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Hershan AA. Pathogenesis of COVID19 and the applications of US FDA-approved repurposed antiviral drugs to combat SARS-CoV-2 in Saudi Arabia: A recent update by review of literature. Saudi J Biol Sci 2024; 31:104023. [PMID: 38799719 PMCID: PMC11127266 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2024.104023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Still, there is no cure for the highly contagious severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19). The COVID19 pandemic caused health emergencies which resulted in enormous medical and financial consequences worldwide including Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is the largest Arab country of the Middle East. The urban setting of Saudi Arabia makes it vulnerable towards SARS-CoV-2 (SCV-2). Religious areas of this country are visited by millions of pilgrims every year for the Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage, which contributes to the potential COVID19 epidemic risk. COVID19 throws various challenges to healthcare professionals to choose the right drugs or therapy in clinical settings because of the lack of availability of newer drugs. Current drug development and discovery is an expensive, complex, and long process, which involves a high failure rate in clinical trials. While repurposing of United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA)-approved antiviral drugs offers numerous benefits including complete pharmacokinetic and safety profiles, which significantly shorten drug development cycles and reduce costs. A range of repurposed US FDA-approved antiviral drugs including ribavirin, lopinavir/ritonavir combination, oseltamivir, darunavir, remdesivir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir combination, and molnupiravir showed encouraging results in clinical trials in COVID19 treatment. In this article, several COVID19-related discussions have been provided including emerging variants of concern of, COVID19 pathogenesis, COVID19 pandemic scenario in Saudi Arabia, drug repurposing strategies against SCV-2, as well as repurposing of US FDA-approved antiviral drugs that might be considered to combat SCV-2 in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, drug repurposing in the context of COVID19 management along with its limitations and future perspectives have been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almonther Abdullah Hershan
- The University of Jeddah, College of Medicine, Department of Medical microbiology and parasitology, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Bekono BD, Onguéné PA, Simoben CV, Owono LCO, Ntie-Kang F. Computational discovery of dual potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 spike/ACE2 and M pro: 3D-pharmacophore, docking-based virtual screening, quantum mechanics and molecular dynamics. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2024:10.1007/s00249-024-01713-z. [PMID: 38907013 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-024-01713-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
To find drugs against COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2, promising targets include the fusion of the viral spike with the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as well as the main protease (Mpro). These proteins are responsible for viral entry and replication, respectively. We combined several state-of-the-art computational methods, including, protein-ligand interaction fingerprint, 3D-pharmacophores, molecular-docking, MM-GBSA, DFT, and MD simulations to explore two databases: ChEMBL and NANPDB to identify molecules that could both block spike/ACE2 fusion and inhibit Mpro. A total of 1,690,649 compounds from the two databases were screened using the pharmacophore model obtained from PLIF analysis. Five recent complexes of Mpro co-crystallized with different ligands were used to generate the pharmacophore model, allowing 4,829 compounds that passed this prefilter. These were then submitted to molecular docking against Mpro. The 5% top-ranked docking hits from docking result having scores < -8.32 kcal mol-1 were selected and then docked against spike/ACE2. Only four compounds: ChEMBL244958, ChEMBL266531, ChEMBL3680003, and 1-methoxy-3-indolymethyl glucosinolate (4) displayed binding energies < - 8.21 kcal mol-1 (for the native ligand) were considered as putative dual-target inhibitors. Furthermore, predictive ADMET, MM-GBSA and DFT/6-311G(d,p) were performed on these compounds and compared with those of well-known antivirals. DFT calculations showed that ChEMBL244958 and compound 4 had significant predicted reactivity values. Molecular dynamics simulations of the docked complexes were run for 100 ns and used to validate the stability docked poses and to confirm that these hits are putative dual binders of the spike/ACE2 and the Mpro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris D Bekono
- Department of Physics, Ecole Normale Supérieure, University of Yaoundé I, P. O. Box 47, Yaoundé, CM-00237, Cameroon.
- Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, CM-00237, Cameroon.
| | - Pascal Amoa Onguéné
- Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, CM-00237, Cameroon
- Department of Chemistry, University of Yaoundé I Institute of Wood Technology Mbalmayo, University of Yaoundé I, BP 50, Mbalmayo, Cameroon
| | - Conrad V Simoben
- Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, CM-00237, Cameroon
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Luc C O Owono
- Department of Physics, Ecole Normale Supérieure, University of Yaoundé I, P. O. Box 47, Yaoundé, CM-00237, Cameroon
- CEPAMOQ, Faculty of Science, University of Douala, CM-00237, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Fidele Ntie-Kang
- Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, CM-00237, Cameroon.
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, CM-00237, Buea, Cameroon.
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany.
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Alemán GV, Cerpas C, Juarez JG, Moreira H, Arguello S, Coloma J, Harris E, Gordon A, Bennett SN, Balmaseda Á. Tracking the genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 variants in Nicaragua throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.03.596876. [PMID: 38895444 PMCID: PMC11185506 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.03.596876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The global circulation of SARS-CoV-2 has been extensively documented, yet the dynamics within Central America, particularly Nicaragua, remain underexplored. This study characterizes the genomic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in Nicaragua from March 2020 through December 2022, utilizing 1064 genomes obtained via next-generation sequencing. These sequences were selected nationwide and analyzed for variant classification, lineage predominance, and phylogenetic diversity. We employed both Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technologies for all sequencing procedures. Results indicated a temporal and spatial shift in dominant lineages, initially from B.1 and A.2 in early 2020 to various Omicron subvariants towards the study's end. Significant lineage shifts correlated with changes in COVID-19 positivity rates, underscoring the epidemiological impact of variant dissemination. The comparative analysis with regional data underscored the low diversity of circulating lineages in Nicaragua and their delayed introduction compared to other countries in the Central American region. The study also linked specific viral mutations with hospitalization rates, emphasizing the clinical relevance of genomic surveillance. This research advances the understanding of SARS-CoV-2 evolution in Nicaragua and provide valuable information regarding its genetic diversity for public health officials in Central America. We highlight the critical role of ongoing genomic surveillance in identifying emergent lineages and informing public health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristhiam Cerpas
- Sustainable Sciences Institute, Managua, Nicaragua
- Laboratorio Nacional de Virología, Centro Nacional de Diagnóstico y Referencia Ministerio de Salud, Managua, Nicaragua
| | | | | | | | - Josefina Coloma
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Eva Harris
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Ángel Balmaseda
- Sustainable Sciences Institute, Managua, Nicaragua
- Laboratorio Nacional de Virología, Centro Nacional de Diagnóstico y Referencia Ministerio de Salud, Managua, Nicaragua
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Duarte Filho LAMDS, Yanaguibashi Leal CE, Bodet PE, Beserra de Alencar Filho E, Almeida JRGDS, Porta Zapata M, Achour O, Groult H, Gouveia Veloso CA, Viegas Júnior C, Bourgougnon N, Picot L. The Identification of Peptide Inhibitors of the Coronavirus 3CL Protease from a Fucus ceranoides L. Hydroalcoholic Extract Using a Ligand-Fishing Strategy. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:244. [PMID: 38921555 PMCID: PMC11205194 DOI: 10.3390/md22060244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Brown seaweeds of the Fucus genus represent a rich source of natural antiviral products. In this study, a Fucus ceranoides hydroalcoholic extract (FCHE) was found to inhibit 74.2 ± 1.3% of the proteolytic activity of the free SARS-CoV-2 3CL protease (3CLpro), an enzyme that plays a pivotal role in polyprotein processing during coronavirus replication and has been identified as a relevant drug discovery target for SARS- and MERS-CoVs infections. To purify and identify 3CLpro ligands with potential inhibitory activity using a one-step approach, we immobilized the enzyme onto magnetic microbeads (3CLpro-MPs), checked that the enzymatic activity was maintained after grafting, and used this bait for a ligand-fishing strategy followed by a high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis of the fished-out molecules. Proof of concept for the ligand-fishing capacity of the 3CLpro-MPs was demonstrated by doping the FCHE extract with the substrate peptide TSAVLQ-pNA, resulting in the preferential capture of this high-affinity peptide within the macroalgal complex matrix. Ligand fishing in the FCHE alone led to the purification and identification via high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) of seven hepta-, octa-, and decapeptides in an eluate mix that significantly inhibited the free 3CLpro more than the starting FCHE (82.7 ± 2.2% inhibition). Molecular docking simulations of the interaction between each of the seven peptides and the 3CLpro demonstrated a high affinity for the enzyme's proteolytic active site surpassing that of the most affine peptide ligand identified so far (a co-crystallographic peptide). Testing of the corresponding synthetic peptides demonstrated that four out of seven significantly inhibited the free 3CLpro (from 46.9 ± 6.4 to 76.8 ± 3.6% inhibition at 10 µM). This study is the first report identifying peptides from Fucus ceranoides with high inhibitory activity against the SARS-CoV-2 3CLprotease which bind with high affinity to the protease's active site. It also confirms the effectiveness of the ligand-fishing strategy for the single-step purification of enzyme inhibitors from complex seaweed matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cintia Emi Yanaguibashi Leal
- Unité de Génie Enzymatique et Cellulaire, UMR CNRS 7025, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80039 Amiens, France;
| | - Pierre-Edouard Bodet
- Plateforme D’analyse Haute Résolution des Biomolécules, UMR CNRS 7266 LIENSs, La Rochelle Université, 17042 La Rochelle, France;
| | | | | | - Manon Porta Zapata
- Littoral Environnement et Societés (LIENSs), UMRi CNRS 7266, La Rochelle Université, 17042 La Rochelle, France; (L.A.M.d.S.D.F.); (M.P.Z.); (O.A.); (H.G.)
