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Eberhart T, Stanley FU, Ricci L, Chirico T, Ferrarese R, Sisti S, Scagliola A, Baj A, Badurek S, Sommer A, Culp-Hill R, Dzieciatkowska M, Shokry E, Sumpton D, D'Alessandro A, Clementi N, Mancini N, Cardaci S. ACOD1 deficiency offers protection in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity by maintaining a healthy gut microbiota. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:105. [PMID: 38302438 PMCID: PMC10834593 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06483-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Aconitate decarboxylase 1 (ACOD1) is the enzyme synthesizing itaconate, an immuno-regulatory metabolite tuning host-pathogen interactions. Such functions are achieved by affecting metabolic pathways regulating inflammation and microbe survival. However, at the whole-body level, metabolic roles of itaconate remain largely unresolved. By using multiomics-integrated approaches, here we show that ACOD1 responds to high-fat diet consumption in mice by promoting gut microbiota alterations supporting metabolic disease. Genetic disruption of itaconate biosynthesis protects mice against obesity, alterations in glucose homeostasis and liver metabolic dysfunctions by decreasing meta-inflammatory responses to dietary lipid overload. Mechanistically, fecal metagenomics and microbiota transplantation experiments demonstrate such effects are dependent on an amelioration of the intestinal ecosystem composition, skewed by high-fat diet feeding towards obesogenic phenotype. In particular, unbiased fecal microbiota profiling and axenic culture experiments point towards a primary role for itaconate in inhibiting growth of Bacteroidaceae and Bacteroides, family and genus of Bacteroidetes phylum, the major gut microbial taxon associated with metabolic health. Specularly to the effects imposed by Acod1 deficiency on fecal microbiota, oral itaconate consumption enhances diet-induced gut dysbiosis and associated obesogenic responses in mice. Unveiling an unrecognized role of itaconate, either endogenously produced or exogenously administered, in supporting microbiota alterations underlying diet-induced obesity in mice, our study points ACOD1 as a target against inflammatory consequences of overnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Eberhart
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Uchenna Stanley
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Ricci
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Chirico
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Ferrarese
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
- Synlab Italia, Castenedolo, BS, Italy
| | - Sofia Sisti
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scagliola
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare, INGM, "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", Milan, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Technological Innovation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Sylvia Badurek
- Preclinical Phenotyping Facility, Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities (VBCF), member of the Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Sommer
- Next Generation Sequencing Facility, Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities (VBCF), member of the Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Rachel Culp-Hill
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Monika Dzieciatkowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | | | | | - Angelo D'Alessandro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, 20100, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, 20100, Italy
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Department of Medicine and Technological Innovation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Virology, Fondazione Macchi University Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Simone Cardaci
- Cancer Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy.
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2
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Azzolini C, Premi E, Donati S, Falco A, Torreggiani A, Sicurello F, Baj A, Azzi L, Orro A, Porta G, Azzolini G, Sorrentino M, Melillo P, Testa F, Simonelli F, Giardina G, Paolucci U. Ten Years of Experience With a Telemedicine Platform Dedicated to Health Care Personnel: Implementation Report. JMIR Med Inform 2024; 12:e42847. [PMID: 38277199 PMCID: PMC10858419 DOI: 10.2196/42847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine, a term that encompasses several applications and tasks, generally involves the remote management and treatment of patients by physicians. It is known as transversal telemedicine when practiced among health care professionals (HCPs). OBJECTIVE We describe the experience of implementing our telemedicine Eumeda platform for HCPs over the last 10 years. METHODS A web-based informatics platform was developed that had continuously updated hypertext created using advanced technology and the following features: security, data insertion, dedicated software for image analysis, and the ability to export data for statistical surveys. Customizable files called "modules" were designed and built for different fields of medicine, mainly in the ophthalmology subspecialty. Each module was used by HCPs with different authorization profiles. IMPLEMENTATION (RESULTS) Twelve representative modules for different projects are presented in this manuscript. These modules evolved over time, with varying degrees of interconnectivity, including the participation of a number of centers in 19 cities across Italy. The number of HCP operators involved in each single module ranged from 6 to 114 (average 21.8, SD 28.5). Data related to 2574 participants were inserted across all the modules. The average percentage of completed text/image fields in the 12 modules was 65.7%. All modules were evaluated in terms of access, acceptability, and medical efficacy. In their final evaluation, the participants judged the modules to be useful and efficient for clinical use. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the usefulness of the telemedicine platform for HCPs in terms of improved knowledge in medicine, patient care, scientific research, teaching, and the choice of therapies. It would be useful to start similar projects across various health care fields, considering that in the near future medicine as we know it will completely change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Azzolini
- Advisory Council of e-Health and Telemedicine, University of Insubria of Varese-Como, Varese, Italy
- TM95 Srl, Milan, Italy
- Italian Association of Telemedicine and Medical Informatics, Milan, Italy
| | - Elias Premi
- Italian Association of Telemedicine and Medical Informatics, Milan, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Insubria, Varese-Como, Italy
| | - Simone Donati
- Italian Association of Telemedicine and Medical Informatics, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese-Como, Italy
| | - Andrea Falco
- TM95 Srl, Milan, Italy
- Alfa Design Studio, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Sicurello
- Italian Association of Telemedicine and Medical Informatics, Milan, Italy
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Milan, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese-Como, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese-Como, Italy
| | - Alessandro Orro
- TM95 Srl, Milan, Italy
- Italian Association of Telemedicine and Medical Informatics, Milan, Italy
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Porta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese-Como, Italy
| | | | | | - Paolo Melillo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Testa
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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3
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Biagini D, Oliveri P, Baj A, Gasperina DD, Ferrante FD, Lomonaco T, Ghimenti S, Lenzi A, Bonini A, Vivaldi F, Oger C, Galano JM, Balas L, Durand T, Maggi F, Di Francesco F. The effect of SARS-CoV-2 variants on the plasma oxylipins and PUFAs of COVID-19 patients. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2023; 169:106770. [PMID: 37633481 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2023.106770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Oxylipins are important signalling compounds that are significantly involved in the regulation of the immune system and the resolution of inflammation. Lipid metabolism is strongly activated upon SARS-CoV-2 infection, however the modulating effects of oxylipins induced by different variants remain unexplored. Here, we compare the plasma profiles of thirty-seven oxylipins and four PUFAs in subjects infected with Wild-type, Alpha (B.1.1.7), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529) variants. The results suggest that oxidative stress and inflammation resulting from COVID-19 were highly dependent on the SARS-CoV-2 variant, and that the Wild-type elicited the strongest inflammatory storm. The Alpha and Delta variants induced a comparable lipid profile alteration upon infection, which differed significantly from Omicron. The latter variant increased the levels of pro-inflammatory mediators and decreased the levels of omega-3 PUFA in infected patients. We speculate that changes in therapeutics, vaccination, and prior infections may have a role in the alteration of the oxylipin profile besides viral mutations. The results shed new light on the evolution of the inflammatory response in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Biagini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Technological Innovation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Tommaso Lomonaco
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Ghimenti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessio Lenzi
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Bonini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Vivaldi
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Camille Oger
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), Pôle Chimie Balard Recherche, University of Montpellier, ENSCN, UMR 5247 CNRS, France
| | - Jean-Marie Galano
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), Pôle Chimie Balard Recherche, University of Montpellier, ENSCN, UMR 5247 CNRS, France
| | - Laurence Balas
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), Pôle Chimie Balard Recherche, University of Montpellier, ENSCN, UMR 5247 CNRS, France
| | - Thierry Durand
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), Pôle Chimie Balard Recherche, University of Montpellier, ENSCN, UMR 5247 CNRS, France
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Di Francesco
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy.
