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Pugach P, Sadeghi-Latefi N. Supporting respiratory epithelia and lowering inflammation to effectively treat common cold symptoms: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301959. [PMID: 39602479 PMCID: PMC11602100 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Common cold viruses are leading triggers of asthma attacks, causing nearly two million hospitalizations per year and productivity losses approaching $40B. They also increase susceptibility to bacterial infections driving antibiotic use. Post-market clinical studies have questioned the efficacy of most over the counter (OTC) cough and cold ingredients against placebo in treating various symptoms. To our knowledge, only aspirin significantly improved overall illness severity compared to placebo and that was by about 25-30%. In this double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial involving 157 participants, we sought to determine whether a throat spray containing a mucosal immune complex (MIC) (comprised of lysozyme, lactoferrin, and aloe) along with anti-inflammatory salicylates can increase the hereto reported efficacy of aspirin at reducing common cold symptoms. Previously published reports showed that the MIC can protect respiratory epithelia and lower inflammatory cytokines. Salicylates are naturally occurring plant compounds found in many common foods as well as wintergreen oil and are chemically similar precursors to aspirin (acetyl salicylate). Participants self-administered treatments (throat sprays every hour and tablets every four hours) and completed surveys at home over two days. Treatments included MIC spray mixed with 6 mg aspirin + placebo tablet (Treatment 1), MIC spray mixed with 6 mg wintergreen oil+ placebo tablet (Treatment 2), MIC spray mixed with 6mg wintergreen oil+ 325 mg aspirin tablet (Treatment 3). Participants included adult volunteers ages 21-66 (average 44), 54% female, 46% male, 46% African American, 8% Asian, 39% Caucasian, and 7% Hispanic, having common cold symptoms lasting less than two days. The main outcome measures included Sore Throat Pain Intensity (STPIS) 0-100 at 36 hours (primary endpoint) and Modified Jackson Score (MJS), a combination of eight cold symptoms (secondary endpoint). Both primary and secondary endpoints were met. Sore throat pain as measured by STPIS decreased 68-75% by 36 hours depending on treatment. Other symptoms such as nasal discharge, congestion, sneezing, cough, sore throat, and malaise as measured by MJS decreased 38-68% depending on treatment. In repeated measure within group analysis observing the same participants over multiple time points; the mean change of STPIS values and their percentage change from baseline to 36 hours were as follows: Placebo (-7.84 [95% CI -14.20 to -1.47];(-14%)), Treatment 1 (-42.41 [95% CI -48.30 to -36.52];(-75%)), Treatment 2 (-38.60 [95% CI -46.64 to -31.56];(-68%)), and Treatment 3 (-44.19 [95% CI -52.11 to -36.27];(-79%)). In repeated measure within group analysis all treatments significantly reduced cold symptom severity (MJS) from Days 1-2. Results were as follows: Treatment 1 (-2.26 [95% CI -3.04 to -1.47] (-38%)), Treatment 2 (-3.81 [95% CI -4.82 to -2.80];(-53%)), Treatment 3 (-4.49 [95% CI -5.62 to -3.57];(-69%)). As a result of this study, we conclude that supporting upper respiratory epithelia and reducing COX-mediated inflammation may be used to effectively treat common cold symptoms. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06106880 Posted 30/10/2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Pugach
- Applied Biological Laboratories Inc, New York, NY, United States of America
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Ponzini E, Astolfi G, Grandori R, Tavazzi S, Versura P. Development, Optimization, and Clinical Relevance of Lactoferrin Delivery Systems: A Focus on Ocular Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:804. [PMID: 38931931 PMCID: PMC11207246 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), a multifunctional protein found abundantly in secretions, including tears, plays a crucial role in ocular health through its antimicrobial, immunoregulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Advanced delivery systems are desirable to fully leverage its therapeutic potential in treating ocular diseases. The process of Lf quantification for diagnostic purposes underscores the importance of developing reliable, cost-effective detection methods, ranging from conventional techniques to advanced nano-based sensors. Despite the ease and non-invasiveness of topical administration for ocular surface diseases, challenges such as rapid drug elimination necessitate innovations, such as Lf-loaded contact lenses and biodegradable polymeric nanocapsules, to enhance drug stability and bioavailability. Furthermore, overcoming ocular barriers for the treatment of posterior segment disease calls for nano-formulations. The scope of this review is to underline the advancements in nanotechnology-based Lf delivery methods, emphasizing the pivotal role of multidisciplinary approaches and cross-field strategies in improving ocular drug delivery and achieving better therapeutic outcomes for a wide spectrum of eye conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Ponzini
- Department of Materials Science, University of Milano-Bicocca, via R. Cozzi 55, I-20125 Milan, Italy
- COMiB Research Center, University of Milano-Bicocca, via R. Cozzi 55, I-20125 Milan, Italy
| | - Gloria Astolfi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, via Palagi 9, I-40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.A.); (P.V.)
| | - Rita Grandori
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, I-20126 Milan, Italy;
- Institute for Advanced Simulations, Forschungszentrum Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
| | - Silvia Tavazzi
- Department of Materials Science, University of Milano-Bicocca, via R. Cozzi 55, I-20125 Milan, Italy
- COMiB Research Center, University of Milano-Bicocca, via R. Cozzi 55, I-20125 Milan, Italy
| | - Piera Versura
- Ophthalmology Unit, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, via Palagi 9, I-40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.A.); (P.V.)
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, via Palagi 9, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
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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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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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5
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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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Omidifar N, Pazoki N, Shokripour M, Fattahi MR, Safarpour AR, Fallahzadeh Abarghooee E, Nikmanesh N, Shamsdin SA, Akrami H, Saghi SA, Nikmanesh Y. The Effect of Coronavirus Disease 2019 on the Quality of Associated Care in Patients with Gastric Cancer. Middle East J Dig Dis 2024; 16:12-22. [PMID: 39050096 PMCID: PMC11264831 DOI: 10.34172/mejdd.2024.363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus is a new virus that has affected human life on a large scale; it has infected millions of people and killed hundreds of thousands of people. In contrast, among cancers, stomach neoplasia is the most common cancer of the upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract. COVID-19 disease has disrupted the optimal management of patients with cancer. Metastasis, deterioration of the patient's nutritional status, UGI bleeding, and increased surgical complications are all consequences of delayed treatment of patients with gastric cancer. However, there is still insufficient evidence on the immunogenicity of the vaccine and the protection provided by coronavirus vaccines in patients with cancer, especially those with immunodeficiency or those who are treated for certain types of cancers. Also, as part of the prevention and control of COVID-19 disease, nutritional support for patients with gastrointestinal cancer is particularly important, and the psychological and physiological limitations caused by the disease duration are hurting the well-being of patients. Therefore, the assessment of the impact of the coronavirus on cancer should be treated as an important issue, and healthcare professionals should be prepared to deal with the long-term effects of the coronavirus disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Omidifar
- Biotechnology Research Center and Department of Pathology, Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Pazoki
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Shokripour
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Fattahi
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Safarpour
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Nika Nikmanesh
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Azra Shamsdin
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hassan Akrami
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Amirreza Saghi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
| | - Yousef Nikmanesh
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Cais-Sokolińska D, Teichert J, Gawałek J. Foaming and Other Functional Properties of Freeze-Dried Mare's Milk. Foods 2023; 12:foods12112274. [PMID: 37297518 DOI: 10.3390/foods12112274] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the freeze-drying process on the preservation of mare's milk. This was achieved through the characterization of the functional properties of reconstituted freeze-dried mare's milk. The chemical composition, bulk density, foam capacity, and ability to form emulsions of the atherogenic, thrombogenic, and hypercholesterolemic fatty acid index were investigated. The freeze-drying process did not change the proportion of the milk components in the dry matter. The moisture content of the freeze-dried mare's milk was 10.3 g/kg and the bulk was below 0.1 g/mL. The foaming capacity was 111.3%; hence, the foaming capacity of the milk was very poor. The oil binding capacity was 2.19 g/g of protein. The freeze-drying process improves the binding degree and retention of oil by milk proteins, but produced foam was unstable, short-lived, and lacked the ability to retain air fractions. The atherogenic index and thrombogenic index values calculated for reconstituted milk were 1.02 and 0.53, respectively. The hypercholesterolemia fatty acid index was 25.01.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Cais-Sokolińska
- Department of Dairy and Process Engineering, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, ul. Wojska Polskiego 31/33, 60-624 Poznan, Poland
| | - Joanna Teichert
- Department of Dairy and Process Engineering, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, ul. Wojska Polskiego 31/33, 60-624 Poznan, Poland
| | - Jolanta Gawałek
- Department of Dairy and Process Engineering, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, ul. Wojska Polskiego 31/33, 60-624 Poznan, Poland
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Janczy A, Kaska Ł, Proczko-Stepaniak M, Skotnicka M, Stankiewicz M, Szymański M. Assessment of nutritional and low-grade inflammation status among bariatric surgery candidates in the preoperative period during the COVID-19 pandemic. Obes Res Clin Pract 2023:S1871-403X(23)00044-3. [PMID: 37271701 DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Agata Janczy
- Department of Food Commodity Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Łukasz Kaska
- Department of General Endocrine and Transplant Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Monika Proczko-Stepaniak
- Department of General Endocrine and Transplant Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Skotnicka
- Department of Food Commodity Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marta Stankiewicz
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Michał Szymański
- Department of General Endocrine and Transplant Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland.
