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Ribeiro Franco PI, do Carmo Neto JR, Guerra RO, Ferreira da Silva PE, Braga YLL, Nunes Celes MR, de Menezes LB, Miguel MP, Machado JR. Melatonin: A look at protozoal and helminths. Biochimie 2024; 219:96-109. [PMID: 37541568 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a pleiotropic neurohormone found in different animal, plant, and microorganism species. It is a product resulting from tryptophan metabolism in the pineal gland and is widely known for its ability to synchronize the circadian rhythm to antitumor functions in different types of cancers. The molecular mechanisms responsible for its immunomodulatory, antioxidant and cytoprotective effects involve binding to high-affinity G protein-coupled receptors and interactions with intracellular targets that modulate signal transduction pathways. In vitro and in vivo studies have reported the therapeutic potential of melatonin in different infectious and parasitic diseases. In this review, the protective and pathophysiological roles of melatonin in fighting protozoan and helminth infections and the possible mechanisms involved against these stressors will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Igor Ribeiro Franco
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
| | - José Rodrigues do Carmo Neto
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Rhanoica Oliveira Guerra
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Escola de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Priscilla Elias Ferreira da Silva
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Yarlla Loyane Lira Braga
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Mara Rúbia Nunes Celes
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Liliana Borges de Menezes
- Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Setor de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Marina Pacheco Miguel
- Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Setor de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Juliana Reis Machado
- Departamento de Patologia, Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
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Brune MW, França EL, Moraes LCA, Ribeiro VP, Gomes MA, Honorio-França AC. Effects of Cytokines IFN-γ and TGF-β on the Functional Activity of Blood Mononuclear Cells against Giardia lamblia. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2021; 16:209-218. [PMID: 34557235 PMCID: PMC8418650 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v16i2.6269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to analyze cultures of mononuclear (MN) cells with Giardia lamblia to determine the levels of the cytokines IFN-γ and TGF-β and the functional activity of MN cells after incubation with cytokines. Methods: This study was conducted in 2018 in Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 60 healthy volunteer donors to obtain leukocytes. The levels of IFN-γ and TGF-β were quantified in trophozoite cell culture supernatants. Superoxide release, phagocytosis, microbicidal activity, apoptosis and intracellular calcium release were analyzed. Results: The cytokines evaluated were detected in the culture supernatant of MN cells and G. lamblia. Regardless of the type of cytokine, MN cells increased superoxide release in the presence of G. lamblia. Phagocytosis, microbicidal activity and apoptosis were higher when MN phagocytes were treated with cytokines. The highest microbicidal activity and apoptosis rates were observed in MN cells cultured with TGF-β. IFN-γ increased the release of intracellular calcium by MN phagocytes. Conclusion: Cytokines play a beneficial role in the host by activating MN cells against G. lamblia. In addition, phagocytosis causes G. lamblia death and that the modulation of the functional activity of blood MN phagocytes by cytokines is an alternative mechanism for eliminating G. lamblia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Wilhelm Brune
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.,Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Science, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Luzía França
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Pena Ribeiro
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | - Maria Aparecida Gomes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Science, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Gupta Y, Goicoechea S, Pearce CM, Mathur R, Romero JG, Kwofie SK, Weyenberg MC, Daravath B, Sharma N, Poonam, Akala HM, Kanzok SM, Durvasula R, Rathi B, Kempaiah P. The emerging paradigm of calcium homeostasis as a new therapeutic target for protozoan parasites. Med Res Rev 2021; 42:56-82. [PMID: 33851452 DOI: 10.1002/med.21804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Calcium channels (CCs), a group of ubiquitously expressed membrane proteins, are involved in many pathophysiological processes of protozoan parasites. Our understanding of CCs in cell signaling, organelle function, cellular homeostasis, and cell cycle control has led to improved insights into their structure and functions. In this article, we discuss CCs characteristics of five major protozoan parasites Plasmodium, Leishmania, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, and Cryptosporidium. We provide a comprehensive review of current antiparasitic drugs and the potential of using CCs as new therapeutic targets. Interestingly, previous studies have demonstrated that human CC modulators can kill or sensitize parasites to antiparasitic drugs. Still, none of the parasite CCs, pumps, or transporters has been validated as drug targets. Information for this review draws from extensive data mining of genome sequences, chemical library screenings, and drug design studies. Parasitic resistance to currently approved therapeutics is a serious and emerging threat to both disease control and management efforts. In this article, we suggest that the disruption of calcium homeostasis may be an effective approach to develop new anti-parasite drug candidates and reduce parasite resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Gupta
- Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, 32224, USA
| | - Steven Goicoechea
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Catherine M Pearce
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Raman Mathur
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jesus G Romero
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel K Kwofie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Matthew C Weyenberg
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Bharathi Daravath
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Neha Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Hansraj College University Enclave, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Poonam