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4
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Piralla A, Mojoli F, Pellegrinelli L, Ceriotti F, Valzano A, Grasselli G, Gismondo MR, Micheli V, Castelli A, Farina C, Arosio M, Lorini FL, Fanti D, Busni A, Laratta M, Maggi F, Novazzi F, Cabrini L, Callegaro AP, Keim R, Remuzzi G, Cavallero A, Malandrin SMI, Rona R, Giardina F, Ferrari G, Zavaglio F, D'angelo P, Galli C, Bubba L, Binda S, Oggioni M, Uceda Renteria SC, Bono P, Baj A, Ferrante FD, Guarneri D, Tonelli M, Napolitano G, Nava A, Romeo L, Nicolini E, Valaperta R, Varisano L, Mele C, Liguori L, Raggi M, Mongodi S, Pagani M, Severgnini P, Gasberti D, Bonanomi E, Gritti P, Marrazzo F, Giovannini I, Sacchi N, Sagliocco O, Cereda D, Buoro S, Baldanti F, Pariani E. Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and Delta variants in patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission for COVID-19, Northern Italy, December 2021 to January 2022. Respir Med Res 2023; 83:100990. [PMID: 36871459 PMCID: PMC9984278 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmer.2023.100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
This multicenter observational study included 171 COVID-19 adult patients hospitalized in the ICUs of nine hospitals in Lombardy (Northern Italy) from December, 1st 2021, to February, 9th 2022. During the study period, the Delta/Omicron variant ratio of cases decreased with a delay of two weeks in ICU patients compared to that in the community; a higher proportion of COVID-19 unvaccinated patients was infected by Delta than by Omicron whereas a higher rate of COVID-19 boosted patients was Omicron-infected. A higher number of comorbidities and a higher comorbidity score in ICU critically COVID-19 inpatients was positively associated with the Omicron infection as well in vaccinated individuals. Although people infected by Omicron have a lower risk of severe disease than those infected by Delta variant, the outcome, including the risk of ICU admission and the need for mechanical ventilation due to infection by Omicron versus Delta, remains uncertain. The continuous monitoring of the circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants remains a milestone to counteract this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Piralla
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Francesco Mojoli
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Pellegrinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Ceriotti
- Clinical Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Valzano
- Clinical Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Grasselli
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Emergency, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Gismondo
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Virology and Bioemergencies, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Micheli
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Virology and Bioemergencies, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Castelli
- Division of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Farina
- Microbiology and Virology Laboratory, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marco Arosio
- Microbiology and Virology Laboratory, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | | | - Diana Fanti
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Busni
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Laratta
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Ospedale Niguarda, Università degli studi Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Luca Cabrini
- Intensive Care and Anesthesia Unit, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Roberto Rona
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, San Gerardo Hospital ASST Monza, Monza, Italy
| | - Federica Giardina
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Ferrari
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Federica Zavaglio
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Piera D'angelo
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Galli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Bubba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Binda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Oggioni
- Clinical Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Bono
- Clinical Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Davide Guarneri
- Microbiology and Virology Laboratory, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marco Tonelli
- Microbiology and Virology Laboratory, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Gavino Napolitano
- Microbiology and Virology Laboratory, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Alice Nava
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Romeo
- Residency in Microbiology and Virology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan
| | - Elena Nicolini
- Residency in Microbiology and Virology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan
| | | | | | - Caterina Mele
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genetics of Rare Diseases, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS
| | - Lucia Liguori
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genetics of Rare Diseases, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS
| | - Monica Raggi
- Microbiology Laboratory San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Silvia Mongodi
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michele Pagani
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Severgnini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Dario Gasberti
- Intensive Care and Anesthesia Unit, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, Varese, Italy
| | - Ezio Bonanomi
- Department of Emergency and ICU, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Paolo Gritti
- Department of Emergency and ICU, ASST "Papa Giovanni XXIII", Bergamo, Italy
| | - Francesco Marrazzo
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Ospedale Niguarda, Università degli studi Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Giovannini
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Ospedale Niguarda, Università degli studi Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Danilo Cereda
- Direzione Generale Welfare, Regione Lombardia, Milan, Italy
| | - Sabrina Buoro
- Direzione Generale Welfare, Regione Lombardia, Milan, Italy
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- Microbiology and Virology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Pariani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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5
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Focosi D, Baj A, Azzi L, Novazzi F, Maggi F. TTV viral load as a predictor of antibody response to SARS COV-2 vaccination. J Heart Lung Transplant 2023; 42:143-144. [PMID: 36424253 PMCID: PMC9637281 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2022.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The measure of torquetenovirus (TTV) viremia is widely recognized as an optimal biomarker of an individual immune status. In the context of COVID-19, the predictive role of TTV load with regard to vaccine response has also been demonstrated, suggesting other intriguing applications for this widespread anellovirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria
| | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria
| | | | - Fabrizio Maggi
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani", Roma, Italy
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6
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Novazzi F, Giombini E, Rueca M, Baj A, Fabeni L, Genoni A, Ferrante FD, Gramigna G, Gruber CEM, Boutahar S, Minosse C, Butera O, Pasciuta R, Focosi D, Colombo A, Antinori A, Girardi E, Vaia F, Maggi F. Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 positive passengers on flights from China to Italy, December 2022. Euro Surveill 2023; 28:2300008. [PMID: 36695479 PMCID: PMC9837854 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2023.28.2.2300008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
With numbers of COVID-19 cases having substantially increased at the end of 2022 in China, some countries have started or expanded testing and genomic surveillance of travellers. We report screening results in Italy in late December 2022 of 556 flight passengers in provenance from two Chinese provinces. Among these passengers, 126 (22.7%) tested SARS-CoV-2 positive. Whole genome sequencing of 61 passengers' positive samples revealed Omicron variants, notably sub-lineages BA.5.2.48, BF.7.14 and BQ.1.1, in line with data released from China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Novazzi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Emanuela Giombini
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Rueca
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lavinia Fabeni
