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Ioannidis I, Lefkaritis G, Georgiades SN, Pashalidis I, Kontoghiorghes GJ. Towards Clinical Development of Scandium Radioisotope Complexes for Use in Nuclear Medicine: Encouraging Prospects with the Chelator 1,4,7,10-Tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic Acid (DOTA) and Its Analogues. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5954. [PMID: 38892142 PMCID: PMC11173192 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115954] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Scandium (Sc) isotopes have recently attracted significant attention in the search for new radionuclides with potential uses in personalized medicine, especially in the treatment of specific cancer patient categories. In particular, Sc-43 and Sc-44, as positron emitters with a satisfactory half-life (3.9 and 4.0 h, respectively), are ideal for cancer diagnosis via Positron Emission Tomography (PET). On the other hand, Sc-47, as an emitter of beta particles and low gamma radiation, may be used as a therapeutic radionuclide, which also allows Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) imaging. As these scandium isotopes follow the same biological pathway and chemical reactivity, they appear to fit perfectly into the "theranostic pair" concept. A step-by-step description, initiating from the moment of scandium isotope production and leading up to their preclinical and clinical trial applications, is presented. Recent developments related to the nuclear reactions selected and employed to produce the radionuclides Sc-43, Sc-44, and Sc-47, the chemical processing of these isotopes and the main target recovery methods are also included. Furthermore, the radiolabeling of the leading chelator, 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA), and its structural analogues with scandium is also discussed and the advantages and disadvantages of scandium complexation are evaluated. Finally, a review of the preclinical studies and clinical trials involving scandium, as well as future challenges for its clinical uses and applications, are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Ioannidis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cyprus, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus; (I.I.); (G.L.); (S.N.G.); (I.P.)
| | - George Lefkaritis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cyprus, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus; (I.I.); (G.L.); (S.N.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Savvas N. Georgiades
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cyprus, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus; (I.I.); (G.L.); (S.N.G.); (I.P.)
| | - Ioannis Pashalidis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cyprus, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus; (I.I.); (G.L.); (S.N.G.); (I.P.)
| | - George J. Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, 3021 Limassol, Cyprus
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2
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Salimi Z, Afsharinasab M, Rostami M, Eshaghi Milasi Y, Mousavi Ezmareh SF, Sakhaei F, Mohammad-Sadeghipour M, Rasooli Manesh SM, Asemi Z. Iron chelators: as therapeutic agents in diseases. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2759-2776. [PMID: 38694398 PMCID: PMC11060230 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The concentration of iron is tightly regulated, making it an essential element. Various cellular processes in the body rely on iron, such as oxygen sensing, oxygen transport, electron transfer, and DNA synthesis. Iron excess can be toxic because it participates in redox reactions that catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species and elevate oxidative stress. Iron chelators are chemically diverse; they can coordinate six ligands in an octagonal sequence. Because of the ability of chelators to trap essential metals, including iron, they may be involved in diseases caused by oxidative stress, such as infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Iron-chelating agents, by tightly binding to iron, prohibit it from functioning as a catalyst in redox reactions and transfer iron and excrete it from the body. Thus, the use of iron chelators as therapeutic agents has received increasing attention. This review investigates the function of various iron chelators in treating iron overload in different clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Salimi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Mehdi Afsharinasab
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran
| | - Mehdi Rostami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad
| | - Yaser Eshaghi Milasi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Seyedeh Fatemeh Mousavi Ezmareh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Fariba Sakhaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Maryam Mohammad-Sadeghipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Afzalipoor Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman
| | | | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. The Importance and Essentiality of Natural and Synthetic Chelators in Medicine: Increased Prospects for the Effective Treatment of Iron Overload and Iron Deficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4654. [PMID: 38731873 PMCID: PMC11083551 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The supply and control of iron is essential for all cells and vital for many physiological processes. All functions and activities of iron are expressed in conjunction with iron-binding molecules. For example, natural chelators such as transferrin and chelator-iron complexes such as haem play major roles in iron metabolism and human physiology. Similarly, the mainstay treatments of the most common diseases of iron metabolism, namely iron deficiency anaemia and iron overload, involve many iron-chelator complexes and the iron-chelating drugs deferiprone (L1), deferoxamine (DF) and deferasirox. Endogenous chelators such as citric acid and glutathione and exogenous chelators such as ascorbic acid also play important roles in iron metabolism and iron homeostasis. Recent advances in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia with effective iron complexes such as the ferric iron tri-maltol complex (feraccru or accrufer) and the effective treatment of transfusional iron overload using L1 and L1/DF combinations have decreased associated mortality and morbidity and also improved the quality of life of millions of patients. Many other chelating drugs such as ciclopirox, dexrazoxane and EDTA are used daily by millions of patients in other diseases. Similarly, many other drugs or their metabolites with iron-chelation capacity such as hydroxyurea, tetracyclines, anthracyclines and aspirin, as well as dietary molecules such as gallic acid, caffeic acid, quercetin, ellagic acid, maltol and many other phytochelators, are known to interact with iron and affect iron metabolism and related diseases. Different interactions are also observed in the presence of essential, xenobiotic, diagnostic and theranostic metal ions competing with iron. Clinical trials using L1 in Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases, as well as HIV and other infections, cancer, diabetic nephropathy and anaemia of inflammation, highlight the importance of chelation therapy in many other clinical conditions. The proposed use of iron chelators for modulating ferroptosis signifies a new era in the design of new therapeutic chelation strategies in many other diseases. The introduction of artificial intelligence guidance for optimal chelation therapeutic outcomes in personalised medicine is expected to increase further the impact of chelation in medicine, as