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Jaiswal A, Shrivastav S, Kushwaha HR, Chaturvedi R, Singh RP. Oncogenic potential of SARS-CoV-2-targeting hallmarks of cancer pathways. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:447. [PMID: 39327555 PMCID: PMC11426004 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01818-0] [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: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The 2019 outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 has caused a major worldwide health crisis with high rates of morbidity and death. Interestingly, it has also been linked to cancer, which begs the issue of whether it plays a role in carcinogenesis. Recent studies have revealed various mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 can influence oncogenic pathways, potentially promoting cancer development. The virus encodes several proteins that alter key signaling pathways associated with cancer hallmarks. Unlike classical oncogenic viruses, which transform cells through viral oncogenes or by activating host oncogenes, SARS-CoV-2 appears to promote tumorigenesis by inhibiting tumor suppressor genes and pathways while activating survival, proliferation, and inflammation-associated signaling cascades. Bioinformatic analyses and experimental studies have identified numerous interactions between SARS-CoV-2 proteins and cellular components involved in cancer-related processes. This review explores the intricate relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and cancer, focusing on the regulation of key hallmarks driving initiation, promotion and progression of cancer by viral proteins. By elucidating the underlying mechanisms driving cellular transformation, the potential of SARS-CoV-2 as an oncovirus is highlighted. Comprehending these interplays is essential to enhance our understanding of COVID-19 and cancer biology and further formulating strategies to alleviate SARS-CoV-2 influence on cancer consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Jaiswal
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Sanah Shrivastav
- SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Delhi-NCR Campus, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Hemant R Kushwaha
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- Special Centre for Systems Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rupesh Chaturvedi
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- Special Centre for Systems Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rana P Singh
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
- Special Centre for Systems Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Barkay O, Karakeçili F. Hypochloremia: A Potential Indicator of Poor Outcomes in COVID-19. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:1414. [PMID: 39336455 PMCID: PMC11434189 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60091414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) has posed formidable challenges to healthcare systems. Exploring novel biomarkers that can provide valuable prognostic insights, particularly in critically ill patients, has a significant importance. Against this backdrop, our study aims to elucidate the associations between serum chloride levels and clinical outcomes. Methods: A total of 499 patients were enrolled into the study. The serum chloride levels of patients upon hospital admission were recorded and then categorized into three groups (hypochloremia, normochloremia, and hyperchloremia) for the evaluation of clinical outcomes. Additionally, serum C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and D-dimer measurements were recorded for further evaluation. Results: A total of 390 (78.1%) patients tested positive for COVID-19 via polymerase chain reaction testing. Non-contrast thorax computed tomography scans were indicative of COVID-19 compatibility for all patients. A total of 210 (42%) patients were female and 289 (58%) were male. A total of 214 (42.8%) patients necessitated tocilizumab intervention; 250 (50.1%) were at an intensive care unit (ICU), with 166 (66.4%) of them receiving tocilizumab. A total of 65 (13%) patients died, 40 (61.5%) of whom received tocilizumab; 41 (63%) were in the ICU. Serum chloride levels upon admission were markedly lower and elevated D-dimer levels were apparent in tocilizumab users, patients requiring ICU care, and patients who died. Conclusions: our findings provide robust evidence supporting the value of serum chloride levels as a prognostic biomarker in critically ill COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orçun Barkay
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan 24100, Turkey
| | - Faruk Karakeçili
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan 24100, Turkey
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3
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Conte C, Cipponeri E, Roden M. Diabetes Mellitus, Energy Metabolism, and COVID-19. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:281-308. [PMID: 37934800 PMCID: PMC10911957 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnad032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Obesity, diabetes mellitus (mostly type 2), and COVID-19 show mutual interactions because they are not only risk factors for both acute and chronic COVID-19 manifestations, but also because COVID-19 alters energy metabolism. Such metabolic alterations can lead to dysglycemia and long-lasting effects. Thus, the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential for a further rise of the diabetes pandemic. This review outlines how preexisting metabolic alterations spanning from excess visceral adipose tissue to hyperglycemia and overt diabetes may exacerbate COVID-19 severity. We also summarize the different effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the key organs and tissues orchestrating energy metabolism, including adipose tissue, liver, skeletal muscle, and pancreas. Last, we provide an integrative view of the metabolic derangements that occur during COVID-19. Altogether, this review allows for better understanding of the metabolic derangements occurring when a fire starts from a small flame, and thereby help reducing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Conte
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome 00166, Italy
- Department of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan 20099, Italy
| | - Elisa Cipponeri
- Department of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan 20099, Italy
| | - Michael Roden
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research, Partner Düsseldorf, Neuherberg 85764, Germany
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4
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Shafqat A, Omer MH, Albalkhi I, Alabdul Razzak G, Abdulkader H, Abdul Rab S, Sabbah BN, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Neutrophil extracellular traps and long COVID. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1254310. [PMID: 37828990 PMCID: PMC10565006 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1254310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-acute COVID-19 sequelae, commonly known as long COVID, encompasses a range of systemic symptoms experienced by a significant number of COVID-19 survivors. The underlying pathophysiology of long COVID has become a topic of intense research discussion. While chronic inflammation in long COVID has received considerable attention, the role of neutrophils, which are the most abundant of all immune cells and primary responders to inflammation, has been unfortunately overlooked, perhaps due to their short lifespan. In this review, we discuss the emerging role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the persistent inflammatory response observed in long COVID patients. We present early evidence linking the persistence of NETs to pulmonary fibrosis, cardiovascular abnormalities, and neurological dysfunction in long COVID. Several uncertainties require investigation in future studies. These include the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 brings about sustained neutrophil activation phenotypes after infection resolution; whether the heterogeneity of neutrophils seen in acute SARS-CoV-2 infection persists into the chronic phase; whether the presence of autoantibodies in long COVID can induce NETs and protect them from degradation; whether NETs exert differential, organ-specific effects; specifically which NET components contribute to organ-specific pathologies, such as pulmonary fibrosis; and whether senescent cells can drive NET formation through their pro-inflammatory secretome in long COVID. Answering these questions may pave the way for the development of clinically applicable strategies targeting NETs, providing relief for this emerging health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areez Shafqat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed H. Omer
