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Manzoni P, Messina A, Germano C, Picone S, Masturzo B, Sainaghi PP, Sola D, Rizzi M. Lactoferrin Supplementation in Preventing and Protecting from SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Is There Any Role in General and Special Populations? An Updated Review of Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:10248. [PMID: 39408576 PMCID: PMC11476995 DOI: 10.3390/ijms251910248] [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: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/21/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
At the beginning of the pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 infection represented a great medical burden worldwide, as targeted and effective therapeutic options were lacking. This resulted in the revival of existing molecules and the increasing popularity of over-the-counter nutritional supplements. Among the latter, lactoferrin has been investigated as an adjuvant in COVID-19 therapy with conflicting results, mainly depending on different study designs. Considering that lactoferrin is one of the main components of human breast milk with anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activity, it is conceivable that such bioactive molecule could be effective in supporting anti-SARS-CoV-2 infection therapy, especially in infants and pregnant women, two subpopulations that have been poorly evaluated in the existing clinical trials. This narrative review is intended to offer insight into the existing literature on lactoferrin's biological functions and protective effects against COVID-19, with a special focus on pregnant women and their infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Manzoni
- Department of Maternal, Neonatal and Infant Medicine, University Hospital “Degli Infermi”, 13875 Ponderano, Italy (B.M.)
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Messina
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy;
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Germano
- Department of Maternal, Neonatal and Infant Medicine, University Hospital “Degli Infermi”, 13875 Ponderano, Italy (B.M.)
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - Simonetta Picone
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Policlinico Casilino, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Department of Maternal, Neonatal and Infant Medicine, University Hospital “Degli Infermi”, 13875 Ponderano, Italy (B.M.)
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine (DiMeT), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Daniele Sola
- Department of Translational Medicine (DiMeT), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Laboratory of Metabolic Research, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, S. Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy
| | - Manuela Rizzi
- IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences (DiSS), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
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Kaplan M, Baktıroğlu M, Kalkan AE, Canbolat AA, Lombardo M, Raposo A, de Brito Alves JL, Witkowska AM, Karav S. Lactoferrin: A Promising Therapeutic Molecule against Human Papillomavirus. Nutrients 2024; 16:3073. [PMID: 39339673 PMCID: PMC11435110 DOI: 10.3390/nu16183073] [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: 08/26/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin is a multifunctional glycoprotein naturally found in mammalian secretions, predominantly in colostrum and milk. As a key component of dairy foods, lactoferrin enhances viral protection and boosts human health, owing to its fundamental properties including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulatory effects. Importantly, the antiviral effect of lactoferrin has been shown against a range of viruses causing serious infections and threatening human health. One of the viruses that lactoferrin exerts significant antiviral effects on is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the most prevalent transmitted infection affecting a myriad of people around the world. Lactoferrin has a high potential to inhibit HPV via different mechanisms, including direct binding to viral envelope proteins or their cell receptors, thereby hindering viral entry and immune stimulation by triggering the release of some immune-related molecules through the body, such as lymphocytes. Along with HPV, lactoferrin also can inhibit a range of viruses including coronaviruses and hepatitis viruses in the same manner. Here, we overview the current knowledge of lactoferrin and its effects on HPV and other viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Kaplan
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK;
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale 17100, Turkey; (A.E.K.); (A.A.C.)
| | - Merve Baktıroğlu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Istanbul University, Istanbul 34452, Turkey;
- Canakkale Mehmet Akif Ersoy Government Hospital, Canakkale 17110, Turkey
| | - Arda Erkan Kalkan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale 17100, Turkey; (A.E.K.); (A.A.C.)
| | - Ahmet Alperen Canbolat
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale 17100, Turkey; (A.E.K.); (A.A.C.)
| | - Mauro Lombardo
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di 11 Val Cannuta 247, 00166 Rome, Italy;
| | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - José Luiz de Brito Alves
- Department of Nutrition, Health Science Center, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil;
| | - Anna Maria Witkowska
- Department of Food Biotechnology, Bialystok Medical University, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Sercan Karav
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale 17100, Turkey; (A.E.K.); (A.A.C.)
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Carolin A, Frazer D, Yan K, Bishop CR, Tang B, Nguyen W, Helman SL, Horvat J, Larcher T, Rawle DJ, Suhrbier A. The effects of iron deficient and high iron diets on SARS-CoV-2 lung infection and disease. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1441495. [PMID: 39296289 PMCID: PMC11408339 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1441495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The severity of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is often dictated by a range of comorbidities. A considerable literature suggests iron deficiency and iron overload may contribute to increased infection, inflammation and disease severity, although direct causal relationships have been difficult to establish. Methods Here we generate iron deficient and iron loaded C57BL/6 J mice by feeding standard low and high iron diets, with mice on a normal iron diet representing controls. All mice were infected with a primary SARS-CoV-2 omicron XBB isolate and lung inflammatory responses were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry and RNA-Seq. Results Compared with controls, iron deficient mice showed no significant changes in lung viral loads or histopathology, whereas, iron loaded mice showed slightly, but significantly, reduced lung viral loads and histopathology. Transcriptional changes were modest, but illustrated widespread dysregulation of inflammation signatures for both iron deficient vs. controls, and iron loaded vs. controls. Some of these changes could be associated with detrimental outcomes, whereas others would be viewed as beneficial. Discussion Diet-associated iron deficiency or overload thus induced modest modulations of inflammatory signatures, but no significant histopathologically detectable disease exacerbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Carolin
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David Frazer
- Molecular Nutrition, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kexin Yan
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Cameron R Bishop
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Bing Tang
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Wilson Nguyen
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Sheridan L Helman
- Molecular Nutrition, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jay Horvat
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Daniel J Rawle
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Andreas Suhrbier
- Inflammation Biology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- GVN Centre of Excellence, Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Dhar H, Verma S, Dogra S, Katoch S, Vij R, Singh G, Sharma M. Functional attributes of bioactive peptides of bovine milk origin and application of in silico approaches for peptide prediction and functional annotations. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024; 64:9432-9454. [PMID: 37218679 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2023.2212803] [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: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Bovine milk peptides are the protein fragments with diverse bioactive properties having antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, other therapeutic and nutraceutical potentials. These peptides are formed in milk by enzymatic hydrolysis, gastrointestinal digestion and fermentation processes. They have significant health impact with high potency and low toxicity making them a suitable natural alternative for preventing and managing diseases. Antibiotic resistance has increased the quest for better peptide candidates with antimicrobial effects. This article presents a comprehensive review on well documented antimicrobial, immunological, opioid, and anti-hypertensive activities of bovine milk peptides. It also covers the usage of computational biology tools and databases for prediction and analysis of the food-derived bioactive peptides. In silico analysis of amino acid sequences of Bos taurus milk proteins have been predicted to generate peptides with dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitory and ACE inhibitory properties, making them favorable candidates for developing blood sugar lowering drugs and anti-hypertensives. In addition to the prediction of new bioactive peptides, application of bioinformatics tools to predict novel functions of already known peptides is also discussed. Overall, this review focuses on the reported as well as predicted biologically active peptide of casein and whey proteins of bovine milk that can be utilized to develop therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hena Dhar
- Department of Microbiology, School of Biosciences, RIMT University, Mandi Gobindgarh, India
| | - Subhash Verma
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, India
| | - Sarita Dogra
- PGIMR, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shailja Katoch
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, India
| | - Rishika Vij
- Department of Veterinary Physiology & Biochemistry, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, India
| | - Geetanjali Singh
- Department of Veterinary Physiology & Biochemistry, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, India
| | - Mandeep Sharma
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, India
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Babulic P, Cehlar O, Ondrovičová G, Moskalets T, Skrabana R, Leksa V. Lactoferrin Binds through Its N-Terminus to the Receptor-Binding Domain of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1021. [PMID: 39204126 PMCID: PMC11357225 DOI: 10.3390/ph17081021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Since Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still presents a considerable threat, it is beneficial to provide therapeutic supplements against it. In this respect, glycoprotein lactoferrin (LF) and lactoferricin (LFC), a natural bioactive peptide yielded upon digestion from the N-terminus of LF, are of utmost interest, since both have been shown to reduce infections of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, in particular via blockade of the virus priming and binding. Here, we, by means of biochemical and biophysical methods, reveal that LF directly binds to the S-protein of SARS-CoV-2. We determined thermodynamic and kinetic characteristics of the complex formation and mapped the mutual binding sites involved in this interaction, namely the N-terminal region of LF and the receptor-binding domain of the S-protein (RBD). These results may not only explain many of the observed protective effects of LF and LFC in SARS-CoV-2 infection but may also be instrumental in proposing potent and cost-effective supplemental tools in the management of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrik Babulic
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.B.); (G.O.); (T.M.)
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ondrej Cehlar
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Gabriela Ondrovičová
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.B.); (G.O.); (T.M.)
| | - Tetiana Moskalets
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.B.); (G.O.); (T.M.)
| | - Rostislav Skrabana
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Vladimir Leksa
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.B.); (G.O.); (T.M.)
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Fareed SA, Yousef EM, Abd El-Moneam SM. Effects of prolonged hydroxychloroquine use on the pancreatic tissue and expected ameliorative effect of lactoferrin in rats (biochemical, histological, and morphometric study). Tissue Cell 2024; 89:102439. [PMID: 38889555 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102439] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), an antimalarial drug widely used in treating rheumatoid disorders. Many side effects have been reported with HCQ administration indicating its hazardous effects on various organs. No previous studies reported the effect of long-term administration of oral HCQ on pancreatic tissue. Our study assessed pancreatic tissues functional and histopathological alterations following prolonged oral administration of HCQ. We also investigated the possible ameliorative effects of the lactoferrin (LF) coadministration with HCQ in adult male albino rats. Forty adult male Wister albino rats were divided into: negative control, LF positive control (2 g/kg), HCQ-treated (200 mg/kg), and HCQ+LF treated. Biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical, and morphometric analyses of the pancreatic tissues were conducted. Our findings revealed that prolonged oral administration of HCQ induced significant disruption of the pancreatic acinar architecture, enlarged congested islets of Langerhans, and elevated plasma insulin, amylase, and lipase levels. Interestingly, LF administration ameliorated the deleterious effects of prolonged HCQ administration on pancreatic tissue of adult male albino rats. In conclusion, prolonged oral administration of HCQ induced pancreatic tissue damage in rats, while LF attenuates HCQ-induced pancreatic injury. Our results emphasized the necessity of prescribing HCQ with caution, considering both dosage and treatment duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa Antar Fareed
- Department of Human Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.
| | - Einas Mohamed Yousef
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt.
| | - Samar M Abd El-Moneam
- Department of Human Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.