well as the survival and quality of life of millions of patients with iron metabolic disorders and also other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Yuan Y, He Q, Yang X, Flores JJ, Huang L, Luo X, Zhang X, Zhang Z, Li R, Gu L, Dong S, Zhu S, Yi K, Han M, Wu L, Zhou Y, Zhang JH, Xie Z, Tang J. Mitochondrial ferritin upregulation reduced oxidative stress and blood-brain-barrier disruption by maintaining cellular iron homeostasis in a neonatal rat model of germinal matrix hemorrhage. Exp Neurol 2024; 374:114703. [PMID: 38281588 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Germinal matrix hemorrhage (GMH) is a devasting neurological disease in premature newborns. After GMH, brain iron overload associated with hemoglobin degradation contributed to oxidative stress, causing disruption of the already vulnerable blood-brain barrier (BBB). Mitochondrial ferritin (FTMT), a novel mitochondrial outer membrane protein, is crucial in maintaining cellular iron homeostasis. We aimed to investigate the effect of FTMT upregulation on oxidative stress and BBB disruption associated with brain iron overload in rats. A total of 222 Sprague-Dawley neonatal rat pups (7 days old) were used to establish a collagenase-induced GMH model and an iron-overload model of intracerebral FeCl2 injection. Deferiprone was administered via gastric lavage 1 h after GMH and given daily until euthanasia. FTMT CRISPR Knockout and adenovirus (Ad)-FTMT were administered intracerebroventricularly 48 h before GMH and FeCl2 injection, respectively. Neurobehavioral tests, immunofluorescence, Western blot, Malondialdehyde measurement, and brain water content were performed to evaluate neurobehavior deficits, oxidative stress, and BBB disruption, respectively. The results demonstrated that brain expressions of iron exporter Ferroportin (FPN) and antioxidant glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) as well as BBB tight junction proteins including Claudin-5 and Zona Occulta (ZO)-1 were found to be decreased at 72 h after GMH. FTMT agonist Deferiprone attenuated oxidative stress and preserved BBB tight junction proteins after GMH. These effects were partially reversed by FTMT CRISPR Knockout. Iron overload by FeCl2 injection resulted in oxidative stress and BBB disruption, which were improved by Ad-FTMT mediated FTMT overexpression. Collectively, FTMT upregulation is neuroprotective against brain injury associated with iron overload. Deferiprone reduced oxidative stress and BBB disruption by maintaining cellular iron homeostasis partially by the upregulating of FTMT after GMH. Deferiprone may be an effective treatment for patients with GMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Qiuguang He
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Jerry J Flores
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Xu Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Xingyu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zongyi Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Ruihao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Lingui Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Malignant Brain Tumors, National Glioma MDT Alliance, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Siyuan Dong
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Shiyi Zhu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Kun Yi
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Mingyang Han
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - You Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - John H Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; Departments of Anesthesiology and Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Zongyi Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China.
| | - Jiping Tang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA.
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. Drug Selection and Posology, Optimal Therapies and Risk/Benefit Assessment in Medicine: The Paradigm of Iron-Chelating Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16749. [PMID: 38069073 PMCID: PMC10706143 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The design of clinical protocols and the selection of drugs with appropriate posology are critical parameters for therapeutic outcomes. Optimal therapeutic protocols could ideally be designed in all diseases including for millions of patients affected by excess iron deposition (EID) toxicity based on personalised medicine parameters, as well as many variations and limitations. EID is an adverse prognostic factor for all diseases and especially for millions of chronically red-blood-cell-transfused patients. Differences in iron chelation therapy posology cause disappointing results in neurodegenerative diseases at low doses, but lifesaving outcomes in thalassemia major (TM) when using higher doses. In particular, the transformation of TM from a fatal to a chronic disease has been achieved using effective doses of oral deferiprone (L1), which improved compliance and cleared excess toxic iron from the heart associated with increased mortality in TM. Furthermore, effective L1 and L1/deferoxamine combination posology resulted in the complete elimination of EID and the maintenance of normal iron store levels in TM. The selection of effective chelation protocols has been monitored by MRI T2* diagnosis for EID levels in different organs. Millions of other iron-loaded patients with sickle cell anemia, myelodysplasia and haemopoietic stem cell transplantation, or non-iron-loaded categories with EID in different organs could also benefit from such chelation therapy advances. Drawbacks of chelation therapy include drug toxicity in some patients and also the wide use of suboptimal chelation protocols, resulting in ineffective therapies. Drug metabolic effects, and interactions with other metals, drugs and dietary molecules also affected iron chelation therapy. Drug selection and the identification of effective or optimal dose protocols are essential for positive therapeutic outcomes in the use of chelating drugs in TM and other iron-loaded and non-iron-loaded conditions, as well as general iron toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. Iron Load Toxicity in Medicine: From Molecular and Cellular Aspects to Clinical Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12928. [PMID: 37629109 PMCID: PMC10454416 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Iron is essential for all organisms and cells. Diseases of iron imbalance affect billions of patients, including those with iron overload and other forms of iron toxicity. Excess iron load is an adverse prognostic factor for all diseases and can cause serious organ damage and fatalities following chronic red blood cell transfusions in patients of many conditions, including hemoglobinopathies, myelodyspasia, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Similar toxicity of excess body iron load but at a slower rate of disease progression is found in idiopathic haemochromatosis patients. Excess iron deposition in different regions of the brain with suspected toxicity has been identified by MRI T2* and similar methods in many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Based on its role as the major biological catalyst of free radical reactions and the Fenton reaction, iron has also been implicated in all diseases associated with free radical pathology and tissue damage. Furthermore, the recent discovery of ferroptosis, which is a cell death program based on free radical generation by iron and cell membrane lipid oxidation, sparked thousands of investigations and the association of iron with cardiac, kidney, liver, and many other diseases, including cancer and infections. The toxicity implications of iron in a labile, non-protein bound form