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Petran EM, Periferakis A, Troumpata L, Periferakis AT, Scheau AE, Badarau IA, Periferakis K, Caruntu A, Savulescu-Fiedler I, Sima RM, Calina D, Constantin C, Neagu M, Caruntu C, Scheau C. Capsaicin: Emerging Pharmacological and Therapeutic Insights. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:7895-7943. [PMID: 39194685 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46080468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Capsaicin, the most prominent pungent compound of chilli peppers, has been used in traditional medicine systems for centuries; it already has a number of established clinical and industrial applications. Capsaicin is known to act through the TRPV1 receptor, which exists in various tissues; capsaicin is hepatically metabolised, having a half-life correlated with the method of application. Research on various applications of capsaicin in different formulations is still ongoing. Thus, local capsaicin applications have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, while systemic applications have a multitude of different effects because their increased lipophilic character ensures their augmented bioavailability. Furthermore, various teams have documented capsaicin's anti-cancer effects, proven both in vivo and in vitro designs. A notable constraint in the therapeutic effects of capsaicin is its increased toxicity, especially in sensitive tissues. Regarding the traditional applications of capsaicin, apart from all the effects recorded as medicinal effects, the application of capsaicin in acupuncture points has been demonstrated to be effective and the combination of acupuncture and capsaicin warrants further research. Finally, capsaicin has demonstrated antimicrobial effects, which can supplement its anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Madalina Petran
- Department of Biochemistry, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Toxicology, Grigore Alexandrescu Emergency Children's Hospital, 011743 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Argyrios Periferakis
- Department of Physiology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Akadimia of Ancient Greek and Traditional Chinese Medicine, 16675 Athens, Greece
- Elkyda, Research & Education Centre of Charismatheia, 17675 Athens, Greece
| | - Lamprini Troumpata
- Department of Physiology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aristodemos-Theodoros Periferakis
- Department of Physiology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Elkyda, Research & Education Centre of Charismatheia, 17675 Athens, Greece
| | - Andreea-Elena Scheau
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Anca Badarau
- Department of Physiology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Konstantinos Periferakis
- Akadimia of Ancient Greek and Traditional Chinese Medicine, 16675 Athens, Greece
- Pan-Hellenic Organization of Educational Programs (P.O.E.P), 17236 Athens, Greece
| | - Ana Caruntu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The "Carol Davila" Central Military Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Titu Maiorescu" University, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ilinca Savulescu-Fiedler
- Department of Internal Medicine, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Coltea Clinical Hospital, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Romina-Marina Sima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- The "Bucur" Maternity, "Saint John" Hospital, 040294 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Department, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Immunology Department, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 76201 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, "Prof. N.C. Paulescu" National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Scheau
- Department of Physiology, The "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, "Foisor" Clinical Hospital of Orthopaedics, Traumatology and Osteoarticular TB, 021382 Bucharest, Romania
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Csorba A, Imre L, Szalai I, Lukáts O, Fodor E, Szabó A, Nagy ZZ. Presentation of Meibomian Acini Compared to Dermal Papillae of the Eyelid Margin, Using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Corresponding Histology. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2024. [PMID: 38802075 DOI: 10.1055/a-2302-7526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have investigated the eyelid margin using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and have presented morphological alterations of the examined structures, which were presumed to be Meibomian acini. However, recent data confirm that these structures are the cross-sections of dermal papillae of the dermoepidermal junction. This study aims to present the morphological appearance of Meibomian acini examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy in comparison to dermal papillae, and to reveal the corresponding patterns with specific histological sections. METHODS AND MATERIAL Twenty healthy patients were examined with a CLSM device in vivo at the marginal edge of the eyelid. Twenty-two samples of full-thickness eyelid wedges from 22 patients treated surgically with ectropion were collected, of which 11 freshly excised samples were imaged on the incision surface with CLSM ex vivo and 11 eyelids underwent conventional histological preparation. The represented structures on CLSM images were compared to Meibomian acini on histological sections in terms of area, longest and shortest diameter, as well as depth and density. RESULTS On in vivo CLSM images, Meibomian orifices, epidermal cells, and dermal connective tissue could be identified, the latter in a cross-sectional view of the dermal papillae surrounded by basal cells of the epidermis, forming reflective ring-like structures. All morphological parameters of these structures differed from Meibomian acini measured on histological sections. In contrast, the CLSM images of the incision surface showed acinar units with the same morphology as the Meibomian acini seen in the histological images and no statistically significant difference was found between the corresponding parameters. CONCLUSION The morphological appearance of Meibomian acini differs from the structures that were previously presumed as Meibomian glands on CLSM images. In vivo imaging of Meibomian glands by commonly used in vivo CLSM cannot be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Csorba
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - L Imre
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Teaching Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - I Szalai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - O Lukáts
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - E Fodor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - A Szabó
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Z Z Nagy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
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3
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Periferakis AT, Periferakis A, Periferakis K, Caruntu A, Badarau IA, Savulescu-Fiedler I, Scheau C, Caruntu C. Antimicrobial Properties of Capsaicin: Available Data and Future Research Perspectives. Nutrients 2023; 15:4097. [PMID: 37836381 PMCID: PMC10574431 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194097] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Capsaicin is a phytochemical derived from plants of the genus Capsicum and subject of intensive phytochemical research due to its numerous physiological and therapeutical effects, including its important antimicrobial properties. Depending on the concentration and the strain of the bacterium, capsaicin can exert either bacteriostatic or even bactericidal effects against a wide range of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, while in certain cases it can reduce their pathogenicity by a variety of mechanisms such as mitigating the release of toxins or inhibiting biofilm formation. Likewise, capsaicin has been shown to be effective against fungal pathogens, particularly Candida spp., where it once again interferes with biofilm formation. The parasites Toxoplasma gondi and Trypanosoma cruzi have been found to be susceptible to the action of this compound too while there are also viruses whose invasiveness is significantly dampened by it. Among the most encouraging findings are the prospects for future development, especially using new formulations and drug delivery mechanisms. Finally, the influence of capsaicin in somatostatin and substance P secretion and action, offers an interesting array of possibilities given that these physiologically secreted compounds modulate inflammation and immune response to a significant extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristodemos-Theodoros Periferakis
- Department of Physiology, The “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Elkyda, Research & Education Centre of Charismatheia, 17675 Athens, Greece
| | - Argyrios Periferakis
- Department of Physiology, The “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Elkyda, Research & Education Centre of Charismatheia, 17675 Athens, Greece
- Akadimia of Ancient Greek and Traditional Chinese Medicine, 16675 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Periferakis
- Akadimia of Ancient Greek and Traditional Chinese Medicine, 16675 Athens, Greece
- Pan-Hellenic Organization of Educational Programs (P.O.E.P), 17236 Athens, Greece
| | - Ana Caruntu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, “Carol Davila” Central Military Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Titu Maiorescu” University, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Anca Badarau
