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D'Orazio N, Ficoneri C, Riccioni G, Conti P, Theoharides TC, Bollea MR. Conjugated Linoleic Acid: A Functional Food? Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 16:215-20. [PMID: 14611723 DOI: 10.1177/039463200301600305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific interest in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) started in 1987 when Michael Pariza's team of Wisconsin University observed its inhibitory effects on chemically induced skin tumors in mice. Numerous studies have since examined CLA's role in cancer, immune function, oxidative stress, atherosclerosis, lipid and fatty acids metabolism, bone formation and composition, obesity, and diabetes. Still it's not clear yet either through which mechanisms CLA produces its numerous metabolic effects. We now know that CLA contents in cow milk fat can be enriched through dry fractionation, but this knowledge doesn't allow sufficient certainty to qualify this nutrient, as a functional food, capable of increasing well being and reducing the risk of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- N D'Orazio
- Unit of Human Nutrition, Dept Biomedical Sciences, Chieti University, Chieti, Italy
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Pareta SK, Patra KC, Mazumder PM, Sasmal D. Aqueous extract of Boerhaavia diffusa root ameliorates ethylene glycol-induced hyperoxaluric oxidative stress and renal injury in rat kidney. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2011; 49:1224-1233. [PMID: 21846174 DOI: 10.3109/13880209.2011.581671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. (Nyctaginaceae) is widely used in traditional Indian medicines against renal afflictions including calcium oxalate (CaOx) urolithiasis and is known for antioxidant activity. OBJECTIVE The present study was designed to investigate the ameliorating effect of aqueous extract of B. diffusa roots (BDE) in hyperoxaluric oxidative stress and renal cell injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS In vitro antioxidant activity of BDE was estimated in terms of total phenolic content and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl free radical scavenging activity. Wistar albino rats were given 0.75% v/v ethylene glycol in drinking water to induce chronic hyperoxaluria and simultaneously BDE was given to nephrolithiasic treated rats at the dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w. orally for 28 days. Urinary volume, oxalate, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzyme (SOD, CAT, GST, GPx) were evaluated. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION BDE extract was found to posses a high total phenolic content and exhibited significant free radicals scavenging activity. Oxalate excretion significantly increased in hyperoxaluric animals as compared to control which was protected in BDE-treated animals. BDE treatment significantly reduced level of MDA and improved the activity of antioxidant enzymes followed by reduction in BUN and serum creatinine. In addition, BDE reduced the number of CaOx monohydrate crystals in the urine. Histological analysis depicted that BDE treatment inhibited deposition of CaOx crystal and renal cell damage. CONCLUSION The present study reveals that antioxidant activity of BDE significantly protects against hyperoxaluric oxidative stress and renal cell injury in urolithiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surendra K Pareta
- S.L.T. Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Ghasidas University, Bilapur, India.
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Tsujihata M, Yoshioka I, Tsujimura A, Nonomura N, Okuyama A. Why does atorvastatin inhibit renal crystal retention? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 39:379-83. [PMID: 21400107 DOI: 10.1007/s00240-011-0370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2010] [Accepted: 02/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we reported that atorvastatin prevents renal tubular cell injury by oxalate and inhibits renal crystal retention. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which atorvastatin inhibits renal crystal retention. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were separated into four experimental groups, and the ethylene glycol model of hyperoxaluria and the atorvastatin treatment model were analyzed. To clarify the mechanism by which atorvastatin inhibits renal crystal retention, the removed kidneys were used for the quantitative analysis of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. The subunits of the NADPH oxidase system were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Furthermore, the level of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in kidney tissue was compared in each group. Atorvastatin treatment increased the SOD and catalase level compared with the stone-forming control group. Atorvastatin treatment decreased the expression of NOX-1 mRNA. Furthermore, the level of TGF-β was suppressed by atorvastatin treatment. We found that atorvastatin have inhibited calcium oxalate (CaOX) urolithiasis formation. We hypothesize that the mechanism of action of atorvastatin involves inhibiting TGF-β and NADPH oxidase, and increasing the SOD and catalase level. We believe that atorvastatin will be helpful in the treatment of CaOX urolithiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masao Tsujihata
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamada-oka, Suita 565-0871, Japan.
