1
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Cerrano C, Giovine M, Steindler L. Petrosia ficiformis (Poiret, 1789): an excellent model for holobiont and biotechnological studies. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 74:61-65. [PMID: 34800848 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aggregation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells has resulted in evolution of organisms with remarkable abilities to synthetize natural bioactive compounds of biotechnological relevance. Marine sponges such as Petrosia ficiformis are examples of this evolutionary strategy. The P. ficiformis microbiome, which produces a diversity of chemical compounds, plays a fundamental role in this sponge's extraordinary adaptation to various ecological conditions. The microbial community of P. ficiformis seems representative of sponge microbiomes, but it has an unusual exclusively horizontal transmission. This uncommon feature, together with its wide environmental distribution, its ability to generate 3D cell cultures that host symbionts, and the availability of meta-omics and physiology information make this sponge an effective model to study the complexity of holobionts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Cerrano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anthon Dohrn, 80121 Napoli, Italy; Fano Marine Center, 61032 Fano, Italy
| | - Marco Giovine
- DISTAV-Department of Sciences of Earth, Environment and Life, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Steindler
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
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2
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Song Y, Qu Y, Cao X, Zhang W, Zhang F, Linhardt RJ, Yang Q. Cultivation of fractionated cells from a bioactive-alkaloid-bearing marine sponge Axinella sp. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2021; 57:539-549. [PMID: 33948851 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-021-00578-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Sponges are among the most primitive multicellular organisms and well-known as a major source of marine natural products. Cultivation of sponge cells has long been an attractive topic due to the prominent evolutionary and cytological significance of sponges and as a potential approach to supply sponge-derived compounds. Sponge cell culture is carried out through culturing organized cell aggregates called 'primmorphs.' Most research culturing sponge cells has used unfractionated cells to develop primmorphs. In the current study, a tropical marine sponge Axinella sp., which contains the bioactive alkaloids, debromohymenialdisine (DBH), and hymenialdisine (HD), was used to obtain fractionated cells and the corresponding primmorphs. These alkaloids, DBH and HD, reportedly show pharmacological activities for treating osteoarthritis and Alzheimer's disease. Three different cell fractions were obtained, including enriched spherulous cells, large mesohyl cells, and small epithelial cells. These cell fractions were cultivated separately, forming aggregates that later developed into different kinds of primmorphs. The three kinds of primmorphs obtained were compared as regards to appearance, morphogenesis, and cellular composition. Additionally, the amount of alkaloid in the primmorphs-culture system was examined over a 30-d culturing period. During the culturing of enriched spherulous cells and developed primmorphs, the total amount of alkaloid declined notably. In addition, the speculation of alkaloid secretion and some phenomena that occurred during cell culturing are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuefan Song
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Product Processing and Utilization of Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, China.
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
| | - Yi Qu
- Dalian Environmental Monitoring Center, Dalian, China
| | - Xupeng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Centre for Marine Bioproducts Development, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Qi Yang
- Center for Marine Drugs, State Key Laboratory of Oncogene and Related Genes, Department of Pharmacy, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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3
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Scarfì S, Pozzolini M, Oliveri C, Mirata S, Salis A, Damonte G, Fenoglio D, Altosole T, Ilan M, Bertolino M, Giovine M. Identification, Purification and Molecular Characterization of Chondrosin, a New Protein with Anti-tumoral Activity from the Marine Sponge Chondrosia Reniformis Nardo 1847. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18080409. [PMID: 32748866 PMCID: PMC7459819 DOI: 10.3390/md18080409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
: Chondrosia reniformis is a common marine demosponge showing many peculiarities, lacking silica spicules and with a body entirely formed by a dense collagenous matrix. In this paper, we have described the identification of a new cytotoxic protein (chondrosin) with selective activity against specific tumor cell lines, from C. reniformis, collected from the Liguria Sea. Chondrosin was extracted and purified using a salting out approach and molecular weight size exclusion chromatography. The cytotoxic fractions were then characterized by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry analysis and matched the results with C. reniformis transcriptome database. The procedure allowed for identifying a full-length cDNA encoding for a 199-amino acids (aa) polypeptide, with a signal peptide of 21 amino acids. The mature protein has a theoretical molecular weight of 19611.12 and an IP of 5.11. Cell toxicity assays showed a selective action against some tumor cell lines (RAW 264.7 murine leukemia cells in particular). Cell death was determined by extracellular calcium intake, followed by cytoplasmic reactive oxygen species overproduction. The in silico modelling of chondrosin showed a high structural homology with the N-terminal region of the ryanodine receptor/channel and a short identity with defensin. The results are discussed suggesting a possible specific interaction of chondrosin with the Cav 1.3 ion voltage calcium channel expressed on the target cell membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.S.); (M.P.); (C.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.)