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Al-Najjar AH, Ayob AR, Awad AS. Role of Lactoferrin in Treatment of Bile Duct Ligation-Induced Hepatic Fibrosis in Rats: Impact on Inflammation and TGF-β1/Smad2/α SMA Signaling Pathway. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:428-436. [PMID: 37250877 PMCID: PMC10213847 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatic fibrosis is a major health issue that might lead to hepatic cirrhosis and cancer. One of its main causes is cholestasis, which has been stimulated by bile duct ligation (BDL) to block the bile flow from the liver. As for the treatment, lactoferrin (LF), the iron-binding glycoprotein, has been evaluated in various studies for the treatment of infections, inflammation, and cancer. The current study aims to investigate the curative effects of LF on BDL-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Methods Rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups: (1) Control sham, (2) BDL: that have been subjected to a surgery of BDL, (3) BDL + LF: 14 days later after surgery; they have been subjected to LF treatment (300 mg/kg/day, po) for two weeks, and (4) LF group has been administered (300 mg/kg/day, po) for two weeks. Results BDL elevated inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin -1beta (IL-1β) by 635% and 250% (P ≤ 0.05), respectively, as sham group), beside it decreased the anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin- 10 (IL-10) by 47.7% (P ≤ 0.05) as sham group, causing inflammation, and fibrosis of the liver by the up-regulation of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)/Smad2/α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) signaling pathway. LF treatment ameliorated these effects through its anti-inflammatory action (it significantly decreased tumor necrosis factor-alpha and IL-1β by 166% and 159% (P ≤ 0.05), respectively, as sham group, while increased IL-10 by 86.8% (P ≤ 0.05), as sham group) and anti-fibrotic effect by the down-regulation of TGF-β1/Smad2/α-SMA signaling pathway. These results were confirmed by histopathological examination. Conclusion lactoferrin shows promising results for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis via attenuating the TGF-β1/Smad2/α-SMA pathway and through its properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya H. Al-Najjar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya R. Ayob
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, 6th of October University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Azza S. Awad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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Mohamed OS, Abdel Baky NA, Sayed-Ahmed MM, Al-Najjar AH. Lactoferrin alleviates cyclophosphamide induced-nephropathy through suppressing the orchestration between Wnt4/β-catenin and ERK1/2/NF-κB signaling and modulating klotho and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Life Sci 2023; 319:121528. [PMID: 36828132 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent with vast arrays of therapeutic activity. Currently, its medical use is limited due to its numerous adverse events, including nephrotoxicity. This study aimed to follow the molecular mechanisms behind the potential renoprotective action of lactoferrin (LF) against cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced renal injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS For fulfillment of our aim, Spragw-Dwaly rats were orally administrated LF (300 mg/kg) for seven consecutive days, followed by a single intraperitoneal injection of CP (150 mg/kg). KEY FINDINGS Treatment of CP-injured rats with LF significantly reduced the elevated creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), markedly upregulated Nrf2/HO-1 signaling with consequent increase in renal total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and decrease in renal malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Furthermore, LF treatment significantly reduced the elevated renal p-ERK1/2 expression, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) levels in CP-treated animals. Interestingly, LF treatment downregulated Wnt4/β-catenin signaling and increased both renal klotho gene expression and serum klotho level. Furthermore, LF treatment reduced apoptosis in kidney tissue via suppressing GSK-3β expression and modulating caspase-3 and Bcl2 levels. Histopathological examination of kidney tissue confirmed the protective effect of LF against CP-induced renal injury. SIGNIFICANCE The present findings document the renoprotective effect of LF against CP-induced nephropathy, which may be mediated via suppressing ERK1/2/ NF-κB and Wnt4/β-catenin trajectories and enhancing klotho expression and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola S Mohamed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nayira A Abdel Baky
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed M Sayed-Ahmed
- Pharmacology and Experimental Oncology Unit, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya H Al-Najjar
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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11
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Matino E, Tavella E, Rizzi M, Avanzi GC, Azzolina D, Battaglia A, Becco P, Bellan M, Bertinieri G, Bertoletti M, Casciaro GF, Castello LM, Colageo U, Colangelo D, Comolli D, Costanzo M, Croce A, D’Onghia D, Della Corte F, De Mitri L, Dodaro V, Givone F, Gravina A, Grillenzoni L, Gusmaroli G, Landi R, Lingua A, Manzoni R, Marinoni V, Masturzo B, Minisini R, Morello M, Nelva A, Ortone E, Paolella R, Patti G, Pedrinelli A, Pirisi M, Ravizzi L, Rizzi E, Sola D, Sola M, Tonello N, Tonello S, Topazzo G, Tua A, Valenti P, Vaschetto R, Vassia V, Zecca E, Zublena N, Manzoni P, Sainaghi PP. Effect of Lactoferrin on Clinical Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: The LAC Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients 2023; 15:1285. [PMID: 36904283 PMCID: PMC10005739 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As lactoferrin is a nutritional supplement with proven antiviral and immunomodulatory abilities, it may be used to improve the clinical course of COVID-19. The clinical efficacy and safety of bovine lactoferrin were evaluated in the LAC randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. A total of 218 hospitalized adult patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 were randomized to receive 800 mg/die oral bovine lactoferrin (n = 113) or placebo (n = 105), both given in combination with standard COVID-19 therapy. No differences in lactoferrin vs. placebo were observed in the primary outcomes: the proportion of death or intensive care unit admission (risk ratio of 1.06 (95% CI 0.63-1.79)) or proportion of discharge or National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) ≤ 2 within 14 days from enrollment (RR of 0.85 (95% CI 0.70-1.04)). Lactoferrin showed an excellent safety and tolerability profile. Even though bovine lactoferrin is safe and tolerable, our results do not support its use in hospitalized patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Matino
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Elena Tavella
- Department of Maternal-Infant Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Manuela Rizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Avanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Danila Azzolina
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Antonio Battaglia
- Division of Dermatology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Becco
- Division of Oncology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Mattia Bellan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Bertinieri
- Division of Internal Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Francesco Casciaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi Mario Castello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera “SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo”, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Umberto Colageo
- Intensive Care Unit, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Donato Colangelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide Comolli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Martina Costanzo
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Croce
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Davide D’Onghia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Della Corte
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigi De Mitri
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Valentina Dodaro
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Filippo Givone
- Division of Pneumology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Alessia Gravina
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Luca Grillenzoni
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Landi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Lingua
- Division of Infectious Disease, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Roberto Manzoni
- Division of Dermatology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Vito Marinoni
- Division of Geriatric Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Rosalba Minisini
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Marina Morello
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Anna Nelva
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Elena Ortone
- Division of Geriatric Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Rita Paolella
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Patti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Medical Department, Division of Cardiology, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anita Pedrinelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mario Pirisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Lidia Ravizzi
- Division of Pneumology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rizzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Daniele Sola
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Mariolina Sola
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Nadir Tonello
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Stelvio Tonello
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Gigliola Topazzo
- Division of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Aldo Tua
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Vaschetto
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, AOU “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Veronica Vassia
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Erika Zecca