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Vervaet BA, Verhulst A, De Broe ME, D'Haese PC. The tubular epithelium in the initiation and course of intratubular nephrocalcinosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 38:249-56. [PMID: 20680256 DOI: 10.1007/s00240-010-0290-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Accepted: 06/24/2010] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Intratubular nephrocalcinosis is defined as the histological observation of calcium oxalate and/or calcium phosphate deposits retained within the lumen of the renal tubules. As the tubular epithelium is the primary interaction partner of crystals formed in the tubular fluid, the role of the epithelial cells in nephrocalcinosis has been investigated intensively. This review summarizes our current understanding on how the tubular epithelium mechanistically appears to be involved both in the initiation and in the course of nephrocalcinosis, with emphasis on in vivo observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A Vervaet
- Laboratory of Pathophysiology, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
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Kelly KJ, Dominguez JH. Treatment of the post-ischaemic inflammatory syndrome of diabetic nephropathy. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2010; 25:3204-12. [PMID: 20466672 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfq217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes mellitus and its complications are a public health problem of epidemic proportions. Both diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) increase the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). Months after a single episode of acute ischaemia to the diabetic kidney, we have found an accelerated progression of nephropathy, with impaired function, severe renal inflammation, microvascular dysfunction, fibrosis and apoptotic cell death. We termed this entity the post-ischaemic inflammatory syndrome. We now test the hypothesis that blocking inflammation ameliorates the post-ischaemic inflammatory syndrome. METHODS Obese-diabetic ZS rats (F(1) hybrids of spontaneously hypertensive heart failure and Zucker fatty diabetic rats) were treated with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), subjected to renal ischaemia or sham surgery, and monitored via the powerful technique of intravital microscopy. RESULTS Amelioration of post-ischaemia inflammation with MMF therapy improved long-term renal function, microvascular dysfunction, fibrosis and apoptosis. CONCLUSION These data support the hypothesis that the post-ischaemic inflammatory syndrome accelerates diabetic CKD, is a critical determinant of injury, and can be successfully treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Kelly
- 1Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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Rosivall L. Intrarenal renin-angiotensin system. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 302:185-92. [PMID: 18977408 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2008] [Revised: 09/21/2008] [Accepted: 09/22/2008] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Phylogenetically the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is an ancient regulatory system which has attracted the attention of researchers for about a century. As a result of their efforts, different types of RAS inhibitors are now widely used as therapeutic medicines. The scientific enthusiasm toward RAS remains undiminished and new findings and discoveries are to be expected. Early investigators described the role of RAS in the local control of renal hemodynamics. This correlated well with the morphology of juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA). Recently developed imaging techniques has allowed for in vivo visualization of cellular functions and the use of molecular biological tools have shed new light on the morphology and physiology of renal RAS, especially in connection with the tubular system. RAS has gained recognition to be more than just an endocrine regulatory system for regulating hemodynamics and water/salt metabolism. RAS is a local tissue and/or cellular regulator with a wide range of effects exerted via various receptors. Local RAS is crucially involved in basic physiological processes like ontogenesis and cell proliferation as well as pathophysiological conditions such as inflammation and tissue fibrosis. These findings may open new frontiers for novel therapeutic approaches. This review focuses only on some specific - less discussed and recently described or hypothesized - morphological and functional aspects of intrarenal RAS, including in vivo imaging of RAS, its effects on juxtaglomerular apparatus and possible cooperative mechanisms among various local renal RAS systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Rosivall
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.
