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Gil da Costa RM, Povey A, Medeiros-Fonseca B, Ramwell C, O'Driscoll C, Williams D, Hansen HCB, Rasmussen LH, Fletcher MT, O'Connor P, Bradshaw RHW, Robinson R, Mason J. Sixty years of research on bracken fern (Pteridium spp.) toxins: Environmental exposure, health risks and recommendations for bracken fern control. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 257:119274. [PMID: 38821456 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Bracken fern (Pteridium spp.) is a highly problematic plant worldwide due to its toxicity in combination with invasive properties on former farmland, in deforested areas and on disturbed natural habitats. The carcinogenic potential of bracken ferns has caused scientific and public concern for six decades. Its genotoxic effects are linked to illudane-type glycosides (ITGs), their aglycons and derivatives. Ptaquiloside is considered the dominating ITG, but with significant contributions from other ITGs. The present review aims to compile evidence regarding environmental pollution by bracken fern ITGs, in the context of their human and animal health implications. The ITG content in bracken fern exhibits substantial spatial, temporal, and chemotaxonomic variation. Consumption of bracken fern as food is linked to human gastric cancer but also causes urinary bladder cancers in bovines browsing on bracken. Genotoxic metabolites are found in milk and meat from bracken fed animals. ITG exposure may also take place via contaminated water with recent data pointing to concentrations at microgram/L-level following rain events. Airborne ITG-exposure from spores and dust has also been documented. ITGs may synergize with major biological and environmental carcinogens like papillomaviruses and Helicobacter pylori to induce cancer, revealing novel instances of chemical and biological co-carcinogenesis. Thus, the emerging landscape from six decades of bracken research points towards a global environmental problem with increasingly complex health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui M Gil da Costa
- Department od Morphology, Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís, 65080-805, Brazil; Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering (ALiCE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072, Porto, Portugal; Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Andrew Povey
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Beatriz Medeiros-Fonseca
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072, Porto, Portugal; Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Carmel Ramwell
- Fera Science Ltd, York Biotech Campus, Sand Hutton, York, YO41 1LZ, UK
| | - Connie O'Driscoll
- Ryan Hanley Consulting Engineers Ltd., 1 Galway Business Park, Dangan, Galway, H91 A3EF, Ireland
| | - David Williams
- Centre for Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Sheffield Institute for Nucleic Acids, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S3 7HF, UK
| | - Hans Chr B Hansen
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Lars Holm Rasmussen
- Novonesis, Microbe & Culture Research, Bøge Allé 10-12, DK- 2970, Hørsholm, Denmark
| | - Mary T Fletcher
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, Health, and Food Science Precinct, 39 Kessels Road, Coopers Plains, QLD, 4108, Australia
| | - Peter O'Connor
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Richard H W Bradshaw
- Department of Geography and Planning, School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, L69 7ZT, UK
| | | | - James Mason
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
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Malík M, Mika OJ, Navrátilová Z, Killi UK, Tlustoš P, Patočka J. Health and Environmental Hazards of the Toxic Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn (Bracken Fern). PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:18. [PMID: 38202326 PMCID: PMC10780724 DOI: 10.3390/plants13010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn) is ubiquitous and acts as a cosmopolitan weed in pastures and similar environments. Despite its historical uses, it presents risks due to toxicity. This study, conducted in the second half of 2023, aimed to assess the environmental and health hazards of P. aquilinum, primarily focusing on its carcinogenic compound, ptaquiloside. The literature was comprehensively reviewed using diverse databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Information was synthesized from original research articles, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and relevant animal studies. Animals grazing on bracken fern face annual production losses due to toxin exposure. The substantial impact on biodiversity, animal health, and human well-being arises from the presence of ptaquiloside and related compounds in milk, meat, and water, along with the increasing global prevalence of P. aquilinum and its swift colonization in acidic soil and fire-damaged areas. The objectives were to identify major bioactive compounds and explore their effects at molecular, cellular, pathological, and population levels. Various cooking techniques were considered to mitigate toxin exposure, although complete elimination remains unattainable. Therefore, the findings emphasize the need for cautious consumption. In conclusion, continued research is necessary to better understand and manage its environmental and health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matěj Malík
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Praha 6-Suchdol, Czech Republic; (M.M.); (P.T.)