- Centro 3R, Interuniversitary Center for the Promotion of the Principles of the 3Rs in Teaching and Research, Via Caruso 16, 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.S.); (M.P.); (C.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.)
| | - Caterina Oliveri
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.S.); (M.P.); (C.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.)
| | - Serena Mirata
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.S.); (M.P.); (C.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.)
| | - Annalisa Salis
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Biochemistry Section, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.S.); (G.D.); (D.F.); (T.A.)
| | - Gianluca Damonte
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Biochemistry Section, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.S.); (G.D.); (D.F.); (T.A.)
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 9, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Daniela Fenoglio
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Biochemistry Section, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.S.); (G.D.); (D.F.); (T.A.)
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 9, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Tiziana Altosole
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Biochemistry Section, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.S.); (G.D.); (D.F.); (T.A.)
| | - Micha Ilan
- School of Zoology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel;
| | - Marco Bertolino
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.S.); (M.P.); (C.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Giovine
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (S.S.); (M.P.); (C.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-010-3533-8221
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4
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Markl JS, Müller WEG, Sereno D, Elkhooly TA, Kokkinopoulou M, Gardères J, Depoix F, Wiens M. A synthetic biology approach for the fabrication of functional (fluorescent magnetic) bioorganic–inorganic hybrid materials in sponge primmorphs. Biotechnol Bioeng 2020; 117:1789-1804. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.27310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia S. Markl
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical CenterJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
| | - Werner E. G. Müller
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical CenterJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
| | - Dayane Sereno
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical CenterJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
| | - Tarek A. Elkhooly
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical CenterJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
| | | | - Johan Gardères
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical CenterJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
| | - Frank Depoix
- Institute of ZoologyJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
| | - Matthias Wiens
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical CenterJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz Germany
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5
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Greco G, Di Piazza S, Gallus L, Amaroli A, Pozzolini M, Ferrando S, Bertolino M, Scarfì S, Zotti M. First identification of a fatal fungal infection of the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis by Aspergillus tubingensis. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2019; 135:227-239. [PMID: 31535618 DOI: 10.3354/dao03397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sponges are considered promising sources of biomolecules for both pharmaceutical and cosmetic interests as well as for the production of biomaterials suitable for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Accordingly, the ability to grow sponges in captivity and in healthy conditions to increase their biomass is a required goal for the development of sponge aquaculture systems. To date, little information is available about the pathogenicity of fungi associated with sponges. In our study, we identified an infection in freshly collected specimens of Chondrosia reniformis (Porifera, Demospongiae) and determined that the fungus Aspergillus tubingensis was the pathogen responsible. This is the first description of a natural infection of C. reniformis by A. tubingensis. Despite raising an inflammatory response by means of an increase in tumour necrosis factor (TNF) mRNA, the infected C. reniformis specimens were not able to control the fungal infection, leading to rotting in 15 d. Characterization of this infection shows that a widely distributed fungus can represent a potential hazard to sponge aquaculture industries and how, especially in stressed or compromised marine environments, this fungus could represent a fatal opportunistic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Greco
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Corso Europa 26, 16132, Italy
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6