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Gramigna
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Sara Boutahar
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Claudia Minosse
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ornella Butera
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Renee Pasciuta
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Antinori
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Girardi
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Vaia
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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7
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Azzi L, Dalla Gasperina D, Veronesi G, Shallak M, Maurino V, Baj A, Gianfagna F, Cavallo P, Dentali F, Tettamanti L, Maggi F, Maffioli LS, Tagliabue A, Accolla RS, Forlani G. Mucosal immune response after the booster dose of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine. EBioMedicine 2023; 88:104435. [PMID: 36628844 PMCID: PMC9828819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, only a few studies reported data regarding the development of mucosal immune response after the BNT162b2-booster vaccination. METHODS Samples of both serum and saliva of 50 healthcare workers were collected at the day of the booster dose (T3) and after two weeks (T4). Anti-S1-protein IgG and IgA antibody titres and the neutralizing antibodies against the Wuhan wild-type Receptor-Binding Domain in both serum and saliva were measured by quantitative and competitive ELISA, respectively. Data were compared with those recorded after the primary vaccination cycle (T2). Neutralizing antibodies against the variants of concern were measured in those individuals with anti-Wuhan neutralizing antibodies in their saliva. FINDINGS After eight months from the second dose, IgG decreased in both serum (T2GMC: 23,838.5 ng/ml; T3GMC: 1473.8 ng/ml) and saliva (T2GMC: 12.9 ng/ml; T3GMC: 0.3 ng/ml). Consistently, serum IgA decreased (T2GMC: 48.6 ng/ml; T3GMC: 6.4 ng/ml); however, salivary IgA showed a different behaviour and increased (T2GMC: 0.06 ng/ml; T3GMC: 0.41 ng/ml), indicating a delayed activation of mucosal immunity. The booster elicited higher titres of both IgG and IgA when compared with the primary cycle, in both serum (IgG T4GMC: 98,493.9 ng/ml; IgA T4GMC: 187.5 ng/ml) and saliva (IgG T4GMC: 21.9 ng/ml; IgA T4GMC: 0.65 ng/ml). Moreover, the booster re-established the neutralizing activity in the serum of all individuals, not only against the Wuhan wild-type antigen (N = 50; INH: 91.6%) but also against the variants (Delta INH: 91.3%; Delta Plus INH: 89.8%; Omicron BA.1 INH: 85.1%). By contrast, the salivary neutralizing activity was high against the Wuhan antigen in 72% of individuals (N = 36, INH: 62.2%), but decreased against the variants, especially against the Omicron BA.1 variant (Delta N = 27, INH: 43.1%; Delta Plus N = 24, INH: 35.2%; Omicron BA.1 N = 4; INH: 4.7%). This was suggestive for a different behaviour of systemic immunity observed in serum with respect to mucosal immunity described in saliva (Wald chi-square test, 3 df of interaction between variants and sample type = 308.2, p < 0.0001). INTERPRETATION The BNT162b2-booster vaccination elicits a strong systemic immune response but fails in activating an effective mucosal immunity against the Omicron BA.1 variant. FUNDING This work was funded by the Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, and supported by Fondazione Umberto Veronesi (COVID-19 Insieme per la ricerca di tutti, 2020), Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Azzi
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Dalla Gasperina
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giovanni Veronesi
- Research Centre in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Mariam Shallak
- Laboratory of General Pathology and Immunology “Giovanna Tosi”, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Vittorio Maurino
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Biotechnologies and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Gianfagna
- Research Centre in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy,Mediterranea Cardiocentro, Naples, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Cavallo
- Department of Physics, University of Salerno, Fisciano (SA), Italy,Institute for Complex Systems, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lucia Tettamanti
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Biotechnologies and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Angelo Tagliabue
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Roberto Sergio Accolla
- Laboratory of General Pathology and Immunology “Giovanna Tosi”, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Greta Forlani
- Laboratory of General Pathology and Immunology "Giovanna Tosi", Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
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8
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Spezia PG, Focosi D, Baj A, Novazzi F, Ferrante FD, Carletti F, Minosse C, Matusali G, Maggi F. TTV and other anelloviruses: The astonishingly wide spread of a viral infection. Asp Mol Med 2023; 1:None. [PMID: 37398508 PMCID: PMC10308510 DOI: 10.1016/j.amolm.2023.100006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
The broad family of viruses known as anelloviruses (AV) infects both humans and numerous animal species. They have a tiny, covalently closed single-stranded DNA genome and the astonishing capacity to infect a very high percentage of healthy and ill people with chronic infections that could last a lifetime. AV, and particularly the prototype Torquetenovirus, have established a successful interaction with the host's immune system and the rate at which they replicate is a gauge to measure overall immune function, even though many aspects of their life cycle and pathogenesis are still poorly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Carletti
- Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety Laboratories, National Institute of Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Minosse
- Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety Laboratories, National Institute of Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Matusali
- Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety Laboratories, National Institute of Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety Laboratories, National Institute of Infectious Diseases “L. Spallanzani” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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9
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Goker F, Beretta P, Baj A, Bolzoni AR, Maiorana C, Beltramini G, Russillo A, Greco Lucchina A, Rossi DS, Polo MRD, Del Fabbro M, Mortellaro C, Giannì AB. Oral rehabilitation of oncology patients with dental implants after reconstruction surgery with autogenous flaps. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2022; 26:51-61. [PMID: 36591879 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202212_30795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reconstruction after radical cancer surgery in terms of function and esthetics can be quite demanding. The aim of this study was to evaluate oral rehabilitation with autogenous flaps and dental implants for maxillofacial reconstruction in oncologic patients after implant insertions. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study consisted of 19 patients diagnosed with either squamous cell carcinoma, fusocellular carcinoma, or mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The reconstruction of the maxillofacial defects was done with autogenous flaps (free fibular flap, antero-lateral thigh flap, radial forearm flap, or rotational pedicled temporal muscle flap). Implants were inserted on the average 32.03±19.51 months after reconstructive operations. A total of 82 implants were inserted. Mean follow-up after maxillo-facial surgery was 7.2 years (mean 86.56±22.04 months). Mean follow-up after implant insertions was 4.5 years (mean 54.6±21.82). Primary outcome was implant survival. Secondary outcome was evaluation of post-surgical complications. RESULTS There were surgical revisions in seven patients after reconstructive surgery with flaps, mainly due to tumor relapse. Complications were seen in 11 patients. There was one implant failure. Overall implant survival rate was 98.8%. No relations were found between implant survival rate and gender, type of tumor, type of microvascular free flap, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and prosthesis type. CONCLUSIONS According to the results of this study, oral rehabilitation with dental implants inserted in free flaps for maxillofacial reconstruction after ablative oncologic surgery can be considered as a safe treatment modality with successful outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Goker
- University of Milano, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Milan, Italy.