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Khaled Alkattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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5
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Rizzi M, Tonello S, Brinno C, Zecca E, Matino E, Cittone M, Rizzi E, Casciaro GF, D’Onghia D, Colangelo D, Minisini R, Bellan M, Castello LM, Chiocchetti A, Pirisi M, Rigamonti C, Lilleri D, Zavaglio F, Bergami F, Sola D, Sainaghi PP. SARS-CoV-2 infection risk is higher in vaccinated patients with inflammatory autoimmune diseases or liver transplantation treated with mycophenolate due to an impaired antiviral immune response: results of the extended follow up of the RIVALSA prospective cohort. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1185278. [PMID: 37545528 PMCID: PMC10398576 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1185278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A relevant proportion of immunocompromised patients did not reach a detectable seroconversion after a full primary vaccination cycle against SARS-CoV-2. The effect of different immunosuppressants and the potential risks for SARS-CoV-2 infection in these subjects is largely unknown. Methods Patients from the Rivalsa prospective, observational cohort study with planned anti SARS-CoV-2 third dose mRNA vaccination between October and December 2021 were asked to participate to this follow-up study. Patients were asked about eventual confirmed positivity to SARS-CoV-2 infection within 6 months from the third dose and to undergo a blood draw to evaluate seroconversion status after the additional vaccine shot. Results 19 out of 114 patients taking part in the survey developed a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection; we identified mycophenolate treatment as an independent predictor of an increased risk of infection even after the third vaccine dose (OR: 5.20, 95% CI: 1.70-20.00, p=0.0053). This result is in agreement with the in vitro evidence that MMF impairs both B and T lymphocytes driven immune responses (reduction both in memory B cells producing anti-spike antibodies and in proliferating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells). Conclusions Immunocompromised patients need an additional vaccine administration to reach a detectable seroconversion, thus fostering a more personalized approach to their clinical management. Moreover, patients undergoing mycophenolate treatment show a specific increased infection risk, with respect to other immunosuppressants thus supporting a closer monitoring of their health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, and IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Cristiana Brinno
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Erika Zecca
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Erica Matino
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Micol Cittone
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rizzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Francesco Casciaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Davide D’Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, and IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi Mario Castello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera “SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo”, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Annalisa Chiocchetti
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, and IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, and IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Cristina Rigamonti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Daniele Lilleri
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Federica Zavaglio
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Federica Bergami
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniele Sola
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, and IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 sub-intensive unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology Unit, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, Novara, Italy
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6
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Antunes MDSM, Sugiyama FHC, Gravina HD, Castro RC, Mercado FJR, de Lima JO, Fontanari C, Frantz FG. COVID-19 inactivated and non-replicating viral vector vaccines induce regulatory training phenotype in human monocytes under epigenetic control. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1200789. [PMID: 37520439 PMCID: PMC10382685 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1200789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Trained immunity is the enhanced innate immune response resulting from exposure to pathogens or vaccines against an unrelated pathogen stimulus. Certain vaccines induce a memory like response in monocytes and NK cells, leading to modulation in cytokine production, metabolic changes, and modifications in histone patterns. Here, we hypothesized that vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 could induce the training of monocytes in addition to stimulating the adaptive immune response. Methods Therefore, we aimed to investigate the immunophenotyping, cytokine and metabolic profile of monocytes from individuals who were completely immunized with two doses of inactivated COVID-19 vaccine or non-replicating viral vector vaccine. Subsequently, we investigated the epigenetic mechanisms underlying monocyte immune training. As a model of inflammatorychallenge, to understand if the monocytes were trained by vaccination and how they were trained, cells were stimulated in vitro with the endotoxin LPS, an unrelated stimulus that would provoke the effects of training. Results When challenged in vitro, monocytes from vaccinated individuals produced less TNF-α and those who received inactivated vaccine produced less IL-6, whereas vaccination with non-replicating viral vector vaccine induced more IL-10. Inactivated vaccine increased classical monocyte frequency, and both groups showed higher CD163 expression, a hallmark of trained immunity. We observed increased expression of genes involved in glycolysis and reduced IRG1 expression in vaccinated subjects, a gene associated with the tolerance phenotype in monocytes. We observed that both vaccines reduced the chromatin accessibility of genes associated with the inflammatory response, the inactivated COVID-19 vaccine trained monocytes to a regulatory phenotype mediated by histone modifications in the IL6 and IL10 genes, while the non-replicating viral vector COVID-19 vaccine trained monocytes to a regulatory phenotype, mediated by histone modifications in the IL6, IL10, TNF, and CCL2 genes. Conclusions Our findings support the recognized importance of adopting vaccination against SARS CoV-2, which has been shown to be effective in enhancing the adaptive immune response against the virus and reducing mortality and morbidity rates. Here, we provide evidence that vaccination also modulates the innate immune response by controlling the detrimental inflammatory response to unrelated pathogen stimulation.