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Gori A, Brindisi G, Daglia M, del Giudice MM, Dinardo G, Di Minno A, Drago L, Indolfi C, Naso M, Trincianti C, Tondina E, Brunese FP, Ullah H, Varricchio A, Ciprandi G, Zicari AM. Exploring the Role of Lactoferrin in Managing Allergic Airway Diseases among Children: Unrevealing a Potential Breakthrough. Nutrients 2024; 16:1906. [PMID: 38931261 PMCID: PMC11206375 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121906] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of allergic diseases has dramatically increased among children in recent decades. These conditions significantly impact the quality of life of allergic children and their families. Lactoferrin, a multifunctional glycoprotein found in various biological fluids, is emerging as a promising immunomodulatory agent that can potentially alleviate allergic diseases in children. Lactoferrin's multifaceted properties make it a compelling candidate for managing these conditions. Firstly, lactoferrin exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can mitigate the chronic inflammation characteristic of allergic diseases. Secondly, its iron-binding capabilities may help regulate the iron balance in allergic children, potentially influencing the severity of their symptoms. Lactoferrin also demonstrates antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial in preventing secondary infections often associated with respiratory allergies. Furthermore, its ability to modulate the immune response and regulate inflammatory pathways suggests its potential as an immune-balancing agent. This review of the current literature emphasises the need for further research to elucidate the precise roles of lactoferrin in allergic diseases. Harnessing the immunomodulatory potential of lactoferrin could provide a novel add-on approach to managing allergic diseases in children, offering hope for improved outcomes and an enhanced quality of life for paediatric patients and their families. As lactoferrin continues to capture the attention of researchers, its properties and diverse applications make it an intriguing subject of study with a rich history and a promising future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Gori
- Department of Mother-Child, Urological Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.B.)
| | - Giulia Brindisi
- Department of Mother-Child, Urological Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.B.)
| | - Maria Daglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.); (A.D.M.); (H.U.)
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Michele Miraglia del Giudice
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.M.d.G.); (G.D.); (C.I.)
| | - Giulio Dinardo
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.M.d.G.); (G.D.); (C.I.)
| | - Alessandro Di Minno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.); (A.D.M.); (H.U.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Drago
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology & Microbiome, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- UOC Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, MultiLab Department, IRCCS Multimedica, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristiana Indolfi
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.M.d.G.); (G.D.); (C.I.)
| | - Matteo Naso
- Allergy Center, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.N.); (C.T.)
| | - Chiara Trincianti
- Allergy Center, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (M.N.); (C.T.)
| | - Enrico Tondina
- Pediatric Clinic, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | | | - Hammad Ullah
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.); (A.D.M.); (H.U.)
| | - Attilio Varricchio
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Giorgio Ciprandi
- Allergy Clinic, Casa di Cura Villa Montallegro, 16145 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Anna Maria Zicari
- Department of Mother-Child, Urological Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.B.)
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8
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Younes S. The role of nutrition on the treatment of Covid 19. HUMAN NUTRITION & METABOLISM 2024; 36:200255. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hnm.2024.200255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
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9
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Gaweł P, Łukianowski B, Kościelska-Kasprzak K, Bartoszek D, Krajewska M, Królak-Olejnik B. Colostrum Lactoferrin Following Active and Recovered SARS-CoV-2 Infections during Pregnancy. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1120. [PMID: 38791082 PMCID: PMC11118264 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), which is particularly abundant in human breast milk during the early stages of lactation, provides protection against a variety of infections, including viral infections, and has demonstrated activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The objective of this study was to measure the concentrations of Lf in the colostrum of mothers with active coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections during delivery, in mothers with a history of COVID-19 during pregnancy, and in non-infected controls. In this cross-sectional study, colostrum samples from 41 lactating mothers with a confirmed history of SARS-CoV-2 infection (asymptomatic or symptomatic) (both active and past infections) were collected. Twenty-eight colostrum samples collected during the pre-pandemic period served as a control group. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to analyze the Lf concentrations. Concentrations of Lf in the colostrum samples were closely related to virus infection. Colostrum samples from mothers with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections contained higher concentrations of lactoferrin compared with samples from mothers from the control group. The highest concentrations of Lf were found in the colostrum samples of mothers with active SARS-CoV-2 infection during delivery when compared with the post-infection and control samples. This observed increase in lactoferrin suggests that it may be an important protective factor for breastfed infants, a finding which was particularly relevant during the pandemic period and remains relevant whenever a breastfeeding mother is infected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Gaweł
- Department of Neonatology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Błażej Łukianowski
- Department of Pathomorphology and Clinical Cytology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Kościelska-Kasprzak
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (K.K.-K.); (D.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Dorota Bartoszek
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (K.K.-K.); (D.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Magdalena Krajewska
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (K.K.-K.); (D.B.); (M.K.)
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10
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Pereira TA, Espósito BP. Can iron chelators ameliorate viral infections? Biometals 2024; 37:289-304. [PMID: 38019378 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-023-00558-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The redox reactivity of iron is a double-edged sword for cell functions, being either essential or harmful depending on metal concentration and location. Deregulation of iron homeostasis is associated with several clinical conditions, including viral infections. Clinical studies as well as in silico, in vitro and in vivo models show direct effects of several viruses on iron levels. There is support for the strategy of iron chelation as an alternative therapy to inhibit infection and/or viral replication, on the rationale that iron is required for the synthesis of some viral proteins and genes. In addition, abnormal iron levels can affect signaling immune response. However, other studies report different effects of viral infections on iron homeostasis, depending on the class and genotype of the virus, therefore making it difficult to predict whether iron chelation would have any benefit. This review brings general aspects of the relationship between iron homeostasis and the nonspecific immune response to viral infections, along with its relevance to the progress or inhibition of the inflammatory process, in order to elucidate situations in which the use of iron chelators could be efficient as antivirals.
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11
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Rizzi M, Avellis V, Messina A, Germano C, Tavella E, Dodaro V, Vitale R, Revelli A, Zola P, Picone S, Paolillo PM, Mondì V, Masturzo B, Manzoni P, Sainaghi PP. Vitamin D Supplementation in Neonatal and Infant MIS-C Following COVID-19 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3712. [PMID: 38612523 PMCID: PMC11011671 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073712] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
To date, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic still represents a great clinical challenge worldwide, and effective anti-COVID-19 drugs are limited. For this reason, nutritional supplements have been investigated as adjuvant therapeutic approaches in disease management. Among such supplements, vitamin D has gained great interest, due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory actions both in adult and pediatric populations. Even if there is conflicting evidence about its prevention and/or mitigation effectiveness in SARS-CoV-2 infection, several studies demonstrated a strict correlation between hypovitaminosis D and disease severity in acute COVID-19 and MIS-C (multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children). This narrative review offers a resume of the state of the art about vitamin D's role in immunity and its clinical use in the context of the current pandemic, specially focusing on pediatric manifestations and MIS-C. It seems biologically reasonable that interventions aimed at normalizing circulating vitamin D levels could be beneficial. To help clinicians in establishing the correct prophylaxis and/or supportive therapy with vitamin D, well-designed and adequately statistically powered clinical trials involving both adult and pediatric populations are needed. Moreover, this review will also discuss the few other nutraceuticals evaluated in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences (DiSS), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Avellis
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Alessandro Messina
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Chiara Germano
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
- Department of Maternal, Neonatal and Infant Medicine, University Hospital “Degli Infermi”, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Elena Tavella
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Valentina Dodaro
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Raffaele Vitale
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Paolo Zola
- School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
| | - Simonetta Picone
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Policlinico Casilino, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Pier Michele Paolillo
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Policlinico Casilino, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Vito Mondì
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Policlinico Casilino, 00169 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
- Department of Maternal, Neonatal and Infant Medicine, University Hospital “Degli Infermi”, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Manzoni
- Sant’Anna Hospital, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy (B.M.)