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10
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Rossi DS, Goker F, Cullati F, Baj A, Pignatelli D, Beltramini G, Russillo A, Giannì AB, Lucchina AG, Mortellaro C, Del Fabbro M. Analysis and comparison of quality of life and patients' satisfaction between dental-skeletal dysmorphisms and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) patients following orthognathic surgery. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2022; 26:62-77. [PMID: 36591880 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202212_30796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of orthognathic surgery on the patients' satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) in patients with dental skeletal dysmorphisms and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). SUBJECTS AND METHODS Patients were grouped into two cohorts, patients with OSA (G1) and patients with dento-skeletal dysmorphisms (G2). SF-36 questionnaire was obtained from all subjects before interventions. A standardized follow-up protocol, including a second SF-36 questionnaire was planned as at least 6 months after surgery. The impact of surgery on satisfaction was evaluated by post-operative patient satisfaction-based survey. RESULTS 61 patients were included as: 21 OSA (G1), 12 Class II (G2-a) and 28 Class III (G2-b) patients. The mean post-operative follow-up was 65.47±26.36 months. In the SF-36 results, when pre and post operative surveys were compared, the quality of life increased significantly for G1 in all items except for body pain. In G2, when pre and post operative surveys were compared, the quality of life increased significantly in items related to emotional well-being, health transition, role limitations due to emotional problems, while other parameters did not significantly change. When groups were compared, there was no difference among them except for physical functioning which was improved for OSA patients. According to the Rustemeyer results, overall post-operative satisfaction score was 84.92±14.72%. There was a significant difference for patient satisfaction considering facial aesthetics in both groups. For chewing function there was no difference for patient satisfaction in G1, but there was a significant difference in G2 patients. CONCLUSIONS Orthognathic surgery seems to be beneficial in terms of patients' satisfaction and patients' satisfaction for both dental skeletal dysmorphism and OSA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Rossi
- Dental and Maxillo-Facial Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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11
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Goker F, Russillo A, Baj A, Giannì AB, Beltramini G, Rossi DS, Buccellato FRP, Mortellaro C, Del Fabbro M. Custom made/patient specific alloplastic total temporomandibular joint replacement in immature patient: a case report and short review of literature. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2022; 26:26-34. [PMID: 36591882 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202212_30792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Temporomandibular joint reconstructive surgery in a growing patient represents a challenging situation. Autogenous and alloplastic reconstructive options are being studied in literature; however, there are still some limitations. The objective of this case report is to evaluate a novel custom-made prosthetic system in a 12-year-old TMJ ankylosis patient. CASE PRESENTATION The patient had complaints of temporomandibular joint ankylosis and hypoplasia. The patient had already been operated two times with autogenous grafts. Swelling and tumefaction were apparent on the right side of the face. Mouth opening was 1.5 centimeters, with limitations in lateral and protrusive movements of the jaws. Hypertonic muscles and pain upon palpation were registered. There were no signs of luxation, fracture, or traumatic avulsion. After examination, unilateral TMJ ankylosis was apparent on TC scans. Revision surgery was planned with the use of true plastic temporomandibular joint customized prosthesis. The patient underwent a TMJ reconstruction surgery using CADCAM custom-made patient specific prosthesis. The follow up period of this patient was 46 months and showed successful healing with no complications. CONCLUSIONS Replacement of TMJ with custom made alloplastic material that is reported can be considered as a safe and useful option for growing young individuals in selected cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Goker
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Milano University, Milan, Italy.
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12
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Goker F, Mazzucato C, Maggioni M, Baj A, Giannì AB, Beltramini G, Russillo A, Buccellato FRP, Rossi DS, Mortellaro C, Del Fabbro M. Solitary fibrous tumor of parotid gland: a case report and short review of literature. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2022; 26:45-50. [PMID: 36591884 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202212_30794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This case report represents a solitary fibrous tumor, which is a very rare neoplasm in the parotid gland. CASE PRESENTATION 80-year-old Caucasian female patient with palpable, immobile, painless, slow growing, semi-rigid-elastic neoplasm in the left parotid gland, that was existing for four months. There were no signs of inflammation and facial paralysis. The tumor was initially interpreted as a salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain origin. Fine needle aspiration was performed 2 times; however, the precise diagnosis was challenging. The tumor was excised, regional lymphadenectomy was performed. Morphological and immunophenotypical findings were consistent with solitary fibrous tumor of parotid gland. Currently, the patient is under regular follow-up period at 9 months with no evidence of metastasis or recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Although very rare, solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) should be suspected in cases of slow growing, solid, well-defined nodules of the parotid gland. The SFT of the parotid gland are usually benign tumors, however there is a low risk of recurrency and malignant behavior with metastatic potential. Complete resection of the tumor should be performed since it is crucial for management without any recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Goker
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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13
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Bosi A, Banfi D, Bistoletti M, Catizzone LM, Chiaravalli AM, Moretto P, Moro E, Karousou E, Viola M, Giron MC, Crema F, Rossetti C, Binelli G, Passi A, Vigetti D, Giaroni C, Baj A. Hyaluronan Regulates Neuronal and Immune Function in the Rat Small Intestine and Colonic Microbiota after Ischemic/Reperfusion Injury. Cells 2022; 11:3370. [PMID: 36359764 PMCID: PMC9657036 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal ischemia and reperfusion (IRI) injury induces acute and long-lasting damage to the neuromuscular compartment and dysmotility. This study aims to evaluate the pathogenetic role of hyaluronan (HA), a glycosaminoglycan component of the extracellular matrix, as a modulator of the enteric neuronal and immune function and of the colonic microbiota during in vivo IRI in the rat small intestine. METHODS mesenteric ischemia was induced in anesthetized adult male rats for 60 min, followed by 24 h reperfusion. Injured, sham-operated and non-injured animals were treated with the HA synthesis inhibitor, 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU 25 mg/kg). Fecal microbiota composition was evaluated by Next Generation Sequencing. Neutrophil infiltration, HA homeostasis and toll like receptor (TLR2 and TLR4) expression in the small intestine were evaluated by immunohistochemical and biomolecular approaches (qRT-PCR and Western blotting). Neuromuscular responses were studied in vitro, in the absence and presence of the selective TLR2/4 inhibitor, Sparstolonin B (SsnB 10, 30 µM). RESULTS 4-MU significantly reduced IRI-induced enhancement of potentially harmful Escherichia and Enterococcus bacteria. After IRI, HA levels, neutrophil infiltration, and TLR2 and TLR4 expression were significantly enhanced in the muscularis propria, and were significantly reduced to baseline levels by 4-MU. In the injured, but not in the non-injured and sham-operated groups, SsnB reduced both electrical field-stimulated (EFS, 0.1-40 Hz) contractions and EFS-induced (10 Hz) non-cholinergic non-adrenergic relaxations. CONCLUSIONS enhanced HA levels after intestinal IRI favors harmful bacteria overgrowth, increases neutrophil infiltration and promotes the upregulation of bacterial target receptors, TLR2 and TLR4, in the muscularis propria, inducing a pro-inflammatory state. TLR2 and TLR4 activation may, however, underlay a provisional benefit on excitatory and inhibitory neuronal pathways underlying peristalsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bosi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Davide Banfi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Michela Bistoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Paola Moretto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Moro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Evgenia Karousou
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Manuela Viola
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Maria Cecilia Giron
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Crema
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Rossetti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Giorgio Binelli
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Alberto Passi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Davide Vigetti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
