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Lopdell TJ, Trevarton AJ, Moody J, Prowse-Wilkins C, Knowles S, Tiplady K, Chamberlain AJ, Goddard ME, Spelman RJ, Lehnert K, Snell RG, Davis SR, Littlejohn MD. A common regulatory haplotype doubles lactoferrin concentration in milk. Genet Sel Evol 2024; 56:22. [PMID: 38549172 PMCID: PMC11234695 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-024-00890-x] [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: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bovine lactoferrin (Lf) is an iron absorbing whey protein with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity. Lactoferrin is economically valuable and has an extremely variable concentration in milk, partly driven by environmental influences such as milking frequency, involution, or mastitis. A significant genetic influence has also been previously observed to regulate lactoferrin content in milk. Here, we conducted genetic mapping of lactoferrin protein concentration in conjunction with RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, and ATAC-seq data to pinpoint candidate causative variants that regulate lactoferrin concentrations in milk. RESULTS We identified a highly-significant lactoferrin protein quantitative trait locus (pQTL), as well as a cis lactotransferrin (LTF) expression QTL (cis-eQTL) mapping to the LTF locus. Using ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq datasets representing lactating mammary tissue samples, we also report a number of regions where the openness of chromatin is under genetic influence. Several of these also show highly significant QTL with genetic signatures similar to those highlighted through pQTL and eQTL analysis. By performing correlation analysis between these QTL, we revealed an ATAC-seq peak in the putative promotor region of LTF, that highlights a set of 115 high-frequency variants that are potentially responsible for these effects. One of the 115 variants (rs110000337), which maps within the ATAC-seq peak, was predicted to alter binding sites of transcription factors known to be involved in lactation-related pathways. CONCLUSIONS Here, we report a regulatory haplotype of 115 variants with conspicuously large impacts on milk lactoferrin concentration. These findings could enable the selection of animals for high-producing specialist herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Lopdell
- Research & Development, Livestock Improvement Corporation, Ruakura Road, Hamilton, New Zealand.
| | - Alexander J Trevarton
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Janelle Moody
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Claire Prowse-Wilkins
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBiosciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinarian and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Knowles
- Auckland War Memorial Museum, Victoria Street West, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kathryn Tiplady
- Research & Development, Livestock Improvement Corporation, Ruakura Road, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Amanda J Chamberlain
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBiosciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael E Goddard
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBiosciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinarian and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard J Spelman
- Research & Development, Livestock Improvement Corporation, Ruakura Road, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Klaus Lehnert
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Russell G Snell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Stephen R Davis
- Research & Development, Livestock Improvement Corporation, Ruakura Road, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Mathew D Littlejohn
- Research & Development, Livestock Improvement Corporation, Ruakura Road, Hamilton, New Zealand
- AL Rae Centre for Genetics and Breeding, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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2
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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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3
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Azam MS, Islam MN, Wahiduzzaman M, Alam M, Dhrubo AAK. Antiviral foods in the battle against viral infections: Understanding the molecular mechanism. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:4444-4459. [PMID: 37576049 PMCID: PMC10420791 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses produce a variety of illnesses, which may also cause acute respiratory syndrome. All viral infections, including COVID-19, are associated with the strength of the immune system. Till now, traditional medicine or vaccines for most viral diseases have not been effective. Antiviral and immune-boosting diets may provide defense against viral diseases by lowering the risk of infection and assisting rapid recovery. The purpose of this review was to gather, analyze, and present data based on scientific evidence in order to provide an overview of the mechanistic insights of antiviral bioactive metabolites. We have covered a wide range of food with antiviral properties in this review, along with their potential mechanism of action against viral infections. Additionally, the opportunities and challenges of using antiviral food have been critically reviewed. Bioactive plant compounds, not only help in maintaining the body's normal physiological mechanism and good health but are also essential for improving the body's immunity and therefore can be effective against viral diseases. These agents fight viral diseases either by incorporating the body's defense mechanism or by enhancing the cell's immune system. Regular intake of antiviral foods may prevent future pandemic and consumption of these antiviral agents with traditional medicine may reduce the severity of viral diseases. Therefore, the synergistic effect of antiviral foods and medication needs to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Shofiul Azam
- Department of Food EngineeringDhaka University of Engineering & TechnologyGazipurBangladesh
| | - Md. Nahidul Islam
- Department of Agro‐ProcessingBangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural UniversityGazipurBangladesh
- Institute of Food Safety and ProcessingBangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural UniversityGazipurBangladesh
| | - Md. Wahiduzzaman
- Bio‐Med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS‐MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and HealthUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Mahabub Alam
- Department of Food Engineering and Tea TechnologyShahjalal University of Science and TechnologySylhetBangladesh
| | - Akib Atique Khan Dhrubo
- Department of Chemical EngineeringDhaka University of Engineering & TechnologyGazipurBangladesh
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4
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Abstract
COVID-19 can cause detrimental effects on health. Vaccines have helped in reducing disease severity and transmission but their long-term effects on health and effectiveness against future viral variants remain unknown. COVID-19 pathogenesis involves alteration in iron homeostasis. Thus, a contextual understanding of iron-related parameters would be very valuable for disease prognosis and therapeutics.Accordingly, we reviewed the status of iron and iron-related proteins in COVID-19. Iron-associated alterations in COVID-19 reported hitherto include anemia of inflammation, low levels of serum iron (hypoferremia), transferrin and transferrin saturation, and high levels of serum ferritin (hyperferritinemia), hepcidin, lipocalin-2, catalytic iron, and soluble transferrin receptor (in ICU patients). Hemoglobin levels can be low or normal, and compromised hemoglobin function has been proposed. Membrane-bound transferrin receptor may facilitate viral entry, so it acts as a potential target for antiviral therapy. Lactoferrin can provide natural defense by preventing viral entry and/or inhibiting viral replication. Serum iron and ferritin levels can predict COVID-19-related hospitalization, severity, and mortality. Serum hepcidin and ferritin/transferrin ratio can predict COVID-19 severity. Here, serum levels of these iron-related parameters are provided, caveats of iron chelation for therapy are discussed and the interplay of these iron-related parameters in COVID-19 is explained.This synopsis is crucial as it clearly presents the iron picture of COVID-19. The information may assist in disease prognosis and/or in formulating iron-related adjunctive strategies that can help reduce infection/inflammation and better manage COVID-19 caused by future variants. Indeed, the current picture will augment as more is revealed about these iron-related parameters in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Suriawinata