- Department of Maternal, Neonatal and Infant Medicine, University Hospital “Degli Infermi”, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- IRCAD (Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine (DiMeT), Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
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12
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Liao Z, Wang C, Tang X, Yang M, Duan Z, Liu L, Lu S, Ma L, Cheng R, Wang G, Liu H, Yang S, Xu J, Tadese DA, Mwangi J, Kamau PM, Zhang Z, Yang L, Liao G, Zhao X, Peng X, Lai R. Human transferrin receptor can mediate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2317026121. [PMID: 38408250 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2317026121] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been detected in almost all organs of coronavirus disease-19 patients, although some organs do not express angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), a known receptor of SARS-CoV-2, implying the presence of alternative receptors and/or co-receptors. Here, we show that the ubiquitously distributed human transferrin receptor (TfR), which binds to diferric transferrin to traffic between membrane and endosome for the iron delivery cycle, can ACE2-independently mediate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Human, not mouse TfR, interacts with Spike protein with a high affinity (KD ~2.95 nM) to mediate SARS-CoV-2 endocytosis. TfR knock-down (TfR-deficiency is lethal) and overexpression inhibit and promote SARS-CoV-2 infection, respectively. Humanized TfR expression enables SARS-CoV-2 infection in baby hamster kidney cells and C57 mice, which are known to be insusceptible to the virus infection. Soluble TfR, Tf, designed peptides blocking TfR-Spike interaction and anti-TfR antibody show significant anti-COVID-19 effects in cell and monkey models. Collectively, this report indicates that TfR is a receptor/co-receptor of SARS-CoV-2 mediating SARS-CoV-2 entry and infectivity by likely using the TfR trafficking pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyi Liao
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chaoming Wang
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaopeng Tang
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Mengli Yang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Zilei Duan
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shuaiyao Lu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Lei Ma
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Ruomei Cheng
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Gan Wang
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Hongqi Liu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jingwen Xu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Dawit Adisu Tadese
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - James Mwangi
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peter Muiruri Kamau
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhiye Zhang
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Lian Yang
- Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650204, China
| | - Guoyang Liao
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaozhong Peng
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Ren Lai
- Engineering Laboratory of Peptides of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology-Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), and Sino-African Joint Research Center, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
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13
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Pasinato A, Fama M, Tripepi G, Egan CG, Baraldi E. Lactoferrin in the Prevention of Recurrent Respiratory Infections in Preschool Children: A Prospective Randomized Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:249. [PMID: 38397361 PMCID: PMC10887729 DOI: 10.3390/children11020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Few studies have evaluated the effect of bovine lactoferrin (bLf) on reducing respiratory infections in preschool children. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effect of bLf in preschool children with recurrent respiratory infections. Participants were randomly assigned bLf (n = 25) or control (n = 25). Outcomes included respiratory infection episodes (RIEs), symptom duration, school absence and medication. Fifty children aged 4.2 ± 0.1 years were included. During the active 4-month phase, median number of RIEs was reduced by 50% in the bLf group [1-episode, interquartile range (IQR): 0-2] vs. control (2, IQR: 1-3; p = 0.02). The proportion of participants with >3 RIEs was significantly lower in bLf (n = 1, 4%) vs. control (n = 7, 28%) with 80% lower odds of upper RIEs in the bLf arm (odds ratio: 0.20, 95% CI:0.06-0.74, p = 0.015). The duration of symptoms (3 vs. 6, p = 0.009) and days absent from school (3 vs. 6, p = 0.15) were lower in the active arm. Over the 2-month follow-up, no significant differences were observed between groups for infection episodes, symptom duration or school absence. However, bLf-treated children received significantly less corticosteroids over the entire 6-month study period (32% vs. 60%; p = 0.047). bLf supplementation significantly reduced the frequency and duration of RIEs in children with decreased corticosteroid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Pasinato
- Società Italiana Cure Pediatriche Primarie (SICuPP), Veneto Region, 20126 Milano, Italy; (A.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Mario Fama
- Società Italiana Cure Pediatriche Primarie (SICuPP), Veneto Region, 20126 Milano, Italy; (A.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Giovanni Tripepi
- National Research Council (CNR), Ospedali Riuniti, 89124 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | | | - Eugenio Baraldi
- Dipartimento di Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
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14
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Santos I, Silva M, Grácio M, Pedroso L, Lima A. Milk Antiviral Proteins and Derived Peptides against Zoonoses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1842. [PMID: 38339120 PMCID: PMC10855762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031842] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Milk is renowned for its nutritional richness but also serves as a remarkable reservoir of bioactive compounds, particularly milk proteins and their derived peptides. Recent studies have showcased several robust antiviral activities of these proteins, evidencing promising potential within zoonotic viral diseases. While several publications focus on milk's bioactivities, antiviral peptides remain largely neglected in reviews. This knowledge is critical for identifying novel research directions and analyzing potential nutraceuticals within the One Health context. Our review aims to gather the existing scientific information on milk-derived antiviral proteins and peptides against several zoonotic viral diseases, and their possible mechanisms. Overall, in-depth research has increasingly revealed them as a promising and novel strategy against viruses, principally for those constituting a plausible pandemic threat. The underlying mechanisms of the bioactivity of milk's proteins include inhibiting viral entry and attachment to the host cells, blocking replication, or even viral inactivation via peptide-membrane interactions. Their marked versatility and effectiveness stand out compared to other antiviral peptides and can support future research and development in the post-COVID-19 era. Overall, our review helps to emphasize the importance of potentially effective milk-derived peptides, and their significance for veterinary and human medicines, along with the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and dairy industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Santos
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 376 Campo Grande, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.S.); (L.P.)
- CECAV—Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mariana Silva
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 376 Campo Grande, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.S.); (L.P.)
| | - Madalena Grácio
- Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Laurentina Pedroso
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 376 Campo Grande, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.S.); (L.P.)
- CECAV—Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Lima
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 376 Campo Grande, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.S.); (L.P.)
- CECAV—Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
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15
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Ashraf MF, Zubair D, Bashir MN, Alagawany M, Ahmed S, Shah QA, Buzdar JA, Arain MA. Nutraceutical and Health-Promoting Potential of Lactoferrin, an Iron-Binding Protein in Human and Animal: Current Knowledge. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:56-72. [PMID: 37059920 PMCID: PMC10104436 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03658-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Lactoferrin is a natural cationic iron-binding glycoprotein of the transferrin family found in bovine milk and other exocrine secretions, including lacrimal fluid, saliva, and bile. Lactoferrin has been investigated for its numerous powerful influences, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-osteoporotic, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, and other beneficial health effects. Lactoferrin demonstrated several nutraceutical and pharmaceutical potentials and have a significant impact on improving the health of humans and animals. Lactoferrin plays a critical role in keeping the normal physiological homeostasis associated with the development of pathological disorders. The current review highlights the medicinal value, nutraceutical role, therapeutic application, and outstanding favorable health sides of lactoferrin, which would benefit from more exploration of this glycoprotein for the design of effective medicines, drugs, and pharmaceuticals for safeguarding different health issues in animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dawood Zubair
- Iqraa Medical Complex, Johar Town Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | | | - Mahmoud Alagawany
- Poultry Department, Agriculture Faculty, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
| | - Shabbir Ahmed
- Faculty of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Qurban Ali Shah
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, 3800, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Jameel Ahmed Buzdar
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, 3800, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Arain
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, 3800, Balochistan, Pakistan.
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16
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Dwivedi M, Parmar MD, Mukherjee D, Yadava A, Yadav H, Saini NP. Biochemistry, Mechanistic Intricacies, and Therapeutic Potential of Antimicrobial Peptides: An Alternative to Traditional Antibiotics. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:6110-6139. [PMID: 37818561 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673268458230926105224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant strains of pathogens becomes a major obstacle to treating human diseases. Antibiotics and antivirals are in the application for a long time but now these drugs are not much effective anymore against disease-causing drugresistant microbes and gradually it is becoming a serious complication worldwide. The development of new antibiotics cannot be a stable solution to treat drug-resistant strains due to their evolving nature and escaping antibiotics. At this stage, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) may provide us with novel therapeutic leads against drug-resistant pathogens. Structurally, antimicrobial peptides are mostly α-helical peptide molecules with amphiphilic properties that carry the positive charge (cationic) and belong to host defense peptides. These positively charged AMPs can interact with negatively charged bacterial cell membranes and may cause the alteration in electrochemical potential on bacterial cell membranes and consequently lead to the death of microbial cells. In the present study, we will elaborate on the implication of AMPs in the treatment of various diseases along with their specific structural and functional properties. This review will provide information which assists in the development of new synthetic peptide analogues to natural AMPs. These analogues will eliminate the limitations of natural AMPs like toxicity and severe hemolytic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Dwivedi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Meet Dineshbhai Parmar
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Research, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Anuradha Yadava
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Hitendra Yadav
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Nandini Pankaj Saini
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, 226028, India
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17
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Cutone A, Musci G, Bonaccorsi di Patti MC. Lactoferrin, the Moonlighting Protein of Innate Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15888. [PMID: 37958871 PMCID: PMC10650585 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115888] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), a naturally occurring glycoprotein involved in innate immunity, was first discovered in bovine milk [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Antimo Cutone
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (A.C.); (G.M.)
| | - Giovanni Musci
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (A.C.); (G.M.)
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18
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Luan Y, Luan Y, He H, Jue B, Yang Y, Qin B, Ren K. Glucose metabolism disorder: a potential accomplice of SARS-CoV-2. Int J Obes (Lond) 2023; 47:893-902. [PMID: 37542197 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-023-01352-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Globally, 265,713,467 confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 (CoV-2), including 5,260,888 deaths, have been reported by the WHO. It is important to study the mechanism of this infectious disease. A variety of evidences show the potential association between CoV-2 and glucose metabolism. Notably, people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other metabolic complications were prone to have a higher risk of developing a more severe infection course than people who were metabolically normal. The correlations between glucose metabolism and CoV-2 progression have been widely revealed. This review will discuss the association between glucose metabolism disorders and CoV-2 progression, showing the promoting effect of diabetes and other diseases related to glucose metabolism disorders on the progression of CoV-2. We will further conclude the effects of key proteins and pathways in glucose metabolism regulation on CoV-2 progression and potential interventions by targeting glucose metabolism disorders for CoV-2 treatment. Therefore, this review will provide systematic insight into the treatment of CoV-2 from the perspective of glucose metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Luan
- Department of Translational Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ying Luan
- State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Hongbo He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Bolin Jue
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453000, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Translational Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Bo Qin
- Department of Translational Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Kaidi Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Henan Key Laboratory of Precision Clinical Pharmacy, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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19
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Alves NS, Azevedo AS, Dias BM, Horbach IS, Setatino BP, Denani CB, Schwarcz WD, Lima SMB, Missailidis S, Ano Bom APD, Silva AMV, Barreto Vieira DF, Silva MAN, Barros CA, Carvalho CAM, Gonçalves RB. Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Vero Cells by Bovine Lactoferrin under Different Iron-Saturation States. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1352. [PMID: 37895823 PMCID: PMC10609673 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the rapid mass vaccination against COVID-19, the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, such as omicron, is still a great distress, and new therapeutic options are needed. Bovine lactoferrin (bLf), a multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein available in unsaturated (apo-bLf) and saturated (holo-bLf) forms, has been shown to exert broad-spectrum antiviral activity against many viruses. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of both forms of bLf at 1 mg/mL against infection of Vero cells by SARS-CoV-2. As assessed with antiviral assays, an equivalent significant reduction in virus infection by about 70% was observed when either form of bLf was present throughout the infection procedure with the SARS-CoV-2 ancestral or omicron strain. This inhibitory effect seemed to be concentrated during the early steps of virus infection, since a significant reduction in its efficiency by about 60% was observed when apo- or holo-bLf were incubated with the cells before or during virus addition, with no significant difference between the antiviral effects of the distinct iron-saturation states of the protein. However, an ultrastructural analysis of bLf treatment during the early steps of virus infection revealed that holo-bLf was somewhat more effective than apo-bLf in inhibiting virus entry. Together, these data suggest that bLf mainly acts in the early events of SARS-CoV-2 infection and is effective against the ancestral virus as well as its omicron variant. Considering that there are no effective treatments to COVID-19 with tolerable toxicity yet, bLf shows up as a promising candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia S. Alves
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Adriana S. Azevedo
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Brenda M. Dias
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Ingrid S. Horbach
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Bruno P. Setatino
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Caio B. Denani
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Waleska D. Schwarcz
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Sheila Maria B. Lima
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Sotiris Missailidis
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Ana Paula D. Ano Bom
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Andréa M. V. Silva
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (N.S.A.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.D.); (I.S.H.); (B.P.S.); (C.B.D.); (W.D.S.); (S.M.B.L.); (S.M.); (A.P.D.A.B.); (A.M.V.S.)