- Department of Physiology, The “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ilinca Savulescu-Fiedler
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Coltea Clinical Hospital, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, The “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Scheau
- Department of Physiology, The “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, “Foisor” Clinical Hospital of Orthopaedics, Traumatology and Osteoarticular TB, 021382 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, The “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N.C. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
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4
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Reingold RE, Monnier J, Ardigò M, Stoll JR, Pena MC, Nanda JK, Dusza SW, Ruiz JD, Flynn L, Afrin A, Klein EG, Prockop SE, Pulitzer MP, Ponce DM, Markova A, Jain M. Real-Time Reflectance Confocal Microscopy of Cutaneous Graft-versus-Host Disease Correlates with Histopathology. Transplant Cell Ther 2022; 28:51.e1-51.e14. [PMID: 34571213 PMCID: PMC8792185 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2021.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) allows noninvasive, real-time evaluation of the skin at a resolution akin to histopathology (HP), but its application in cutaneous graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) has not been extensively assessed. We describe RCM features of cutaneous GVHD including acute (aGVHD), late acute, chronic (cGVHD; sclerotic and nonsclerotic subtypes), and inactive GVHD and correlate RCM with same-site HP for a subset of patients. Thirty-two adult and pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) recipients with cutaneous GVHD received RCM imaging of ≥1 lesions (n = 44), 13 of which necessitated skin biopsy. RCM images were deidentified and assessed by 2 RCM experts blinded to clinical and HP findings to reach a consensus on the features and patterns of the inflammatory dermatoses. Major RCM features (present in ≥65% of lesional sites) and patterns were reported. To determine the correlation between RCM and HP, detection of cellular features and patterns of inflammatory dermatoses were compared using percent agreement and prevalence-adjusted, bias-adjusted kappa estimates. Seven patients with early or late aGVHD (7 lesions) had irregular honeycombing, spongiosis, dermoepidermal junction (DEJ) and dermal inflammation, and melanophages; those with early aGVHD also had hyperkeratosis, dilated vessels, and coarse connective tissue. Both groups had an interface dermatitis pattern. Eighteen patients with nonsclerotic cGVHD (24 lesions) had irregular honeycombing, spongiosis, DEJ and dermal inflammation, dilated vessels, coarse connective tissue, and interface and spongiotic dermatitis patterns. Three sclerotic patients with cGVHD (7 lesions) had irregular honeycombing, DEJ and dermal inflammation with an interface dermatitis pattern. Four patients with inactive GVHD (6 lesions) showed minimal inflammation. RCM and HP had similar detection rates for 6 of 13 features and overall patterns important for diagnosis in 2 patients with late aGVHD (2 lesions; 15%) and 10 with nonsclerotic cGVHD (11 lesions; 85%) necessitating skin biopsy. RCM can detect features commonly reported in cutaneous GVHD and is comparable to HP. Additional characterization of cutaneous GVHD by RCM may enable future use in diagnosing, monitoring, or predicting disease in real time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Reingold
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Jilliana Monnier
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Dermatology and Skin Cancer Department, La Timone Hospital, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Marco Ardigò
- Clinical Dermatology, San Gallicano Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Joseph R Stoll
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Maria C Pena
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Japbani K Nanda
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Stephen W Dusza
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Josel D Ruiz
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lisa Flynn
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Antara Afrin
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elizabeth G Klein
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Susan E Prockop
- Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Melissa P Pulitzer
- Dermatopathology Service, Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Doris M Ponce
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Alina Markova
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.
| | - Manu Jain
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.
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Bondar A, Popa AR, Papanas N, Popoviciu M, Vesa CM, Sabau M, Daina C, Stoica RA, Katsiki N, Stoian AP. Diabetic neuropathy: A narrative review of risk factors, classification, screening and current pathogenic treatment options (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:690. [PMID: 33986855 PMCID: PMC8111877 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a frequent complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) with severe consequences as it progresses and influences all human body systems. This review discusses the risk factors for DN, the main characteristics of the clinical forms of DN, the screening methods and the current therapeutic options. Distal symmetric DN is the primary clinical form, and DM patients should be screened for this complication. The most important treatment of DN remains good glucose control, generally defined as HbA1c ≤7%. Symptomatic treatment improves life quality in diabetic patients. Pharmacological agents such as alpha (α)-lipoic acid and benfotiamine have been validated in several studies since they act on specific pathways such as increased oxidative stress (α-lipoic acid exerts antioxidant effects) and the excessive production of advanced glycosylation products (benfotiamine may inhibit their production via the normalization of glucose). Timely diagnosis of DN is significant to avoid several complications, including lower limb amputations and cardiac arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Bondar
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410169 Oradea, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Amorin Remus Popa
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410169 Oradea, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Nikolaos Papanas
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, ‘Democritus’ University of Thrace Diabetes Centre, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Mihaela Popoviciu
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410169 Oradea, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Cosmin Mihai Vesa
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410169 Oradea, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Monica Sabau
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410169 Oradea, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Cristian Daina
- Department of Psychiatry, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410169 Oradea, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Roxana Adriana Stoica
- Department of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Niki Katsiki
- Second Propaedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anca Pantea Stoian
- Department of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Dumitrache MD, Jieanu AS, Scheau C, Badarau IA, Popescu GDA, Caruntu A, Costache DO, Costache RS, Constantin C, Neagu M, Caruntu C. Comparative effects of capsaicin in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:917. [PMID: 34306191 PMCID: PMC8280727 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are chronic respiratory diseases with high prevalence and mortality that significantly alter the quality of life in affected patients. While the cellular and molecular mechanisms engaged in the development and evolution of these two conditions are different, COPD and asthma share a wide array of symptoms and clinical signs that may impede differential diagnosis. However, the distinct signaling pathways regulating cough and airway hyperresponsiveness employ the interaction of different cells, molecules, and receptors. Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) plays a major role in cough and airway inflammation. Consequently, its agonist, capsaicin, is of substantial interest in exploring the cellular effects and regulatory pathways that mediate these respiratory conditions. Increasingly more studies emphasize the use of capsaicin for the inhalation cough challenge, yet the involvement of TRPV1 in cough, bronchoconstriction, and the initiation of inflammation has not been entirely revealed. This review outlines a comparative perspective on the effects of capsaicin and its receptor in the pathophysiology of COPD and asthma, underlying the complex entanglement of molecular signals that bridge the alteration of cellular function with the multitude of clinical effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihai-Daniel Dumitrache
- Department of Pneumology IV, 'Marius Nasta' Institute of Pneumophtysiology, 050159 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Stefania Jieanu
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian Scheau
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Anca Badarau
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Ana Caruntu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 'Dr. Carol Davila' Central Military Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Titu Maiorescu' University, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Octavian Costache