| | - Oussama Achour
- Littoral Environnement et Societés (LIENSs), UMRi CNRS 7266, La Rochelle Université, 17042 La Rochelle, France; (L.A.M.d.S.D.F.); (M.P.Z.); (O.A.); (H.G.)
| | - Hugo Groult
- Littoral Environnement et Societés (LIENSs), UMRi CNRS 7266, La Rochelle Université, 17042 La Rochelle, France; (L.A.M.d.S.D.F.); (M.P.Z.); (O.A.); (H.G.)
| | - Carlos Arthur Gouveia Veloso
- Littoral Environnement et Societés (LIENSs), UMRi CNRS 7266, La Rochelle Université, 17042 La Rochelle, France; (L.A.M.d.S.D.F.); (M.P.Z.); (O.A.); (H.G.)
| | - Claudio Viegas Júnior
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas 37130-000, MG, Brazil;
| | - Nathalie Bourgougnon
- Laboratoire de Biotechnologie et Chimie Marines, LBCM, Université Bretagne Sud, EMR CNRS 6076, IUEM, 56000 Vannes, France;
| | - Laurent Picot
- Littoral Environnement et Societés (LIENSs), UMRi CNRS 7266, La Rochelle Université, 17042 La Rochelle, France; (L.A.M.d.S.D.F.); (M.P.Z.); (O.A.); (H.G.)
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Laro J, Xue B, Zheng J, Ness M, Perlman S, McCall LI. SARS-CoV-2 infection unevenly impacts metabolism in the coronal periphery of the lungs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.22.595414. [PMID: 38952797 PMCID: PMC11216382 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.22.595414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19 significantly decreases amino acids, fatty acids, and most eicosanoidsSARS-CoV-2 preferentially localizes to central lung tissueMetabolic disturbance is highest in peripheral tissue, not central like viral loadSpatial metabolomics allows detection of metabolites not altered overallSARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is a highly contagious virus that can lead to hospitalization and death. COVID-19 is characterized by its involvement in the lungs, particularly the lower lobes. To improve patient outcomes and treatment options, a better understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 impacts the body, particularly the lower respiratory system, is required. In this study, we sought to understand the spatial impact of COVID-19 on the lungs of mice infected with mouse-adapted SARS2-N501Y MA30 . Overall, infection caused a decrease in fatty acids, amino acids, and most eicosanoids. When analyzed by segment, viral loads were highest in central lung tissue, while metabolic disturbance was highest in peripheral tissue. Infected peripheral lung tissue was characterized by lower levels of fatty acids and amino acids when compared to central lung tissue. This study highlights the spatial impacts of SARS-CoV-2 and helps explain why peripheral lung tissue is most damaged by COVID-19.
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Zhou Q, Zhao G, Pan Y, Zhang Y, Ni Y. The efficacy and safety of fluvoxamine in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis from randomized controlled trials. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300512. [PMID: 38753761 PMCID: PMC11098472 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of fluvoxamine have been successfully conducted for the treatment of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fluvoxamine in patients with COVID-19. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for RCTs which were performed to evaluate fluvoxamine and placebo up to January 31, 2024. Review Manager 5.3 was used to perform meta-analysis. The risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) was analyzed and calculated with a random effect model. RESULTS We pooled 4,711 participants from six RCTs (2,382 in the fluvoxamine group and 2,329 in the placebo group). Compared to the placebo group, the fluvoxamine group had a significantly lower rate of clinical deterioration (RR, 0.73; P = 0.004; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.90; I2 = 0%) and hospitalization (RR, 0.76; P = 0.04; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.99; I2 = 0%). In the meantime, compared with the placebo group, fluvoxamine group did not show any higher risk of AEs (P = 0.13 and 0.91, respectively) in safety outcomes analysis. The subgroup analysis showed that fluvoxamine treatment performed more than 200 mg daily appears to be more effective than those performed less than 200 mg daily in reducing clinical deterioration and hospitalization risks, while not exhibiting higher AE and SAE risks than placebo group. CONCLUSION Fluvoxamine for patients with COVID-19, especially those who take 200 mg or more daily, is superior to the placebo group in reducing clinical deterioration and hospitalization, and did not show any higher risk of AEs and SAEs in safety concerns, which might be a promising intervention for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiufeng Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Suzhou Ninth People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Guozheng Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Suzhou Ninth People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yu Pan
- Department of Emergency, Suzhou Ninth People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Emergency, Suzhou Ninth People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuehua Ni
- Department of Emergency, Suzhou Ninth People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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Reda A, Saleh H, Bahgat EA, Fawzy MG. Different Eco-Friendly Spectrophotometric Approaches Including Direct and Manipulations of Zero and Ratio Spectra for Simultaneous Determination of Novel Nasal Spray Combination Used in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis. J AOAC Int 2024; 107:512-518. [PMID: 38410058 DOI: 10.1093/jaoacint/qsae016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presentation of rhinitis has drawn increasing attention in recent years due to the possibility of overlap or confusion between allergic rhinitis symptoms and those of COVID-19. Azelastine hydrochloride (AZH) and mometasone furoate (MOF) are two of the most efficient combinations for enhancing the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. OBJECTIVE This work concerns applying and validating different accurate and simple spectrophotometric approaches for simultaneous quantification of the binary mixture of AZH and MOF in raw material, laboratory-prepared mixtures, and pharmaceutical preparation. Moreover, assessment of the environmental impact of the applied approaches on the environment was also a key goal of this study. METHODS AZH was determined using the direct spectrophotometric (D0) method, while four reliable spectrophotometric approaches namely, induced dual wavelength (IDW), ratio subtraction (RS), ratio difference (RD), and ratio derivative (1DD) were used for MOF determination. RESULTS The methods were validated in line with the International Conference of Harmonization standards. In the AZH range of (5-56 µg/mL) and MOF range of (2-20 µg/mL), the linearity of the proposed approaches was investigated with high accuracy findings. There were no significant differences between the obtained results and those of the reported method when compared statistically. Furthermore, the applied spectrophotometric methods were deemed to be eco-friendly according to Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI) and Analytical Greenness Calculator (AGREE) assessment metrics. CONCLUSIONS The applied spectrophotometric methods are simpler, more eco-friendly, and take a shorter time to precisely estimate many measurements compared to the only reported chromatographic analysis. HIGHLIGHTS Neither publications of novel spectrophotometric methods nor reported green ones have been available for simultaneous determination of the binary mixture of AZH and MOF, so this work has a great significance and novelty in the area of pharmaceutical analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Reda
- Egyptian Russian University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Hanaa Saleh
- Zagazig University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry Department, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Eman A Bahgat
- Zagazig University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry Department, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Michael Gamal Fawzy
- Egyptian Russian University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
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Wu R, Kahl DM, Kloberdanz R, Rohilla KJ, Balasubramanian S. Demonstration of a robust high cell density transient CHO platform yielding mAb titers of up to 2 g/L without medium exchange. Biotechnol Prog 2024; 40:e3435. [PMID: 38329375 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3435] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Biopharmaceuticals like therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and other derived proteins are popular for treating various diseases. Transient gene expression (TGE) is typically used as a fast yet efficient method to generate moderate amounts of material. It has been used to support early stage research and discovery processes. Introduction of a robust high yielding and predictive TGE platform in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) is crucial. It maintains the consistency in cell lines and processes throughout the early drug discovery and downstream manufacturing processes. This helps researchers to identify the issues at an early stage for timely resolution. In this study, we have demonstrated a simple high-titer platform for TGE in CHO based on a dilution process of seeding cells. We achieved titers ranging from 0.8 to 1.9 g/L for eight model mAbs at three scales (1, 30, 100 mL) in 10 days using our new platform. The ability to seed by dilution significantly streamlined the process and dramatically enhanced platform throughput. We observed a modest reduction in titer ranging from 11% to 28% when cells were seeded using dilution compared to when cells were seeded using medium exchange. Further studies revealed that carry over of spent medium into transfection negatively affected the DNA uptake and transcription processes, while the translation and secretion was minimally impacted. In summary, our transient CHO platform using cells prepared by dilution at high densities can achieve high titers of up to 1.9 g/L, which can be further improved by targeting the bottlenecks of transfection and transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigumula Wu
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Danielle M Kahl
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ronald Kloberdanz
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kushal J Rohilla
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sowmya Balasubramanian
- Department of Cell Culture and Bioprocess Operations, Genentech, Inc, San Francisco, California, USA
