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Szűcs-Somlyó É, Lehel J, Májlinger K, Tóth F, Jerzsele Á, Kővágó C. Immune response to zinc oxide inhalation in metal fume fever, and the possible role of IL-17f. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22239. [PMID: 38097754 PMCID: PMC10721908 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49430-5] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Metal fume fever (MFF) is a work-related disease caused by the inhalation of metal particles, including zinc oxide. Chronic asthma may develop as a long-term consequence of exposure, particularly for welders and metal workers who are most at risk. In this study, we investigated the effects of ZnO fume inhalation on multiple inflammation-related cytokine- and cytokine receptor genes in mice from lung and lymph node samples, to explore the role of these in the pathogenesis of MFF. In our experiments, the animals were treated with a sub-toxic amount of ZnO fume for 4 h a day for 3 consecutive days. Sampling occurred 3 and 12 h post-treatment. We are the first to demonstrate that ZnO inhalation causes extremely increased levels of IL-17f gene expression at both sampling time points, in addition to increased gene expression rates of several other interleukins and cytokines, such as IL-4, IL-13, CXCL5, CSF-3, and IFN-γ. Our animal experiment provides new insights into the immunological processes of early metal fume fever development. IL-17f plays a crucial role in connecting immunological and oxidative stress events. The increased levels of IL-4 and IL-13 cytokines may explain the development of long-term allergic asthma after exposure to ZnO nanoparticles, which is well-known among welders, smelters, and metal workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éva Szűcs-Somlyó
- Department of Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Veterinary Medicine, Istvan str. 2., 1078, Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Lehel
- Department of Food Hygiene, University of Veterinary Medicine, Istvan str. 2., 1078, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Kornél Májlinger
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Bertalan Lajos str. 7., 1111, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-BME Lendület Composite Research Group, Bertalan Lajos str. 7., 1111, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fruzsina Tóth
- University of Veterinary Medicine, Istvan str. 2., 1078, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ákos Jerzsele
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Istvan Str. 2., 1078, Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Infectious Animal Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Veterinary Public Health and Food Chain Safety, University of Veterinary Medicine H-1078, Istvan str. 2., Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Kővágó
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Istvan Str. 2., 1078, Budapest, Hungary
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Ross MO, Xie Y, Owyang RC, Ye C, Zbihley ONP, Lyu R, Wu T, Wang P, Karginova O, Olopade OI, Zhao M, He C. PTPN2 copper-sensing rapidly relays copper level fluctuations into EGFR/CREB activation and associated CTR1 transcriptional repression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.29.555401. [PMID: 37693440 PMCID: PMC10491225 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.29.555401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Fluxes in human intra- and extracellular copper levels recently garnered attention for roles in cellular signaling, including affecting levels of the signaling molecule cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). We herein applied an unbiased temporal evaluation of the whole-genome transcriptional activities modulated by fluctuations in copper levels to identify the copper sensor proteins responsible for driving these activities. We found that fluctuations in physiologically-relevant copper levels rapidly modulate EGFR/MAPK/ERK signal transduction and activation of the transcription factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Both intracellular and extracellular assays support Cu 1+ inhibition of the EGFR-phosphatase PTPN2 (and potentially the homologous PTPN1)-via direct ligation to the PTPN2 active site cysteine side chain-as the underlying mechanism of copper-stimulated EGFR signal transduction activation. Depletion of copper represses this signaling pathway. We additionally show i ) copper supplementation drives transcriptional repression of the copper importer CTR1 and ii ) CREB activity is inversely correlated with CTR1 expression. In summary, our study reveals PTPN2 as a physiological copper sensor and defines a regulatory mechanism linking feedback control of copper-stimulated MAPK/ERK/CREB-signaling and CTR1 expression, thereby uncovering a previously unrecognized link between copper levels and cellular signal transduction.
