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Theresa C, Katebe B, Shibao CA, Kirabo A. Arterial stiffness in adults with Long COVID in sub-Saharan Africa. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e70029. [PMID: 39251404 PMCID: PMC11386233 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.70029] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been associated with endothelial damage, and impaired nitric oxide production, which results in arterial stiffness and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Long COVID is a term used to describe the persistence or the development of new symptoms that can occur after an acute infection. Little is known about the association between arterial stiffness and Long COVID. An observational, cross-sectional study in which arterial stiffness was measured with pulse wave velocity (PWV) was carried out in 74 participants between 19 and 40 years old (53 with Long COVID, 21 age and gender-matched controls). Data was collected from participants between 1 and 9 months after acute COVID-19 infection using the Complior analyze unit protocol. The Long COVID group had higher carotid-radial-PWV (crPWV) than controls (10 m/s interquartile range [IQR] 8.5-11.2 m/s) versus 8.8 m/s (IQR 7.7-9.2 m/s) as was their carotid-radial-arterial stiffness index (crASI) (2.26 cm/ms (IQR 1.9-2.56 cm/ms) vs. 2.01 cm/ms (IQR 1.82-2.27 cm/ms); p < 0.05) in both. They also had more type-A waveforms, indicating increased arterial stiffening. Peripheral arterial stiffness was higher in adults with Long COVID than in controls who were never infected with SARS-CoV-2 as noted by the elevated levels of crPWV and crASI among adults with Long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikopela Theresa
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of MedicineLusaka Apex Medical UniversityLusakaZambia
| | - Bwalya Katebe
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of MedicineLusaka Apex Medical UniversityLusakaZambia
| | - Cyndya A. Shibao
- Department of MedicineVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
| | - Annet Kirabo
- Department of MedicineVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
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2
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Finizio A, Pagano P, Napolano A, Froechlich G, Infante L, De Chiara A, Amiranda S, Vitiello E, Totaro S, Capasso C, Raia M, D'Alise AM, de Candia P, Zambrano N, Sasso E. Integrating system biology and intratumor gene therapy by trans-complementing the appropriate co-stimulatory molecule as payload in oncolytic herpes virus. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:1335-1343. [PMID: 38839891 PMCID: PMC11405262 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00790-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Systems biology has been applied at the multi-scale level within the cancer field, improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and enabling precision medicine approaches. While systems biology can expand the knowledge and skills for oncological treatment, it also represents a challenging expedition due to cancer complexity, heterogeneity and diversity not only between different cancer indications, but also in its evolution process through space and time. Here, by characterizing the transcriptional perturbations of the tumor microenvironment induced by oncolytic, we aimed to rationally design a novel armed oncolytic herpes virus. We found that intratumor oncovirotherapy with HSV-1 induces T-cell activation signatures and transcriptionally activates several costimulatory molecules. We identified differentially expressed costimulatory receptors and binding partners, where inducible co-stimulators (ICOS) resulted in the potentially most beneficial targeted therapy. Through an ex-vivo transcriptomic analysis, we explored the potential of arming an oncolytic virus as a combination therapy strategy; in particular, we engineered a targeted herpes virus encoding ICOSL (THV_ICOSL), which resulted in a significant improvement in tumor size control compared to unarmed parental virus. Also, combination with a PD-1 inhibitor enhanced antitumor efficacy as predictable by upregulation of PD-1 and ligands pair (PD-L1/PD-L2) upon oncolytic virus injection. Generation of the human version of this virus encoding hICOSL orthologue effectively and specifically activated human T cells by triggering the ICOS pathway. Our data support the data-driven generation of armed oncolytic viruses as combination immunotherapeutic with checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Finizio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - P Pagano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - A Napolano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - G Froechlich
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | | | - A De Chiara
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - S Amiranda
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - E Vitiello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - S Totaro
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - C Capasso
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - M Raia
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | | | - P de Candia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - N Zambrano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy
| | - E Sasso
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, NA, Italy.
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore S.C.aR.L., Naples, Italy.
- ImGen-T Srl, Viale del Parco Carelli, Napoli, NA, Italy.