| | - Débora F. Barreto Vieira
- Laboratório de Morfologia e Morfogênese Viral, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (D.F.B.V.); (M.A.N.S.)
| | - Marcos Alexandre N. Silva
- Laboratório de Morfologia e Morfogênese Viral, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (D.F.B.V.); (M.A.N.S.)
| | - Caroline A. Barros
- Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil;
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20270-021, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos Alberto M. Carvalho
- Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Pará, Belém 66095-662, PA, Brazil
| | - Rafael B. Gonçalves
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20211-040, RJ, Brazil;
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20
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El-Fakharany EM, El-Maradny YA, Ashry M, Abdel-Wahhab KG, Shabana ME, El-Gendi H. Green synthesis, characterization, anti-SARS-CoV-2 entry, and replication of lactoferrin-coated zinc nanoparticles with halting lung fibrosis induced in adult male albino rats. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15921. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-42702-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe ethanolic extract of Coleus forskohlii Briq leaves was employed in the green synthesis of zinc nanoparticles (Zn-NPs) by an immediate, one-step, and cost-effective method in the present study. Zn-NPs were coated with purified bovine lactoferrin (LF) and characterized through different instrumental analysis. The biosynthesized Zn-NPs were white in color revealing oval to spherical-shaped particles with an average size of 77 ± 5.50 nm, whereas LF-coated Zn-NPs (LF-Zn-NPs) revealed a larger particles size of up to 98 ± 6.40 nm. The biosynthesized Zn-NPs and LF-Zn-NPs revealed negatively charged surfaces with zeta-potentials of – 20.25 ± 0.35 and – 44.3 ± 3.25 mV, respectively. Interestingly, the LF-Zn-NPs showed potent in vitro retardation for SARS-CoV-2 entry to host cells by binding to the ACE2-receptor and spike protein receptor binding domain at IC50 values of 59.66 and μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, the results indicated the ability of LF-Zn-NPs to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication by interfering with RNA-dependent RNA polymerase “RdRp” activity at IC50 of 49.23 μg/mL. In vivo, the LF-Zn-NPs displayed a protective and therapeutic activity against induced pulmonary fibrosis in Bleomycin-treated male albino rats owing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and significant reduction in CRP, LDH, ferritin, and D-dimer levels. The obtained findings offer a promising route for biosynthesized Zn-NPs and LF-Zn-NPs as promising candidates against COVID-19.
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21
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El-Fakharany EM, El-Maradny YA, Ashry M, Abdel-Wahhab KG, Shabana ME, El-Gendi H. Green synthesis, characterization, anti-SARS-CoV-2 entry, and replication of lactoferrin-coated zinc nanoparticles with halting lung fibrosis induced in adult male albino rats. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15921. [PMID: 37741872 PMCID: PMC10518009 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42702-0] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The ethanolic extract of Coleus forskohlii Briq leaves was employed in the green synthesis of zinc nanoparticles (Zn-NPs) by an immediate, one-step, and cost-effective method in the present study. Zn-NPs were coated with purified bovine lactoferrin (LF) and characterized through different instrumental analysis. The biosynthesized Zn-NPs were white in color revealing oval to spherical-shaped particles with an average size of 77 ± 5.50 nm, whereas LF-coated Zn-NPs (LF-Zn-NPs) revealed a larger particles size of up to 98 ± 6.40 nm. The biosynthesized Zn-NPs and LF-Zn-NPs revealed negatively charged surfaces with zeta-potentials of - 20.25 ± 0.35 and - 44.3 ± 3.25 mV, respectively. Interestingly, the LF-Zn-NPs showed potent in vitro retardation for SARS-CoV-2 entry to host cells by binding to the ACE2-receptor and spike protein receptor binding domain at IC50 values of 59.66 and μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, the results indicated the ability of LF-Zn-NPs to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication by interfering with RNA-dependent RNA polymerase "RdRp" activity at IC50 of 49.23 μg/mL. In vivo, the LF-Zn-NPs displayed a protective and therapeutic activity against induced pulmonary fibrosis in Bleomycin-treated male albino rats owing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and significant reduction in CRP, LDH, ferritin, and D-dimer levels. The obtained findings offer a promising route for biosynthesized Zn-NPs and LF-Zn-NPs as promising candidates against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmail M El-Fakharany
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City, Alexandria, 21934, Egypt.
| | - Yousra A El-Maradny
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City, Alexandria, 21934, Egypt
- Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), Alamein, 51718, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Ashry
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assuit, Egypt
| | | | | | - Hamada El-Gendi
- Bioprocess Development Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City, Alexandria, 21934, Egypt
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22
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Darmawan KK, Karagiannis TC, Hughes JG, Small DM, Hung A. Molecular insights into the interaction of apo-lactoferrin with the receptor binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein: a molecular dynamics simulation study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:7372-7385. [PMID: 36093960 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2121759] [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: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
LF is a bioactive protein, derived from colostrum and milk that has been found to possess various immunomodulatory, iron chelating, and antimicrobial properties, especially in its apo-form. Recent studies have demonstrated the functionality of LF in attaching to the S proteins of SARS-CoV-2, thereby preventing it from interacting with the ACE-2 receptor. However, the molecular mechanism mediating the process is poorly understood. In this study, molecular docking and MD simulations coupled with free energy calculations were applied to elucidate the key interaction of apo-LF and its N-lobe and C-lobe derivative forms with the RBD of coronavirus S proteins. This has also been extended into evaluating the L452R mutant, which is associated with the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. The results demonstrate the efficacy of the apo-LF C-lobe in binding to the RBD of both variants, primarily through electrostatic attractions between the acidic residues of the former and the basic residues of each RBD. Furthermore, due to the additional arginine in the L452R variant, the interaction between the C-lobe and the latter is stronger, resulting in a more favourable binding and tightly bound structure. The simulations highlight that the C-lobe, followed by full-length apo-LF can form a multimeric complex with the RBD of SARS-CoV-2, indicating their potential use as novel therapeutics, particularly the cleaved C-lobe of apo-LF to disrupt the S proteins from binding to the host ACE-2 receptor.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevion K Darmawan
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tom C Karagiannis
- Epigenomic Medicine, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Alfred Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeff G Hughes
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Darryl M Small
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Hung
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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23
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El-Fakharany EM, El-Gendi H, El-Maradny YA, Abu-Serie MM, Abdel-Wahhab KG, Shabana ME, Ashry M. Inhibitory effect of lactoferrin-coated zinc nanoparticles on SARS-CoV-2 replication and entry along with improvement of lung fibrosis induced in adult male albino rats. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 245:125552. [PMID: 37356684 PMCID: PMC10290166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125552] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome 2019-new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a major global challenge caused by a pandemic disease, named 'COVID-19' with no effective and selective therapy available so far. COVID-19-associated mortality is directly related to the inability to suppress the viral infection and the uncontrolled inflammatory response. So, we investigated the antiviral efficiency of the nanofabricated and well-characterized lactoferrin-coated zinc nanoparticles (Lf-Zn-NPs) on SARS-CoV-2 replication and entry into host cells. Lf-Zn-NPs showed potent inhibition of the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the host cells by inhibition of ACE2, the SARS-CoV-2 receptor. This inhibitory activity of Lf-Zn-NPs to target the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the ACE2 receptor offers potent protection against COVID-19 outbreaks. Moreover, the administration of Lf-Zn-NPs markedly improved lung fibrosis disorders, as supported by histopathological findings and monitored by the significant reduction in the values of CRP, LDH, ferritin, and D-dimer, with a remarkable rise in CD4+, lung SOD, GPx, GSH, and CAT levels. Lf-Zn-NPs revealed therapeutic efficiency against lung fibrosis owing to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and ACE2-inhibiting activities. These findings suggest a promising nanomedicine agent against COVID-19 and its complications, with improved antiviral and immunomodulatory properties as well as a safer mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmail M El-Fakharany
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA- City), New Borg El-Arab City 21934, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Hamada El-Gendi
- Bioprocess Development Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City 21934, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Yousra A El-Maradny
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA- City), New Borg El-Arab City 21934, Alexandria, Egypt; Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), Alamein 51718, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | | | - Mahmoud Ashry
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assuit, Egypt
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24
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Chanda BM, Chen XQ. Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1120763. [PMID: 37342530 PMCID: PMC10277472 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1120763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused many significant changes to all aspects of day to day life. The disease has spread and reached pandemic proportions. The principle route of transmission is the respiratory route. Infants, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers have all been affected. Many interventions and guidelines from important societies have been instituted in order to curb the transmission of the disease. These have involved both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. COVID-19 vaccines have also emerged as important methods of primary prevention of the disease. But several questions have been raised concerning the safety and efficacy of their use in pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. It has also not been clear if the vaccines are effective in generating a robust immune response in the pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers to confer passive immunity to the fetuses and infants, respectively. And they have not been tested in infants. The aspect of infant feeding has equally been affected. Although breast milk has not been known to serve as the vehicle of transmission of the virus, there is still some lack of uniformity of practice regarding breastfeeding when a mother has SARS-CoV-2 infection. This has led to infant feeding being done by the use of commercial formula feeds, pasteurized human donor breast milk, feeding on the mother's own expressed breast milk by a care giver and directly breastfeeding with skin to skin contact. This is despite breast milk being the most physiologically appropriate type of feed for infants. Therefore the pertinent question remains; should breastfeeding continue during the pandemic continue? This review also seeks to analyse the vast amount of scientific information regarding the subject and to synthesize science-based information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bwalya Mpelwa Chanda