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kosha J Mehta
- Centre for Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
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5
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Finnegan D, Tocmo R, Loscher C. Targeted Application of Functional Foods as Immune Fitness Boosters in the Defense against Viral Infection. Nutrients 2023; 15:3371. [PMID: 37571308 PMCID: PMC10421353 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent times, the emergence of viral infections, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the monkeypox virus, and, most recently, the Langya virus, has highlighted the devastating effects of viral infection on human life. There has been significant progress in the development of efficacious vaccines for the prevention and control of viruses; however, the high rates of viral mutation and transmission necessitate the need for novel methods of control, management, and prevention. In recent years, there has been a shift in public awareness on health and wellbeing, with consumers making significant dietary changes to improve their immunity and overall health. This rising health awareness is driving a global increase in the consumption of functional foods. This review delves into the benefits of functional foods as potential natural means to modulate the host immune system to enhance defense against viral infections. We provide an overview of the functional food market in Europe and discuss the benefits of enhancing immune fitness in high-risk groups, including the elderly, those with obesity, and people with underlying chronic conditions. We also discuss the immunomodulatory mechanisms of key functional foods, including dairy proteins and hydrolysates, plant-based functional foods, fermentates, and foods enriched with vitamin D, zinc, and selenium. Our findings reveal four key immunity boosting mechanisms by functional foods, including inhibition of viral proliferation and binding to host cells, modulation of the innate immune response in macrophages and dendritic cells, enhancement of specific immune responses in T cells and B cells, and promotion of the intestinal barrier function. Overall, this review demonstrates that diet-derived nutrients and functional foods show immense potential to boost viral immunity in high-risk individuals and can be an important approach to improving overall immune health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christine Loscher
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, D09 DX63 Dublin, Ireland; (D.F.); (R.T.)
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6
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Andreu S, Ripa I, Bello-Morales R, López-Guerrero JA. Liposomal Lactoferrin Exerts Antiviral Activity against HCoV-229E and SARS-CoV-2 Pseudoviruses In Vitro. Viruses 2023; 15:v15040972. [PMID: 37112952 PMCID: PMC10142420 DOI: 10.3390/v15040972] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A limited number of effective therapies are currently available to treat human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and other human coronaviruses, which are responsible for nearly a third of global cases of the common cold. The possibility of new emerging coronaviruses demands powerful new antiviral strategies. Lactoferrin is a well-known protein that possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, and it has previously shown antiviral activity against several viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. To increase this antiviral activity, here we present bovine liposomal lactoferrin. Liposomal encapsulation of the compound was proven to increase permeability, bioavailability, and time release. In the present work, we compare the antiviral activity of free and liposomal bovine lactoferrin against HCoV229E and SARS-CoV-2 in vitro and in human primary bronchial epithelial cells, and we demonstrated that the liposomal form exerts a more potent antiviral activity than its free form at non-cytotoxic doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Andreu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin, 2 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Spanish National Research Council-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (CSIC-UAM), C/Nicolás Cabrera, 1 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Ripa
- Department of Molecular Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin, 2 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Spanish National Research Council-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (CSIC-UAM), C/Nicolás Cabrera, 1 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Bello-Morales
- Department of Molecular Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin, 2 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Spanish National Research Council-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (CSIC-UAM), C/Nicolás Cabrera, 1 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Antonio López-Guerrero
- Department of Molecular Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin, 2 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Spanish National Research Council-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (CSIC-UAM), C/Nicolás Cabrera, 1 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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7
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Wu H, Han F. Investigation of shared genes and regulatory mechanisms associated with coronavirus disease 2019 and ischemic stroke. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1151946. [PMID: 37090981 PMCID: PMC10115163 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1151946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveClinical associations between coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and ischemic stroke (IS) have been reported. This study aimed to investigate the shared genes between COVID-19 and IS and explore their regulatory mechanisms.MethodsPublished datasets for COVID-19 and IS were downloaded. Common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the two diseases were identified, followed by protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Moreover, overlapping module genes associated with the two diseases were investigated using weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA). Through intersection analysis of PPI cluster genes and overlapping module genes, hub-shared genes associated with the two diseases were obtained, followed by functional enrichment analysis and external dataset validation. Moreover, the upstream miRNAs and transcription factors (TFs) of the hub-shared genes were predicted.ResultsA total of 91 common DEGs were identified from the clusters of the PPI network, and 129 overlapping module genes were screened using WGCNA. Based on further intersection analysis, four hub-shared genes in IS and COVID-19 were identified, including PDE5A, ITGB3, CEACAM8, and BPI. These hub-shared genes were remarkably enriched in pathways such as ECM-receptor interaction and focal adhesion pathways. Moreover, ITGB3, PDE5A, and CEACAM8 were targeted by 53, 32, and 3 miRNAs, respectively, and these miRNAs were also enriched in the aforementioned pathways. Furthermore, TFs, such as lactoferrin, demonstrated a stronger predicted correlation with the hub-shared genes.ConclusionThe four identified hub-shared genes may participate in crucial mechanisms underlying both COVID-19 and IS and may exhibit the potential to be biomarkers or therapeutic targets for the two diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Han