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3
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Chikopela T, Mwesigwa N, Masenga SK, Kirabo A, Shibao CA. The Interplay of HIV and Long COVID in Sub-Saharan Africa: Mechanisms of Endothelial Dysfunction. Curr Cardiol Rep 2024; 26:859-871. [PMID: 38958890 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-024-02087-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Long COVID affects approximately 5 million people in Africa. This disease is characterized by persistent symptoms or new onset of symptoms after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Specifically, the most common symptoms include a range of cardiovascular problems such as chest pain, orthostatic intolerance, tachycardia, syncope, and uncontrolled hypertension. Importantly, these conditions appear to have endothelial dysfunction as the common denominator, which is often due to impaired nitric oxide (NO) mechanisms. This review discusses the role of mechanisms contributing to endothelial dysfunction in Long COVID, particularly in people living with HIV. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have reported that increased inflammation and oxidative stress, frequently observed in Long COVID, may contribute to NO dysfunction, ultimately leading to decreased vascular reactivity. These mechanisms have also been reported in people living with HIV. In regions like Africa, where HIV infection is still a major public health challenge with a prevalence of approximately 26 million people in 2022. Specifically, endothelial dysfunction has been reported as a major mechanism that appears to contribute to cardiovascular diseases and the intersection with Long COVID mechanisms is of particular concern. Further, it is well established that this population is more likely to develop Long COVID following infection with SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, concomitant infection with SARS-CoV-2 may lead to accelerated cardiovascular disease. We outline the details of the worsening health problems caused by Long COVID, which exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as endothelial dysfunction. The overlapping mechanisms of HIV and SARS-CoV-2, particularly the prolonged inflammatory response and chronic hypoxia, may increase susceptibility to Long COVID. Addressing these overlapping health issues is critical as it provides clinical entry points for interventions that could improve and enhance outcomes and quality of life for those affected by both HIV and Long COVID in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Chikopela
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Naome Mwesigwa
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37332-0615, USA
| | - Sepiso K Masenga
- HAND Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mulungushi University, Livingstone Campus, Livingstone, Zambia
| | - Annet Kirabo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37332-0615, USA
| | - Cyndya A Shibao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37332-0615, USA.
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Pius-Sadowska E, Kulig P, Niedźwiedź A, Baumert B, Łuczkowska K, Rogińska D, Sobuś A, Ulańczyk Z, Kawa M, Paczkowska E, Parczewski M, Machalińska A, Machaliński B. VEGFR and DPP-IV as Markers of Severe COVID-19 and Predictors of ICU Admission. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17003. [PMID: 38069327 PMCID: PMC10707633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathophysiology of the severe course of COVID-19 is multifactorial and not entirely elucidated. However, it is well known that the hyperinflammatory response and cytokine storm are paramount events leading to further complications. In this paper, we investigated the vascular response in the pathophysiology of severe COVID-19 and aimed to identify novel biomarkers predictive of ICU admission. The study group consisted of 210 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 (age range: 18-93; mean ± SD: 57.78 ± 14.16), while the control group consisted of 80 healthy individuals. We assessed the plasma concentrations of various vascular factors using the Luminex technique. Then, we isolated RNA from blood mononuclear cells and performed a bioinformatics analysis investigating various processes related to vascular response, inflammation and angiogenesis. Our results confirmed that severe COVID-19 is associated with vWF/ADAMTS 13 imbalance. High plasma concentrations of VEGFR and low DPP-IV may be potential predictors of ICU admission. SARS-CoV-2 infection impairs angiogenesis, hinders the generation of nitric oxide, and thus impedes vasodilation. The hypercoagulable state develops mainly in the early stages of the disease, which may contribute to the well-established complications of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Pius-Sadowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Piotr Kulig
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Anna Niedźwiedź
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Bartłomiej Baumert
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Karolina Łuczkowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Dorota Rogińska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Anna Sobuś
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Zofia Ulańczyk
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Miłosz Kawa
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Edyta Paczkowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
| | - Miłosz Parczewski
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Arkońska 4 Street, 71-455 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Anna Machalińska
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Bogusław Machaliński
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.K.); (A.N.); (B.B.); (K.Ł.); (D.R.); (A.S.); (Z.U.); (E.P.)