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, First Affiliation Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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25
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Singh P, Hernandez‐Rauda R, Peña‐Rodas O. Preventative and therapeutic potential of animal milk components against COVID-19: A comprehensive review. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:2547-2579. [PMID: 37324885 PMCID: PMC10261805 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The global pandemic of COVID-19 is considered one of the most catastrophic events on earth. During the pandemic, food ingredients may play crucial roles in preventing infectious diseases and sustaining people's general health and well-being. Animal milk acts as a super food since it has the capacity to minimize the occurrence of viral infections due to inherent antiviral properties of its ingredients. SARS-CoV-2 virus infection can be prevented by immune-enhancing and antiviral properties of caseins, α-lactalbumin, β-lactoglobulin, mucin, lactoferrin, lysozyme, lactoperoxidase, oligosaccharides, glycosaminoglycans, and glycerol monolaurate. Some of the milk proteins (i.e., lactoferrin) may work synergistically with antiviral medications (e.g., remdesivir), and enhance the effectiveness of treatment in this disease. Cytokine storm during COVID-19 can be managed by casein hydrolyzates, lactoferrin, lysozyme, and lactoperoxidase. Thrombus formation can be prevented by casoplatelins as these can inhibit human platelet aggregation. Milk vitamins (i.e., A, D, E, and B complexes) and minerals (i.e., Ca, P, Mg, Zn, and Se) can have significantly positive effects on boosting the immunity and health status of individuals. In addition, certain vitamins and minerals can also act as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antivirals. Thus, the overall effect of milk might be a result of synergistic antiviral effects and host immunomodulator activities from multiple components. Due to multiple overlapping functions of milk ingredients, they can play vital and synergistic roles in prevention as well as supportive agents during principle therapy of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parminder Singh
- Department of Animal Husbandry AmritsarGovernment of PunjabAmritsarIndia
| | - Roberto Hernandez‐Rauda
- Laboratorio de Inocuidad de AlimentosUniversidad Doctor Andres BelloSan SalvadorEl Salvador, América Central
| | - Oscar Peña‐Rodas
- Laboratorio de Inocuidad de AlimentosUniversidad Doctor Andres BelloSan SalvadorEl Salvador, América Central
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26
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Sokolov AV, Isakova-Sivak IN, Mezhenskaya DA, Kostevich VA, Gorbunov NP, Elizarova AY, Matyushenko VA, Berson YM, Grudinina NA, Kolmakov NN, Zabrodskaya YA, Komlev AS, Semak IV, Budevich AI, Rudenko LG, Vasilyev VB. Molecular mimicry of the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein: from the interaction of spike-specific antibodies with transferrin and lactoferrin to the antiviral effects of human recombinant lactoferrin. Biometals 2023; 36:437-462. [PMID: 36334191 PMCID: PMC9638208 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-022-00458-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection involves dysregulations of iron metabolism, and although the mechanism of this pathology is not yet fully understood, correction of iron metabolism pathways seems a promising pharmacological target. The previously observed effect of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection by ferristatin II, an inducer of transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) degradation, prompted the study of competition between Spike protein and TfR1 ligands, especially lactoferrin (Lf) and transferrin (Tf). We hypothesized molecular mimicry of Spike protein as cross-reactivity of Spike-specific antibodies with Tf and Lf. Thus, strong positive correlations (R2 > 0.95) were found between the level of Spike-specific IgG antibodies present in serum samples of COVID-19-recovered and Sputnik V-vaccinated individuals and their Tf-binding activity assayed with peroxidase-labeled anti-Tf. In addition, we observed cross-reactivity of Lf-specific murine monoclonal antibody (mAb) towards the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. On the other hand, the interaction of mAbs produced to the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the Spike protein with recombinant RBD protein was disrupted by Tf, Lf, soluble TfR1, anti-TfR1 aptamer, as well as by peptides RGD and GHAIYPRH. Furthermore, direct interaction of RBD protein with Lf, but not Tf, was observed, with affinity of binding estimated by KD to be 23 nM and 16 nM for apo-Lf and holo-Lf, respectively. Treatment of Vero E6 cells with apo-Lf and holo-Lf (1-4 mg/mL) significantly inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication of both Wuhan and Delta lineages. Protective effects of Lf on different arms of SARS-CoV-2-induced pathogenesis and possible consequences of cross-reactivity of Spike-specific antibodies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Sokolov
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia.
| | - I N Isakova-Sivak
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - D A Mezhenskaya
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - V A Kostevich
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - N P Gorbunov
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - A Yu Elizarova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - V A Matyushenko
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - Yu M Berson
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - N A Grudinina
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - N N Kolmakov
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - Y A Zabrodskaya
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, Russian Ministry of Health, Prof. Popova Str. 15/17, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
- Peter the Great Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University, 29 Ulitsa Polytechnicheskaya, 194064, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - A S Komlev
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - I V Semak
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, Belarusian State University, Nezavisimisty Ave. 4, 220030, Minsk, Belarus
| | - A I Budevich
- Scientific and Practical Center of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus for Animal Breeding, 11 Frunze Str., 222160, Zhodino, Belarus
| | - L G Rudenko
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
| | - V B Vasilyev
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academica Pavlova Str. 12, St. Petersburg, 197376, Russia
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27
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Liu WJ, Chang YS, Tseng KC, Yu MH. Activity of bovine lactoferrin in resistance to white spot syndrome virus infection in shrimp. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 142:104651. [PMID: 36736936 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2023.104651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is a notorious pathogen that has plagued shrimp farming worldwide for decades. To date, there are no known treatments that are effective against this virus. Lactoferrin (LF) is a protein with many bioactivities, including antiviral properties. In this study, the activities and mechanisms of bovine LF (bLF) against WSSV were analyzed. Our results showed that bLF treatment significantly reduced shrimp mortalities caused by WSSV infection. bLF was found to have the ability to bind to surfaces of both host cells and WSSV virions. These bindings may have been a result of bLF interactions with the host cellular chitin binding protein and F1 ATP synthase β subunit protein and the WSSV structural proteins VP28, VP110, VP150 and VP160B. bLF demonstrated potential for development as an anti-WSSV agent in shrimp culture. Furthermore, these reactionary proteins may play a role in WSSV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Jing Liu
- Department of Earth and Life Science, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Yun-Shiang Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Da-Yeh University, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Kou-Chun Tseng
- Department of Earth and Life Science, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hua Yu
- Department of Earth and Life Science, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
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Ohradanova-Repic A, Praženicová R, Gebetsberger L, Moskalets T, Skrabana R, Cehlar O, Tajti G, Stockinger H, Leksa V. Time to Kill and Time to Heal: The Multifaceted Role of Lactoferrin and Lactoferricin in Host Defense. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1056. [PMID: 37111542 PMCID: PMC10146187 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein present in most human exocrine fluids, particularly breast milk. Lactoferrin is also released from neutrophil granules, and its concentration increases rapidly at the site of inflammation. Immune cells of both the innate and the adaptive immune system express receptors for lactoferrin to modulate their functions in response to it. On the basis of these interactions, lactoferrin plays many roles in host defense, ranging from augmenting or calming inflammatory pathways to direct killing of pathogens. Complex biological activities of lactoferrin are determined by its ability to sequester iron and by its highly basic N-terminus, via which lactoferrin binds to a plethora of negatively charged surfaces of microorganisms and viruses, as well as to mammalian cells, both normal and cancerous. Proteolytic cleavage of lactoferrin in the digestive tract generates smaller peptides, such as N-terminally derived lactoferricin. Lactoferricin shares some of the properties of lactoferrin, but also exhibits unique characteristics and functions. In this review, we discuss the structure, functions, and potential therapeutic uses of lactoferrin, lactoferricin, and other lactoferrin-derived bioactive peptides in treating various infections and inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, we summarize clinical trials examining the effect of lactoferrin supplementation in disease treatment, with a special focus on its potential use in treating COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ohradanova-Repic
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Romana Praženicová
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Laura Gebetsberger
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Tetiana Moskalets
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Rostislav Skrabana
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ondrej Cehlar
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Gabor Tajti
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hannes Stockinger
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Vladimir Leksa
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 51 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Regueiro U, López-López M, Varela-Fernández R, Otero-Espinar FJ, Lema I. Biomedical Applications of Lactoferrin on the Ocular Surface. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030865. [PMID: 36986726 PMCID: PMC10052036 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a first-line defense protein with a pleiotropic functional pattern that includes anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and antitumoral properties. Remarkably, this iron-binding glycoprotein promotes iron retention, restricting free radical production and avoiding oxidative damage and inflammation. On the ocular surface, LF is released from corneal epithelial cells and lacrimal glands, representing a significant percentage of the total tear fluid proteins. Due to its multifunctionality, the availability of LF may be limited in several ocular disorders. Consequently, to reinforce the action of this highly beneficial glycoprotein on the ocular surface, LF has been proposed for the treatment of different conditions such as dry eye, keratoconus, conjunctivitis, and viral or bacterial ocular infections, among others. In this review, we outline the structure and the biological functions of LF, its relevant role at the ocular surface, its implication in LF-related ocular surface disorders, and its potential for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uxía Regueiro
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maite López-López
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rubén Varela-Fernández
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Otero-Espinar
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Institute of Materials (iMATUS), University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.J.O.-E.); (I.L.)
| | - Isabel Lema
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Galician Institute of Ophthalmology (INGO), Conxo Provincial Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.J.O.-E.); (I.L.)