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14
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Focosi D, Novazzi F, Baj A, Maggi F. Monkeypox: An international epidemic. Rev Med Virol 2022; 32:e2392. [PMID: 36029181 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Human monkeypox (MPX) is a viral zoonosis caused by the Monkeypox virus. For decades outbreaks exclusively occurred in the tropical rainforests of Africa, with a few imported cases and very limited human-to-human transmission outside Africa. Nevertheless, in the last years sustained outbreaks have emerged, peaking at 4600 cases in 2020 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since May 2022, an international epidemic originated at 2 events in Spain and Belgium led to sustained human-to-human transmission across multiple continents, mostly in males having sex with males subjects. We review here clinical presentation, epidemiology, viral evolution, vaccines, and therapeutics against human MPX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Istituto Nazionale Malattie Infettive "Lazzaro Spallanzani", Rome, Italy
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15
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Focosi D, Novazzi F, Baj A, Ferrante FD, Boutahar S, Genoni AP, Gasperina DD, Maggi F. Sotrovimab-emergent resistance in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron: A series of three cases. Journal of Clinical Virology Plus 2022; 2:100097. [PMID: 35789899 PMCID: PMC9238025 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcvp.2022.100097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Italy
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Sara Boutahar
- Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Genoni
- Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Dalla Gasperina
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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16
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Baj A, Gasperina DD, Focosi D, Forlani G, Ferrante FD, Novazzi F, Azzi L, Maggi F. Safety and immunogenicity of synchronous COVID19 and influenza vaccination. J Clin Virol Plus 2022; 2:100082. [PMID: 35571072 PMCID: PMC9077796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcvp.2022.100082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the ongoing COVID19 pandemic, the decline in serological response since dose 2, and the upcoming flu season, COVID19 vaccines will increasingly be administered in combination with vaccines against seasonal pathogens. It is of interest to confirm that concurrent vaccination against influenzavirus has no negative impact on serological response to SARS CoV-2. Anti-Spike IgG and Anti-Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) Neutralizing Antibodies (NAb) in serum was assessed in 64 immunocompetent healthcare workers (HCW) before and 14 days post the third dose of BNT162b2 vaccine (Comirnaty®, Pfizer/BioNTech) or BNT162b2 plus quadrivalent flu vaccine (Vaxigript Tetra ®Sanofi Pasteur) on the same day. We report here safety and efficacy of combined BNT162b2 and flu vaccine in 64 healthcare workers at a single institution. No differences were found in adverse events or anti-Spike antibody levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Greta Forlani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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17
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Salvini M, Damonte C, Mortara L, Maggi F, Bruno A, Pellegrini G, Mora B, Brociner M, Ingrassia A, Mattarucchi R, Bianchi B, Sirocchi D, Agnoli S, Rumi E, Merli M, Fossati A, Bassi S, Bombelli R, Gallazzi M, Borsani O, Baj A, Franchi M, Grossi PA, Passamonti F. Immunogenicity and clinical efficacy of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with hematological malignancies: Results of a prospective cohort study of 365 patients. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:E321-E324. [PMID: 35702859 PMCID: PMC9349729 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Salvini
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy
| | - Camilla Damonte
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Mortara
- Laboratory of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Antonino Bruno
- Laboratory of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pellegrini
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.,National Centre for Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Mora
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Elisa Rumi
- Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michele Merli
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Susanna Bassi
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy
| | - Raffaella Bombelli
- Laboratory of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Matteo Gallazzi
- Laboratory of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Oscar Borsani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Matteo Franchi
- National Centre for Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo A Grossi
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Passamonti
- ASST Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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18
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Orlandi VT, Martegani E, Giaroni C, Baj A, Bolognese F. Bacterial pigments: A colorful palette reservoir for biotechnological applications. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2022; 69:981-1001. [PMID: 33870552 PMCID: PMC9544673 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic derivatives are currently used instead of pigments in many applicative fields, from food to feed, from pharmaceutical to diagnostic, from agronomy to industry. Progress in organic chemistry allowed to obtain rather cheap compounds covering the whole color spectrum. However, several concerns arise from this chemical approach, as it is mainly based on nonrenewable resources such as fossil oil, and the toxicity or carcinogenic properties of products and/or precursors may be harmful for personnel involved in the productive processes. In this scenario, microorganisms and their pigments represent a colorful world to discover and reconsider. Each living bacterial strain may be a source of secondary metabolites with peculiar functions. The aim of this review is to link the physiological role of bacterial pigments with their potential use in different biotechnological fields. This enormous potential supports the big challenge for the development of strategies useful to identify, produce, and purify the right pigment for the desired application. At the end of this ideal journey through the world of bacterial pigments, the attention will be focused on melanin compounds, whose production relies upon different techniques ranging from natural producers, heterologous hosts, or isolated enzymes. In a green workflow, the microorganisms represent the starting and final point of pigment production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eleonora Martegani
- Department of Biotechnologies and Life SciencesUniversity of InsubriaVareseItaly
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of InsubriaVareseItaly
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of InsubriaVareseItaly
| | - Fabrizio Bolognese
- Department of Biotechnologies and Life SciencesUniversity of InsubriaVareseItaly
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19
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Stincarelli MA, Baj A, Guidotti B, Spezia PG, Novazzi F, Lucenteforte E, Tillati S, Focosi D, Maggi F, Giannecchini S. Plasma Torquetenovirus (TTV) microRNAs and severity of COVID-19. Virol J 2022; 19:79. [PMID: 35562762 PMCID: PMC9099037 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-022-01812-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Torquetenovirus (TTV), a widespread anellovirus recognized as the main component of the healthy human virome, displays viremia that is highly susceptible to variations in immune competence. TTV possesses microRNA (miRNA)-coding sequences that might be involved in viral immune evasion. Among TTV-encoded miRNAs, miRNA t1a, t3b, and tth8 have been found in biological fluids. Here, the presence of TTV DNA and TTV miRNAs in the plasma of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected subjects was investigated to monitor the possible association with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity. Methods Detection of TTV DNA and miRNA t1a, t3b, and tth8 was investigated in plasma samples of 56 SARS-CoV-2-infected subjects with a spectrum of different COVID-19 outcomes. TTV DNA and TTV miRNAs were assessed with a universal single step real-time TaqMan PCR assay and miRNA quantitative RT-PCR miRNA assay, respectively. Results The TTV DNA prevalence was 59%, whereas at least one TTV miRNA was found in 94% of the patients tested. miRNA tth8 was detected in 91% of subjects, followed by miRNAs t3b (64%) and miRNAt1a (30%). Remarkably, although TTV DNA was unrelated to COVID-19 severity, miRNA tth8 was significantly associated with the degree of disease (adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) 2.04, 95% CI 1.14–3.63, for the subjects in the high severity group compared to those in the low severity group). Conclusions Our findings encourage further investigation to understand the potential role of TTV miRNAs in the different outcomes of COVID-19 at early and late stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alfreda Stincarelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 48, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - Bernardo Guidotti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 48, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Federica Novazzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - Ersilia Lucenteforte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Tillati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - Simone Giannecchini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 48, 50134, Florence, Italy.