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Krabbe J, Hansen C, Otte N, Kraus T. Short-term exposure to zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes: Effects on pulmonary function in humans. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2023; 78:127169. [PMID: 37004479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2023.127169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes typically induce a systemic inflammation indicated by increase in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, also known as welding fume fever. It typically includes symptoms like fever, myalgia or headaches, but only a quarter of patients experience respiratory symptoms, e.g. coughing. This retrospective analysis of data of three studies with either control (filtered air) or zinc- and copper-containing welding fume exposure aims to identify and characterize the effect of the welding fumes on lung function. Spirometry and body plethysmography data of male healthy volunteers were analyzed and comparisons between different timepoints after a 6 h exposure were conducted. For controls no significant changes in spirometry were observed between baseline and 6 h, 24 h and 1 week after exposure. For volunteers exposed to zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes no significant reductions in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and minimal reductions in vital capacity (VC) (52 ml, 0.9%) were detected after 6 h. After 24 h significant reductions in FEV1 (147 ml, 3.2%) and VC (162 ml, 2.9%) could be observed. 1 week after exposure FEV1 was still significantly reduced (102 ml, 2.1%) and airway resistance were increased while no differences in VC were detected. The reduction of FEV1% after 24 week significantly correlated with increases in CRP levels. In conclusion, a single exposure to zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes leads not only to a systemic inflammation but could also induce slight sustained airway constrictions after 24 h and 1 week. The observed slight airway constriction is not caused by immediate effects but possibly inflammatory processes. Although welding fume fever does not necessarily present respiratory symptoms, welders exposed to zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes should be monitored for respiratory symptoms and obstructive ventilation pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Krabbe
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Christine Hansen
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Nelly Otte
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Kraus
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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4
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Chemistry and lung toxicity of particulate matter emitted from firearms. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20722. [PMID: 36456643 PMCID: PMC9715551 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24856-5] [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: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Smoke emissions produced by firearms contain hazardous chemicals, but little is known if their properties change depending on firearm and ammunition type and whether such changes affect toxicity outcomes. Pulmonary toxicity was assessed in mice exposed by oropharyngeal aspiration to six different types of smoke-related particulate matter (PM) samples; (1) handgun PM, (2) rifle PM, (3) copper (Cu) particles (a surrogate for Cu in the rifle PM) with and without the Cu chelator penicillamine, (4) water-soluble components of the rifle PM, (5) soluble components with removal of metal ions, and (6) insoluble components of the rifle PM. Gun firing smoke PM was in the respirable size range but the chemical composition varied with high levels of Pb in the handgun and Cu in the rifle smoke. The handgun PM did not induce appreciable lung toxicity at 4 and 24 h post-exposure while the rifle PM significantly increased lung inflammation and reduced lung function. The same levels of pure Cu particles alone and the soluble components from the rifle fire PM increased neutrophil numbers but did not cause appreciable cellular damage or lung function changes when compared to the negative (saline) control. Penicillamine treated rifle PM or Cu, slightly reduced lung inflammation and injury but did not improve the lung function decrements. Chelation of the soluble metal ions from the rifle fire PM neutralized the lung toxicity while the insoluble components induced the lung toxicity to the same degree as the rifle PM. The results show that different firearm types can generate contrasting chemical spectra in their emissions and that the rifle PM effects were mostly driven by water-insoluble components containing high levels of Cu. These findings provide better knowledge of hazardous substances in gun firing smoke and their potential toxicological profile.