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Wolak T, Kim H, Ren Y, Kim J, Vaziri ND, Nicholas SB. Osteopontin modulates angiotensin II-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis of the kidney. Kidney Int 2009; 76:32-43. [PMID: 19357716 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2009.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Osteopontin, a secreted glycoprotein has been implicated in several renal pathological conditions such as those due to ureteral obstruction, ischemia, and cyclosporine toxicity. We studied its possible role in angiotensin II-mediated renal injury by infusing wild-type and osteopontin knockout mice with angiotensin II and found that it raised blood pressure and increased urinary albumin/creatinine ratios in both strains of mice. However, while wild-type mice responded to the infusion by macrophage infiltration and increased expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin, fibronectin, and transforming growth factor-beta; the osteopontin knockout mice developed none of these. Further, the knockout mice had increased expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1; NADPH oxidase subunits such as NOX2, gp47phox, and NOX4; and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 compared to the wild type animals. Proximal tubule epithelial cells in culture treated with recombinant osteopontin and angiotensin II had increased alpha-smooth muscle actin and transforming growth factor-beta expression. The effect of angiotensin II was blocked by an antibody to osteopontin. In addition, osteopontin attenuated angiotensin II-induced plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 expression. These studies show that osteopontin is a promoter and an inhibitor of inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis that is capable of modulating angiotensin II-induced renal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talya Wolak
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Li CY, Deng YL, Sun BH. Effects of apocynin and losartan treatment on renal oxidative stress in a rat model of calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis. Int Urol Nephrol 2009; 41:823-33. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-009-9534-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Tang S, Leung J, Chan L, Eddy A, Lai K. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor but not angiotensin receptor blockade or statin ameliorates murine adriamycin nephropathy. Kidney Int 2008; 73:288-99. [DOI: 10.1038/sj.ki.5002674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Masao Tsujihata
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
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Yu C, Gong R, Rifai A, Tolbert EM, Dworkin LD. Long-term, high-dosage candesartan suppresses inflammation and injury in chronic kidney disease: nonhemodynamic renal protection. J Am Soc Nephrol 2007; 18:750-9. [PMID: 17287430 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2006070770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that higher-than-usual antihypertensive dosages of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers may provide additional protection from progression of chronic renal disease; however, there have been few long-term studies, and the underlying mechanisms remain uncertain. This study examined the effects of long-term (14 mo) administration of ultrahigh dosages of the angiotensin receptor blocker candesartan on the progression of renal injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Beginning 8 wk after birth, SHR underwent unilateral nephrectomy and were given vehicle (control), or candesartan at a standard 5 mg/kg per d (T5), high 25 mg/kg per d (T25), or ultrahigh 75 mg/kg per d dosage (T75). After 2 wk, BP was reduced in all treated groups; however, it was better controlled in the high-dosage groups (T25 and T75). Urinary protein was significantly reduced in T75 after 2 wk of treatment and was also declined in the other two treatment groups but only after 2 mo. Exogenous angiotensin II test showed that complete angiotensin receptor blockade was achieved only in the high-dosage groups. Renal inflammation and macrophage (ED-1) infiltration were significantly ameliorated in both T25 and T75 but not in T5 rats. This was associated with the changes of tubular expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, RANTES (regulated upon expression normal T cell expressed and secreted), and the phosphorylated NF-kappaB, a marker for activation. Suppression of ED-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and RANTES expression and NF-kappaB activation were greater in T75 as compared with T25. These findings suggest that candesartan has dosage-dependent, anti-inflammatory effects that are mediated by suppression of NF-kappaB activation and chemokine expression. Renal protection with high-dosage therapy may depend on these nonhemodynamic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yu