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Yokoe S, Kinose D, Ueki Y, Okuda S, Nakanishi T, Iriyama T, Yamazaki A, Kawashima S, Uchida Y, Nakagawa H, Yamaguchi M, Nakano Y. WITHDRAWN: Autobullectomy with COVID-19 in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Respir Med Case Rep 2023; 45:101888. [PMID: 37860037 PMCID: PMC10582620 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2023.101888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Yokoe
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kinose
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yasumitsu Ueki
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Shogo Okuda
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Nakanishi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tomoko Iriyama
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Akio Yamazaki
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Satoru Kawashima
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yasuki Uchida
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakagawa
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Masafumi Yamaguchi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yasutaka Nakano
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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8
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Yokoe S, Kinose D, Ueki Y, Okuda S, Nakanishi T, Iriyama T, Yamazaki A, Kawashima S, Uchida Y, Nakagawa H, Yamaguchi M, Nakano Y. Autobullectomy with COVID-19 in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Respir Med Case Rep 2023; 44:101880. [PMID: 37274624 PMCID: PMC10229443 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2023.101880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A 72-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was admitted for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). He was discharged on day 30; however, he was readmitted 6 days later due to a left lung organizing pneumonia secondary to COVID-19. After methylprednisolone treatment, the patient was discharged on day 15. One year later, computed tomography showed shrinkage of emphysematous lesions, and both total lung capacity measured using computed tomography and fraction of low attenuation volume decreased in the left lung compared to that before COVID-19. Here, we report a rare case of autobullectomy with COVID-19 in a patient with COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Yokoe
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kinose
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yasumitsu Ueki
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Shogo Okuda
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Nakanishi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tomoko Iriyama
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Akio Yamazaki
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Satoru Kawashima
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yasuki Uchida
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakagawa
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Masafumi Yamaguchi
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yasutaka Nakano
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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9
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Bafleh WS, Abdulsamad HMR, Al-Qaraghuli SM, El Khatib RY, Elbahrawi RT, Abdukadir AM, Alsawae SM, Dimassi Z, Hamdan H, Kashir J. Applications of advances in mRNA-based platforms as therapeutics and diagnostics in reproductive technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1198848. [PMID: 37305677 PMCID: PMC10250609 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1198848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic led to many drastic changes in not only society, law, economics, but also in science and medicine, marking for the first time when drug regulatory authorities cleared for use mRNA-based vaccines in the fight against this outbreak. However, while indeed representing a novel application of such technology in the context of vaccination medicine, introducing RNA into cells to produce resultant molecules (proteins, antibodies, etc.) is not a novel principle. It has been common practice to introduce/inject mRNA into oocytes and embryos to inhibit, induce, and identify several factors in a research context, while such aspects have also been proposed as potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications to combat infertility in humans. Herein, we describe key areas where mRNA-based platforms have thus far represented potential areas of clinical applications, describing the advantages and limitations of such applications. Finally, we also discuss how recent advances in mRNA-based platforms, driven by the recent pandemic, may stand to benefit the treatment of infertility in humans. We also present brief future directions as to how we could utilise recent and current advancements to enhance RNA therapeutics within reproductive biology, specifically with relation to oocyte and embryo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wjdan S. Bafleh
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haia M. R. Abdulsamad
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sally M. Al-Qaraghuli
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Riwa Y. El Khatib
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rawdah Taha Elbahrawi
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azhar Mohamud Abdukadir
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Zakia Dimassi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamdan Hamdan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center (HEIC), Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Junaid Kashir
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Rizzi M, D'Onghia D, Tonello S, Minisini R, Colangelo D, Bellan M, Castello LM, Gavelli F, Avanzi GC, Pirisi M, Sainaghi PP. COVID-19 Biomarkers at the Crossroad between Patient Stratification and Targeted Therapy: The Role of Validated and Proposed Parameters. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087099. [PMID: 37108262 PMCID: PMC10138390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms and COVID-19 pathophysiology have enormously increased during the pandemic. Nevertheless, because of the great heterogeneity of disease manifestations, a precise patient stratification at admission is still difficult, thus rendering a rational allocation of limited medical resources as well as a tailored therapeutic approach challenging. To date, many hematologic biomarkers have been validated to support the early triage of SARS-CoV-2-positive patients and to monitor their disease progression. Among them, some indices have proven to be not only predictive parameters, but also direct or indirect pharmacological targets, thus allowing for a more tailored approach to single-patient symptoms, especially in those with severe progressive disease. While many blood test-derived parameters quickly entered routine clinical practice, other circulating biomarkers have been proposed by several researchers who have investigated their reliability in specific patient cohorts. Despite their usefulness in specific contexts as well as their potential interest as therapeutic targets, such experimental markers have not been implemented in routine clinical practice, mainly due to their higher costs and low availability in general hospital settings. This narrative review will present an overview of the most commonly adopted biomarkers in clinical practice and of the most promising ones emerging from specific population studies. Considering that each of the validated markers reflects a specific aspect of COVID-19 evolution, embedding new highly informative markers into routine clinical testing could help not only in early patient stratification, but also in guiding a timely and tailored method of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide D'Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi Mario Castello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Gavelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Avanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