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Scialò F, Cernera G, Esposito S, Pinchera B, Gentile I, Di Domenico M, Bianco A, Pastore L, Amato F, Castaldo G. The MBL2 genotype relates to COVID-19 severity and may help to select the optimal therapy. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:2143-2149. [PMID: 37313996 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0183] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sars-CoV-2 acute infection is clinically heterogeneous, ranging from asymptomatic cases to patients with a severe, systemic clinical course. Among the involved factors age and preexisting morbidities play a major role; genetic host susceptibility contributes to modulating the clinical expression and outcome of the disease. Mannose-binding lectin is an acute-phase protein that activates the lectin-complement pathway, promotes opsonophagocytosis and modulates inflammation, and is involved in several bacterial and viral infections in humans. Understanding its role in Sars-CoV-2 infection could help select a better therapy. METHODS We studied MBL2 haplotypes in 419 patients with acute COVID-19 in comparison to the general population and related the haplotypes to clinical and laboratory markers of severity. RESULTS We recorded an enhanced frequency of MBL2 null alleles in patients with severe acute COVID-19. The homozygous null genotypes were significantly more frequent in patients with advanced WHO score 4-7 (OR of about 4) and related to more severe inflammation, neutrophilia, and lymphopenia. CONCLUSIONS Subjects with a defective MBL2 genotype (i.e., 0/0) are predisposed to a more severe acute Sars-CoV-2 infection; they may benefit from early replacement therapy with recombinant MBL. Furthermore, a subset of subjects with the A/A MBL genotype develop a relevant increase of serum MBL during the early phases of the disease and develop a more severe pulmonary disease; in these patients, the targeting of the complement may help. Therefore, COVID-19 patients should be tested at hospitalization with serum MBL analysis and MBL2 genotype, to define the optimal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Scialò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Gustavo Cernera
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Biagio Pinchera
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ivan Gentile
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Di Domenico
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione, Università della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Pastore
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Amato
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castaldo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, scarl, Naples, Italy
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6
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Barilli A, Recchia Luciani G, Visigalli R, Sala R, Soli M, Dall’Asta V, Rotoli BM. Cytokine-Induced iNOS in A549 Alveolar Epithelial Cells: A Potential Role in COVID-19 Lung Pathology. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2699. [PMID: 37893073 PMCID: PMC10603955 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102699] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In COVID-19, an uncontrolled inflammatory response might worsen lung damage, leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Recent evidence points to the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2/iNOS) as a component of inflammatory response since NOS2 is upregulated in critical COVID-19 patients. Here, we explore the mechanisms underlying the modulation of iNOS expression in human alveolar cells. METHODS A549 WT and IRF1 KO cells were exposed to a conditioned medium of macrophages treated with SARS-CoV-2 spike S1. Additionally, the effect of IFNγ, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNFα, either alone or combined, was addressed. iNOS expression was assessed with RT-qPCR and Western blot. The effect of baricitinib and CAPE, inhibitors of JAK/STAT and NF-kB, respectively, was also investigated. RESULTS Treatment with a conditioned medium caused a marked induction of iNOS in A549 WT and a weak stimulation in IRF1 KO. IFNγ induced NOS2 and synergistically cooperated with IL-1β and TNFα. The inhibitory pattern of baricitinb and CAPE indicates that cytokines activate both IRF1 and NF-κB through the JAK/STAT1 pathway. CONCLUSIONS Cytokines secreted by S1-activated macrophages markedly induce iNOS, whose expression is suppressed by baricitinib. Our findings sustain the therapeutic efficacy of this drug in COVID-19 since, besides limiting the cytokine storm, it also prevents NOS2 induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Barilli
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (A.B.)
| | - Giulia Recchia Luciani
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (A.B.)
| | - Rossana Visigalli
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (A.B.)
| | - Roberto Sala
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (A.B.)
| | - Maurizio Soli
- Immunohematology and Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy
| | - Valeria Dall’Asta
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (A.B.)
| | - Bianca Maria Rotoli
- Laboratory of General Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (A.B.)