| | - Otakar Jiří Mika
- Department of Crisis Management, Faculty of Security Management, Police Academy of the Czech Republic, Lhotecká 559/7, 143 01 Praha 4, Czech Republic
- Department of Radiology, Toxicology and Civil Protection, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of South Bohemia, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (U.K.K.); (J.P.)
| | - Zdeňka Navrátilová
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 433/2, 128 00 Praha 2, Czech Republic;
| | - Uday Kumar Killi
- Department of Radiology, Toxicology and Civil Protection, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of South Bohemia, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (U.K.K.); (J.P.)
| | - Pavel Tlustoš
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Praha 6-Suchdol, Czech Republic; (M.M.); (P.T.)
| | - Jiří Patočka
- Department of Radiology, Toxicology and Civil Protection, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of South Bohemia, J. Boreckého 1167/27, 370 11 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (U.K.K.); (J.P.)
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, Hradecká 1285, 500 03 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
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Characterization of the Human Papillomavirus 16 Oncogenes in K14HPV16 Mice: Sublineage A1 Drives Multi-Organ Carcinogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012371. [PMID: 36293226 PMCID: PMC9604181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced carcinogenesis uses multiple in vivo mouse models, one of which relies on the cytokeratin 14 gene promoter to drive the expression of all HPV early oncogenes. This study aimed to determine the HPV16 variant and sublineage present in the K14HPV16 mouse model. This information can be considered of great importance to further enhance this K14HPV16 model as an essential research tool and optimize its use for basic and translational studies. Our study evaluated HPV DNA from 17 samples isolated from 4 animals, both wild-type (n = 2) and HPV16-transgenic mice (n = 2). Total DNA was extracted from tissues and the detection of HPV16 was performed using a qPCR multiplex. HPV16-positive samples were subsequently whole-genome sequenced by next-generation sequencing techniques. The phylogenetic positioning clearly shows K14HPV16 samples clustering together in the sub-lineage A1 (NC001526.4). A comparative genome analysis of K14HPV16 samples revealed three mutations to the human papillomaviruses type 16 sublineage A1 representative strain. Knowledge of the HPV 16 variant is fundamental, and these findings will allow the rational use of this animal model to explore the role of the A1 sublineage in HPV-driven cancer.
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Kobets T, Smith BPC, Williams GM. Food-Borne Chemical Carcinogens and the Evidence for Human Cancer Risk. Foods 2022; 11:foods11182828. [PMID: 36140952 PMCID: PMC9497933 DOI: 10.3390/foods11182828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Commonly consumed foods and beverages can contain chemicals with reported carcinogenic activity in rodent models. Moreover, exposures to some of these substances have been associated with increased cancer risks in humans. Food-borne carcinogens span a range of chemical classes and can arise from natural or anthropogenic sources, as well as form endogenously. Important considerations include the mechanism(s) of action (MoA), their relevance to human biology, and the level of exposure in diet. The MoAs of carcinogens have been classified as either DNA-reactive (genotoxic), involving covalent reaction with nuclear DNA, or epigenetic, involving molecular and cellular effects other than DNA reactivity. Carcinogens are generally present in food at low levels, resulting in low daily intakes, although there are some exceptions. Carcinogens of the DNA-reactive type produce effects at lower dosages than epigenetic carcinogens. Several food-related DNA-reactive carcinogens, including aflatoxins, aristolochic acid, benzene, benzo[a]pyrene and ethylene oxide, are recognized by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as causes of human cancer. Of the epigenetic type, the only carcinogen considered to be associated with increased cancer in humans, although not from low-level food exposure, is dioxin (TCDD). Thus, DNA-reactive carcinogens in food represent a much greater risk than epigenetic carcinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetyana Kobets
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-914-594-3105; Fax: +1-914-594-4163
| | - Benjamin P. C. Smith
- Future Ready Food Safety Hub, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Gary M. Williams
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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Almeida J, Ferreira T, Santos S, Pires MJ, da Costa RMG, Medeiros R, Bastos MM, Neuparth MJ, Faustino-Rocha AI, Abreu H, Pereira R, Pacheco M, Gaivão I, Rosa E, Oliveira PA. The Red Seaweed Grateloupia turuturu Prevents Epidermal Dysplasia in HPV16-Transgenic Mice. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124529. [PMID: 34960081 PMCID: PMC8707361 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of dietary profiles in promoting or reducing the risk of multiple types of cancer is increasingly clear, driving the search for balanced foods and nutraceuticals. The red seaweed Grateloupia turuturu has been used as human food showing a balanced nutritional profile. This study aims to test in vivo chemopreventive effects of G. turuturu against cutaneous pre-malignant lesions in transgenic mice for the human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16). Forty-four female HPV+/− or HPV−/− mice received a standard diet or were supplemented with 10% G. turuturu for 22 consecutive days. Cutaneous lesions (ear and chest skin) were identified histologically. Complementarily, the weights and histology of internal organs as well as blood biochemical and DNA integrity parameters were also assessed. G. turuturu consistently reduced the incidence of epidermal dysplasia induced by HPV16 on both cutaneous sites. Moreover, biochemical, DNA integrity and histological analyses confirmed G. turuturu edibility as no signs of toxicity were found. Dietary supplementation with G. turuturu is an effective and safe chemopreventive strategy in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Almeida
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.A.); (T.F.); (S.S.); (M.J.P.); (A.I.F.-R.)