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30
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Matino E, Tavella E, Rizzi M, Avanzi GC, Azzolina D, Battaglia A, Becco P, Bellan M, Bertinieri G, Bertoletti M, Casciaro GF, Castello LM, Colageo U, Colangelo D, Comolli D, Costanzo M, Croce A, D’Onghia D, Della Corte F, De Mitri L, Dodaro V, Givone F, Gravina A, Grillenzoni L, Gusmaroli G, Landi R, Lingua A, Manzoni R, Marinoni V, Masturzo B, Minisini R, Morello M, Nelva A, Ortone E, Paolella R, Patti G, Pedrinelli A, Pirisi M, Ravizzi L, Rizzi E, Sola D, Sola M, Tonello N, Tonello S, Topazzo G, Tua A, Valenti P, Vaschetto R, Vassia V, Zecca E, Zublena N, Manzoni P, Sainaghi PP. Effect of Lactoferrin on Clinical Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: The LAC Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients 2023; 15:1285. [PMID: 36904283 PMCID: PMC10005739 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As lactoferrin is a nutritional supplement with proven antiviral and immunomodulatory abilities, it may be used to improve the clinical course of COVID-19. The clinical efficacy and safety of bovine lactoferrin were evaluated in the LAC randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. A total of 218 hospitalized adult patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 were randomized to receive 800 mg/die oral bovine lactoferrin (n = 113) or placebo (n = 105), both given in combination with standard COVID-19 therapy. No differences in lactoferrin vs. placebo were observed in the primary outcomes: the proportion of death or intensive care unit admission (risk ratio of 1.06 (95% CI 0.63-1.79)) or proportion of discharge or National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) ≤ 2 within 14 days from enrollment (RR of 0.85 (95% CI 0.70-1.04)). Lactoferrin showed an excellent safety and tolerability profile. Even though bovine lactoferrin is safe and tolerable, our results do not support its use in hospitalized patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Matino
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Elena Tavella
- Department of Maternal-Infant Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Avanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Danila Azzolina
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Antonio Battaglia
- Division of Dermatology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Becco
- Division of Oncology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bertinieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Francesco Casciaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi Mario Castello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera “SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo”, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Umberto Colageo
- Intensive Care Unit, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide Comolli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Martina Costanzo
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Croce
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide D’Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Della Corte
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi De Mitri
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Valentina Dodaro
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Filippo Givone
- Division of Pneumology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Alessia Gravina
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Luca Grillenzoni
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Landi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Lingua
- Division of Infectious Disease, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Roberto Manzoni
- Division of Dermatology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Vito Marinoni
- Division of Geriatric Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Marina Morello
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Anna Nelva
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Elena Ortone
- Division of Geriatric Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Rita Paolella
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Patti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Medical Department, Division of Cardiology, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anita Pedrinelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Lidia Ravizzi
- Division of Pneumology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rizzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Daniele Sola
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mariolina Sola
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Nadir Tonello
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gigliola Topazzo
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Aldo Tua
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Vaschetto
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Veronica Vassia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Erika Zecca
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Zublena
- Division of Palliative Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Manzoni
- Department of Maternal-Infant Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
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Kaczyńska K, Jampolska M, Wojciechowski P, Sulejczak D, Andrzejewski K, Zając D. Potential of Lactoferrin in the Treatment of Lung Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:192. [PMID: 37259341 PMCID: PMC9960651 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein that exhibits a variety of properties, such as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer, that can be used to treat numerous diseases. Lung diseases continue to be the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Many of the therapies currently used to treat these diseases have limited efficacy or are associated with side effects. Therefore, there is a constant pursuit for new drugs and therapies, and LF is frequently considered a therapeutic agent and/or adjunct to drug-based therapies for the treatment of lung diseases. This article focuses on a review of the existing and most up-to-date literature on the contribution of the beneficial effects of LF on the treatment of lung diseases, including asthma, viral infections, cystic fibrosis, or lung cancer, among others. Although in vitro and in vivo studies indicate significant potency of LF in the treatment of the listed diseases, only in the case of respiratory tract infections do human studies seem to confirm them by demonstrating the effectiveness of LF in reducing episodes of illness and shortening the recovery period. For lung cancer, COVID-19 and sepsis, the reports are conflicting, and for other diseases, there is a paucity of human studies conclusively confirming the beneficial effects of LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kaczyńska
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Jampolska
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Wojciechowski
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Sulejczak
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kryspin Andrzejewski
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominika Zając
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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Cao X, Ren Y, Lu Q, Wang K, Wu Y, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Cui XS, Yang Z, Chen Z. Lactoferrin: A glycoprotein that plays an active role in human health. Front Nutr 2023; 9:1018336. [PMID: 36712548 PMCID: PMC9875800 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1018336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), existing widely in human and mammalian milk, is a multifunctional glycoprotein with many functions, such as immune regulation, anti-inflammation, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant. These extensive functions largely attribute to its ability to chelate iron and interfere with the cellular receptors of pathogenic microorganisms and their hosts. Moreover, it is non-toxic and has good compatibility with other supplements. Thus, Lf has been widely used in food nutrition, drug carriers, biotechnology, and feed development. Although Lf has been continuously explored and studied, a more comprehensive and systematic compendium is still required. This review presents the recent advances in the structure and physicochemical properties of Lf as well as clinical studies on human diseases, with the aim of providing a reference for further research of Lf and the development of its related functional products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yang Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qinyue Lu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yanni Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - YuHao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yihui Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Laboratory of Animal Developmental Biology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhangping Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China,International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Zhi Chen,
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Naidu SAG, Clemens RA, Naidu AS. SARS-CoV-2 Infection Dysregulates Host Iron (Fe)-Redox Homeostasis (Fe-R-H): Role of Fe-Redox Regulators, Ferroptosis Inhibitors, Anticoagulants, and Iron-Chelators in COVID-19 Control. J Diet Suppl 2023; 20:312-371. [PMID: 35603834 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2022.2075072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Severe imbalance in iron metabolism among SARS-CoV-2 infected patients is prominent in every symptomatic (mild, moderate to severe) clinical phase of COVID-19. Phase-I - Hypoxia correlates with reduced O2 transport by erythrocytes, overexpression of HIF-1α, altered mitochondrial bioenergetics with host metabolic reprogramming (HMR). Phase-II - Hyperferritinemia results from an increased iron overload, which triggers a fulminant proinflammatory response - the acute cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Elevated cytokine levels (i.e. IL6, TNFα and CRP) strongly correlates with altered ferritin/TF ratios in COVID-19 patients. Phase-III - Thromboembolism is consequential to erythrocyte dysfunction with heme release, increased prothrombin time and elevated D-dimers, cumulatively linked to severe coagulopathies with life-threatening outcomes such as ARDS, and multi-organ failure. Taken together, Fe-R-H dysregulation is implicated in every symptomatic phase of COVID-19. Fe-R-H regulators such as lactoferrin (LF), hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1), erythropoietin (EPO) and hepcidin modulators are innate bio-replenishments that sequester iron, neutralize iron-mediated free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and improve host defense by optimizing iron metabolism. Due to its pivotal role in 'cytokine storm', ferroptosis is a potential intervention target. Ferroptosis inhibitors such as ferrostatin-1, liproxstatin-1, quercetin, and melatonin could prevent mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, up-regulate antioxidant/GSH levels and abrogate iron overload-induced apoptosis through activation of Nrf2 and HO-1 signaling pathways. Iron chelators such as heparin, deferoxamine, caffeic acid, curcumin, α-lipoic acid, and phytic acid could protect against ferroptosis and restore mitochondrial function, iron-redox potential, and rebalance Fe-R-H status. Therefore, Fe-R-H restoration is a host biomarker-driven potential combat strategy for an effective clinical and post-recovery management of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roger A Clemens
- Department of International Regulatory Science, University of Southern California School of Pharmacy, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Bolat E, Eker F, Kaplan M, Duman H, Arslan A, Saritaş S, Şahutoğlu AS, Karav S. Lactoferrin for COVID-19 prevention, treatment, and recovery. Front Nutr 2022; 9:992733. [PMID: 36419551 PMCID: PMC9676636 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.992733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a unique beta-coronavirus, has caused the most serious outbreak of the last century at the global level. SARS-CoV-2 infections were firstly reported in the city of Wuhan in China in 2019 and this new disease was named COVID-19 by World Health Organization (WHO). As this novel disease can easily be transmitted from one individual to another via respiratory droplets, many nations around the world have taken several precautions regarding the reduction in social activities and quarantine for the limitation of the COVID-19 transmission. SARS-CoV-2 is known to cause complications that may include pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multi-organ failure, septic shock, and death. To prevent and treat COVID-19, some significant studies have been conducted since the outbreak. One of the most noticeable therapeutic approaches is related to a multifunctional protein, lactoferrin. Lactoferrin (Lf) is an 80 kDa cationic glycoprotein that has a great range of benefits from improving the immunity to antiviral effects due to its unique characteristics such as the iron-binding ability. This review summarizes the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and the potential applications of Lf for the prevention, treatment, and recovery of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ecem Bolat
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Furkan Eker
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Merve Kaplan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Hatice Duman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Ayşenur Arslan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Sümeyye Saritaş
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | | | - Sercan Karav
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
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Lactoferrin Binding to SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein Blocks Pseudoviral Entry and Relieves Iron Protein Dysregulation in Several In Vitro Models. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14102111. [PMID: 36297546 PMCID: PMC9612385 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19, a predominantly pulmonary disease characterized by a burst of pro-inflammatory cytokines and an increase in free iron. The viral glycoprotein Spike mediates fusion to the host cell membrane, but its role as a virulence factor is largely unknown. Recently, the antiviral activity of lactoferrin against SARS-CoV-2 was demonstrated in vitro and shown to occur via binding to cell surface receptors, and its putative interaction with Spike was suggested by in silico analyses. We investigated the anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of bovine and human lactoferrins in epithelial and macrophagic cells using a Spike-decorated pseudovirus. Lactoferrin inhibited pseudoviral fusion and counteracted the deleterious effects of Spike on iron and inflammatory homeostasis by restoring basal levels of iron-handling proteins and of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. Using pull-down assays, we experimentally proved for the first time that lactoferrin binds to Spike, immediately suggesting a mechanism for the observed effects. The contribution of transferrin receptor 1 to Spike-mediated cell fusion was also experimentally demonstrated. In silico analyses showed that lactoferrin interacts with transferrin receptor 1, suggesting a multifaceted mechanism of action for lactoferrin. Our results give hope for the use of bovine lactoferrin, already available as a nutraceutical, as an adjuvant to standard therapies in COVID-19.
