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Kaushal JB, Takkar S, Batra SK, Siddiqui JA. Diverse landscape of genetically engineered mouse models: Genomic and molecular insights into prostate cancer. Cancer Lett 2024; 593:216954. [PMID: 38735382 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216954] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a significant health concern for men worldwide and is particularly prevalent in the United States. It is a complex disease presenting different molecular subtypes and varying degrees of aggressiveness. Transgenic/genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) greatly enhanced our understanding of the intricate molecular processes that underlie PCa progression and have offered valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets for this disease. The integration of whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing, along with expression profiling, has played a pivotal role in advancing GEMMs by facilitating the identification of genetic alterations driving PCa development. This review focuses on genetically modified mice classified into the first and second generations of PCa models. We summarize whether models created by manipulating the function of specific genes replicate the consequences of genomic alterations observed in human PCa, including early and later disease stages. We discuss cases where GEMMs did not fully exhibit the expected human PCa phenotypes and possible causes of the failure. Here, we summarize the comprehensive understanding, recent advances, strengths and limitations of the GEMMs in advancing our insights into PCa, offering genetic and molecular perspectives for developing novel GEMM models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti B Kaushal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Simran Takkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
| | - Jawed A Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE-68198, USA.
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Liu RA, Wang BY, Chen X, Pu YQ, Zi JJ, Mei W, Zhang YP, Qiu L, Xiong W. Association Study of Pleural Mesothelioma and Oncogenic Simian Virus 40 in the Crocidolite-Contaminated Area of Dayao County, Yunnan Province, Southwest China. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2024; 28:189-198. [PMID: 38634609 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2023.0532] [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] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: In Dayao County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Southwest China, 5% of the surface is scattered with blue asbestos, which has a high incidence of pleural mesothelioma (PMe). Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a small circular double-stranded DNA polyomavirus that can cause malignant transformation of normal cells of various human and animal tissue types and promote tumor growth. In this study, we investigate whether oncogenic SV40 is associated with the occurrence of PMe in the crocidolite-contaminated area of Dayao County, Yunnan Province, Southwest China. Methods: Tumor tissues from 51 patients with PMe (40 of whom had a history of asbestos exposure) and pleural tissues from 12 non-PMe patients (including diseases such as pulmonary maculopathy and pulmonary tuberculosis) were collected. Three pairs of low-contamination risk primers (SVINT, SVfor2, and SVTA1) were used to detect the gene fragment of SV40 large T antigen (T-Ag) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The presence of SV40 T-Ag in PMe tumor tissues and PMe cell lines was detected by Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining with SV40-related antibodies (PAb 101 and PAb 416). Results: PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining results showed that the Met5A cell line was positive for SV40 and contained the SV40 T-Ag gene and protein. In contrast, the various PMe cell lines NCI-H28, NCI-H2052, and NCI-H2452 were negative for SV40. PCR was negative for all three sets of low-contamination risk primers in 12 non-PMe tissues and 51 PMe tissues. SV40 T-Ag was not detected in 12 non-PMe tissues or 51 PMe tissues by immunohistochemical staining. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the occurrence of PMe in the crocidolite-contaminated area of Yunnan Province may not be related to SV40 infection and that crocidolite exposure may be the main cause of PMe. The Clinical Trial Registration number: 2020-YXLL20.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru-Ai Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Biochemical Testing, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Bo-Yong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Biochemical Testing, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Biochemical Testing, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Yuan-Qian Pu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Biochemical Testing, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Jia-Ji Zi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Biochemical Testing, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Wen Mei
- Department of Pathology, The First People's Hospital of Chuxiong Prefecture, Chuxiong, China
| | - Ye-Pin Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The First People's Hospital of Chuxiong Prefecture, Chuxiong, China
| | - Lu Qiu
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chuxiong Normal College, Chuxiong, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Biochemical Testing, Dali University, Dali, China
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, Dali University, Dali, China
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Xiang K, Li Y, Cong H, Yu B, Shen Y. Peptide-based non-viral gene delivery: A comprehensive review of the advances and challenges. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 266:131194. [PMID: 38554914 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131194] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy is the most effective treatment option for diseases, but its effectiveness is affected by the choice and design of gene carriers. The genes themselves have to pass through multiple barriers in order to enter the cell and therefore require additional vectors to carry them inside the cell. In gene therapy, peptides have unique properties and potential as gene carriers, which can effectively deliver genes into specific cells or tissues, protect genes from degradation, improve gene transfection efficiency, and enhance gene targeting and biological responsiveness. This paper reviews the research progress of peptides and their derivatives in the field of gene delivery recently, describes the obstacles encountered by foreign materials to enter the interior of the cell, and introduces the following classes of functional peptides that can carry materials into the interior of the cell, and assist in transmembrane translocation of carriers, thus breaking through endosomal traps to enable successful entry of genetic materials into the nucleus of the cell. The paper also discusses the combined application of peptide vectors with other vectors to enhance its transfection ability, explores current challenges encountered by peptide vectors, and looks forward to future developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Xiang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yanan Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Hailin Cong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China; State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255000, China.
| | - Bing Yu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China; State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Youqing Shen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Center for Bio nanoengineering, and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
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Mead MN, Seneff S, Wolfinger R, Rose J, Denhaerynck K, Kirsch S, McCullough PA. COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines: Lessons Learned from the Registrational Trials and Global Vaccination Campaign. Cureus 2024; 16:e52876. [PMID: 38274635 PMCID: PMC10810638 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52876] [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] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of COVID-19 vaccinations and their impact on health and mortality has evolved substantially since the first vaccine rollouts. Published reports from the original randomized phase 3 trials concluded that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines could greatly reduce COVID-19 symptoms. In the interim, problems with the methods, execution, and reporting of these pivotal trials have emerged. Re-analysis of the Pfizer trial data identified statistically significant increases in serious adverse events (SAEs) in the vaccine group. Numerous SAEs were identified following the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), including death, cancer, cardiac events, and various autoimmune, hematological, reproductive, and neurological disorders. Furthermore, these products never underwent adequate safety and toxicological testing in accordance with previously established scientific standards. Among the other major topics addressed in this narrative review are the published analyses of serious harms to humans, quality control issues and process-related impurities, mechanisms underlying adverse events (AEs), the immunologic basis for vaccine inefficacy, and concerning mortality trends based on the registrational trial data. The risk-benefit imbalance substantiated by the evidence to date contraindicates further booster injections and suggests that, at a minimum, the mRNA injections should be removed from the childhood immunization program until proper safety and toxicological studies are conducted. Federal agency approval of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines on a blanket-coverage population-wide basis had no support from an honest assessment of all relevant registrational data and commensurate consideration of risks versus benefits. Given the extensive, well-documented SAEs and unacceptably high harm-to-reward ratio, we urge governments to endorse a global moratorium on the modified mRNA products until all relevant questions pertaining to causality, residual DNA, and aberrant protein production are answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nathaniel Mead
- Biology and Nutritional Epidemiology, Independent Research, Copper Hill, USA
| | - Stephanie Seneff
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Russ Wolfinger
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Independent Research, Research Triangle Park, USA
| | - Jessica Rose
- Immunology and Public Health Research, Independent Research, Ottawa, CAN
| | - Kris Denhaerynck
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Independent Research, Basel, CHE
| | - Steve Kirsch
- Data Science, Independent Research, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Peter A McCullough
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, McCullough Foundation, Dallas, USA
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Truth for Health Foundation, Tucson, USA
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Krzemiński P, Misiewicz-Krzemińska I, Grodzik M, Padzińska-Pruszyńska I, Kucharzewska P, Ostrowska A, Sawosz E, Pomorski P. The protective effect of silver nanoparticles' on epithelial cornea cells against ultraviolet is accompanied by changes in calcium homeostasis and a decrease of the P2X7 and P2Y2 receptors. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116090. [PMID: 38169187 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116090] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of silver nanoparticles hydrocolloids (AgNPs) on human corneal epithelial cells. Epithelial cells form the outermost and the most vulnerable to environmental stimuli layer of the cornea in the eye. Mechanical stress, UV radiation, and pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites challenge the fragile homeostasis of the eye. To help combat stress, infection, and inflammation wide portfolio of interventions is available. One of the oldest treatments is colloidal silver. Silver nanoparticle suspension in water is known for its anti-bacterial anti-viral and antiprotozoal action. However, AgNPs interact also with host cells, and the character of the interplay between corneal cells and silver seeks investigation. METHODS The human epithelial corneal cell line (HCE-2) was cultured in vitro, treated with AgNPs, and subjected to UV. The cell's viability, migration, calcium concentration, and expression/protein level of selected proteins were investigated by appropriate methods including cytotoxicity tests, "wound healing" assay, Fluo8/Fura2 AM staining, qRT-PCR, and western blot. RESULTS Incubation of human corneal cells (HCE-2) with AgNP did not affect cells viability but limited cells migration and resulted in altered calcium homeostasis, decreased the presence of ATP-activated P2X7, P2Y2 receptors, and enhanced the expression of PACAP. Furthermore, AgNPs pretreatment helped restrain some of the deleterious effects of UV irradiation. Interestingly, AgNPs had no impact on the protein level of ACE2, which is important in light of potential SARS-CoV-2 entrance through the cornea. CONCLUSIONS Silver nanoparticles are safe for corneal epithelial cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patryk Krzemiński
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Insitute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, bldg. 23, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Irena Misiewicz-Krzemińska
- Plasma Cell Neoplasm Laboratory, Department of Experimental Haematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Chocimska 5, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Grodzik
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Insitute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, bldg. 23, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Irena Padzińska-Pruszyńska
- Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, bldg. 23, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paulina Kucharzewska
- Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, bldg. 23, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Ostrowska
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Insitute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, bldg. 23, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Sawosz
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Insitute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, bldg. 23, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Pomorski
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Cell Motility, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Pasteura 3, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
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Moens U, Passerini S, Falquet M, Sveinbjørnsson B, Pietropaolo V. Phosphorylation of Human Polyomavirus Large and Small T Antigens: An Ignored Research Field. Viruses 2023; 15:2235. [PMID: 38005912 PMCID: PMC10674619 DOI: 10.3390/v15112235] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation are the most common post-translational modifications mediated by protein kinases and protein phosphatases, respectively. These reversible processes can modulate the function of the target protein, such as its activity, subcellular localization, stability, and interaction with other proteins. Phosphorylation of viral proteins plays an important role in the life cycle of a virus. In this review, we highlight biological implications of the phosphorylation of the monkey polyomavirus SV40 large T and small t antigens, summarize our current knowledge of the phosphorylation of these proteins of human polyomaviruses, and conclude with gaps in the knowledge and a proposal for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Moens
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway; (M.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Sara Passerini
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Mar Falquet
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway; (M.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø—The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway; (M.F.); (B.S.)
| | - Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
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Ahmed K, Jha S. Oncoviruses: How do they hijack their host and current treatment regimes. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188960. [PMID: 37507056 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Viruses have the ability to modulate the cellular machinery of their host to ensure their survival. While humans encounter numerous viruses daily, only a select few can lead to disease progression. Some of these viruses can amplify cancer-related traits, particularly when coupled with factors like immunosuppression and co-carcinogens. The global burden of cancer development resulting from viral infections is approximately 12%, and it arises as an unfortunate consequence of persistent infections that cause chronic inflammation, genomic instability from viral genome integration, and dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes and host oncogenes involved in normal cell growth. This review provides an in-depth discussion of oncoviruses and their strategies for hijacking the host's cellular machinery to induce cancer. It delves into how viral oncogenes drive tumorigenesis by targeting key cell signaling pathways. Additionally, the review discusses current therapeutic approaches that have been approved or are undergoing clinical trials to combat malignancies induced by oncoviruses. Understanding the intricate interactions between viruses and host cells can lead to the development of more effective treatments for virus-induced cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kainat Ahmed
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Sudhakar Jha
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
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Fazlalipour M, Ghoreshi ZAS, Molaei HR, Arefinia N. The Role of DNA Viruses in Human Cancer. Cancer Inform 2023; 22:11769351231154186. [PMID: 37363356 PMCID: PMC10286548 DOI: 10.1177/11769351231154186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the possible involvement of infections-associated cancers in humans, with virus infections contributing 15% to 20% of total cancer cases in humans. DNA virus encoded proteins interact with host cellular signaling pathways and control proliferation, cell death and genomic integrity viral oncoproteins are known to bind cellular Deubiquitinates (DUBs) such as cyclindromatosis tumor suppressor, ubiquitin-specific proteases 7, 11, 15 and 20, and A-20 to improve their intracellular stability and cellular signaling pathways and finally transformation. Human papillomaviruses (cervical carcinoma, oral cancer and laryngeal cancer); human polyomaviruses (mesotheliomas, brain tumors); Epstein-Barr virus (B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases and nasopharyngeal carcinoma); Kaposi's Sarcoma Herpesvirus (Kaposi's Sarcoma and primary effusion lymphomas); hepatitis B (hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)) cause up to 20% of malignancies around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Fazlalipour
- WHO Collaborating Center for Reference and Research on Rabies, Pasteur Institute of Iran (IPI), Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran (IPI), Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Reza Molaei
- Department of Medical Bacteriology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nasir Arefinia
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
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Cervellera CF, Mazziotta C, Di Mauro G, Iaquinta MR, Mazzoni E, Torreggiani E, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. Immortalized erythroid cells as a novel frontier for in vitro blood production: current approaches and potential clinical application. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:139. [PMID: 37226267 PMCID: PMC10210309 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03367-8] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood transfusions represent common medical procedures, which provide essential supportive therapy. However, these procedures are notoriously expensive for healthcare services and not without risk. The potential threat of transfusion-related complications, such as the development of pathogenic infections and the occurring of alloimmunization events, alongside the donor's dependence, strongly limits the availability of transfusion units and represents significant concerns in transfusion medicine. Moreover, a further increase in the demand for donated blood and blood transfusion, combined with a reduction in blood donors, is expected as a consequence of the decrease in birth rates and increase in life expectancy in industrialized countries. MAIN BODY An emerging and alternative strategy preferred over blood transfusion is the in vitro production of blood cells from immortalized erythroid cells. The high survival capacity alongside the stable and longest proliferation time of immortalized erythroid cells could allow the generation of a large number of cells over time, which are able to differentiate into blood cells. However, a large-scale, cost-effective production of blood cells is not yet a routine clinical procedure, as being dependent on the optimization of culture conditions of immortalized erythroid cells. CONCLUSION In our review, we provide an overview of the most recent erythroid cell immortalization approaches, while also describing and discussing related advancements of establishing immortalized erythroid cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Felice Cervellera
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Mauro
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Iaquinta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences-DOCPAS, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Torreggiani
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences-DOCPAS, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Department of Medical Sciences, Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Di Mauro G, Frontini F, Torreggiani E, Iaquinta MR, Caselli A, Mazziotta C, Esposito V, Mazzoni E, Libener R, Grosso F, Maconi A, Martini F, Bononi I, Tognon M. Epigenetic investigation into circulating microRNA 197-3p in sera from patients affected by malignant pleural mesothelioma and workers ex-exposed to asbestos. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6501. [PMID: 37081052 PMCID: PMC10119131 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33116-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic role of microRNAs is established at both physiological and pathological levels. Dysregulated miRNAs and their targets appear to be a promising approach for innovative anticancer therapies. In our previous study, circulating miR-197-3p tested dysregulated in workers ex-exposed to asbestos (WEA). Herein, an epigenetic investigation on this circulating miRNA was carried out in sera from malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) patients. MiR-197-3p was quantified in MPM (n = 75) sera and comparatively analyzed to WEA (n = 75) and healthy subject (n = 75) sera, using ddPCR and RT-qPCR techniques. Clinicopathological characteristics, occupational, non-occupational information and overall survival (OS) were evaluated in correlation studies. MiR-197-3p levels, analyzed by ddPCR, were significantly higher in MPM than in WEA cohort, with a mean copies/µl of 981.7 and 525.01, respectively. Consistently, RT-qPCR showed higher miR-197-3p levels in sera from MPM with a mean copies/µl of 603.7, compared to WEA with 336.1 copies/µl. OS data were significantly associated with histologic subtype and pleurectomy. Circulating miR-197-3p is proposed as a new potential biomarker for an early diagnosis of the MPM onset. Indeed, miR-197-3p epigenetic investigations along with chest X-ray, computed tomography scan and spirometry could provide relevant information useful to reach an early and effective diagnosis for MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Di Mauro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Frontini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Torreggiani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Iaquinta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Caselli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Esposito
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences-DOCPAS, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Libener
- Research Training and Innovation Infrastructure - Department of Integrated Research and Innovation Activities (DAIRI), AO SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15121, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Federica Grosso
- Mesothelioma Unit, AO SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15121, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Antonio Maconi
- Research Training and Innovation Infrastructure - Department of Integrated Research and Innovation Activities (DAIRI), AO SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15121, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, 70, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Khatpe AS, Dirks R, Bhat-Nakshatri P, Mang H, Batic K, Swiezy S, Olson J, Rao X, Wang Y, Tanaka H, Liu S, Wan J, Chen D, Liu Y, Fang F, Althouse S, Hulsey E, Granatir MM, Addison R, Temm CJ, Sandusky G, Lee-Gosselin A, Nephew K, Miller KD, Nakshatri H. TONSL Is an Immortalizing Oncogene and a Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2023; 83:1345-1360. [PMID: 37057595 PMCID: PMC10107402 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Study of genomic aberrations leading to immortalization of epithelial cells has been technically challenging due to the lack of isogenic models. To address this, we used healthy primary breast luminal epithelial cells of different genetic ancestry and their hTERT-immortalized counterparts to identify transcriptomic changes associated with immortalization. Elevated expression of TONSL (Tonsoku-like, DNA repair protein) was identified as one of the earliest events during immortalization. TONSL, which is located on chromosome 8q24.3, was found to be amplified in approximately 20% of breast cancers. TONSL alone immortalized primary breast epithelial cells and increased telomerase activity, but overexpression was insufficient for neoplastic transformation. However, TONSL-immortalized primary cells overexpressing defined oncogenes generated estrogen receptor-positive adenocarcinomas in mice. Analysis of a breast tumor microarray with approximately 600 tumors revealed poor overall and progression-free survival of patients with TONSL-overexpressing tumors. TONSL increased chromatin accessibility to pro-oncogenic transcription factors, including NF-κB and limited access to the tumor-suppressor p53. TONSL overexpression resulted in significant changes in the expression of genes associated with DNA repair hubs, including upregulation of several genes in the homologous recombination (HR) and Fanconi anemia pathways. Consistent with these results, TONSL-overexpressing primary cells exhibited upregulated DNA repair via HR. Moreover, TONSL was essential for growth of TONSL-amplified breast cancer cell lines in vivo, and these cells were sensitive to TONSL-FACT complex inhibitor CBL0137. Together, these findings identify TONSL as a regulator of epithelial cell immortalization to facilitate cancer initiation and as a target for breast cancer therapy. SIGNIFICANCE The chr.8q24.3 amplicon-resident gene TONSL is upregulated during the initial steps of tumorigenesis to support neoplastic transformation by increasing DNA repair and represents a potential therapeutic target for treating breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi S Khatpe
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Rebecca Dirks
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | | | - Henry Mang
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Katie Batic
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Sarah Swiezy
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jacob Olson
- Decatur Central High School, Indianapolis, IN 46221, USA
| | - Xi Rao
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Hiromi Tanaka
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Sheng Liu
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Jun Wan
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Duojiao Chen
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yunlong Liu
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Fang Fang
- Medical Science Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Sandra Althouse
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Emily Hulsey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Maggie M Granatir
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Rebekah Addison
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Constance J. Temm
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - George Sandusky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Audrey Lee-Gosselin
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kenneth Nephew
- Medical Science Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Kathy D. Miller
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Harikrishna Nakshatri
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN 46202, USA
- VA Roudebush Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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12
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Donà MG, Gheit T, Chiantore MV, Vescio MF, Luzi F, Rollo F, Accardi L, Cota C, Galati L, Romeo G, Giuliani M, Tommasino M, Di Bonito P. Prevalence of 13 polyomaviruses in actinic keratosis and matched healthy skin samples of immunocompetent individuals. Infect Agent Cancer 2022; 17:59. [PMID: 36457033 PMCID: PMC9714215 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-022-00472-w] [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: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precursor of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). UV radiation is the major risk factor for AK, but certain human papillomaviruses (HPVs) of the beta genus are also involved in its development. Differently, the role of polyomaviruses (PyVs) in skin carcinogenesis is still debated. Fiftheen PyVs have been isolated from human tissues so far, including Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), the aetiological agent of Merkel cell carcinoma. METHODS The presence of 13 PyVs was assessed in skin samples from AK patients (n = 342). Matched fresh-frozen scrapings from healthy skin (HS) and AK lesions from 242 patients, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded AK biopsies from a different cohort of 100 patients were analyzed by multiplex PyVs genotyping assay. RESULTS The most frequent lesion site was the scalp in men (27.3%), and the cheek area in women (29.0%). Differences between men and women were significant for the scalp, the cheek area and the lips. Almost all the scrapings were PyV-positive (HS: 89.7%, AK: 94.6%; p = 0.04). The three most frequent PyVs were MCPyV, HPyV6 and JCPyV (HS: 87.2%, 58.7%, 6.6%, respectively; AK: 88.8%, 51.2%, 9.9%, respectively). HPyV9, TSPyV, BKPyV, HPyV7, LIPyV and SV40 were detected in < 2% of the scrapings. In most cases, matched HS and AK scrapings were both positive (MCPyV: 78.1%, HPyV6: 41.7%), or both negative for the individual genotypes (for the remaining PyVs). PyV prevalence in AK biopsies was 22.0%. Only MCPyV (21.0%) and HPyV6 (3.0%) were detected in these samples. CONCLUSIONS PyV prevalence in HS and AK scrapings was high, but detection of PyVs exclusively in AK scrapings was rare. PyV positivity rate in AK biopsies was modest. Further research is need to reach firm conclusions regarding the role of these viruses in AK development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tarik Gheit