- Department of Dermatology, 'Dr. Carol Davila' Central Military Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Simona Costache
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine Clinic, 'Dr. Carol Davila' Central Military Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, 'Colentina' University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, 'Colentina' University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 76201 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N.C. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
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7
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Constantin MM, Bucur S, Serban ED, Olteanu R, Bratu OG, Constantin T. Measurement of skin viscoelasticity: A non-invasive approach in allergic contact dermatitis. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:184. [PMID: 33101474 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive bioengineering technologies are constantly being developed, as they can provide useful insights and contribute to the improvement of medical care and scientific education. The purpose of this study was to assess skin viscoelasticity using the suction chamber method in patients with allergic contact dermatitis vs. healthy subjects, before and after applying a moisturizer safety testing cream. This was a prospective controlled study over a 3-year period (March 2016-March 2019), with 81 subjects being divided in two balanced groups: Patients with allergic contact dermatitis and healthy subjects, respectively. The skin viscoelasticity was determined for all subjects with Cutometer®, using the suction method, by performing a dynamic assessment of parameters before and after applying a moisturizing cream. The results indicate a decrease in the elasticity parameters in both groups, indicating an improvement of the elastic properties under the treatment. Skin capacity to return to its previous form after the deformation, i.e., pure elasticity and biological elasticity, showed overall elevated values in the group with contact dermatitis, demonstrating the efficacy of the emollient cream after applying it for 28 days (increase by 11.7 and 4.9% respectively, compared with baseline, when patients had dry, untreated skin). However, in healthy subjects, these parameters do not achieve important values, but they remain rather stable over time with a very slight improvement (6.6% after 28 days). The Cutometer is an easy to use, efficient and widely used instrument for measurements in studies that perform a quantitative assessment of the effectiveness of different formulations intended for application on the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Magdalena Constantin
- The Second Department of Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania.,3rd Department, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Stefana Bucur
- The Second Department of Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena-Daniela Serban
- The Second Department of Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Rodica Olteanu
- The Second Department of Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Gabriel Bratu
- 3rd Department, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Urology Department, Emergency University Central Military Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Traian Constantin
- 3rd Department, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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8
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Boldeanu L, Boldeanu MV, Bogdan M, Meca AD, Coman CG, Buca BR, Tartau CG, Tartau LM. Immunological approaches and therapy in burns (Review). Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:2361-2367. [PMID: 32765715 PMCID: PMC7401720 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Burns have become an important public health problem in the last two decades, with just over a quarter of a million deaths annually. Major burns are accompanied by a strong inflammatory response, which will most often lead to systemic response inflammatory syndrome, followed by sepsis and finally induce multiple organ failure. The main mechanism involved in wound healing after burns is the inflammatory process, characterized by the recruitment of myeloid and T cells and by the involvement of numerous cytokines, chemokines, complement fractions, as well as various growth factors. Inflammasomes, protein-based cytosolic complexes, activated during metabolic stress or infection, play a role in modulating and improving the defense capacity of the innate immune system. Nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been studied predominantly and several hypotheses have been issued. Restoring the balance between the pro-inflammatory response and the anti-inflammatory activity is the key element to effective therapy in burns. Severe burns require nutritional support and pharmacotherapy not only for burn area but for different pathological complications of burn injury. In-depth research is required to find new ways to modulate the defense capacity, to prevent the complications of abnormal immune response and to treat burn injuries efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Boldeanu
- Department of Microbiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mihail Virgil Boldeanu
- Department of Immunology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania.,Department of Medico Science SRL, Stem Cell Bank Unit, 200690 Craiova, Romania
| | - Maria Bogdan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Andreea Daniela Meca
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Corneliu George Coman
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Beatrice Rozalina Buca
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Cosmin Gabriel Tartau
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Liliana Mititelu Tartau
- Department of Pharmacology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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9
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Menicagli R, Marotta O, Maione N. Possible Effects of Capsaicin (Chili Pepper) on the Oral Health. Int J Prev Med 2020; 11:12. [PMID: 32175052 PMCID: PMC7050222 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_122_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Capsaicin binds the TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid), desensitizing the pain fibers that become insensitive to nociceptive stimuli. For this fact that the capsaicin has antipain and antiinflammatory properties, few studies verify possible harmful effects, especially with its use in high amounts. The aim of this study is to check salivary nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as indicators of its possible oral health alterations. Methods The protocol calls for twelve volunteers to eat 20 g of sausage with a high content of chili pepper and capsaicin. The study analyzes their salivary concentration of NO and MDA and in control group, 2 min, 1 h, and 1.5 h after ingestion. The U-Mann Whitney Calculator Test statistically analyzes these results. Results Immediately after eating, there is a significant increase of NO and MDA vs control: P value is 0.03752 and 0.03236, respectively. The values of NO and MDA vs control remain higher after 1 h: P value is 0.04036 and 0.0466, respectively, to return to normality after 1.5 h. Discussion This study shows that capsaicin increases the simultaneous production of MDA and NO. It is possible to hypothesize that MDA derives mainly from the inflammatory process up-regulated by COX-2, generated by capsaicin. We hypothesize instead that the excess of capsaicin inhibits and reduces the number of TRPV1, which produces an excess of NO and generates nitrosative stress. NO reacts with O2 to form hydroxyl radicals (OH) and H2O, or with superoxide anions to form MDA. Conclusions The results of this study clearly show that the use not necessarily excessive of chili leads to developing an inflammatory process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ortensio Marotta
- Department of ENT, Faculty of Medicine, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
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10
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Cannabinoids in the Pathophysiology of Skin Inflammation. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25030652. [PMID: 32033005 PMCID: PMC7037408 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are increasingly-used substances in the treatment of chronic pain, some neuropsychiatric disorders and more recently, skin disorders with an inflammatory component. However, various studies cite conflicting results concerning the cellular mechanisms involved, while others suggest that cannabinoids may even exert pro-inflammatory behaviors. This paper aims to detail and clarify the complex workings of cannabinoids in the molecular setting of the main dermatological inflammatory diseases, and their interactions with other substances with emerging applications in the treatment of these conditions. Also, the potential role of cannabinoids as antitumoral drugs is explored in relation to the inflammatory component of skin cancer. In vivo and in vitro studies that employed either phyto-, endo-, or synthetic cannabinoids were considered in this paper. Cannabinoids are regarded with growing interest as eligible drugs in the treatment of skin inflammatory conditions, with potential anticancer effects, and the readiness in monitoring of effects and the facility of topical application may contribute to the growing support of the use of these substances. Despite the promising early results, further controlled human studies are required to establish the definitive role of these products in the pathophysiology of skin inflammation and their usefulness in the clinical setting.