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Krabbe J, Kraus T, Krabbe H, Martin C, Ziegler P. Welding Fume Instillation in Isolated Perfused Mouse Lungs-Effects of Zinc- and Copper-Containing Welding Fumes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169052. [PMID: 36012318 PMCID: PMC9408907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes can cause systemic inflammation after exposure in humans. Recent ex vivo studies have shown that the observed inflammation originates from exposed immune cells. In vitro studies identified the soluble fraction of metal particles as the main effectors. Isolated perfused mouse lungs (IPLs) were perfused and ventilated for 270 min. Lungs were instilled with saline solution (control), welding fume particle suspension (WFs) or the soluble fraction of the welding fumes (SF-WFs). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and perfusate samples were analyzed for cytokine levels and lung tissue mRNA expression levels were analyzed via RT-PCR. All lungs instilled with WFs did not complete the experiments due to a fatal reduction in tidal volume. Accordingly, IL-6 and MPO levels were significantly higher in BALF of WF lungs compared to the control. IL-6 and MPO mRNA expression levels were also increased for WFs. Lungs instilled with SF-WFs only showed mild reactions in tidal volume, with BALF and mRNA expression levels not significantly differing from the control. Zinc- and copper-containing welding fume particles adversely affect IPLs when instilled, as evidenced by the fatal loss in tidal volume and increased cytokine expression and secretion. The effects are mainly caused by the particles, not by the soluble fraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Krabbe
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-241-8035028; Fax: +49-241-8082587
| | - Thomas Kraus
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Hanif Krabbe
- European Vascular Centre Aachen-Maastricht, Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical Faculty, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Martin
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Patrick Ziegler
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Chillon TS, Maares M, Demircan K, Hackler J, Sun Q, Heller RA, Diegmann J, Bachmann M, Moghaddam A, Haase H, Schomburg L. Serum Free Zinc Is Associated With Vaccination Response to SARS-CoV-2. Front Immunol 2022; 13:906551. [PMID: 35844578 PMCID: PMC9280661 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.906551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element with high relevance for the immune system, and its deficiency is associated with elevated infection risk and severe disease course. The association of Zn status with the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is unknown. Methods A cohort of adult health care workers (n=126) received two doses of BNT162B2, and provided up to four serum samples over a time course of 6 months. Total SARS-CoV-2 IgG and neutralizing antibody potency was determined, along with total as well as free Zn concentrations. Results The SARS-CoV-2 antibodies showed the expected rise in response to vaccination, and decreased toward the last sampling point, with highest levels measured three weeks after the second dose. Total serum Zn concentrations were relatively stable over time, and showed no significant association with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Baseline total serum Zn concentration and supplemental intake of Zn were both unrelated to the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Time resolved analysis of free Zn indicated a similar dynamic as the humoral response. A positive correlation was observed between free Zn concentrations and both the induced antibodies and neutralizing antibody potency. Conclusion While the biomarkers of Zn status and supplemental Zn intake appeared unrelated to the humoral immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, the observed correlation of free Zn to the induced antibodies indicates a diagnostic value of this novel biomarker for the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Samson Chillon
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Maares
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kamil Demircan
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julian Hackler
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Qian Sun
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raban A. Heller
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Bundeswehr Hospital Berlin, Clinic of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Berlin, Germany
- Department of General Practice and Health Services Research, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Diegmann
- Aschaffenburg Trauma and Orthopaedic Research Group (ATORG), Center for Orthopaedics, Trauma Surgery and Sports Medicine, Hospital Aschaffenburg-Alzenau, Aschaffenburg, Germany
| | - Manuel Bachmann
- Aschaffenburg Trauma and Orthopaedic Research Group (ATORG), Center for Orthopaedics, Trauma Surgery and Sports Medicine, Hospital Aschaffenburg-Alzenau, Aschaffenburg, Germany
| | | | - Hajo Haase
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Lutz Schomburg, ; Hajo Haase,
| | - Lutz Schomburg
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Lutz Schomburg, ; Hajo Haase,
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Which ones, when and why should renin-angiotensin system inhibitors work against COVID-19? Adv Biol Regul 2021; 81:100820. [PMID: 34419773 PMCID: PMC8359569 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2021.100820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The article describes the possible pathophysiological origin of COVID-19 and the crucial role of renin-angiotensin system (RAS), providing several “converging” evidence in support of this hypothesis. SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to initially upregulate ACE2 systemic activity (early phase), which can subsequently induce compensatory responses leading to upregulation of both arms of the RAS (late phase) and consequently to critical, advanced and untreatable stages of COVID-19 disease. The main and initial actors of the process are ACE2 and ADAM17 zinc-metalloproteases, which, initially triggered by SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, work together in increasing circulating Ang 1–7 and Ang 1–9 peptides and downstream (Mas and Angiotensin type 2 receptors) pathways with anti-inflammatory, hypotensive and antithrombotic activities. During the late phase of severe COVID-19, compensatory secretion of renin and ACE enzymes are subsequently upregulated, leading to inflammation, hypertension and thrombosis, which further sustain ACE2 and ADAM17 upregulation. Based on this hypothesis, COVID-19-phase-specific inhibition of different RAS enzymes is proposed as a pharmacological strategy against COVID-19 and vaccine-induced adverse effects. The aim is to prevent the establishment of positive feedback-loops, which can sustain hyperactivity of both arms of the RAS independently of viral trigger and, in some cases, may lead to Long-COVID syndrome.