and its complexes with dietary molecules such as vitamin C and drugs such as doxorubicin and other xenobiotic molecules in relation to carcinogenesis and other forms of toxicity are also discussed. In each case and form of iron toxicity, the mechanistic insights, diagnostic criteria, and molecular interactions are essential for the design of new and effective therapeutic interventions and of future targeted therapeutic strategies. In particular, this approach has been successful for the treatment of most iron loading conditions and especially for the transition of thalassemia from a fatal to a chronic disease due to new therapeutic protocols resulting in the complete elimination of iron overload and of iron toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, 3, Ammochostou Street, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. The Vital Role Played by Deferiprone in the Transition of Thalassaemia from a Fatal to a Chronic Disease and Challenges in Its Repurposing for Use in Non-Iron-Loaded Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1016. [PMID: 37513928 PMCID: PMC10384919 DOI: 10.3390/ph16071016] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The iron chelating orphan drug deferiprone (L1), discovered over 40 years ago, has been used daily by patients across the world at high doses (75-100 mg/kg) for more than 30 years with no serious toxicity. The level of safety and the simple, inexpensive synthesis are some of the many unique properties of L1, which played a major role in the contribution of the drug in the transition of thalassaemia from a fatal to a chronic disease. Other unique and valuable clinical properties of L1 in relation to pharmacology and metabolism include: oral effectiveness, which improved compliance compared to the prototype therapy with subcutaneous deferoxamine; highly effective iron removal from all iron-loaded organs, particularly the heart, which is the major target organ of iron toxicity and the cause of mortality in thalassaemic patients; an ability to achieve negative iron balance, completely remove all excess iron, and maintain normal iron stores in thalassaemic patients; rapid absorption from the stomach and rapid clearance from the body, allowing a greater frequency of repeated administration and overall increased efficacy of iron excretion, which is dependent on the dose used and also the concentration achieved at the site of drug action; and its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and treat malignant, neurological, and microbial diseases affecting the brain. Some differential pharmacological activity by L1 among patients has been generally shown in relation to the absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, and toxicity (ADMET) of the drug. Unique properties exhibited by L1 in comparison to other drugs include specific protein interactions and antioxidant effects, such as iron removal from transferrin and lactoferrin; inhibition of iron and copper catalytic production of free radicals, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis; and inhibition of iron-containing proteins associated with different pathological conditions. The unique properties of L1 have attracted the interest of many investigators for drug repurposing and use in many pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative conditions, microbial conditions, renal conditions, free radical pathology, metal intoxication in relation to Fe, Cu, Al, Zn, Ga, In, U, and Pu, and other diseases. Similarly, the properties of L1 increase the prospects of its wider use in optimizing therapeutic efforts in many other fields of medicine, including synergies with other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Ghazaiean M, Aliasgharian A, Karami H, Darvishi-Khezri H. Ebselen: A promising therapy protecting cardiomyocytes from excess iron in iron-overloaded thalassemia patients. Open Med (Wars) 2023; 18:20230733. [PMID: 37465348 PMCID: PMC10350894 DOI: 10.1515/med-2023-0733] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Iron-overload-associated cardiomyopathy has been one of the primary causes of mortality in thalassemia patients with iron burden. There is growing evidence citing the beneficial effects of ebselen as an antioxidant selectively blocking the divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT-1) to deter iron ingress into cardiomyocytes, raising internets in viewing this component in this population in order to treat and even prevent cardiomyopathy occurring from iron surplus. In this article, we reviewed the potential advantageous effects of ebselen in thalassemia patients who suffer from iron excess, susceptible to cardiomyopathy induced by iron overload. A systematic search in several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, was conducted to explore the role of ebselen in controlling iron-overload-related cardiomyopathy in thalassemia patients by the keywords of Ebselen AND iron. The inclusion criteria were English-written preclinical and clinical studies investigating the efficacy and side effects of ebselen in an iron-overload context. After searching the databases, 44 articles were found. Next, of 19 published articles, 3 were included in this article. After reviewing the references of the included studies, no articles were added. In conclusion ebselen can be a promising adjuvant therapy in patients with thalassemia alongside the standard treatment with iron chelators, particularly in severe cases with cardiomyopathy, due to falling iron inflow by inhibiting DMT-1 and increasing ferroportin-1 expression and antioxidant properties. However, clinical studies need to be carried out to reach a definite conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobin Ghazaiean
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Aily Aliasgharian
- Thalassemia Research Center (TRC), Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hossein Karami
- Department of Pediatric, School of Medicine, Thalassemia Research Center (TRC), Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hadi Darvishi-Khezri
- Thalassemia Research Center (TRC), Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. Deferiprone and Iron-Maltol: Forty Years since Their Discovery and Insights into Their Drug Design, Development, Clinical Use and Future Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054970. [PMID: 36902402 PMCID: PMC10002863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054970] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The historical insights and background of the discovery, development and clinical use of deferiprone (L1) and the maltol-iron complex, which were discovered over 40 years ago, highlight the difficulties, complexities and efforts in general orphan drug development programs originating from academic centers. Deferiprone is widely used for the removal of excess iron in the treatment of iron overload diseases, but also in many other diseases associated with iron toxicity, as well as the modulation of iron metabolism pathways. The maltol-iron complex is a recently approved drug used for increasing iron intake in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, a condition affecting one-third to one-quarter of the world's population. Detailed insights into different aspects of drug development associated with L1 and the maltol-iron complex are revealed, including theoretical concepts of invention; drug discovery; new chemical synthesis; in vitro, in vivo and clinical screening; toxicology; pharmacology; and the optimization of dose protocols. The prospects of the application of these two drugs in many other diseases are discussed under the light of competing drugs from other academic and commercial centers and also different regulatory authorities. The underlying scientific and other strategies, as well as the many limitations in the present global scene of pharmaceuticals, are also highlighted, with an emphasis on the priorities for orphan drug and emergency medicine development, including the roles of the academic scientific community, pharmaceutical companies and patient organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Shah R, Shah A, Badawy SM. An evaluation of deferiprone as twice-a-day tablets or in combination therapy for the treatment of transfusional iron overload in thalassemia syndromes. Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:81-94. [PMID: 36755516 PMCID: PMC9992344 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2178409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Regular blood transfusions in patients with thalassemia syndromes can cause iron overload resulting in complications including cirrhosis, heart problems, or endocrine abnormalities. To prevent iron overload toxicity in these patients, three iron chelators are currently FDA-approved for use: deferoxamine, deferasirox, and deferiprone. In the United States, deferiprone has been approved for three times daily dosing since 2011 and has recently gained approval for twice-daily administration. AREAS COVERED A PubMed literature search was performed with the keywords 'deferiprone' and 'thalassemia.' Relevant original research studying deferiprone's effects on transfusional iron overload in patients with thalassemia syndromes was included. Exclusion criteria included case reports and review papers. Deferiprone is effective at reducing serum ferritin levels in patients with iron overload. Twice-daily administration provides a similar level of iron chelation as three times daily dosing with a comparable side effect profile and increased patient acceptability. EXPERT OPINION New studies are highlighting deferiprone's potential for combination therapy with either deferoxamine or deferasirox to improve iron chelation. Deferiprone's ability to significantly decrease cardiac and liver iron content can be utilized in other transfusion-dependent hematologic conditions, as evidenced by its recent approval for use in the United States for sickle cell disease or other anemias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Shah
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplant, Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Aashaka Shah
- University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Sherif M. Badawy
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplant, Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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Tran NT, Sutcharitchan P, Janprasit J, Rojnuckarin P, Morales NP, Luechapudiporn R. Deferiprone, an iron chelator, alleviates platelet hyperactivity in patients with β-thalassaemia/HbE. Drugs Context 2022; 11:dic-2022-7-6. [PMID: 36544626 PMCID: PMC9753601 DOI: 10.7573/dic.2022-7-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hyperfunctional platelets play important roles in thromboembolism in patients with β-thalassaemia/ haemoglobin E (β-thal/HbE). Our previous study revealed ex vivo inhibitory effects of deferiprone on normal platelets. Herein, we aimed to investigate the in vivo effects on platelets in patients with β-thal/HbE. Methods A prospective, self-controlled clinical study on 30 patients with β-thal/HbE who had received therapeutic deferiprone (20.8-94.5 mg/kg/day) was conducted. The study included a 4-week washout period followed by 4 and 12 weeks of deferiprone treatment. Platelet aggregation was performed by a turbidimetric method. Levels of deferiprone and soluble platelet (sP)-selectin in serum were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, respectively. Results The washout period significantly enhanced platelet hyperactivity both in patients who had undergone splenectomy and in those who had not. At 2 hours following the administration of a single dose of deferiprone, platelet sensitivity to ADP and arachidonic acid was significantly reduced. The inhibitory effects of deferiprone were gradually increased over the period of 4 and 12 weeks. Deferiprone also depressed sP-selectin levels, but the effect was stable over longer follow-up periods. Correlation analysis demonstrated the relationship between serum levels of deferiprone, sP-selectin, and platelet activities induced by ADP and arachidonic acid. Conclusion We first demonstrated the in vivo antiplatelet effect and benefit of short-term treatment of deferiprone in patients with β-thal/HbE. The impact on thrombotic outcomes deserves further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngan Thi Tran
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Program, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand,Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Haiphong University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Haiphong, Vietnam
| | - Pranee Sutcharitchan
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jindaporn Janprasit
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ponlapat Rojnuckarin
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Rataya Luechapudiporn
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand,Center of Excellence in Natural Products for Ageing and Chronic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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12
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Aaseth JO, Nurchi VM. Chelation Combination-A Strategy to Mitigate the Neurotoxicity of Manganese, Iron, and Copper? Biomolecules 2022; 12:1713. [PMID: 36421727 PMCID: PMC9687779 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The chelating thiol dimercaptosuccinate (DMSA) and the traditional agent D-penicillamine (PSH) are effective in enhancing the urinary excretion of copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) in poisoned individuals. However, DMSA, PSH, EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetate), and deferoxamine (DFOA) are water-soluble agents with limited access to the central nervous system (CNS). Strategies for mobilization of metals such as manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), and Cu from brain deposits may require the combined use of two agents: one water-soluble agent to remove circulating metal into urine, in addition to an adjuvant shuttler to facilitate the brain-to-blood mobilization. The present review discusses the chemical basis of metal chelation and the ligand exchange of metal ions. To obtain increased excretion of Mn, Cu, and Fe, early experiences showed promising results for CaEDTA, PSH, and DFOA, respectively. Recent experiments have indicated that p-amino salicylate (PAS) plus CaEDTA may be a useful combination to remove Mn from binding sites in CNS, while the deferasirox-DFOA and the tetrathiomolybdate-DMSA combinations may be preferable to promote mobilization of Fe and Cu, respectively, from the CNS. Further research is requested to explore benefits of chelator combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan O. Aaseth
- Department of Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, P.O. Box 104, N-2381 Brumunddal, Norway
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, P.O. Box 104, N-2418 Elverum, Norway
| | - Valeria M. Nurchi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
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13