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11
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Matino E, Tavella E, Rizzi M, Avanzi GC, Azzolina D, Battaglia A, Becco P, Bellan M, Bertinieri G, Bertoletti M, Casciaro GF, Castello LM, Colageo U, Colangelo D, Comolli D, Costanzo M, Croce A, D’Onghia D, Della Corte F, De Mitri L, Dodaro V, Givone F, Gravina A, Grillenzoni L, Gusmaroli G, Landi R, Lingua A, Manzoni R, Marinoni V, Masturzo B, Minisini R, Morello M, Nelva A, Ortone E, Paolella R, Patti G, Pedrinelli A, Pirisi M, Ravizzi L, Rizzi E, Sola D, Sola M, Tonello N, Tonello S, Topazzo G, Tua A, Valenti P, Vaschetto R, Vassia V, Zecca E, Zublena N, Manzoni P, Sainaghi PP. Effect of Lactoferrin on Clinical Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: The LAC Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients 2023; 15:1285. [PMID: 36904283 PMCID: PMC10005739 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As lactoferrin is a nutritional supplement with proven antiviral and immunomodulatory abilities, it may be used to improve the clinical course of COVID-19. The clinical efficacy and safety of bovine lactoferrin were evaluated in the LAC randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. A total of 218 hospitalized adult patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 were randomized to receive 800 mg/die oral bovine lactoferrin (n = 113) or placebo (n = 105), both given in combination with standard COVID-19 therapy. No differences in lactoferrin vs. placebo were observed in the primary outcomes: the proportion of death or intensive care unit admission (risk ratio of 1.06 (95% CI 0.63-1.79)) or proportion of discharge or National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) ≤ 2 within 14 days from enrollment (RR of 0.85 (95% CI 0.70-1.04)). Lactoferrin showed an excellent safety and tolerability profile. Even though bovine lactoferrin is safe and tolerable, our results do not support its use in hospitalized patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Matino
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Elena Tavella
- Department of Maternal-Infant Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Avanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Danila Azzolina
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Antonio Battaglia
- Division of Dermatology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Becco
- Division of Oncology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bertinieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Francesco Casciaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi Mario Castello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera “SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo”, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Umberto Colageo
- Intensive Care Unit, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide Comolli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Martina Costanzo
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Croce
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide D’Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Della Corte
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi De Mitri
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Valentina Dodaro
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Filippo Givone
- Division of Pneumology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Alessia Gravina
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Luca Grillenzoni
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Landi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Lingua
- Division of Infectious Disease, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Roberto Manzoni
- Division of Dermatology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Vito Marinoni
- Division of Geriatric Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Marina Morello
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Anna Nelva
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Elena Ortone
- Division of Geriatric Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Rita Paolella
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Patti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Medical Department, Division of Cardiology, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anita Pedrinelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Lidia Ravizzi
- Division of Pneumology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rizzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Daniele Sola
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mariolina Sola
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Nadir Tonello
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gigliola Topazzo
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Aldo Tua
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Vaschetto
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Veronica Vassia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Erika Zecca
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Zublena
- Division of Palliative Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Manzoni
- Department of Maternal-Infant Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
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Rizzi M, Tonello S, D’Onghia D, Sainaghi PP. Gas6/TAM Axis Involvement in Modulating Inflammation and Fibrosis in COVID-19 Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020951. [PMID: 36674471 PMCID: PMC9861142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gas6 (growth arrest-specific gene 6) is a widely expressed vitamin K-dependent protein that is involved in many biological processes such as homeostatic regulation, inflammation and repair/fibrotic processes. It is known that it is the main ligand of TAMs, a tyrosine kinase receptor family of three members, namely MerTK, Tyro-3 and Axl, for which it displays the highest affinity. Gas6/TAM axis activation is known to be involved in modulating inflammatory responses as well as fibrotic evolution in many different pathological conditions. Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, this review will focus on Gas6/TAM axis activation in SARS-CoV-2 infection, where de-regulated inflammatory responses and fibrosis represent a relevant feature of severe disease manifestation. Furthermore, this review will highlight the most recent scientific evidence supporting an unsuspected role of Axl as a SARS-CoV-2 infection driver, and the potential therapeutic advantages of the use of existing Axl inhibitors in COVID-19 management. From a physiological point of view, the Gas6/TAM axis plays a dual role, fostering the tissue repair processes or leading to organ damage and loss of function, depending on the prevalence of its anti-inflammatory or profibrotic properties. This review makes a strong case for further research focusing on the Gas6/TAM axis as a pharmacological target to manage different disease conditions, such as chronic fibrosis or COVID-19.