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Pozzolini M, Gallus L, Ghignone S, Ferrando S, Candiani S, Bozzo M, Bertolino M, Costa G, Bavestrello G, Scarfì S. Insights into the evolution of metazoan regenerative mechanisms: roles of TGF superfamily members in tissue regeneration of the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 222:jeb.207894. [PMID: 31371401 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.207894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Tissue repair is an adaptive and widespread metazoan response. It is characterised by different cellular mechanisms and complex signalling networks that involve numerous growth factors and cytokines. In higher animals, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signalling plays a fundamental role in wound healing. In order to evaluate the involvement of TGF superfamily members in lower invertebrate tissue regeneration, sequences for putative TGF ligands and receptors were isolated from the transcriptome of the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis We identified seven transcripts that coded for TGF superfamily ligands and three for TGF superfamily receptors. Phylogenetically, C. reniformis TGF ligands were not grouped into any TGF superfamily clades and thus presumably evolved independently, whereas the TGF receptors clustered in the Type I receptor group. We performed gene expression profiling of these transcripts in sponge regenerating tissue explants. Data showed that three ligands (TGF1, TGF3 and TGF6) were mainly expressed during early regeneration and seemed to be involved in stem cell maintenance, whereas two others (TGF4 and TGF5) were strongly upregulated during late regeneration and thus were considered pro-differentiating factors. The presence of a strong TGF inhibitor, SB431542, blocked the restoration of the exopinacoderm layer in the sponge explants, confirming the functional involvement of the TGF pathway in tissue regeneration in these early evolved animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Gallus
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Ghignone
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection-Turin Unit (CNR), Viale Mattioli 25, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Sara Ferrando
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Simona Candiani
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Matteo Bozzo
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Marco Bertolino
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Gabriele Costa
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Bavestrello
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
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7
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Munroe S, Sandoval K, Martens DE, Sipkema D, Pomponi SA. Genetic algorithm as an optimization tool for the development of sponge cell culture media. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2019; 55:149-158. [PMID: 30747414 PMCID: PMC6407725 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-018-00317-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Sponges are rich sources of novel natural products. Production in cell cultures may be an option for supply of these compounds but there are currently no sponge cell lines. Because there is a lack of understanding about the precise conditions and nutritional requirements that are necessary to sustain sponge cells in vitro, there has yet to be a defined, sponge-specific nutrient medium. This study utilized a genetic algorithm approach to optimize the amino acid composition of a commercially available basal cell culture medium in order to increase the metabolic activity of cells of the marine sponge Dysidea etheria. Four generations of the algorithm were carried out in vitro in wet lab conditions and an optimal medium combination was selected for further evaluation. When compared to the basal medium control, there was a twofold increase in metabolic activity. The genetic algorithm approach can be used to optimize other components of culture media to efficiently optimize chosen parameters without the need for detailed knowledge on all possible interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Munroe
- Bioprocess Engineering, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands.
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.
| | - Kenneth Sandoval
- Bioprocess Engineering, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Dirk E Martens
- Bioprocess Engineering, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Detmer Sipkema
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Shirley A Pomponi
- Bioprocess Engineering, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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8
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Pozzolini M, Scarfì S, Gallus L, Ferrando S, Cerrano C, Giovine M. Silica-induced fibrosis: an ancient response from the early metazoans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 220:4007-4015. [PMID: 29093191 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.166405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to crystalline silica particles causes silicosis, an occupational disease leading to an overproduction of collagen in the lung. The first step of this pathology is characterized by the release of inflammatory mediators. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine directly involved in silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The marine demosponge Chondrosia reniformis is able to incorporate silica grains and partially dissolve the crystalline forms apparently without toxic effects. In the present work, C. reniformis tissue explants were treated with fine quartz dust and the expression level of fibrogenic genes was assayed by qPCR, demonstrating an overexpression of a fibrillar and a non-fibrillar collagen and of prolyl-4-hydroxylase enzyme. The deposition of new collagen could also be documented in quartz-treated sponge explants. Furthermore, TNF pro-inflammatory cytokine overexpression and involvement in silica-induced sponge collagen biosynthesis was demonstrated in quartz-treated explants as compared with controls by means of specific TNF inhibitors affecting the fibrogenic gene response. As no documentable detrimental effect was observed in treated explants, we conclude that the C. reniformis unique quartz engulfment and erosion is physiological and beneficial to the animal, leading to new collagen synthesis and strengthening of the body stiffness. Thus, we put forward the hypothesis that an ancient physiological behaviour from the lowest of the Metazoa, persisting through evolution via the same molecular mediators such as TNF, may have become the cause of disease in the specialized tissues of higher animals such as mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Gallus