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Fei Han,
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8
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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:nu15051285. [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
- Correspondence:
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9
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Determination of native lactoferrin and other whey proteins at different pH conditions after UHT using reverse phase HPLC. Int Dairy J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2023.105621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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10
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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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11
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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: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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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12
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Jańczuk A, Brodziak A, Czernecki T, Król J. Lactoferrin-The Health-Promoting Properties and Contemporary Application with Genetic Aspects. Foods 2022; 12:foods12010070. [PMID: 36613286 PMCID: PMC9818722 DOI: 10.3390/foods12010070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study is to present a review of literature data on lactoferrin's characteristics, applications, and multiple health-promoting properties, with special regard to nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics. The article presents a new approach to food ingredients. Nowadays, lactoferrin is used as an ingredient in food but mainly in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. In the European Union, bovine lactoferrin has been legally approved for use as a food ingredient since 2012. However, as our research shows, it is not widely used in food production. The major producers of lactoferrin and the few available food products containing it are listed in the article. Due to anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumour activity, the possibility of lactoferrin use in disease prevention (as a supportive treatment in obesity, diabetes, as well as cardiovascular diseases, including iron deficiency and anaemia) is reported. The possibility of targeted use of lactoferrin is also presented. The use of nutrition genomics, based on the identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes, for example, FTO, PLIN1, TRAP2B, BDNF, SOD2, SLC23A1, LPL, and MTHFR, allows for the effective stratification of people and the selection of the most optimal bioactive nutrients, including lactoferrin, whose bioactive potential cannot be considered without taking into account the group to which they will be given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Jańczuk
- Department of Quality Assessment and Processing of Animal Products, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Aneta Brodziak
- Department of Quality Assessment and Processing of Animal Products, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-8-1445-6836
| | - Tomasz Czernecki
- Department of Biotechnology, Microbiology and Human Nutrition, Dietitian Service, Faculty of Food Science and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Skromna 8, 20-704 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Król
- Department of Quality Assessment and Processing of Animal Products, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
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13
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Buziashvili A, Yemets A. Lactoferrin and its role in biotechnological strategies for plant defense against pathogens. Transgenic Res 2022; 32:1-16. [PMID: 36534334 PMCID: PMC9761627 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-022-00331-9] [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: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Agricultural crops are susceptible to many diseases caused by various pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. This paper reviews the general principles of plant protection against pathogens, as well as the role of iron and antimicrobial peptide metabolism in plant immunity. The article highlights the principles of antibacterial, fungicidal and antiviral action of lactoferrin, a mammalian secretory glycoprotein, and lactoferrin peptides, and their role in protecting plants from phytopathogens. This review offers a comprehensive analysis and shows potential prospects of using the lactoferrin gene to enhance plant resistance to various phytopathogens, as well as the advantages of this biotechnological approach over existing methods of protecting plants against various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Buziashvili
- Department of Cell Biology and Biotechnology, Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Baidy-Vyshnevetskogo Str., 2a, Kyiv, 04123 Ukraine
| | - Alla Yemets
- Department of Cell Biology and Biotechnology, Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Baidy-Vyshnevetskogo Str., 2a, Kyiv, 04123 Ukraine
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14
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Cosentino M, Vernocchi V, Martini S, Marino F, Allasino B, Bàlzola MA, Burigana F, Dallari A, Pagano CSF, Palma A, Rango M. Early Outpatient Treatment of COVID-19: A Retrospective Analysis of 392 Cases in Italy. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11206138. [PMID: 36294461 PMCID: PMC9605012 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206138] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in March 2020. The knowledge of COVID-19 pathophysiology soon provided a strong rationale for the early use of both anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic drugs; however, its evidence was slowly and partially incorporated into institutional guidelines. The unmet needs of COVID-19 outpatients were taken care of by networks of physicians and researchers. We analyse the characteristics, management and outcomes in COVID-19 outpatients who were taken care of by physicians within the IppocrateOrg Association. In this observational retrospective study, volunteering doctors provided data on 392 COVID-19 patients. The mean age of patients was 48.5 years (range: 0.5–97), and patients were taken care of in COVID-19 stage 0 (15.6%), stage 1 (50.0%), stage 2a (28.8%) and stage 2b (5.6%). Many patients were overweight (26%) or obese (11.5%), with chronic comorbidities (34.9%), mainly cardiovascular (23%) and metabolic (13.3%). The most frequently prescribed drugs included: vitamins and supplements (98.7%), aspirin (66.1%), antibiotics (62%), glucocorticoids (41.8%), hydroxychloroquine (29.6%), enoxaparin (28.6%), colchicine (8.9%), oxygen therapy (6.9%), and ivermectin (2.8%). Hospitalization occurred in 5.8% of cases, mainly in stage 2b (27.3%). A total of 390 patients (99.6%) recovered; one patient was lost at follow up, and one patient died after hospitalization. This is the first real-world study describing the behaviours of physicians caring for COVID-19 outpatients, and the outcomes of COVID-19 early treatment. The lethality in this cohort was 0.2%, while overall, and over the same period, the COVID-19 lethality in Italy was over 3%. The drug use described in this study appears effective and safe. The present evidence should be carefully considered by physicians and political decision makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cosentino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (V.V.)