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New Iron Metabolic Pathways and Chelation Targeting Strategies Affecting the Treatment of All Types and Stages of Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213990. [PMID: 36430469 PMCID: PMC9696688 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is new and increasing evidence from in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies implicating the pivotal role of iron and associated metabolic pathways in the initiation, progression and development of cancer and in cancer metastasis. New metabolic and toxicity mechanisms and pathways, as well as genomic, transcription and other factors, have been linked to cancer and many are related to iron. Accordingly, a number of new targets for iron chelators have been identified and characterized in new anticancer strategies, in addition to the classical restriction of/reduction in iron supply, the inhibition of transferrin iron delivery, the inhibition of ribonucleotide reductase in DNA synthesis and high antioxidant potential. The new targets include the removal of excess iron from iron-laden macrophages, which affects anticancer activity; the modulation of ferroptosis; ferritin iron removal and the control of hyperferritinemia; the inhibition of hypoxia related to the role of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF); modulation of the function of new molecular species such as STEAP4 metalloreductase and the metastasis suppressor N-MYC downstream-regulated gene-1 (NDRG1); modulation of the metabolic pathways of oxidative stress damage affecting mitochondrial function, etc. Many of these new, but also previously known associated iron metabolic pathways appear to affect all stages of cancer, as well as metastasis and drug resistance. Iron-chelating drugs and especially deferiprone (L1), has been shown in many recent studies to fulfill the role of multi-target anticancer drug linked to the above and also other iron targets, and has been proposed for phase II trials in cancer patients. In contrast, lipophilic chelators and their iron complexes are proposed for the induction of ferroptosis in some refractory or recurring tumors in drug resistance and metastasis where effective treatments are absent. There is a need to readdress cancer therapy and include therapeutic strategies targeting multifactorial processes, including the application of multi-targeting drugs involving iron chelators and iron-chelator complexes. New therapeutic protocols including drug combinations with L1 and other chelating drugs could increase anticancer activity, decrease drug resistance and metastasis, improve treatments, reduce toxicity and increase overall survival in cancer patients.
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14
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Bonadonna M, Altamura S, Tybl E, Palais G, Qatato M, Polycarpou-Schwarz M, Schneider M, Kalk C, Rüdiger W, Ertl A, Anstee N, Bogeska R, Helm D, Milsom MD, Galy B. Iron regulatory protein (IRP)-mediated iron homeostasis is critical for neutrophil development and differentiation in the bone marrow. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq4469. [PMID: 36197975 PMCID: PMC9534496 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq4469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Iron is mostly devoted to the hemoglobinization of erythrocytes for oxygen transport. However, emerging evidence points to a broader role for the metal in hematopoiesis, including the formation of the immune system. Iron availability in mammalian cells is controlled by iron-regulatory protein 1 (IRP1) and IRP2. We report that global disruption of both IRP1 and IRP2 in adult mice impairs neutrophil development and differentiation in the bone marrow, yielding immature neutrophils with abnormally high glycolytic and autophagic activity, resulting in neutropenia. IRPs promote neutrophil differentiation in a cell intrinsic manner by securing cellular iron supply together with transcriptional control of neutropoiesis to facilitate differentiation to fully mature neutrophils. Unlike neutrophils, monocyte count was not affected by IRP and iron deficiency, suggesting a lineage-specific effect of iron on myeloid output. This study unveils the previously unrecognized importance of IRPs and iron metabolism in the formation of a major branch of the innate immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bonadonna
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Biosciences Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sandro Altamura
- University of Heidelberg, Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Im Neuenheimer Feld 350, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Tybl
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- IB-Cancer Research Foundation, Science Park 2, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Gael Palais
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Qatato
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Polycarpou-Schwarz
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Schneider
- German Cancer Research Center, Mass Spectrometry based Protein Analysis Unit, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Kalk
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wibke Rüdiger
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alina Ertl
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Natasha Anstee
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Experimental Hematology”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ruzhica Bogeska
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Experimental Hematology”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dominic Helm
- German Cancer Research Center, Mass Spectrometry based Protein Analysis Unit, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael D. Milsom
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Experimental Hematology”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bruno Galy
- German Cancer Research Center, “Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis”, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Sriwichaiin S, Thiennimitr P, Thonusin C, Sarichai P, Buddhasiri S, Kumfu S, Nawara W, Kittichotirat W, Fucharoen S, Chattipakorn N, Chattipakorn SC. Deferiprone has less benefits on gut microbiota and metabolites in high iron-diet induced iron overload thalassemic mice than in iron overload wild-type mice: A preclinical study. Life Sci 2022; 307:120871. [PMID: 35952729 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to investigate the changes in gut microbiota in iron-overload thalassemia and the roles of an iron chelator on gut dysbiosis/inflammation, and metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). MAIN METHODS Adult male C57BL/6 mice both wild-type (WT: n = 15) and heterozygous β-thalassemia (BKO: n = 15) were fed on either a normal (ND: n = 5/group) or a high‑iron diet for four months (HFe: n = 10/group). HFe-treated WT and HFe-treated BKO groups were further subdivided into two subgroups and each subgroup given either vehicle (n = 5/subgroup) or deferiprone (n = 5/subgroup) during the last month. Gut microbiota profiles, gut barrier characteristics, levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and plasma SCFAs and TMAO were determined at the end of the study. KEY FINDINGS HFe-fed WT mice showed distinct gut microbiota profiles from those of ND-fed WT mice, whereas HFe-fed BKO mice showed slightly different gut microbiota profiles from ND-fed BKO. Gut inflammation and barrier disruption were found only in HFe-fed BKO mice, however, an increase in plasma TMAO levels and decreased levels of SCFAs were observed in both WT and BKO mice with HFe-feeding. Treatment with deferiprone, gut dysbiosis and disturbance of metabolites were attenuated in HFe-fed WT mice, but not in HFe-fed BKO mice. Increased Verrucomicrobia and Ruminococcaceae were associated with the beneficial effects of deferiprone. SIGNIFICANCE Iron-overload leads to gut dysbiosis/inflammation and disturbance of metabolites, and deferiprone alleviates those conditions more effectively in WT than in those that are thalassemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirawit Sriwichaiin
