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Ma J, Wang W, Zhang W, Xu D, Ding J, Wang F, Peng X, Wang D, Li Y. The recent advances in cell delivery approaches, biochemical and engineering procedures of cell therapy applied to coronary heart disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 169:115870. [PMID: 37952359 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115870] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy is an important topic in the field of regeneration medicine that is gaining attention within the scientific community. However, its potential for treatment in coronary heart disease (CHD) has yet to be established. Several various strategies, types of cells, routes of distribution, and supporting procedures have been tried and refined to trigger heart rejuvenation in CHD. However, only a few of them result in a real considerable promise for clinical usage. In this review, we give an update on techniques and clinical studies of cell treatment as used to cure CHD that are now ongoing or have been completed in the previous five years. We also highlight the emerging efficacy of stem cell treatment for CHD. We specifically examine and comment on current breakthroughs in cell treatment applied to CHD, including the most effective types of cells, transport modalities, engineering, and biochemical approaches used in this context. We believe the current review will be helpful for the researcher to distill this information and design future studies to overcome the challenges faced by this revolutionary approach for CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingru Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 13000, China
| | - Wenhai Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Dexin Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Jian Ding
- Department of Electrodiagnosis, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Xia Peng
- Department of Cardiology, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Dahai Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Jilin Province FAW General Hospital, Changchun 130000, China
| | - Yanwei Li
- Department of General Practice and Family Medicine, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, China.
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2
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Protective Effects of Human Pericyte-like Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Human Retinal Endothelial Cells in an In Vitro Model of Diabetic Retinopathy: Evidence for Autologous Cell Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020913. [PMID: 36674425 PMCID: PMC9860961 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is characterized by morphologic and metabolic alterations in endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes (PCs) of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB). The loss of interendothelial junctions, increased vascular permeability, microaneurysms, and finally, EC detachment are the main features of DR. In this scenario, a pivotal role is played by the extensive loss of PCs. Based on previous results, the aim of this study was to assess possible beneficial effects exerted by adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) and their pericyte-like differentiated phenotype (P-ASCs) on human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) in high glucose conditions (25 mM glucose, HG). P-ASCs were more able to preserve BRB integrity than ASCs in terms of (a) increased transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER); (b) increased expression of adherens junction and tight junction proteins (VE-cadherin and ZO-1); (c) reduction in mRNA levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and MMP-9; (d) reduction in the angiogenic factor VEGF and in fibrotic TGF-β1. Moreover, P-ASCs counteracted the HG-induced activation of the pro-inflammatory phospho-ERK1/2/phospho-cPLA2/COX-2 pathway. Finally, crosstalk between HRECs and ASCs or P-ASCs based on the PDGF-B/PDGFR-β axis at the mRNA level is described herein. Thus, P-ASCs might be considered valuable candidates for therapeutic approaches aimed at countering BRB disruption in DR.
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3
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Mirza A, Khan I, Qazi REM, Salim A, Husain M, Herzig JW. Role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in cardiac lineage commitment of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells by zebularine and 2'-deoxycytidine. Tissue Cell 2022; 77:101850. [PMID: 35679684 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.101850] [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: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin, a highly conserved signaling pathway, is involved in determining cell fate. During heart development, Wnt signaling controls specification, proliferation and differentiation of cardiac cells. This study is aimed to investigate the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cardiac lineage commitment of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) after treatment with demethylating agents, zebularine and 2'-deoxycytidine (2-DC). hUCMSCs were treated with 20 µM zebularine or 2-DC for 24 h and cultured for 14 days. Control and treated MSCs were analyzed for cardiac lineage commitment at gene and protein levels. Significant upregulation of early and late cardiac markers, GATA4, Nkx2.5, cardiac myosin heavy chain (cMHC), α-actinin, cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) was observed in treated MSCs as compared to the untreated control. We also analyzed gene expression of key Wnt/β-catenin signaling molecules in cultures of treated and untreated hUCMSCs at 24 h, and days 3, 7 and 14. The pattern of mRNA gene expression showed that Wnt/β-catenin signaling is regulated during cardiac lineage commitment of hUCMSCs in a time-dependent manner, with the pathway being activated early but inhibited later in cardiac development. Findings of this study can lead us to identify more specific and effective strategies for cardiac lineage commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Mirza
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Irfan Khan
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Rida-E-Maria Qazi
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Asmat Salim
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan.