| | - Veronica Vernocchi
- IppocrateOrg Association, Via Canova 15, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (V.V.)
| | - Stefano Martini
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Franca Marino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Barbara Allasino
- IppocrateOrg Association, Via Canova 15, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | | | - Fabio Burigana
- IppocrateOrg Association, Via Canova 15, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Alberto Dallari
- IppocrateOrg Association, Via Canova 15, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | | | - Antonio Palma
- IppocrateOrg Association, Via Canova 15, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Mauro Rango
- IppocrateOrg Association, Via Canova 15, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
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15
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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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16
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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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17
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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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18
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Lactoferrin as a Human Genome “Guardian”—An Overall Point of View. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095248. [PMID: 35563638 PMCID: PMC9105968 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural abnormalities causing DNA modifications of the ethene and propanoadducts can lead to mutations and permanent damage to human genetic material. Such changes may cause premature aging and cell degeneration and death as well as severe impairment of tissue and organ function. This may lead to the development of various diseases, including cancer. In response to a damage, cells have developed defense mechanisms aimed at preventing disease and repairing damaged genetic material or diverting it into apoptosis. All of the mechanisms described above are part of the repertoire of action of Lactoferrin—an endogenous protein that contains iron in its structure, which gives it numerous antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anticancer properties. The aim of the article is to synthetically present the new and innovative role of lactoferrin in the protection of human genetic material against internal and external damage, described by the modulation mechanisms of the cell cycle at all its levels and the mechanisms of its repair.
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The Lactoferrin Phenomenon-A Miracle Molecule. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27092941. [PMID: 35566292 PMCID: PMC9104648 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Numerous harmful factors that affect the human body from birth to old age cause many disturbances, e.g., in the structure of the genome, inducing cell apoptosis and their degeneration, which leads to the development of many diseases, including cancer. Among the factors leading to pathological processes, microbes, viruses, gene dysregulation and immune system disorders have been described. The function of a protective agent may be played by lactoferrin as a “miracle molecule”, an endogenous protein with a number of favorable antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, immunostimulatory and binding DNA properties. The purpose of this article is to present the broad spectrum of properties and the role that lactoferrin plays in protecting human cells at all stages of life.
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20
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Baseline Plasma Gas6 Protein Elevation Predicts Adverse Outcomes in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:1568352. [PMID: 35531477 PMCID: PMC9070408 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1568352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Reliable biomarkers allowing early patients’ stratification for the risk of adverse outcomes in COVID-19 are lacking. Gas6, together with its tyrosine kinase receptors named TAM, is involved in the regulation of immune homeostasis, fibrosis, and thrombosis. Our aim was to evaluate whether Gas6, sAxl, and sMerTK could represent early predictors of disease evolution either towards a negative (death or need of ICU admission) or a positive (discharge and/or clinical resolution within the first 14 days of hospitalization) outcome. To this purpose, between January and May 2021 (corresponding to third pandemic wave in Italy), 139 consecutive SARS-CoV-2 positive patients were enrolled in a prospective observational study. Plasma levels of these molecules were measured by ELISA at the time of hospitalization and after 7 and 14 days. We observed that higher plasma Gas6 concentrations at hospital admission were associated with a worsening in clinical conditions while lower sMerTK concentrations at baseline and after 7 days of hospitalization were associated with a more favorable outcome. At multivariate analysis, after correction for demographic and COVID-19 severity variables (NEWS2 and PiO2/FiO2), only Gas6 measured at baseline predicted an adverse prognosis with an odds ratio of 1.03 (C.I. 1.01-10.5). At ROC curve analysis, baseline Gas6 levels higher than 58.0 ng/ml predicted a severe disease evolution with 53.3% sensitivity and 77.6% specificity (area under the curve 0.653,
, likelihood ratio of 2.38, IQR: 1.46-3.87). Taken together, these results support the hypothesis that a dysregulation in the Gas6/TAM axis could play a relevant role in modulating the course of COVID-19 and suggest that plasma Gas6 may represent a promising prognostic laboratory parameter for this condition.