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20
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Novazzi F, Focosi D, Baj A, Ambrosini A, Bouthar S, Maggi F. SARS-CoV-2 RECOMBINANT XN, ITALY. Journal of Clinical Virology Plus 2022; 2:100084. [PMID: 35620035 PMCID: PMC9122836 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcvp.2022.100084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Novazzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andrea Ambrosini
- Nephrology Department, ASST-Settelaghi and University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Sara Bouthar
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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21
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Tanda ML, Ippolito S, Gallo D, Baj A, Novazzi F, Genoni A, Annoni M, Mancini N, Clementi N, Finzi G, Piantanida E, Premoli P, Lai A, Dalla Gasperina D, Maggi F, Uccella S. SARS-CoV-2 detection in primary thyroid sarcoma: coincidence or interaction? J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1059-1063. [PMID: 34984625 PMCID: PMC8727071 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01722-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thyroid dysfunctions associated with SARS-CoV-2 are emerging in scientific literature. During the second COVID-19 epidemic spread, we evaluated a patient with the suspect of subacute thyroiditis. METHODS AND RESULTS Specimen from fine-needle aspiration of a hypoechoic undefined area was analyzed for cytology and for SARS-CoV-2 detection. SARS-CoV-2 was retrieved by real-time polymerase chain reaction on the cytologic sample, which was then cultured on Vero E6 cells and demonstrated to be cytopathic. Whole-genome sequence was deposited. Histological exam diagnosed a rare case of primary thyroid sarcoma with diffuse and strong expression of mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2) oncoprotein. Ultrastructural examination confirmed, in several neoplastic cells, the presence of viral particles in cytoplasmic vacuoles. CONCLUSIONS In our hypothesis, SARS-CoV-2 and sarcoma coexistence could represent a synergistic interplay, ultimately favoring both viral persistence and tumor proliferation: the overexpression of MDM2 in tumor cells might have generated a favorable immunological niche for SARS-CoV-2 localization and, in turn, SARS-CoV-2 could have favored tumor growth by inducing MDM2-mediated p53 downregulation. Functional studies are needed to confirm this suggestive pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Tanda
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, 21100, Varese, Italy.
| | - S Ippolito
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - D Gallo
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - A Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - F Novazzi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - A Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - M Annoni
- Endocrine Metabolic Surgery, ASST Dei SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - N Mancini
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - N Clementi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - G Finzi
- Pathology Unit, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - E Piantanida
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - P Premoli
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - A Lai
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - D Dalla Gasperina
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - F Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - S Uccella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Pathology Unit, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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22
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Abstract
We report 25 cases of infection with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant containing spike protein L452R mutation in northern Lombardy, Italy. Prevalence of this variant was >30% in this region, compared with <0.5% worldwide. Many laboratories are using previously developed L452R-specific PCRs to discriminate Omicron from Delta mutations, but these tests may be unreliable.
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23
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Novazzi F, Baj A, Pasciuta R, Genoni A, Ferrante FD, Tripiciano R, Catanoso G, Focosi D, Maggi F. A CLUSTER OF SARS-COV-2 DELTA VARIANT OF CONCERN ADDITIONALLY HARBORING F490S, NORTHERN LOMBARDY, ITALY. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 116:271-272. [PMID: 34995777 PMCID: PMC8731264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.12.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Delta variant of concern (VOC) of SARS-CoV-2 has become dominant worldwide. In this article, we report a cluster caused by B.1.617.2 harboring the additional mutation of concern (MOC) F490S. We observed that 5 fully vaccinated subjects aged between 47 and 84 years were infected with this variant. The immune escape mutation F490S, first identified in the Lambda VOI, appears to impair vaccine efficacy and is rapidly increasing in prevalence worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
| | - Renee Pasciuta
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST SetteLaghi, Varese, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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24
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Azzi L, Dalla Gasperina D, Veronesi G, Shallak M, Ietto G, Iovino D, Baj A, Gianfagna F, Maurino V, Focosi D, Maggi F, Ferrario MM, Dentali F, Carcano G, Tagliabue A, Maffioli LS, Accolla RS, Forlani G. Mucosal immune response in BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine recipients. EBioMedicine 2022; 75:103788. [PMID: 34954658 PMCID: PMC8718969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine is known to induce IgG neutralizing antibodies in serum protecting against COVID-19, it has not been studied in detail whether it could generate specific immunity at mucosal sites, which represent the primary route of entry of SARS-CoV-2. METHODS Samples of serum and saliva of 60 BNT162b2-vaccinated healthcare workers were collected at baseline, two weeks after the first dose and two weeks after the second dose. Anti-S1-protein IgG and IgA total antibodies titres and the presence of neutralizing antibodies against the Receptor Binding Domain in both serum and saliva were measured by quantitative and by competitive ELISA, respectively. FINDINGS Complete vaccination cycle generates a high serum IgG antibody titre as a single dose in previously infected seropositive individuals. Serum IgA concentration reaches a plateau after a single dose in seropositive individuals and two vaccine doses in seronegative subjects. After the second dose IgA level was higher in seronegative than in seropositive subjects. In saliva, IgG level is almost two orders of magnitude lower than in serum, reaching the highest values after the second dose. IgA concentration remains low and increases significantly only in seropositive individuals after the second dose. Neutralizing antibody titres were much higher in serum than in saliva. INTERPRETATION The mRNA BNT162b2 vaccination elicits a strong systemic immune response by drastically boosting neutralizing antibodies development in serum, but not in saliva, indicating that at least oral mucosal immunity is poorly activated by this vaccination protocol, thus failing in limiting virus acquisition upon its entry through this route. FUNDING This work was funded by the Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, and partially supported by Fondazione Umberto Veronesi (COVID-19 Insieme per la ricerca di tutti, 2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Azzi
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
| | - Daniela Dalla Gasperina
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giovanni Veronesi
- Research Centre in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Mariam Shallak
- Laboratory of General Pathology and Immunology "Giovanna Tosi", Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ietto
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Domenico Iovino
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Gianfagna
- Research Centre in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Mediterranea Cardiocentro, Napoli, Italy
| | - Vittorio Maurino
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marco Mario Ferrario
- Research Centre in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulio Carcano
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Tagliabue
- Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Sergio Accolla
- Laboratory of General Pathology and Immunology "Giovanna Tosi", Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Greta Forlani
- Laboratory of General Pathology and Immunology "Giovanna Tosi", Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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25
