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Cao Q, Li Y, Hu Y, He B, Tang Y, Cao T, Peng B, Zhou X, Liu S. Serofast status in syphilis: Pathogenesis to therapeutics. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 560:119754. [PMID: 38815665 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119754] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum, has been experiencing a rise in prevalence in recent years. "Syphilis serofast" describes a unique serological reaction in patients with syphilis whose clinical symptoms have resolved following consistent anti-syphilitic therapy, but the non-Treponema pallidum antigen serologic test is still positive. Syphilis serofast is a risk factor for syphilis recurrence, neurosyphilis, and multisystem involvement. Considering the current lack of comprehensive knowledge about the epidemiological characteristics, pathogenesis, and therapies of syphilis serofast, we conducted an online search of research relating to syphilis serofast over the last twenty years. Previous research has shown that the pathogenesis of syphilis serofast is mainly related to clinical factors, immune factors, syphilis subtypes, and T.pallidum membrane protein repeat gene antigen. There are two distinct viewpoints on the treatment of serofast: no excessive treatment and active treatment. In addition, serofast patients also showed two clinical outcomes: syphilis recurrence and persistent serofast status. This article systematically reviews the related factors, treatment, and clinical outcomes of syphilis serofast, provides a theoretical basis for its research, diagnosis, and treatment, and helps clinicians develop a follow-up treatment management plan for syphilis serofast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Yibao Hu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Bisha He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Yun Tang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Ting Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Binfeng Peng
- Center of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, China.
| | - Xiangping Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Shuangquan Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of microbiology and infectious diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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Cappellucci G, Baini G, Miraldi E, Pauletto L, De Togni H, Raso F, Biagi M. Investigation on the Efficacy of Two Food Supplements Containing a Fixed Combination of Selected Probiotics and β-Glucans or Elderberry Extract for the Immune System: Modulation on Cytokines Expression in Human THP-1 and PBMC. Foods 2024; 13:458. [PMID: 38338593 PMCID: PMC10855234 DOI: 10.3390/foods13030458] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Several herbal and other natural products are used as ingredients in food supplements to strengthen immunity even if, very often, marketed products are proposed without a clear rationale or experimental evidence. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect on human monocytes (THP-1) and on ex vivo human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of two formulations, one containing Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bl-04® with β-glucans (for adults) and one containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL1505 with elderberry extract (for children). We compared formulations with single ingredients, with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the drug pidotimod; cytokines expression level was evaluated testing different concentrations of samples at two exposure times. As expected, LPS caused a non-specific huge upregulation of cytokines expression both in THP-1 and in PBMC, whereas pidotimod mainly upregulated IL-2 in PBMC and IL-8 in THP-1. The two formulations showed a difference between a pro-inflammatory stimulus such as LPS, and also from an immunostimulant drug, such as pidotimod, as they mainly upregulated the expression of IL-6 and IL-10 in PBMC but not in THP-1, in a concentration-dependent mode. Probiotics were shown to play a major role, but β-glucans and elderberry extract exerted a synergistic activity. This work demonstrated that combining selected probiotics with other natural products having immunomodulatory properties is an interesting strategy to develop innovative formulations in the sector of food supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Cappellucci
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (G.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Giulia Baini
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (G.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (G.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Lara Pauletto
- Scientific Affairs Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, 39044 Egna, Italy; (L.P.); (H.D.T.); (F.R.)
| | - Heide De Togni
- Scientific Affairs Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, 39044 Egna, Italy; (L.P.); (H.D.T.); (F.R.)
| | - Floriana Raso
- Scientific Affairs Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, 39044 Egna, Italy; (L.P.); (H.D.T.); (F.R.)