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Zublena
- Division of Palliative Care, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
| | - Paolo Manzoni
- Department of Maternal-Infant Medicine, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Ponderano, Italy
- Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin School of Medicine, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Pier Paolo Sainaghi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and COVID-19 Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Division of Emergency Medicine and COVID-19 Sub-Intensive Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- CAAD, Center for Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
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12
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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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13
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Naidu SAG, Wallace TC, Davies KJA, Naidu AS. Lactoferrin for Mental Health: Neuro-Redox Regulation and Neuroprotective Effects across the Blood-Brain Barrier with Special Reference to Neuro-COVID-19. J Diet Suppl 2023; 20:218-253. [PMID: 33977807 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2021.1922567] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Overall mental health depends in part on the blood-brain barrier, which regulates nutrient transfer in-and-out of the brain and its central nervous system. Lactoferrin, an innate metal-transport protein, synthesized in the substantia nigra, particularly in dopaminergic neurons and activated microglia is vital for brain physiology. Lactoferrin rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier via receptor-mediated transcytosis and accumulates in the brain capillary endothelial cells. Lactoferrin receptors are additionally present on glioma cells, brain micro-vessels, and neurons. As a regulator of neuro-redox, microglial lactoferrin is critical for protection/repair of neurons and healthy brain function. Iron imbalance and oxidative stress are common among patients with neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, depression, and multiple sclerosis. As an endogenous iron-chelator, lactoferrin prevents iron accumulation and dopamine depletion in Parkinson's disease patients. Oral lactoferrin supplementation could modulate the p-Akt/PTEN pathway, reduce Aβ deposition, and ameliorate cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. Novel lactoferrin-based nano-therapeutics have emerged as effective drug-delivery systems for clinical management of neurodegenerative disorders. Recent emergence of the Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, initially considered a respiratory illness, demonstrated a broader virulence spectrum with the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and inflict a plethora of neuropathological manifestations in the brain - the Neuro-COVID-19. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections are widely reported in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and multiple sclerosis patients with aggravated clinical outcomes. Lactoferrin, credited with several neuroprotective benefits in the brain could serve as a potential adjuvant in the clinical management of Neuro-COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreus A G Naidu
- N-terminus Research Laboratory, Yorba Linda, California, USA
| | - Taylor C Wallace
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
- Think Healthy Group, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kelvin J A Davies
- Division of Biogerontology, Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Division of Molecular & Computational Biology, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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14
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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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15
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Einerhand AWC, van Loo-Bouwman CA, Weiss GA, Wang C, Ba G, Fan Q, He B, Smit G. Can Lactoferrin, a Natural Mammalian Milk Protein, Assist in the Battle against COVID-19? Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245274. [PMID: 36558432 PMCID: PMC9782828 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Notwithstanding mass vaccination against specific SARS-CoV-2 variants, there is still a demand for complementary nutritional intervention strategies to fight COVID-19. The bovine milk protein lactoferrin (LF) has attracted interest of nutraceutical, food and dairy industries for its numerous properties-ranging from anti-viral and anti-microbial to immunological-making it a potential functional ingredient in a wide variety of food applications to maintain health. Importantly, bovine LF was found to exert anti-viral activities against several types of viruses, including certain SARS-CoV-2 variants. LF's potential effect on COVID-19 patients has seen a rapid increase of in vitro and in vivo studies published, resulting in a model on how LF might play a role during different phases of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Aim of this narrative review is two-fold: (1) to highlight the most relevant findings concerning LF's anti-viral, anti-microbial, iron-binding, immunomodulatory, microbiota-modulatory and intestinal barrier properties that support health of the two most affected organs in COVID-19 patients (lungs and gut), and (2) to explore the possible underlying mechanisms governing its mode of action. Thanks to its potential effects on health, bovine LF can be considered a good candidate for nutritional interventions counteracting SARS-CoV-2 infection and related COVID-19 pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Caiyun Wang
- Inner Mongolia Dairy Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd., Hohhot 010110, China
| | - Genna Ba
- Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co., Ltd., Hohhot 010110, China
| | - Qicheng Fan
- Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co., Ltd., Hohhot 010110, China
| | - Baoping He
- Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co., Ltd., Hohhot 010110, China
| | - Gerrit Smit
- Yili Innovation Center Europe, 6708 WH Wageningen, The Netherlands
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16
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Cipriano M, Ruberti E, Tovani-Palone MR. Combined use of lactoferrin and vitamin D as a preventive and therapeutic supplement for SARS-CoV-2 infection: Current evidence. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:11665-11670. [PMID: 36405280 PMCID: PMC9669848 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i32.11665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin is a multifunctional protein that exhibits anti-inflammatory, immune regulating and anti-infective properties. One of its receptor sites is located on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The binding of lactoferrin with heparin sulfate proteoglycans may prevent the first contact between the virus and host cells, thus preventing subsequent infection. Given that lactoferrin may act as a natural mucosal barrier, an intranasal treatment together with its oral intake can be hypothesized to prevent the spread, infection and inflammation caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Moreover, the literature reports that vitamin D plays an essential role in promoting immune response. With its anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, vitamin D is critical for activating the immune system’s defenses, improving immune cell function. Different studies also demonstrate that lactoferrin is a potential activator of the vitamin D receptor. In this sense, the combined use of lactoferrin (through an association of oral intake and a nasal spray formulation) and vitamin D could represent a valuable therapy for COVID-19 treatment and prevention. However, further randomized clinical trials are needed before recommending/prescribing them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Cipriano
- Department of Laparoscopic Surgery, Umberto I General Hospital, Medical School Sapienza University, Rome 161, Italy
| | - Enzo Ruberti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy
| | - Marcos Roberto Tovani-Palone
- Department of Research Analytics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 600 077, India
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17
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Lou F, Hu R, Chen Y, Li M, An X, Song L, Tong Y, Fan H. 2'-Fucosyllactose Inhibits Coxsackievirus Class A Type 9 Infection by Blocking Virus Attachment and Internalisation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213727. [PMID: 36430203 PMCID: PMC9691179 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Coxsackieviruses, a genus of enteroviruses in the small RNA virus family, cause fatal infectious diseases in humans. Thus far, there are no approved drugs to prevent these diseases. Human milk contains various biologically active components against pathogens. Currently, the potential activity of breast milk components against the coxsackievirus remains unclear. In our study, the inhibitory effect of 16 major human milk components was tested on coxsackievirus class A type 9 isolate (CV-A9), BUCT01; 2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL) was identified to be effective. Time-of-addition, attachment internalisation assays, and the addition of 2'-FL at different time points were applied to investigate its specific role in the viral life cycle. Molecular docking was used to predict 2'-FL's specific cellular targets. The initial screening revealed a significant inhibitory effect (99.97%) against CV-A9 with 10 mg/mL 2'-FL, with no cytotoxicity observed. Compared with the control group, 2'-FL blocked virus entry (85%) as well as inhibited viral attachment (48.4%) and internalisation (51.3%), minimising its infection in rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cells. The cell pre-incubation with 2'-FL exhibited significant inhibition (73.2-99.9%). Extended incubation between cells with 2'-FL reduced CV-A9 infection (93.9%), suggesting that 2'-FL predominantly targets cells to block infection. Molecular docking results revealed that 2'-FL interacted with the attachment receptor αvβ6 and the internalisation receptor FCGRT and β2M with an affinity of -2.14, -1.87, and -5.43 kcal/mol, respectively. This study lays the foundation for using 2'-FL as a food additive against CV-A9 infections.