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization, Lyon, France
| | | | - Maria Fenicia Vescio
- Epidemiology Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiola Luzi
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, San Gallicano Dermatologic Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Rollo
- Pathology Department, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Accardi
- EVOR Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Cota
- Department of Dermopathology, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Galati
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization, Lyon, France
| | - Giovanna Romeo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome-Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
| | - Massimo Giuliani
- STI/HIV Unit, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Paola Di Bonito
- EVOR Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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13
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Kiasari BA, Fallah FH, Koohi MK, Duarte PM, Tazerji SS, Fawzy M. Simian virus 40 DNA in immunocompetent children with respiratory disease. J Med Virol 2022; 94:5507-5511. [PMID: 35790406 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27973] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Evidence of Simian virus 40 (SV40) DNA sequences or gene products has been reported in a variety of organ systems in humans. However, the route of transmission and the significance of SV40 polyomavirus infection in human are unknown. The aim of study was to characterize the frequency of SV40 infection in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients with respiratory diseases. Respiratory specimens from patients with respiratory tract illness obtained from nasopharyngeal aspirates (n = 280) were screened for SV40 polyomavirus using real-time PCR; coinfection with other viruses was examined. Positive results were confirmed with sequencing. Of the 280 samples analysed, 2 (0.71%) were positive for SV40. SV40 was identified in nasopharyngeal aspirate samples from children aged 8 and 14 months who were immunocompetent. Both patients had upper or lower respiratory tract infection. Coinfections with other viruses were found in 50% of the SV40 positive samples. The data suggest that SV40 can infect respiratory tract, that respiratory tract may represent a route of transmission or a site for virus persistence, and that with the high rate of co-infection, SV40 may not involved in respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahman Abedi Kiasari
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Hoda Fallah
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Children's Medical Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazem Koohi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Phelipe Magalhães Duarte
- University of Cuiabá Primavera do Leste - Mato Grosso - Brazil Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociência Animal (PPGBA) - UFRPE Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Sina Salajegheh Tazerji
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Specialized Veterinary Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Clinical Science, Young Researchers and Elites Club, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamed Fawzy
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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14
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Wang Z, Wang S, Jia Z, Zhao Y, Yang M, Yan W, Chen T, Xiang D, Shao R, Liu Y. Establishment and characterization of an immortalized epithelial cell line from human gallbladder. Front Oncol 2022; 12:994087. [PMID: 36387215 PMCID: PMC9650220 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.994087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although a plethora of studies have employed multiple gallbladder cancer (GBC) cell lines, it is surprisingly noted that there is still lack of a normal gallbladder epithelial cell line as a normal counterpart, thus impeding substantially the progress of mechanistic studies on the transformation of normal epithelial cells to cancer. Here, we created a normal gallbladder epithelial cell line named L-2F7 from human gallbladder tissue. Methods Gallbladder tissues from a diagnosed cholecystitis female patient were collected, and epithelial cells were enriched by magnetic cell sorting. Then, the cells were immortalized by co-introduction of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and Simian virus 40 large T antigen (LT-SV40) via a lentivirus infection system. After clonal selection and isolation, L-2F7 cells were tested for epithelial markers CK7, CK19, CK20, and CD326, genomic feature, cell proliferation, and migration using Western blot, immunofluorescence, whole genome sequencing, karyotyping, and RNA sequencing. L-2F7 cells were also transplanted to Nude (nu/nu) mice to determine tumorigenicity. Results We successfully identified one single-cell clone named L-2F7 which highly expressed epithelial markers CD326, CK7, CK19, and CK20. This cell line proliferated with a doubling time of 23 h and the epithelial morphology sustained over 30 passages following immortalization. Transient gene transduction of L-2F7 cells led to expression of exogenous GFP and FLAG protein. L-2F7 cells exhibited both distinct non-synonymous mutations from those of gallbladder cancer tissues and differential non-cancerous gene expression patterns similar to normal tissue. Although they displayed unexpected mobility, L-2F7 cells still lacked the ability to develop tumors. Conclusion We developed a non-cancerous gallbladder epithelial cell line, offering a valuable system for the study of gallbladder cancer and other gallbladder-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Wang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Shijia Wang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziheng Jia
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhao Zhao
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Mao Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Weikang Yan
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongxi Xiang
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Dongxi Xiang, ; Rong Shao, ; Yingbin Liu,
| | - Rong Shao
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Dongxi Xiang, ; Rong Shao, ; Yingbin Liu,
| | - Yingbin Liu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Cancer Institute, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Research Center of Biliary Tract Disease, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Dongxi Xiang, ; Rong Shao, ; Yingbin Liu,
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15
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Viral Agents as Potential Drivers of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Tumorigenesis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14102105. [DOI: 10.3390/v14102105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Among numerous causative agents recognized as oncogenic drivers, 13% of total cancer cases occur as a result of viral infections. The intricacy and diversity of carcinogenic processes, however, raise significant concerns about the mechanistic function of viruses in cancer. All tumor-associated viruses have been shown to encode viral oncogenes with a potential for cell transformation and the development of malignancies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Given the difficulties in identifying single mechanistic explanations, it is necessary to combine ideas from systems biology and viral evolution to comprehend the processes driving viral cancer. The potential for more efficient and acceptable therapies lies in targeted medicines that aim at viral proteins or trigger immune responses to either avoid infection or eliminate infected or cancerous cells. In this review, we aim to describe the role of viral infections and their mechanistic approaches in DLBCL tumorigenesis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review summarizing the oncogenic potential of numerous viral agents in DLBCL development.
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16
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Synchronous/Metachronous Multiple Primary Malignancies: Review of Associated Risk Factors. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081940. [PMID: 36010291 PMCID: PMC9406460 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of secondary primary malignancy (SPM) has been reported to range from 1.33% to 5.8%, according to the location of the primary cancer and the follow-up duration. The highest occurrence rate of SPM, of 36.6% within 6 months, has been reported in lung cancer. Genitourinary malignancies were reported to be the third-most-common SPM in several reports. However, the incidence of genitourinary malignancy as the first primary cancer associated with SPM has not been reported. Several risk factors are related to the occurrence of SPM, including viral infection chemotherapy, radiation, genetics, smoking, betel quid chewing, and environmental factors. An early survey for SPM is indicated in first primary malignancy patients with these associated factors. In this study, we summarize several risk factors related to the occurrence of SPMs and preventive tests, which may help in their early detection and, consequently, better survival.
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17
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Mazzoni E, Bononi I, Rotondo JC, Mazziotta C, Libener R, Guaschino R, Gafà R, Lanza G, Martini F, Tognon M. Sera from Patients with Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Tested Positive for IgG Antibodies against SV40 Large T Antigen: The Viral Oncoprotein. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:7249912. [PMID: 35874636 PMCID: PMC9307391 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7249912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), a fatal tumor, is mainly linked to the asbestos exposure. It has been reported that together with the inhalation of asbestos fibers, other factors are involved in the MPM onset, including simian virus 40 (SV40). SV40, a polyomavirus with oncogenic potential, induces (i) in vitro the mesenchymal cell transformation, whereas (ii) in vivo the MPM onset in experimental animals. The association between MPM and SV40 in humans remains to be elucidated. Sera (n = 415) from MPM-affected patients (MPM cohort 1; n = 152) and healthy subjects (HSs, n = 263) were investigated for their immunoglobulin G (IgG) against simian virus 40 large tumor antigen (Tag), which is the transforming protein. Sera were investigated with an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using two synthetic peptides from SV40 Tag protein. SV40 Tag protein was evaluated by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining on MPM samples (MPM cohort 2; n = 20). Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples were obtained from MPM patients unrelated to MPM serum donors. The proportion of sera, from MPM patients, showing antibodies against SV40 Tag (34%) was significantly higher compared to HSs (20%) (odds ratio 2.049, CI 95% 1.32-3.224; p=0.0026). Immunohistochemical staining (IHS) assays showed SV40 Tag expression in 8/20, 40% of MPM specimens. These results indicate that SV40 is linked to a large fraction of MPM. It is worth noting that the prevalence of SV40 Tag antibodies detected in sera from cohort 1 of MPM patients is similar to the prevalence of SV40 Tag found to be expressed in FFPE tissues from MPM cohort 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences—DOCPAS, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Roberta Libener
- Mesothelioma BioBank, Pathology Unit, City Hospital, Alessandria, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Gafà
- Section of Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lanza
- Section of Pathology, Department of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara 44121, Italy
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18
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Rotondo JC, Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Stefani C, Badiale G, Campione G, Martini F, Tognon M. The Role of Purinergic P2X7 Receptor in Inflammation and Cancer: Novel Molecular Insights and Clinical Applications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1116. [PMID: 35267424 PMCID: PMC8909580 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is a transmembrane protein whose expression has been related to a variety of cellular processes, while its dysregulation has been linked to inflammation and cancer. P2X7R is expressed in cancer and immune system cell surfaces. ATP plays a key role in numerous metabolic processes due to its abundance in the tumour microenvironment. P2X7R plays an important role in cancer by interacting with ATP. The unusual property of P2X7R is that stimulation with low doses of ATP causes the opening of a permeable channel for sodium, potassium, and calcium ions, whereas sustained stimulation with high doses of ATP favours the formation of a non-selective pore. The latter effect induces a change in intracellular homeostasis that leads to cell death. This evidence suggests that P2X7R has both pro- and anti-tumour proprieties. P2X7R is increasingly recognised as a regulator of inflammation. In this review, we aimed to describe the most relevant characteristics of P2X7R function, activation, and its ligands, while also summarising the role of P2X7R activation in the context of inflammation and cancer. The currently used therapeutic approaches and clinical trials of P2X7R modulators are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Stefani
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Giada Badiale
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Giulia Campione
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
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19
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Bone Regeneration and Oxidative Stress: An Updated Overview. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020318. [PMID: 35204201 PMCID: PMC8868092 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone tissue engineering is a complex domain that requires further investigation and benefits from data obtained over past decades. The models are increasing in complexity as they reveal new data from co-culturing and microfluidics applications. The in vitro models now focus on the 3D medium co-culturing of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes utilizing collagen for separation; this type of research allows for controlled medium and in-depth data analysis. Oxidative stress takes a toll on the domain, being beneficial as well as destructive. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are molecules that influence the differentiation of osteoclasts, but over time their increasing presence can affect patients and aid the appearance of diseases such as osteoporosis. Oxidative stress can be limited by using antioxidants such as vitamin K and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Scaffolds and biocompatible coatings such as hydroxyapatite and bioactive glass are required to isolate the implant, protect the zone from the metallic, ionic exchange, and enhance the bone regeneration by mimicking the composition and structure of the body, thus enhancing cell proliferation. The materials can be further functionalized with growth factors that create a better response and higher chances of success for clinical use. This review highlights the vast majority of newly obtained information regarding bone tissue engineering, such as new co-culturing models, implant coatings, scaffolds, biomolecules, and the techniques utilized to obtain them.