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
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Ucciferri C, Di Gasbarro A, Borrelli P, Di Nicola M, Vecchiet J, Falasca K. New Therapeutic Options in Mild Moderate COVID-19 Outpatients. Microorganisms 2022; 10:2131. [PMID: 36363723 PMCID: PMC9697915 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112131] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, the therapeutic options for COVID have significantly improved; however, the therapies are expensive with restricted access to drugs, and expeditious and difficult to manage at home. We investigated the effect of pidotimod in preventing hospitalization in patients with mild-moderate COVID-19. Methods: A total of 1231 patients between January and June 2021 were screened. A total of 184 patients with mild-moderate COVID-19 were enrolled and divided into two groups: group-A (97) had undergone therapy with pidotimod 800 mg bid for 7−10 days and group-B (87) had other therapies. We excluded those who had undergone complete vaccination course, monoclonal anti-spike/antivirals or the co-administration of pidotimod-steroid. The primary outcome chosen was the emergency room, hospitalization, and deaths for COVID-related causes; the secondary outcome chosen was the duration of COVID-19 illness. Results: A total of 34 patients (18.5%) required hospital treatment, 11 in group-A and 23 in group-B (11.3% vs. 26.4%, p = 0.008). The median disease duration in group-A was 21 days (IQR 17−27) vs. 23 (IQR 20−31) in group-B (p = 0.005). Patients in the pidotimod group had higher SpO2 in the walking test (IQR 96−99% vs. IQR 93−98%, p = 0.01) and a lower need for steroid rescue therapy (11.5% vs. 60.9%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In the first phase of disease, pidotimod can represent an effective, low-cost, weapon, without restrictions of use, that is able to prevent a second aggressive phase and promote faster virological recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Ucciferri
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandro Di Gasbarro
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Paola Borrelli
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Marta Di Nicola
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Jacopo Vecchiet
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Katia Falasca
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Immunostimulation in Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245765. [PMID: 34945060 PMCID: PMC8706211 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The effects of immunomodulators in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia are still unknown. We investigated the cellular inflammatory and molecular changes in response to standard-of-care + pidotimod (PDT) and explored the possible association with blood biomarkers of disease severity. Methods: Clinical characteristics and outcomes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), plasma and cell supernatant chemokines, and gene expression patterns after SARS-CoV-2 and influenza (FLU) virus in vitro stimulation were assessed in 16 patients with mild-moderate COVID-19 pneumonia, treated with standard of care and PDT 800 mg twice daily (PDT group), and measured at admission, 7 (T1), and 12 (T2) days after therapy initiation. Clinical outcomes and NLR were compared with age-matched historical controls not exposed to PDT. Results: Hospital stay, in-hospital mortality, and intubation rate did not differ between groups. At T1, NLR was 2.9 (1.7–4.6) in the PDT group and 5.5 (3.4–7.1) in controls (p = 0.037). In the PDT group, eotaxin and IL-4 plasma concentrations progressively increased (p < 0.05). Upon SARS-CoV-2 and FLU-specific stimulation, IFN-γ was upregulated (p < 0.05), while at genetic transcription level, Pathogen Recognition Receptors (TRLs) were upregulated, especially in FLU-stimulated conditions. Conclusions: Immunomodulation exerted by PDT and systemic corticosteroids may foster a restoration in the innate response to the viral infection. These results should be confirmed in larger RCTs.
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Ucciferri C, Falasca K, Reale M, Tamburro M, Auricchio A, Vignale F, Vecchiet J. Pidotimod and Immunological Activation in Individuals Infected with HIV. Curr HIV Res 2021; 19:260-268. [PMID: 33430735 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x18666210111102046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The improvements in HIV infection therapy and the large availability of antiretroviral drugs have led to an increased survival among HIV infected people, and simultaneously to a raised morbidity and mortality due to not-AIDS-related events in this group compared to the general population. An increased systemic inflammation and a persistent immune activation play a pivotal role in determining high rates of non-AIDS comorbidities. In the last years, many natural or synthetic immunomodulatory molecules acting by different mechanisms have been conceived. Pidotimod is a synthetic dipeptide molecule showing immunomodulatory properties. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of Pidotimod supplementation on residual inflammation in HIV infected population. METHODS Forty HIV positive individuals under cART were enrolled: 30 were treated with Pidotimod supplementation (study group) and 10 served as control group (without Pidotimod supplementation). For all participants, Cystatin C, PCR, ESR, microalbuminuria, TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-4, IL-10, IL1β, IL-18 and IL-2 were measured at enrolment (T0), 4 weeks after of Pidotimod supplementation (T1), and 4 weeks after completing supplementation (T2). RESULTS In HIV positive participants treated with Pidotimod, the evaluation of cytokine levels showed that IL-10, IFN gamma, and IL-4 were significantly higher at enrolment compared to the control group. The increase under Pidotimod treatment persisted after supplementation suspension, while the pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were reduced. Salivary IgA also increased during 4 weeks of supplementation and persisted at 4 weeks after completing supplementation. On the other hand, the Cystatin C and microalbuminuria levels decreased over time, at a greater extent the Cystatin C serum levels. CONCLUSION The study findings showed that the HIV population receiving Pidotimod achieved a rebalancing of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines as well as a significant reduction in cystatin C levels. The treatment further allowed for an increase in salivary IgA levels at all the analyzed times, as a secondary event to a remodulation of the immunological status obtained with pidotimod. This approach could represent a new way to design new intervention strategies aimed at improving the persistent immune activation status in the virologically suppressed HIV population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Ucciferri
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Katia Falasca
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Marcella Reale
- Unit of Immunodiagnostic and Molecular Pathology, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti- Pescara, Italy
| | - Manuela Tamburro
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Antonio Auricchio
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Francesca Vignale
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Jacopo Vecchiet
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Italy
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Zeng Z, Tang L, Zhou Y, Wang B, Wang Q, Zou P, Zhan X, Fu L, Li W. Effect of pidotimod on growth performance, immune function,
intestinal epithelial barriers and microbiota of piglets. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND FEED SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.22358/jafs/134117/2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Preparation and purification of an immunoregulatory peptide from Stolephorus chinensis of the East Sea of China. Process Biochem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2020.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Larenas-Linnemann D, Rodríguez-Pérez N, Arias-Cruz A, Blandón-Vijil MV, Del Río-Navarro BE, Estrada-Cardona A, Gereda JE, Luna-Pech JA, Navarrete-Rodríguez EM, Onuma-Takane E, Pozo-Beltrán CF, Rojo-Gutiérrez MI. Enhancing innate immunity against virus in times of COVID-19: Trying to untangle facts from fictions. World Allergy Organ J 2020; 13:100476. [PMID: 33072240 PMCID: PMC7546230 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2020.100476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, during which the world is confronted with a new, highly contagious virus that suppresses innate immunity as one of its initial virulence mechanisms, thus escaping from first-line human defense mechanisms, enhancing innate immunity seems a good preventive strategy. Methods Without the intention to write an official systematic review, but more to give an overview of possible strategies, in this review article we discuss several interventions that might stimulate innate immunity and thus our defense against (viral) respiratory tract infections. Some of these interventions can also stimulate the adaptive T- and B-cell responses, but our main focus is on the innate part of immunity. We divide the reviewed interventions into: 1) lifestyle related (exercise, >7 h sleep, forest walking, meditation/mindfulness, vitamin supplementation); 2) Non-specific immune stimulants (letting fever advance, bacterial vaccines, probiotics, dialyzable leukocyte extract, pidotimod), and 3) specific vaccines with heterologous effect (BCG vaccine, mumps-measles-rubeola vaccine, etc). Results For each of these interventions we briefly comment on their definition, possible mechanisms and evidence of clinical efficacy or lack of it, especially focusing on respiratory tract infections, viral infections, and eventually a reduced mortality in severe respiratory infections in the intensive care unit. At the end, a summary table demonstrates the best trials supporting (or not) clinical evidence. Conclusion Several interventions have some degree of evidence for enhancing the innate immune response and thus conveying possible benefit, but specific trials in COVID-19 should be conducted to support solid recommendations.
