liver injury. Overnight-fasted mice were injected with acetaminophen (APAP; 300 mg/kg; intraperitoneally) and were sacrificed at 4 and 12 h. They showed elevated levels of serum transaminases, depleted hepatic glutathione (GSH) and hepatocyte necrosis. Mice injected with CORM A-1 (20 mg/kg) 1 h after APAP administration, had reduced serum transaminases, preserved hepatic GSH and reduced hepatocyte necrosis. Mice that received a lethal dose of APAP (600 mg/kg), died by 10 h; but those co-treated with CORM A-1 showed a 50% survival. Compared to APAP-treated mice, livers from those co-treated with CORM A-1, had upregulation of Nrf2 and ARE genes (HO-1, GCLM and NQO-1). APAP-treated mice had elevated hepatic mRNA levels of inflammatory genes (Nf-κB, TNF-α, IL1-β and IL-6), an effect blunted in those co-treated with CORM A-1. In tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-treated HepG2 cells, CORM A-1 augmented cell viability, reduced oxidative stress, activated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and anti-oxidant response element (ARE) genes. The molecular docking profile of CO in the kelch domain of Keap1 protein suggested that CO released from CORM A-1 mediated Nrf2 activation. Collectively, these data indicate that CORM A-1 reduces oxidative stress by upregulating Nrf2 and related genes, and restoring hepatic GSH, to reduce hepatocyte necrosis and thus minimize liver injury that contributes to an overall improved survival rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kapil K Upadhyay
- Phytotherapeutics and Metabolic Endocrinology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002, India
| | - Ravirajsinh N Jadeja
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912,USA
| | - Jaymesh M Thadani
- Phytotherapeutics and Metabolic Endocrinology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002, India
| | - Apeksha Joshi
- Phytotherapeutics and Metabolic Endocrinology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002, India
| | - Aliasgar Vohra
- Phytotherapeutics and Metabolic Endocrinology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002, India
| | - Vishal Mevada
- Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University, Patan, Gujarat 384265, India
| | - Rajesh Patel
- Bioinformatics and Supercomputer lab, Department of Biosciences, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat, Gujarat 395007, India
| | - Sandeep Khurana
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and Weight Management, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA 17822, USA
| | - Ranjitsinh V Devkar
- Phytotherapeutics and Metabolic Endocrinology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002, India.
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An Overview of the Potential Therapeutic Applications of CO-Releasing Molecules. Bioinorg Chem Appl 2018; 2018:8547364. [PMID: 30158958 PMCID: PMC6109489 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8547364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon monoxide (CO) has long been known as the “silent killer” owing to its ability to form carboxyhemoglobin—the main cause of CO poisoning in humans. Its role as an endogenous neurotransmitter, however, was suggested in the early 1990s. Since then, the biological activity of CO has been widely examined via both the direct administration of CO and in the form of so-called “carbon monoxide releasing molecules (CORMs).” This overview will explore the general physiological effects and potential therapeutic applications of CO when delivered in the form of CORMs.
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Fagone P, Mazzon E, Bramanti P, Bendtzen K, Nicoletti F. Gasotransmitters and the immune system: Mode of action and novel therapeutic targets. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 834:92-102. [PMID: 30016662 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gasotransmitters are a group of gaseous molecules, with pleiotropic biological functions. These molecules include nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and carbon monoxide (CO). Abnormal production and metabolism of these molecules have been observed in several pathological conditions. The understanding of the role of gasotransmitters in the immune system has grown significantly in the past years, and independent studies have shed light on the effect of exogenous and endogenous gasotransmitters on immune responses. Moreover, encouraging results come from the efficacy of NO-, CO- and H2S -donors in preclinical animal models of autoimmune, acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. To date, data on the influence of gasotransmitters in immunity and immunopathology are often scattered and partial, and the scarcity of clinical trials using NO-, CO- and H2S -donors, reveals that more effort is warranted. This review focuses on the role of gasotransmitters in the immune system and covers the evidences on the possible use of gasotransmitters for the treatment of inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Stada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Stada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Klaus Bendtzen
- Institute for Inflammation Research, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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