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7
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Reis-Goes FS, Silva NN, Gondim TM, Figueiredo RG, Evangelista GDAO, Marchioro SB, Costa RS, Torres AJL, Meyer RJ, Trindade SC, Fortuna V. Exploring dysregulated immune response genes and endothelial dysfunction biomarkers as predictors of severe COVID-19. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 122:110610. [PMID: 37453154 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Identifying individuals and factors associated with severe cases of COVID-19 is crucial as the pandemic continues to spread globally. Effective biomarkers for predicting severe cases are essential for optimizing clinical management, therapy, and preventing unfavorable outcomes. This exploratory observational study aimed to investigate the expression of dysregulated immune response genes (ARG1, NOS2, ITGA4, and SELPLG) in total leukocytes, plasmatic levels of P-selectin and PSGL-1, and their clinical associations in patients with mild and severe COVID-19. Data from 117 confirmed COVID-19 patients (severe = 58, mild = 59) were collected upon admission. Gene expression was measured using RT-qPCR, and plasma protein levels assessed with ELISA assay. The severe COVID-19 patient group had a higher median age of 62.0 (p = 0.0001), a higher proportion of black individuals (86.2%, p < 0.0001), and more males (65.5%, p = 0.007). The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were significantly higher in the severe COVID-19 patient group (p < 0.0001), indicating ongoing systemic inflammation. Severe COVID-19 patients also exhibited increased expression of ARG1 (p < 0.05) and SELPLG (p < 0.0001) genes, as well as higher concentrations of soluble P-selectin (p < 0.005) and PSGL-1 (p < 0.05) proteins. Multivariate analysis revealed that NLR, PLR, the expression of SELPLG and sPSGL-1 were independent predictors of COVID-19 severity. In conclusion, this study suggests that biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and dysregulated leukocyte responses are associated with COVID-19 severity, serving as promising predictive tools for optimizing clinical management and patient monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiane S Reis-Goes
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Nívia N Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Taiane M Gondim
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Ricardo G Figueiredo
- Postgraduate Program in Collective Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Brazil
| | | | - Silvana B Marchioro
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Ryan S Costa
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alex José L Torres
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Roberto Jose Meyer
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Soraya C Trindade
- Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology, State University of Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Vitor Fortuna
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Immunology, Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil.
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8
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Redaelli S, Pozzi M, Giani M, Magliocca A, Fumagalli R, Foti G, Berra L, Rezoagli E. Inhaled Nitric Oxide in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Subsets: Rationale and Clinical Applications. J Aerosol Med Pulm Drug Deliv 2023; 36:112-126. [PMID: 37083488 PMCID: PMC10402704 DOI: 10.1089/jamp.2022.0058] [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: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition, characterized by diffuse inflammatory lung injury. Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic spread worldwide, the most common cause of ARDS has been the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Both the COVID-19-associated ARDS and the ARDS related to other causes-also defined as classical ARDS-are burdened by high mortality and morbidity. For these reasons, effective therapeutic interventions are urgently needed. Among them, inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) has been studied in patients with ARDS since 1993 and it is currently under investigation. In this review, we aim at describing the biological and pharmacological rationale of iNO treatment in ARDS by elucidating similarities and differences between classical and COVID-19 ARDS. Thereafter, we present the available evidence on the use of iNO in clinical practice in both types of respiratory failure. Overall, iNO seems a promising agent as it could improve the ventilation/perfusion mismatch, gas exchange impairment, and right ventricular failure, which are reported in ARDS. In addition, iNO may act as a viricidal agent and prevent lung hyperinflammation and thrombosis of the pulmonary vasculature in the specific setting of COVID-19 ARDS. However, the current evidence on the effects of iNO on outcomes is limited and clinical studies are yet to demonstrate any survival benefit by administering iNO in ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Redaelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Matteo Pozzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Marco Giani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Aurora Magliocca
- Department of Medical Physiopathology and Transplants, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Fumagalli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Niguarda Ca’ Granda, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Foti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Berra
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Respiratory Care Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emanuele Rezoagli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
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9
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Jin P, Xu G, Chen X, Li SC, Cheng L, Sui P, Ye J, Yang X, Xi S, Yu F, Jiang T. A nitric oxide responsive AIE probe for detecting the progression of osteoarthritis. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:2145-2156. [PMID: 36776022 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb02202h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is reported to be elevated in osteoarthritis (OA) both in vitro and in vivo and may be adopted to develop fluorescent probes for detecting the progression of OA. Here we report a nitric oxide responsive aggregation induced emission (AIE) probe TPE-2NHCOCH2CH2-(PEG)24-NH-Diacerein, which is derived from tetraphenylethene (TPE) modified with the hydrophilic group long poly(ethylene glycol) chain and an anti-inflammatory drug diacerein. o-Phenylenediamine within its structure can react with NO to form benzotriazole and emit fluorescence. The results show that the NO-responsive AIE probe can smartly monitor the progression of OA with the change of fluorescence intensity in vitro and in vivo. This study may provide a new development direction for early OA monitoring in clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Jin
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China. .,Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bio Resource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Guojie Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Xichi Chen
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China.