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4
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Zullo A, Mancini FP, Schleip R, Wearing S, Klingler W. Fibrosis: Sirtuins at the checkpoints of myofibroblast differentiation and profibrotic activity. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:650-666. [PMID: 34077595 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are still a serious concern for public health, due to their high prevalence, complex etiology and lack of successful treatments. Fibrosis consists of excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components. As a result, the structure and function of tissues are impaired, thus potentially leading to organ failure and death in several chronic diseases. Myofibroblasts represent the principal cellular mediators of fibrosis, due to their extracellular matrix producing activity, and originate from different types of precursor cells, such as mesenchymal cells, epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Profibrotic activation of myofibroblasts can be triggered by a variety of mechanisms, including the transforming growth factor-β signalling pathway, which is a major factor driving fibrosis. Interestingly, preclinical and clinical studies showed that fibrotic degeneration can stop and even reverse by using specific antifibrotic treatments. Increasing scientific evidence is being accumulated about the role of sirtuins in modulating the molecular pathways responsible for the onset and development of fibrotic diseases. Sirtuins are NAD+ -dependent protein deacetylases that play a crucial role in several molecular pathways within the cells, many of which at the crossroad between health and disease. In this context, we will report the current knowledge supporting the role of sirtuins in the balance between healthy and diseased myofibroblast activity. In particular, we will address the signalling pathways and the molecular targets that trigger the differentiation and profibrotic activation of myofibroblasts and can be modulated by sirtuins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Zullo
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, Benevento, Italy.,CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies s.c.a.r.l. Naples, Italy
| | | | - Robert Schleip
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Germany.,Fascia Research Group, Department of Neurosurgery, Ulm University, Germany.,Diploma University of Applied Sciences, Bad Sooden-Allendorf, Germany
| | - Scott Wearing
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Germany.,Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Werner Klingler
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Germany.,Fascia Research Group, Department of Neurosurgery, Ulm University, Germany.,Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Anaesthesiology, SRH Hospital Sigmaringen, Germany
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5
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Zullo L, Bozzo M, Daya A, Di Clemente A, Mancini FP, Megighian A, Nesher N, Röttinger E, Shomrat T, Tiozzo S, Zullo A, Candiani S. The Diversity of Muscles and Their Regenerative Potential across Animals. Cells 2020; 9:cells9091925. [PMID: 32825163 PMCID: PMC7563492 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells with contractile functions are present in almost all metazoans, and so are the related processes of muscle homeostasis and regeneration. Regeneration itself is a complex process unevenly spread across metazoans that ranges from full-body regeneration to partial reconstruction of damaged organs or body tissues, including muscles. The cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in regenerative processes can be homologous, co-opted, and/or evolved independently. By comparing the mechanisms of muscle homeostasis and regeneration throughout the diversity of animal body-plans and life cycles, it is possible to identify conserved and divergent cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying muscle plasticity. In this review we aim at providing an overview of muscle regeneration studies in metazoans, highlighting the major regenerative strategies and molecular pathways involved. By gathering these findings, we wish to advocate a comparative and evolutionary approach to prompt a wider use of “non-canonical” animal models for molecular and even pharmacological studies in the field of muscle regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Zullo
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Micro-BioRobotics & Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology (NSYN), 16132 Genova, Italy;
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.Z.); (A.Z.)
| | - Matteo Bozzo
- Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 5, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Alon Daya
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, Michmoret 40297, Israel; (A.D.); (N.N.); (T.S.)
| | - Alessio Di Clemente
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Center for Micro-BioRobotics & Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology (NSYN), 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | | | - Aram Megighian
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Nir Nesher
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, Michmoret 40297, Israel; (A.D.); (N.N.); (T.S.)
| | - Eric Röttinger
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging (IRCAN), Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, 06107 Nice, France;
| | - Tal Shomrat
- Faculty of Marine Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, Michmoret 40297, Israel; (A.D.); (N.N.); (T.S.)
| | - Stefano Tiozzo
- Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-Mer (LBDV), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 06230 Paris, France;
| | - Alberto Zullo
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.Z.); (A.Z.)
| | - Simona Candiani
- Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 5, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.B.); (S.C.)
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Ceccarelli S, Pontecorvi P, Anastasiadou E, Napoli C, Marchese C. Immunomodulatory Effect of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: The Cutting Edge of Clinical Application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:236. [PMID: 32363193 PMCID: PMC7180192 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) represent a promising tool for soft tissue engineering as well as for clinical treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune pathologies. The well-characterized multi-differentiation potential and self-renewal properties of ASCs are coupled with their immunomodulatory ability in providing therapeutic efficacy. Yet, their impact in immune or inflammatory disorders might rely both on cell contact-dependent mechanisms and paracrine effects, resulting in the release of various soluble factors that regulate immune cells functions. Despite the widespread use of ASCs in clinical trials addressing several pathologies, the pathophysiological mechanisms at the basis of their clinical use have been not yet fully investigated. In particular, a thorough analysis of ASC immunomodulatory potential is mandatory. Here we explore such molecular mechanisms involved in ASC immunomodulatory properties, emphasizing the relevance of the milieu composition. We review the potential clinical use of ASC secretome as a mediator for immunomodulation, with a focus on in vitro and in vivo environmental conditions affecting clinical outcome. We describe some potential strategies for optimization of ASCs immunomodulatory capacity in clinical settings, which act either on adult stem cells gene expression and local microenvironment. Finally, we discuss the limitations of both allogeneic and autologous ASC use, highlighting the issues to be fixed in order to significantly improve the efficacy of ASC-based cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Ceccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Pontecorvi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleni Anastasiadou
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- Clinical Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Department of Advanced Clinical and Surgical Sciences, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy
| | - Cinzia Marchese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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7
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De Pascale MR, Della Mura N, Vacca M, Napoli C. Useful applications of growth factors for cardiovascular regenerative medicine. Growth Factors 2020; 38:35-63. [PMID: 33028111 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2020.1825410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Novel advances for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) include regenerative approaches for fibrosis, hypertrophy, and neoangiogenesis. Studies indicate that growth factor (GF) signaling could promote heart repair since most of the evidence is derived from preclinical models. Observational studies have evaluated GF serum/plasma levels as feasible biomarkers for risk stratification of CVDs. Noteworthy, two clinical interventional published studies showed that the administration of growth factors (GFs) induced beneficial effect on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), myocardial perfusion, end-systolic volume index (ESVI). To date, large scale ongoing studies are in Phase I-II and mostly focussed on intramyocardial (IM), intracoronary (IC) or intravenous (IV) administration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) which result in the most investigated GFs in the last 10 years. Future data of ongoing randomized controlled studies will be crucial in understanding whether GF-based protocols could be in a concrete way effective in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michele Vacca