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Giron MC, Baj A, Giaroni C. Editorial: Neuroendocrine signalling pathways along the microbiota-gut-brain axis in functional gut disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:996382. [PMID: 36213279 PMCID: PMC9533078 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.996382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cecilia Giron
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Pharmacology Building, Padova, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cristina Giaroni,
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26
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Bosi A, Banfi D, Bistoletti M, Moretto P, Moro E, Crema F, Maggi F, Karousou E, Viola M, Passi A, Vigetti D, Giaroni C, Baj A. Hyaluronan: A Neuroimmune Modulator in the Microbiota-Gut Axis. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010126. [PMID: 35011688 PMCID: PMC8750446 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The commensal microbiota plays a fundamental role in maintaining host gut homeostasis by controlling several metabolic, neuronal and immune functions. Conversely, changes in the gut microenvironment may alter the saprophytic microbial community and function, hampering the positive relationship with the host. In this bidirectional interplay between the gut microbiota and the host, hyaluronan (HA), an unbranched glycosaminoglycan component of the extracellular matrix, has a multifaceted role. HA is fundamental for bacterial metabolism and influences bacterial adhesiveness to the mucosal layer and diffusion across the epithelial barrier. In the host, HA may be produced and distributed in different cellular components within the gut microenvironment, playing a role in the modulation of immune and neuronal responses. This review covers the more recent studies highlighting the relevance of HA as a putative modulator of the communication between luminal bacteria and the host gut neuro-immune axis both in health and disease conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and ischemia/reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bosi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Davide Banfi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Michela Bistoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Paola Moretto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Elisabetta Moro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesca Crema
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Evgenia Karousou
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Manuela Viola
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Alberto Passi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Davide Vigetti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
- Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0332-217412; Fax: +39-0332-217111
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (D.B.); (M.B.); (P.M.); (F.M.); (E.K.); (M.V.); (A.P.); (D.V.); (A.B.)
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27
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Novazzi F, Genoni A, Spezia PG, Focosi D, Zago C, Colombo A, Cassani G, Pasciuta R, Tamborini A, Rossi A, Prestia M, Capuano R, Gasperina DD, Dentali F, Severgnini P, Ageno W, Gambarini C, Stefanelli P, Baj A, Maggi F. Introduction of SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern 20h/501Y.V2 (B.1.351) from Malawi to Italy. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:710-712. [PMID: 33739917 PMCID: PMC8043531 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1906757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We report here an imported case of SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern B.1.1.351 (also known as 20H/501Y.V2 or "South African variant" or VOC 202012/02) in a 66-years old symptomatic male who returned from Malawi to Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cristian Zago
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Renee Pasciuta
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Agostino Rossi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniela Dalla Gasperina
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Internal Medicine Unit, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Internal Medicine Unit, ASST Dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Severgnini
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences Department, Varese, Italy
| | - Walter Ageno
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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Novazzi F, Taborelli S, Baj A, Focosi D, Maggi F. Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Breakthrough Infections in Health Care Workers Identified Through Routine Universal Surveillance Testing. Ann Intern Med 2021; 174:1770-1772. [PMID: 34662153 PMCID: PMC8524618 DOI: 10.7326/m21-3486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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29
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Baj A, Novazzi F, Drago Ferrante F, Genoni A, Tettamanzi E, Catanoso G, Dalla Gasperina D, Dentali F, Focosi D, Maggi F. Spike protein evolution in the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant of concern: a case series from Northern Lombardy. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:2010-2015. [PMID: 34651569 PMCID: PMC8567936 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1994356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern (VOC) "Delta" is currently defined by PANGOLIN as a cluster of 33 different AY sublineages. Delta (in particular B.1.617.2) is largely and rapidly replacing the Alpha VOC as the dominant clade in most countries. To date, variations in the Spike protein of the Delta VOC have largely been limited. We report here the results of a genomic surveillance programme from Northern Italy. We identified several Delta sublineages harbouring mutations previously reported in GISAID at extremely low frequencies and in different combinations. Two patients (one of them vaccinated) tested positive for a Delta sublineage harbouring S71F, T250I, T572I and K854N. More patients tested positive for G769 V plus C1248F, A352S, and R158G and C1248F, respectively. Genomic surveillance of Delta variants should be encouraged to anticipate immune escape and deploy countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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30
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Pariani E, Pasciuta R, Novazzi F, Baj A, Galli C, Pellegrinelli L, Bubba L, Cereda D, Puzelli S, Focosi D, Agosti M, Stefanelli P, Maggi F. How multiplex testing approach to respiratory viruses detection can enhance influenza surveillance. Journal of Clinical Virology Plus 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcvp.2021.100050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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31
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Baj A, Zago C, Tamborini A, Colombo A, Cassani G, Rossi A, Pasciuta R, Novazzi F, Prestia M, Capuano R, Genoni A, Azzi L, Dalla Gasperina D, Spezia PG, Focosi D, Maggi F. Performance Assessment of the LIAISON® SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Assay On Nasopharyngeal Swabs. New Microbiol 2021; 44:205-209. [PMID: 34942010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is ongoing worldwide, causing prolonged pressure on molecular diagnostics. Viral antigen (Ag) assays have several advantages, ranging from lower cost to shorter turnaround time to detection. Given the rare occurrence of low-load viremia, antigen assays for SARSCoV-2 have focused on nasopharyngeal swab and saliva as biological matrices, but their effectiveness must be validated. We assayed here the performances of the novel quantitative Liaison® SARSCoV-2 Ag assay on 119 nasopharyngeal swabs and obtained results were compared with Hologic Panther and Abbott m2000 RT-qPCR. The Ag assay demonstrated a good correlation with viral load, shorter turnaround time, and favorable economics. The best performance was obtained in the acute phase of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Cristian Zago
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Agostino Rossi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Renee Pasciuta
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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32
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Baj A, Novazzi F, Pasciuta R, Genoni A, Ferrante FD, Valli M, Partenope M, Tripiciano R, Ciserchia A, Catanoso G, Focosi D, Maggi F. Breakthrough Infections of E484K-Harboring SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant, Lombardy, Italy. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:3180-3182. [PMID: 34499599 PMCID: PMC8632179 DOI: 10.3201/eid2712.211792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The Delta variant of concern of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is dominant worldwide. We report a case cluster caused by Delta sublineage B.1.617.2 harboring the mutation E484K in Italy during July 11–July 29, 2021. This mutation appears to affect immune response and vaccine efficacy; monitoring its appearance is urgent.