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11
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A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Accuracy of in VivoReflectance Confocal Microscopy for the Diagnosis of Primary Basal Cell Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8091462. [PMID: 31540342 PMCID: PMC6780971 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8091462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer worldwide and its incidence is constantly rising. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce patient morbidity and healthcare costs. The value of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosis is still under debate. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the diagnostic accuracy of RCM in primary BCC. PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched up to July 05, 2019, to collect articles concerning primary BCC diagnosis through RCM. The studies’ methodological quality was assessed by the QUADAS-2 tool. The meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 13.0, RevMan 5.0, and MetaDisc 1.4 software. We included 15 studies totaling a number of 4163 lesions. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.92 (95% CI, 0.87–0.95; I2 = 85.27%) and 0.93 (95% CI, 0.85–0.97; I2 = 94.61%), the pooled positive and negative likelihood ratios were 13.51 (95% CI, 5.8–31.37; I2 = 91.01%) and 0.08 (95% CI, 0.05–0.14; I2 = 84.83%), and the pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 160.31 (95% CI, 64.73–397.02; I2 = 71%). Despite the heterogeneity and risk of bias, this study demonstrates that RCM, through its high sensitivity and specificity, may have a significant clinical impact on the diagnosis of primary BCC.
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12
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Ilie MA, Caruntu C, Tampa M, Georgescu SR, Matei C, Negrei C, Ion RM, Constantin C, Neagu M, Boda D. Capsaicin: Physicochemical properties, cutaneous reactions and potential applications in painful and inflammatory conditions. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:916-925. [PMID: 31384324 PMCID: PMC6639979 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Capsaicin is a natural protoalkaloid recognized as the main pungent component in hot peppers (Capsicum annuum L.). The capsaicin receptor is highly expressed in the unmyelinated type C nerve fibers originating from small diameter sensory neurons in dorsal root ganglia and cranial nerve ganglia correspondents. Capsaicin and related vanilloids have a variety of effects on primary sensory neurons function, from sensory neuron excitation characterized by local burning sensation and neurogenic inflammation, followed by conduction blockage accompanied by reversible ultrastructural changes of peripheral nociceptive endings (desensitization), going as far as irreversible degenerative changes (neurotoxicity). The main role in capsaicin-induced neurogenic inflammation relies on the capsaicin sensitive, small diameter primary sensory neurons, therefore its evaluation could be used as a diagnostic instrument in functional alterations of cutaneous sensory nerve fibers. Moreover, capsaicin-induced desensitization and neurotoxicity explain the analgesic/anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of topical capsaicin and its potential use in the management of painful and inflammatory conditions. In this study, we describe the effects of capsaicin on neurogenic inflammation and nociception, as well as its potential diagnostic value and therapeutic impact in various conditions involving impairment of sensory nerve fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Biochemistry, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N.C. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 020475, Romania
| | - Mircea Tampa
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
| | - Simona-Roxana Georgescu
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
| | - Clara Matei
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
| | - Carolina Negrei
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020956, Romania
| | - Rodica-Mariana Ion
- The National Institute for Research and Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry - ICECHIM, Bucharest 060021, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest 050096, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest 050096, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest 020125, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N.C. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 020475, Romania
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13
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Ionescu AM, Ilie MA, Chitu V, Razvan A, Lixandru D, Tanase C, Boda D, Caruntu C, Zurac S. In vivo Diagnosis of Primary Cutaneous Amyloidosis -the Role of Reflectance Confocal Microscopy. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9030066. [PMID: 31252549 PMCID: PMC6787715 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9030066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary cutaneous amyloidosis (PCA) is a form of localized amyloidosis. It is characterized by the deposition of a fibrillar material in the superficial dermis, without affecting other systems or organs. The diagnosis can be made clinically, but usually a skin biopsy is performed in order to exclude other skin diseases with similar appearance. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a novel imaging tool that enables in vivo characterization of various skin changes with a high, quasi-microscopic resolution. This technique might have an important role in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous amyloidosis, by the in vivo assessment of epidermal changes and dermal amyloid deposition. Moreover, it is completely non-invasive and can be safely repeated on the same skin area. However, to date, there is only one published paper presenting the confocal features of primary cutaneous amyloidosis. Hereby, we describe the in vivo RCM features of PCA lesions from a patient with diabetes and correlate them with histologic findings. This strengthens the clinical usefulness of in vivo RCM examination for the non-invasive diagnosis of cutaneous amyloidosis, especially in patients that might associate diseases with impaired wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Maria Ionescu
- First Department of Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela-Adriana Ilie
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Biochemistry, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Virginia Chitu
- First Department of Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei Razvan
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Lixandru
- Department of Biochemistry, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristiana Tanase
- Department of Biochemistry-Proteomics, "Victor Babes" National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, "Prof. N. Paulescu" National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Dermatology, "Prof. N. Paulescu" National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania.
- Department of Physiology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Sabina Zurac
- Department of Dermatology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
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14
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Scheau C, Badarau IA, Caruntu C, Mihai GL, Didilescu AC, Constantin C, Neagu M. Capsaicin: Effects on the Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Molecules 2019; 24:E2350. [PMID: 31247901 PMCID: PMC6651067 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24132350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent cancers, and to date, there have been very few drugs available that can improve survival, the most well-known being sorafenib. The pathogenesis of HCC is complex, involving multiple processes including abnormal cell and tissue regeneration, angiogenesis, genomic instability, cellular proliferation, and signaling pathway alterations. Capsaicin is a substance that holds increasingly high interest and is studied as a therapeutic option in a wide array of diseases. Several studies have investigated capsaicin roles in various stages of HCC oncogenesis. This paper aims to thoroughly detail the available information on the individual effects of capsaicin on the cellular mechanisms and pathways involved in HCC development, as well as investigate their possible cooperation and interferences. The synergistic antitumor effects of capsaicin and sorafenib are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Scheau
- Department of Physiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Anca Badarau
- Department of Physiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.