- Division of Renal Disease, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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Umekawa T, Iguchi M, Uemura H, Khan SR. Oxalate ions and calcium oxalate crystal-induced up-regulation of osteopontin and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in renal fibroblasts. BJU Int 2006; 98:656-60. [PMID: 16925768 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-410x.2006.06334.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the responses of renal fibroblasts to high oxalate (Ox) and calcium Ox (CaOx) crystals, as the latter are found in the renal interstitium of patients with primary or enteric hyperoxaluria, and in animals with experimental CaOx nephrolithiasis, and are associated with tubulointerstitial inflammation (TI). TI might begin with the production of chemoattractants by the renal epithelial cells exposed to high Ox and/or CaOx crystals; as Ox levels are also high in the renal interstitium and crystal deposition in nephrolithiasis might start in the interstitium, we hypothesized that renal fibroblasts might also be involved in the development of TI. MATERIALS AND METHODS We exposed renal fibroblast cells of line NRK 49F in vitro to Ox ions (500 micromol/L) or CaOx monohydrate crystals (67 microg/cm(2)). We assessed the production of osteopontin and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and expression of their mRNA, in the cells. We also determined the cellular malondialdehyde content as a marker of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced lipid peroxidation, and Trypan blue staining and the release of lactate dehydrogenase as markers of injury. RESULTS Similar to renal epithelial cells, renal fibroblasts were stimulated by exposure to Ox and CaOx crystals. They showed signs of injury and ROS-induced lipid peroxidation. The mRNA expression and production of osteopontin and MCP-1 increased significantly. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that fibroblasts respond to high Ox and CaOx crystals by up-regulating specific pathways producing pro-inflammatory conditions. Migration of monocytes/macrophages to sites of interstitial crystal deposits can lead to localized interstitial inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohru Umekawa
- Department of Urology, Kinki University, School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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Khan SR. Hyperoxaluria-induced oxidative stress and antioxidants for renal protection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 33:349-57. [PMID: 16292585 DOI: 10.1007/s00240-005-0492-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2005] [Accepted: 06/08/2005] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Renal cellular exposure to oxalate (Ox) and/or CaOx crystals leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), development of oxidative stress followed by injury and inflammation. Renal injury and inflammation appear to play a significant role in stone formation. ROS are produced from many sources and involve a variety of signaling pathways. Tissue culture and animal model studies show that treatments with anti-oxidants and free radical scavengers reduce Ox/CaOx crystal induced injuries. In addition, CaOx crystal deposition in kidneys is significantly reduced by treatments with antioxidants and free radical scavengers, indicating their efficacy. These results point towards a great potential for the therapeutic application of antioxidants and free radical scavengers to reduce stone recurrence particularly after shock wave lithotripsy, which is itself known to generate ROS and cause renal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed R Khan
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA.
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Jonassen JA, Kohjimoto Y, Scheid CR, Schmidt M. Oxalate toxicity in renal cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 33:329-39. [PMID: 16284883 DOI: 10.1007/s00240-005-0485-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2005] [Accepted: 06/08/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to oxalate, a constituent of the most common form of kidney stones, generates toxic responses in renal epithelial cells, including altered membrane surface properties and cellular lipids, changes in gene expression, disruption of mitochondrial function, formation of reactive oxygen species and decreased cell viability. Oxalate exposure activates phospholipase A2 (PLA2), which increases two lipid signaling molecules, arachidonic acid and lysophosphatidylcholine (Lyso-PC). PLA2 inhibition blocks, whereas exogenous Lyso-PC or arachidonic acid reproduce many of the effects of oxalate on mitochondrial function, gene expression and cell viability, suggesting that PLA2 activation plays a role in mediating oxalate toxicity. Oxalate exposure also elicits potentially adaptive or protective changes that increase expression of proteins that may prevent crystal formation or attachment. Additional adaptive responses may facilitate removal and replacement of dead or damaged cells. The presence of different inflammatory cells and molecules in the kidneys of rats with hyperoxaluria and in stone patients suggests that inflammatory responses play roles in stone disease. Renal epithelial cells can synthesize a variety of cytokines, chemoattractants and other molecules with the potential to interface with inflammatory cells; moreover, oxalate exposure increases the synthesis of these molecules. The present studies demonstrate that oxalate exposure upregulates cyclooxygenase-2, which catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of prostanoids, compounds derived from arachidonic acid that can modify crystal binding and may also influence inflammation. In addition, renal cell oxalate exposure promotes rapid degradation of IkappaBalpha, an endogenous inhibitor of the NF-kappaB transcription factor. A similar response is observed following renal cell exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial cell wall component that activates toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). While TLRs are primarily associated with immune cells, they are also found on many other cell types, including renal epithelial cells, suggesting that TLR signaling could directly impact renal function. Prior exposure of renal epithelial cells to oxalate in vitro produces endotoxin tolerance, i.e. a loss of responsiveness to LPS and conversely, prior exposure to LPS elicits a similar heterologous desensitization to oxalate. Renal cell desensitization to oxalate stimulation may have profound effects on the outcome of renal stone disease by impairing protective responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Jonassen