- Department of Chemistry, Miranda House University Enclave, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | | | - Stefan M Kanzok
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ravi Durvasula
- Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, 32224, USA
| | - Brijesh Rathi
- Department of Chemistry, Hansraj College University Enclave, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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Kopustinskiene DM, Bernatoniene J. Molecular Mechanisms of Melatonin-Mediated Cell Protection and Signaling in Health and Disease. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13020129. [PMID: 33498316 PMCID: PMC7909293 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin, an endogenously synthesized indolamine, is a powerful antioxidant exerting beneficial action in many pathological conditions. Melatonin protects from oxidative stress in ischemic/reperfusion injury, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging, decreases inflammation, modulates the immune system, inhibits proliferation, counteracts the Warburg effect, and promotes apoptosis in various cancer models. Melatonin stimulates antioxidant enzymes in the cells, protects mitochondrial membrane phospholipids, especially cardiolipin, from oxidation thus preserving integrity of the membranes, affects mitochondrial membrane potential, stimulates activity of respiratory chain enzymes, and decreases the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore and cytochrome c release. This review will focus on the molecular mechanisms of melatonin effects in the cells during normal and pathological conditions and possible melatonin clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia M. Kopustinskiene
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu pr. 13, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Jurga Bernatoniene
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu pr. 13, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania;
- Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukileliu pr. 13, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Correspondence:
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Pereira QLC, Hara CDCP, Fernandes RTS, Fagundes DLG, França-Botelho ADC, Gomes MA, França EL, Honorio-França AC. Human colostrum action against Giardia lamblia infection influenced by hormones and advanced maternal age. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:1783-1791. [PMID: 29656328 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-5860-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Children are more susceptible to Giardia lamblia infection. Cells and hormones contained in human colostrum have an immunoprotective action against giardiasis, but the effects of advanced maternal age on these components are poorly understood. This study analyzed the colostrum of older women to determine melatonin and cortisol levels besides the participation of these hormones on the functional activity of phagocytes against G. lamblia. Colostrum samples were collected from younger (18 to 35 years old) and older (over 36 years old) lactating women. Colostrum samples were subjected to melatonin and cortisol determination, immunophenotyping, quantification of superoxide release, and assessment of phagocytic rate and microbicidal activity of phagocytes treated with hormones and in the presence of G. lamblia. Colostrum from mothers of advanced age contained higher melatonin and cortisol levels and a lower rate of cells expressing CD14+ and CD15+. In the colostru of these older mothers, melatonin increased superoxide release by phagocytes. In both groups, superoxide release by phagocytes treated with cortisol was higher in the presence of G. lamblia. In colostrum from mothers of advanced age, mononuclear (MN) phagocytes treated with melatonin showed higher phagocytosis of G. lamblia and higher microbicidal index. In younger mothers, MN and polymorphonuclear (PMN) colostrum phagocytes exhibited higher rates of G. lamblia elimination when treated with both melatonin and cortisol. In older mothers, cortisol and melatonin regulation for the functional activity of colostrum phagocytes against G. lamblia may represent an additional defense mechanism, relevant for the protection and treatment of parasitic infections in breastfed children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Queli Lisiane Castro Pereira
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.,Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Danny Laura Gomes Fagundes
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Aparecida Gomes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Luzía França
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
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The potential use of melatonin to treat protozoan parasitic infections: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 97:948-957. [PMID: 29136773 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a circadian hormone produced in vertebrates by the pineal gland and other organs. Melatonin is believed to influence immune cells leading to modulation of the proliferative response of stimulated lymphocytes as well as cytokine production. Due to the antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects of melatonin, it is suggested that this molecule could be a therapeutic alternative agent to fight bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections by a variety of mechanisms. Herein, we review the effects of melatonin on the cell biology of protozoan parasites and host's immune response. In toxoplasmosis, African trypanosomiasis and Chagas' disease, melatonin enhances host's immune response against the parasite via regulating the secretion of inflammatory mediators. In amoebiasis, melatonin reduces the amoebic lesions as well as increasing the leukophagocytosis and the number of dead amoebae. In giardiasis, serum melatonin levels are elevated in these patients; this suggests a positive correlation between the level of melatonin and phagocytic activity in the G. duodenalis infected patients, possibly related to melatonin's immunomodulatory effect. In leishmaniasis, melatonin arrests parasite replication accompanied by releasing mitochondrial Ca2+ into the cytosol, increasing the level of mitochondrial nitrites as well as reducing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. In malaria, melatonin synchronizes the Plasmodium cell cycle via modulating cAMP-PKA and IP3-Ca2+ pathways. Thus, simultaneous administration of melatonin agonists or giving pharmacological doses of melatonin may be considered a novel approach for treatment of malarial infection.