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Elfsmark L, Ekstrand-Hammarström B, Forsgren N, Lejon C, Hägglund L, Wingfors H. Characterization of toxicological effects of complex nano-sized metal particles using in vitro human cell and whole blood model systems. J Appl Toxicol 2021; 42:203-215. [PMID: 34050537 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4202] [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: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Metal oxide fumes form at high temperatures, for instance, during welding or firing ammunition. Inhalation exposure to high levels of airborne metal oxide particles can cause metal fume fever, cardiovascular effects, and lung damage in humans, but the associated underlying pathological mechanisms are still not fully understood. Using human alveolar epithelial cells, vascular endothelial cells, and whole blood model systems, we aimed to elucidate the short-term effects of well-characterized metal particles emitted while firing pistol ammunition. Human lung epithelial cells exposed to gunshot smoke particles (0.1-50 μg/ml) produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 8 (IL-8), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)) that activate and recruit immune cells. Particles comprising high copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) content activated human endothelial cells via a non-ROS-mediated mechanism that triggered immune activation (IL-8, GM-CSF), leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium (soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (sICAM-1)), and secretion of regulators of the acute-phase protein synthesis (interleukin 6 (IL-6)). In human whole blood, metal oxides in gunshot smoke demonstrated intrinsic properties that activated platelets (release of soluble cluster of differentiation 40 ligand (sCD40L), platelet-derived growth factor B-chain homodimer(PDGF-BB), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A)) and blood coagulation and induced concomitant release of pro-inflammatory cytokines from blood leukocytes that further orchestrate thrombogenesis. The model systems applied provide useful tools for health risk assessment of particle exposures, but more studies are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of metal fume fever and to evaluate the potential risk of long-term cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Elfsmark
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Nina Forsgren
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Christian Lejon
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lars Hägglund
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Håkan Wingfors
- CBRN Defence and Security, Swedish Defence Research Agency, Umeå, Sweden
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9
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Zamai L. Upregulation of the Renin-Angiotensin System Pathways and SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The Rationale for the Administration of Zinc-Chelating Agents in COVID-19 Patients. Cells 2021; 10:506. [PMID: 33673459 PMCID: PMC7997276 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The article describes the rationale for the administration of zinc-chelating agents in COVID-19 patients. In a previous work I have highlighted that the binding of the SARS-CoV spike proteins to the zinc-metalloprotease ACE2 has been shown to induce ACE2 shedding by activating the zinc-metalloprotease ADAM17, which ultimately leads to systemic upregulation of ACE2 activity. Moreover, based on experimental models, it was also shown the detrimental effect of the excessive systemic activity of ACE2 through its downstream pathways, which leads to "clinical" manifestations resembling COVID-19. In this regard, strong upregulation of circulating ACE2 activity was recently reported in COVID-19 patients, thus supporting the previous hypothesis that COVID-19 may derive from upregulation of ACE2 activity. Based on this, a reasonable hypothesis of using inhibitors that curb the upregulation of both ACE2 and ADAM17 zinc-metalloprotease activities and consequent positive feedback-loops (initially triggered by SARS-CoV-2 and subsequently sustained independently on viral trigger) is proposed as therapy for COVID-19. In particular, zinc-chelating agents such as citrate and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) alone or in combination are expected to act in protecting from COVID-19 at different levels thanks to their both anticoagulant properties and inhibitory activity on zinc-metalloproteases. Several arguments are presented in support of this hypothesis and based on the current knowledge of both beneficial/harmful effects and cost/effectiveness, the use of chelating agents in the prevention and therapy of COVID-19 is proposed. In this regard, clinical trials (currently absent) employing citrate/EDTA in COVID-19 are urgently needed in order to shed more light on the efficacy of zinc chelators against SARS-CoV-2 infection in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris Zamai