- Division of Immunohematology and Transfusion Medicine, Cardarelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- IRCCS Foundation SDN, Naples, Italy
- Clinical Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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8
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de Nigris F, Cacciatore F, Mancini FP, Vitale DF, Mansueto G, D'Armiento FP, Schiano C, Soricelli A, Napoli C. Epigenetic Hallmarks of Fetal Early Atherosclerotic Lesions in Humans. JAMA Cardiol 2019; 3:1184-1191. [PMID: 30419118 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2018.3546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Importance Although increasingly strong evidence suggests a role of maternal total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) levels during pregnancy as a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease in the offspring, the underlying mechanisms need to be clarified for future clinical applications. Objective To test whether epigenetic signatures characterize early fetal atherogenesis associated with maternal hypercholesterolemia and to provide a quantitative estimate of the contribution of maternal cholesterol level to fetal lesion size. Design, Setting, and Participants This autopsy study analyzed 78 human fetal aorta autopsy samples from the Division of Human Pathology, Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy. Maternal levels of total cholesterol, LDLC, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC), triglycerides, and glucose and body mass index (BMI) were determined during hospitalization owing to spontaneous fetal death. Data were collected and immediately processed and analyzed to prevent degradation from January 1, 2011, through November 30, 2016. Main Outcomes and Measurements Results of DNA methylation and messenger RNA levels of the following genes involved in cholesterol metabolism were assessed: superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2), liver X receptor α (LXRα), and adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter 1 (ABCA1). Results Among the 78 fetal samples included in the analysis (59% male; mean [SD] fetal age, 25 [3] weeks), maternal cholesterol level explained a significant proportion of the fetal aortic lesion variance in multivariate analysis (61%; P = .001) independently by the effect of levels of HDLC, triglycerides, and glucose and BMI. Moreover, maternal total cholesterol and LDLC levels were positively associated with methylation of SREBP2 in fetal aortas (Pearson correlation, 0.488 and 0.503, respectively), whereas in univariate analysis, they were inversely correlated with SREBP2 messenger RNA levels in fetal aortas (Pearson correlation, -0.534 and -0.671, respectively). Epivariations of genes controlling cholesterol metabolism in cholesterol-treated human aortic endothelial cells were also observed. Conclusions and Relevance The present study provides a stringent quantitative estimate of the magnitude of the association of maternal cholesterol levels during pregnancy with fetal aortic lesions and reveals the epigenetic response of fetal aortic SREBP2 to maternal cholesterol level. The role of maternal cholesterol level during pregnancy and epigenetic signature in offspring in cardiovascular primary prevention warrants further long-term causal relationship studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena de Nigris
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Cacciatore
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy.,Epidemiology Section, Maugeri Foundation, Telese Terme, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco P Mancini
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Dino F Vitale
- Epidemiology Section, Maugeri Foundation, Telese Terme, Italy
| | - Gelsomina Mansueto
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco P D'Armiento
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Schiano
- Institute of Diagnostic and Nuclear Research, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Soricelli
- Institute of Diagnostic and Nuclear Research, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- Institute of Diagnostic and Nuclear Research, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Naples, Italy.,Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Aging and Metabolic Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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9
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Gronda E, Sacchi S, Benincasa G, Vanoli E, Napoli C. Unresolved issues in left ventricular postischemic remodeling and progression to heart failure. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2019; 20:640-649. [DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000000834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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10
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Motor control pathways in the nervous system of Octopus vulgaris arm. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2019; 205:271-279. [PMID: 30919046 PMCID: PMC6478645 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-019-01332-6] [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: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The octopus’s arms have virtually infinite degrees of freedom, providing a unique opportunity for studying movement control in a redundant motor system. Here, we investigated the organization of the connections between the brain and arms through the cerebrobrachial tracts (CBT). To do this, we analyzed the neuronal activity associated with the contraction of a small muscle strand left connected at the middle of a long isolated CBT. Both electrical activity in the CBT and muscle contraction could be induced at low threshold values irrespective of stimulus direction and distance from the muscle strand. This suggests that axons associated with transmitting motor commands run along the CBT and innervate a large pool of motor neurons en passant. This type of innervation implies that central and peripheral motor commands involve the simultaneous recruitment of large groups of motor neurons along the arm as required, for example, in arm stiffening, and that the site of movement initiation along the arm may be determined through a unique interplay between global central commands and local sensory signals.
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11
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Sommese L, Benincasa G, Lanza M, Sorriento A, Schiano C, Lucchese R, Alfano R, Nicoletti GF, Napoli C. Novel epigenetic-sensitive clinical challenges both in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Complications 2018; 32:1076-1084. [PMID: 30190170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2018.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetics modulated tissue-specific gene expression during the onset of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and their complications. METHODS We searched the PubMed recent studies about the main epigenetic tags involved in type 1 and type 2 diabetes onset and their clinical complications. PubMed studies about the epigenetic tags involved in type 1 and 2 diabetes onset was searched. RESULTS The epigenetic methylation maps of cord blood samples highlighted differences in the methylation status of CpG sites within the MHC genes between carriers of diabetes type 1 DR3-DQ2 and DR4-DQ8 risk haplotypes. β cell-derived unmethylated INS DNA showed the decline of β-cell mass preserving insulin secretion. Differentially methylated regions in pancreatic islets from type 2 diabetes covered PDX1, TCF7L2, and ADCY5 promoters during islet dysfunction. The recruitment of SET7 and SUV39H1 histone methyltransferases and LSD-1 lysine-specific demethylase-1 at NF-kβ-p65 promoter in vascular cells was involved in coronary heart disease. Neutrophil extracellular trap, activated by protein arginine deiminase-4, impaired wound healing from diabetic foot ulcers. MiR-199a-3p over-expression induced coagulative cascade, swelling and pain by a down-regulation of SERPIN-E2 in diabetic peripheral neuropathy. A DNA hypo-methylation and histone hyper-acetylation at MIOX promoter led an overexpression of ROS, fibronectin, HIF-1α, and NOX-4 associated with diabetic tubulopathy. A hypo-methylation of H3K4 at SOD2 promoter by LSD-1 increased ROS causing diabetic retinopathy. CONCLUSIONS Epigenetics played a relevant role in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes.