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Rusi E, Pennacchia F, Ruqa WA, Zingaropoli MA, Pasculli P, Talarico G, Bruno G, Barbato C, Minni A, Tarani L, Galardo G, Pugliese F, Lucarelli M, Ciardi MR, Meucci L, Ferraguti G, Fiore M. Blood Count and Renal Functionality Assessments in the Emergency Section Disclose Morbidity and Mortality in Omicron COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Study. Clin Pract 2024; 14:685-702. [PMID: 38804387 PMCID: PMC11130961 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract14030055] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: SARS-CoV-2 is the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though we are no longer in a pandemic situation, people are still getting infected, some of them need hospitalization and a few of them die. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study including 445 patients who accessed the Emergency Section of Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy, where they had routine blood exams. In this study, we focused on the complete blood count, serum creatinine and azotemia. The data were analyzed using ANOVA, Spearman correlation and ROC analyses. They were divided into four groups based on their clinical outcomes: (1) the emergency group (patients who had mild forms and were quickly discharged); (2) the hospital ward group (patients who were admitted to the emergency section and were then hospitalized in a COVID-19 ward); (3) the intensive care unit (ICU) group (patients who required intensive assistance after the admission in the emergency section); (4) the deceased group (patients who had a fatal outcome after admission to the emergency section). Results: We found significant changes for creatinine, azotemia, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, basophils, monocytes, red blood cell distribution width, hemoglobin, hematocrit and red blood cell numbers using ANOVA according to their clinical outcomes, particularly for the deceased group. Also, we found linear correlations of clinical outcomes with eosinophils, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, lymphocyte, neutrophil, platelet and red blood cell number and red blood cell distribution width. Conclusions: This study discloses an early association between "classical" routine blood biomarkers and the severity of clinical outcomes in Omicron patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eqrem Rusi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorenza Pennacchia
- Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Wael Abu Ruqa
- Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Pasculli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Talarico
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bruno
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Barbato
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC-CNR), c/o Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Minni
- Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, ASL Rieti-Sapienza University, Ospedale San Camillo de Lellis, 02100 Rieti, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Pugliese
- Department of Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Lucarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Ciardi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Meucci
- Directorate Social and Welfare Statistics, ISTAT, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Giampiero Ferraguti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC-CNR), c/o Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Ajami M, Sotoudeheian M, Houshiar-Rad A, Esmaili M, Naeini F, Mohammadi Nasrabadi F, Doaei S, Milani-Bonab A. Quercetin may reduce the risk of developing the symptoms of COVID-19. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2024; 14:189-201. [PMID: 38966631 PMCID: PMC11221767 DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2023.22920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Objective Recent evidence reported that some dietary compounds like quercetin and apigenin as the most well-known flavonoids with anti-inflammatory effects may inhibit SARS-CoV-2 main protease. The hypothesis of the promising effects and possible mechanisms of action of quercetin against COVID-19 were assessed in this article. Materials and Methods Related papers on the inhibitory effects of quercetin against COVID-19 were collected using the following search strategy: "corona or coronavirus or COVID or COVID-19 or viral or virus" AND "nutrient or flavonoid or Quercetin". Results The findings indicated that quercetin can be considered an effective agent against COVID-19 because of its SARS-CoV-2 main protease and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitory effects. In addition, quercetin may attenuate angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptors leading to a reduction of SARS-CoV-2 ability to enter host cells. Moreover, the antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities of quercetin have been frequently reported. Conclusion Quercetin may be an effective agent for managing the complications of COVID-19. Further longitudinal human studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Ajami
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Anahita Houshiar-Rad
- Department of Nutrition Research, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Esmaili
- Department of Nutrition Research, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Naeini
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran university of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohammadi Nasrabadi
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saied Doaei
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Milani-Bonab
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Rigatou A, Sultana MC. SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Comparison Between the Epidemiological Situation in Greece and Romania. Cureus 2024; 16:e54460. [PMID: 38510869 PMCID: PMC10953612 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54460] [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] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, there seems to be scarce data targeting the comparison of epidemiological data among different countries. In an attempt to reveal and characterize the epidemiological profile in the Balkan peninsula, a cross-sectional study has been conducted, aiming to retrospectively collect all the existing information regarding the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic over a period of three years, starting from March 2020 until March 2023. The comparative analysis of the epidemiological features and the main indicators between Romania and Greece can generate a good overview of the factors that can influence public health and create an adequate system of measures to limit the COVID-19 pandemic in the area. A retrospective comparative study aiming to detect and associate the main indicators determining the evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic data with the control measures adopted in Romania and Greece was performed. Methods Publicly available data were obtained from official sources such as the World Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Control, the Romanian and Greek Ministries of Health, and the Romanian National Centre for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases. The reported number of cases, in total and in conjunction with the age distribution, total number of deaths, and vaccination coverage, from the onset of the pandemic in March 2020 until March 2023, were collected. All officially reported cases of COVID-19 were included in this analysis. Reports with missing or incomplete values regarding the timeframe, age distribution, and vaccination status were excluded. Results During the timeframe of the study, from March 2020 until March 2023, Greece reported a higher number of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 cases as compared to Romania (5,910,103 cases and 3,352,356 cases, respectively). Still, in terms of the overall death toll, Romania recorded a higher mortality rate than Greece during the pandemic (67.773 deaths vs. 36.372 deaths). Concerning both cumulative incidence rates and the 14-day case notification rate per 100.000 inhabitants, it is evident that Romania exhibited greater numbers throughout the course of the pandemic. Although it is not clearly stated, the compulsory vaccination of elderly people that was set as a high priority in Greece may have contributed to the above results. In terms of the 14-day death notification rate per 100.000 inhabitants in 2020 and 2021, Romania showed a higher rate than Greece, while Greece reported a greater rate in 2022 and up until March 2023. Between 2020 and 2023, Greece presented both a higher number of vaccinated individuals and a higher vaccination coverage with two doses (7,034,695 individuals, 70% of the general population), as compared to Romania (6,467,804 individuals, 33.68% of the general population, p<0.0001). Conclusions Despite the similar restrictions and preventive actions adopted by Romania and Greece, some of the epidemiological data between the two countries tends to differ. It must not be ignored that every nation should be considered a unique entity with distinct features, including individuals, customs, and policies, rather than being categorized with other countries based on geographic proximity or regionalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Rigatou
- Virology, "St. S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, ROU
| | - Madalina Camelia Sultana
- Virology, "St. S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, ROU
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12
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An Z, Bu C, Shi D, Chen Q, Zhang B, Wang Q, Jin L, Chi L. Structurally defined heparin octasaccharide domain for binding to SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.4/BA.5/BA.5.2 spike protein RBD. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 259:129032. [PMID: 38159696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.129032] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Heparin, a bio-molecule with the highest negative charge density, is pharmaceutically important to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection due to its strong competitive binding to spike protein compared with cellular heparan sulfate, which was confirmed as a co-receptor for virus-host cell interaction. Hence, the refined structural characterization of heparin targeting viral protein-HS interaction was significant for developing antiviral pharmaceuticals. In our study, heparin oligomers (dp ≥ 4) were prepared using heparinase I. The affinity oligosaccharides binding to Omicron spike protein RBD were separated by affinity chromatography and size exclusion chromatography. HILIC-ESI-FTMS was used for chain mapping analysis. The basic building blocks were analyzed and the binding domain sequence was produced by Seq-GAG software and further measured by SAX chromatography. As results, heparin octasaccharide was found with significantly higher binding ability than hexasaccharide and tetrasaccharide, and the octasaccharide [ΔUA-GlcNS6S-GlcA-GlcNS6S-IdoA2S-GlcNS6S-IdoA2S-GlcNS6S] with 12 sulfate groups showed high binding to RBD. The mechanism of this structurally well-defined octasaccharide binding to RBD was further investigated by molecular docking. The affinity energy of optimal pose was -6.8 kcal/mol and the basic amino acid residues in RBD sequence (Arg403, Arg452, Arg493 and His505) were identified as the major contribution factor to interacting with sulfate/carboxyl groups on saccharide chain. Our study demonstrated that heparin oligosaccharide with well-defined structure could be potentially developed as anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhe An