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Tiago Ferreira
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.A.); (T.F.); (S.S.); (M.J.P.); (A.I.F.-R.)
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Susana Santos
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.A.); (T.F.); (S.S.); (M.J.P.); (A.I.F.-R.)
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Maria J. Pires
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.A.); (T.F.); (S.S.); (M.J.P.); (A.I.F.-R.)
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Rui M. Gil da Costa
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
- Maranhão Tumour and DNA Biobank (BTMA), Post-graduate Programme in Adult Health (PPGSAD), Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65080-805, Brazil
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal;
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto. CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto. CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- CEBIMED, Faculty of Health Sciences, Fernando Pessoa University, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal
- LPCC Research Department, Portuguese League against Cancer (NRNorte), 4200-172 Porto, Portugal
| | - Margarida M.S.M. Bastos
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Maria J. Neuparth
- Research Center in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (CIAFEL), Faculty of Sports, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies (IINFACTS), Advanced Polytechnic and University Cooperative (CESPU), 4585 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Ana I. Faustino-Rocha
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.A.); (T.F.); (S.S.); (M.J.P.); (A.I.F.-R.)
- Department of Zootechnics, School of Sciences and Technology, 7000-671 Évora, Portugal
| | - Helena Abreu
- ALGAplus, Lda., PCI-Creative Science Park, 3830-352 Ílhavo, Portugal; (H.A.); (R.P.)
| | - Rui Pereira
- ALGAplus, Lda., PCI-Creative Science Park, 3830-352 Ílhavo, Portugal; (H.A.); (R.P.)
- A4F Algae for Future, Estrada do Paço do Lumiar, Campus do Lumiar, Edif. E, R/C, 1649-038 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mário Pacheco
- Portugal CESAM—Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies and Department of Biology, Santiago University Campus, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Isabel Gaivão
- Department of Genetic and Biotechnology, CECAV, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Eduardo Rosa
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
- Department of Agronomy, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Paula A. Oliveira
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.A.); (T.F.); (S.S.); (M.J.P.); (A.I.F.-R.)
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (R.M.G.d.C.); (E.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-259350000; Fax: +351-259325058
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Differential Incidence of Tongue Base Cancer in Male and Female HPV16-Transgenic Mice: Role of Female Sex Hormone Receptors. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101224. [PMID: 34684173 PMCID: PMC8539196 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing proportion of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC) are associated with infection by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). For reasons that remain largely unknown, HPV+OPSCC is significantly more common in men than in women. This study aims to determine the incidence of OPSCC in male and female HPV16-transgenic mice and to explore the role of female sex hormone receptors in the sexual predisposition for HPV+ OPSCC. The tongues of 30-weeks-old HPV16-transgenic male (n = 80) and female (n = 90) and matched wild-type male (n = 10) and female (n = 10) FVB/n mice were screened histologically for intraepithelial and invasive lesions in 2017 at the Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Portugal. Expression of estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ), progesterone receptors (PR) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) was studied immunohistochemically. Collagen remodeling was studied using picrosirius red. Female mice showed robust ERα and ERβ expression in intraepithelial and invasive lesions, which was accompanied by strong MMP2 expression and marked collagen remodeling. Male mice showed minimal ERα, ERβ and MMP2 expression and unaltered collagen patterns. These results confirm the association of HPV16 with tongue base cancer in both sexes. The higher cancer incidence in female versus male mice contrasts with data from OPSCC patients and is associated with enhanced ER expression via MMP2 upregulation.