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Key Words
- ACE2, Angiotensin converting enzime-2
- APC, Antigen-presenting cell
- BCG, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin
- BV, Bacterial vaccine
- Bacillus calmette-guérin
- Bacterial vaccine
- CCL-5, Chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 5
- CI, Confidence interval
- CNS, Central nervous system
- COVID-19
- COVID-19, Coronavirus disease-2019
- CXCR3A, CXC chemokine receptor 3A
- DAMPs, Damage-associated molecular patterns
- DC, Dendritic cell
- DLE, Dialyzable leukocyte extract
- Exercise
- Gαs: G protein coupled receptor alfa-subunits, HSP
- Heat shock proteins, HLA-DR
- Immune response
- Immunoglobulin, IGFBP6
- Innate
- Insulin-like growth-factor-binding-protein 6, IL
- Intercellular adhesion molecule type 1, IFN
- Interferon, IG
- Interleukin, MBSR
- MCP-1, Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1
- MMR
- MODS, Multi-organ dysfunction syndrome
- Major histocompatibility complex class II cell surface receptor, ICAM-1
- Mindfulness
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction, mCa++: Intramitochondrial calcium
- MyD88, Myeloid differentiation primary response 88
- NF-κB, Nuclear factor kappaB
- NK, Natural killer
- NK-Cell
- NOD2, Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2
- OR, Odds ratio
- OxPhos: Oxidative phosphorylation, PAMPs
- PKC, Protein kinase C
- PPD, Purified protein derivative (tuberculin)
- PUFA, Polyunsaturated fatty acid
- Pathogen-associated molecular patterns, PBMC
- Peripheral blood mononuclear cell, PI3K/Akt: Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway
- R0: Basic reproduction number, REM
- Rapid eye movement, RIPK2
- Reactive nitrogen species, ROS
- Reactive oxygen species, SARS-CoV-2
- Receptor iteracting serine/threonine kinase 2, RNA
- Ribonucleic acid, RNS
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SIRS
- Sleep
- Systemic inflammatory response syndrome, TCR:T-cell receptor
- TLR, Toll-like receptor
- TNF-α, Tumor necrosis factor alpha
- TRPV, Thermolabile calcium channels
- Th, T helper-cell
- Trained immunity
- URTI, Upper-respiratory tract infection
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Affiliation(s)
- Désirée Larenas-Linnemann
- Médica Sur, Clinical Foundation and Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
- Corresponding author. Médica Sur, Fundación clínica y hospital, Puente de piedra 150, T2Toriello Guerra, Tlalpan, Ciudad de México, México, 14050, Mexico. E-mails:
| | | | - Alfredo Arias-Cruz
- State University of Nuevo León, School of Medicine and University Hospital Dr. José Eleuterio González, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | - Jorge A. Luna-Pech
- Departamento de Disciplinas Filosóficas, Metodológicas e Instrumentales (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | | | - Ernesto Onuma-Takane
- Fundación Clínica y Hospital Médica Sur, Ciudad de México, México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Puggioni F, Alves-Correia M, Mohamed MF, Stomeo N, Mager R, Marinoni M, Racca F, Paoletti G, Varricchi G, Giorgis V, Melioli G, Canonica GW, Heffler E. Immunostimulants in respiratory diseases: focus on Pidotimod. Multidiscip Respir Med 2019; 14:31. [PMID: 31700623 PMCID: PMC6827234 DOI: 10.1186/s40248-019-0195-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Usefulness of Pidotimod and its role as immunostimulant, has been discussed, we know, for several decades. Nevertheless, there is still much to know. Understanding its mechanisms and its potential usefulness in airway infections and its prevention, asthma both Th2 and non Th2 type, bronchiectasis, as adjuvant in vaccination and in allergen immunotherapy still remains to clearly unveil. The aim of this paper was to provide a useful updated review of the role of the main available immunostimulants, giving particular focus on Pidotimod use and its potentials utility in respiratory diseases. Pidotimod showed its usefulness in reducing need for antibiotics in airway infections, increasing the level of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG) and T-lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+) endowed with immunomodulatory activity that affect both innate and adaptive immune responses. Higher expression of TLR2 and of HLA-DR molecules, induction of dendritic cell maturation and release of pro-inflammatory molecules, stimulation of T lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation toward a Th1 phenotype, as well as an increase of the phagocytosis have been demonstrated to be associated with Pidotimod in in vitro studies. All these activities are potentially useful for several respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and recurrent respiratory tract infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Puggioni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Magna Alves-Correia
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
- Central Hospital of Funchal, SESARAM, EPE, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Manar-Farouk Mohamed
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
- Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Niccolò Stomeo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
| | - Riccardo Mager
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
| | | | - Francesca Racca
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Giovanni Paoletti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Gilda Varricchi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences and Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Giorgis
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Giovanni Melioli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Giorgio Walter Canonica
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