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MESH Headings
- Biomarkers/analysis
- DNA Methylation/physiology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/complications
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/diagnosis
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/therapy
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/diagnosis
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/therapy
- Diabetic Foot/genetics
- Epigenesis, Genetic/physiology
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Genome-Wide Association Study
- Humans
- Precision Medicine/methods
- Precision Medicine/trends
- Promoter Regions, Genetic/drug effects
- Promoter Regions, Genetic/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Sommese
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy.
| | - Giuditta Benincasa
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Michele Lanza
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Sorriento
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Lucchese
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberto Alfano
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Francesco Nicoletti
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy; Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
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12
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Vasco M, Paolillo R, Schiano C, Sommese L, Cuomo O, Napoli C. Compromised nutritional status in patients with end-stage liver disease: Role of gut microbiota. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2018; 17:290-300. [PMID: 30173786 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) have a compromised nutritional status because of the liver crucial role in regulating metabolic homeostasis and energy balance. DATA SOURCES A systematic review of literature based on extensive relevant articles published from 2001 to 2017 in English in PubMed database was performed by searching keywords such as liver disease, non-alcoholic liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, malnutrition, epigenetics, gut microbiota, and probiotics. RESULTS Liver transplantation would be one eligible therapy for ESLD patients, even if, the clinical outcome is negatively influenced by malnutrition and/or infections. The malnutrition is a condition of nutrient imbalance with a high incidence in ESLD patients. An accurate evaluation of nutritional status could be fundamental for reducing complications and prolonging the survival of ESLD patients including those undergoing liver transplantation. In addition, the interaction among nutrients, diet and genes via epigenetics has emerged as a potential target to reduce the morbidity and mortality in ESLD patients. The malnutrition induces changes in gut microbiota causing dysbiosis with a probable translocation of bacteria and/or pathogen-derived factors from the intestine to the liver. Gut microbiota contribute to the progression of chronic liver diseases as well as hepatocellular carcinoma. The administration of probiotics modulating gut microbiota could improve all chronic liver diseases. CONCLUSIONS This review provides an update on malnutrition status linked to epigenetics and the potential benefit of some probiotics on the management of ESLD patients. In support of this view and to reveal the constant and growing interest in this field, some clinical trials are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vasco
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Rossella Paolillo
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy
| | | | - Linda Sommese
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy.
| | - Oreste Cuomo
- Department of Liver Transplant, AORN A. Cardarelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy; IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy; Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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13
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Cacciatore F, Amarelli C, Ferrara N, Della Valle E, Curcio F, Liguori I, Bosco Q, Maiello C, Napoli C, Bonaduce D, Abete P. Protective effect of physical activity on mortality in older adults with advanced chronic heart failure: A prospective observational study. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2018; 26:481-488. [DOI: 10.1177/2047487318790822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect on mortality of self-reported physical activity evaluated by the physical activity scale for the elderly (PASE) in elderly patients with advanced heart failure enrolled in a cardiac rehabilitation unit after heart failure decompensation (NYHA class IIIB). Methods The study prospectively enrolled 314 elderly patients (≥65 years) with heart failure in NYHA class IIIB (symptomatic with a recent history of dyspnoea at rest) consecutively admitted to cardiac rehabilitation between January 2010 and July 2011. Comprehensive geriatric assessment was performed. Physical activity was evaluated by PASE and stratified in tertiles (0–15, 16–75 and >75). Mortality was collected from September to October 2015 in 300 patients. Results The mean age was 74.5 ± 6.1 (range 65–89); 74.7% were men, 132 patients (44.0%) died during the follow-up (44.1 ± 20.7 months). Univariate analysis shows that physical activity level conducted before heart failure decompensation was inversely related to mortality (from 76.0% to 8.2%, P = 0.000). Multivariate analysis confirms that the PASE score predicts mortality independently of several demographic and clinical variables (hazard rate 0.987, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.980–0.994, P = 0.000). Notably, when considering PASE 0–15 versus 16–75 score and PASE 0–15 versus > 75 score, the hazard rate is 4.06 (95% CI 1.67–9.84, P < 0.001) and 7.25 (95% CI 2.7–19.5, P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusions Physical activity level evaluated by the PASE score is inversely related to mortality in elderly patients with advanced heart failure confirming the reduction of mortality exerted by moderate physical activity in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Cacciatore
- Laboratory for the Assessment of Clinical Complexity, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri Spa SB, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy
- Division of Cardiac Transplantation and Mechanical Assistance, AORN Monaldi Hospital, Italy
| | - Cristiano Amarelli
- Division of Cardiac Transplantation and Mechanical Assistance, AORN Monaldi Hospital, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferrara
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Curcio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy
| | - Ilaria Liguori
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy
| | - Quirino Bosco
- Laboratory for the Assessment of Clinical Complexity, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri Spa SB, Italy
| | - Ciro Maiello
- Division of Cardiac Transplantation and Mechanical Assistance, AORN Monaldi Hospital, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Aging and Metabolic Sciences, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Italy