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Medeiros-Fonseca B, Cubilla A, Brito H, Martins T, Medeiros R, Oliveira P, Gil da Costa RM. Experimental Models for Studying HPV-Positive and HPV-Negative Penile Cancer: New Tools for An Old Disease. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030460. [PMID: 33530343 PMCID: PMC7865362 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030460] [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: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Penile cancer is an uncommon and understudied malignancy that is most commonly diagnosed in developing countries. Therapeutic advances have been slow, in part due to the lack of in vitro and in vivo models for testing new drugs before performing clinical trials. Recently, this difficulty has been partly overcome and multiple new pre-clinical models were reported. These important developments will help develop new therapies for penile cancer patients. The present review summarizes and discusses the available data concerning the pre-clinical models of penile cancer and their uses. Comparisons are drawn between different models, allowing researchers to choose the most adequate setting for their experiments. The remaining gaps in this array of penile cancer models are also discussed, in particular the lack of models for studying metastatic disease and cell lines representing tumors associated with human papillomavirus. Abstract Penile cancer is an uncommon malignancy that occurs most frequently in developing countries. Two pathways for penile carcinogenesis are currently recognized: one driven by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and another HPV-independent route, associated with chronic inflammation. Progress on the clinical management of this disease has been slow, partly due to the lack of preclinical models for translational research. However, exciting recent developments are changing this landscape, with new in vitro and in vivo models becoming available. These include mouse models for HPV+ and HPV− penile cancer and multiple cell lines representing HPV− lesions. The present review addresses these new advances, summarizing available models, comparing their characteristics and potential uses and discussing areas that require further improvement. Recent breakthroughs achieved using these models are also discussed, particularly those developments pertaining to HPV-driven cancer. Two key aspects that still require improvement are the establishment of cell lines that can represent HPV+ penile carcinomas and the development of mouse models to study metastatic disease. Overall, the growing array of in vitro and in vivo models for penile cancer provides new and useful tools for researchers in the field and is expected to accelerate pre-clinical research on this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Medeiros-Fonseca
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (B.M.-F.); (T.M.); (P.O.)
| | - Antonio Cubilla
- Instituto de Patología e Investigación and Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Asunción, Paraguay;
| | - Haissa Brito
- Maranhão Tumour and DNA Biobank (BTMA), Post-graduate Programme in Adult Health (PPGSAD), Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65080-805, Brazil;
| | - Tânia Martins
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (B.M.-F.); (T.M.); (P.O.)
- Veterinary Sciences Department, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, CI-IPOP, IPO-Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Virology Service, IPO-Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Biomedicine Research Center (CEBIMED), Faculty of Health Sciences, Fernando Pessoa University, 4249-004 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Oliveira
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (B.M.-F.); (T.M.); (P.O.)
- Veterinary Sciences Department, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Rui M. Gil da Costa
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (B.M.-F.); (T.M.); (P.O.)
- Maranhão Tumour and DNA Biobank (BTMA), Post-graduate Programme in Adult Health (PPGSAD), Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65080-805, Brazil;
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, CI-IPOP, IPO-Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-9132728000
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A Novel Method for Determination of the Natural Toxin Ptaquiloside in Ground and Drinking Water. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12102852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ptaquiloside (PTA) is a carcinogenic compound naturally occurring in bracken ferns (Pteridium aquilinum). It is highly water soluble and prone to leaching from topsoil to surface and groundwaters. Due to possible human exposure via drinking water, PTA is considered as an emerging contaminant. We present a sensitive and robust method for analysis of PTA and its degradation product pterosin B (PtB) in groundwater. The method comprises two steps: sample preservation at the field site followed by sample pre-concentration in the laboratory. The preservation step was developed by applying a Plackett–Burman experimental design testing the following variables: water type, pH, filtering, bottle type, storage temperature, transportation conditions and test time. The best sample preservation was obtained by using amber glass bottles, unfiltered solutions buffered at pH 6, transported without ice, stored at 4 °C and analysed within 48 h. The recovery was 94% to 100%. The sample purification step had a pre-concentration factor of 250, and the recovery percentages of the entire method were 85 ± 2 (PTA) and 91 ± 3 (PtB). The limits of detection (LOD) of the full method were 0.001 µg L−1 and 0.0001 µg L−1 for PTA and PtB, respectively. The method enables sensitive monitoring of PTA and PtB in groundwater. Carcinogenic PTA was detected in one groundwater well (0.35 µg L−1).