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Lactoferrin as Possible Treatment for Chronic Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Children with Long COVID: Case Series and Literature Review. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9101446. [PMID: 36291381 PMCID: PMC9600357 DOI: 10.3390/children9101446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Long COVID is an emergent, heterogeneous, and multisystemic condition with an increasingly important impact also on the pediatric population. Among long COVID symptoms, patients can experience chronic gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and dysphagia. Although there is no standard, agreed, and optimal diagnostic approach or treatment of long COVID in children, recently compounds containing multiple micronutrients and lactoferrin have been proposed as a possible treatment strategy, due to the long-standing experience gained from other gastrointestinal conditions. In particular, lactoferrin is a pleiotropic glycoprotein with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and immunomodulatory activities. Moreover, it seems to have several physiological functions to protect the gastrointestinal tract. In this regard, we described the resolution of symptoms after the start of therapy with high doses of oral lactoferrin in two patients referred to our post-COVID pediatric unit due to chronic gastrointestinal symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Saini J, Kaur P, Malik N, Lakhawat SS, Sharma PK. Antimicrobial peptides: A promising tool to combat multidrug resistance in SARS CoV2 era. Microbiol Res 2022; 265:127206. [PMID: 36162150 PMCID: PMC9491010 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019), a life-threatening viral infection, is caused by a highly pathogenic virus named SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2). Currently, no treatment is available for COVID-19; hence there is an urgent need to find effective therapeutic drugs to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Considering the fact that the world is facing a major issue of antimicrobial drug resistance, naturally occurring compounds have the potential to achieve this goal. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are naturally occurring antimicrobial agents which are effective against a wide variety of microbial infections. Therefore, the use of AMPs is an attractive therapeutic strategy for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review sheds light on the potential of antimicrobial peptides as antiviral agents followed by a comprehensive description of effective antiviral peptides derived from various natural sources found to be effective against SARS-CoV and other respiratory viruses. It also highlights the mechanisms of action of antiviral peptides with special emphasis on their effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasleen Saini
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, India
| | - Pritpal Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, India
| | - Naveen Malik
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
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Krzyzowska M, Janicka M, Tomaszewska E, Ranoszek-Soliwoda K, Celichowski G, Grobelny J, Szymanski P. Lactoferrin-Conjugated Nanoparticles as New Antivirals. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091862. [PMID: 36145610 PMCID: PMC9504495 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein with multiple functions in the body. Its activity against a broad spectrum of both DNA and RNA viruses as well as the ability to modulate immune responses have made it of interest in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The mechanisms of its antiviral activity include direct binding to the viruses or its receptors or the upregulation of antiviral responses by the immune system. Recently, much effort has been devoted to the use of nanotechnology in the development of new antivirals. In this review, we focus on describing the antiviral mechanisms of lactoferrin and the possible use of nanotechnology to construct safe and effective new antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Krzyzowska
- Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Kozielska 4, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Martyna Janicka
- Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Kozielska 4, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Emilia Tomaszewska
- Department of Materials Technology and Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, Pomorska 163 St., 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ranoszek-Soliwoda
- Department of Materials Technology and Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, Pomorska 163 St., 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Celichowski
- Department of Materials Technology and Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, Pomorska 163 St., 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Jarosław Grobelny
- Department of Materials Technology and Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, Pomorska 163 St., 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Pawel Szymanski
- Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Kozielska 4, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analyses and Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
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Mohamed Y, El-Maradny YA, Saleh AK, Nayl AA, El-Gendi H, El-Fakharany EM. A comprehensive insight into current control of COVID-19: Immunogenicity, vaccination, and treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113499. [PMID: 36076589 PMCID: PMC9343749 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The healthy immune system eliminates pathogens and maintains tissue homeostasis through extraordinarily complex networks with feedback systems while avoiding potentially massive tissue destruction. Many parameters influence humoral and cellular vaccine responses, including intrinsic and extrinsic, environmental, and behavioral, nutritional, perinatal and administrative parameters. The relative contributions of persisting antibodies and immune memory as well as the determinants of immune memory induction, to protect against specific diseases are the main parameters of long-term vaccine efficacy. Natural and vaccine-induced immunity and monoclonal antibody immunotherapeutic, may be evaded by SARS-CoV-2 variants. Besides the complications of the production of COVID-19 vaccinations, there is no effective single treatment against COVID-19. However, administration of a combined treatment at different stages of COVID-19 infection may offer some cure assistance. Combination treatment of antiviral drugs and immunomodulatory drugs may reduce inflammation in critical COVID-19 patients with cytokine release syndrome. Molnupiravir, remdesivir and paxlovid are the approved antiviral agents that may reduce the recovery time. In addition, immunomodulatory drugs such as lactoferrin and monoclonal antibodies are used to control inflammatory responses in their respective auto-immune conditions. Therefore, the widespread occurrence of highly transmissible variants like Delta and Omicron indicates that there is still a lot of work to be done in designing efficient vaccines and medicines for COVID-19. In this review, we briefly discussed the immunological response against SARS-CoV-2 and the vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) for COVID-19, their mechanisms, and side effects. Moreover, we mentioned various treatment trials and strategies for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasser Mohamed
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg EL-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt; Laboratory of Kafr El-Sheikh Fever Hospital, Kafr El-Sheikh Fever Hospital, 33511 Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt.
| | - Yousra A El-Maradny
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg EL-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt; Microbiology Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed K Saleh
- Cellulose and Paper Department, National Research Centre, El-Tahrir St., Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - AbdElAziz A Nayl
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 72341, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Hamada El-Gendi
- Bioprocess Development Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Universities and Research Institutes zone, New Borg El-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt.
| | - Esmail M El-Fakharany
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg EL-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt.
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Lactoferrin Decreases Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli-Induced Fluid Secretion and Bacterial Adhesion in the Porcine Small Intestine. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091778. [PMID: 36145526 PMCID: PMC9504966 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) infections are one of the most prevalent causes of post-weaning diarrhea in piglets, resulting in morbidity, mortality and elevated use of antibiotics. The emergence and further spread of antimicrobial resistance together with the growing demand for high quality animal protein requires the identification of novel alternatives for antimicrobials. A promising alternative is lactoferrin, as we previously showed that it can both inhibit the growth and degrade bacterial virulence factors of porcine ETEC strains in vitro. Aiming to confirm these findings in vivo, we performed a small intestinal segment perfusion experiment in piglets. Here, we showed that lactoferrin could not only decrease ETEC-induced fluid secretion, but also their ability to colonize the small intestinal epithelium. Furthermore, while ETEC infection induced pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression in this experiment, lactoferrin was not able to counteract these responses. In addition, a bacterial motility assay showed that lactoferrin can reduce the motility of ETEC. Our findings further support the use of lactoferrin as an alternative for antimicrobials and also show its potential for the prevention of ETEC infections in pigs.
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Rosa L, Cutone A, Conte MP, Campione E, Bianchi L, Valenti P. An overview on in vitro and in vivo antiviral activity of lactoferrin: its efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Biometals 2022; 36:417-436. [PMID: 35920949 PMCID: PMC9362590 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-022-00427-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Beyond the absolute and indisputable relevance and efficacy of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, the rapid transmission, the severity of infection, the absence of the protection on immunocompromised patients, the propagation of variants, the onset of infection and/or disease in vaccinated subjects and the lack of availability of worldwide vaccination require additional antiviral treatments. Since 1987, lactoferrin (Lf) is well-known to possess an antiviral activity related to its physico-chemical properties and to its ability to bind to both heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) of host cells and/or surface components of viral particles. In the present review, we summarize in vitro and in vivo studies concerning the efficacy of Lf against DNA, RNA, enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Recent studies have revealed that the in vitro antiviral activity of Lf is also extendable to SARS-CoV-2. In vivo, Lf oral administration in early stage of SARS-CoV-2 infection counteracts COVID-19 pathogenesis. In particular, the effect of Lf on SARS-CoV-2 entry, inflammatory homeostasis, iron dysregulation, iron-proteins synthesis, reactive oxygen formation, oxidative stress, gut-lung axis regulation as well as on RNA negativization, and coagulation/fibrinolysis balance will be critically reviewed. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms underneath, including the Lf binding to HSPGs and spike glycoprotein, will be disclosed and discussed. Taken together, present data not only support the application of the oral administration of Lf alone in asymptomatic COVID-19 patients or as adjuvant of standard of care practice in symptomatic ones but also constitute the basis for enriching the limited literature on Lf effectiveness for COVID-19 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Pesche, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Conte
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Campione
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Bianchi
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy.
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Zauli G, AlHilali S, Al-Swailem S, Secchiero P, Voltan R. Therapeutic potential of the MDM2 inhibitor Nutlin-3 in counteracting SARS-CoV-2 infection of the eye through p53 activation. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:902713. [PMID: 35911386 PMCID: PMC9329687 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.902713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Starting from the beginning of the severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) global pandemic, most of the published data has concentrated on the respiratory signs and symptoms of Covid-19 infection, underestimating the presence and importance of ocular manifestations, such as conjunctivitis, usually reported in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. With the present review we intend to resume the ocular involvement in SARS-CoV-2 infection and the recent discoveries about the different cell types and tissues of the eye that can be directly infected by SARS-CoV-2 and propagate the infection. Moreover, reviewing literature data about p53 expression in normal and diseased eye tissues, we hypothesize that the pleiotropic protein p53 present at high levels in cornea, conjunctiva and tear film might play a protective role against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Since p53 can be easily up-regulated by using small molecule non-genotoxic inhibitors of MDM2, we propose that topical use of Nutlin-3, the prototype member of MDM2 inhibitors, might protect the anterior surface of the eye from SARS-CoV-2 infection, reducing the spreading of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Giorgio Zauli
| | - Sara AlHilali
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samar Al-Swailem
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Paola Secchiero
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rebecca Voltan
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Pang Z, Hu R, Tian L, Lou F, Chen Y, Wang S, He S, Zhu S, An X, Song L, Liu F, Tong Y, Fan H. Overview of Breastfeeding Under COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Immunol 2022; 13:896068. [PMID: 35711421 PMCID: PMC9192965 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.896068] [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: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), pregnant and lactating women are at higher risk of infection. The potential of viral intrauterine transmission and vertical transmission by breastfeeding has raised wide concerns. Breastmilk is rich in nutrients that contribute to infant growth and development, and reduce the incidence rate of infant illness and death, as well as inhibit pathogens significantly, and protect infants from infection. Although it is controversial whether mothers infected with COVID-19 should continue to breastfeed, many countries and international organizations have provided recommendations and guidance for breastfeeding. This review presents the risks and benefits of breastfeeding for mothers infected with COVID-19, and the reasons for the absence of SARS-CoV-2 active virus in human milk. In addition, the antiviral mechanisms of nutrients in breastmilk, the levels of SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies in breastmilk from COVID-19 infected mothers and vaccinated mothers are also summarized and discussed, aiming to provide some support and recommendations for both lactating mothers and infants to better deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehan Pang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Ruolan Hu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Tian
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Fuxing Lou
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yangzhen Chen
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shuqi Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shiting He
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shaozhou Zhu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoping An
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Lihua Song
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Feitong Liu
- Health & Happiness Group, Health & Happiness Research, China Aesearch and Innovation, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yigang Tong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Huahao Fan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
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Tosato M, Ciciarello F, Zazzara MB, Pais C, Savera G, Picca A, Galluzzo V, Coelho-Júnior HJ, Calvani R, Marzetti E, Landi F. Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements for Older Adults with Long COVID. Clin Geriatr Med 2022; 38:565-591. [PMID: 35868674 PMCID: PMC9212635 DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Tosato
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Francesca Ciciarello
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Zazzara
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Cristina Pais
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Giulia Savera
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Anna Picca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Galluzzo
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Hélio José Coelho-Júnior
- Department of Geriatrics and Orthopedics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, L.go F. Vito 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Riccardo Calvani
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy.