- Department of Dermatology, Prof. N.C. Paulescu National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Gratiela Livia Mihai
- Department of Physiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Cristiana Didilescu
- Department of Embryology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Department, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Immunology Department, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 76201 Bucharest, Romania
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15
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Ilie MA, Caruntu C, Lupu M, Lixandru D, Tampa M, Georgescu SR, Bastian A, Constantin C, Neagu M, Zurac SA, Boda D. Current and future applications of confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging in skin oncology. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:4102-4111. [PMID: 30944603 PMCID: PMC6444326 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is a modern imaging technique that enables the in vivo or ex vivo characterization of skin lesions located in the epidermis and superficial dermis with a high quasi-microscopic resolution. Currently, it is considered to be the most promising imaging tool for the evaluation of superficial skin tumors. The in vivo mode adds the advantage of noninvasive, dynamic, in real-time assessment of the tumor associated vasculature and inflammation. It offers the possibility to repeatedly examine the same skin area without causing any damage and to monitor disease progression and treatment outcome. Furthermore, this novel technology allows the evaluation of the entire lesion and can be used to guide biopsies and to define tumor margins before surgical excision or other invasive therapies. CLSM diagnostic features may differentiate between the various histologic subtypes of skin tumors and therefore helps in choosing the best therapeutic approach. In this study, we present the CLSM characteristic features of the most common melanocytic and non-melanocytic skin tumors, as well as future possible CLSM applications in the study of experimental skin tumorigenesis on animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Biochemistry, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Lupu
- Department of Dermatology, MEDAS Medical Center, 030442 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Lixandru
- Department of Biochemistry, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mircea Tampa
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Victor Babes’ Hospital, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona-Roxana Georgescu
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Victor Babes’ Hospital, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Bastian
- Department of Pathology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sabina Andrada Zurac
- Department of Pathology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
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16
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A Retrospective Study of the Diagnostic Accuracy of In Vivo Reflectance Confocal Microscopy for Basal Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis and Subtyping. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8040449. [PMID: 30987174 PMCID: PMC6518285 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8040449] [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: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Current national and European guidelines recommend distinct management approaches for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) based on tumor location, size, and histopathological subtype. In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a non-invasive skin imaging technique which may change the diagnostic pathway for BCC patients. This study aimed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of RCM for BCC diagnosis, assess the predictive values of several confocal criteria in correctly classifying BCC subtypes, and evaluate the intraobserver reliability of RCM diagnosis for BCC. We conducted a retrospective study in two tertiary care centers in Bucharest, Romania. We included adults with clinically and dermoscopic suspect BCCs who underwent RCM and histopathological examination of excision specimens. For RCM examinations, we used the VivaScope 1500 and histopathology of the surgical excision specimen was the reference standard. Of the 123 cases included in the analysis, BCC was confirmed in 104 and excluded in 19 cases. RCM showed both high sensitivity (97.1%, 95% CI (91.80, 99.40)) and specificity (78.95%, 95% CI (54.43, 93.95)) for detecting BCC. Several RCM criteria were highly predictive for BCC subtypes: cords connected to the epidermis for superficial BCC, big tumor islands, peritumoral collagen bundles and increased vascularization for nodular BCC, and hyporefractile silhouettes for aggressive BCC. Excellent intraobserver agreement (κ = 0.909, p < 0.001) was observed. This data suggests that RCM could be used for preoperative diagnosis and BCC subtype classification in patients with suspected BCCs seen in tertiary care centers.
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17
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Lupu M, Caruntu C, Popa MI, Voiculescu VM, Zurac S, Boda D. Vascular patterns in basal cell carcinoma: Dermoscopic, confocal and histopathological perspectives. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:4112-4125. [PMID: 30944604 PMCID: PMC6444327 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent skin cancer in the Caucasian population. A variety of different phenotypic presentations of BCC are possible. Although BCCs rarely metastasize, these tumors commonly destroy underlying tissues and should therefore be treated promptly. As vascular formation and angiogenesis are indicators of tumor development and progression, the presence of blood vessels, their morphology and architecture are important markers in skin lesions, providing critical information towards pathogenesis and diagnosis. BCC commonly lacks pigmentation, therefore it is important to emphasize the usefulness of vascular feature detection, recognition, quantification and interpretation. To answer the question of whether vascular patterns observed on dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and histopathology might reflect the biologic behavior of BCCs, we undertook this review article. Several studies have sought, by various means, to identify vascular features associated with the more aggressive BCC phenotypes. Dermoscopic vascular pattern assessment can facilitate diagnostic discrimination between BCC subtypes, more aggressive BCCs displaying less or no pink coloration and a relative absence of central tumor vessels. RCM, a novel, non-invasive imaging technique, allows for the quantification of blood vessel size, density, and flow intensity in BCCs. BCCs are distinguished on RCM chiefly by vessels that branch and intertwine between neoplastic aggregates, a pattern strongly reflecting tumor neo-angiogenesis. The analysis of these vascular morphological and distribution patterns can provide further support in the diagnosis, assessment, or monitoring of BCCs. Histopathology shows significantly higher microvessel densities in the peritumoral stroma of BCCs, when compared to normal skin or benign tumors. This angiogenic response in the stroma is associated with local aggressiveness, therefore the quantification of peritumoralmicrovessels may further assist with tumor evaluation. How dermoscopy and RCM vascular patterns in BCC correlate with histopathological subtype and thus help in discriminating aggressive subtypes definitely deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihai Lupu
- Department of Dermatology, MEDAS Medical Center, 030442 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Iris Popa
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 'Bagdasar Arseni' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Mihai Voiculescu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Elias' University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sabina Zurac
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050653 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania.,Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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18
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Grigore O, Mihailescu AI, Solomon I, Boda D, Caruntu C. Role of stress in modulation of skin neurogenic inflammation. Exp Ther Med 2019; 17:997-1003. [PMID: 30679965 PMCID: PMC6327627 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.7058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are complex interconnections between the nervous system and the skin highlighted by the impact of stress and neuroendocrine factors on various dermatological conditions. We investigated the influence of stress on skin neurogenic inflammation induced by capsaicin. A total of 31 healthy subjects were randomized into two groups: subjects in the stress group underwent a stress-inducing protocol and those in the control group were exposed to indifferent conditions. Subsequently, topical capsaicin cream was administered on the non-dominant anterior forearm of each subject from the two groups. The assessment of the local inflammatory reaction induced by capsaicin was performed by thermography at 25 and 40 min post-application. In both groups the inflammatory reaction induced by capsaicin was evidenced at 25 min and was maintained at 40 min post-application. However, at 40 min post-application the hyperthermal area was larger in subjects from the stress group, suggesting that stress exposure is associated with an amplification of the mechanisms involved in capsaicin-induced skin neurogenic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ovidiu Grigore
- Department of Applied Electronics and Information Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bucharest, 061071 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Ioana Mihailescu
- Department of Medical Psychology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iulia Solomon