| | - Enrico Heffler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI Italy
- Personalized Medicine, Allergy and Asthma - Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Via Alessandro Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI Italy
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Zhao N, Liu C, Zhu C, Dong X, Liu X. Pidotimod: a review of its pharmacological features and clinical effectiveness in respiratory tract infections. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2019; 17:803-818. [PMID: 31603361 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2019.1679118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The majority of acute respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are caused by viruses and the overzealous use of antibacterial drugs, when not really required, is a cause for concern. This has led to evaluation of alternative approaches such as boosting the immune response in individuals who are most vulnerable to develop RTIs such as the very young and the elderly. Areas covered: This article overviews the immunostimulant activity and pharmacokinetic properties of pidotimod, and focuses on assessing its role in the treatment and prevention of acute RTIs through evaluation of clinical trials and real-world evidence. Articles were obtained from a full search of Medline, and this was augmented by published clinical studies known to the authors and manufacturer. Expert opinion: Pidotimod's activity was shown to be mediated via multiple pathways of the immune system. Comparison with placebo demonstrated significant advantages for pidotimod in terms of reduced reinfection rates [OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.33; p < 0.00001], a lesser need for antibiotics [mean difference -2.65, 95% CI -3.68 to -1.62; p < 0.00001] and rescue medications, and decreased absenteeism [mean difference-2.99, 95% CI -4.03 to -1.95; p < 0.00001]. No safety concerns were raised in these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zhao
- Pharmacy Department, Peking University First Hospital , Beijing , China
| | - Chuanhe Liu
- Allergy Department, Centre for Asthma Prevention and Lung Function, Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Paediatrics , Beijing , China
| | - Chunmei Zhu
- Respiratory Department, Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Paediatrics , Beijing , China
| | - Xiaoyan Dong
- Respiratory Department, Children's Hospital of Shanghai Jiaotong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Xiuyun Liu
- Respiratory Department, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
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D'Amato M, Paris D, Molino A, Cuomo P, Fulgione A, Sorrentino N, Palomba L, Maniscalco M, Motta A. The Immune-Modulator Pidotimod Affects the Metabolic Profile of Exhaled Breath Condensate in Bronchiectatic Patients: A Metabolomics Pilot Study. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1115. [PMID: 31632269 PMCID: PMC6785784 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Pidotimod, a synthetic dipeptide molecule with biological and immunological activities, is used to reduce the number of exacerbations or pneumonitis in patients with inflammatory diseases. In the present study, we investigated whether Pidotimod modifies the metabolomic pathways measured in the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectatic patients (NCFB). Materials and Methods: We analyzed 40 adult patients affected by NCFB. They were randomly selected to receive Pidotimod 800 mg b/d for 21 consecutive days (3 weeks) per month for 6 months (20 patients, V1 group) or no drug (20 patients, V0 group), with a 1:1 criterion and then followed as outpatients. Results: EBC samples were collected from all patients at baseline and after 6 months. They were investigated by combined nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and multivariate statistical analysis to uncover metabolic differences between EBC from NCFB patients before and after therapy with Pidotimod. Pulmonary function test and pulmonary exacerbations were analyzed at baseline and at the end of Pidotimod therapy. The EBC metabolites were all identified, and through statistical evaluation, we were able to discriminate the two samples' classes, with acetate, acetoin, lactate, and citrate as statistically significant discriminatory metabolites. The model vas validated by using a blind set of 20 NCFB samples, not included in the primary analysis. No differences were observed in PFT after 6 months. At the end of the study, there was a significant decrease of exacerbation rate in V1 group as compared with V0 group, with a substantial reduction of the number of mild or severe exacerbations (p < 0.001). Discussion: Pidotimod modifies the respiratory metabolic phenotype ("metabotype") of NCFB patients and reduces the number of exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D'Amato
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Respiratory Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Debora Paris
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Molino
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Respiratory Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Cuomo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Andrea Fulgione
- Department of Agriculture, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Nunzia Sorrentino
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Respiratory Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Letizia Palomba
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Mauro Maniscalco
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Unit, ICS Maugeri SPA, IRCCS, Telese Terme, Italy
| | - Andrea Motta
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council, Pozzuoli, Italy