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18
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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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19
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Abdel Baky NA, Al-Najjar AH, Elariny HA, Sallam AS, Mohammed AA. Pramipexole and Lactoferrin ameliorate Cyclophosphamide-Induced haemorrhagic cystitis via targeting Sphk1/S1P/MAPK, TLR-4/NF-κB, and NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β signalling pathways and modulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 112:109282. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Contact Lens Wear Induces Alterations of Lactoferrin Functionality in Human Tears. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14102188. [PMID: 36297623 PMCID: PMC9612143 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102188] [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: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The tear film is a complex matrix composed of several molecular classes, from small metal ions to macromolecules. Contact lens (CL) wear can affect the protein homeostasis of the tear film, by accumulating deposits on the CL surface and/or altering their structural and functional properties. This work investigates the effect of CL wear on lactoferrin (Lf), one of the most abundant tear proteins, known as an unspecific biomarker of inflammation. Tears from eight volunteers were collected and analyzed after alternated periods of CL wear and without CL. The experimental approach is to probe Lf into unprocessed human tears by the peculiar fluorescence emission originating from complex formation of Lf with terbium (Tb3+) at the iron-binding sites. The experimental data indicate that CL wear does not significantly affect the total amount of Lf. On the other hand, Lf affinity for Tb3+ is reduced upon CL wear, suggesting relevant changes in Lf structure and possible alterations of protein functionality. Future studies based on this approach will help define CL features (material, lens-care solution, wearing time, etc.) with minimal effects on tear protein activity, in order to obtain more biocompatible and comfortable devices.
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21
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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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22
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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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23
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Kell DB, Pretorius E. The potential role of ischaemia-reperfusion injury in chronic, relapsing diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Long COVID, and ME/CFS: evidence, mechanisms, and therapeutic implications. Biochem J 2022; 479:1653-1708. [PMID: 36043493 PMCID: PMC9484810 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ischaemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury, initiated via bursts of reactive oxygen species produced during the reoxygenation phase following hypoxia, is well known in a variety of acute circumstances. We argue here that I-R injury also underpins elements of the pathology of a variety of chronic, inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, ME/CFS and, our chief focus and most proximally, Long COVID. Ischaemia may be initiated via fibrin amyloid microclot blockage of capillaries, for instance as exercise is started; reperfusion is a necessary corollary when it finishes. We rehearse the mechanistic evidence for these occurrences here, in terms of their manifestation as oxidative stress, hyperinflammation, mast cell activation, the production of marker metabolites and related activities. Such microclot-based phenomena can explain both the breathlessness/fatigue and the post-exertional malaise that may be observed in these conditions, as well as many other observables. The recognition of these processes implies, mechanistically, that therapeutic benefit is potentially to be had from antioxidants, from anti-inflammatories, from iron chelators, and via suitable, safe fibrinolytics, and/or anti-clotting agents. We review the considerable existing evidence that is consistent with this, and with the biochemical mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B. Kell
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, U.K
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 200, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1 Matieland 7602, South Africa
| | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, U.K
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1 Matieland 7602, South Africa
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24
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Li Y, Dong L, Mu Z, Liu L, Yang J, Wu Z, Pan D, Liu L. Research Advances of Lactoferrin in Electrostatic Spinning, Nano Self-Assembly, and Immune and Gut Microbiota Regulation. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:10075-10089. [PMID: 35968926 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c04241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a naturally present iron-binding globulin with the structural properties of an N-lobe strongly positively charged terminus and a cage-like structure of nano self-assembly encapsulation. These unique structural properties give it potential for development in the fields of electrostatic spinning, targeted delivery systems, and the gut-brain axis. This review will provide an overview of LF's unique structure, encapsulation, and targeted transport capabilities, as well as its applications in immunity and gut microbiota regulation. First, the microstructure of LF is summarized and compared with its homologous ferritin, revealing both structural and functional similarities and differences between them. Second, the electrostatic interactions of LF and its application in electrostatic spinning are summarized. Its positive charge properties can be applied to functional environmental protection packaging materials and to improving drug stability and antiviral effects, while electrostatic spinning can promote bone regeneration and anti-inflammatory effects. Then the nano self-assembly behavior of LF is exploited as a cage-like protein to encapsulate bioactive substances to construct functional targeted delivery systems for applications such as contrast agents, antibacterial dressings, anti-cancer therapy, and gene delivery. In addition, some covalent and noncovalent interactions of LF in the Maillard reaction and protein interactions and other topics are briefly discussed. Finally, LF may affect immunological function via controlling the gut microbiota. In conclusion, this paper reviews the research advances of LF in electrostatic spinning, nano self-assembly, and immune and gut microbiota regulation, aiming to provide a reference for its application in the food and pharmaceutical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Deep Processing Technology of Zhejiang, School of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, PR China
| | - Lezhen Dong
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Deep Processing Technology of Zhejiang, School of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, PR China
| | - Zhishen Mu
- Inner Mongolia Enterprise Technology Center, Inner Mongolia Mengniu Dairy (Group) Co., Ltd., Huhhot 011500, PR China
| | - Lingyi Liu
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska─Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588-6205, United States
| | - Junsi Yang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska─Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588-6205, United States
| | - Zufang Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Deep Processing Technology of Zhejiang, School of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, PR China
| | - Daodong Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Deep Processing Technology of Zhejiang, School of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, PR China
| | - Lianliang Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Deep Processing Technology of Zhejiang, School of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, PR China
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25
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Notarbartolo V, Montante C, Ferrante G, Giuffrè M. Antioxidant Effects of Dietary Supplements on Adult COVID-19 Patients: Why Do We Not Also Use Them in Children? Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091638. [PMID: 36139712 PMCID: PMC9495518 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are very common in children, especially in the first five years of life, and several viruses, such as the influenza virus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Rhinovirus, are triggers for symptoms that usually affect the upper airways. It has been known that during respiratory viral infections, a condition of oxidative stress (OS) occurs, and many studies have suggested the potential use of antioxidants as complementary components in prophylaxis and/or therapy of respiratory viral infections. Preliminary data have demonstrated that antioxidants may also interfere with the new coronavirus 2’s entry and replication in human cells, and that they have a role in the downregulation of several pathogenetic mechanisms involved in disease severity. Starting from preclinical data, the aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the current evidence about the main antioxidants that are potentially useful for preventing and treating Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in adults and to speculate on their possible use in children by exploring the most relevant issues affecting their use in clinical practice, as well as the associated evidence gaps and research limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Notarbartolo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudio Montante
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuliana Ferrante
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, Pediatric Division, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Mario Giuffrè
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
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26
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Ohradanova-Repic A, Skrabana R, Gebetsberger L, Tajti G, Baráth P, Ondrovičová G, Praženicová R, Jantova N, Hrasnova P, Stockinger H, Leksa V. Blockade of TMPRSS2-mediated priming of SARS-CoV-2 by lactoferricin. Front Immunol 2022; 13:958581. [PMID: 36081512 PMCID: PMC9445877 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.958581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to vaccines, there is an urgent need for supplemental antiviral therapeutics to dampen the persistent COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), that is responsible for proteolytic priming of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, appears as a rational therapeutic target. Accordingly, selective inhibitors of TMPRSS2 represent potential tools for prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Previously, we identified the human milk glycoprotein lactoferrin as a natural inhibitor of plasminogen conversion to plasmin, a serine protease homologous to TMPRSS2. Here, we tested whether lactoferrin and lactoferricin, a biologically active natural peptide produced by pepsin-mediated digestion of lactoferrin, together with synthetic peptides derived from lactoferrin, were able to block TMPRSS2 and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Particularly, we revealed that both lactoferricin and the N-terminal synthetic peptide pLF1 significantly inhibited: i) proteolytic activity of TMPRSS2 and plasmin, ii) proteolytic processing of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and iii) SARS-CoV-2 infection of SARS-CoV-2-permissive cells. Thus, natural and synthetic peptides derived from lactoferrin represent feasible candidates for supporting prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ohradanova-Repic
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Vladimir Leksa, ; Anna Ohradanova-Repic,
| | - Rostislav Skrabana
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Laura Gebetsberger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabor Tajti
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Baráth
- Department of Glycobiology, Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Gabriela Ondrovičová
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Romana Praženicová
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Biochemistry, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Nikola Jantova
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Biochemistry, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Patricia Hrasnova