- Department of Physiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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Gonçalves RG, Biato MA, Colosimo RDG, Martinusso CA, Pecly ID, Farias EK, Cardoso LR, Takiya CM, Ornellas JFR, Leite M. Effects of mycophenolate mofetil and lisinopril on collagen deposition in unilateral ureteral obstruction in rats. Am J Nephrol 2004; 24:527-36. [PMID: 15499219 DOI: 10.1159/000081706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2004] [Accepted: 09/09/2004] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in rats has been used as a model of renal interstitial fibrosis, in which therapeutic trials can be of important clinical relevance. In this study, we investigated the effects of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor lisinopril (L), and the combination of both drugs, given daily for 14 days to UUO rats, on the renal fibrogenic process triggered by UUO. METHODS Rats underwent surgical UUO, followed by treatment with daily doses of either MMF, lisinopril, or both, and were then sacrificed after 14 days. Kidney fragments were fixed for histopathological examination (hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff reactive) and immunohistochemistry for myofibroblasts (alpha-smooth muscle actin; alpha-SMA) and macrophages (ED-1). Histomorphometrical analysis of collagen was performed with Sirius red staining, and collagen content was assessed by the amount of hydroxyproline. Cortex and medulla were analyzed separately. RESULTS MMF, lisinopril and MMF+L reduced the density of alpha-SMA- and ED-1-positive cells (p < 0.05), interstitial volume (p < 0.05) and decreased Sirius-red-stained areas by 54.6, 35.6 and 58.0%, and hydroxyproline content by 60.1, 49.7 and 62.7%, respectively. No differences were observed among treated groups. CONCLUSION MMF and the ACE inhibitor lisinopril attenuated the progression of the fibrogenic process of UUO in an equivalent manner. The combination of both drugs did not add any further improvement in the collagen content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rômulo G Gonçalves
- Serviço de Nefrologia, Departamento de Clínica Médica, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Schiavone C, Salvatore L, Primavera A, Cuccurullo F, Verna N, Di Stefano F, Thomson E, Tenaglia R, Di Gioacchino M. Simple renal cysts in hypertensive patients: relation between cyst growing and anti-hypertensive therapy. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2003; 16:175-80. [PMID: 12797909 DOI: 10.1177/039463200301600212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The study investigates relationship between simple renal cyst enlargement studied by ultrasonography and anti-hypertensive treatment. To this purpose we enrolled 42 patients with newly diagnosed hypertension affected by simple renal cysts. Fourteen were randomly assigned to treatment with ACE-Inhibitors (group 1), twelve to diuretics (group 2) and sixteen to Ca-Antagonists (group 3). Patient performed a basal ultrasonography to evaluate basal cyst dimension before starting anti-hypertensive treatment. Following 12 months of the anti-hypertensive regimen, a new echograph was performed to evaluate changes in cyst size. A control group consisting of 15 patients with normal blood pressure and simple renal cysts was enrolled (group 0). An enlargement of cysts was detected in all patients. However, the enlargement observed in patients treated by Ca-Antagonists was significantly greater than that observed in the other groups (p<0.05). Our study supports the hypothesis that Ca-Antagonists may favor cyst enlargement by enhancing cyclic AMP production. In fact, cAMP and cAMP agonists stimulate fluid secretion by lining cells of the cyst wall, inducing cyst enlargement.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Schiavone
- Echography Unit, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
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Manna R, Miele L, La Regina M, Grieco A, Gasbarrini G. Cryoglobulinemia: a true internistic disease? Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2003; 16:33-41. [PMID: 12578729 DOI: 10.1177/039463200301600105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryoglobulinemia is a clinical condition characterised by the presence of circulating globulins that precipitate at a temperature lower than 37 degrees Celsius and re-dissolve with warming. We can distinguish 3 different types of cryoglobulinemia, according to their immunochemical characteristics. Cryoglobulinemia can be associated with infectious, inflammatory or neoplastic disease. Cryoglobulinemia type II can be associated with chronic HCV-hepatitis. Clinically, cryoglobulinemias cause hyperviscosity-related symptoms or lesions by immunocomplex deposition (cryoglobulinemic vasculitis). Many organs and systems can be involved, from the skin to the joints, from the central nervous system to the kidney. Diagnosis requires a careful clinical and physical evaluation and the demonstration of circulating cryoglobulins by cryoprecipitation and immunoelectrophoresis. The therapeutic goals are the treatment of the underlying diseases and the complication and prevention of progression/relapse. It is obvious that this disorder can involve different specialists, but the internist plays a central role: he identifies the disease and the associated condition, he treats the underlying disorder and refers the patient to the specialists for the organ-specific manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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Frydas S, Madhappan B, Kempuraj D. Some aspects of Parasitology and Immunology in general Medicine. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2002; 15:165-170. [PMID: 12575916 DOI: 10.1177/039463200201500302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of these studies is to review the role of some parasites and their components in inflammation, allergy and immune system. We also report recent results published by others group as well as our own.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Frydas
- Parasitology Dept. Veterinary Faculty, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, Greece
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Di Napoli P, Taccardi AA, Grilli A, Felaco M, Di Gioacchino L, De Caterina R, Barsotti A. Verapamil reduces coronary endothelium damage and cardiomyocyte necrosis but not apoptosis after ischemia and reperfusion: ex-vivo study in rat hearts. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2002; 15:225-232. [PMID: 12575923 DOI: 10.1177/039463200201500309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis of beneficial effects of the calcium-blocker verapamil in a model of ischemia-reperfusion, and investigated its effects against coronary microcirculation and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Isolated working rat hearts were subjected to 15 min global ischemia and 22-180 min reperfusion in the presence or absence of verapamil (0.25 &mgr;M). We evaluated creatinephosphokinase (CK) in coronary effluent, heart weight changes, microvascular permeability (extravasation of fluoresceine-labeled albumin), ultrastructural alterations, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis (by 1.5% agarose gel electrophoresis and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labelling technique). In this model, 0.25 &mgr;M verapamil significantly reduced myocardial damage, CK release and vascular hyperpermeability, concomitant with a reduction in endothelial and cardiomyocyte lesions; on the contrary, 0.25 &mgr;M verapamil was unable to reduce cardiomyocyte apoptosis. In conclusion, in the absence of perfusing granulocytes, the acute administration of a pharmacologically relevant verapamil concentration reduces ischemia-reperfusion injury and prevents coronary endothelial cell and cardiomyocyte necrotic cell death but it is unable to reduce apoptotic cell death in isolated working rat hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Di Napoli
- Lab. Exp. Cardiology, University of Chieti, Italy
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Hatzistilianou M, Hitoglou S, Gougoustamou D, Rekliti A, Tzouvelekis G, Nanas C, Catriu D, Kotsis O. Serum procalcitonin, adenosine deaminase and its isoenzymes in the aetiological diagnosis of pneumonia in children. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2002; 15:119-127. [PMID: 12590874 DOI: 10.1177/039463200201500207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A prospective study was undertaken to assess the usefulness of leukocyte count, serum C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and the activities of total adenosine deaminase (tADA) and its isoenzymes ADA1 and ADA2, in the aetiological diagnosis of pneumonia in children. The study included three groups. Group A consisted of 23 children with bacterial pneumonia, group B of 50 children with viral and mycoplasmal pneumonia and group C of 46 healthy children. On the first day of admission in the clinic, blood samples were collected before the start of antimicrobial treatment, for culture, serological tests, leukocyte count and for the determination of CRP and PCT levels as well as tADA activity and its isoenzymes ADA1 and ADA2. According to our results, the mean leukocyte count and the mean concentrations of PCT and CRP were significantly higher in the children of group A than those in groups B and C. The admission serum PCT concentration has a higher sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value for bacterial pneumonia than either CRP or the leukocyte count. The mean serum tADA, ADA1 and ADA2 activity in children of group A was not significantly different from those in group C, while the difference between groups B and C was statistically significant. In conclusion, we found that CRP is a good marker for screening various infectious diseases, but it cannot be used to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. Serum PCT measurement might be a useful tool for the physician for the aetiological diagnosis of pneumonia in children. Measurements of serum tADA and ADA2 activity may provide useful additional diagnostic information on the aetiology of pneumonia so that appropriate antibiotic therapy can be given promptly. Further studies with larger patients groups are required to confirm our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Hatzistilianou
- 2nd Dept of Pediatrics, Medical school, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
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