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Parameth Thiennimitr
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Chanisa Thonusin
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Phinitphong Sarichai
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Songphon Buddhasiri
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Department of Veterinary Bioscience and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sirinart Kumfu
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Wichwara Nawara
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Weerayuth Kittichotirat
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Program, School of Bioresources and Technology and School of Information Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok 10150, Thailand; Systems Biology and Bioinformatics Research Group, Pilot Plant Development and Training Institute, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok 10150, Thailand
| | - Suthat Fucharoen
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Siriporn C Chattipakorn
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
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16
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Clinical and Molecular Aspects of Iron Metabolism in Failing Myocytes. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12081203. [PMID: 36013382 PMCID: PMC9409945 DOI: 10.3390/life12081203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a common disease that causes significant limitations on the organism's capacity and, in extreme cases, leads to death. Clinically, iron deficiency (ID) plays an essential role in heart failure by deteriorating the patient's condition and is a prognostic marker indicating poor clinical outcomes. Therefore, in HF patients, supplementation of iron is recommended. However, iron treatment may cause adverse effects by increasing iron-related apoptosis and the production of oxygen radicals, which may cause additional heart damage. Furthermore, many knowledge gaps exist regarding the complex interplay between iron deficiency and heart failure. Here, we describe the current, comprehensive knowledge about the role of the proteins involved in iron metabolism. We will focus on the molecular and clinical aspects of iron deficiency in HF. We believe that summarizing the new advances in the translational and clinical research regarding iron deficiency in heart failure should broaden clinicians' awareness of this comorbidity.
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Zhang Y, Tian X, Jiao Y, Wang Y, Dong J, Yang N, Yang Q, Qu W, Wang W. Free iron rather than heme iron mainly induces oxidation of lipids and proteins in meat cooking. Food Chem 2022; 382:132345. [PMID: 35149466 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.132345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the relationship between different forms of iron (free or binding) and oxidation of lipids, proteins in meat system were investigated. Pork tenderloin was heated in 80 °C water bath for 0, 30, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300 min. Compared with control group, Equal and Treble deferiprone group confirmed that free iron was the main oxidizing substance. Moreover, adding exogenous heme caused slight increase of meat oxidation (p < 0.05). At the same time, the antioxidant properties of deferiprone were also evaluated and it shows few antioxidant properties. This study also found that the oxidation of lipid by free iron was more serious than protein. These results suggested that controlling free iron and production of free iron from heme is a potential approach for reducing the oxidative damage of lipid and protein in meat cooking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xiaojing Tian
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China.
| | - Yuzhen Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Juan Dong
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Qinghua Yang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Wei Qu
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Wenhang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China.
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. Deferiprone: A Forty-Year-Old Multi-Targeting Drug with Possible Activity against COVID-19 and Diseases of Similar Symptomatology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126735. [PMID: 35743183 PMCID: PMC9223898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The need for preparing new strategies for the design of emergency drug therapies against COVID-19 and similar diseases in the future is rather urgent, considering the high rate of morbidity and especially mortality associated with COVID-19, which so far has exceeded 18 million lives. Such strategies could be conceived by targeting the causes and also the serious toxic side effects of the diseases, as well as associated biochemical and physiological pathways. Deferiprone (L1) is an EMA- and FDA-approved drug used worldwide for the treatment of iron overload and also other conditions where there are no effective treatments. The multi-potent effects and high safety record of L1 in iron loaded and non-iron loaded categories of patients suggests that L1 could be developed as a “magic bullet” drug against COVID-19 and diseases of similar symptomatology. The mode of action of L1 includes antiviral, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-hypoxic and anti-ferroptotic effects, iron buffering interactions with transferrin, iron mobilizing effects from ferritin, macrophages and other cells involved in the immune response and hyperinflammation, as well as many other therapeutic interventions. Similarly, several pharmacological and other characteristics of L1, including extensive tissue distribution and low cost of production, increase the prospect of worldwide availability, as well as many other therapeutic approach strategies involving drug combinations, adjuvant therapies and disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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19
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Mechanistic Insights of Chelator Complexes with Essential Transition Metals: Antioxidant/Pro-Oxidant Activity and Applications in Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031247. [PMID: 35163169 PMCID: PMC8835618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The antioxidant/pro-oxidant activity of drugs and dietary molecules and their role in the maintenance of redox homeostasis, as well as the implications in health and different diseases, have not yet been fully evaluated. In particular, the redox activity and other interactions of drugs with essential redox metal ions, such as iron and copper, need further investigation. These metal ions are ubiquitous in human nutrition but also widely found in dietary supplements and appear to exert major effects on redox homeostasis in health, but also on many diseases of free radical pathology. In this context, the redox mechanistic insights of mainly three prototype groups of drugs, namely alpha-ketohydroxypyridines (alpha-hydroxypyridones), e.g., deferiprone, anthraquinones, e.g., doxorubicin and thiosemicarbazones, e.g., triapine and their metal complexes were examined; details of the mechanisms of their redox activity were reviewed, with emphasis on the biological implications and potential clinical applications, including anticancer activity. Furthermore, the redox properties of these three classes of chelators were compared to those of the iron chelating drugs and also to vitamin C, with an emphasis on their potential clinical interactions and future clinical application prospects in cancer, neurodegenerative and other diseases.