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China
| | - Changkai Bu
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China
| | - Deling Shi
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China
| | - Qingqing Chen
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China
| | - Qingchi Wang
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China
| | - Lan Jin
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China.
| | - Lianli Chi
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, No. 72, Binhai Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, China.
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13
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Lagla Abata M, Balarezo Lasluisa G, Rodriguez Tates M, Velásquez Ron B. Knowledge about methods of disinfection of dental impression among dentists from Ecuador post SARS-COV-2 pandemic. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23280. [PMID: 38169934 PMCID: PMC10758823 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23280] [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: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study is to evaluate the understanding of the management of methods and practices of disinfection of dental impressions applied by general dentists and specialists in oral rehabilitation, post SARS-COV-2 pandemic. Introduction The oral cavity has a favorable environment for the growth and multiplication of bacteria and viruses, serving as the gateway to viruses such as SARS CoV-2 virus. Given that patients may be hosts of this infectious disease, stricter biosecurity measures in dental offices and a better understanding of the disinfection processes of dental impressions should be considered in addition to avoiding cross-infections, which are very common in our work environment. Materials and methods Descriptive, analytical, survey with the topic "Methods and practices of disinfection of dental impressions" that was composed of 14 questions based in OHPD (Oral Health Preventive Dentistry), n = 452 respondents who met the following inclusion criteria: general practice dentists from Ecuador who actively take dental impressions, specialists in oral rehabilitation with 5 years of experience, surveys with information of complete items, n = 270 professionals; n = 192 general dentists, dental hygienist and n = 78 oral rehabilitation specialists. Results n = 270 professionals evaluated, with a mean of p = 0.0. At 426 responses with a p value of <0.05, 30.4 % of responses indicated ignorance in the management of dental impressions, with a standard deviation of 2.744, with significant differences between professions (p = 0.035) and higher average knowledge of sample management within specialist dentists, (Chi p = 0.410 p > 0.05). Conclusion The understanding of the management of dental impressions among general dentists and specialists in oral rehabilitation is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Lagla Abata
- Specialist in Oral Rehabilitation, Department Prosthesis Research School of Dentistry, UDLA Quito Ecuador
| | | | - María Rodriguez Tates
- Dentistry Resident, Faculty of Dentistry. University of Las Americas. UDLA. Campus Colón. +593958916317 CP 170523 Quito-Ecuador, Ecuador
| | - Byron Velásquez Ron
- Department Prosthesis Research School of Dentistry, Universidad de Las Americas (UDLA), Av. Colón y 6. Diciembre CP 170523, + 593023981000 ext 3060,Quito, Ecuador
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Pérez P, Albericio G, Astorgano D, Flores S, Sánchez-Corzo C, Sánchez-Cordón PJ, Luczkowiak J, Delgado R, Casasnovas JM, Esteban M, García-Arriaza J. Preclinical immune efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 beta B.1.351 variant by MVA-based vaccine candidates. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1264323. [PMID: 38155964 PMCID: PMC10754519 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1264323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The constant appearance of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern (VoCs) has jeopardized the protective capacity of approved vaccines against coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). For this reason, the generation of new vaccine candidates adapted to the emerging VoCs is of special importance. Here, we developed an optimized COVID-19 vaccine candidate using the modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) vector to express a full-length prefusion-stabilized SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein, containing 3 proline (3P) substitutions in the S protein derived from the beta (B.1.351) variant, termed MVA-S(3Pbeta). Preclinical evaluation of MVA-S(3Pbeta) in head-to-head comparison to the previously generated MVA-S(3P) vaccine candidate, expressing a full-length prefusion-stabilized Wuhan S protein (with also 3P substitutions), demonstrated that two intramuscular doses of both vaccine candidates fully protected transgenic K18-hACE2 mice from a lethal challenge with SARS-CoV-2 beta variant, reducing mRNA and infectious viral loads in the lungs and in bronchoalveolar lavages, decreasing lung histopathological lesions and levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the lungs. Vaccination also elicited high titers of anti-S Th1-biased IgGs and neutralizing antibodies against ancestral SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain and VoCs alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and omicron. In addition, similar systemic and local SARS-CoV-2 S-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell immune responses were elicited by both vaccine candidates after a single intranasal immunization in C57BL/6 mice. These preclinical data support clinical evaluation of MVA-S(3Pbeta) and MVA-S(3P), to explore whether they can diversify and potentially increase recognition and protection of SARS-CoV-2 VoCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Pérez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Albericio
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - David Astorgano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Flores
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Sánchez-Corzo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro J. Sánchez-Cordón
- Pathology Department, Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA), Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joanna Luczkowiak
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Delgado
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Casasnovas
- Department of Macromolecular Structures, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan García-Arriaza
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
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Li Y, Ma W, Su W, Yan Z, Jia L, Deng J, Zhu A, Xie Y, Li X, Shao W, Ma Y, Che L, Zhu T, Wang H, Li M, Yu P. Synthesis of cell penetrating peptide sterol coupler and its liposome study on S-mRNA. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115822. [PMID: 37793325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115822] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
In order to overcome the current LNP-mRNA delivery system's weakness of poor stability and rapid degradation by nuclease, a novel chol-CGYKK molecule and then the new phospholipid liposome were designed and prepared. A solid phase approach synthesized CGYKK and connected it to cholesterol via a disulfide linker to form the desired chol-CGYKK. Four formulated samples with different proportions of excipients were prepared by freeze-drying cationic liposomes and packaged S-mRNA. The stability test shows that after six months at 4 °C, the encapsulation rate of this novel phospholipid liposome was still approximately 90%, which would significantly improve the storage and transportation requirement. Transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy indicated that the liposomes were spherical and uniformly dispersed. On comparing the levels of mRNA protein expression of the four formulated samples, the S protein vaccine expression of formulated sample 1 was the highest. Uptake by vector cells for formulated sample 1 showed that compared to Lipo2000, and the transfection efficiency was 66.7%. Furthermore, the safety evaluation of the CGYKK and mRNA vaccine liposomes revealed no toxic effects. The in vivo study demonstrated that this novel mRNA vaccine had an immune response. However, it was still not as good as the LNP group right now, but its excellent physicochemical properties, stability, in vitro biological activity, and in vivo efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 provided new strategies for developing the next generation of mRNA delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Wenlin Ma
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Wen Su
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Zhihong Yan
- CanSino (Shanghai) Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China; CanSino Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China; CanSino (Shanghai) Biological Research Co., Ltd, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone Libing Road 67 Lane 7 No. 7 1-3 floor, China
| | - Lin Jia
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Jie Deng
- CanSino (Shanghai) Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China
| | - Ali Zhu
- CanSino (Shanghai) Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanbo Xie
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Wanhui Shao
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Yuman Ma
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Linze Che
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China; CanSino (Shanghai) Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China; CanSino Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China; CanSino (Shanghai) Biological Research Co., Ltd, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone Libing Road 67 Lane 7 No. 7 1-3 floor, China
| | - Haomeng Wang
- CanSino (Shanghai) Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China; CanSino Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, 1377 Luodong Road, Baoshan District, Shanghai, China; CanSino (Shanghai) Biological Research Co., Ltd, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone Libing Road 67 Lane 7 No. 7 1-3 floor, China.