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Bacorn M, Romero-Soto HN, Levy S, Chen Q, Hourigan SK. The Gut Microbiome of Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122460. [PMID: 36557713 PMCID: PMC9783902 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome has been shown to play a critical role in maintaining a healthy state. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome is involved in modulating disease severity and potentially contributes to long-term outcomes in adults with COVID-19. Due to children having a significantly lower risk of severe illness and limited sample availability, much less is known about the role of the gut microbiome in children with COVID-19. It is well recognized that the developing gut microbiome of children differs from that of adults, but it is unclear if this difference contributes to the different clinical presentations and complications. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of the gut microbiome in children with COVID-19, with gut microbiome dysbiosis being found in pediatric COVID-19 but specific taxa change often differing from those described in adults. Additionally, we discuss possible mechanisms of how the gut microbiome may mediate the presentation and complications of COVID-19 in children and the potential role for microbial therapeutics.
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Karami H, Karimi Z, Karami N. SARS-CoV-2 in brief: from virus to prevention. Osong Public Health Res Perspect 2022; 13:394-406. [PMID: 36617546 DOI: 10.24171/j.phrp.2022.0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), ahighly transmissible virus with a likely animal origin, has posed major and unprecedentedchallenges to millions of lives across the affected nations of the world. This outbreak firstoccurred in China, and despite massive regional and global attempts shortly thereafter, itspread to other countries and caused millions of deaths worldwide. This review presents keyinformation about the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and its associated disease (namely,coronavirus disease 2019) and briefly discusses the origin of the virus. Herein, we also brieflysummarize the strategies used against viral spread and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Karami
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Karimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Karami
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
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15
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A Regional Observational Study on COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CAPA) within Intensive Care Unit: Trying to Break the Mold. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8121264. [PMID: 36547597 PMCID: PMC9785727 DOI: 10.3390/jof8121264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The reported incidence of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) ranges between 2.4% and 35% in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, and awareness in the medical community is rising. We performed a regional retrospective observational study including patients diagnosed with CAPA defined according to the Modified AspICU Dutch/Belgian Mycosis Study Group and CAPA-EECMM, from five different ICUs, admitted between March, 2020 and September, 2021. Forty-five patients were included. The median age was 64 (IQR 60-72), mostly (73%) males. At ICU admission, the median Charlson comorbidity index was 3 (2-5), and the simplified acute physiology score (SAPS)-II score was 42 (31-56). The main underlying diseases were hypertension (46%), diabetes (36%) and pulmonary diseases (15%). CAPA was diagnosed within a median of 17 days (IQR 10-21.75) after symptoms onset and 9 days (IQR 3-11) after ICU admission. The overall 28-day mortality rate was 58%, and at univariate analysis, it was significantly associated with older age (p = 0.009) and SAPS-II score at admission (p = 0.032). The use of immunomodulatory agents, p = 0.061; broad-spectrum antibiotics, p = 0.091; positive culture for Aspergillus on BAL, p = 0.065; and hypertension, p = 0.083, were near reaching statistical significance. None of them were confirmed in multivariate analysis. In critically ill COVID-19 patients, CAPA acquired clinical relevance in terms of incidence and reported mortality. However, the risk between underdiagnosis-in the absence of specific invasive investigations, and with a consequent possible increase in mortality-and over-diagnosis (case identification with galactomannan on broncho-alveolar fluid alone) might be considered. Realistic incidence rates, based on local, real-life epidemiological data, might be helpful in guiding clinicians.
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Shafqat A, Omer MH, Ahmad O, Niaz M, Abdulkader HS, Shafqat S, Mushtaq AH, Shaik A, Elshaer AN, Kashir J, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. SARS-CoV-2 epitopes inform future vaccination strategies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1041185. [PMID: 36505475 PMCID: PMC9732895 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1041185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
All currently approved COVID-19 vaccines utilize the spike protein as their immunogen. SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) contain mutations in the spike protein, enabling them to escape infection- and vaccination-induced immune responses to cause reinfection. New vaccines are hence being researched intensively. Studying SARS-CoV-2 epitopes is essential for vaccine design, as identifying targets of broadly neutralizing antibody responses and immunodominant T-cell epitopes reveal candidates for inclusion in next-generation COVID-19 vaccines. We summarize the major studies which have reported on SARS-CoV-2 antibody and T-cell epitopes thus far. These results suggest that a future of pan-coronavirus vaccines, which not only protect against SARS-CoV-2 but numerous other coronaviruses, may be possible. The T-cell epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 have gotten less attention than neutralizing antibody epitopes but may provide new strategies to control SARS-CoV-2 infection. T-cells target many SARS-CoV-2 antigens other than spike, recognizing numerous epitopes within these antigens, thereby limiting the chance of immune escape by VOCs that mainly possess spike protein mutations. Therefore, augmenting vaccination-induced T-cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 may provide adequate protection despite broad antibody escape by VOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areez Shafqat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,*Correspondence: Areez Shafqat,