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20
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Arsene DE, Milanesi E, Dobre M. Viral oncogenesis in tumours of the central nervous system: reality or random association? A retrospective study on archived material. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:1413-1420. [PMID: 35112466 PMCID: PMC8899179 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) tumours have devastating effects and are recurrent, with dismal prognosis (gliomas) or life‐threatening by the compression effect (meningiomas). This disease's aetiology remains debatable. Over the last decade, the hypothesis that human viruses may be implicated in these tumours has been proposed. In this study, our aim is to examine the presence of 11 viruses in the most frequent CNS primary tumours. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), we assessed the viral presence in archived, paraffin‐embedded tumour tissues from 114 patients with glioma and meningioma and in the brain tissue from 40 controls lacking tumour pathology. We focused on candidate neuro‐oncogenic types (herpesviridae and polyomaviruses) and on human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV presence, for which involvement in these tumours was hardly investigated, was found to be associated with both tumour categories compared with controls (glioma, p = 0.032; meningioma, p = 0.032), whereas the presence of the neuro‐oncogenic viruses was found in a negligible number of both categories, suggesting a lack of association with the tumour presence. Moreover, our study reveals a positive correlation between HPV presence and glioma malignancy, and a negative correlation with meningioma grading. Our results suggest that the presence of HPV seems to be significantly associated with primary tumours of the CNS and its meninges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorel Eugen Arsene
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Milanesi
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Dobre
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
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21
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Mazziotta C, Rotondo JC, Lanzillotti C, Campione G, Martini F, Tognon M. Cancer biology and molecular genetics of A 3 adenosine receptor. Oncogene 2022; 41:301-308. [PMID: 34750517 PMCID: PMC8755539 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02090-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) is a cell membrane protein, which has been found to be overexpressed in a large number of cancer types. This receptor plays an important role in cancer by interacting with adenosine. Specifically, A3AR has a dual nature in different pathophysiological conditions, as it is expressed according to tissue type and stimulated by an adenosine dose-dependent manner. A3AR activation leads to tumor growth, cell proliferation and survival in some cases, while triggering cytostatic and apoptotic pathways in others. This review aims to describe the most relevant aspects of A3AR activation and its ligands whereas it summarizes A3AR activities in cancer. Progress in the field of A3AR modulators, with a potential therapeutic role in cancer treatment are reported, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine-Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine-Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine-Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Campione
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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22
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Circulating microRNA-197-3p as a potential biomarker for asbestos exposure. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23955. [PMID: 34907223 PMCID: PMC8671556 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03189-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Asbestos is considered the main cause of diseases in workers exposed to this mineral in the workplace as well as an environmental pollutant. The association between asbestos and the onset of different diseases has been reported, but asbestos exposure specific biomarkers are not known. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, single-strand, non-coding RNAs, with potential value as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive markers in liquid biopsies. Sera collected from workers ex-exposed to asbestos (WEA) fibers were compared with sera from healthy subjects (HS) of similar age, as liquid biopsies. The expression of the circulating miRNA 197-3p was investigated employing two different highly analytical PCR methods, i.e. RT-qPCR and ddPCR. MiR-197-3p levels were tested in sera from WEA compared to HS. MiR-197-3p tested dysregulated in sera from WEA (n = 75) compared to HS (n = 62). Indeed, miR-197-3p was found to be 2.6 times down-regulated in WEA vs. HS (p = 0.0001***). In addition, an inverse correlation was detected between miR-197-3p expression level and cumulative asbestos exposure, being this miRNA down-regulated 2.1 times in WEA, with high cumulative asbestos exposure, compared to WEA with low exposure (p = 0.0303*). Circulating miR-197-3p, found to be down regulated in sera from WEA, is proposed as a new potential biomarker of asbestos exposure.
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23
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Wang M, Zhao L, Wen Y, Wu Y, Li Y. Label-Free Fluorescent Determination of Simian Virus 40 Using Triplex DNA and G-Quadruplex/N-Methyl Mesoporphyrin IX. ANAL LETT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00032719.2021.1907394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Minting Wang
- Faculty of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Liting Zhao
- Faculty of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yanmei Wen
- Faculty of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yulian Wu
- Faculty of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yubin Li
- Faculty of Chemistry & Environmental Science, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
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24
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Culurciello R, Bosso A, Di Fabio G, Zarrelli A, Arciello A, Carella F, Leonardi L, Pazzaglia L, De Vico G, Pizzo E. Cytotoxicity of an Innovative Pressurised Cyclic Solid-Liquid (PCSL) Extract from Artemisia annua. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:886. [PMID: 34941723 PMCID: PMC8706793 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13120886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic treatments with Artemisia annua have a long-established tradition in various diseases due to its antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-malaria and anti-cancer effects. However, in relation to the latter, virtually all reports focused on toxic effects of A. annua extracts were obtained mostly through conventional maceration methods. In the present study, an innovative extraction procedure from A. annua, based on pressurised cyclic solid-liquid (PCSL) extraction, resulted in the production of a new phytocomplex with enhanced anti-cancer properties. This extraction procedure generated a pressure gradient due to compressions and following decompressions, allowing to directly perform the extraction without any maceration. The toxic effects of A. annua PCSL extract were tested on different cells, including three cancer cell lines. The results of this study clearly indicate that the exposure of human, murine and canine cancer cells to serial dilutions of PCSL extract resulted in higher toxicity and stronger propensity to induce apoptosis than that detected by subjecting the same cells to Artemisia extracts obtained through canonical extraction by maceration. Collected data suggest that PCSL extract of A. annua could be a promising and economic new therapeutic tool to treat human and animal tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Culurciello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.C.); (A.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Andrea Bosso
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.C.); (A.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Giovanni Di Fabio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.D.F.); (A.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Armando Zarrelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.D.F.); (A.Z.); (A.A.)
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT CENTER), University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Arciello
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.D.F.); (A.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Francesca Carella
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.C.); (A.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Leonardo Leonardi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine—Veterinary Pathology, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Laura Pazzaglia
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Gionata De Vico
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.C.); (A.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Elio Pizzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.C.); (A.B.); (F.C.)