| | - Mingyuan Li
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
| | - Peng Yu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, Tianjin International Cooperation Research Centre of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
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Benjakul S, Anthi AK, Kolderup A, Vaysburd M, Lode HE, Mallery D, Fossum E, Vikse EL, Albecka A, Ianevski A, Kainov D, Karlsen KF, Sakya SA, Nyquist-Andersen M, Gjølberg TT, Moe MC, Bjørås M, Sandlie I, James LC, Andersen JT. A pan-SARS-CoV-2-specific soluble angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-albumin fusion engineered for enhanced plasma half-life and needle-free mucosal delivery. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad403. [PMID: 38077689 PMCID: PMC10703496 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Immunocompromised patients often fail to raise protective vaccine-induced immunity against the global emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants. Although monoclonal antibodies have been authorized for clinical use, most have lost their ability to potently neutralize the evolving Omicron subvariants. Thus, there is an urgent need for treatment strategies that can provide protection against these and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants to prevent the development of severe coronavirus disease 2019. Here, we report on the design and characterization of a long-acting viral entry-blocking angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) dimeric fusion molecule. Specifically, a soluble truncated human dimeric ACE2 variant, engineered for improved binding to the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2, was fused with human albumin tailored for favorable engagement of the neonatal fragment crystallizable receptor (FcRn), which resulted in enhanced plasma half-life and allowed for needle-free transmucosal delivery upon nasal administration in human FcRn-expressing transgenic mice. Importantly, the dimeric ACE2-fused albumin demonstrated potent neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 immune escape variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sopisa Benjakul
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Aina Karen Anthi
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Anette Kolderup
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Marina Vaysburd
- Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Medical Research Council, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Heidrun Elisabeth Lode
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo 0450, Norway
| | - Donna Mallery
- Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Medical Research Council, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Even Fossum
- Department of Virology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo 0213, Norway
| | - Elisabeth Lea Vikse
- Department of Virology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo 0213, Norway
| | - Anna Albecka
- Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Medical Research Council, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Aleksandr Ianevski
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - Denis Kainov
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim 7491, Norway
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00290, Finland
| | - Karine Flem Karlsen
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Siri Aastedatter Sakya
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Mari Nyquist-Andersen
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Torleif Tollefsrud Gjølberg
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo 0450, Norway
| | - Morten C Moe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo 0450, Norway
| | - Magnar Bjørås
- Department of Virology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo 0213, Norway
| | - Inger Sandlie
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo 0371, Norway
| | - Leo C James
- Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry Division, Medical Research Council, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Jan Terje Andersen
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
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17
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Vezzani B, Perrone M, Carinci M, Palumbo L, Tombolato A, Tombolato D, Daminato C, Gentili V, Rizzo R, Campo G, Morandi L, Papi A, Spadaro S, Casolari P, Contoli M, Pinton P, Giorgi C. SARS-CoV-2 infection as a model to study the effect of cinnamaldehyde as adjuvant therapy for viral pneumonia. J Inflamm (Lond) 2023; 20:40. [PMID: 37986089 PMCID: PMC10658863 DOI: 10.1186/s12950-023-00364-9] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent pandemic outbursts, due to SARS-CoV-2, have highlighted once more the central role of the inflammatory process in the propagation of viral infection. The main consequence of COVID-19 is the induction of a diffuse pro-inflammatory state, also defined as a cytokine storm, which affects different organs, but mostly the lungs. We aimed to prove the efficacy of cinnamaldehyde, the active compound of cinnamon, as an anti-inflammatory compound, able to reduce SARS-CoV-2 induced cytokine storm. RESULTS We enrolled 53 COVID-19 patients hospitalized for respiratory failure. The cohort was composed by 39 males and 13 females, aged 65.0 ± 9.8 years. We reported that COVID-19 patients have significantly higher IL-1β and IL-6 plasma levels compared to non-COVID-19 pneumonia patients. In addition, human mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from SARS-CoV-2 infected patients are significantly more prone to release pro-inflammatory cytokines upon stimuli. We demonstrated, using in vitro cell models, that macrophages are responsible for mediating the pro-inflammatory cytokine storm while lung cells support SARS-CoV-2 replication upon viral infection. In this context, cinnamaldehyde administration significantly reduces SARS-CoV-2-related inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 mediated IL-1β release in both PBMCs and THP-1 macrophages, as well as viral replication in CaLu-3 epithelial cells. Lastly, aerosol-administered cinnamaldehyde was able to significantly reduce IL-1β release in an in vivo lung-inflammatory model. CONCLUSION The obtained results suggest the possible use of cinnamaldehyde as a co-adjuvant preventive treatment for COVID-19 disease together with vaccination, but also as a promising dietary supplement to reduce, more broadly, viral induced inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Vezzani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory of Technologies for Advanced Therapy (LTTA), Technopole of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mariasole Perrone
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory of Technologies for Advanced Therapy (LTTA), Technopole of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marianna Carinci
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory of Technologies for Advanced Therapy (LTTA), Technopole of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Palumbo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory of Technologies for Advanced Therapy (LTTA), Technopole of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Campo
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Morandi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto Papi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Savino Spadaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Casolari
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Contoli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory of Technologies for Advanced Therapy (LTTA), Technopole of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlotta Giorgi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Laboratory of Technologies for Advanced Therapy (LTTA), Technopole of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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18
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Miliotou AN, Georgiou-Siafis SK, Ntenti C, Pappas IS, Papadopoulou LC. Recruiting In Vitro Transcribed mRNA against Cancer Immunotherapy: A Contemporary Appraisal of the Current Landscape. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9181-9214. [PMID: 37998753 PMCID: PMC10670245 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45110576] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 100 innovative in vitro transcribed (IVT)-mRNAs are presently undergoing clinical trials, with a projected substantial impact on the pharmaceutical market in the near future. Τhe idea behind this is that after the successful cellular internalization of IVT-mRNAs, they are subsequently translated into proteins with therapeutic or prophylactic relevance. Simultaneously, cancer immunotherapy employs diverse strategies to mobilize the immune system in the battle against cancer. Therefore, in this review, the fundamental principles of IVT-mRNA to its recruitment in cancer immunotherapy, are discussed and analyzed. More specifically, this review paper focuses on the development of mRNA vaccines, the exploitation of neoantigens, as well as Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cells, showcasing their clinical applications and the ongoing trials for the development of next-generation immunotherapeutics. Furthermore, this study investigates the synergistic potential of combining the CAR immunotherapy and the IVT-mRNAs by introducing our research group novel, patented delivery method that utilizes the Protein Transduction Domain (PTD) technology to transduce the IVT-mRNAs encoding the CAR of interest into the Natural Killer (NK)-92 cells, highlighting the potential for enhancing the CAR NK cell potency, efficiency, and bioenergetics. While IVT-mRNA technology brings exciting progress to cancer immunotherapy, several challenges and limitations must be acknowledged, such as safety, toxicity, and delivery issues. This comprehensive exploration of IVT-mRNA technology, in line with its applications in cancer therapeutics, offers valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges in the evolving landscape of cancer immunotherapy, setting the stage for future advancements in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Androulla N. Miliotou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- Department of Health Sciences, KES College, 1055 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 1700 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sofia K. Georgiou-Siafis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece;
| | - Charikleia Ntenti
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
- 1st Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece
| | - Ioannis S. Pappas
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece;
| | - Lefkothea C. Papadopoulou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Macedonia, Greece; (A.N.M.); (S.K.G.-S.); (C.N.)