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy;
- National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN)-Gran Sasso National Laboratory (LNGS), Assergi, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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Das A, Habib G, Vivekanandan P, Kumar A. Reactive oxygen species production and inflammatory effects of ambient PM 2.5 -associated metals on human lung epithelial A549 cells "one year-long study": The Delhi chapter. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 262:128305. [PMID: 33182158 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was collected at academic campus of Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India from January-December 2017. The PM2.5 samples were analysed for carcinogenic (Cd, Cr, As, Ni, and Pb) and non-carcinogenic (V, Cu, Zn, Fe) trace metals and their elicited effects on carcinoma epithelial cell line A549. Toxicological testing was done with ELISA kit. Same analyses were repeated for standard reference material (NIST-1648a) represents urban particulate matter. The student-t test and spearman correlation were used for data analysis. The seasonality in PM2.5 mass concentration and chemical composition showed effect on biological outcomes. The PM2.5 in post-monsoon and winter had higher amount of trace metals compared to mass collected in pre-monsoon and monsoon. Following the trend in PM mass concentration significantly (p < 0.5) lower cell viability was observed in post-monsoon and winter compared to other two seasons. NIST UPM 1648(a) samples always had higher cytotoxicity compared to ambient PM2.5 Delhi sample. Strong association of Chromium, Nickel, Cadmium, and Zinc was observed with cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In winter IL-6, IL-8 production were 2.8 and 3 times higher than values observed in post-monsoon and 53 and 9 times higher than control. In winter season trace metals As, Cu, Fe, in pre-monsoon Cr, Ni, As, Pb, V, and Fe, in post-monsoon Cd and V strongly correlated with ROS generation. ROS production in winter and pre-monsoon seasons found to be 2.6 and 1.3 times higher than extremely polluted post-monsoon season which had 2 to 3 times higher PM2.5 concentration compared to winter and pre-monsoon. The result clearly indicated that the presence of Fe in winter and pre-monsoon seasons catalysed the ROS production, probably OH˙ radical caused high cytokines production which influenced the cell viability reduction, while in post-monsoon PM majorly composed of Pb, As, Fe and Cu and affected by photochemical smog formation showed significant association between ROS production with cell viability. Overall, in Delhi most toxic seasons for respiratory system are winter and post-monsoon and safest season is monsoon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananya Das
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India.
| | - Gazala Habib
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India.
| | - Perumal Vivekanandan
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India.
| | - Arun Kumar
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India.
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11
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The Effects of Exposure Time on Systemic Inflammation in Subjects With Exposure to Zinc- and Copper-Containing Brazing Fumes. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 61:806-811. [PMID: 31348430 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inhalation of copper and zinc containing brazing fumes (2.5 mg/m for 6 hours) is able to induce asymptomatic systemic inflammation which is supposed to be connected with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. In this study it was investigated if inflammation can be prevented by reducing the exposure time. METHODS A total of 15 healthy male subjects were exposed to such brazing fumes in a crossover design for 3, 4, and 5 hours in randomized order. Before and 24 hours after exposure, blood samples were taken and c-reactive protein (CRP) as marker for an acute phase reaction was measured. RESULTS Five-hour exposure induced an increase of CRP, whereas the shorter exposure times did not result in a significant inflammatory reaction. CONCLUSIONS Reducing daily exposure times below 5 hours is able to prevent systemic inflammatory reactions.