- Istituto di Ricerca Diagnostica e Nucleare, IRCCS-SDN, Piazza Amedeo, 9-Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Bonaduce
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy
| | - Pasquale Abete
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy
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14
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Grimaldi V, Zullo A, Donatelli F, Mancini FP, Cacciatore F, Napoli C. Potential clinical benefits of cell therapy in coronary heart disease: an update. J Thorac Dis 2018; 10:S2412-S2422. [PMID: 30123579 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2018.04.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cell therapy is a central issue of regenerative medicine and is raising a growing interest in the scientific community, but its full therapeutic potential in coronary heart disease (CHD) has not been reached yet. Several different methods, cell types, delivery routes, and supporting techniques have been attempted and improved to elicit cardiac regeneration in CHD, but only some of them showed a really convincing potential for the use in clinical practice. Here we provide an update on approaches and clinical trials of cell therapy applied to CHD, which are ongoing or that have been realized in the last 5 years. Moreover, we discuss the evidence collected so far in favor or against the validity of stem cell therapy for CHD. In particular, we review and comment the recent advances in cell therapy applied to CHD, the most promising cell types, delivery strategies, biochemical and engineering techniques that have been adopted in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Grimaldi
- U.O.C. Division of Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Alberto Zullo
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy.,CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Donatelli
- Department of Clinical and Community Sciences University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Cardiac Surgery, Ospedale Monaldi, Azienda dei Colli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Cacciatore
- Department of Clinical and Community Sciences University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Department of Cardiac Surgery, Ospedale Monaldi, Azienda dei Colli, 80131 Naples, Italy.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, "Federico II" University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy.,Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, IRCCS, Telese Terme, Benevento, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- U.O.C. Division of Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.,Institute of Diagnostic and Nuclear Development (SDN), IRCCS, Naples, Italy
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15
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Muto C, Solimene F, Russo V, Nigro G, Rago A, Chianese R, Chiariello P, Ciardiello C, Caliendo L. Optimal left ventricular lead placement for cardiac resynchronization therapy in postmyocardial infarction patients. Future Cardiol 2018; 14:215-224. [PMID: 29767542 DOI: 10.2217/fca-2017-0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate at a 12-month follow-up, the clinical and echocardiographic outcomes in postmyocardial infarction (MI) heart failure patients who underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device implantation. MATERIALS & METHODS A total of 100 patients received a CRT device, and the study population was divided into three groups, according to the site of MI and left ventricular (LV) lead placed downstream of the ischemic area, as evaluated by echocardiography. RESULTS At the end of the 12-month follow-up, we reported a general improvement of LV ejection fraction from 28 ± 7% to 35 ± 9% (p < 0.001) and a significant reverse remodeling: LV end-systolic volume changed from 147 ± 54 to 125 ± 63 (p = 0.001) with a 53% of echocardiographic responders. We also observed 67% of CRT responders in the group with optimal LV lead placement compared with 38% in the remaining population (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION The optimal positioning of LV lead is a feasible method to improve the percentage of CRT responders in post-MI heart failure patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmine Muto
- Cardiologia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Pietà, Nola, Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesco Solimene
- Elttrostimolazione ed Elettrofisiologia, Casa Di Cura Montevergine, Mercogliano, Avellino, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Russo
- Chair of Cardiology, Cardiologia, Second University of Naples, Monaldi Hospital - Napoli, Italy
| | - Gerardo Nigro
- Chair of Cardiology, Cardiologia, Second University of Naples, Monaldi Hospital - Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Rago
- Chair of Cardiology, Cardiologia, Second University of Naples, Monaldi Hospital - Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Paola Chiariello
- Cardiologia, Ospedale Santa Maria dell'Olmo, Cava de'Tirreni, Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Caliendo
- Cardiologia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Pietà, Nola, Napoli, Italy
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16
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Genetic and Epigenetic Control of CDKN1C Expression: Importance in Cell Commitment and Differentiation, Tissue Homeostasis and Human Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19041055. [PMID: 29614816 PMCID: PMC5979523 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The CDKN1C gene encodes the p57Kip2 protein which has been identified as the third member of the CIP/Kip family, also including p27Kip1 and p21Cip1. In analogy with these proteins, p57Kip2 is able to bind tightly and inhibit cyclin/cyclin-dependent kinase complexes and, in turn, modulate cell division cycle progression. For a long time, the main function of p57Kip2 has been associated only to correct embryogenesis, since CDKN1C-ablated mice are not vital. Accordingly, it has been demonstrated that CDKN1C alterations cause three human hereditary syndromes, characterized by altered growth rate. Subsequently, the p57Kip2 role in several cell phenotypes has been clearly assessed as well as its down-regulation in human cancers. CDKN1C lies in a genetic locus, 11p15.5, characterized by a remarkable regional imprinting that results in the transcription of only the maternal allele. The control of CDKN1C transcription is also linked to additional mechanisms, including DNA methylation and specific histone methylation/acetylation. Finally, long non-coding RNAs and miRNAs appear to play important roles in controlling p57Kip2 levels. This review mostly represents an appraisal of the available data regarding the control of CDKN1C gene expression. In addition, the structure and function of p57Kip2 protein are briefly described and correlated to human physiology and diseases.