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19
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Hill K, Thakarar K, Eslinger H, Prosperino L, Sue KL. Improving the Health of People Who Inject Drugs Through COVID-19-Related Policies. Public Health Rep 2023; 138:862-864. [PMID: 37610106 PMCID: PMC10576482 DOI: 10.1177/00333549231192468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Hill
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kinna Thakarar
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population & Health Research/Maine, Portland, ME, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Maine Medical Partners Adult Infectious Diseases, South Portland, ME, USA
| | | | | | - Kimberly L. Sue
- Department of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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20
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Hulscher N, Procter BC, Wynn C, McCullough PA. Clinical Approach to Post-acute Sequelae After COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination. Cureus 2023; 15:e49204. [PMID: 38024037 PMCID: PMC10663976 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 has been found to exhibit pathogenic characteristics and be a possible cause of post-acute sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines utilize a modified, stabilized prefusion spike protein that may share similar toxic effects with its viral counterpart. The aim of this study is to investigate possible mechanisms of harm to biological systems from SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and vaccine-encoded spike protein and to propose possible mitigation strategies. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and 'grey literature' to find studies that (1) investigated the effects of the spike protein on biological systems, (2) helped differentiate between viral and vaccine-generated spike proteins, and (3) identified possible spike protein detoxification protocols and compounds that had signals of benefit and acceptable safety profiles. We found abundant evidence that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein may cause damage in the cardiovascular, hematological, neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and immunological systems. Viral and vaccine-encoded spike proteins have been shown to play a direct role in cardiovascular and thrombotic injuries from both SARS-CoV-2 and vaccination. Detection of spike protein for at least 6-15 months after vaccination and infection in those with post-acute sequelae indicates spike protein as a possible primary contributing factor to long COVID. We rationalized that these findings give support to the potential benefit of spike protein detoxification protocols in those with long-term post-infection and/or vaccine-induced complications. We propose a base spike detoxification protocol, composed of oral nattokinase, bromelain, and curcumin. This approach holds immense promise as a base of clinical care, upon which additional therapeutic agents are applied with the goal of aiding in the resolution of post-acute sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination. Large-scale, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are warranted in order to determine the relative risks and benefits of the base spike detoxification protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Hulscher
- Epidemiology, Unversity of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Cade Wynn
- Family Medicine, McKinney Family Medicine, McKinney, USA
| | - Peter A McCullough
- Internal Medicine, Cardiology, McKinney Family Medicine, McKinney, USA
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, McCullough Foundation, Dallas, USA
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21
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Kashfi K, Anbardar N, Asadipooya A, Asadipooya K. Type 1 Diabetes and COVID-19: A Literature Review and Possible Management. Int J Endocrinol Metab 2023; 21:e139768. [PMID: 38666042 PMCID: PMC11041820 DOI: 10.5812/ijem-139768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Context Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection normally damages the respiratory system but might likewise impair endocrine organs' function. Thyroid dysfunction and hyperglycemia are common endocrine complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and associated complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hospitalization, and death, are thought to have increased during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to review the available data about the incidence rate of T1D and accompanying complications since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence Acquisition A literature review was conducted using the electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar. The keywords "T1D, T1DM, Type 1 DM or Type 1 Diabetes", "Coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19" were used to search these databases. Titles and abstracts were screened for selection, and then relevant studies were reviewed in full text. Results A total of 25 manuscripts out of 304 identified studies were selected. There were 15 (60%) multicenter or nationwide studies. The data about the incidence rate of T1D, hospitalization, and death are not consistent across countries; however, DKA incidence and severity seem to be higher during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study's data collection demonstrated that COVID-19 might or might not increase the incidence of T1D. Nevertheless, it is associated with the higher incidence and severity of DKA in T1D patients. This finding might indicate that antivirals are not fully protective against the endocrine complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which promotes the application of an alternative approach. Conclusions Combining medications that reduce SARS-CoV-2 entry into the cells and modulate the immune response to infection is an alternative practical approach to treating COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kebria Kashfi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Florida International University AUACOM, Florida, USA
| | - Narges Anbardar
- Department of Clinical Medicine, SMUSOM, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Ohio, USA
| | - Artin Asadipooya
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Kamyar Asadipooya
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Barnstable Brown Diabetes and Obesity Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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22
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Thakkar K, Spinardi JR, Yang J, Kyaw MH, Ozbilgili E, Mendoza CF, Oh HML. Impact of vaccination and non-pharmacological interventions on COVID-19: a review of simulation modeling studies in Asia. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1252719. [PMID: 37818298 PMCID: PMC10560858 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1252719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Epidemiological modeling is widely used to offer insights into the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Asia. We reviewed published computational (mathematical/simulation) models conducted in Asia that assessed impacts of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions against COVID-19 and their implications for vaccination strategy. Methods A search of the PubMed database for peer-reviewed, published, and accessible articles in English was performed up to November 2022 to capture studies in Asian populations based on computational modeling of outcomes in the COVID-19 pandemic. Extracted data included model type (mechanistic compartmental/agent-based, statistical, both), intervention type (pharmacological, non-pharmacological), and procedures for parameterizing age. Findings are summarized with descriptive statistics and discussed in terms of the evolving COVID-19 situation. Results The literature search identified 378 results, of which 59 met criteria for data extraction. China, Japan, and South Korea accounted for approximately half of studies, with fewer from South and South-East Asia. Mechanistic models were most common, either compartmental (61.0%), agent-based (1.7%), or combination (18.6%) models. Statistical modeling was applied less frequently (11.9%). Pharmacological interventions were examined in 59.3% of studies, and most considered vaccination, except one study of an antiviral treatment. Non-pharmacological interventions were also considered in 84.7% of studies. Infection, hospitalization, and mortality were outcomes in 91.5%, 30.5%, and 30.5% of studies, respectively. Approximately a third of studies accounted for age, including 10 that also examined mortality. Four of these studies emphasized benefits in terms of mortality from prioritizing older adults for vaccination under conditions of a limited supply; however, one study noted potential benefits to infection rates from early vaccination of younger adults. Few studies (5.1%) considered the impact of vaccination among children. Conclusion Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, non-pharmacological interventions helped to mitigate the health burden of COVID-19; however, modeling indicates that high population coverage of effective vaccines will complement and reduce reliance on such interventions. Thus, increasing and maintaining immunity levels in populations through regular booster shots, particularly among at-risk and vulnerable groups, including older adults, might help to protect public health. Future modeling efforts should consider new vaccines and alternative therapies alongside an evolving virus in populations with varied vaccination histories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karan Thakkar
- Vaccine Medical Affairs, Emerging Markets, Pfizer Inc., Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Jingyan Yang
- Vaccine Global Value and Access, Pfizer Inc., New York, NY, United States
| | - Moe H. Kyaw
- Vaccine Medical Affairs, Emerging Markets, Pfizer Inc., Reston, VA, United States
| | - Egemen Ozbilgili