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Ferrando
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Carlo Cerrano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Giovine
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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9
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Pozzolini M, Scarfì S, Gallus L, Castellano M, Vicini S, Cortese K, Gagliani MC, Bertolino M, Costa G, Giovine M. Production, Characterization and Biocompatibility Evaluation of Collagen Membranes Derived from Marine Sponge Chondrosia reniformis Nardo, 1847. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:E111. [PMID: 29596370 PMCID: PMC5923398 DOI: 10.3390/md16040111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Collagen is involved in the formation of complex fibrillar networks, providing the structural integrity of tissues. Its low immunogenicity and mechanical properties make this molecule a biomaterial that is extremely suitable for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) strategies in human health issues. Here, for the first time, we performed a thorough screening of four different methods to obtain sponge collagenous fibrillar suspensions (FSs) from C. reniformis demosponge, which were then chemically, physically, and biologically characterized, in terms of protein, collagen, and glycosaminoglycans content, viscous properties, biocompatibility, and antioxidant activity. These four FSs were then tested for their capability to generate crosslinked or not thin sponge collagenous membranes (SCMs) that are suitable for TERM purposes. Two types of FSs, of the four tested, were able to generate SCMs, either from crosslinking or not, and showed good mechanical properties, enzymatic degradation resistance, water binding capacity, antioxidant activity, and biocompatibility on both fibroblast and keratinocyte cell cultures. Finally, our results demonstrate that it is possible to adapt the extraction procedure in order to alternatively improve the mechanical properties or the antioxidant performances of the derived biomaterial, depending on the application requirements, thanks to the versatility of C. reniformis extracellular matrix extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Gallus
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Maila Castellano
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry (DCCI), University of Genova, Via Dodecaneso 31, 16146 Genova, Italy.
| | - Silvia Vicini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry (DCCI), University of Genova, Via Dodecaneso 31, 16146 Genova, Italy.
| | - Katia Cortese
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Human Anatomy Section, University of Genova, Via De Toni 14, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Gagliani
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), Human Anatomy Section, University of Genova, Via De Toni 14, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Marco Bertolino
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Costa
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Marco Giovine
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
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10
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Pozzolini M, Scarfì S, Ghignone S, Mussino F, Vezzulli L, Cerrano C, Giovine M. Molecular characterization and expression analysis of the first Porifera tumor necrosis factor superfamily member and of its putative receptor in the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 57:88-98. [PMID: 26705701 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Here we report the molecular cloning and characterization of the first Tumor Necrosis Factor homologous and of its putative receptor in the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis: chTNF and chTNFR, respectively. The deduced chTNF amino acid sequence is a type II transmembrane protein containing the typical TNFSF domain. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that chTNF is more related to Chordata TNFs rather than to other invertebrates. chTNF and chTNFR are constitutively expressed both in the ectosome and in the choanosome of the sponge, with higher levels in the ectosome. chTNF and chTNFR mRNAs were monitored in sponge fragmorphs treated with Gram(+) or Gram(-) bacteria. chTNF was significantly upregulated in Gram(+)-treated fragmorphs as compared to controls, while chTNFR was upregulated by both treatments. Finally, the possible chTNF fibrogenic role in sponge fragmorphs was studied by TNF inhibitor treatment measuring fibrillar and non fibrillar collagen gene expression; results indicate that the cytokine is involved in sponge collagen deposition and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132, Italy.