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25
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Govoni M, Pellielo G, Mazzoni E, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. Decreased IgG Antibody Response to Viral Protein Mimotopes of Oncogenic Merkel Cell Polyomavirus in Sera From Healthy Elderly Subjects. Front Immunol 2021; 12:738486. [PMID: 34733278 PMCID: PMC8558529 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.738486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the main causative agent of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive skin tumor with a typical presentation age >60 years. MCPyV is ubiquitous in humans. After an early-age primary infection, MCPyV establishes a clinically asymptomatic lifelong infection. In immunocompromised patients/individuals, including elders, MCC can arise following an increase in MCPyV replication events. Elders are prone to develop immunesenescence and therefore represent an important group to investigate. In addition, detailed information on MCPyV serology in elders has been debated. These findings cumulatively indicate the need for new research verifying the impact of MCPyV infection in elderly subjects (ES). Herein, sera from 226 ES, aged 66-100 years, were analyzed for anti-MCPyV IgGs with an indirect ELISA using peptides mimicking epitopes from the MCPyV capsid proteins VP1-2. Immunological data from sera belonging to a cohort of healthy subjects (HS) (n = 548) aged 18-65 years, reported in our previous study, were also included for comparisons. Age-/gender-specific seroprevalence and serological profiles were investigated. MCPyV seroprevalence in ES was 63.7% (144/226). Age-specific MCPyV seroprevalence resulted as 62.5% (25/40), 71.7% (33/46), 64.9% (37/57), 63.8% (30/47), and 52.8% (19/36) in ES aged 66-70, 71-75, 76-80, 81-85, and 86-100 years, respectively (p > 0.05). MCPyV seroprevalence was 67% (71/106) and 61% (73/120) in ES males and females, respectively (p > 0.05). Lack of age-/gender-related variations in terms of MCPyV serological profiles was found in ES (p > 0.05). Notably, serological profile analyses indicated lower optical densities (ODs) in ES compared with HS (p < 0.05), while lower ODs were also determined in ES males compared with HS males (p < 0.05). Our data cumulatively suggest that oncogenic MCPyV circulates in elders asymptomatically at a relatively high prevalence, while immunesenescence might be responsible for a decreased IgG antibody response to MCPyV, thereby potentially leading to an increase in MCPyV replication levels. In the worse scenario, alongside other factors, MCPyV might drive MCC carcinogenesis, as described in elders with over 60 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marcello Govoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Pellielo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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26
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Vincenzi F, Rotondo JC, Pasquini S, Di Virgilio F, Varani K, Tognon M. A 3 Adenosine and P2X7 Purinergic Receptors as New Targets for an Innovative Pharmacological Therapy of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:679285. [PMID: 34660262 PMCID: PMC8518529 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.679285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Human malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, but aggressive tumor of the serosal cavities whose 5-year survival rate is 15%. At present, there are no effective therapies for MPM. Although recent findings suggest that A3 adenosine (A3AR) and P2X7 (P2X7R) receptors can be employed as antitumoral pharmacological targets in MPM, their potential role in a combined therapy is currently unknown. The A3AR agonist Cl-IB-MECA and the P2X7 receptor antagonist AZ10606120, as a single compound or in combination, were investigated in vitro for their anti-tumor activities. Assays were carried out in MPM cell lines IST-Mes2 and MPP89 and in primary human normal mesothelial cells (HMCs), as control. Single treatment with Cl-IB-MECA reduced cell proliferation and favored a pro-apoptotic effect in both MPP89 and IST-Mes2 cell lines, whereas AZ10606120 inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in IST-Mes2, only. The combined treatment with Cl-IB-MECA and AZ10606120 reduced cell proliferation and favored apoptosis in MPP89 and IST-Mes2 cell lines, whereas no synergistic effect was detected. These data cumulatively suggest the absence of a synergistic effect in combined targeting of A3 adenosine and P2X7 receptors of MPM cell lines. This study may stimulate further investigations aimed at determining new combinations of antitumor compounds and more effective therapeutic strategies against MPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Experimental Medicine Section, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Virgilio
- Department of Medical Sciences, Experimental Medicine Section, Pathology Unit, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Experimental Medicine Section, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Rotondo JC, Martini F, Maritati M, Mazziotta C, Di Mauro G, Lanzillotti C, Barp N, Gallerani A, Tognon M, Contini C. SARS-CoV-2 Infection: New Molecular, Phylogenetic, and Pathogenetic Insights. Efficacy of Current Vaccines and the Potential Risk of Variants. Viruses 2021; 13:1687. [PMID: 34578269 PMCID: PMC8473168 DOI: 10.3390/v13091687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a newly discovered coronavirus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. COVID-19 has rapidly become a public health emergency of international concern. Although remarkable scientific achievements have been reached since the beginning of the pandemic, the knowledge behind this novel coronavirus, in terms of molecular and pathogenic characteristics and zoonotic potential, is still relatively limited. Today, there is a vaccine, or rather several vaccines, which, for the first time in the history of highly contagious infectious diseases that have plagued mankind, has been manufactured in just one year. Currently, four vaccines are licensed by regulatory agencies, and they use RNA or viral vector technologies. The positive effects of the vaccination campaign are being felt in many parts of the world, but the disappearance of this new infection is still far from being a reality, as it is also threatened by the presence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants that could undermine the effectiveness of the vaccine, hampering the immunization control efforts. Indeed, the current findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 is adapting to transmission in humans more efficiently, while further divergence from the initial archetype should be considered. In this review, we aimed to provide a collection of the current knowledge regarding the molecular, phylogenetic, and pathogenetic insights into SARS-CoV-2. The most recent findings obtained with respect to the impact of novel emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants as well as the development and implementation of vaccines are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Mauro
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicole Barp
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Altea Gallerani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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28
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Liu Y, Guo X, Zhan L, Wang L, Wang X, Jiang M. LAG3 and PD1 Regulate CD8+ T Cell in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Patients. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2021; 2021:4468140. [PMID: 34422089 PMCID: PMC8378962 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4468140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous lymphoid malignancy. The unsatisfactory outcome for refractory patients has prompted efforts to explore new therapeutic approaches for DLBCL. However, the mechanisms involved in treatment associated with immune checkpoints remain unclear. This study is aimed at investigating the potential roles of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) and lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) in CD8+ T cells for treatment in DLBCL. METHODS Utilizing flow cytometry, we examined the content of T cells, the levels of cytokines, and the expression of PD1 and LAG3 in patients with DLBCL as well as in healthy controls. Levels of cytokines in CD8+ T cells from DLBCL patients before and after treatment were compared by blocking of PD1 and LAG3 in magnetic bead-sorted CD8+ T cells. RESULTS We found that the proportion of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells was increased in DLBCL patients after treatment. The levels of cytokines trended toward those of healthy controls in treatment. PD1 (+), LAG3 (+), or PD1 (+) LAG3 (+) were all expressed in lower amounts in CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells after treatment than in untreated DLBCL patients. In addition, blockade of PD1 and LAG3 in sorted CD8+ T cells markedly inhibited cytokine production in response to treatment. CONCLUSION PD1 and LAG3 in CD8+ T cells may be important targets of therapy and play therapeutic role in patients with DLBCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang, China
- Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Urumqi, 830061 Xinjiang, China
| | - Xinhong Guo
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang, China
- Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Urumqi, 830061 Xinjiang, China
| | - Lingbo Zhan
- Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000 Xinjiang, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang, China
- Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Urumqi, 830061 Xinjiang, China
| | - Xinyou Wang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang, China
- Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Urumqi, 830061 Xinjiang, China
| | - Ming Jiang
- Hematologic Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830054 Xinjiang, China
- Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Research Institute of Hematology, Urumqi, 830061 Xinjiang, China
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Torreggiani E, Oton-Gonzalez L, Iaquinta MR, Mazzoni E, Gaboriaud P, Touzé A, Silvagni E, Govoni M, Martini F, Tognon M, Rotondo JC. Serum Antibodies Against the Oncogenic Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Detected by an Innovative Immunological Assay With Mimotopes in Healthy Subjects. Front Immunol 2021; 12:676627. [PMID: 34168646 PMCID: PMC8217635 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.676627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a small DNA tumor virus, has been detected in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and in normal tissues. Since MCPyV infection occurs in both MCC-affected patients and healthy subjects (HS), innovative immunoassays for detecting antibodies (abs) against MCPyV are required. Herein, sera from HS were analyzed with a novel indirect ELISA using two synthetic peptides mimicking MCPyV capsid protein epitopes of VP1 and VP2. Synthetic peptides were designed to recognize IgGs against MCPyV VP mimotopes using a computer-assisted approach. The assay was set up evaluating its performance in detecting IgGs anti-MCPyV on MCPyV-positive (n=65) and -negative (n=67) control sera. Then, the ELISA was extended to sera (n=548) from HS aged 18-65 yrs old. Age-specific MCPyV-seroprevalence was investigated. Performance evaluation indicated that the assay showed 80% sensitivity, 91% specificity and 83.9% accuracy, with positive and negative predictive values of 94.3% and 71%, respectively. The ratio expected/obtained data agreement was 86%, with a Cohen's kappa of 0.72. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis indicated that the areas under the curves (AUCs) for the two peptides were 0.82 and 0.74, respectively. Intra-/inter-run variations were below 9%. The overall prevalence of serum IgGs anti-MCPyV in HS was 62.9% (345/548). Age-specific MCPyV-seroprevalence was 63.1% (82/130), 56.7% (68/120), 64.5% (91/141), and 66.2% (104/157) in HS aged 18-30, 31-40, 41-50 and 51-65 yrs old, respectively (p>0.05). Performance evaluation suggests that our indirect ELISA is reliable in detecting IgGs anti-MCPyV. Our immunological data indicate that MCPyV infection occurs asymptomatically, at a relatively high prevalence, in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Elena Torreggiani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pauline Gaboriaud
- ISP “Biologie des infections à polyomavirus” Team, UMR INRA 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Antoine Touzé
- ISP “Biologie des infections à polyomavirus” Team, UMR INRA 1282, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Ettore Silvagni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marcello Govoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Hushcha Y, Blo I, Oton-Gonzalez L, Mauro GD, Martini F, Tognon M, Mattei MD. microRNAs in the Regulation of Melanogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116104. [PMID: 34198907 PMCID: PMC8201055 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanogenesis is the process leading to the synthesis of melanin, the main substance that influences skin color and plays a pivotal role against UV damage. Altered melanogenesis is observed in several pigmentation disorders. Melanogenesis occurs in specialized cells called melanocytes, physically and functionally related by means of autocrine and paracrine interplay to other skin cell types. Several external and internal factors control melanin biosynthesis and operate through different intracellular signaling pathways, which finally leads to the regulation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), the key transcription factor involved in melanogenesis and the expression of the main melanogenic enzymes, including TYR, TYRP-1, and TYRP-2. Epigenetic factors, including microRNAs (miRNAs), are involved in melanogenesis regulation. miRNAs are small, single-stranded, non-coding RNAs, of approximately 22 nucleotides in length, which control cell behavior by regulating gene expression, mainly by binding the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) of target mRNAs. This review collects data on the miRNAs involved in melanogenesis and how these miRNAs can modulate target gene expression. Bringing to light the biological function of miRNAs could lead to a wider understanding of epigenetic melanogenesis regulation and its dysregulation. This knowledge may constitute the basis for developing innovative treatment approaches for pigmentation dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene Blo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.B.); (L.O.-G.); (G.D.M.); (F.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Lucia Oton-Gonzalez
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.B.); (L.O.-G.); (G.D.M.); (F.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Giulia Di Mauro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.B.); (L.O.-G.); (G.D.M.); (F.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.B.); (L.O.-G.); (G.D.M.); (F.M.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.B.); (L.O.-G.); (G.D.M.); (F.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (I.B.); (L.O.-G.); (G.D.M.); (F.M.); (M.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-455534
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31
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Burzyńska P, Sobala ŁF, Mikołajczyk K, Jodłowska M, Jaśkiewicz E. Sialic Acids as Receptors for Pathogens. Biomolecules 2021; 11:831. [PMID: 34199560 PMCID: PMC8227644 DOI: 10.3390/biom11060831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbohydrates have long been known to mediate intracellular interactions, whether within one organism or between different organisms. Sialic acids (Sias) are carbohydrates that usually occupy the terminal positions in longer carbohydrate chains, which makes them common recognition targets mediating these interactions. In this review, we summarize the knowledge about animal disease-causing agents such as viruses, bacteria and protozoa (including the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum) in which Sias play a role in infection biology. While Sias may promote binding of, e.g., influenza viruses and SV40, they act as decoys for betacoronaviruses. The presence of two common forms of Sias, Neu5Ac and Neu5Gc, is species-specific, and in humans, the enzyme converting Neu5Ac to Neu5Gc (CMAH, CMP-Neu5Ac hydroxylase) is lost, most likely due to adaptation to pathogen regimes; we discuss the research about the influence of malaria on this trait. In addition, we present data suggesting the CMAH gene was probably present in the ancestor of animals, shedding light on its glycobiology. We predict that a better understanding of the role of Sias in disease vectors would lead to more effective clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ewa Jaśkiewicz
- Laboratory of Glycobiology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, R. Weigla 12, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.B.); (Ł.F.S.); (K.M.); (M.J.)