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Biochemistry, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Hannes Stockinger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vladimir Leksa
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Vladimir Leksa, ; Anna Ohradanova-Repic,
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27
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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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Madkour AH, Helal MG, Said E, Salem HA. Dose-dependent renoprotective impact of Lactoferrin against glycerol-induced rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury. Life Sci 2022; 302:120646. [PMID: 35595070 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120646] [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: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a clinical disorder with a serious impact on the quality of patients' lives. Considering its increased worldwide prevalence, investigating novel therapeutic approaches for the management of AKI has been inevitable. Lactoferrin (LF), a glycoprotein belonging to the transferrin family, is known to play an important role in regulating iron homeostasis. This study aimed to evaluate the renoprotective effect of LF (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg orally) against glycerol (GLY)-induced rhabdomyolysis (RM) in rats. RM was induced by a single intramuscular injection of GLY 50% (10 mL/kg) after 24-h water deprivation in male Sprague-Dawley rats. LF administration conferred significant dose-dependent renoprotective impact against GLY-induced RM as evidenced by the decreased renal/somatic index and the significant improvement in renal functions as confirmed by the significant increase in creatinine clearance, decrease in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, and improvement in albuminuria and proteinuria. Redox homeostasis was significantly restored in a dose-dependent manner as well. Moreover, serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was significantly decreased with a parallel significant decrease in renal NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), caspase-3 expression, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cluster of differentiation (CD68) expression, and a significant increase in renal nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) expression. Ultimately, LF administration was associated with a significant amelioration of GLY-induced renal necrotic and inflammatory alterations. In conclusion, the observed dose-dependent nephroprotective effect of LF can be attributed to its modulatory impact on inflammatory/apoptotic/oxidative signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Madkour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Manar G Helal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Eman Said
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt; Faculty of Pharmacy, New Mansoura University, 7723730 New Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Hatem A Salem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt
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29
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Ward JL, Torres-Gonzalez M, Ammons MCB. The Influence of Viral Infections on Iron Homeostasis and the Potential for Lactoferrin as a Therapeutic in the Age of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Nutrients 2022; 14:3090. [PMID: 35956266 PMCID: PMC9370565 DOI: 10.3390/nu14153090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The association of hyperinflammation and hyperferritinemia with adverse outcomes in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients suggests an integral role for iron homeostasis in pathogenesis, a commonly described symptom of respiratory viral infections. This dysregulated iron homeostasis results in viral-induced lung injury, often lasting long after the acute viral infection; however, much remains to be understood mechanistically. Lactoferrin is a multipurpose glycoprotein with key immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral functions, which can be found in various secreted fluids, but is most abundantly characterized in milk from all mammalian species. Lactoferrin is found at its highest concentrations in primate colostrum; however, the abundant availability of bovine-dairy-derived lactoferrin (bLf) has led to the use of bLf as a functional food. The recent research has demonstrated the potential value of bovine lactoferrin as a therapeutic adjuvant against SARS-CoV-2, and herein this research is reviewed and the potential mechanisms of therapeutic targeting are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L Ward
- Medical Student, College of Osteopathic Medicine, William Carey University, Hattiesburg, MI 39401, USA
| | | | - Mary Cloud B Ammons
- Associate Research Scientist, IVREF, Boise VA Medical Center, Boise, ID 83702, USA
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30
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Infection Rate of Respiratory Viruses in the Pandemic SARS-CoV-2 Period Considering Symptomatic Patients: Two Years of Ongoing Observations. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070987. [PMID: 35883543 PMCID: PMC9313449 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last two years, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has determined radical changes in human behaviors and lifestyles, with a drastic reduction in socialization due to physical distancing and self-isolation. These changes have also been reflected in the epidemiological patterns of common respiratory viruses. For this reason, early discrimination of respiratory viruses is important as new variants emerge. METHODS Nasopharyngeal swabs of 2554 patients, with clinically suspected Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) from October 2019 to November 2021, were collected to detect 1 or more of the 23 common respiratory pathogens, especially viruses, via BioFilmArray RP2.1plus, including SARS-CoV-2. Demographical characteristics and epidemiological analyses were performed as well as a laboratory features profile of positive patients. RESULTS An observational study on 2300 patients (254 patients were excluded because of missing data) including 1560 men and 760 women, median age of 64.5 years, was carried out. Considering the respiratory virus research request, most of the patients were admitted to the Emergency Medicine Department (41.2%, of patients), whereas 29.5% were admitted to the Infectious Diseases Department. The most frequently detected pathogens included SARS-CoV-2 (31.06%, 707/2300, from March 2020 to November 2021), InfA-B (1.86%, 43/2300), HCoV (2.17% 50/2300), and HSRV (1.65%, 38/2300). Interestingly, coinfection rates decreased dramatically in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic period. The significative decrease in positive rate of SARS-CoV-2 was associated with the massive vaccination. CONCLUSION This study represents a dynamic picture of the epidemiological curve of common respiratory viruses during the two years of pandemic, with a disregarded trend for additional viruses. Our results showed that SARS-CoV-2 had a preferential tropism for the respiratory tract without co-existing with other viruses. The possible causes were attributable either to the use of masks, social isolation, or to specific respiratory receptors mostly available for this virus, external and internal lifestyle factors, vaccination campaigns, and emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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31
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Dao HM, Sahakijpijarn S, Chrostowski RR, Moon C, Mangolini F, Cui Z, Williams RO. Aggregation of Lactoferrin Caused by Droplet Atomization Process via a Two-Fluid Nozzle: The Detrimental Effect of Air-Water Interfaces. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:2662-2675. [PMID: 35639017 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Biological macromolecules, especially therapeutic proteins, are delicate and highly sensitive to denaturation from stresses encountered during the manufacture of dosage forms. Thin-film freeze-drying (TFFD) and spray freeze-drying (SFD) are two processes used to convert liquid forms of protein into dry powders. In the production of inhalable dry powders that contain proteins, these potential stressors fall into three categories based on their occurrence during the primary steps of the process: (1) droplet formation (e.g., the mechanism of droplet formation, including spray atomization), (2) freezing, and (3) frozen water removal (e.g., sublimation). This study compares the droplet formation mechanism used in TFFD and SFD by investigating the effects of spraying on the stability of proteins, using lactoferrin as a model. This study considers various perspectives on the denaturation (e.g., conformation) of lactoferrin after subjecting the protein solution to the atomization process using a pneumatic two-fluid nozzle (employed in SFD) or a low-shear drop application through the nozzle. The surface activity of lactoferrin was examined to explore the interfacial adsorption tendency, diffusion, and denaturation process. Subsequently, this study also investigates the secondary and tertiary structure of lactoferrin and the quantification of monomers, oligomers, and, ultimately, aggregates. The spraying process affected the tertiary structure more negatively than the tightly woven secondary structure, resulting in the peak position corresponding to the tryptophan (Trp) residues red-shifting by 1.5 nm. This conformational change can either (a) be reversed at low concentrations via relaxation or (b) proceed to form irreversible aggregates at higher concentrations. Interestingly, when the sample was allowed to progress into micrometer-sized aggregates, such a dramatic change was not detected using methods such as size-exclusion chromatography, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and dynamic light scattering at 173°. A more complete understanding of the heterogeneous protein sample was achieved only through a combination of 173 and 13° backward and forward scattering, a combination of derived count rate measurements, and microflow imaging (MFI). After studying the impact of droplet formation mechanisms on aggregation tendency of lactoferrin, we further investigated two additional model proteins with different surface activity: bovine IgG (serving as a non surface-active negative reference), and β-galactosidase (another surface-active protein). The results corroborated the lactoferrin findings that spray-atomization-related stress-induced protein aggregation was much more pronounced for proteins that are surface active (lactoferrin and β-galactosidase), but it was minimal for non-surface-active protein (bovine IgG). Finally, compared to the low-shear dripping used in the TFFD process, lactoferrin underwent a relatively fast conformational change upon exposure to the high air-water interface of the two-fluid atomization nozzle used in the SFD process as compared to the low shear dripping used in the TFFD process. The interfacial-induced denaturation that occurred during spraying was governed primarily by the size of the atomized droplets, regardless of the duration of exposure to air. The percentage of denatured protein population and associated activity loss, in the case of β-galactosidase, was determined to range from 2 to 10% depending on the air-flow rate of the spraying process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy M Dao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
| | | | - Robert R Chrostowski
- Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
| | - Chaeho Moon
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
| | - Filippo Mangolini
- Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
- Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
| | - Zhengrong Cui
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
| | - Robert O Williams
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas78712, United States
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32
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Liu C, Peng Q, Wei L, Li Z, Zhang X, Wu Y, Wang J, Zheng X, Wen Y, Zheng R, Yan Q, Ye Q, Ma J. Deficiency of Lactoferrin aggravates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute inflammation via recruitment macrophage in mice. Biometals 2022; 36:549-562. [PMID: 35650365 PMCID: PMC9159647 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-022-00398-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), a multiple functional natural immune protein, is widely distributed in mammalian milk and glandular secretions (bile, saliva, tears and nasal mucosal secretions, etc.). In the previous study, we found that Lf plays an anti-inflammatory and anti-tumorigenesis role in AOM/DSS (azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium) induced mouse colitis-associated colon cancer model.