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132, Italy
| | - Stefano Ghignone
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection-Turin Unit (CNR), Viale Mattioli 25, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Mussino
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132, Italy
| | - Luigi Vezzulli
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132, Italy
| | - Carlo Cerrano
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences (DiSVA), Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Giovine
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DiSTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132, Italy
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11
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Pozzolini M, Scarfì S, Mussino F, Ferrando S, Gallus L, Giovine M. Molecular Cloning, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of a Prolyl 4-Hydroxylase from the Marine Sponge Chondrosia reniformis. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2015; 17:393-407. [PMID: 25912371 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-015-9630-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Prolyl 4-hydroxylase (P4H) catalyzes the hydroxylation of proline residues in collagen. P4H has two functional subunits, α and β. Here, we report the cDNA cloning, characterization, and expression analysis of the α and β subunits of the P4H derived from the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis. The amino acid sequence of the α subunit is 533 residues long with an M r of 59.14 kDa, while the β subunit counts 526 residues with an M r of 58.75 kDa. Phylogenetic analyses showed that αP4H and βP4H are more related to the mammalian sequences than to known invertebrate P4Hs. Western blot analysis of sponge lysate protein cross-linking revealed a band of 240 kDa corresponding to an α2β2 tetramer structure. This result suggests that P4H from marine sponges shares the same quaternary structure with vertebrate homologous enzymes. Gene expression analyses showed that αP4H transcript is higher in the choanosome than in the ectosome, while the study of factors affecting its expression in sponge fragmorphs revealed that soluble silicates had no effect on the αP4H levels, whereas ascorbic acid strongly upregulated the αP4H mRNA. Finally, treatment with two different tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors determined a significant downregulation of αP4H gene expression in fragmorphs demonstrating, for the first time in Porifera, a positive involvement of TNF in sponge matrix biosynthesis. The molecular characterization of P4H genes involved in collagen hydroxylation, including the mechanisms that regulate their expression, is a key step for future recombinant sponge collagen production and may be pivotal to understand pathological mechanisms related to extracellular matrix deposition in higher organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Territory Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132, Genova, Italy,
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Burgsdorf I, Erwin PM, López-Legentil S, Cerrano C, Haber M, Frenk S, Steindler L. Biogeography rather than association with cyanobacteria structures symbiotic microbial communities in the marine sponge Petrosia ficiformis. Front Microbiol 2014; 5:529. [PMID: 25346728 PMCID: PMC4193313 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2014.00529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The sponge Petrosia ficiformis is ubiquitous in the Mediterranean Sea and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, hosting a diverse assemblage of bacteria, including, in illuminated sites, cyanobacteria. Two closely related sponge color morphs have been described, one inside caves and at their entrance (white/pink), and one on the rocky cliffs (violet). The presence of the different morphs and their ubiquity in the Mediterranean (from North-West to South-East) provides an opportunity to examine which factors mostly affect the associated microbial communities in this species: (i) presence of phototrophic symbionts or (ii) biogeography. 16S rRNA gene tag pyrosequencing data of the microbial communities revealed that Chloroflexi, Gammaproteobacteria, and Acidobacteria dominated the bacterial communities of all sponges analyzed. Chlorophyll a content, TEM observations and DNA sequence data confirmed the presence of the cyanobacterium Synechococcus feldmannii in violet and pink morphs of P. ficiformis and their absence in white color morphs. Rather than cyanobacterial symbionts (i.e., color morphs) accounting for variability in microbial symbiont communities, a biogeographic trend was observed between P. ficiformis collected in Israel and Italy. Analyses of partial 18S rRNA and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1) gene sequences revealed consistent genetic divergence between the violet and pink-white morphotypes of P. ficiformis. Overall, data indicated that microbial symbiont communities were more similar in genetically distinct P. ficiformis from the same location, than genetically similar P. ficiformis from distant locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Burgsdorf
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa Haifa, Israel
| | - Patrick M Erwin
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington Wilmington, NC, USA
| | - Susanna López-Legentil
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, Center for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington Wilmington, NC, USA
| | - Carlo Cerrano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Markus Haber
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa Haifa, Israel
| | - Sammy Frenk
- Department of Soil, Water, and Environmental Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization - Volcani Center Bet-Dagan, Israel ; Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Rehovot, Israel
| | - Laura Steindler
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa Haifa, Israel
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