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Santamaria F, Montella S, Stocchero M, Pirillo P, Bozzetto S, Giordano G, Poeta M, Baraldi E. Effects of pidotimod and bifidobacteria mixture on clinical symptoms and urinary metabolomic profile of children with recurrent respiratory infections: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2019; 58:101818. [PMID: 31302340 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2019.101818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many preschool children develop recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRI). Strategies to prevent RRI include the use of immunomodulators as pidotimod or probiotics, but there is limited evidence of their efficacy on clinical features or on urine metabolic profile. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether pidotimod and/or bifidobacteria can reduce RRI morbidity and influence the urine metabolic profile in preschool children. MATERIALS AND METHODS Children aged 3-6 years with RRI were enrolled in a four-arm, exploratory, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Patients were randomly assigned to receive pidotimod plus bifidobacteria, pidotimod plus placebo, bifidobacteria plus placebo or double placebo for the first 10 days of each month over 4 consecutive months. Respiratory symptoms and infections were recorded with a daily diary by parents during the study. Metabolomic analyses on urine samples collected before and after treatment were performed. RESULTS Compared to placebo, children receiving pidotimod, alone or with bifidobacteria, had more symptom-free days (69 versus 44, p = 0.003; and 65 versus 44, p = 0.02, respectively) and a lower percentage of days with common cold (17% versus 37%, p = 0.005; and 15% versus 37%, p = 0.004, respectively). The metabolomic analysis showed that children treated with Pidotimod (alone or in combination with bifidobacteria) present, respect to children treated with placebo, a biochemical profile characterized by compounds related to the pathway of steroids hormones, hippuric acid and tryptophan. No significant difference in the metabolic profile was found between children receiving bifidobacteria alone and controls. CONCLUSIONS Preschool children with RRI treated with pidotimod have better clinical outcomes and a different urine metabolomic profile than subjects receiving placebo. Further investigations are needed to clarify the connection between pidotimod and gut microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Santamaria
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Silvia Montella
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Matteo Stocchero
- Women's and Children's Health Department, University of Padova, Via Nicolò Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy.
| | - Paola Pirillo
- Women's and Children's Health Department, University of Padova, Via Nicolò Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy; Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35129, Padova, Italy.
| | - Sara Bozzetto
- Women's and Children's Health Department, University of Padova, Via Nicolò Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Giordano
- Women's and Children's Health Department, University of Padova, Via Nicolò Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy; Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35129, Padova, Italy.
| | - Marco Poeta
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Eugenio Baraldi
- Women's and Children's Health Department, University of Padova, Via Nicolò Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padova, Italy; Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35129, Padova, Italy.
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Kang HK, Lee HH, Seo CH, Park Y. Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Properties and Applications of Marine-Derived Proteins and Peptides. Mar Drugs 2019; 17:md17060350. [PMID: 31212723 PMCID: PMC6628016 DOI: 10.3390/md17060350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine organisms provide an abundant source of potential medicines. Many of the marine-derived biomaterials have been shown to act as different mechanisms in immune responses, and in each case they can significantly control the immune system to produce effective reactions. Marine-derived proteins, peptides, and protein hydrolysates exhibit various physiologic functions, such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory activities. Recently, the immunomodulatory properties of several antimicrobial peptides have been demonstrated. Some of these peptides directly kill bacteria and exhibit a variety of immunomodulatory activities that improve the host innate immune response and effectively eliminate infection. The properties of immunomodulatory proteins and peptides correlate with their amino acid composition, sequence, and length. Proteins and peptides with immunomodulatory properties have been tested in vitro and in vivo, and some of them have undergone different clinical and preclinical trials. This review provides a comprehensive overview of marine immunomodulatory proteins, peptides, and protein hydrolysates as well as their production, mechanisms of action, and applications in human therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Kyoung Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Korea.
- Department of Convergences, Kongju National University, Kongju 314-701, Korea.
| | - Hyung Ho Lee
- Department of Convergences, Kongju National University, Kongju 314-701, Korea.
| | - Chang Ho Seo
- Department of Convergences, Kongju National University, Kongju 314-701, Korea.
| | - Yoonkyung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Korea.
- Research Center for Proteineous Materials, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Korea.