Although we found that Lf has anti-inflammatory effects in chronic inflammation, its specific role and mechanisms in acute inflammation have not been clarified. Here, we reported that the expression levels of Lf were significantly increased when the organism was infected by Gram-negative bacteria. We then explored the role and potential mechanism of Lf in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute inflammation. In the LPS-induced acute abdominal inflammation model, Lf deficiency aggravated inflammatory response and promoted macrophage chemotaxis to the inflammation site. Lf inhibited macrophage chemotaxis by suppressing the expression of macrophage-associated chemokines Ccl2 and Ccl5. Highly activated NF-κB signaling in Lf−/− mice was responsible for the high expression of Ccl2 and Ccl5. Our results suggested that the anti-inflammatory effect of Lf offers a new potential treatment for acute inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Liu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Qiu Peng
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Lingyu Wei
- Department of Pathology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhengshuo Li
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyue Zhang
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Yangge Wu
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Immunology, Heping Hospital Affiliated to Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiang Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuqing Wen
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Run Zheng
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China
| | - Qun Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiurong Ye
- Department of Pathology, People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
| | - Jian Ma
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Changsha, China.
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33
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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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34
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Xia X, Zhang C, Li L, Wang S, Ding X, He J, Xu S, Wang M. Bovine Lactoferrin Alleviates Pulmonary Lipid Peroxidation and Inflammatory Damage in Heat Stroke Rats. Ther Hypothermia Temp Manag 2022; 12:223-228. [PMID: 35605088 DOI: 10.1089/ther.2022.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung injury occurring in the early stage of heat stroke (HS) leads to hypoxia and further aggravation of other organic damage. Lactoferrin (LF) is an iron binding protein with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study focuses on the protection of preadministration of bovine lactoferrin (BLF) against lung injury in rats with HS. Sixty-four Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into four groups randomly: control (CON)+phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (n = 16), HS+PBS (n = 16), HS+low-dose BLF (LBLF) (n = 16), and HS+high-dose BLF (HBLF) (n = 16). CON+PBS and HS+PBS were preadministered 10 mL/kg PBS for 1 week. HS+LBLF and HS+HBLF were preadministered 100 and 200 mg/kg BLF for 1 week, respectively. The HS onset time and the survival rate were recorded, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained to measure protein concentration. Lung was obtained for pathological analysis and wet/dry weight ratio measurement; later, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured in lung tissue homogenate. The results indicated that BLF preadministration could delay the HS onset time, enhance the survival rate, the levels of serum inflammatory cytokine and MDA content in HS+LBLF and HS+HBLF showed significant reduction compared with HS+PBS, while a significant elevation of SOD activity and reduction of MPO activity in HS+HBLF. Our results demonstrate that BLF preadministration could relieve lung injury in HS rats by enhancing thermal endurance, and alleviating serum inflammatory response and pulmonary oxidative stress damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Xia
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Emergency, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenjie Zhang
- Department of Vasculocardiology, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Emergency, The Second Naval Hospital of Southern Theater Command of PLA, Hainan, China
| | - Shaokang Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xian Ding
- Department of Emergency, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian He
- Department of Emergency, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuogui Xu
- Department of Orthopedic Trauma, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meitang Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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35
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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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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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Ohshima H, Mishima K, Amizuka N. Oral biosciences: The annual review 2021. J Oral Biosci 2022; 64:1-7. [PMID: 35143953 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2022.02.001] [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: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Journal of Oral Biosciences is devoted to advancing and disseminating fundamental knowledge concerning every aspect of oral biosciences. HIGHLIGHT This review features review articles in the fields of "Extracellular Vesicles," "Propolis," "Odontogenic Tumors," "Periodontitis," "Periodontium," "Flavonoids," "Lactoferrin," "Dental Plaque," "Anatomy," "Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells," "Bone Cell Biology," "Dysgeusia," "Dental Caries," and "Dental Pulp Cavity," in addition to the review article by the winners of the "Lion Award" ("Sox9 function in salivary gland development") presented by the Japanese Association for Oral Biology. CONCLUSION These reviews in the Journal of Oral Biosciences have inspired its readers to broaden their knowledge regarding various aspects of oral biosciences. The current editorial review introduces these exciting review articles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Ohshima
- Division of Anatomy and Cell Biology of the Hard Tissue, Department of Tissue Regeneration and Reconstruction, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 2-5274 Gakkocho-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8514, Japan.
| | - Kenji Mishima
- Division of Pathology, Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, Showa University School of Dentistry, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 142-8555, Japan
| | - Norio Amizuka
- Department of Developmental Biology of Hard Tissue, Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 13 Nishi 7 Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8586, Japan
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Govers C, Calder PC, Savelkoul HFJ, Albers R, van Neerven RJJ. Ingestion, Immunity, and Infection: Nutrition and Viral Respiratory Tract Infections. Front Immunol 2022; 13:841532. [PMID: 35296080 PMCID: PMC8918570 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.841532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiratory infections place a heavy burden on the health care system, particularly in the winter months. Individuals with a vulnerable immune system, such as very young children and the elderly, and those with an immune deficiency, are at increased risk of contracting a respiratory infection. Most respiratory infections are relatively mild and affect the upper respiratory tract only, but other infections can be more serious. These can lead to pneumonia and be life-threatening in vulnerable groups. Rather than focus entirely on treating the symptoms of infectious disease, optimizing immune responsiveness to the pathogens causing these infections may help steer towards a more favorable outcome. Nutrition may have a role in such prevention through different immune supporting mechanisms. Nutrition contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, with various nutrients acting as energy sources and building blocks during the immune response. Many micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) act as regulators of molecular responses of immune cells to infection. It is well described that chronic undernutrition as well as specific micronutrient deficiencies impair many aspects of the immune response and make individuals more susceptible to infectious diseases, especially in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. In addition, other dietary components such as proteins, pre-, pro- and synbiotics, and also animal- and plant-derived bioactive components can further support the immune system. Both the innate and adaptive defense systems contribute to active antiviral respiratory tract immunity. The initial response to viral airway infections is through recognition by the innate immune system of viral components leading to activation of adaptive immune cells in the form of cytotoxic T cells, the production of neutralizing antibodies and the induction of memory T and B cell responses. The aim of this review is to describe the effects of a range different dietary components on anti-infective innate as well as adaptive immune responses and to propose mechanisms by which they may interact with the immune system in the respiratory tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coen Govers
- Cell Biology and Immunology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Philip C. Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Huub F. J. Savelkoul
- Cell Biology and Immunology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - R. J. Joost van Neerven
- Cell Biology and Immunology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Research & Development, FrieslandCampina, Amersfoort, Netherlands
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Ivanova N, Sotirova Y, Gavrailov G, Nikolova K, Andonova V. Advances in the Prophylaxis of Respiratory Infections by the Nasal and the Oromucosal Route: Relevance to the Fight with the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:530. [PMID: 35335905 PMCID: PMC8953301 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this time of COVID-19 pandemic, the strategies for prevention of the infection are a primary concern. Looking more globally on the subject and acknowledging the high degree of misuse of protective face masks from the population, we focused this review on alternative pharmaceutical developments eligible for self-defense against respiratory infections. In particular, the attention herein is directed to the nasal and oromucosal formulations intended to boost the local immunity, neutralize or mechanically "trap" the pathogens at the site of entry (nose or mouth). The current work presents a critical review of the contemporary methods of immune- and chemoprophylaxis and their suitability and applicability in topical mucosal dosage forms for SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda Ivanova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 55 Marin Drinov Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (Y.S.); (G.G.); (V.A.)
| | - Yoana Sotirova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 55 Marin Drinov Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (Y.S.); (G.G.); (V.A.)
| | - Georgi Gavrailov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 55 Marin Drinov Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (Y.S.); (G.G.); (V.A.)
| | - Krastena Nikolova
- Department of Physics and Biophysics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 55 Marin Drinov Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria;
| | - Velichka Andonova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, 55 Marin Drinov Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria; (Y.S.); (G.G.); (V.A.)