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21
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Wotring JW, Fursmidt R, Ward L, Sexton JZ. Evaluating the in vitro efficacy of bovine lactoferrin products against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:2791-2802. [PMID: 35221061 PMCID: PMC8872794 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bovine lactoferrin (bLF), a naturally occurring glycoprotein found in milk, has bioactive characteristics against many microbes, viruses, and other pathogens. Bovine lactoferrin strongly inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro through direct entry inhibition and immunomodulatory mechanisms. This study reports on the anti-SARS-CoV-2 efficacy of commercially available bLF and common dairy ingredients in the human lung cell line H1437 using a custom high-content imaging and analysis pipeline. We also show for the first time that bLF has potent efficacy across different viral strains including the South African B.1.351, UK B.1.1.7, Brazilian P.1, and Indian Delta variants. Interestingly, we show that bLF is most potent against the B.1.1.7 variant [half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) = 3.7 µg/mL], suggesting that this strain relies on entry mechanisms that are strongly inhibited by bLF. We also show that one of the major proteolysis products of bLF, lactoferricin B 17-41, has a modest anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity that could add to the clinical significance of this protein for SARS-CoV-2 treatment as lactoferricin is released by pepsin during digestion. Finally, we show that custom chewable lactoferrin tablets formulated in dextrose or sorbitol have equivalent potency to unformulated samples and provide an option for future human clinical trials. Lactoferrin's broad inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 variants in conjunction with the low cost and ease of production make this an exciting clinical candidate for treatment or prevention of SARS-CoV-2 in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse W. Wotring
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109
| | - Reid Fursmidt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Michigan Medicine at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109
| | - Loren Ward
- Glanbia Nutritionals, Twin Falls, ID 83301
| | - Jonathan Z. Sexton
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109,Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Michigan Medicine at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109,UM Center for Drug Repurposing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109,Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research (MICHR), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109,Corresponding author
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22
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23
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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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Hu Y, Meng X, Zhang F, Xiang Y, Wang J. The in vitro antiviral activity of lactoferrin against common human coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-2 is mediated by targeting the heparan sulfate co-receptor. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:317-330. [PMID: 33560940 PMCID: PMC7919907 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1888660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an ongoing pandemic that lacks effective therapeutic interventions. SARS-CoV-2 infects ACE2-expressing cells and gains cell entry through either direct plasma membrane fusion or endocytosis. Recent studies have shown that in addition to ACE2, heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) also play an important role in SARS-CoV-2 cell attachment by serving as an attachment factor. Binding of viral spike protein to HSPGs leads to the enrichment of local concentration for the subsequent specific binding with ACE2. We therefore hypothesize that blocking the interactions between viral spike protein and the HSPGs will lead to inhibition of viral replication. In this study, we report our findings of the broad-spectrum antiviral activity and the mechanism of action of lactoferrin (LF) against multiple common human coronaviruses as well as SARS-CoV-2. Our study has shown that LF has broad-spectrum antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-NL63, and HCoV-229E in cell culture, and bovine lactoferrin (BLF) is more potent than human lactoferrin. Mechanistic studies revealed that BLF binds to HSPGs, thereby blocking viral attachment to the host cell. The antiviral activity of BLF can be antagonized by the HSPG mimetic heparin. Combination therapy experiment showed that the antiviral activity of LF is synergistic with remdesivir in cell culture. Molecular modelling suggests that the N-terminal positively charged region in BLF (residues 17-41) confers the binding to HSPGs. Overall, LF appears to be a promising drug candidate for COVID-19 that warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Xiangzhi Meng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Fushun Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Yan Xiang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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25
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Gruden Š, Poklar Ulrih N. Diverse Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Activities of Lactoferrins, Lactoferricins, and Other Lactoferrin-Derived Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011264. [PMID: 34681923 PMCID: PMC8541349 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrins are an iron-binding glycoprotein that have important protective roles in the mammalian body through their numerous functions, which include antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant activities. Among these, their antimicrobial activity has been the most studied, although the mechanism behind antimicrobial activities remains to be elucidated. Thirty years ago, the first lactoferrin-derived peptide was isolated and showed higher antimicrobial activity than the native lactoferrin lactoferricin. Since then, numerous studies have investigated the antimicrobial potencies of lactoferrins, lactoferricins, and other lactoferrin-derived peptides to better understand their antimicrobial activities at the molecular level. This review defines the current antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic activities of lactoferrins, lactoferricins, and lactoferrin-derived peptides. The primary focus is on their different mechanisms of activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The role of their structure, amino-acid composition, conformation, charge, hydrophobicity, and other factors that affect their mechanisms of antimicrobial activity are also reviewed.