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Iaquinta MR, Lanzillotti C, Mazziotta C, Bononi I, Frontini F, Mazzoni E, Oton-Gonzalez L, Rotondo JC, Torreggiani E, Tognon M, Martini F. The role of microRNAs in the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and bone pathologies. Theranostics 2021; 11:6573-6591. [PMID: 33995677 PMCID: PMC8120225 DOI: 10.7150/thno.55664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified in many adult tissues. MSCs can regenerate through cell division or differentiate into adipocytes, osteoblasts and chondrocytes. As a result, MSCs have become an important source of cells in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine for bone tissue and cartilage. Several epigenetic factors are believed to play a role in MSCs differentiation. Among these, microRNA (miRNA) regulation is involved in the fine modulation of gene expression during osteogenic/chondrogenic differentiation. It has been reported that miRNAs are involved in bone homeostasis by modulating osteoblast gene expression. In addition, countless evidence has demonstrated that miRNAs dysregulation is involved in the development of osteoporosis and bone fractures. The deregulation of miRNAs expression has also been associated with several malignancies including bone cancer. In this context, bone-associated circulating miRNAs may be useful biomarkers for determining the predisposition, onset and development of osteoporosis, as well as in clinical applications to improve the diagnosis, follow-up and treatment of cancer and metastases. Overall, this review will provide an overview of how miRNAs activities participate in osteogenic/chondrogenic differentiation, while addressing the role of miRNA regulatory effects on target genes. Finally, the role of miRNAs in pathologies and therapies will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara. Ferrara, Italy
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Li YJ, Wu HH, Chen CH, Wang HH, Chiang YJ, Hsu HH, Pang ST, Wang RYL, Tian YC. High Incidence and Early Onset of Urinary Tract Cancers in Patients with BK Polyomavirus Associated Nephropathy. Viruses 2021; 13:v13030476. [PMID: 33799453 PMCID: PMC8001968 DOI: 10.3390/v13030476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Over-immunosuppressed kidney transplant recipients are susceptible to malignancies and BK polyomavirus (BKPyV)-associated nephropathy (BKPyVAN). This study aimed to verify the association between BKPyV infection and urinary tract cancers (UTC). A total of 244 kidney transplant recipients were enrolled at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from June 2000 to February 2020. Biopsy-proven BKPyVAN patients (n = 17) had worse kidney function (eGFR: 26 ± 13.7 vs. 47.8 ± 31.0 mL/min/1.73 m2). The 5-year allograft survival rates for patients with and without BKPyVAN were 67% and 93%, respectively (p = 0.0002), while the 10-year patient survival was not different between the two groups. BKPyVAN patients had a significantly higher incidence of UTC compared to the non-BKPyVAN group (29.4% vs. 6.6%). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the UTC-free survival rate was significantly lower in BKPyVAN patients, and the onset of UTC was significantly shorter in BKPyVAN patients (53.4 vs. 108.9 months). The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that age (RR = 1.062) and BKVAN (RR = 6.459) were the most significant risk factors for the development of UTC. Our study demonstrates that BKPyVAN patients have greater allograft losses, higher incidence, a lower cancer-free survival rate, and an earlier onset with a higher relative risk of developing UTC compared to non-BKPyVAN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jung Li
- Kidney Research Center and Department of Nephrology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.); (H.-H.W.); (H.-H.H.)
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-H.W.); (S.-T.P.)
| | - Hsin-Hsu Wu
- Kidney Research Center and Department of Nephrology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.); (H.-H.W.); (H.-H.H.)
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-H.W.); (S.-T.P.)
| | - Cheng-Hsu Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan;
| | - Hsu-Han Wang
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-H.W.); (S.-T.P.)
- Department of Urology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Yang-Jen Chiang
- Department of Urology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Hsiang-Hao Hsu
- Kidney Research Center and Department of Nephrology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.); (H.-H.W.); (H.-H.H.)
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-H.W.); (S.-T.P.)
| | - See-Tong Pang
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-H.W.); (S.-T.P.)
- Department of Urology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Robert Y. L. Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Ya-Chung Tian
- Kidney Research Center and Department of Nephrology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (Y.-J.L.); (H.-H.W.); (H.-H.H.)
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-H.W.); (S.-T.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-328-1200 (ext. 8181); Fax: +886-328-2173
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Harnish JM, Link N, Yamamoto S. Drosophila as a Model for Infectious Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2724. [PMID: 33800390 PMCID: PMC7962867 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, has been used to understand fundamental principles of genetics and biology for over a century. Drosophila is now also considered an essential tool to study mechanisms underlying numerous human genetic diseases. In this review, we will discuss how flies can be used to deepen our knowledge of infectious disease mechanisms in vivo. Flies make effective and applicable models for studying host-pathogen interactions thanks to their highly conserved innate immune systems and cellular processes commonly hijacked by pathogens. Drosophila researchers also possess the most powerful, rapid, and versatile tools for genetic manipulation in multicellular organisms. This allows for robust experiments in which specific pathogenic proteins can be expressed either one at a time or in conjunction with each other to dissect the molecular functions of each virulent factor in a cell-type-specific manner. Well documented phenotypes allow large genetic and pharmacological screens to be performed with relative ease using huge collections of mutant and transgenic strains that are publicly available. These factors combine to make Drosophila a powerful tool for dissecting out host-pathogen interactions as well as a tool to better understand how we can treat infectious diseases that pose risks to public health, including COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Michael Harnish
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine (BCM), Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.M.H.); (N.L.)
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nichole Link
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine (BCM), Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.M.H.); (N.L.)
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shinya Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine (BCM), Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.M.H.); (N.L.)
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, BCM, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Development, Disease Models and Therapeutics Graduate Program, BCM, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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35
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Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Iaquinta MR, Taraballi F, Torreggiani E, Rotondo JC, Otòn-Gonzalez L, Mazzoni E, Frontini F, Bononi I, De Mattei M, Tognon M, Martini F. MicroRNAs Modulate Signaling Pathways in Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2362. [PMID: 33673409 PMCID: PMC7956574 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified in many adult tissues and they have been closely studied in recent years, especially in view of their potential use for treating diseases and damaged tissues and organs. MSCs are capable of self-replication and differentiation into osteoblasts and are considered an important source of cells in tissue engineering for bone regeneration. Several epigenetic factors are believed to play a role in the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, including microRNAs (miRNAs). MiRNAs are small, single-stranded, non-coding RNAs of approximately 22 nucleotides that are able to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis by binding the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of target mRNAs, which can be subsequently degraded or translationally silenced. MiRNAs control gene expression in osteogenic differentiation by regulating two crucial signaling cascades in osteogenesis: the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and the Wingless/Int-1(Wnt)/β-catenin signaling pathways. This review provides an overview of the miRNAs involved in osteogenic differentiation and how these miRNAs could regulate the expression of target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Maria Rosa Iaquinta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Taraballi
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6565 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Elena Torreggiani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Lucia Otòn-Gonzalez
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Elisa Mazzoni
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesca Frontini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64b Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.M.); (C.L.); (M.R.I.); (E.T.); (J.C.R.); (L.O.-G.); (E.M.); (F.F.); (I.B.); (F.M.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 70, Eliporto Street, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Lin J, Jiang W, Shi Y, Cai W. Metagenomic Sequencing Revealed the Potential Pathogenic Threats of Banknotes. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:3499-3507. [PMID: 33585735 PMCID: PMC7876676 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c04546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Banknotes have long been suspected to be biologically "dirty" due to their frequent human contact, which may transmit human microbial pathogens. Still, it is an unsettled issue whether the microbes on banknotes pose a real threat to human health. In several previous studies, metagenomic sequencing was used to reveal the diversities of microbes on banknotes but live microorganism culture and functional verification were lacking. In this study, we collected banknotes of RMB in China as well as dollar bills in the United States and analyzed the microbial biodiversity and drug resistance genes carried by the identified microbes by metagenomic sequencing and in vitro culture methods. We identified eight major genera of drug-resistant bacteria through screening of 30 antibiotics, and the blood agar plate culture uncovered six pathogenic fungal species. Numerous phage and six dangerous viral sequences were also found. These results should substantiate our concern about the potential risk of banknotes to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lin
- Institute
of Applied Genomics, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- School
of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical
University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- College
of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou
University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- Fujian
Key Laboratory of Marine Enzyme Engineering, Fuzhou University, No.2 Xueyuan Road, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Wenqian Jiang
- Institute
of Applied Genomics, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- College
of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou
University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Yang Shi
- Institute
of Applied Genomics, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- College
of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou
University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Weiwen Cai
- Institute
of Applied Genomics, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
- College
of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou
University, Fuzhou 350108, China
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37
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Asciak R, George V, Rahman NM. Update on biology and management of mesothelioma. Eur Respir Rev 2021; 30:30/159/200226. [PMID: 33472960 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0226-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive, incurable cancer that is usually caused by asbestos exposure several decades before symptoms arise. Despite widespread prohibition of asbestos production and supply, its incidence continues to increase. It is heterogeneous in its presentation and behaviour, and diagnosis can be notoriously difficult. Identification of actionable gene mutations has proven challenging and current treatment options are largely ineffective, with a median survival of 10-12 months.However, the past few years have witnessed major advances in our understanding of the biology and pathogenesis of mesothelioma. This has also revealed the limitations of existing diagnostic algorithms and identified new treatment targets.Recent clinical trials have re-examined the role of surgery, provided new options for the management of associated pleural effusions and heralded the addition of targeted therapies. The increasing complexity of mesothelioma management, along with a desperate need for further research, means that a multidisciplinary team framework is essential for the delivery of contemporary mesothelioma care.This review provides a synthesised overview of the current state of knowledge and an update on the latest research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle Asciak
- Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK .,Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - Vineeth George
- Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Najiib M Rahman
- Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Rossini M, Martini F, Torreggiani E, Fortini F, Aquila G, Sega FVD, Patergnani S, Pinton P, Maniscalco P, Cavallesco G, Rizzo P, Tognon M. Metformin Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Notch1 in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:534499. [PMID: 33537296 PMCID: PMC7849608 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.534499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive asbestos-related cancer arising from the mesothelial cells lining the pleural cavity. MPM is characterized by a silent clinical progression and a highly resistance to conventional chemo/radio-therapies. MPM patients die in a few months/years from diagnosis. Notch signaling is a well-conserved cell communication system, which regulates many biological processes. In humans, the dysregulation of Notch pathway potentially contributes to cancer onset/progression, including MPM. Metformin is the first-line drug used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin is proven to be an effective antitumor drug in preclinical models of different types of cancer. To date, clinical efficacy is being studied in many clinical trials. In this study, the anti-proliferative effect of metformin on MPM cells and the putative involvement of Notch1 as a mediator of metformin activities, were investigated. MPM cells showed high levels of Notch1 activation compared to normal pleural mesothelial cells. Furthermore, metformin treatment hampered MPM cell proliferation and enhanced the apoptotic process, accompanied by decreased Notch1 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Rossini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Torreggiani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Fortini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Aquila
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Simone Patergnani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pio Maniscalco
- Surgery Unit, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Paola Rizzo
- Laboratory for Technology of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Oton-Gonzalez L, Rotondo JC, Cerritelli L, Malagutti N, Lanzillotti C, Bononi I, Ciorba A, Bianchini C, Mazziotta C, De Mattei M, Pelucchi S, Tognon M, Martini F. Association between oncogenic human papillomavirus type 16 and Killian polyp. Infect Agent Cancer 2021; 16:3. [PMID: 33413530 PMCID: PMC7792173 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-020-00342-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Killian polyp (KP) is a benign lesion that arises from the maxillary sinus. The etiology of KP is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential involvement of human papilloma- (HPV) and polyoma-viruses (HPyV) infections in the onset of KP. METHODS DNA from antral (n = 14) and nasal (n = 14) KP fractions were analyzed for HPV and HPyV sequences, genotypes, viral DNA load and physical status along with expression of viral proteins and p16 cellular protein. RESULTS The oncogenic HPV16 was detected in 3/14 (21.4%) antral KPs, whilst nasal KPs tested HPV-negative (0/14). The mean HPV16 DNA load was 4.65 ± 2.64 copy/104 cell. The whole HPV16 episomal genome was detected in one KP sample, whereas HPV16 DNA integration in two KPs. P16 mRNA level was lower in the KP sample carrying HPV16 episome than in KPs carrying integrated HPV16 and HPV- negative KPs (p< 0.001). None of the antral and nasal KP samples tested positive for HPyV DNA (0/28). CONCLUSIONS A fraction of KP tested positive for the oncogenic HPV16. HPV16 detection in the KP antral portion may be consistent with HPV16 infection derived from the maxillary sinus. HPV16 DNA integration represents a novel finding. Altogether, these data improve our knowledge on the association between KP and HPV infection, whereas it indicates that the KP onset is heterogeneous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Oton-Gonzalez
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Cerritelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialistic Surgeries, ENT Section, University of Ferrara and University Hospital of Ferrara, 8, Aldo Moro Square, 44124, Cona, Italy
| | - Nicola Malagutti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialistic Surgeries, ENT Section, University of Ferrara and University Hospital of Ferrara, 8, Aldo Moro Square, 44124, Cona, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciorba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialistic Surgeries, ENT Section, University of Ferrara and University Hospital of Ferrara, 8, Aldo Moro Square, 44124, Cona, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianchini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialistic Surgeries, ENT Section, University of Ferrara and University Hospital of Ferrara, 8, Aldo Moro Square, 44124, Cona, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Pelucchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialistic Surgeries, ENT Section, University of Ferrara and University Hospital of Ferrara, 8, Aldo Moro Square, 44124, Cona, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/B, Fossato di Mortara Street, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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40
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Rotondo JC, Oton-Gonzalez L, Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Iaquinta MR, Tognon M, Martini F. Simultaneous Detection and Viral DNA Load Quantification of Different Human Papillomavirus Types in Clinical Specimens by the High Analytical Droplet Digital PCR Method. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:591452. [PMID: 33329471 PMCID: PMC7710522 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.591452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are small DNA tumor viruses that mainly infect mucosal epithelia of anogenital and upper respiratory tracts. There has been progressive demand for more analytical assays for HPV DNA quantification. A novel droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) method was developed to simultaneously detect and quantify HPV DNA from different HPV types. DdPCR was initially tested for assay sensitivity, accuracy, specificity as well as intra- and inter-run assay variation employing four recombinant plasmids containing HPV16, HPV18, HPV11, and HPV45 DNAs. The assay was extended to investigate/quantify HPV DNA in Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN, n = 45) specimens and human cell lines (n = 4). DdPCR and qPCR data from clinical samples were compared. The assay showed high accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, with low intra-/inter- run variations, in detecting/quantifying HPV16/18/11/45 DNAs. HPV DNA was detected in 51.1% (23/45) CIN DNA samples by ddPCR, whereas 40% (18/45) CIN tested HPV-positive by qPCR. Five CIN, tested positive by ddPCR, were found to be negative by qPCR. In CIN specimens, the mean HPV DNA loads determined by ddPCR were 3.81 copy/cell (range 0.002-51.02 copy/cell), whereas 8.04 copy/cell (range 0.003-78.73 copy/cell) by qPCR. DdPCR and qPCR concordantly detected HPV DNA in SiHa, CaSki and Hela cells, whereas HaCaT tested HPV-negative. The correlation between HPV DNA loads simultaneously detected by ddPCR/qPCR in CINs/cell lines was good (R 2 = 0.9706, p < 0.0001). Our data indicate that ddPCR is a valuable technique in quantifying HPV DNA load in CIN specimens and human cell lines, thereby improving clinical applications, such as patient management after primary diagnosis of HPV-related lesions with HPV-type specific assays.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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41
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Ferreira DA, Tayyar Y, Idris A, McMillan NAJ. A "hit-and-run" affair - A possible link for cancer progression in virally driven cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1875:188476. [PMID: 33186643 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well-known that certain cancers are caused by viruses. However, viral oncogenesis is complex and only a small fraction of the infected people develop cancer. Indeed, a number of environmental factors can contribute to virally infected cells developing cancer hallmarks, promoting tumorigenesis. SCOPE OF REVIEW The hit-and-run theory proposes that viruses facilitate the accumulation of mutations and promote genomic instability until the virus becomes dispensable for tumour maintenance. Indeed, several studies have reported viral genome, episome and/or oncogene loss in tumour cells without losing malignant phenotype. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS The current evidence supports the clear contribution of certain viruses to develop cancers. Importantly, the evidence supporting the sustained maintenance of malignancy after the loss of viral "presence" is sufficient to support the hit-and-run hypothesis of viral cancer development. Long-term tracking of vaccination outcome over the decades will test this theory. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE If the hit-and-run theory is true, viruses might cause more cancers than previously thought and will have implications in the prevention of many cancers through implementing vaccination programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyelle A Ferreira
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yaman Tayyar
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Adi Idris
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Nigel A J McMillan
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
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42
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Lodhi N, Tun M, Nagpal P, Inamdar AA, Ayoub NM, Siyam N, Oton-Gonzalez L, Gerona A, Morris D, Sandhu R, Suh KS. Biomarkers and novel therapeutic approaches for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in the era of precision medicine. Oncotarget 2020; 11:4045-4073. [PMID: 33216822 PMCID: PMC7646825 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the great efforts for better treatment options for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (most common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, NHL) to treat and prevent relapse, it continues to be a challenge. Here, we present an overview of DLBCL and address the diagnostic assays and molecular techniques used in its diagnosis, role of biomarkers in detection, treatment of early and advanced stage DLBCL, and novel drug regimens. We discuss the significant biomarkers that have emerged as essential tools for stratifying patients according to risk factors and for providing insights into the use of more targeted and individualized therapeutics. We discuss techniques such as gene expression studies, including next-generation sequencing, which have enabled a more understanding of the complex pathogenesis of DLBCL and have helped determine molecular targets for novel therapeutic agents. We examine current treatment approaches, outline the findings of completed clinical trials, and provide updates for ongoing clinical trials. We highlight clinical trials relevant to the significant fraction of DLBCL patients who present with complex cases marked by high relapse rates. Supported by an increased understanding of targetable pathways in DLBCL, clinical trials involving specialized combination therapies are bringing us within reach the promise of an effective cure to DLBCL using precision medicine. Optimization of therapy remains a crucial objective, with the end goal being a balance between high survival rates through targeted and personalized treatment while reducing adverse effects in DLBCL patients of all subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Lodhi
- Department of Immunotherapeutic and Biotechnology, Texas Tech Health Science Center, Abilene, TX, USA
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Moe Tun
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Poonam Nagpal
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
- College of Natural, Applied, and Health Sciences, Kean University, Union, NJ, USA
| | - Arati A. Inamdar
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Nehad M. Ayoub
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Noor Siyam
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | | | - Angela Gerona
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Dainelle Morris
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Rana Sandhu
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Kwangsun Stephen Suh
- Formerly: The Genomics and Biomarkers Program, John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, David Jurist Research Building, Hackensack, NJ, USA
- DiagnoCine, Hackensack, NJ, USA
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43
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Gales JP, Kubina J, Geldreich A, Dimitrova M. Strength in Diversity: Nuclear Export of Viral RNAs. Viruses 2020; 12:E1014. [PMID: 32932882 PMCID: PMC7551171 DOI: 10.3390/v12091014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear export of cellular mRNAs is a complex process that requires the orchestrated participation of many proteins that are recruited during the early steps of mRNA synthesis and processing. This strategy allows the cell to guarantee the conformity of the messengers accessing the cytoplasm and the translation machinery. Most transcripts are exported by the exportin dimer Nuclear RNA export factor 1 (NXF1)-NTF2-related export protein 1 (NXT1) and the transcription-export complex 1 (TREX1). Some mRNAs that do not possess all the common messenger characteristics use either variants of the NXF1-NXT1 pathway or CRM1, a different exportin. Viruses whose mRNAs are synthesized in the nucleus (retroviruses, the vast majority of DNA viruses, and influenza viruses) exploit both these cellular export pathways. Viral mRNAs hijack the cellular export machinery via complex secondary structures recognized by cellular export factors and/or viral adapter proteins. This way, the viral transcripts succeed in escaping the host surveillance system and are efficiently exported for translation, allowing the infectious cycle to proceed. This review gives an overview of the cellular mRNA nuclear export mechanisms and presents detailed insights into the most important strategies that viruses use to export the different forms of their RNAs from the nucleus to the cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jón Pol Gales
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes, The French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) UPR2357, Université de Strasbourg, F-67084 Strasbourg, France; (J.P.G.); (J.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Julie Kubina
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes, The French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) UPR2357, Université de Strasbourg, F-67084 Strasbourg, France; (J.P.G.); (J.K.); (A.G.)
- SVQV UMR-A 1131, INRAE, Université de Strasbourg, F-68000 Colmar, France
| | - Angèle Geldreich
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes, The French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) UPR2357, Université de Strasbourg, F-67084 Strasbourg, France; (J.P.G.); (J.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Dimitrova
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes, The French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) UPR2357, Université de Strasbourg, F-67084 Strasbourg, France; (J.P.G.); (J.K.); (A.G.)