| | - Mohamed H. Omer
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Ahmad
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahnoor Niaz
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | | | | | - Abdullah Shaik
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled Alkattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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de León UAP, Resendis-Antonio O. Macrophage Boolean networks in the time of SARS-CoV-2. Front Immunol 2022; 13:997434. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.997434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Kudryavtsev IV, Arsentieva NA, Korobova ZR, Isakov DV, Rubinstein AA, Batsunov OK, Khamitova IV, Kuznetsova RN, Savin TV, Akisheva TV, Stanevich OV, Lebedeva AA, Vorobyov EA, Vorobyova SV, Kulikov AN, Sharapova MA, Pevtsov DE, Totolian AA. Heterogenous CD8+ T Cell Maturation and 'Polarization' in Acute and Convalescent COVID-19 Patients. Viruses 2022; 14:1906. [PMID: 36146713 PMCID: PMC9504186 DOI: 10.3390/v14091906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The adaptive antiviral immune response requires interaction between CD8+ T cells, dendritic cells, and Th1 cells for controlling SARS-CoV-2 infection, but the data regarding the role of CD8+ T cells in the acute phase of COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 syndrome are still limited. METHODS . Peripheral blood samples collected from patients with acute COVID-19 (n = 71), convalescent subjects bearing serum SARS-CoV-2 N-protein-specific IgG antibodies (n = 51), and healthy volunteers with no detectable antibodies to any SARS-CoV-2 proteins (HC, n = 46) were analyzed using 10-color flow cytometry. RESULTS Patients with acute COVID-19 vs. HC and COVID-19 convalescents showed decreased absolute numbers of CD8+ T cells, whereas the frequency of CM and TEMRA CD8+ T cells in acute COVID-19 vs. HC was elevated. COVID-19 convalescents vs. HC had increased naïve and CM cells, whereas TEMRA cells were decreased compared to HC. Cell-surface CD57 was highly expressed by the majority of CD8+ T cells subsets during acute COVID-19, but convalescents had increased CD57 on 'naïve', CM, EM4, and pE1 2-3 months post-symptom onset. CXCR5 expression was altered in acute and convalescent COVID-19 subjects, whereas the frequencies of CXCR3+ and CCR4+ cells were decreased in both patient groups vs. HC. COVID-19 convalescents had increased CCR6-expressing CD8+ T cells. Moreover, CXCR3+CCR6- Tc1 cells were decreased in patients with acute COVID-19 and COVID-19 convalescents, whereas Tc2 and Tc17 levels were increased compared to HC. Finally, IL-27 negatively correlated with the CCR6+ cells in acute COVID-19 patients. CONCLUSIONS We described an abnormal CD8+ T cell profile in COVID-19 convalescents, which resulted in lower frequencies of effector subsets (TEMRA and Tc1), higher senescent state (upregulated CD57 on 'naïve' and memory cells), and higher frequencies of CD8+ T cell subsets expressing lung tissue and mucosal tissue homing molecules (Tc2, Tc17, and Tc17.1). Thus, our data indicate that COVID-19 can impact the long-term CD8+ T cell immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor V. Kudryavtsev
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Akademika Pavlova 12, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia A. Arsentieva
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Zoia R. Korobova
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Dmitry V. Isakov
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Artem A. Rubinstein
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Akademika Pavlova 12, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg K. Batsunov
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina V. Khamitova
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Raisa N. Kuznetsova
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Tikhon V. Savin
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Tatiana V. Akisheva
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Akademika Pavlova 12, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oksana V. Stanevich
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, Prof. Popov St. 15/17, 197376 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksandra A. Lebedeva
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Evgeny A. Vorobyov
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Snejana V. Vorobyova
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexander N. Kulikov
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maria A. Sharapova
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Dmitrii E. Pevtsov
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Areg A. Totolian
- Medical Faculty, First Saint Petersburg State I. Pavlov Medical University, L’va Tolstogo St. 6-8, 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Laboratory of Immunology, Saint Petersburg Pasteur Institute, Mira 14, 197101 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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Shafqat A, Abdul Rab S, Ammar O, Al Salameh S, Alkhudairi A, Kashir J, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Emerging role of neutrophil extracellular traps in the complications of diabetes mellitus. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:995993. [PMID: 36082273 PMCID: PMC9445264 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.995993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune dysfunction is widely regarded as one of the central tenants underpinning the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. When discussing immunity, the role of neutrophils must be accounted for: neutrophils are the most abundant of the circulating immune cells and are the first to be recruited to sites of inflammation, where they contribute to host defense via phagocytosis, degranulation, and extrusion of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs are composed of DNA associated with nuclear and cytosolic neutrophil proteins. Although originally reported as an antimicrobial strategy to prevent microbial dissemination, a growing body of evidence has implicated NETs in the pathophysiology of various autoimmune and metabolic disorders. In these disorders, NETs propagate a pathologic inflammatory response with consequent tissue injury and thrombosis. Many diabetic complications—such as stroke, retinopathy, impaired wound healing, and coronary artery disease—involve these mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, we discuss laboratory and clinical data informing our understanding of the role of NETs in the development of these complications. NET markers, including myeloperoxidase, citrullinated histone H3, neutrophil elastase, and cell-free double-stranded DNA, can easily be measured in serum or be detected via immunohistochemical/immunocytochemical staining of tissue specimens. Therefore, NET constituents potentially constitute reliable biomarkers for use in the management of diabetic patients. However, no NET-targeting drug is currently approved for the treatment of diabetic complications; a candidate drug will require the outcomes of well-designed, robust clinical trials assessing whether NET inhibition can benefit patients in terms of morbidity, quality of life, health expenditures, and mortality. Therefore, much work remains to be done in translating these encouraging pieces of data into clinical trials for NET-targeting medications to be used in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areez Shafqat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Areez Shafqat