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26
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Pan Y, Chua N, Lim K, Ho CL. Engineering of Human Lactoferrin for Improved Anticancer Activity. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:1476-1482. [PMID: 34661069 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Protease-digested lactoferrin fragments often exhibit improved therapeutic properties. However, there are limited studies investigating the anticancer properties of these fragments. The fragment with improved anticancer activities is an attractive alternative to chemotherapeutic drugs-presenting severe side effects. Herein, we report the isolation and characterization of recombinant engineered-lactoferrin (rtHLF4), exhibiting up to 100-fold improved anticancer activity compared to the full-length lactoferrin (flHLF). Further, rtHLF4 exerts its anticancer effect in a shorter duration. Through transcriptomic analysis of various cancer biomarkers, rtHLF4 was found to upregulate various pro-apoptotic markers and downregulate signaling proteins involved in angiogenesis and metastasis. We further determined that rtHLF4 showed no hemolytic activity at high concentrations. We believe that this anticancer protein can be further developed as a cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, China
| | - Niying Chua
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive 637551, Jurong West, Singapore
| | - Kaisheng Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, China
| | - Chun Loong Ho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, China
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27
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The Prospect of Lactoferrin Use as Adjunctive Agent in Management of SARS-CoV-2 Patients: A Randomized Pilot Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57080842. [PMID: 34441048 PMCID: PMC8401801 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57080842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Preventive, adjunctive and curative properties of lactoferrin have been evaluated since the first wave of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), a viral respiratory disease, emerged 18 years ago. Despite the discovery of new vaccine candidates, there is currently no widely approved treatment for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Strict adherence to infection prevention and control procedures, as well as vaccines, can, however, prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of lactoferrin treatment in improving clinical symptoms and laboratory indices among individuals with mild to moderate coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Materials and Method: A randomized, prospective, interventional pilot study conducted between 8 July and 18 September 2020 used a hospital-based sample of 54 laboratory-confirmed participants with mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19. Randomization into a control and two treatment groups ensured all groups received the approved Egyptian COVID-19 management protocol; only treatment group participants received lactoferrin at different doses for seven days. Clinical symptoms and laboratory indices were assessed on Days 0, 2 and 7 after starting treatments. Mean values with standard deviation and one-way analysis of variance with least significant difference of demographic and laboratory data between control and treatment groups were calculated. Results: Our study showed no statistically significant difference among studied groups regarding recovery of symptoms or laboratory improvement. Conclusions: Further research into therapeutic properties particularly related to dosage, duration and follow-up after treatment with lactoferrin in individuals with COVID-19 is required.
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28
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Alpogan O, Karakucuk S. Lactoferrin: The Natural Protector of the Eye against Coronavirus-19. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 29:751-752. [PMID: 34255583 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1954202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus-19 (Covid-19), which has affected the whole world in a very short time, can infect the eye by using the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 receptor. Viral prevalence in the conjunctiva was reported to be between 3% and 16% in patients with Covid-19. Although Covid-19 has been reported to cause symptoms of conjunctivitis and rash in the eye, no complete evidence has yet been presented that the virus is transmitted from the eye. The low rate of PCR positivity in conjunctival swabs may be due to the effect of lactoferrin (LF), which is among the tear defense systems. LF, the natural protein found in tears, plays a major role in the eye's immune system. The antiviral effect of LF on the SARS-CoV pseudotype, which is in the same family as SARS-CoV-2, has been demonstrated in-vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksan Alpogan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Haydarpasa Numune Training and Resarch Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sarper Karakucuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Acıbadem University Atakent Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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29
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Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Viral Infection and Treatment: A Special Focus on SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126574. [PMID: 34207476 PMCID: PMC8235362 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) encompass a group of glycoproteins composed of unbranched negatively charged heparan sulfate (HS) chains covalently attached to a core protein. The complex HSPG biosynthetic machinery generates an extraordinary structural variety of HS chains that enable them to bind a plethora of ligands, including growth factors, morphogens, cytokines, chemokines, enzymes, matrix proteins, and bacterial and viral pathogens. These interactions translate into key regulatory activity of HSPGs on a wide range of cellular processes such as receptor activation and signaling, cytoskeleton assembly, extracellular matrix remodeling, endocytosis, cell-cell crosstalk, and others. Due to their ubiquitous expression within tissues and their large functional repertoire, HSPGs are involved in many physiopathological processes; thus, they have emerged as valuable targets for the therapy of many human diseases. Among their functions, HSPGs assist many viruses in invading host cells at various steps of their life cycle. Viruses utilize HSPGs for the attachment to the host cell, internalization, intracellular trafficking, egress, and spread. Recently, HSPG involvement in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been established. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying HSPG/SARS-CoV-2 interaction and downstream effects, and we provide an overview of the HSPG-based therapeutic strategies that could be used to combat such a fearsome virus.
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30
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Talaat M, Si XA, Dong H, Xi J. Leveraging statistical shape modeling in computational respiratory dynamics: Nanomedicine delivery in remodeled airways. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2021; 204:106079. [PMID: 33831725 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2021.106079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Accurate knowledge of the delivered doses to the diseased site in the respiratory tract is crucial to elicit desired therapeutic outcomes. However, such information is still difficult to obtain due to inaccessibility for measurement or visualization, complex network structure, and challenges in reconstructing lung geometries with disease-invoked airway remodeling. This study presents a novel method to simulate the airway remodeling in a mouth-lung geometry extending to G9. METHODS Statistical shape modeling was used to extract morphological features from a lung geometry database and four new models (i.e., M1-M4) were generated with parameter-controlled dilated/constricted bronchioles in the left-lower (LL) lung. The variations in airflow and particle deposition due to the airway remodeling were simulated using a well-tested k-ω turbulence model and a Lagrangian tracking approach. RESULTS Significant variations in flow partitions between the lower and upper lobes of the left lung, as well as between the left and right lungs. The flow partition into the LL lobe varied by 10-fold between the most dilated and constricted models in this study. Significantly lower doses were also predicted on the surface of the constricted LL bronchioles G4-G9, as well as into the peripheral airways beyond G9. However, the total dosimetry in the mouth-lung geometry (up to G9) exhibited low sensitivity to the LL lobar remodeling. Results in this study suggest that the optimal nanomedicine should be 2-10 nm in diameter if targeted at the constricted bronchioles G4-G9 as in topical inhalation therapy but should be larger than 20 nm if targeted at the alveolar region as in systemic therapy. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the large dose variability from local airway remodeling and the need to consider these variations in the treatment planning for pneumonia and other obstructive respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Talaat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, U.S.A.