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Physiology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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19
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Ilie MA, Caruntu C, Lixandru D, Tampa M, Georgescu SR, Constantin MM, Constantin C, Neagu M, Zurac SA, Boda D. In vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging of skin inflammation: Clinical applications and research directions. Exp Ther Med 2018; 17:1004-1011. [PMID: 30679966 PMCID: PMC6327452 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is a novel imaging technique that provides noninvasive, morphological characterization of skin structures with a resolution that is very close to that of light microscopy. Moreover, as it allows repeated imaging of the same skin area at different time-points, it is an excellent method for monitoring disease course, response to treatment or specific stimuli and a path to study dynamic phenomena in real-time. To date, two different variants of in vivo CLSM have been authorized in dermatological field, namely the reflectance confocal microscopy predominantly for clinical diagnosis and the fluorescence confocal microscopy mainly for research purposes. This study describes the principles of in vivo CLSM technique, its role in the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory skin diseases, as well as some promising research directions to study the dynamics of skin inflammation using this method. In vivo CLSM evaluation of inflammatory dermatoses and of the skin inflammatory component in various diseases has an undoubted potential with broad applications ranging from clinical, morphological to experimental, functional studies involving the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Biochemistry, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela Lixandru
- Department of Biochemistry, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mircea Tampa
- Department of Dermatology, 'Victor Babes' Hospital, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona-Roxana Georgescu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Victor Babes' Hospital, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Carolina Constantin
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sabina Andrada Zurac
- Department of Pathology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
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20
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Ianoși SL, Forsea AM, Lupu M, Ilie MA, Zurac S, Boda D, Ianosi G, Neagoe D, Tutunaru C, Popa CM, Caruntu C. Role of modern imaging techniques for the in vivo diagnosis of lichen planus. Exp Ther Med 2018; 17:1052-1060. [PMID: 30679973 PMCID: PMC6327670 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that can sometimes affect mucosal surfaces, with unknown pathogenesis, even though it appears to be an autoimmune disease. The diagnosis of lichen planus is usually based on histopathological examination of the lesions. Nowadays, the classical invasive diagnostic methods are replaced by modern non-invasive techniques. In this review, we present the main non-invasive imaging methods (dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, ultrasound and diffuse reflection spectrophotometry) used in the diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of lichen planus. Dermoscopy is a non-invasive method initially used for diagnosis of pigmented tumors but now is used also for inflammatory and infectious skin diseases. In lichen planus, the dermoscopy increases the accuracy of diagnosis, avoids skin biopsies commonly used and can be useful in the therapeutic monitoring by repeated investigation at different stages of treatment. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a novel non-invasive imaging technique that is prevalently used for the diagnosis of skin tumors and inflammatory skin diseases. This technology has been mostly employed for bedside, real-time microscopic evaluation of psoriasis, lichen planus, contact dermatitis, revealing specific confocal features to support clinical diagnosis and assist with patient management. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an emergent imaging technique, developed over the last decade, based on the interaction of the infrared radiation (900–1,500 nm) and the living tissues. A limited information exists on the benefits of OCT technology for the in vivo diagnosis of LP but could be a useful auxiliary tool in the in vivo differential diagnosis, especially in clinical equivocal settings like mucosal lesions, and in monitoring the response to treatment. Our review shows the possibility of using modern imaging techniques for the in vivo diagnosis and also for evaluation of the treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Laura Ianoși
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Emergency County Hospital, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Forsea
- Department of Dermatology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Lupu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Department of Biochemistry, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sabina Zurac
- Department of Pathology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Pathology, 'Colentina' University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Carol Medical Center, 010626 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gabriel Ianosi
- Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Military Hospital, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Daniela Neagoe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Emergency County Hospital, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Cristina Tutunaru
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Emergency County Hospital, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Cristina Maria Popa
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Emergency County Hospital, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
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21
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Israelsen NM, Maria M, Mogensen M, Bojesen S, Jensen M, Haedersdal M, Podoleanu A, Bang O. The value of ultrahigh resolution OCT in dermatology - delineating the dermo-epidermal junction, capillaries in the dermal papillae and vellus hairs. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2018; 9:2240-2265. [PMID: 29760984 PMCID: PMC5946785 DOI: 10.1364/boe.9.002240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the skin is gaining recognition and is increasingly applied to dermatological research. A key dermatological parameter inferred from an OCT image is the epidermal (Ep) thickness as a thickened Ep can be an indicator of a skin disease. Agreement in the literature on the signal characters of Ep and the subjacent skin layer, the dermis (D), is evident. Ambiguities of the OCT signal interpretation in the literature is however seen for the transition region between the Ep and D, which from histology is known as the dermo-epidermal junction (DEJ); a distinct junction comprised of the lower surface of a single cell layer in epidermis (the stratum basale) connected to an even thinner membrane (the basement membrane). The basement membrane is attached to the underlying dermis. In this work we investigate the impact of an improved axial and lateral resolution on the applicability of OCT for imaging of the skin. To this goal, OCT images are compared produced by a commercial OCT system (Vivosight from Michaelson Diagnostics) and by an in-house built ultrahigh resolution (UHR-) OCT system for dermatology. In 11 healthy volunteers, we investigate the DEJ signal characteristics. We perform a detailed analysis of the dark (low) signal band clearly seen for UHR-OCT in the DEJ region where we, by using a transition function, find the signal transition of axial sub-resolution character, which can be directly attributed to the exact location of DEJ, both in normal (thin/hairy) and glabrous (thick) skin. To our knowledge no detailed delineating of the DEJ in the UHR-OCT image has previously been reported, despite many publications within this field. For selected healthy volunteers, we investigate the dermal papillae and the vellus hairs and identify distinct features that only UHR-OCT can resolve. Differences are seen in tracing hairs of diameter below 20 μm, and in imaging the dermal papillae where, when utilising the UHR-OCT, capillary structures are identified in the hand palm, not previously reported in OCT studies and specifically for glabrous skin not reported in any other in vivo optical imaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Maria
- Technical University of Denmark, DTU Fotonik, Kongens Lyngby, 2800,
Denmark
- University of Kent, School of Physical Sciences, Canterbury, Kent,
England, CT2 7NZ
| | - Mette Mogensen
- Department of Dermatology, Bisbebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, DK-2400 Copenhagen NV,
Denmark
| | - Sophie Bojesen
- Department of Dermatology, Bisbebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, DK-2400 Copenhagen NV,
Denmark
| | - Mikkel Jensen
- Technical University of Denmark, DTU Fotonik, Kongens Lyngby, 2800,
Denmark
| | - Merete Haedersdal
- Department of Dermatology, Bisbebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, DK-2400 Copenhagen NV,
Denmark
| | - Adrian Podoleanu
- University of Kent, School of Physical Sciences, Canterbury, Kent,
England, CT2 7NZ
| | - Ole Bang
- Technical University of Denmark, DTU Fotonik, Kongens Lyngby, 2800,
Denmark
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22
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Lupu M, Caruntu A, Caruntu C, Boda D, Moraru L, Voiculescu V, Bastian A. Non-invasive imaging of actinic cheilitis and squamous cell carcinoma of the lip. Mol Clin Oncol 2018; 8:640-646. [PMID: 29725529 PMCID: PMC5920479 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2018.1599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