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44
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Tognon M, Tagliapietra A, Magagnoli F, Mazziotta C, Oton-Gonzalez L, Lanzillotti C, Vesce F, Contini C, Rotondo JC, Martini F. Investigation on Spontaneous Abortion and Human Papillomavirus Infection. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E473. [PMID: 32854278 PMCID: PMC7563606 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral infections are considered to be risk factors for spontaneous abortion (SA). Conflicting results have been reported on the association between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and SA. HPV DNA was investigated in matched chorionic villi tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from women who experienced SA (n = 80, cases) and women who underwent a voluntary interruption of pregnancy (VI; n = 80, controls) by qualitative PCR and quantitative droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Viral genotyping was performed using real-time PCR in HPV-positive samples. Specific IgG antibodies against HPV16 were investigated in sera from SA (n = 80) and VI (n = 80) females using indirect ELISA assays. None of the DNA samples from SA subjects was HPV-positive (0/80), whilst HPV DNA was detected in 2.5% of VI women (p > 0.05), with a mean viral DNA load of 7.12 copy/cell. VI samples (n = 2) were found to be positive for the HPV45 genotype. The ddPCR assay revealed a higher number of HPV-positive samples. HPV DNA was detected in 3.7% and 5% of SA and VI chorionic tissues, respectively, with mean viral DNA loads of 0.13 copy/cell in SA and 1.79 copy/cell in VI (p >0.05) samples. All DNA samples from the PBMCs of SA and VI females tested HPV-negative by both PCR and ddPCR. The overall prevalence of serum anti-HPV16 IgG antibodies was 37.5% in SA and 30% in VI (p > 0.05) women. For the first time, HPV DNA was detected and quantitatively analyzed using ddPCR in chorionic villi tissues and PBMCs from SA and VI women. Circulating IgG antibodies against HPV16 were detected in sera from SA and VI females. Our results suggest that HPV infection in chorionic villi may be a rare event. Accordingly, it is likely that HPV has no significant role in SA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Fossato di Mortara street, 64, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (A.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (L.O.-G.); (C.L.); (F.V.); (C.C.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Fossato di Mortara street, 64, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.T.); (A.T.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (L.O.-G.); (C.L.); (F.V.); (C.C.)
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45
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Provenzano M, Allayeh AK. Liquid Biopsy to Detect DNA/RNA Based Markers of Small DNA Oncogenic Viruses for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Prediction. Front Oncol 2020; 10:778. [PMID: 32733786 PMCID: PMC7362723 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Provenzano
- Oncology Research Unit, Department of Urology and Division of Surgical Research, University Hospital of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,Department of Immunology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Abdou Kamal Allayeh
- Oncology Research Unit, Department of Urology and Division of Surgical Research, University Hospital of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,Virology Lab 176, Environmental Research Division, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
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46
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Zhou H, Liu LP, Fang M, Li YM, Zheng YW. A potential ex vivo infection model of human induced pluripotent stem cell-3D organoids beyond coronavirus disease 2019. Histol Histopathol 2020; 35:1077-1082. [PMID: 32339250 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak began in the city of Wuhan, whereupon it rapidly spread throughout China and subsequently across the world. Rapid transmission of COVID-19 has caused wide-spread panic. Many established medications have been used to treat the disease symptoms; however, no specific drugs or vaccines have been developed. Organoids derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) may serve as suitable infection models for ex vivo mimicking of the viral life cycle and drug screening. Human iPSC-3D organoids, self-organised tissues with multiple cell environments, have a similar structure and function as real human organs; hence, these organoids allow greater viral infection efficiency, mimic the natural host-virus interactions, and are suitable for long-term experimentation. Here, we suggest the use of a functional human iPSC-organoid that could act as a reliable and feasible ex vivo infection model for investigation of the virus. This approach will provide much needed insight into the underlying molecular dynamics of COVID-19 for the development of novel treatment and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhou
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li-Ping Liu
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei Fang
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Mei Li
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yun-Wen Zheng
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan. .,School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.,Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,School of Biotechnology and Healt Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, Guandong, P.R. China
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47
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Creation and characterization of an immortalized canine myoblast cell line: Myok9. Mamm Genome 2020; 31:95-109. [PMID: 32246189 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-020-09833-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The availability of an in vitro canine cell line would reduce the need for dogs for primary in vitro cell culture and reduce overall cost in pre-clinical studies. An immortalized canine muscle cell line, named Myok9, from primary myoblasts of a normal dog has been developed by the authors. Immortalization was performed by SV40 viral transfection of the large T antigen into the primary muscle cells. Proliferation assays, growth curves, quantitative PCR, western blotting, mass spectrometry, and light microscopy were performed to characterize the MyoK9 cell line at different stages of growth and differentiation. The expression of muscle-related genes was determined to assess myogenic origin. Myok9 cells expressed dystrophin and other muscle-specific proteins during differentiation, as detected with mass spectrometry and western blotting. Using the Myok9 cell line, new therapies before moving to pre-clinical studies to enhance the number and speed of analyses and reduce the cost of early experimentation can be tested now. This cell line will be made available to the research community to further evaluate potential therapeutics.
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48
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Malagutti N, Rotondo JC, Cerritelli L, Melchiorri C, De Mattei M, Selvatici R, Oton-Gonzalez L, Stomeo F, Mazzoli M, Borin M, Mores B, Ciorba A, Tognon M, Pelucchi S, Martini F. High Human Papillomavirus DNA loads in Inflammatory Middle Ear Diseases. Pathogens 2020; 9:224. [PMID: 32197385 PMCID: PMC7157545 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9030224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Previous studies reported human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in middle ear tumors, whereas these viruses have been poorly investigated in chronic inflammatory middle ear diseases. We investigated HPVs in non-tumor middle ear diseases, including chronic otitis media (COM). Methods. COM specimens (n = 52), including chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) (n =38) and cholesteatoma (COMC) (n = 14), as well as normal middle ear (NME) specimens (n = 56) were analyzed. HPV sequences and DNA loads were analyzed by quantitative-PCR. HPV genotyping was performed by direct sequencing. Results. HPV DNA was detected in 23% (12/52) of COM and in 30.4% (17/56) of NME (p > 0.05). Specifically, HPV DNA sequences were found in 26.3% (10/38) of CSOM and in 14.3% (2/14) of COMC (p > 0.05). Interestingly, the HPV DNA load was higher in COMC (mean 7.47 copy/cell) than in CSOM (mean 1.02 copy/cell) and NME (mean 1.18 copy/cell) (P = 0.03 and P = 0.017 versus CSOM and NME, respectively). HPV16 and HPV18 were the main genotypes detected in COMC, CSOM and NME. Conclusions. These data suggest that HPV may infect the middle ear mucosa, whereas HPV-positive COMCs are associated with higher viral DNA loads as compared to NME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Malagutti
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Luca Cerritelli
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Claudio Melchiorri
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Monica De Mattei
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Rita Selvatici
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Lucia Oton-Gonzalez
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Francesco Stomeo
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Manuela Mazzoli
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Michela Borin
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Beatrice Mores
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Andrea Ciorba
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
| | - Stefano Pelucchi
- ENT Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (N.M.); (L.C.); (C.M.); (F.S.); (M.M.); (M.B.); (B.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (M.D.M.); (L.O.-G.); (M.T.)
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Mazzoni E, Pellegrinelli E, Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Rotondo JC, Bononi I, Iaquinta MR, Manfrini M, Vesce F, Tognon M, Martini F. Mother-to-child transmission of oncogenic polyomaviruses BKPyV, JCPyV and SV40. J Infect 2020; 80:563-570. [PMID: 32097686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Polyomavirus (PyV) infections have been associated with different diseases. BK (BKPyV), JC (JCPyV) and simian virus 40 (SV40) are the three main PyVs whose primary infection occurs early in life. Their vertical transmission was investigated in this study. METHODS PyV sequences were analyzed by the digital droplet PCR in blood, serum, placenta, amniotic fluid, vaginal smear from two independent cohorts of pregnant females and umbilical cord blood (UCB) samples. IgG antibodies against the three PyVs were investigated by indirect E.L.I.S.As with viral mimotopes. RESULTS DNAs from blood, vaginal smear and placenta tested BKPyV-, JCPyV- and SV40-positive with a distinct prevalence, while amniotic fluids were all PyVs-negative. A prevalence of 3%, 7%, and 3% for BKPyV, JCPyV and SV40 DNA sequences, respectively, was obtained in UCBs. Serum IgG antibodies from pregnant females reached an overall prevalence of 62%, 42% and 17% for BKPyV, JCPyV and SV40, respectively. Sera from newborns (UCB) tested IgG-positive with a prevalence of 10% for BKPyV/JCPyV and 3% for SV40. CONCLUSIONS In this investigation, PyV vertical transmission was revealed by detecting PyV DNA sequences and IgG antibodies in samples from females and their offspring suggesting a potential risk of diseases in newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Mazzoni
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Elena Pellegrinelli
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bononi
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Iaquinta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Marco Manfrini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy; Biostatistic Unit, GVM Care & Research, Maria Cecilia Hospital, Cotignola, Italy
| | - Fortunato Vesce
- Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy.
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 64/b, Fossato di Mortara Street, Ferrara 44121, Italy.
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Abstract
Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a DNA tumor virus capable of infecting and transforming human mesothelial (HM) cells in vitro. Hamsters injected intracardially to expose most tissue types to SV40 preferentially develop mesotheliomas. In humans, asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma, and asbestos and SV40 are co-carcinogens in transforming HM cells in tissue culture and in causing mesothelioma in hamsters. Laser microdissection experiments conducted in the laboratory of Adi Gazdar demonstrated that SV40 was present specifically in the malignant mesothelioma cells and not in nearby stromal cells. Further experiments demonstrated that SV40 remains episomal in HM cells and astrocytes because of the production of a long antisense RNA that represses viral capsid protein production. Thus, the potent SV40 oncoprotein, T-antigen (Tag), is expressed, but because the capsid proteins are not produced, the cells are not lysed and, instead, become transformed. Together this evidence suggests that SV40 may contribute to the development of mesotheliomas in humans. However, epidemiological evidence to support this hypothesis is lacking. This chapter also summarizes the introduction of SV40, a monkey virus, into the human population as an unrecognized contaminant of early poliovaccines. In addition to mesotheliomas, SV40 now is linked with brain cancers, osteosarcomas, and lymphomas in humans. Explanations are provided for the apparent geographic variations in SV40 prevalence and for controversies about the role of SV40 in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adi Gazdar
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Janet S Butel
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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