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7
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In vitro immunomodulatory effects of microemulsions with levamisole delivery systems on blood phagocytes interacting with Giardia lamblia. Parasitol Int 2017; 66:299-304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2017.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 02/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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8
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Al-Hadraawy SK, Al-ghurabi ME, Al-musawi MM, Alzeyadi M. Ghrelin and melatonin as biomarkers in patients with giardiasis. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2016.1149038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Malak Maged Al-musawi
- Department of Biology, College of Education for Girls, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Alzeyadi
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
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Moraes LCA, França EL, Pessoa RS, Fagundes DLG, Hernandes MG, Ribeiro VP, Gomes MA, Honorio-França AC. The effect of IFN-γ and TGF-β in the functional activity of mononuclear cells in the presence of Entamoeba histolytica. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:413. [PMID: 26249205 PMCID: PMC4528781 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-1028-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica) causes amoebiasis, which is a disease with significant morbidity and mortality. Phagocytic cells and cytokines appear to be important in amoebiasis, but very little is known about the influence of these cells and cytokines in protozoan infections. The aim of this study was to analyse the supernatant of cultures of mononuclear (MN) cells with E. histolytica to determine: 1) the levels of the cytokines IFN-γ and TGF-β, and 2) the amoebicidal activity of MN cells after incubation with cytokines. Methods Blood samples were collected from 30 volunteer donors. The cytokine concentrations in MN cells culture supernatants, superoxide release, leukophagocytosis, amoebicide activity, intracellular calcium release and apoptosis were analysed. Results The IFN-γ concentrations were 6.22 ± 0.36 and TGF-β concentrations were 17.01 ± 2.21 in cells–trophozoite culture supernatants. MN cells, independently of cytokines, in the presence of amoeba increase the superoxide release. In the absence of cytokines, the ingestion of MN cells by amoebae was higher. In the presence of IFN- γ or TGF- β, a lower ingestion of MN cells was observed by amoebae. MN cells treated with cytokines exhibited higher amoebicide and apoptosis indexes. The incubation of cytokines increased the intracellular calcium release by MN cells. Conclusions These results suggest that cytokines play a beneficial role for the host by activating MN cells against E. histolytica. The increased death of amoebae during the leukophagocytosis suggests that both cytokines (IFN-γ and TGF-β) can modulate the functional activity of MN cells and that these cytokines probably are important in the control of amoebic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucélia Campelo Albuquerque Moraes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. .,Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo Luzía França
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
| | - Rafael Souza Pessoa
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
| | - Danny Laura Gomes Fagundes
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
| | - Mara Gil Hernandes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. .,Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
| | - Victor Pena Ribeiro
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
| | - Maria Aparecida Gomes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Adenilda Cristina Honorio-França
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Rodovia BR070, Km 5 s/no, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
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Namıduru ES, Tarakçıoğlu M, Namıduru M, Kocabaş R, Erbağcı B, Meram I, Karaoğlan I, Yılmaz N, Cekmen M. Increased serum nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels in patients with acute intestinal amebiasis. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2015; 1:478-81. [PMID: 23569817 DOI: 10.1016/s2221-1691(11)60104-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 04/10/2011] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the level of oxygen-nitrogen stress parameters in the pathogenesis of amebiasis. METHODS Twenty-four acute intestinal amebiasis patients and 20 healthy controls were enrolled in the present study. Serum malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels were determined spectrophotometrically. RESULTS Serum malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels were significantly higher in acute intestinal amebiasis patients than healthy controls (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that oxidative and nitrosative stress may play a major role in tissue damage in acute intestinal amebiasis patients. Also these parameters can be used to supplement the conventional microscopic method for reliable diagnosis of intestinal amebiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E S Namıduru