| | - Shi-Cheng Li
- Department of Cardiology, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Lin Cheng
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China.
| | - Ping Sui
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China.
| | - Jiaqi Ye
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China.
| | - Xuerui Yang
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China.
| | - Shanshan Xi
- Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei, China.
| | - Fabiao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Hainan Trauma and Disaster Rescue, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China. .,Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center for Hainan Bio-Smart Materials and Bio-Medical Devices, Key Laboratory of Hainan Functional Materials and Molecular Imaging, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Tongmeng Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Hainan Trauma and Disaster Rescue, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China. .,Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center for Hainan Bio-Smart Materials and Bio-Medical Devices, Key Laboratory of Hainan Functional Materials and Molecular Imaging, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
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10
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Almada L, Angiolini SC, Dho ND, Dutto J, Gazzoni Y, Manzone-Rodríguez C, Marín C, Ponce NE, Arroyo DS, Quiróz JN, Iribarren P, Cerbán FM, Morón G, Amezcua Vesely MC, Cervi L, Chiapello LS, Fozzatti L, Icely PA, Maccioni M, Montes CL, Motrán CC, Rodríguez-Galán MC, Stempin CC, Viano ME, Mena C, Bertone M, Abiega CD, Escudero D, Kahn A, Caeiro JP, Maletto BA, Acosta Rodríguez EV, Gruppi A, Sotomayor CE. Different cytokine and chemokine profiles in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 during the first and second outbreaks from Argentina show no association with clinical comorbidities. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1111797. [PMID: 36817433 PMCID: PMC9929547 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1111797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 severity has been linked to an increased production of inflammatory mediators called "cytokine storm". Available data is mainly restricted to the first international outbreak and reports highly variable results. This study compares demographic and clinical features of patients with COVID-19 from Córdoba, Argentina, during the first two waves of the pandemic and analyzes association between comorbidities and disease outcome with the "cytokine storm", offering added value to the field. Methods We investigated serum concentration of thirteen soluble mediators, including cytokines and chemokines, in hospitalized patients with moderate and severe COVID-19, without previous rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, from the central region of Argentina during the first and second infection waves. Samples from healthy controls were also assayed. Clinical and biochemical parameters were collected. Results Comparison between the two first COVID-19 waves in Argentina highlighted that patients recruited during the second wave were younger and showed less concurrent comorbidities than those from the first outbreak. We also recognized particularities in the signatures of systemic cytokines and chemokines in patients from both infection waves. We determined that concurrent pre-existing comorbidities did not have contribution to serum concentration of systemic cytokines and chemokines in COVID-19 patients. We also identified immunological and biochemical parameters associated to inflammation which can be used as prognostic markers. Thus, IL-6 concentration, C reactive protein level and platelet count allowed to discriminate between death and discharge in patients hospitalized with severe COVID-19 only during the first but not the second wave. Conclusions Our data provide information that deepens our understanding of COVID-19 pathogenesis linking demographic features of a COVID-19 cohort with cytokines and chemokines systemic concentration, presence of comorbidities and different disease outcomes. Altogether, our findings provide information not only at local level by delineating inflammatory/anti-inflammatory response of patients but also at international level addressing the impact of comorbidities and the infection wave in the variability of cytokine and chemokine production upon SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Almada
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Sofía Carla Angiolini
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Daniel Dho
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jeremías Dutto
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Yamila Gazzoni
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Clarisa Manzone-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Constanza Marín
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Eric Ponce
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Daniela Soledad Arroyo
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Juan Nahuel Quiróz
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Pablo Iribarren
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Fabio Marcelo Cerbán
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Gabriel Morón
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María Carolina Amezcua Vesely
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Laura Cervi
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Laura Silvina Chiapello
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Laura Fozzatti
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Paula Alejandra Icely
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mariana Maccioni