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12
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No Observed Effect Level (NOEL) for Systemic Inflammation by Copper and Zinc in Welding Fumes. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 62:718-723. [PMID: 32890210 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
: Copper and zinc containing welding fumes are able to induce systemic inflammation in healthy subjects. In this study the no observed effect levels (NOEL) for welding fumes containing either copper or zinc were assessed.Fifteen healthy male volunteers participated in an exposure. Each subject was exposed to two different concentrations of both, copper and zinc containing welding fumes. Exposure was performed in the Aachen Workplace Simulation Lab.The NOEL was found at metal concentrations between 0.2 and 0.3 mg/m for copper and between 0.8 and 1.2 mg/m for zinc.The NOEL identified in this study was about a factor of 10 higher than the German workplace threshold limit values (TLV). However, TLV in other countries was in the same range or even higher than the NOEL indicating a considerable risk for workers.
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13
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Zamai L. The Yin and Yang of ACE/ACE2 Pathways: The Rationale for the Use of Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors in COVID-19 Patients. Cells 2020; 9:E1704. [PMID: 32708755 PMCID: PMC7408073 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The article describes the rationale for inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) pathways as specific targets in patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 in order to prevent positive feedback-loop mechanisms. Based purely on experimental studies in which RAS pathway inhibitors were administered in vivo to humans/rodents, a reasonable hypothesis of using inhibitors that block both ACE and ACE2 zinc metalloproteases and their downstream pathways in COVID-19 patients will be proposed. In particular, metal (zinc) chelators and renin inhibitors may work alone or in combination to inhibit the positive feedback loops (initially triggered by SARS-CoV-2 and subsequently sustained by hypoxia independently on viral trigger) as both arms of renin-angiotensin system are upregulated, leading to critical, advanced and untreatable stages of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris Zamai
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61032 Urbino, Italy; ; Tel.: +39-0722-304319
- INFN-Gran Sasso National Laboratory, Assergi, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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Increased Neutrophil Granulocyte and Myeloperoxidase Levels Indicate Acute Inflammation Due to the Exposure of Zinc- and Copper-Containing Welding Fumes. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 62:618-627. [PMID: 32404823 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent studies have shown an increase of C-reactive-protein (CRP) after exposure to zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of exposure to zinc- and copper-containing welding fumes on leukocytes, their subtypes, and myeloperoxidase (MPO). METHODS Serum samples of male volunteers were examined after exposures to welding fumes in two settings: repeated exposure on 4 consecutive days for 6 hours and single exposures for different times (3, 4, 5 hours). RESULTS Neutrophil granulocyte and MPO levels showed increases 24 hours after single and repeated exposures for 6 hours similar to CRP increases reported in literature. Overall leukocyte levels and levels of monocytes and lymphocytes were not significantly affected. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates the involvement of neutrophil granulocytes in welding fume fever additional to mediator related effects.
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15
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Sunzini F, De Stefano S, Chimenti MS, Melino S. Hydrogen Sulfide as Potential Regulatory Gasotransmitter in Arthritic Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041180. [PMID: 32053981 PMCID: PMC7072783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [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: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The social and economic impact of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, explains the growing interest of the research in this field. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the endogenous gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) were recently demonstrated in the context of different inflammatory diseases. In particular, H2S is able to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory mediations by lymphocytes and innate immunity cells. Considering these biological effects of H2S, a potential role in the treatment of inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), can be postulated. However, despite the growing interest in H2S, more evidence is needed to understand the pathophysiology and the potential of H2S as a therapeutic agent. Within this review, we provide an overview on H2S biological effects, on its role in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, on H2S releasing drugs, and on systems of tissue repair and regeneration that are currently under investigation for potential therapeutic applications in arthritic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Sunzini
- Institute of Infection Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, 120 University, Glasgow G31 8TA, UK;
- Rheumatology, Allergology and clinical immunology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via Montpelier, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Susanna De Stefano
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Sole Chimenti
- Rheumatology, Allergology and clinical immunology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via Montpelier, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sonia Melino
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0672594410
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Khan IM, Niazi S, Iqbal Khan MK, Pasha I, Mohsin A, Haider J, Iqbal MW, Rehman A, Yue L, Wang Z. Recent advances and perspectives of aggregation-induced emission as an emerging platform for detection and bioimaging. Trends Analyt Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2019.115637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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