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17
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Hulmi JJ, Nissinen TA, Räsänen M, Degerman J, Lautaoja JH, Hemanthakumar KA, Backman JT, Ritvos O, Silvennoinen M, Kivelä R. Prevention of chemotherapy-induced cachexia by ACVR2B ligand blocking has different effects on heart and skeletal muscle. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2018; 9:417-432. [PMID: 29230965 PMCID: PMC5879968 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxicity of chemotherapy on skeletal muscles and the heart may significantly contribute to cancer cachexia, mortality, and decreased quality of life. Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective cytostatic agent, which unfortunately has toxic effects on many healthy tissues. Blocking of activin receptor type IIB (ACVR2B) ligands is an often used strategy to prevent skeletal muscle loss, but its effects on the heart are relatively unknown. METHODS The effects of DOX treatment with or without pre-treatment with soluble ACVR2B-Fc (sACVR2B-Fc) were investigated. The mice were randomly assigned into one of the three groups: (1) vehicle (PBS)-treated controls, (2) DOX-treated mice (DOX), and (3) DOX-treated mice administered with sACVR2B-Fc during the experiment (DOX + sACVR2B-Fc). DOX was administered with a cumulative dose of 24 mg/kg during 2 weeks to investigate cachexia outcome in the heart and skeletal muscle. To understand similarities and differences between skeletal and cardiac muscles in their responses to chemotherapy, the tissues were collected 20 h after a single DOX (15 mg/kg) injection and analysed with genome-wide transcriptomics and mRNA and protein analyses. The combination group was pre-treated with sACVR2B-Fc 48 h before DOX administration. Major findings were also studied in mice receiving only sACVR2B-Fc. RESULTS The DOX treatment induced similar (~10%) wasting in skeletal muscle and the heart. However, transcriptional changes in response to DOX were much greater in skeletal muscle. Pathway analysis and unbiased transcription factor analysis showed that p53-p21-REDD1 is the main common pathway activated by DOX in both skeletal and cardiac muscles. These changes were attenuated by blocking ACVR2B ligands especially in skeletal muscle. Tceal7 (3-fold to 5-fold increase), transferrin receptor (1.5-fold increase), and Ccl21 (0.6-fold to 0.9-fold decrease) were identified as novel genes responsive to blocking ACVR2B ligands. Overall, at the transcriptome level, ACVR2B ligand blocking had only minor influence in the heart while it had marked effects in skeletal muscle. The same was also true for the effects on tissue wasting. This may be explained in part by about 18-fold higher gene expression of myostatin in skeletal muscle compared with the heart. CONCLUSIONS Cardiac and skeletal muscles display similar atrophy after DOX treatment, but the mechanisms for this may differ between the tissues. The present results suggest that p53-p21-REDD1 signalling is the main common DOX-activated pathway in these tissues and that blocking activin receptor ligands attenuates this response, especially in skeletal muscle supporting the overall stronger effects of this treatment in skeletal muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juha J Hulmi
- Biology of Physical Activity, Neuromuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuuli A Nissinen
- Biology of Physical Activity, Neuromuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Markus Räsänen
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Joni Degerman
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juulia H Lautaoja
- Biology of Physical Activity, Neuromuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Karthik Amudhala Hemanthakumar
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Janne T Backman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Silvennoinen
- Biology of Physical Activity, Neuromuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Riikka Kivelä
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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18
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Zullo A, Simone E, Grimaldi M, Gagliardi M, Zullo L, Matarazzo MR, Mancini FP. Effect of nutrient deprivation on the expression and the epigenetic signature of sirtuin genes. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2018; 28:418-424. [PMID: 29499851 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Over the last decades advances in understanding the molecular bases of the close relationship between nutrition, metabolism, and diseases have been impressive. However, there are always novel frontiers coming up and epigenetics is one of these. Sirtuins, are pivotal factors in the control of metabolic pathways according to nutrient availability. In the present study we evaluated the effect of nutrient deprivation on expression, DNA methylation and chromatin status of the sirtuin genes. METHODS AND RESULTS We performed these studies in mouse hepatoma cells, that were grown in standard medium, or in media containing low glucose concentration, or no glucose, or no amino acids. We applied quantitative real-time PCR to cDNA, methylation-enriched DNA and nuclease-treated DNA in order to evaluate gene expression, DNA methylation, and chromatin condensation, respectively. This study shows that the expression of sirtuin genes varies following nutrient deprivation. Moreover, we observed that changes of DNA methylation and chromatin condensation occur at the transcription start site of sirtuin genes following nutrient deprivation. CONCLUSIONS Epigenetic mechanisms may have a role in the sirtuin response to nutrient deprivations in cultured hepatoma cells. Replicating these results in vivo to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the epigenetic control of sirtuin expression following nutrient deprivations might open up novel therapeutic possibilities to cure metabolic diseases and promote human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zullo
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy; CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Naples, Italy.
| | - E Simone
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - M Grimaldi
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Gagliardi
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'Adriano Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - L Zullo
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology (NSYN), IIT-Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - M R Matarazzo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'Adriano Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - F P Mancini
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy.
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19
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Zullo A, Simone E, Grimaldi M, Musto V, Mancini FP. Sirtuins as Mediator of the Anti-Ageing Effects of Calorie Restriction in Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E928. [PMID: 29561771 PMCID: PMC5979282 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19040928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fighting diseases and controlling the signs of ageing are the major goals of biomedicine. Sirtuins, enzymes with mainly deacetylating activity, could be pivotal targets of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies to reach such aims. Scientific proofs are accumulating in experimental models, but, to a minor extent, also in humans, that the ancient practice of calorie restriction could prove an effective way to prevent several degenerative diseases and to postpone the detrimental signs of ageing. In the present review, we summarize the evidence about the central role of sirtuins in mediating the beneficial effects of calorie restriction in skeletal and cardiac muscle since these tissues are greatly damaged by diseases and advancing years. Moreover, we entertain the possibility that the identification of sirtuin activators that mimic calorie restriction could provide the benefits without the inconvenience of this dietary style.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Zullo
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy.
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.ar.l., 80145 Naples, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Simone
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Grimaldi
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Charité University Hospital, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Vincenzina Musto
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy.