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Mahashur A, Thomas PK, Mehta P, Nivangune K, Muchhala S, Jain R. Pidotimod: In-depth review of current evidence. Lung India 2019; 36:422-433. [PMID: 31464215 PMCID: PMC6710962 DOI: 10.4103/lungindia.lungindia_39_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pidotimod, an immunostimulant, is researched for over two decades. Current evidence indicates its utility in a variety of indications in children as well as in adults. Its immunostimulant activity has been firmly established in the management of recurrent respiratory infections in children with or without asthma. Compared to standard of care alone, addition of pidotimod to standard of care significantly prevents the recurrences and reduces the severity and duration of acute episodes, ultimately resulting in reduced visits to pediatric clinics and lower absenteeism at school. In adults, pidotimod is effective in the prevention and treatment of acute infectious exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Further, it has been evaluated in indications such as pneumonia, hand–food–mouth disease, bronchiectasis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria. From a total of 32 studies conducted in child (24 studies) and adult (8 studies) population, this in-depth review discusses the current evidence of pidotimod. With further exploration, the immunostimulant activity of pidotimod might be extended to different immunological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Mahashur
- PD Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - P K Thomas
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Apollo Clinic, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Parthiv Mehta
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Mehta Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Kundan Nivangune
- Department of Medical Affairs, Wockhardt Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Snehal Muchhala
- Department of Medical Affairs, Wockhardt Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rishi Jain
- Department of Medical Affairs, Wockhardt Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Ceccato A, Ferrer M, Barbeta E, Torres A. Adjunctive Therapies for Community-Acquired Pneumonia. Clin Chest Med 2018; 39:753-764. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2018.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Esposito S, Soto-Martinez ME, Feleszko W, Jones MH, Shen KL, Schaad UB. Nonspecific immunomodulators for recurrent respiratory tract infections, wheezing and asthma in children: a systematic review of mechanistic and clinical evidence. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2018; 18:198-209. [PMID: 29561355 PMCID: PMC6037280 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0000000000000433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an overview of the mechanistic and clinical evidence for the use of nonspecific immunomodulators in paediatric respiratory tract infection (RTI) and wheezing/asthma prophylaxis. RECENT FINDINGS Nonspecific immunomodulators have a long history of empirical use for the prevention of RTIs in vulnerable populations, such as children. The past decade has seen an increase in both the number and quality of studies providing mechanistic and clinical evidence for the prophylactic potential of nonspecific immunomodulators against both respiratory infections and wheezing/asthma in the paediatric population. Orally administered immunomodulators result in the mounting of innate and adaptive immune responses to infection in the respiratory mucosa and anti-inflammatory effects in proinflammatory environments. Clinical data reflect these mechanistic effects in reductions in the recurrence of respiratory infections and wheezing events in high-risk paediatric populations. A new generation of clinical studies is currently underway with the power to position the nonspecific bacterial lysate immunomodulator OM-85 as a potential antiasthma prophylactic. SUMMARY An established mechanistic and clinical role for prophylaxis against paediatric respiratory infections by nonspecific immunomodulators exists. Clinical trials underway promise to provide high-quality data to establish whether a similar role exists in wheezing/asthma prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Manuel E. Soto-Martinez
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Nacional de Niños, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Wojciech Feleszko
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Allergy, The Medical University Children's Hospital, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Marcus H. Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Kun-Ling Shen
- Department of Respiratory Care, Beijing Children's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Urs B. Schaad
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University Children's Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
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Mantero M, Tarsia P, Gramegna A, Henchi S, Vanoni N, Di Pasquale M. Antibiotic therapy, supportive treatment and management of immunomodulation-inflammation response in community acquired pneumonia: review of recommendations. Multidiscip Respir Med 2017; 12:26. [PMID: 29034094 PMCID: PMC5628439 DOI: 10.1186/s40248-017-0106-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Community-acquired pneumonia is a common and serious disease, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Management and treatment of community-acquired pneumonia are described in three main documents: the 2007 American Thoracic Society guidelines, the 2011 European Respiratory Society guidelines, and the 2009 British Thoracic Society guidelines, updated by the NICE in 2015. Despite the validity of current guidelines in improving prognosis and management of patients with community-acquired pneumonia, not all recommendations have high levels of evidence and there are still some controversial issues. In particular, there are some areas of low evidence such as the efficacy of an antibiotic molecule or scheme in patients with same risk factors; duration of antibiotic treatment, supportive therapy for acute respiratory failure and immunomodulation molecules. This review will summarize the main recommendations with high level of evidence and discuss the recommendations with lower evidence, analyzing the studies published after the guidelines’ release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Mantero
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Tarsia
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Gramegna
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35 Milan, Italy
| | - Sonia Henchi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Vanoni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Di Pasquale
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Regional Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35 Milan, Italy
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