| | - Emanuele Marzetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy; Department of Geriatrics and Orthopedics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, L.go F. Vito 8, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Francesco Landi
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy; Department of Geriatrics and Orthopedics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, L.go F. Vito 8, Rome 00168, Italy
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Telek E, Ujfalusi Z, Kemenesi G, Zana B, Jakab F, Hild G, Lukács A, Hild G. A Possible Way to Relate the Effects of SARS-CoV-2-Induced Changes in Transferrin to Severe COVID-19-Associated Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6189. [PMID: 35682873 PMCID: PMC9181396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infections are responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Transferrin has been found to explain the link between diseases associated with impaired iron transport and COVID-19 infection. The effect of SARS-CoV-2 on human whole blood was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The analysis of the thermal transition curves showed that the melting temperature of the transferrin-related peak decreased in the presence of SARS-CoV-2. The ratio of the under-curve area of the two main peaks was greatly affected, while the total enthalpy of the heat denaturation remained nearly unchanged in the presence of the virus. These results indicate that SARS-CoV-2, through binding to transferrin, may influence its Fe3+ uptake by inducing thermodynamic changes. Therefore, transferrin may remain in an iron-free apo-conformational state, which depends on the SARS-CoV-2 concentration. SARS-CoV-2 can induce disturbance in erythropoiesis due to toxicity generated by free iron overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elek Telek
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.T.); (Z.U.); (A.L.)
| | - Zoltán Ujfalusi
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.T.); (Z.U.); (A.L.)
| | - Gábor Kemenesi
- Szentágothai Research Centre, Virological Research Group, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 20, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.K.); (B.Z.); (F.J.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 6, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Virology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 20, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Brigitta Zana
- Szentágothai Research Centre, Virological Research Group, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 20, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.K.); (B.Z.); (F.J.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 6, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Virology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 20, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Jakab
- Szentágothai Research Centre, Virological Research Group, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 20, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (G.K.); (B.Z.); (F.J.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 6, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Virology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 20, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Hild
- Languages for Biomedical Purposes and Communication, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - András Lukács
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.T.); (Z.U.); (A.L.)
| | - Gábor Hild
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Str. 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.T.); (Z.U.); (A.L.)
- Department of Medical Imaging, Clinical Centre, University of Pécs, Ifjúság Str. 13, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Piacentini R, Centi L, Miotto M, Milanetti E, Di Rienzo L, Pitea M, Piazza P, Ruocco G, Boffi A, Parisi G. Lactoferrin Inhibition of the Complex Formation between ACE2 Receptor and SARS CoV-2 Recognition Binding Domain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105436. [PMID: 35628247 PMCID: PMC9141661 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The present investigation focuses on the analysis of the interactions among human lactoferrin (LF), SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) and human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor in order to assess possible mutual interactions that could provide a molecular basis of the reported preventative effect of lactoferrin against CoV-2 infection. In particular, kinetic and thermodynamic parameters for the pairwise interactions among the three proteins were measured via two independent techniques, biolayer interferometry and latex nanoparticle-enhanced turbidimetry. The results obtained clearly indicate that LF is able to bind the ACE2 receptor ectodomain with significantly high affinity, whereas no binding to the RBD was observed up to the maximum “physiological” lactoferrin concentration range. Lactoferrin, above 1 µM concentration, thus appears to directly interfere with RBD–ACE2 binding, bringing about a measurable, up to 300-fold increase of the KD value relative to RBD–ACE2 complex formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Piacentini
- Department of Biochemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (R.P.); (L.C.); (A.B.)
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Laura Centi
- Department of Biochemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (R.P.); (L.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Mattia Miotto
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Department of Physics, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Milanetti
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Department of Physics, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Rienzo
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Martina Pitea
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- D-Tails s.r.l., Via di Torre Rossa 66, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Piazza
- EDIF Instruments s.r.l., Via Ardeatina 132, 00147 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giancarlo Ruocco
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Department of Physics, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Boffi
- Department of Biochemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (R.P.); (L.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Giacomo Parisi
- Center of Life Nano and Neuro Science, Institute of Italian Technology, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00181 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (E.M.); (L.D.R.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Lactoferrin as a Human Genome “Guardian”—An Overall Point of View. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095248. [PMID: 35563638 PMCID: PMC9105968 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural abnormalities causing DNA modifications of the ethene and propanoadducts can lead to mutations and permanent damage to human genetic material. Such changes may cause premature aging and cell degeneration and death as well as severe impairment of tissue and organ function. This may lead to the development of various diseases, including cancer. In response to a damage, cells have developed defense mechanisms aimed at preventing disease and repairing damaged genetic material or diverting it into apoptosis. All of the mechanisms described above are part of the repertoire of action of Lactoferrin—an endogenous protein that contains iron in its structure, which gives it numerous antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anticancer properties. The aim of the article is to synthetically present the new and innovative role of lactoferrin in the protection of human genetic material against internal and external damage, described by the modulation mechanisms of the cell cycle at all its levels and the mechanisms of its repair.
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de Jesus JR, Galazzi RM, Lopes Júnior CA, Arruda MAZ. Trace element homeostasis in the neurological system after SARS-CoV-2 infection: Insight into potential biochemical mechanisms. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 71:126964. [PMID: 35240553 PMCID: PMC8881805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.126964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have suggested that COVID-19 is a systemic disease that can affect several organs, including the brain. In the brain, specifically, viral infection can cause dyshomeostasis of some trace elements that promote complex biochemical reactions in specialized neurological functions. OBJECTIVE Understand the neurovirulence of SARS-CoV-2 and the relationship between trace elements and neurological disorders after infection, and provide new insights on the drug development for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections. METHODS The main databases were used to search studies published up September 2021, focusing on the role of trace elements during viral infection and on the correct functioning of the brain. RESULTS The imbalance of important trace elements can accelerate SARS-CoV-2 neurovirulence and increase the neurotoxicity since many neurological processes can be associated with the homeostasis of metal and metalloproteins. Some studies involving animals and humans have suggested the synapse as a vulnerable region of the brain to neurological disorders after viral infection. Considering the combined evidence, some mechanisms have been suggested to understand the relationship between neurological disorders and imbalance of trace elements in the brain after viral infection. CONCLUSION Trace elements play important roles in viral infections, such as helping to activate immune cells, produce antibodies, and inhibit virus replication. However, the relationship between trace elements and virus infections is complex since the specific functions of several elements remain largely undefined. Therefore, there is still a lot to be explored to understand the biochemical mechanisms involved between trace elements and viral infections, especially in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemmyson Romário de Jesus
- Research Laboratory in Bionanomaterials, LPbio, Brazil; Chemistry Department, Federal University of Viçosa, UFV, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo Moretto Galazzi
- Analytical Instrumentation Division, Analytik Jena GmbH, an Endress & Hauser Company, São Paulo, SP 04029-901, Brazil.
| | - Cícero Alves Lopes Júnior
- Grupo de Estudos em Bioanalítica - GEBIO, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Piauí, 64049-550 Teresina, PI, Brazil.
| | - Marco Aurélio Zezzi Arruda
- Spectrometry, Sample Preparation and Mechanization Group, GEPAM, Institute of Chemistry, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil; National Institute of Science and Technology for Bioanalytics, Brazil.
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Interaction of Pelargonium sidoides Compounds with Lactoferrin and SARS-CoV-2: Insights from Molecular Simulations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095254. [PMID: 35564648 PMCID: PMC9101775 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Pelargonium sidoides extracts and lactoferrin are two important natural, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral agents, which can interfere with the early stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation approaches have been applied to check for the occurrence of interactions of the Pelargonium sidoides compounds with lactoferrin and with SARS-CoV-2 components. (2) Methods: Computational methods have been applied to confirm the hypothesis of a direct interaction between PEL compounds and the lactoferrin protein and between Pelargonium sidoides compounds and SARS-CoV-2 Spike, 3CLPro, RdRp proteins, and membrane. Selected high-score complexes were structurally investigated through classical molecular dynamics simulation, while the interaction energies were evaluated using the molecular mechanics energies combined with generalized Born and surface area continuum solvation method. (3) Results: Computational analyses suggested that Pelargonium sidoides extracts can interact with lactoferrin without altering its structural and dynamical properties. Furthermore, Pelargonium sidoides compounds should have the ability to interfere with the Spike glycoprotein, the 3CLPro, and the lipid membrane, probably affecting the functional properties of the proteins inserted in the double layer. (4) Conclusion: Our findings suggest that Pelargonium sidoides may interfere with the mechanism of infection of SARS-CoV-2, especially in the early stages.
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García-Carnero LC, Mora-Montes HM. Mucormycosis and COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis: Insights of a Deadly but Neglected Mycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:445. [PMID: 35628701 PMCID: PMC9144279 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has quickly become a health threat worldwide, with high mortality and morbidity among patients with comorbidities. This viral infection promotes the perfect setting in patients for the development of opportunistic infections, such as those caused by fungi. Mucormycosis, a rare but deadly fungal infection, has recently increased its incidence, especially in endemic areas, since the onset of the pandemic. COVID-19-associated mucormycosis is an important complication of the pandemic because it is a mycosis hard to diagnose and treat, causing concern among COVID-19-infected patients and even in the already recovered population. The risk factors for the development of mucormycosis in these patients are related to the damage caused by the SARS-CoV-2 itself, the patient's overstimulated immune response, and the therapy used to treat COVID-19, causing alterations such as hyperglycemia, acidosis, endothelial and lung damage, and immunosuppression. In this review, the molecular aspects of mucormycosis and the main risk factors for the development of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis are explained to understand this virus-fungi-host interaction and highlight the importance of this neglected mycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C. García-Carnero
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato 36050, Mexico
| | - Héctor M. Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato 36050, Mexico
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