- Asia Cluster Medical Affairs, Emerging Markets, Pfizer Inc., Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Helen May Lin Oh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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23
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Sabnis RW. Novel Compounds for Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Viral Replication and Treating COVID-19. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:1150-1151. [PMID: 37736189 PMCID: PMC10510508 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Provided herein are novel compounds as SARS-CoV-2-related 3C-like protease inhibitors, pharmaceutical compositions, use of such compounds in preventing SARS-CoV-2 viral replication and treating COVID-19, and processes for preparing such compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram W. Sabnis
- Smith, Gambrell & Russell
LLP, 1105 W. Peachtree Street NE, Suite 1000, Atlanta, Georgia 30309, United States
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24
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Sha A, Liu Y, Hao H. Current state-of-the-art and potential future therapeutic drugs against COVID-19. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1238027. [PMID: 37691829 PMCID: PMC10485263 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1238027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to endanger human health, and its therapeutic drugs are under intensive research and development. Identifying the efficacy and toxicity of drugs in animal models is helpful for further screening of effective medications, which is also a prerequisite for drugs to enter clinical trials. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) invades host cells mainly by the S protein on its surface. After the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome is injected into the cells, M protein will help assemble and release new viruses. RdRp is crucial for virus replication, assembly, and release of new virus particles. This review analyzes and discusses 26 anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs based on their mechanism of action, effectiveness and safety in different animal models. We propose five drugs to be the most promising to enter the next stage of clinical trial research, thus providing a reference for future drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailong Sha
- School of Teacher Education, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Chongqing, China
- School of Biology and Food Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Liu
- School of Biology and Food Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyan Hao
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing, China
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25
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Montero S, Urrunaga-Pastor D, Soto-Becerra P, Cvetkovic-Vega A, Guillermo-Roman M, Figueroa-Montes L, Sagástegui AA, Alvizuri-Pastor S, Contreras-Macazana RM, Apolaya-Segura M, Díaz-Vélez C, Maguiña JL. Humoral response after a BNT162b2 heterologous third dose of COVID-19 vaccine following two doses of BBIBP-CorV among healthcare personnel in Peru. Vaccine X 2023; 14:100311. [PMID: 37207103 PMCID: PMC10162476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2023.100311] [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: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The inactivated virus vaccine, BBIBP-CorV, was principally distributed across low- and middle-income countries as primary vaccination strategy to prevent poor COVID-19 outcomes. Limited information is available regarding its effect on heterologous boosting. We aim to evaluate the immunogenicity and reactogenicity of a third booster dose of BNT162b2 following a double BBIBP-CorV regime. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among healthcare providers from several healthcare facilities of the Seguro Social de Salud del Perú - ESSALUD. We included participants two-dose BBIBP-CorV vaccinated who presented a three-dose vaccination card at least 21 days passed since the vaccinees received their third dose and were willing to provide written informed consent. Antibodies were determined using LIAISON® SARS-CoV-2 TrimericS IgG (DiaSorin Inc., Stillwater, USA). Factors potentially associated with immunogenicity, and adverse events, were considered. We used a multivariable fractional polynomial modeling approach to estimate the association between anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies' geometric mean (GM) ratios and related predictors. Results We included 595 subjects receiving a third dose with a median (IQR) age of 46 [37], [54], from which 40% reported previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. The overall geometric mean (IQR) of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies was 8,410 (5,115 - 13,000) BAU/mL. Prior SARS-CoV-2 history and full/part-time in-person working modality were significantly associated with greater GM. Conversely, time from boosting to IgG measure was associated with lower GM levels. We found 81% of reactogenicity in the study population; younger age and being a nurse were associated with a lower incidence of adverse events. Conclusions Among healthcare providers, a booster dose of BNT162b2 following a full BBIBP-CorV regime provided high humoral immune protection. Thus, SARS-CoV-2 previous exposure and working in person displayed as determinants that increase anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Montero
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
| | - Diego Urrunaga-Pastor
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
- Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola (USIL), Lima, Peru
| | - Percy Soto-Becerra
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
- Universidad Continental, Huancayo, Perú
| | - Aleksandar Cvetkovic-Vega
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Privada Antenor Orrego, Trujillo, Peru
| | - Martina Guillermo-Roman
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | - Moisés Apolaya-Segura
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Privada Antenor Orrego, Trujillo, Peru
| | - Cristian Díaz-Vélez
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Privada Antenor Orrego, Trujillo, Peru
| | - Jorge L. Maguiña
- Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación - IETSI, ESSALUD, Lima, Peru
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
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26
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Marinescu M. Benzimidazole-Triazole Hybrids as Antimicrobial and Antiviral Agents: A Systematic Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1220. [PMID: 37508316 PMCID: PMC10376251 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12071220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial infections have attracted the attention of researchers in recent decades, especially due to the special problems they have faced, such as their increasing diversity and resistance to antibiotic treatment. The emergence and development of the SARS-CoV-2 infection stimulated even more research to find new structures with antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Among the heterocyclic compounds with remarkable therapeutic properties, benzimidazoles, and triazoles stand out, possessing antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-Alzheimer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidiabetic, or anti-ulcer activities. In addition, the literature of the last decade reports benzimidazole-triazole hybrids with improved biological properties compared to the properties of simple mono-heterocyclic compounds. This review aims to provide an update on the synthesis methods of these hybrids, along with their antimicrobial and antiviral activities, as well as the structure-activity relationship reported in the literature. It was found that the presence of certain groups grafted onto the benzimidazole and/or triazole nuclei (-F, -Cl, -Br, -CF3, -NO2, -CN, -CHO, -OH, OCH3, COOCH3), as well as the presence of some heterocycles (pyridine, pyrimidine, thiazole, indole, isoxazole, thiadiazole, coumarin) increases the antimicrobial activity of benzimidazole-triazole hybrids. Also, the presence of the oxygen or sulfur atom in the bridge connecting the benzimidazole and triazole rings generally increases the antimicrobial activity of the hybrids. The literature mentions only benzimidazole-1,2,3-triazole hybrids with antiviral properties. Both for antimicrobial and antiviral hybrids, the presence of an additional triazole ring increases their biological activity, which is in agreement with the three-dimensional binding mode of compounds. This review summarizes the advances of benzimidazole triazole derivatives as potential antimicrobial and antiviral agents covering articles published from 2000 to 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Marinescu
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and Catalysis, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania
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27
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Zhu JH, Tai CH, Ping CF, Chou PH, Tsai YL, Chung S, Bradner L, Pentella M, Gauger P, Zhang J. Evaluation of a Sample-to-Result POCKIT Central SARS-CoV-2 PCR System. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2219. [PMID: 37443612 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132219] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of COVID-19 has caused unprecedented impacts on global public health and many other aspects. Meanwhile, many types of methods have been developed to detect the causative agent, SARS-CoV-2; this has greatly advanced the technologies in the diagnostic field. Here, we describe the development and validation of a sample-in-result-out POCKIT Central SARS-CoV-2 PCR system for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in comparison with a commercial reference real-time RT-PCR assay (TaqPath COVID-19 Combo Kit). Both assays were specific and did not cross-react with non-SARS-CoV-2 agents. Both assays were able to detect various SARS-CoV-2 strains including some variants. Based on testing serial dilutions of SARS-CoV-2 USA-WA1/2020 isolate, the limit of detection was 0.8 TCID50/mL (1.87 × 103 genomic copies/mL) for POCKIT Central SARS-CoV-2 PCR and 0.16 TCID50/mL (3.75 × 102 genomic copies/mL) for the reference PCR. Subsequently, 183 clinical samples were tested by both assays and the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and agreement of the POCKIT Central SARS-CoV-2 PCR were 91.7%, 100%, and 94.0%, respectively, when compared to the reference PCR. The compact sample-to-result POCKIT Central SARS-CoV-2 PCR system is a simplified and efficient point-of-care tool for SARS-CoV-2 detection. In addition, this platform can be readily adapted to detect other human and animal viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Hui Zhu