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Carolina Lucia Montes
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Claudia Cristina Motrán
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Rodríguez-Galán
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Cinthia Carolina Stempin
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María Estefanía Viano
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Cristian Mena
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mariana Bertone
- Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Biomédicas de Córdoba (IUCBC), Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Claudio Daniel Abiega
- Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Biomédicas de Córdoba (IUCBC), Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Daiana Escudero
- Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Biomédicas de Córdoba (IUCBC), Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Adrián Kahn
- Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Biomédicas de Córdoba (IUCBC), Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Caeiro
- Instituto Universitario de Ciencias Biomédicas de Córdoba (IUCBC), Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Belkys Angélica Maletto
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Eva Virginia Acosta Rodríguez
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Adriana Gruppi
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Claudia Elena Sotomayor
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
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11
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Damle VG, Wu K, Arouri DJ, Schirhagl R. Detecting free radicals post viral infections. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 191:8-23. [PMID: 36002131 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Free radical generation plays a key role in viral infections. While free radicals have an antimicrobial effect on bacteria or fungi, their interplay with viruses is complicated and varies greatly for different types of viruses as well as different radical species. In some cases, radical generation contributes to the defense against the viruses and thus reduces the viral load. In other cases, radical generation induces mutations or damages the host tissue and can increase the viral load. This has led to antioxidants being used to treat viral infections. Here we discuss the roles that radicals play in virus pathology. Furthermore, we critically review methods that facilitate the detection of free radicals in vivo or in vitro in viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- V G Damle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - K Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - D J Arouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - R Schirhagl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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12
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Izzo R, Trimarco V, Mone P, Aloè T, Capra Marzani M, Diana A, Fazio G, Mallardo M, Maniscalco M, Marazzi G, Messina N, Mininni S, Mussi C, Pelaia G, Pennisi A, Santus P, Scarpelli F, Tursi F, Zanforlin A, Santulli G, Trimarco B. Combining L-Arginine with vitamin C improves long-COVID symptoms: The LINCOLN Survey. Pharmacol Res 2022; 183:106360. [PMID: 35868478 PMCID: PMC9295384 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent evidence suggests that oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction play critical roles in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and Long-COVID. We hypothesized that a supplementation combining L-Arginine (to improve endothelial function) and Vitamin C (to reduce oxidation) could have favorable effects on Long-COVID symptoms. METHODS We designed a survey (LINCOLN: L-Arginine and Vitamin C improves Long-COVID), assessing several symptoms that have been associated with Long-COVID to be administered nationwide to COVID-19 survivors; the survey also included effort perception, measured using the Borg scale. Patients receiving the survey were divided in two groups, with a 2:1 ratio: the first group included patients that received L-Arginine + Vitamin C, whereas the second group received a multivitamin combination (alternative treatment). RESULTS 1390 patients successfully completed the survey. Following a 30-day treatment in both groups, the survey revealed that patients in the L-Arginine + Vitamin C treatment arm had significantly lower scores compared to patients who had received the multivitamin combination. There were no other significant differences between the two groups. When examining effort perception, we observed a significantly lower value (p < 0.0001) in patients receiving L-Arginine + Vitamin C compared to the alternative-treatment arm. CONCLUSIONS Our survey indicates that the supplementation with L-Arginine + Vitamin C has beneficial effects in Long-COVID, in terms of attenuating its typical symptoms and improving effort perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Izzo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Trimarco
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Mone
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Simone Mininni
- Associazione Scientifica Interdisciplinare Aggiornamento Medico (ASIAM), Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Mussi
- Department of Biomedical and Metabolic Sciences and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Girolamo Pelaia
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gaetano Santulli
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy; Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Bruno Trimarco
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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