| | - Xiuhua April Si
- Department of Aerospace, Industrial, and Mechanical Engineering, California Baptist University, Riverside, CA, U.S.A.
| | - Haibo Dong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, U.S.A.
| | - Jinxiang Xi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, U.S.A.
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31
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Zimecki M, Actor JK, Kruzel ML. The potential for Lactoferrin to reduce SARS-CoV-2 induced cytokine storm. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 95:107571. [PMID: 33765614 PMCID: PMC7953442 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a serious global health threat caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome of coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Symptoms of COVID-19 are highly variable with common hyperactivity of immune responses known as a "cytokine storm". In fact, this massive release of inflammatory cytokines into in the pulmonary alveolar structure is a main cause of mortality during COVID-19 infection. Current management of COVID-19 is supportive and there is no common clinical protocol applied to suppress this pathological state. Lactoferrin (LF), an iron binding protein, is a first line defense protein that is present in neutrophils and excretory fluids of all mammals, and is well recognized for its role in maturation and regulation of immune system function. Also, due to its ability to sequester free iron, LF is known to protect against insult-induced oxidative stress and subsequent "cytokine storm" that results in dramatic necrosis within the affected tissue. Review of the literature strongly suggests utility of LF to silence the "cytokine storm", giving credence to both prophylactic and therapeutic approaches towards combating COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Zimecki
- The Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jeffrey K Actor
- University of Texas, Health Science Center Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Marian L Kruzel
- University of Texas, Health Science Center Houston, Texas, USA
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32
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Bardanzellu F, Puddu M, Fanos V. Breast Milk and COVID-19: From Conventional Data to "Omics" Technologies to Investigate Changes Occurring in SARS-CoV-2 Positive Mothers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5668. [PMID: 34070662 PMCID: PMC8199242 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In this context of COVID-19 pandemic, great interest has been aroused by the potential maternal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 by transplacental route, during delivery, and, subsequently, through breastfeeding. Some open questions still remain, especially regarding the possibility of finding viable SARS-CoV-2 in breast milk (BM), although this is not considered a worrying route of transmission. However, in BM, it was pointed out the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and other bioactive components that could protect the infant from infection. The aim of our narrative review is to report and discuss the available literature on the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in BM of COVID-19 positive mothers, and we discussed the unique existing study investigating BM of SARS-CoV-2 positive mothers through metabolomics, and the evidence regarding microbiomics BM variation in COVID-19. Moreover, we tried to correlate metabolomics and microbiomics findings in BM of positive mothers with potential effects on breastfed infants metabolism and health. To our knowledge, this is the first review summarizing the current knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 effects on BM, resuming both "conventional data" (antibodies) and "omics technologies" (metabolomics and microbiomics).
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Bardanzellu
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU and University of Cagliari, SS 554 km 4500, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (M.P.); (V.F.)
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33
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Mattar EH, Elrashdy F, Almehdar HA, Uversky VN, Redwan EM. Natural resources to control COVID-19: could lactoferrin amend SARS-CoV-2 infectivity? PeerJ 2021; 9:e11303. [PMID: 33954061 PMCID: PMC8052957 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The world population is still facing the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Such a challenge requires complicated tools to control, namely vaccines, effective cures, and complementary agents. Here we present one candidate for the role of an effective cure and/or complementary agent: lactoferrin. It is the cross-talking mediator between many organs/cellular systems in the body. It serves as a physiological, immunological, and anti-microbial barrier, and acts as a regulator molecule. Furthermore, lactoferrin has receptors on most tissues cells, and is a rich source for bioactive peptides, particularly in the digestive system. In the past months, in vitro and in vivo evidence has accumulated regarding lactoferrin's ability to control SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in different indicated scenarios. Also, lactoferrin or whey milk (of human or other mammal's origin) is a cheap, easily available, and safe agent, the use of which can produce promising results. Pharmaceutical and/or food supplementary formulas of lactoferrin could be particularly effective in controlling the gastrointestinal COVID-19-associated symptoms and could limit the fecal-oral viral infection transmission, through mechanisms that mimic that of norovirus infection control by lactoferrin via induction of intestinal innate immunity. This natural avenue may be effective not only in symptomatic patients, but could also be more helpful in asymptomatic patients as a main or adjuvant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehab H. Mattar
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatma Elrashdy
- Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatogastroenterology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hussein A. Almehdar
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vladimir N. Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
| | - Elrashdy M. Redwan
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Morniroli D, Consales A, Crippa BL, Vizzari G, Ceroni F, Cerasani J, Colombo L, Mosca F, Giannì ML. The Antiviral Properties of Human Milk: A Multitude of Defence Tools from Mother Nature. Nutrients 2021; 13:694. [PMID: 33671491 PMCID: PMC7926697 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The anti-infective properties of breast milk have been known for decades. In recent years, an increasing number of papers have described the variety of bioactive compounds that are present in breast milk with varying degrees of antiviral activity. However, to date, the totality of the properties of these compounds is not fully understood and, above all, their synergistic interaction is not yet known. The purpose of this review is to describe the current knowledge about the antiviral compounds in breast milk, both with specific and non-specific action against pathogens. Due to the current pandemic situation from SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2), research has focused on a multitude of potential antiviral substances, taking breast milk as a biological model of reference. Future research is needed to expand the knowledge of these compounds, which will hopefully assist in the development of therapies applicable even at later ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Morniroli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Alessandra Consales
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Beatrice Letizia Crippa
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 20122 Milan, Italy; (B.L.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Giulia Vizzari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Federica Ceroni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Jacopo Cerasani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Lorenzo Colombo
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 20122 Milan, Italy; (B.L.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Fabio Mosca
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 20122 Milan, Italy; (B.L.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Maria Lorella Giannì
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (D.M.); (G.V.); (F.C.); (J.C.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 20122 Milan, Italy; (B.L.C.); (L.C.)