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Human Papillomavirus 16-Transgenic Mice as a Model to Study Cancer-Associated Cachexia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145020. [PMID: 32708666 PMCID: PMC7404304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by general inflammation, weight loss and muscle wasting, partly mediated by ubiquitin ligases such as atrogin-1, encoded by Fbxo32. Cancers induced by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) include anogenital cancers and some head-and-neck cancers and are often associated with cachexia. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of cancer cachexia in HPV16-transgenic mice with or without exposure to the chemical carcinogen 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA). Male mice expressing the HPV16 early region under the control of the cytokeratin 14 gene promoter (K14-HPV16; HPV+) and matched wild-type mice (HPV-) received DMBA (or vehicle) topically over 17 weeks of the experiment. Food intake and body weight were assessed weekly. The gastrocnemius weights and Fbxo32 expression levels were quantified at sacrifice time. HPV-16-associated lesions in different anatomic regions were classified histologically. Although unexposed HPV+ mice showed higher food intake than wild-type matched group (p < 0.01), they presented lower body weights (p < 0.05). This body weight trend was more pronounced when comparing DMBA-exposed groups (p < 0.01). The same pattern was observed in the gastrocnemius weights (between the unexposed groups: p < 0.05; between the exposed groups: p < 0.001). Importantly, DMBA reduced body and gastrocnemius weights (p < 0.01) when comparing the HPV+ groups. Moreover, the Fbxo32 gene was overexpressed in DMBA-exposed HPV+ compared to control mice (p < 0.05). These results show that K14-HPV16 mice closely reproduce the anatomic and molecular changes associated with cancer cachexia and may be a good model for preclinical studies concerning the pathogenesis of this syndrome.
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Ribeiro DDSF, Keller KM, Soto-Blanco B. Ptaquiloside and Pterosin B Levels in Mature Green Fronds and Sprouts of Pteridium arachnoideum. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12050288. [PMID: 32369939 PMCID: PMC7291230 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12050288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pteridium arachnoideum, a fern of the Pteridium aquilinum species complex found in South America, is responsible for several different syndromes of poisoning. Cases of bovine enzootic hematuria and upper alimentary squamous cell carcinoma are both frequent occurrences in Brazil, whereas only bovine enzootic hematuria is noted with any frequency around the world. The reason for the high frequency of upper alimentary squamous cell carcinoma in Brazil is not currently known. One possible explanation may be the higher levels of ptaquiloside and pterosin B in Brazilian Pteridium than those present in the plant in other countries. However, these levels have not yet been determined in P. arachnoideum. Thus, the present study aimed to measure and compare ptaquiloside and pterosin B levels in mature green fronds and sprouts of P. arachnoideum collected from different locations in Brazil. Samples of P. arachnoideum were collected from the states of Minas Gerais and Rio Grande do Sul. A total of 28 mature leaf samples and 23 sprout samples were used. The mean concentrations of ptaquiloside and pterosin B present in the mature green fronds of P. arachnoideum ranged from 2.49 to 2.75 mg/g and 0.68 to 0.88 mg/g, respectively; in P. arachnoideum sprouts, mean concentrations of ptaquiloside and pterosin B ranged from 12.47 to 18.81 mg/g, and 4.03 to 10.42 mg/g for ptaquiloside and pterosin B, respectively. Thus, ptaquiloside and pterosin B levels in P. arachnoideum samples collected in Brazil were higher in sprouts than in mature green fronds, as observed in other countries. However, there was no variation in ptaquiloside levels among plants collected from different cities in Brazil. The high frequency of upper alimentary squamous cell carcinoma in Brazilian cattle may not be attributed to greater levels of ptaquiloside and pterosin B in P. arachnoideum than in other Pteridium species in other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelly Moura Keller
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte MG 30123-970, Brasil;
| | - Benito Soto-Blanco
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte MG 30123-970, Brasil
- Correspondence:
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