An early diagnosis is of overwhelming importance for the management and prognosis of mucocutaneous cancer. Actinic cheilitis (AC), defined by the clonal expansion of genomically unstable keratinocytes, is the most common potentially malignant lesion affecting the lips. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most frequent oral malignancy, and there is strong evidence that the majority of the SCCs of the lip originate from AC. There is considerable difficulty in discerning between dysplasia and invasive carcinomas solely on a clinical basis. Although dermoscopy has become an essential tool for skin tumor evaluation, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a non-invasive imaging technology that has proved itself extremely useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of several skin diseases, including AC and SCC. The present study aimed to re-emphasize the usefulness of RCM in the early detection of malignant transformation, using AC and SCC of the lips as working examples. Due to the apparent innocuousness of AC for numerous patients, it is not possible to overstress the importance of a correct and early diagnosis, proper treatment and long-term patient follow-up as being essential for preventing the progression to lip SCC, or for its timely diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihai Lupu
- Department of Dermatology, MEDAS Medical Center, Bucharest 030442, Romania
| | - Ana Caruntu
- ‘Carol Davila’ Central Military Emergency Hospital, Bucharest 010825, Romania
- ‘Titu Maiorescu’ University, Faculty of Medicine, Bucharest 031593, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 011233, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Carol Medical Center, Bucharest 010626, Romania
| | - Liliana Moraru
- ‘Carol Davila’ Central Military Emergency Hospital, Bucharest 010825, Romania
| | - Vlad Voiculescu
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, Bucharest 011461, Romania
| | - Alexandra Bastian
- Department of Pathology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Department of Pathology, ‘Colentina’ University Hospital, Bucharest 020125, Romania
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23
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Georgescu SR, Sârbu MI, Matei C, Ilie MA, Caruntu C, Constantin C, Neagu M, Tampa M. Capsaicin: Friend or Foe in Skin Cancer and Other Related Malignancies? Nutrients 2017; 9:E1365. [PMID: 29258175 PMCID: PMC5748815 DOI: 10.3390/nu9121365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Capsaicin is the main pungent in chili peppers, one of the most commonly used spices in the world; its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties have been proven in various cultures for centuries. It is a lipophilic substance belonging to the class of vanilloids and an agonist of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptor. Taking into consideration the complex neuro-immune impact of capsaicin and the potential link between inflammation and carcinogenesis, the effect of capsaicin on muco-cutaneous cancer has aroused a growing interest. The aim of this review is to look over the most recent data regarding the connection between capsaicin and muco-cutaneous cancers, with emphasis on melanoma and muco-cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona-Roxana Georgescu
- Department of Dermatology, Carol DavilaUniversity of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Maria-Isabela Sârbu
- Department of Dermatology, Carol DavilaUniversity of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Clara Matei
- Department of Dermatology, Carol DavilaUniversity of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Department of Biochemistry, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.
- Department of Dermatology, Prof. N.C. Paulescu National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Immunology Department, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Monica Neagu
- Immunology Department, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 76201 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Mircea Tampa
- Department of Dermatology, Carol DavilaUniversity of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
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24
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Batani A, Brănișteanu DE, Ilie MA, Boda D, Ianosi S, Ianosi G, Caruntu C. Assessment of dermal papillary and microvascular parameters in psoriasis vulgaris using in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy. Exp Ther Med 2017; 15:1241-1246. [PMID: 29434710 PMCID: PMC5774437 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.5542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a modern, non-invasive imaging technique, which allows for real-time examination of the upper layers of the skin at a resolution similar to that of classic microscopy. In addition, it has the advantage of real-time evaluation of blood flow and dynamic monitoring of cutaneous changes while preserving tissue integrity. The present study reported on the in vivo RCM technique as an objective method for the noninvasive assessment of psoriasis vulgaris that is potentially applicable in clinical studies and in monitoring the evolution of lesions under treatment. In psoriasis lesions, RCM virtual horizontal sections at the level of the dermo-epidermal junction featured numerous and prominent dermal papillae that were not surrounded by bright rings of basal cells. Micromorphological examination of the lesions using this technique revealed that mean values of the section area, the perimeter and the Feret's diameter of the dermal papillae were significantly higher in psoriatic lesions than in normal skin. An increased number of capillary vessels per lesional dermal papilla as compared to healthy skin was observed. Furthermore, micromorphological parameters of dermal capillaries were increased in psoriatic skin. These observations point to the utility of in vivo RCM as a promising technique for the non-invasive diagnosis of psoriasis vulgaris, for monitoring the evolution of lesions at a micromorphological level under various treatments and for gaining a better understanding of the pathophysiological processes that occur in the evolution of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Batani
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daciana Elena Brănișteanu
- Department of Dermatology, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iassy, Romania
| | - Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Ianosi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Gabriel Ianosi
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Military Hospital, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Physiology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, N. Paulescu National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
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25
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Lupu M, Caruntu A, Caruntu C, Papagheorghe LML, Ilie MA, Voiculescu V, Boda D, Constantin C, Tanase C, Sifaki M, Drakoulis N, Mamoulakis C, Tzanakakis G, Neagu M, Spandidos DA, Izotov BN, Tsatsakis AM. Neuroendocrine factors: The missing link in non‑melanoma skin cancer (Review). Oncol Rep 2017; 38:1327-1340. [PMID: 28713981 PMCID: PMC5549028 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non‑melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common form of cancer worldwide, comprising 95% of all cutaneous malignancies and approximately 40% of all cancers. In spite of intensive efforts aimed towards awareness campaigns and sun‑protective measures, epidemiological data indicate an increase in the incidence of NMSC. This category of skin cancers has many common environmental triggers. Arising primarily on sun‑exposed skin, it has been shown that ultraviolet radiation is, in the majority of cases, the main trigger involved in the pathogenesis of NMSC. Aside from the well‑known etiopathogenic factors, studies have indicated that several neuroactive factors are involved in the carcinogenesis of two of the most common types of NMSC, namely basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), with the exception of penile SCC, for which a paucity of specific data on their pathogenic role exists. The complex interaction between the peripheral nervous system and target cells in the skin appears to be mediated by locally released neuroendocrine factors, such as catecholamines, substance P, calcitonin gene‑related peptide and somatostatin, as well as neurohormones, such as proopiomelanocortin and its derived peptides, α‑melanocyte‑stimulating hormone and adrenocorticotropin. All these factors have been, at least at some point, a subject of debate regarding their precise role in the pathogenesis of NMSC. There is also a significant body of evidence indicating that psychological stress is a crucial impact factor influencing the course of skin cancers, including SCC and BCC. Numerous studies have suggested that neuroendocrine factor dysregulation, as observed in stress reactions, may be involved in tumorigenesis, accelerating the development and progression, and suppressing the regression of NMSC. Further studies are required in order to elucidate the exact mechanisms through which neuroactive molecules promote or inhibit cutaneous carcinogenesis, as this could lead to the development of more sophisticated and tailored treatment protocols, as well as open new perspectives in skin cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihai Lupu
- Department of Dermatology, MEDAS Medical Center, 030442 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Caruntu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, ‘Carol Davila’ Central Military Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
- ‘Titu Maiorescu’ University, Faculty of Medicine, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Prof. N. Paulescu’ National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Mihaela Adriana Ilie
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Voiculescu