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20
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Zullo L, Buschiazzo A, Massollo M, Riondato M, Democrito A, Marini C, Benfenati F, Sambuceti G. Small-Animal 18F-FDG PET for Research on Octopus vulgaris: Applications and Future Directions in Invertebrate Neuroscience and Tissue Regeneration. J Nucl Med 2018. [PMID: 29523626 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.117.205393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a method of administering 18F-FDG to the common octopus in order to perform a PET biodistribution assay characterizing glucose metabolism in organs and regenerating tissues. Methods: Seven animals (two of which had a regenerating arm) were anesthetized with 3.7% MgCl2 in artificial seawater and then injected with 18-30 MBq of isosmotic 18F-FDG through either the left branchial heart or the anterior vena cava. After an uptake time of about 50 min, the animals were sacrificed and placed on the bed of a small-animal PET scanner, and 10-min static acquisitions were obtained at 3-4 bed positions to visualize the entire body. To confirm image interpretation, internal organs of interest were collected and counted with a γ-counter. Results: Administration through the anterior vena cava resulted in a good full-body distribution of 18F-FDG as seen on the PET images. Uptake was high in the mantle mass and relatively lower in the arms. In particular, the brain, optic lobes, and arms were clearly identified and were measured for their uptake (SUVmax: 6.57 ± 1.86, 7.59 ± 1.66, and 1.12 ± 0.06, respectively). Interestingly, 18F-FDG uptake was up to 3-fold higher in the highly proliferating areas of regenerating arms. Conclusion: This study represents a stepping-stone to the use of noninvasive functional techniques for addressing questions about invertebrate neuroscience and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Zullo
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ambra Buschiazzo
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Cecilia Marini
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Nuclear Medicine Unit, IRCCS San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), CNR, Milan, Italy; and
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianmario Sambuceti
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Health Science, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Nuclear Medicine Unit, IRCCS San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), CNR, Milan, Italy; and
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21
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Vitucci D, Imperlini E, Arcone R, Alfieri A, Canciello A, Russomando L, Martone D, Cola A, Labruna G, Orrù S, Tafuri D, Mancini A, Buono P. Serum from differently exercised subjects induces myogenic differentiation in LHCN-M2 human myoblasts. J Sports Sci 2017; 36:1630-1639. [PMID: 29160161 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2017.1407232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Myogenesis is the formation of muscle tissue from muscle precursor cells. Physical exercise induces satellite cell activation in muscle. Currently, C2C12 murine myoblast cells are used to study myogenic differentiation. Herein, we evaluated whether human LHCN-M2 myoblasts can differentiate into mature myotubes and express early (myotube formation, creatine kinase activity and myogenin) and late (MyHC-β) muscle-specific markers when cultured in differentiation medium (DM) for 2, 4 and 7 days. We demonstrate that treatment of LHCN-M2 cells with DM supplemented with 0.5% serum from long-term (3 years) differently exercised subjects for 4 days induced myotube formation and significantly increased the early (creatine kinase activity and myogenin) and late (MyHC-β expression) differentiation markers versus cells treated with serum from untrained subjects. Interestingly, serum from aerobic exercised subjects (swimming) had a greater positive effect on late-differentiation marker (MyHC-β) expression than serum from anaerobic (body building) or from mixed exercised (soccer and volleyball) subjects. Moreover, p62and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein expression was lower in LHCN-M2 cells cultured with human sera from differently exercised subjectst han in cells cultured with DM. In conclusion, LHCN-M2 human myoblasts represent a species-specific system with which to study human myogenic differentiation induced by serum from differently exercised subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - R Arcone
- b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy.,c CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate , Naples , Italy
| | - A Alfieri
- b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy.,c CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate , Naples , Italy
| | - A Canciello
- d Facoltà di Bioscienze e Tecnologie Agro-Alimentari e Ambientali , Università di Teramo , Teramo , Italy
| | - L Russomando
- b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy
| | - D Martone
- b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy
| | - A Cola
- e Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche , Università Federico II , Naples , Italy
| | | | - S Orrù
- a IRCCS SDN , Naples , Italy.,b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy.,c CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate , Naples , Italy
| | - D Tafuri
- b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy
| | - A Mancini
- b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy.,c CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate , Naples , Italy
| | - P Buono
- a IRCCS SDN , Naples , Italy.,b Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere , Università Parthenope , Naples , Italy.,c CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate , Naples , Italy
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22
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Schiano C, Rienzo M, Casamassimi A, Soricelli A, Napoli C. Splicing regulators in endothelial cell differentiation. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2017; 18:742-749. [PMID: 28661931 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000000536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Alternative splicing represents a key mechanism of gene regulation. Despite its role in regulating cell pluripotency and differentiation being well known, the underlining mechanisms are still poorly studied. Here, we investigated the possible involvement of splicing regulators during the different steps of endothelial cell differentiation through expression studies on human circulating progenitors. METHODS Total RNAs were extracted from all cells and reverse-transcribed. Semiquantitative and real-time RT-PCR was performed using selective oligonucleotides. Differences between group means were considered significant at P value less than 0.05 and more significant at P value less than 0.01. Protein extracts were incubated with an antibody directed against MED23. Immunoprecipitation of supernatants and pellets was probed with both anti-Muscleblind-like splicing regulator (MBNL)1 and anti-MBNL2 antibodies. RESULTS Several clinical trials demonstrated the safety and efficacy of progenitor cells in regenerative therapy of the cardiovascular system. Particularly, we analyzed the expression of genes belonging to muscleblind family members and MED complex subunits, which are known to be involved during differentiation in other models. This study shows that MED23, MBNL1 and MBNL2 were all expressed at high levels only in differentiated cells. Moreover, immunoprecipitation assays indicated that MED23 is able to bind MBNLs in endothelial cells. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that MED23, MBNL1 and MBNL2 could regulate alternative splicing events activated during differentiation through a common mechanism. Hence, these observations corroborate previous evidence that splicing regulators may have an essential role in the basic apparatus required for cell pluripotency and reprogramming, allowing identification of novel biomarkers to use for early diagnosis in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Schiano
- aIRCCS SDN bDepartment of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli' cDepartment of Diagnostic Imaging, University of Naples "Parthenope" dU.O.C. Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
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23
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Sabia C, Picascia A, Grimaldi V, Amarelli C, Maiello C, Napoli C. The epigenetic promise to improve prognosis of heart failure and heart transplantation. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2017; 31:249-256. [PMID: 28882368 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Heart transplantation is still the only possible life-saving treatment for end-stage heart failure, the critical epilogue of several cardiac diseases. Epigenetic mechanisms are being intensively investigated because they could contribute to establishing innovative diagnostic and predictive biomarkers, as well as ground-breaking therapies both for heart failure and heart transplantation rejection. DNA methylation and histone modifications can modulate the innate and adaptive immune response by acting on the expression of immune-related genes that, in turn, are crucial determinants of transplantation outcome. Epigenetic drugs acting on methylation and histone-modification pathways may modulate Treg activity by acting as immunosuppressive agents. Moreover, the identification of non-invasive and reliable epigenetic biomarkers for the prediction of allograft rejection and for monitoring immunosuppressive therapies represents an attractive perspective in the management of transplanted patients. MiRNAs seem to fit particularly well to this purpose because they are differently expressed in patients at high and low risk of rejection and are detectable in biological fluids besides biopsies. Although increasing evidence supports the involvement of epigenetic tags in heart failure and transplantation, further short and long-term clinical studies are needed to translate the possible available findings into clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Sabia
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Aging and Metabolic Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Italy.