- University of Gaziantep, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Gaziantep, Turkey
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Pessoa RS, França EL, Ribeiro EB, Lanes PKD, Chaud NGA, Moraes LCA, Honorio-França AC. Microemulsion of babassu oil as a natural product to improve human immune system function. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2014; 9:21-31. [PMID: 25565770 PMCID: PMC4274040 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s73756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a babassu oil microemulsion system and determine the effect of this microemulsion on the functional activity of phagocytes. Methods The microemulsion was formulated using distilled water, babassu as the oil phase component, Sorbitan monooleate-Span 80® (SP), Polysorbate 80-Tween 80® (TW), and 1-butanol (BT). Pseudoternary diagrams were prepared, and microemulsion diagram regions were preselected. Rheological characterization and preliminary and accelerated stability tests were performed. The effect of the microemulsion on the interactions between leukocytes and bacteria was determined by superoxide release, phagocytosis, and microbicidal activity. Results The developed formulation SP/TW/BT (4.2/4.8/1.0) was classified as oil/water, showed a Newtonian profile, and had linear viscosity. When we assessed the interaction of the microemulsion or babassu oil with phagocytes, we observed an increase in superoxide, phagocytosis, and microbicidal activity. Conclusion The babassu oil microemulsion system is an option for future applications, including for vaccine delivery systems. Babassu oil is a natural product, so is an alternative for future immunotherapy strategies, in particular for infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Souza Pessoa
- Post Graduate Program in Material Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Luzia França
- Post Graduate Program in Material Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil ; Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | - Elton Brito Ribeiro
- Post Graduate Program in Material Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Kelly Dias Lanes
- Post Graduate Program in Material Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | | | | | - Adenilda Cristina Honorio-França
- Post Graduate Program in Material Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil ; Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
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Vielma JR, Bonilla E, Chacín-Bonilla L, Mora M, Medina-Leendertz S, Bravo Y. Effects of melatonin on oxidative stress, and resistance to bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections: a review. Acta Trop 2014; 137:31-8. [PMID: 24811367 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2014.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, works directly and indirectly as a free radical scavenger. Its other physiological or pharmacological activities could be dependent or independent of receptors located in different cells, organs, and tissues. In addition to its role in promoting sleep and circadian rhythms regulation, it has important immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects suggesting that this indole must be considered as a therapeutic alternative against infections. The aim of this review is to describe the effects of melatonin on oxidative stress and the resistance to bacterial (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Clostridium perfringens), viral (Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus and respiratory syncytial virus), and parasitic (Plasmodium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Trypanosoma cruzi, Toxoplasma gondii, and Opisthorchis viverrini) infections.
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Elmahallawy EK, Jiménez-Aranda A, Martínez AS, Rodriguez-Granger J, Navarro-Alarcón M, Gutiérrez-Fernández J, Agil A. Activity of melatonin against Leishmania infantum promastigotes by mitochondrial dependent pathway. Chem Biol Interact 2014; 220:84-93. [PMID: 24973643 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2014.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis, a potentially fatal disease, remains a major international health problem. Only a limited number of effective antileishmanial agents are available for chemotherapy, and many of them are expensive with severe side effects or have a markedly reduced effectiveness due to the development of drug resistance. Hence, there is a genuine need to develop a novel effective and less toxic antileishmanial drug. Melatonin, a neurohormone found in animals, plants, and microbes, can participate in various biological and physiological functions. Several in vitro or in vivo studies have reported the inhibitory effect of melatonin against many parasites via various mechanisms, including modulation of intracellular concentrations of calcium in the parasite and/or any other suggested mechanism. Importantly, many of available antileishmanial drugs have been reported to exert their effects by disrupting calcium homeostasis in the parasite. The objective of the present study was to test the efficacy of exogenous melatonin against Leishmania infantum promastigotes in vitro. Interestingly, melatonin not only demonstrated a significant antileishmanial activity of against promastigote viability in tested cultures but was also accompanied by an alteration of the calcium homeostasis of parasite mitochondrion, represented by earlier mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, and by changes in some mitochondrial parameters are critical to parasite survival. These pioneering findings suggest that melatonin may be a candidate for the development of novel effective antileishmanial agents either alone or in associations with other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehab Kotb Elmahallawy