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The Role of Nutrients in Prevention, Treatment and Post-Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19). Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14051000. [PMID: 35267974 PMCID: PMC8912782 DOI: 10.3390/nu14051000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 virus, infecting human cells via its spike protein, causes Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is characterized by shortness of breath, fever, and pneumonia and is sometimes fatal. Unfortunately, to date, there is still no definite therapy to treat COVID-19. Therefore, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved only supportive care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to maintain a correct intake of nutrients to support very weakened patients in overcoming disease arose. The literature available on nutrient intake for COVID-19 is mainly focused on prevention. However, the safe intake of micro- and/or macro-nutrients can be useful either for preventing infection and supporting the immune response during COVID-19, as well as in the post-acute phase, i.e., “long COVID”, that is sometimes characterized by the onset of various long lasting and disabling symptoms. The aim of this review is to focus on the role of nutrient intake during all the different phases of the disease, including prevention, the acute phase, and finally long COVID.
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Kell DB, Laubscher GJ, Pretorius E. A central role for amyloid fibrin microclots in long COVID/PASC: origins and therapeutic implications. Biochem J 2022; 479:537-559. [PMID: 35195253 PMCID: PMC8883497 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Post-acute sequelae of COVID (PASC), usually referred to as 'Long COVID' (a phenotype of COVID-19), is a relatively frequent consequence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, in which symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, 'brain fog', tissue damage, inflammation, and coagulopathies (dysfunctions of the blood coagulation system) persist long after the initial infection. It bears similarities to other post-viral syndromes, and to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Many regulatory health bodies still do not recognize this syndrome as a separate disease entity, and refer to it under the broad terminology of 'COVID', although its demographics are quite different from those of acute COVID-19. A few years ago, we discovered that fibrinogen in blood can clot into an anomalous 'amyloid' form of fibrin that (like other β-rich amyloids and prions) is relatively resistant to proteolysis (fibrinolysis). The result, as is strongly manifested in platelet-poor plasma (PPP) of individuals with Long COVID, is extensive fibrin amyloid microclots that can persist, can entrap other proteins, and that may lead to the production of various autoantibodies. These microclots are more-or-less easily measured in PPP with the stain thioflavin T and a simple fluorescence microscope. Although the symptoms of Long COVID are multifarious, we here argue that the ability of these fibrin amyloid microclots (fibrinaloids) to block up capillaries, and thus to limit the passage of red blood cells and hence O2 exchange, can actually underpin the majority of these symptoms. Consistent with this, in a preliminary report, it has been shown that suitable and closely monitored 'triple' anticoagulant therapy that leads to the removal of the microclots also removes the other symptoms. Fibrin amyloid microclots represent a novel and potentially important target for both the understanding and treatment of Long COVID and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B. Kell
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, U.K
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 200, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | | | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
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Kammoun N, Kouki C, Hammami F, Sellami K, Rekik M, Bahloul E, Chtioui E, Amouri M, Masmoudi A, Turki H. The red half-moon nail sign: a new case report. J Cosmet Dermatol 2022; 21:5248-5249. [PMID: 35166013 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N Kammoun
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - C Kouki
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - F Hammami
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - K Sellami
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - M Rekik
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - E Bahloul
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - E Chtioui
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - M Amouri
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - A Masmoudi
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - H Turki
- Department of Dermatology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
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Gallo V, Giansanti F, Arienzo A, Antonini G. Antiviral properties of whey proteins and their activity against SARS-CoV-2 infection. J Funct Foods 2022; 89:104932. [PMID: 35003332 PMCID: PMC8723829 DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2022.104932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Native and chemically modified whey proteins and their peptide derivatives are encountering the interest of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, due to the numerous properties, ranging from antimicrobial to immunological and antitumorigenic, that result in the possibility to employ milk and its protein components in a wide range of treatment and prevention strategies. Importantly, whey proteins were found to exert antiviral actions against different enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Recently, the scientific community is focusing on these proteins, especially lactoferrin, since in vitro studies have demonstrated that they exert an important antiviral activity also against SARS-CoV-2. Up-to date, several studies are investigating the efficacy of lactoferrin and other whey proteins in vivo. Aim of this review is to shed light on the most relevant findings concerning the antiviral properties of whey proteins and their potential applications in human health, focussing on their application in prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Gallo
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University, Rome 00146, Italy
| | - Francesco Giansanti
- Interuniversity Consortium INBB - Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome 00136, Italy
- Department of Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila I-67100, Italy
| | - Alyexandra Arienzo
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University, Rome 00146, Italy
- Interuniversity Consortium INBB - Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome 00136, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- Department of Sciences, Roma Tre University, Rome 00146, Italy
- Interuniversity Consortium INBB - Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome 00136, Italy
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Reijnders TDY, Schuurman AR, van der Poll T. The Immune Response to Respiratory Viruses: From Start to Memory. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2021; 42:759-770. [PMID: 34918319 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1736459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Biomedical research has long strived to improve our understanding of the immune response to respiratory viral infections, an effort that has become all the more important as we live through the consequences of a pandemic. The disease course of these infections is shaped in large part by the actions of various cells of the innate and adaptive immune systems. While these cells are crucial in clearing viral pathogens and establishing long-term immunity, their effector mechanisms may also escalate into excessive, tissue-destructive inflammation detrimental to the host. In this review, we describe the breadth of the immune response to infection with respiratory viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus. Throughout, we focus on the host rather than the pathogen and try to describe shared patterns in the host response to different viruses. We start with the local cells of the airways, onto the recruitment and activation of innate and adaptive immune cells, followed by the establishment of local and systemic memory cells key in protection against reinfection. We end by exploring how respiratory viral infections can predispose to bacterial superinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom D Y Reijnders
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alex R Schuurman
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tom van der Poll
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Tosta E. The seven constitutive respiratory defense barriers against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2021; 54:e04612021. [PMID: 34932765 PMCID: PMC8687496 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0461-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Before eliciting an adaptive immune response, SARS-CoV-2 must overcome seven constitutive respiratory defense barriers. The first is the mucus covering the respiratory tract's luminal surface, which entraps inhaled particles, including infectious agents, and eliminates them by mucociliary clearance. The second barrier comprises various components present in the airway lining fluid, the surfactants. Besides providing low surface tension that allows efficient gas exchange at the alveoli, surfactants inhibit the invasion of epithelial cells by respiratory viruses, enhance pathogen uptake by phagocytes, and regulate immune cells' functions. The respiratory tract microbiota constitutes the third defense barrier against SARS-CoV-2. It activates the innate and adaptive immune cells and elicits anti-infectious molecules such as secretory IgA antibodies, defensins, and interferons. The fourth defense barrier comprises the antimicrobial peptides defensins, and lactoferrin. They show direct antiviral activity, inhibit viral fusion, and modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses. Secretory IgA antibodies, the fifth defense barrier, besides protecting the local microbiota against noxious agents, also inhibit SARS-CoV-2 cell invasion. If the virus overcomes this barrier, it reaches its target, the respiratory epithelial cells. However, these cells also act as a defense barrier, the sixth one, since they hinder the virus' access to receptors and produce antiviral and immunomodulatory molecules such as interferons, lactoferrin, and defensins. Finally, the sensing of the virus by the cells of innate immunity, the last constitutive defense barrier, elicits a cascade of signals that activate adaptive immune cells and may inhibit the development of productive infection. The subject of the present essay is discussing these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Tosta
- Professor Emeritus, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF , Brasil
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Lactotransferrin Downregulation Serves as a Potential Predictor for the Therapeutic Effectiveness of mTOR Inhibitors in the Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma without PTEN Mutation. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121896. [PMID: 34944711 PMCID: PMC8698394 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30% of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients develop metastatic spread at the first diagnosis. Therefore, identifying a useful biomarker to predict ccRCC metastasis or therapeutic effectiveness in ccRCC patients is urgently needed. Previously, we demonstrated that lactotransferrin (LTF) downregulation enhanced the metastatic potential of ccRCC. Here, we show that LTF expression conversely associates with the mTORC1 activity as simulated by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Moreover, Western blot analyses revealed that the LTF knockdown promoted, but the inclusion of recombinant human LTF protein suppressed, the phosphorylation of Akt/mTOR proteins in the detected ccRCC cells. Kaplan–Meier analyses demonstrated that the signature of combining an upregulated mTORC1 activity with a downregulated LTF expression referred to a worse overall and progression-free survival probabilities and associated with distant cancer metastasis in TCGA ccRCC patients. Furthermore, we found that the LTF-suppressed Akt/mTOR activation triggered an increased formation of autophagy in the highly metastatic ccRCC cells. The addition of autophagy inhibitor 3-methyadenine restored the LTF-suppressed cellular migration ability of highly metastatic ccRCC cells. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses showed that the expression of the LTF and MTORC1 gene set, not the autophagy gene set, could be the useful biomarkers to predict 5-year overall survival rate and cancer progression in ccRCC patients. Significantly, the signature of combining mTORC1 upregulation and LTF downregulation was shown as an independent prognostic factor in a multivariate analysis under the progression-free survival condition using the TCGA ccRCC database. Finally, the treatment with mTOR inhibitor rapamycin predominantly reduced the formation of autophagy and ultimately mitigated the cellular migration ability of ccRCC cells with LTF knockdown. Our findings suggest that LTF downregulation is a biomarker for guiding the use of mTOR inhibitors to combat metastatic ccRCC in the clinic.