| | - Antonietta Picascia
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Aging and Metabolic Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Italy
| | - Vincenzo Grimaldi
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Aging and Metabolic Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Italy; Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Cristiano Amarelli
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplants, Monaldi Hospital, Azienda dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Maiello
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplants, Monaldi Hospital, Azienda dei Colli, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- U.O.C. Division of Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialistics, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Aging and Metabolic Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Italy; SDN Foundation, Institute of Diagnostic and Nuclear Development, IRCCS, Via Gianturco 113, 80143 Naples, Italy
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24
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Zullo A, Sommese L, Nicoletti G, Donatelli F, Mancini FP, Napoli C. Epigenetics and type 1 diabetes: mechanisms and translational applications. Transl Res 2017; 185:85-93. [PMID: 28552218 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an irreversible degenerative disease with severe complications such as heart disease, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Although exogenous insulin administration is a life-saving therapy, it does not cure the disease. This review addresses the epigenetic mechanisms responsible for the development of T1D and discusses epigenetic-based strategies for prevention and treatment of the disease. We describe novel epigenetic biomarkers for the identification of susceptible individuals and the establishment of innovative therapies with epidrugs and cell therapy to regenerate the lost β-cells. Despite the wealth of promising data regarding the potential benefits of epigenetic tools to reduce the burden of T1D, clinical trials are still very few, and this issue needs to be resolved in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Zullo
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy; CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies, Naples, Italy
| | - Linda Sommese
- U.O.C. Clinical Immunology, Immunohematology, Transfusion Medicine and Transplant Immunology, Regional Reference Laboratory of Transplant Immunology, Department of Internal and Specialty Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
| | - Gianfranco Nicoletti
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Donatelli
- Cardiovascular Department, Chair of Cardiosurgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco P Mancini
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Claudio Napoli
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Geriatric Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; IRCCS SDN, Naples, Italy
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25
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Seitter H, Koschak A. Relevance of tissue specific subunit expression in channelopathies. Neuropharmacology 2017; 132:58-70. [PMID: 28669898 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Channelopathies are a diverse group of human disorders that are caused by mutations in genes coding for ion channels or channel-regulating proteins. Several dozen channelopathies have been identified that involve both non-excitable cells as well as electrically active tissues like brain, skeletal and smooth muscle or the heart. In this review, we start out from the general question which ion channel genes are expressed tissue-selectively. We mined the human gene expression database Human Protein Atlas (HPA) for tissue-enriched ion channel genes and found 85 genes belonging to the ion channel families. Most of these genes were enriched in brain, testis and muscle and a complete list of the enriched ion channel genes is provided. We further focused on the tissue distribution of voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) genes including different brain areas and the retina based on the human gene expression from the FANTOM5 dataset. The expression data is complemented by an overview of the tissue-dependent aspects of L-type calcium channel (LTCC) function, dysfunction and pharmacology, as well as of their splice variants. Finally, we focus on the pathology of tissue-restricted LTCC channelopathies and their treatment options. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Channelopathies.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Hartwig Seitter
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine, Innrain 80-82/III, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Alexandra Koschak
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine, Innrain 80-82/III, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
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26
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Zullo L, Fossati SM, Imperadore P, Nödl MT. Molecular Determinants of Cephalopod Muscles and Their Implication in Muscle Regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2017; 5:53. [PMID: 28555185 PMCID: PMC5430041 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2017.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to regenerate whole-body structures has been studied for many decades and is of particular interest for stem cell research due to its therapeutic potential. Several vertebrate and invertebrate species have been used as model systems to study pathways involved in regeneration in the past. Among invertebrates, cephalopods are considered as highly evolved organisms, which exhibit elaborate behavioral characteristics when compared to other mollusks including active predation, extraordinary manipulation, and learning abilities. These are enabled by a complex nervous system and a number of adaptations of their body plan, which were acquired over evolutionary time. Some of these novel features show similarities to structures present in vertebrates and seem to have evolved through a convergent evolutionary process. Octopus vulgaris (the common octopus) is a representative of modern cephalopods and is characterized by a sophisticated motor and sensory system as well as highly developed cognitive capabilities. Due to its phylogenetic position and its high regenerative power the octopus has become of increasing interest for studies on regenerative processes. In this paper we provide an overview over the current knowledge of cephalopod muscle types and structures and present a possible link between these characteristics and their high regenerative potential. This may help identify conserved molecular pathways underlying regeneration in invertebrate and vertebrate animal species as well as discover new leads for targeted tissue treatments in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Zullo
- Centre for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenoa, Italy
| | - Sara M Fossati
- Centre for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenoa, Italy
| | | | - Marie-Therese Nödl
- Centre for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenoa, Italy
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