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Chia-Hsing Tai
- GeneReach Biotechnology Corporation, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Fong Ping
- GeneReach Biotechnology Corporation, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Hsing Chou
- GeneReach Biotechnology Corporation, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Long Tsai
- GeneReach Biotechnology Corporation, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Simon Chung
- GeneReach Biotechnology Corporation, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Laura Bradner
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Michael Pentella
- State Hygienic Laboratory, University of Iowa, Coralville, IA 52241, USA
| | - Phillip Gauger
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Jianqiang Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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Han L, Song S, Feng H, Ma J, Wei W, Si F. A roadmap for developing Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) vaccines: Lessons from the past, strategies for the future. Int J Biol Macromol 2023:125514. [PMID: 37353130 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125514] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), which can lead to severe central nervous system infections in both humans and animals. At present, the medical community does not possess a viable means of addressing VEE, rendering the prevention of the virus a matter of paramount importance. Regarding the prevention and control of VEEV, the implementation of a vaccination program has been recognized as the most efficient strategy. Nevertheless, there are currently no licensed vaccines or drugs available for human use against VEEV. This imperative has led to a surge of interest in vaccine research, with VEEV being a prime focus for researchers in the field. In this paper, we initially present a comprehensive overview of the current taxonomic classification of VEEV and the cellular infection mechanism of the virus. Subsequently, we provide a detailed introduction of the prominent VEEV vaccine types presently available, including inactivated vaccines, live attenuated vaccines, genetic, and virus-like particle vaccines. Moreover, we emphasize the challenges that current VEEV vaccine development faces and suggest urgent measures that must be taken to overcome these obstacles. Notably, based on our latest research, we propose the feasibility of incorporation codon usage bias strategies to create the novel VEEV vaccine. Finally, we prose several areas that future VEEV vaccine development should focus on. Our objective is to encourage collaboration between the medical and veterinary communities, expedite the translation of existing vaccines from laboratory to clinical applications, while also preparing for future outbreaks of new VEEV variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Han
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Breeding Pig, Shanghai 201106, China; Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Clinical Medical College of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China
| | - Shuai Song
- Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Experiment Station of Veterinary Drugs and Diagnostic Techniques of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou 510640, PR China
| | - Huilin Feng
- Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infection and Biological Safety, School of Basic Medical Sciences of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Clinical Medical College of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China
| | - Wenqiang Wei
- Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infection and Biological Safety, School of Basic Medical Sciences of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China.
| | - Fusheng Si
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Breeding Pig, Shanghai 201106, China.
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Santoni D, Ghosh N, Derelitto C, Saha I. Transcription Factor Driven Gene Regulation in COVID-19 Patients. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051188. [PMID: 37243274 DOI: 10.3390/v15051188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 and its many variants have caused a worldwide emergency. Host cells colonised by SARS-CoV-2 present a significantly different gene expression landscape. As expected, this is particularly true for genes that directly interact with virus proteins. Thus, understanding the role that transcription factors can play in driving differential regulation in patients affected by COVID-19 is a focal point to unveil virus infection. In this regard, we have identified 19 transcription factors which are predicted to target human proteins interacting with Spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2. Transcriptomics RNA-Seq data derived from 13 human organs are used to analyse expression correlation between identified transcription factors and related target genes in both COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. This resulted in the identification of transcription factors showing the most relevant impact in terms of most evident differential correlation between COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. This analysis has also identified five organs such as the blood, heart, lung, nasopharynx and respiratory tract in which a major effect of differential regulation mediated by transcription factors is observed. These organs are also known to be affected by COVID-19, thereby providing consistency to our analysis. Furthermore, 31 key human genes differentially regulated by the transcription factors in the five organs are identified and the corresponding KEGG pathways and GO enrichment are also reported. Finally, the drugs targeting those 31 genes are also put forth. This in silico study explores the effects of transcription factors on human genes interacting with Spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 and intends to provide new insights to inhibit the virus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santoni
- Institute for System Analysis and Computer Science "Antonio Ruberti", National Research Council of Italy, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Nimisha Ghosh
- Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Mechanics, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Computer Science and Information Technology, Institute of Technical Education and Research, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar 751030, India
| | - Carlo Derelitto
- Institute for System Analysis and Computer Science "Antonio Ruberti", National Research Council of Italy, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Indrajit Saha
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, National Institute of Technical Teachers' Training and Research, Kolkata 700106, India
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Alanzi AR, Parvez MK, Al-Dosari MS. Structure-based virtual identification of natural inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 and its Delta and Omicron variant proteins. Future Virol 2023; 18:421-438. [PMID: 38051986 PMCID: PMC10241455 DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2022-0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Aim Structure-based identification of natural compounds against SARS-CoV-2, Delta and Omicron target proteins. Materials & methods Several known antiviral natural compounds were subjected to molecular docking and MD simulation against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, Helicase and Spike, including Delta and Omicron Spikes. Results Of the docked ligands, 20 selected for each complex exhibited overall good binding affinities (-7.79 to -5.06 kcal/mol) with acceptable physiochemistry following Lipinski's rule. Finally, two best ligands from each complex upon simulation showed structural stability and compactness. Conclusion Quercetin-3-acetyl-glucoside, Rutin, Kaempferol, Catechin, Orientin, Obetrioside and Neridienone A were identified as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, Helicase and Spike, while Orientin and Obetrioside also showed good binding affinities with Omicron Spike. Catechin and Neridienone A formed stable complexes with Delta Spike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah R Alanzi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad K Parvez
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S Al-Dosari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Hirabara SM, Gorjao R, Marzuca-Nassr GN, Vitzel KF, Vinolo MAR, Masi LN. Editorial: Molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in inflammation, metabolism and oxidative stress induced by coronaviruses. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1182531. [PMID: 37032863 PMCID: PMC10073705 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1182531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Massao Hirabara
- Interdisciplinary Post-Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Sandro Massao Hirabara
| | - Renata Gorjao
- Interdisciplinary Post-Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Kaio Fernando Vitzel
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Marco Aurélio Ramirez Vinolo
- Laboratory of Immunoinflammation, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology, and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Laureane Nunes Masi
- Interdisciplinary Post-Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
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