| | | | - Osama Ammar
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Anas Alkhudairi
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled Alkattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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20
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Lugarà M, Tamburrini S, Coppola MG, Oliva G, Fiorini V, Catalano M, Carbone R, Saturnino PP, Rosano N, Pesce A, Galiero R, Ferrara R, Iannuzzi M, Vincenzo D, Negro A, Somma F, Fasano F, Perrella A, Vitiello G, Sasso FC, Soldati G, Rinaldi L. The Role of Lung Ultrasound in SARS-CoV-19 Pneumonia Management. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081856. [PMID: 36010207 PMCID: PMC9406504 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to assess the role of lung ultrasound (LUS) in the diagnosis and prognosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia, by comparing it with High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT). Patients and methods: All consecutive patients with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalized in COVID Centers were enrolled. LUS and HRCT were carried out on all patients by expert operators within 48−72 h of admission. A four-level scoring system computed in 12 regions of the chest was used to categorize the ultrasound imaging, from 0 (absence of visible alterations with ultrasound) to 3 (large consolidation and cobbled pleural line). Likewise, a semi-quantitative scoring system was used for HRCT to estimate pulmonary involvement, from 0 (no involvement) to 5 (>75% involvement for each lobe). The total CT score was the sum of the individual lobar scores and ranged from 0 to 25. LUS scans were evaluated according to a dedicated scoring system. CT scans were assessed for typical findings of COVID-19 pneumonia (bilateral, multi-lobar lung infiltration, posterior peripheral ground glass opacities). Oxygen requirement and mortality were also recorded. Results: Ninety-nine patients were included in the study (male 68.7%, median age 71). 40.4% of patients required a Venturi mask and 25.3% required non-invasive ventilation (C-PAP/Bi-level). The overall mortality rate was 21.2% (median hospitalization 30 days). The median ultrasound thoracic score was 28 (IQR 20−36). For the CT evaluation, the mean score was 12.63 (SD 5.72), with most of the patients having LUS scores of 2 (59.6%). The bivariate correlation analysis displayed statistically significant and high positive correlations between both the CT and composite LUS scores and ventilation, lactates, COVID-19 phenotype, tachycardia, dyspnea, and mortality. Moreover, the most relevant and clinically important inverse proportionality in terms of P/F, i.e., a decrease in P/F levels, was indicative of higher LUS/CT scores. Inverse proportionality P/F levels and LUS and TC scores were evaluated by univariate analysis, with a P/F−TC score correlation coefficient of −0.762, p < 0.001, and a P/F−LUS score correlation coefficient of −0.689, p < 0.001. Conclusions: LUS and HRCT show a synergistic role in the diagnosis and disease severity evaluation of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Lugarà
- U.O.C. Internal Medicine, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (M.G.C.); (G.O.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Stefania Tamburrini
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Maria Gabriella Coppola
- U.O.C. Internal Medicine, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (M.G.C.); (G.O.)
| | - Gabriella Oliva
- U.O.C. Internal Medicine, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (M.G.C.); (G.O.)
| | - Valeria Fiorini
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Marco Catalano
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Roberto Carbone
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Pietro Paolo Saturnino
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Nicola Rosano
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonella Pesce
- U.O.C. Radiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (S.T.); (V.F.); (M.C.); (R.C.); (P.P.S.); (N.R.); (A.P.)
| | - Raffaele Galiero
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80121 Naples, Italy; (R.G.); (R.F.); (F.C.S.); (L.R.)
| | - Roberta Ferrara
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80121 Naples, Italy; (R.G.); (R.F.); (F.C.S.); (L.R.)
| | - Michele Iannuzzi
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive care Medicine, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy;
| | - D’Agostino Vincenzo
- U.O.C. Neurodiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.V.); (A.N.); (F.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Alberto Negro
- U.O.C. Neurodiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.V.); (A.N.); (F.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Francesco Somma
- U.O.C. Neurodiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.V.); (A.N.); (F.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Fabrizio Fasano
- U.O.C. Neurodiology, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy; (D.V.); (A.N.); (F.S.); (F.F.)
| | - Alessandro Perrella
- Infectious Diseases at Health Direction, AORN A. Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Vitiello
- Healt Direction, ASL Center Naples 1, P.O. Ospedale del Mare, 80147 Naples, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80121 Naples, Italy; (R.G.); (R.F.); (F.C.S.); (L.R.)
| | - Gino Soldati
- Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound Unit, Valle del Serchio General Hospital, Castelnuovo Garfagnana, 55032 Lucca, Italy;
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80121 Naples, Italy; (R.G.); (R.F.); (F.C.S.); (L.R.)