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Department of Zoonotic diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Aroa Jiménez-Aranda
- Department of Pharmacology and Neurosciences Institute (CIBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Javier Rodriguez-Granger
- Service of Microbiology and Parasitology, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Navarro-Alarcón
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Ahmad Agil
- Department of Pharmacology and Neurosciences Institute (CIBM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
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Franca EL, Franca-Botelho ADC, Franca JL, Ferrari CKB, Honorio-Franca AC. Repercussions of breastfeeding by diabetic women for breast cancer. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2014; 14:6233-9. [PMID: 24377510 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2013.14.11.6233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes represents a serious health problem. In the diabetic state, alterations in metabolism, increased susceptibility to infections and immunological changes occur. The suppression of the immune response has been identified as a relevant factor that contributes to the increase in the rate of infections in these patients. At the same time, breast cancer is the most frequent malignant tumor in women. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cancer development have revealed that immune cells functionally regulate epithelial cancer development and progression. Breastfeeding has been hypothesized to reduce the risk of breast cancer. However, early systematic reviews have not yielded consistent findings for this association. The demand for human milk is increasing due to the promotion and consumer acceptance of the health benefits of consuming a natural product rich in bioactive components. However, due to changes in glucose metabolism, the components of the milk from diabetic women are modified depending on the time of evaluation. In this literature review, we summarize important new findings revealing the paradoxical role of breastfeeding in preventing the onset of breast cancer in diabetic mothers. We hypothesized that the milk component production in diabetic mothers is affected by changes in glucose metabolism. Therefore, adequate maternal glycemic control and an adequate duration of breastfeeding for diabetic mothers are crucial to ensure that the immunity components are able to confer protection against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Luzia Franca
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso, Brazil E-mail :
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15
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The role of cytokines in the functional activity of phagocytes in blood and colostrum of diabetic mothers. Clin Dev Immunol 2013; 2013:590190. [PMID: 24489577 PMCID: PMC3877604 DOI: 10.1155/2013/590190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Revised: 11/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Immune response changes induced by diabetes are a risk factor for infections during pregnancy and may modify the development of the newborn's immune system. The present study analyzed colostrum and maternal and cord blood of diabetic women to determine (1) the levels of the cytokines IFN-γ and TGF-β and (2) phagocytic activity after incubation with cytokines. Methods. Colostrum and maternal and cord blood samples were classified into normoglycemic (N = 20) and diabetic (N = 19) groups. Cytokine levels, superoxide release, rate of phagocytosis, bactericidal activity, and intracellular Ca2+ release by phagocytes were analyzed in the samples. Irrespective of glycemic status, IFN-γ and TGF-β levels were not changed in colostrum and maternal and cord blood. In maternal blood and colostrum, superoxide release by cytokine-stimulated phagocytes was similar between the groups. Compared to spontaneous release, superoxide release was stimulated by IFN-γ and TGF-β in normoglycemic and diabetic groups. In the diabetic group, cord blood phagocytes incubated with IFN-γ exhibited higher phagocytic activity in response to EPEC, and maternal blood exhibited lower microbicidal activity. These data suggest that diabetes interferes in maternal immunological parameters and that IFN-γ and TGF-β modulate the functional activity of phagocytes in the colostrum, maternal blood, and cord blood of pregnant diabetic women.