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20
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Iron chelation therapy with deferiprone improves oxidative status and red blood cell quality and reduces redox-active iron in β-thalassemia/hemoglobin E patients. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 145:112381. [PMID: 34736078 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxidative status of twenty-three β-thalassemia/hemoglobin E patients was evaluated after administration of 75 mg/kg deferiprone (GPO-L-ONE®) divided into 3 doses daily for 12 months. Serum ferritin was significantly decreased; the median value at the initial and final assessments was 2842 and 1719 ng/mL, respectively. Progressive improvement with significant changes in antioxidant enzyme activity, including plasma paraoxonase (PON) and platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH), and in antioxidant enzymes in red blood cells (glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) were observed at 3-6 months of treatment. The levels of total GSH in red blood cells were significantly increased at the end of the study. Improved red blood cell membrane integrity was also demonstrated using the EPR spin labeling technique. Membrane fluidity at the surface and hydrophobic regions of the red blood cell membrane was significantly changed after 12 months of treatment. In addition, a significant increase in hemoglobin content was observed (6.6 ± 0.7 and 7.5 ± 1.3 g/dL at the initial assessment and at 6 months, respectively). Correlations were observed between hemoglobin content, membrane fluidity and antioxidant enzymes in red blood cells. The antioxidant activity of deferiprone may partly be explained by progressive reduction of redox active iron that catalyzes free radical reactions, as demonstrated by the EPR spin trapping technique. In conclusion, iron chelation therapy with deferiprone notably improved the oxidative status in thalassemia, consequently reducing the risk of oxidative-related complications. Furthermore, the improvement in red blood cell quality may improve the anemia situation in patients.
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. Differences between the European Union and United States of America in Drug Regulatory Affairs Affect Global Patient Safety Standards and Public Health Awareness: The Case of Deferasirox and Other Iron Chelating Drugs. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:36. [PMID: 34357152 PMCID: PMC8304852 DOI: 10.3390/medicines8070036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory policies on drugs have a major impact on patient safety and survival. Some pharmaceutical companies employ all possible methods to achieve maximum sales in relation to the monopoly of their patented drugs, leading sometimes to irregularities and illegal activities. Misinformation on the orphan drug deferasirox has reached the stage of criminal investigations and fines exceeding USD 100 million. Additional lawsuits of USD 3.5 billion for damages and civil fines were also filed by the FBI of the USA involving deferasirox and mycophenolic acid, which were later settled with an additional fine of USD 390 million. Furthermore, a USD 345 million fine was also settled for bribes and other illegal overseas operations including an EU country. However, no similar fines for illegal practises or regulatory control violations have been issued in the EU. Misconceptions and a lack of clear guidelines for the use of deferasirox in comparison to deferiprone and deferoxamine appear to reduce the effective treatment prospects and to increase the toxicity risks for thalassaemia and other iron loaded patients. Similar issues have been raised for the activities of other pharmaceutical companies promoting the use of new patented versus generic drugs. Treatments for different categories of patients using new patented drugs are mostly market driven with no clear safeguards or guidelines for risk/benefit assessment indications or for individualised effective and safe optimum therapies. There is a need for the establishment of an international organisation, which can monitor and assess the risk/benefit assessment and marketing of drugs in the EU and globally for the benefit of patients. The pivotal role of the regulatory drug authorities and the prescribing physicians for identifying individualised optimum therapies is essential for improving the survival and safety of millions of patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Conventional and Unconventional Approaches for Innovative Drug Treatments in COVID-19: Looking Outside of Plato's Cave. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137208. [PMID: 34281262 PMCID: PMC8268874 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Kontoghiorghes GJ, Kolnagou A, Demetriou T, Neocleous M, Kontoghiorghe CN. New Era in the Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anaemia Using Trimaltol Iron and Other Lipophilic Iron Chelator Complexes: Historical Perspectives of Discovery and Future Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115546. [PMID: 34074010 PMCID: PMC8197347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The trimaltol iron complex (International Non-proprietary Name: ferric maltol) was originally designed, synthesised, and screened in vitro and in vivo in 1980–1981 by Kontoghiorghes G.J. following his discovery of the novel alpha-ketohydroxyheteroaromatic (KHP) class of iron chelators (1978–1981), which were intended for clinical use, including the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). Iron deficiency anaemia is a global health problem affecting about one-third of the world’s population. Many (and different) ferrous and ferric iron complex formulations are widely available and sold worldwide over the counter for the treatment of IDA. Almost all such complexes suffer from instability in the acidic environment of the stomach and competition from other dietary molecules or drugs. Natural and synthetic lipophilic KHP chelators, including maltol, have been shown in in vitro and in vivo studies to form stable iron complexes, to transfer iron across cell membranes, and to increase iron absorption in animals. Trimaltol iron, sold as Feraccru or Accrufer, was recently approved for clinical use in IDA patients in many countries, including the USA and in EU countries, and was shown to be effective and safe, with a better therapeutic index in comparison to other iron formulations. Similar properties of increased iron absorption were also shown by lipophilic iron complexes of 8-hydroxyquinoline, tropolone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxypyridine-1-oxide, and related analogues. The interactions of the KHP iron complexes with natural chelators, drugs, metal ions, proteins, and other molecules appear to affect the pharmacological and metabolic effects of both iron and the KHP chelators. A new era in the treatment of IDA and other possible clinical applications, such as theranostic and anticancer formulations and metal radiotracers in diagnostic medicine, are envisaged from the introduction of maltol, KHP, and similar lipophilic chelators.