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21
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Iraci N, Corsaro C, Giofrè SV, Neri G, Mezzasalma AM, Vacalebre M, Speciale A, Saija A, Cimino F, Fazio E. Nanoscale Technologies in the Fight against COVID-19: From Innovative Nanomaterials to Computer-Aided Discovery of Potential Antiviral Plant-Derived Drugs. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1060. [PMID: 36008954 PMCID: PMC9405735 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The last few years have increasingly emphasized the need to develop new active antiviral products obtained from artificial synthesis processes using nanomaterials, but also derived from natural matrices. At the same time, advanced computational approaches have found themselves fundamental in the repurposing of active therapeutics or for reducing the very long developing phases of new drugs discovery, which represents a real limitation, especially in the case of pandemics. The first part of the review is focused on the most innovative nanomaterials promising both in the field of therapeutic agents, as well as measures to control virus spread (i.e., innovative antiviral textiles). The second part of the review aims to show how computer-aided technologies can allow us to identify, in a rapid and therefore constantly updated way, plant-derived molecules (i.e., those included in terpenoids) potentially able to efficiently interact with SARS-CoV-2 cell penetration pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Iraci
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (N.I.); (S.V.G.); (G.N.); (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Carmelo Corsaro
- Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Physics Science and Earth Science, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (A.M.M.); (M.V.); (E.F.)
| | - Salvatore V. Giofrè
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (N.I.); (S.V.G.); (G.N.); (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Giulia Neri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (N.I.); (S.V.G.); (G.N.); (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Angela Maria Mezzasalma
- Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Physics Science and Earth Science, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (A.M.M.); (M.V.); (E.F.)
| | - Martina Vacalebre
- Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Physics Science and Earth Science, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (A.M.M.); (M.V.); (E.F.)
| | - Antonio Speciale
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (N.I.); (S.V.G.); (G.N.); (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Antonina Saija
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (N.I.); (S.V.G.); (G.N.); (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Francesco Cimino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (N.I.); (S.V.G.); (G.N.); (A.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Enza Fazio
- Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Physics Science and Earth Science, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, I-98166 Messina, Italy; (A.M.M.); (M.V.); (E.F.)
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22
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Effect of Cholecalciferol Supplementation on the Clinical Features and Inflammatory Markers in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized, Open-Label, Single-Center Study. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14132602. [PMID: 35807783 PMCID: PMC9268385 DOI: 10.3390/nu14132602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies showed that a low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level was associated with a higher risk of morbidity and severe course of COVID-19. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of cholecalciferol supplementation on the clinical features and inflammatory markers in patients with COVID-19. A serum 25(OH)D level was determined in 311 COVID-19 patients. Among them, 129 patients were then randomized into two groups with similar concomitant medication. Group I (n = 56) received a bolus of cholecalciferol at a dose of 50,000 IU on the first and the eighth days of hospitalization. Patients from Group II (n = 54) did not receive the supplementation. We found significant differences between groups with the preferential increase in serum 25(OH)D level and Δ 25(OH)D in Group I on the ninth day of hospitalization (p < 0.001). The serum 25(OH)D level on the ninth day was negatively associated with the number of bed days (r = −0.23, p = 0.006); we did not observe other clinical benefits in patients receiving an oral bolus of cholecalciferol. Moreover, in Group I, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were significantly higher (p = 0.04; p = 0.02), while the C-reactive protein level was significantly lower on the ninth day of hospitalization (p = 0.02). Patients with supplementation of 100,000 IU of cholecalciferol, compared to those without supplementation, showed a decrease in the frequencies of CD38++CD27 transitional and CD27−CD38+ mature naive B cells (p = 0.006 and p = 0.02) and an increase in the level of CD27−CD38− DN B cells (p = 0.02). Thus, the rise in serum 25(OH)D level caused by vitamin D supplementation in vitamin D insufficient and deficient patients may positively affect immune status and hence the course of COVID-19.
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23
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Shafqat A, Arabi TZ, Sabbah BN, Abdulkader HS, Shafqat S, Razak A, Kashir J, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Understanding COVID-19 Vaccines Today: Are T-cells Key Players? Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:904. [PMID: 35746512 PMCID: PMC9227180 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10060904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has heavily mutated since the beginning of the coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In this regard, the so-called variants of concern (VOCs) feature mutations that confer increased transmissibility and evasion of antibody responses. The VOCs have caused significant spikes in COVID-19 cases, raising significant concerns about whether COVID-19 vaccines will protect against current and future variants. In this context, whereas the protection COVID-19 vaccines offer against the acquisition of infection appears compromised, the protection against severe COVID-19 is maintained. From an immunologic standpoint, this is likely underpinned by the maintenance of T-cell responses against VOCs. Therefore, the role of T-cells is essential to understanding the broader adaptive immune response to COVID-19, which has the potential to shape public policies on vaccine protocols and inform future vaccine design. In this review, we survey the literature on the immunology of T-cell responses upon SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with the current FDA-approved and Emergency Use Authorized COVID-19 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areez Shafqat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Tarek Z. Arabi
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Belal N. Sabbah
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Humzah S. Abdulkader
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Shameel Shafqat
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, P.O. Box 3500, Karachi, Pakistan;
| | - Adhil Razak
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Khaled Alkattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
| | - Ahmed Yaqinuddin
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; (T.Z.A.); (B.N.S.); (H.S.A.); (A.R.); (J.K.); (K.A.); (A.Y.)
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24
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Fernandez-Patron C, Hardy E. Matrix Metalloproteinases in Health and Disease in the Times of COVID-19. Biomolecules 2022; 12:692. [PMID: 35625620 PMCID: PMC9138430 DOI: 10.3390/biom12050692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Much has been written about matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in health and disease conditions, but their roles in the setting of COVID-19 and associated illnesses remain understudied [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Fernandez-Patron
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Eugenio Hardy
- Center of Molecular Immunology, P.O. Box 16040, Havana 11600, Cuba
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