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Morceli G, Honorio-França AC, Fagundes DLG, Calderon IMP, França EL. Antioxidant effect of melatonin on the functional activity of colostral phagocytes in diabetic women. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56915. [PMID: 23437270 PMCID: PMC3577679 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is involved in a number of physiological and oxidative processes, including functional regulation in human milk. The present study investigated the mechanisms of action of melatonin and its effects on the functional activity of colostral phagocytes in diabetic women. Colostrum samples were collected from normoglycemic (N = 38) and diabetic (N = 38) women. We determined melatonin concentration, superoxide release, bactericidal activity and intracellular Ca(2+) release by colostral phagocytes treated or not with 8-(Diethylamino) octyl-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoate hydrochloride (TMB-8) and incubated with melatonin and its precursor (N-acetyl-serotonin-NAS), antagonist (luzindole) and agonist (chloromelatonin-CMLT). Melatonin concentration was higher in colostrum samples from hyperglycemic than normoglycemic mothers. Melatonin stimulated superoxide release by colostral phagocytes from normoglycemic but not hyperglycemic women. NAS increased superoxide, irrespective of glycemic status, whereas CMTL increased superoxide only in cells from the normoglycemic group. Phagocytic activity in colostrum increased significantly in the presence of melatonin, NAS and CMLT, irrespective of glycemic status. The bactericidal activity of colostral phagocytes against enterophatogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) increased in the presence of melatonin or NAS in the normoglycemic group, but not in the hyperglycemic group. Luzindole blocked melatonin action on colostrum phagocytes. Phagocytes from the normoglycemic group treated with melatonin exhibited an increase in intracellular Ca(2+) release. Phagocytes treated with TMB-8 (intracellular Ca(2+) inhibitor) decreased superoxide, bactericidal activity and intracellular Ca(2+) release in both groups. The results obtained suggest an interactive effect of glucose metabolism and melatonin on colostral phagocytes. In colostral phagocytes from normoglycemic mothers, melatonin likely increases the ability of colostrum to protect against EPEC and other infections. In diabetic mothers, because maternal hyperglycemia modifies the functional activity of colostrum phagocytes, melatonin effects are likely limited to anti-inflammatory processes, with low superoxide release and bactericidal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gliciane Morceli
- Post Graduate Program in Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology of Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University/Unesp, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adenilda C. Honorio-França
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Danny L. G. Fagundes
- Post Graduate Program in Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology of Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University/Unesp, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Iracema M. P. Calderon
- Post Graduate Program in Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology of Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University/Unesp, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo L. França
- Institute of Biological and Health Science, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil
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Transfer of maternal immunity to newborns of diabetic mothers. Clin Dev Immunol 2012; 2012:928187. [PMID: 22991568 PMCID: PMC3444004 DOI: 10.1155/2012/928187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study was carried out with hyperglycemic pregnant women to investigate the transfer of antibody classes to newborns across the placenta or by colostrum and the functional activity of phagocytes in maternal blood, cord blood, and colostrum from diabetes mothers. Samples from maternal blood, cord blood, and colostrum were collected from 20 normoglycemic and 20 hyperglycemic pregnant women. We determined antibodies levels, superoxide release, phagocytosis and bactericidal activity of phagocytes. We demonstrated that IgG levels in cord blood were higher in the hyperglycemic group. IgA and IgM levels were higher in maternal than in cord blood samples. Plasma antibody levels were lower in hyper- than in normoglycemic women. The colostrum of diabetic mothers had lower IgA and IgG levels. Colostrum and maternal blood phagocytes when exposed to EPEC increased the superoxide release. Cord blood phagocytes of hyperglycemic group, independently of bacteria, had higher superoxide release. Colostrum and blood phagocytes from diabetic group exhibited some phagocytic and microbicidal activity in response to EPEC. Mononuclear phagocytes from cord blood had the lowest phagocytosis, and bactericidal activity for EPEC, regardless of glycemic status. These data showed that hyperglycemia altered IgG transfer across the placenta and decreases immunoglobulin levels in maternal blood and colostrum.
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Reinaque APB, França EL, Scherer EF, Côrtes MA, Souto FJD, Honorio-França AC. Natural material adsorbed onto a polymer to enhance immune function. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2012; 6:209-16. [PMID: 22956861 PMCID: PMC3431968 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s34622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background In this study, we produced poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) microspheres of different sizes and adsorbing a medicinal plant mixture, and verified their effect in vitro on the viability, superoxide production, and bactericidal activity of phagocytes in the blood. Methods The medicinal plant mixture was adsorbed onto PEG microspheres and its effects were evaluated by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Results Adsorption of the herbal mixture onto the PEG microspheres was achieved and the particles were internalized by phagocytes. PEG microspheres bearing the adsorbed herbal mixture stimulated superoxide release, and activated scavenging and microbicidal activity in phagocytes. No differences in functional activity were observed when the phagocytes were not incubated with PEG microspheres bearing the adsorbed herbal mixture. Conclusion This system may be useful for the delivery of a variety of medicinal plants and can confer additional protection against infection. The data reported here suggest that a polymer adsorbed with a natural product is a treatment alternative for enhancing immune function.
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