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Colentina University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristiana Tanase
- ‘Titu Maiorescu’ University, Faculty of Medicine, 031593 Bucharest, Romania
- ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Sifaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Drakoulis
- Research Group of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, University of Crete Medical School, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - George Tzanakakis
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Monica Neagu
- ‘Victor Babes’ National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Colentina University Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Boris N. Izotov
- Department of Analytical Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Aristides M. Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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26
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NEAGU MONICA, CARUNTU CONSTANTIN, CONSTANTIN CAROLINA, BODA DANIEL, ZURAC SABINA, SPANDIDOS DEMETRIOSA, TSATSAKIS ARISTIDISM. Chemically induced skin carcinogenesis: Updates in experimental models (Review). Oncol Rep 2016; 35:2516-28. [PMID: 26986013 PMCID: PMC4811393 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.4683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer is one of the most common malignancies affecting humans worldwide, and its incidence is rapidly increasing. The study of skin carcinogenesis is of major interest for both scientific research and clinical practice and the use of in vivo systems may facilitate the investigation of early alterations in the skin and of the mechanisms involved, and may also lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for skin cancer. This review outlines several aspects regarding the skin toxicity testing domain in mouse models of chemically induced skin carcinogenesis. There are important strain differences in view of the histological type, development and clinical evolution of the skin tumor, differences reported decades ago and confirmed by our hands‑on experience. Using mouse models in preclinical testing is important due to the fact that, at the molecular level, common mechanisms with human cutaneous tumorigenesis are depicted. These animal models resemble human skin cancer development, in that genetic changes caused by carcinogens and pro‑inflammatory cytokines, and simultaneous inflammation sustained by pro‑inflammatory cytokines and chemokines favor tumor progression. Drugs and environmental conditions can be tested using these animal models. keeping in mind the differences between human and rodent skin physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- MONICA NEAGU
- 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest 050096, Romania
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest 76201, Romania
| | - CONSTANTIN CARUNTU
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 79811, Romania
| | | | - DANIEL BODA
- Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 79811, Romania
| | - SABINA ZURAC
- Department of Pathology, 'Colentina' Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 72202, Romania
| | - DEMETRIOS A. SPANDIDOS
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion 71409, Greece
| | - ARISTIDIS M. TSATSAKIS
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
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27
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Ghita MA, Caruntu C, Rosca AE, Kaleshi H, Caruntu A, Moraru L, Docea AO, Zurac S, Boda D, Neagu M, Spandidos DA, Tsatsakis AM. Reflectance confocal microscopy and dermoscopy for in vivo, non-invasive skin imaging of superficial basal cell carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2016; 11:3019-3024. [PMID: 27123056 PMCID: PMC4840988 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) is the second most frequent histological type of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), usually requiring a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. It usually appears on the upper trunk and shoulders as erythematous and squamous lesions. Although it has a slow growth and seldom metastasizes, early diagnosis and management are of crucial importance in preventing local invasion and subsequent disfigurement. Dermoscopy is nowadays an indispensable tool for the dermatologist when evaluating skin tumors. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a novel imaging technique that allows the non-invasive, in vivo quasi-microscopic morphological and dynamic assessment of superficial skin tumors. Moreover, it offers the advantage of performing infinite repeatable determinations to monitor disease progression and non-surgical treatment for sBCC. Herein, we present three lesions of sBCC evaluated using in vivo and non-invasive imaging techniques, emphasizing the usefulness of combining RCM with dermoscopy for increasing the diagnostic accuracy of sBCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela A Ghita
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
| | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania; Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 011233, Romania
| | - Adrian E Rosca
- Department of Physiology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania; 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest 050096, Romania
| | - Harillaq Kaleshi
- Department of Dermatology, 'Prof. N. Paulescu' National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest 011233, Romania
| | - Ana Caruntu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 'Carol Davila' Central Military Emergency Hospital, Bucharest 010825, Romania
| | - Liliana Moraru
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 'Carol Davila' Central Military Emergency Hospital, Bucharest 010825, Romania
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova 200349, Romania
| | - Sabina Zurac
- Department of Pathology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Colentina University Hospital, Bucharest 020125, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 050474, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest 050096, Romania
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71409, Greece
| | - Aristidis M Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
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28
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Caruntu C, Boda D, Dumitrascu G, Constantin C, Neagu M. Proteomics focusing on immune markers in psoriatic arthritis. Biomark Med 2014; 9:513-28. [PMID: 25034152 DOI: 10.2217/bmm.14.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune-pathogenesis of psoriatic arthritis represents a subject of intense research, as a still unknown factor can trigger the chronic inflammation that, upon a defective immune terrain, generates this auto-immune/auto-inflammatory condition. The pathogenesis complexity of psoriatic arthritis resides in the psoriatic synovitis milieu, where intricate immune relations are emerging during disease development. Innate immune response generates inflammatory cytokines driving effectors functions for immune and non-immune cells that sustain the chronical character of the synovitis. Herein, we review the updated information regarding biomarkers/immune markers that sustain the heterogeneity and complexity of psoriatic arthritis pathogenesis, this complexity leading to multifaceted methodological approaches for disease investigation. New immune proteomic or genomic biomarkers can enlarge and identify new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantin Caruntu
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine & Pharmacy, 22-24 Gr. Manolescu, 0111234, Sector 1, Bucharest, Romania.,"Victor Babes" National Institute of Pathology,99-101 Splaiul Independentei, 050096, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Boda
- Dermatology Research Laboratory, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine & Pharmacy, 22-24 Gr. Manolescu, 0111234, Sector 1, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Georgiana Dumitrascu
- "Victor Babes" National Institute of Pathology,99-101 Splaiul Independentei, 050096, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- "Victor Babes" National Institute of Pathology,99-101 Splaiul Independentei, 050096, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- "Victor Babes" National Institute of Pathology,99-101 Splaiul Independentei, 050096, Bucharest, Romania
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Stress-induced mast cell activation in glabrous and hairy skin. Mediators Inflamm 2014; 2014:105950. [PMID: 24904196 PMCID: PMC4034722 DOI: 10.1155/2014/105950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells play a key role in modulation of stress-induced cutaneous inflammation. In this study we investigate the impact of repeated exposure to stress on mast cell degranulation, in both hairy and glabrous skin. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Stress 1 day (n = 8), Stress 10 days (n = 7), Stress 21 days (n = 6), and Control (n = 8). Rats in the stress groups were subjected to 2 h/day restraint stress. Subsequently, glabrous and hairy skin samples from animals of all groups were collected to assess mast cell degranulation by histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. The impact of stress on mast cell degranulation was different depending on the type of skin and duration of stress exposure. Short-term stress exposure induced an amplification of mast cell degranulation in hairy skin that was maintained after prolonged exposure to stress. In glabrous skin, even though acute stress exposure had a profound stimulating effect on mast cell degranulation, it diminished progressively with long-term exposure to stress. The results of our study reinforce the view that mast cells are active players in modulating skin responses to stress and contribute to further understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms involved in stress-induced initiation or exacerbation of cutaneous inflammatory processes.
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