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Trying to Solve the Puzzle of the Interaction of Ascorbic Acid and Iron: Redox, Chelation and Therapeutic Implications. MEDICINES 2020; 7:medicines7080045. [PMID: 32751493 PMCID: PMC7460366 DOI: 10.3390/medicines7080045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Iron and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) are essential nutrients for the normal growth and development of humans, and their deficiency can result in serious diseases. Their interaction is of nutritional, physiological, pharmacological and toxicological interest, with major implications in health and disease. Millions of people are using pharmaceutical and nutraceutical preparations of these two nutrients, including ferrous ascorbate for the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia and ascorbate combination with deferoxamine for increasing iron excretion in iron overload. The main function and use of vitamin C is its antioxidant activity against reactive oxygen species, which are implicated in many diseases of free radical pathology, including biomolecular-, cellular- and tissue damage-related diseases, as well as cancer and ageing. Ascorbic acid and its metabolites, including the ascorbate anion and oxalate, have metal binding capacity and bind iron, copper and other metals. The biological roles of ascorbate as a vitamin are affected by metal complexation, in particular following binding with iron and copper. Ascorbate forms a complex with Fe3+ followed by reduction to Fe2+, which may potentiate free radical production. The biological and clinical activities of iron, ascorbate and the ascorbate–iron complex can also be affected by many nutrients and pharmaceutical preparations. Optimal therapeutic strategies of improved efficacy and lower toxicity could be designed for the use of ascorbate, iron and the iron–ascorbate complex in different clinical conditions based on their absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity (ADMET), pharmacokinetic, redox and other properties. Similar strategies could also be designed in relation to their interactions with food components and pharmaceuticals, as well as in relation to other aspects concerning personalized medicine.
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Kontoghiorghes GJ, Kontoghiorghe CN. Iron and Chelation in Biochemistry and Medicine: New Approaches to Controlling Iron Metabolism and Treating Related Diseases. Cells 2020; 9:E1456. [PMID: 32545424 PMCID: PMC7349684 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Iron is essential for all living organisms. Many iron-containing proteins and metabolic pathways play a key role in almost all cellular and physiological functions. The diversity of the activity and function of iron and its associated pathologies is based on bond formation with adjacent ligands and the overall structure of the iron complex in proteins or with other biomolecules. The control of the metabolic pathways of iron absorption, utilization, recycling and excretion by iron-containing proteins ensures normal biologic and physiological activity. Abnormalities in iron-containing proteins, iron metabolic pathways and also other associated processes can lead to an array of diseases. These include iron deficiency, which affects more than a quarter of the world's population; hemoglobinopathies, which are the most common of the genetic disorders and idiopathic hemochromatosis. Iron is the most common catalyst of free radical production and oxidative stress which are implicated in tissue damage in most pathologic conditions, cancer initiation and progression, neurodegeneration and many other diseases. The interaction of iron and iron-containing proteins with dietary and xenobiotic molecules, including drugs, may affect iron metabolic and disease processes. Deferiprone, deferoxamine, deferasirox and other chelating drugs can offer therapeutic solutions for most diseases associated with iron metabolism including iron overload and deficiency, neurodegeneration and cancer, the detoxification of xenobiotic metals and most diseases associated with free radical pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J. Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, CY-3021 Limassol, Cyprus;
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. Advances on Chelation and Chelator Metal Complexes in Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E2499. [PMID: 32260293 PMCID: PMC7177276 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metal ions such as iron, copper and zinc are essential for life. Chelators (Chele, greek χειλή-claw of a crab) are organic molecules possessing specific ligands which have high affinity and can bind/carry metal ions and play very important roles in living systems e.g., haemoglobin, transferrin, phytochelators and microbial siderophores [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Department, Postgraduate Research Institute of Science, Technology, Environment and Medicine, 3 Ammochostou Street, Limassol 3021, Cyprus
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Kontoghiorghes GJ. How to manage iron toxicity in post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation? Expert Rev Hematol 2020; 13:299-302. [PMID: 32037922 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2020.1719359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- George J Kontoghiorghes
- Postgraduate Research Institute of Science Technology, Environment and Medicine, Limassol, Cyprus
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