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Islam F, Bibi S, Meem AFK, Islam MM, Rahaman MS, Bepary S, Rahman MM, Rahman MM, Elzaki A, Kajoak S, Osman H, ElSamani M, Khandaker MU, Idris AM, Emran TB. Natural Bioactive Molecules: An Alternative Approach to the Treatment and Control of COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12638. [PMID: 34884440 PMCID: PMC8658031 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Several coronaviruses (CoVs) have been associated with serious health hazards in recent decades, resulting in the deaths of thousands around the globe. The recent coronavirus pandemic has emphasized the importance of discovering novel and effective antiviral medicines as quickly as possible to prevent more loss of human lives. Positive-sense RNA viruses with group spikes protruding from their surfaces and an abnormally large RNA genome enclose CoVs. CoVs have already been related to a range of respiratory infectious diseases possibly fatal to humans, such as MERS, SARS, and the current COVID-19 outbreak. As a result, effective prevention, treatment, and medications against human coronavirus (HCoV) is urgently needed. In recent years, many natural substances have been discovered with a variety of biological significance, including antiviral properties. Throughout this work, we reviewed a wide range of natural substances that interrupt the life cycles for MERS and SARS, as well as their potential application in the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahadul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Shabana Bibi
- Yunnan Herbal Laboratory, College of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China;
- International Joint Research Center for Sustainable Utilization of Cordyceps Bioresources in China and Southeast Asia, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Atkia Farzana Khan Meem
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Md. Mohaimenul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Md. Saidur Rahaman
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Sristy Bepary
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Md. Mizanur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Md. Mominur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh; (F.I.); (A.F.K.M.); (M.M.I.); (M.S.R.); (S.B.); (M.M.R.); (M.M.R.)
| | - Amin Elzaki
- Department of Radiological Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (A.E.); (S.K.); (H.O.); (M.E.)
| | - Samih Kajoak
- Department of Radiological Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (A.E.); (S.K.); (H.O.); (M.E.)
| | - Hamid Osman
- Department of Radiological Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (A.E.); (S.K.); (H.O.); (M.E.)
| | - Mohamed ElSamani
- Department of Radiological Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (A.E.); (S.K.); (H.O.); (M.E.)
| | - Mayeen Uddin Khandaker
- Centre for Applied Physics and Radiation Technologies, School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Abubakr M. Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia;
- Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
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Presti S, Manti S, Parisi GF, Papale M, Barbagallo IA, Li Volti G, Leonardi S. Lactoferrin: Cytokine Modulation and Application in Clinical Practice. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10235482. [PMID: 34884183 PMCID: PMC8658270 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple properties of lactoferrin have been reported in the literature so far. Decades of in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the important antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulating properties. It suggests the use of lactoferrin as an effective and safe option for the treatment of several common disorders. Herein, we show the applications of lactoferrin in clinical practice, highlighting its evidence-based capacities for the treatment of heterogeneous disorders, such as allergic, gastrointestinal, and respiratory diseases, and hematologic, oncologic, gynecologic, dermatologic, and dental disorders. Moreover, the widespread use of lactoferrin in neonatology is summarized here. As a result of its antiviral properties, lactoferrin has also been proposed as a valid option for the treatment for COVID-19 patients. Here, the uses of lactoferrin in clinical practice as a new, safe, and evidence-based treatment for many types of disorders are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Presti
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.); (G.F.P.); (M.P.); (S.L.)
| | - Sara Manti
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.); (G.F.P.); (M.P.); (S.L.)
| | - Giuseppe Fabio Parisi
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.); (G.F.P.); (M.P.); (S.L.)
| | - Maria Papale
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.); (G.F.P.); (M.P.); (S.L.)
| | | | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-4781157
| | - Salvatore Leonardi
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (S.P.); (S.M.); (G.F.P.); (M.P.); (S.L.)
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50
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Saied EM, El-Maradny YA, Osman AA, Darwish AMG, Abo Nahas HH, Niedbała G, Piekutowska M, Abdel-Rahman MA, Balbool BA, Abdel-Azeem AM. A Comprehensive Review about the Molecular Structure of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2): Insights into Natural Products against COVID-19. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1759. [PMID: 34834174 PMCID: PMC8624722 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2019, the world suffered from the emergence of COVID-19 infection, one of the most difficult pandemics in recent history. Millions of confirmed deaths from this pandemic have been reported worldwide. This disaster was caused by SARS-CoV-2, which is the last discovered member of the family of Coronaviridae. Various studies have shown that natural compounds have effective antiviral properties against coronaviruses by inhibiting multiple viral targets, including spike proteins and viral enzymes. This review presents the classification and a detailed explanation of the SARS-CoV-2 molecular characteristics and structure-function relationships. We present all currently available crystal structures of different SARS-CoV-2 proteins and emphasized on the crystal structure of different virus proteins and the binding modes of their ligands. This review also discusses the various therapeutic approaches for COVID-19 treatment and available vaccinations. In addition, we highlight and compare the existing data about natural compounds extracted from algae, fungi, plants, and scorpion venom that were used as antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, we discuss the repurposing of select approved therapeutic agents that have been used in the treatment of other viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essa M. Saied
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
- Institute for Chemistry, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Brook-Taylor-Str. 2, 12489 Berlin, Germany
| | - Yousra A. El-Maradny
- Microbiology Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt;
| | - Alaa A. Osman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, New Giza University, Newgiza, km 22 Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road, Cairo 12256, Egypt;
| | - Amira M. G. Darwish
- Food Technology Department, Arid Lands Cultivation Research Institute (ALCRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA City), Alexandria 21934, Egypt;
| | - Hebatallah H. Abo Nahas
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (H.H.A.N.); (M.A.A.-R.)
| | - Gniewko Niedbała
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 50, 60-627 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Piekutowska
- Department of Geoecology and Geoinformation, Institute of Biology and Earth Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Partyzantów 27, 76-200 Słupsk, Poland;
| | - Mohamed A. Abdel-Rahman
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt; (H.H.A.N.); (M.A.A.-R.)
| | - Bassem A. Balbool
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, Giza 12585, Egypt;
| | - Ahmed M. Abdel-Azeem
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
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