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Romeo I, Mesiti F, Lupia A, Alcaro S. Current Updates on Naturally Occurring Compounds Recognizing SARS-CoV-2 Druggable Targets. Molecules 2021; 26:632. [PMID: 33530467 PMCID: PMC7865633 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26030632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been identified in China as the etiologic agent of the recent COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Due to its high transmissibility, this virus quickly spread throughout the world, causing considerable health issues. The scientific community exerted noteworthy efforts to obtain therapeutic solutions for COVID-19, and new scientific networks were constituted. No certified drugs to efficiently inhibit the virus were identified, and the development of de-novo medicines requires approximately ten years of research. Therefore, the repurposing of natural products could be an effective strategy to handle SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review aims to update on current status of the natural occurring compounds recognizing SARS-CoV-2 druggable targets. Among the clinical trials actually recruited, some natural compounds are ongoing to examine their potential role to prevent and to treat the COVID-19 infection. Many natural scaffolds, including alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, and benzoquinones, were investigated by in-silico, in-vitro, and in-vivo approaches. Despite the large data set obtained by a computational approach, experimental evidences in most cases are not available. To fill this gap, further efforts to validate these results are required. We believe that an accurate investigation of naturally occurring compounds may provide insights for the potential treatment of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Romeo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- Net4Science Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.M.); (A.L.)
| | - Francesco Mesiti
- Net4Science Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.M.); (A.L.)
| | - Antonio Lupia
- Net4Science Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.M.); (A.L.)
| | - Stefano Alcaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- Net4Science Academic Spin-Off, Università “Magna Græcia” di Catanzaro, Campus “S. Venuta”, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.M.); (A.L.)
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Salaris C, Scarpa M, Elli M, Bertolini A, Guglielmetti S, Pregliasco F, Blandizzi C, Brun P, Castagliuolo I. Protective Effects of Lactoferrin against SARS-CoV-2 Infection In Vitro. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020328. [PMID: 33498631 PMCID: PMC7911668 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a newly emerging virus that currently lacks curative treatments. Lactoferrin (LF) is a naturally occurring non-toxic glycoprotein with broad-spectrum antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we assessed the potential of LF in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. Antiviral immune response gene expression was analyzed by qRT-PCR in uninfected Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells treated with LF. An infection assay for SARS-CoV-2 was performed in Caco-2 cells treated or not with LF. SARS-CoV-2 titer was determined by qRT-PCR, plaque assay and immunostaining. Inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine production was determined by qRT-PCR. LF significantly induced the expression of IFNA1, IFNB1, TLR3, TLR7, IRF3, IRF7 and MAVS genes. Furthermore, LF partially inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection and replication in Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells. Our in vitro data support LF as an immune modulator of the antiviral immune response with moderate effects against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Salaris
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (C.S.); (A.B.); (I.C.)
| | - Melania Scarpa
- Laboratory of Advanced Translational Research, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, 35128 Padua, Italy;
| | - Marina Elli
- AAT-Advanced Analytical Technologies S.r.l., Fiorenzuola d’Arda, 29122 Piacenza, Italy;
| | - Alice Bertolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (C.S.); (A.B.); (I.C.)
| | - Simone Guglielmetti
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Pregliasco
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, University of Milan, 20136 Milan, Italy;
| | - Corrado Blandizzi
- Unit of Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Paola Brun
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (C.S.); (A.B.); (I.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ignazio Castagliuolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (C.S.); (A.B.); (I.C.)
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Abstract
It is crucial to use the wealth of information emerging from the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and confront COVID-19 with a rational approach. There are proactive steps to prevent and fight COVID-19. Management of the disease should be according to clinical features and laboratory test markers and personalized therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruty Mehrian-Shai
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel.
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