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33
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Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than 122 million persons worldwide. Most currently licensed COVID-19 vaccines require a two-dose course and many health systems are on a shortage of doses. The requirement for boosting the response after priming with the first dose is uncertain in convalescents already primed by the natural infection. Mounting evidences suggest that, after a single vaccine dose, convalescents develop antibody (total and neutralizing) levels similar to the ones measured in naïve vaccinees after the full two-dose course. While concerns remain on the equivalent duration of such response, optimizing vaccine delivery to convalescents seems effective and could accelerate achievement of herd immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- Department of Staff, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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34
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Focosi D, Rosellini A, Spezia PG, Macera L, Lanza M, Paolicchi A, Biagini D, Baj A, Pistello M, Maggi F. Lack of neutralizing activity in nonconvalescent sera, regardless of ABO blood group and anti-A isoagglutinin titer. J Clin Virol Plus 2021; 1:100035. [PMID: 35262018 PMCID: PMC8349435 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcvp.2021.100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several ABO blood groups have been associated with the likelihood of infection, severity, and/or outcome of COVID-19 in hospitalized cohorts, raising the hypothesis that anti-A isoagglutinins in non-A-group recipients could act as neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Materials and methods We run live virus neutralization tests using sera from 58 SARS-CoV-2 seronegative blood donors (27 O-group and 31 A-group) negatives for SARS-CoV-2 IgG to investigate what degree of neutralizing activity could be detected in their sera and eventual correlation with anti-A isoagglutinin titers. Results We could not find clinically relevant neutralizing activity in any blood group, regardless of anti-isoagglutinin titer. Discussion Our findings suggest that mechanisms other than neutralization explain the differences in outcomes from COVID19 seen in different ABO blood groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy,Corresponding author
| | | | - Pietro Giorgio Spezia
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lisa Macera
- Division of Virology, Pisa University Hospital, Italy,Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Lanza
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Aldo Paolicchi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy,Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Denise Biagini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy,Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Division of Virology, Pisa University Hospital, Italy,Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy,Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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35
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Novazzi F, Baj A, Genoni A, Spezia PG, Colombo A, Cassani G, Zago C, Pasciuta R, Della Gasperina D, Ageno W, Severgnini P, Dentali F, Focosi D, Maggi F. SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 reinfection after previous COVID-19 in two immunocompetent Italian patients. J Med Virol 2021; 93:5648-5649. [PMID: 33969504 PMCID: PMC8242781 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Pietro G Spezia
- Department of Translational Research, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Cristian Zago
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Renee Pasciuta
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Della Gasperina
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Unit of Internal Medicine, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Walter Ageno
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Department of Emergency, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Severgnini
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences Department, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Unit of Internal Medicine, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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36
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Azzolini C, Donati S, Premi E, Baj A, Siracusa C, Genoni A, Grossi PA, Azzi L, Sessa F, Dentali F, Severgnini P, Minoja G, Cabrini L, Chiaravalli M, Veronesi G, Carcano G, Maffioli LS, Tagliabue A. SARS-CoV-2 on Ocular Surfaces in a Cohort of Patients With COVID-19 From the Lombardy Region, Italy. JAMA Ophthalmol 2021; 139:956-963. [PMID: 33662099 PMCID: PMC7934077 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2020.5464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Importance Since February 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread rapidly all over the world, with an epidemiological cluster in Lombardy, Italy. The viral communicability may be mediated by various body fluids, but insufficient information is available on the presence of the virus in human tears. Objectives To investigate the rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in tears collected from patients with COVID-19 by means of real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) assay and to assess the association of virus presence with concomitant clinical conditions. Design, Setting, and Participants Cross-sectional study conducted between April 9 and May 5, 2020. The setting was intensive care units at Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette-Laghi Hospital, University of Insubria, in Varese, Lombardy, Italy. A conjunctival swab was performed in 91 patients hospitalized for COVID-19, which was clinically diagnosed by rRT-PCR assay on nasopharyngeal swabs and by radiological imaging. Conjunctival swabs from 17 additional healthy volunteer participants with no symptoms of COVID-19 were examined to evaluate the availability and applicability of the conjunctival swab test. Exposure SARS-CoV-2 detection by means of rRT-PCR assay performed on the collected samples obtained by conjunctival swabs. Main Outcomes and Measures Conjunctival swab and nasopharyngeal swab results are reported, as well as demographic and clinical data. Results A total of 108 participants (mean [SD] age, 58.7 [14.2] years; 55 female and 53 male) were tested for SARS-CoV-2 using rRT-PCR assay, including 91 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and 17 were healthy volunteers. SARS-CoV-2 was found on the ocular surface in 52 of 91 patients with COVID-19 (57.1%; 95% CI, 46.3%-67.5%), with a wide variability in the mean viral load from both eyes. Among a subset of 41 patients, concordance of 63.0% (95% CI, 41.0%-81.0%) was found between positive conjunctival and nasopharyngeal swab test results when performed within 2 days of each other. In 17 of these patients, nasopharyngeal swab results were negative for SARS-CoV-2. In 10 of these 17 patients, conjunctival swab results were positive for the virus. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was found on the ocular surface in a large part of this cohort of patients with COVID-19, although the infectivity of this material could not be determined. Because patients may have positive test results with a conjunctival swab and negative results with a nasopharyngeal swab, use of the slightly invasive conjunctival swab may be considered as a supplementary diagnostic test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Azzolini
- Unit of Ophthalmology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Simone Donati
- Unit of Ophthalmology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Elias Premi
- Unit of Ophthalmology, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Claudia Siracusa
- Laboratory of Medicine, Service of Cytogenetics and Medical Genetics, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo A. Grossi
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fausto Sessa
- Unit of Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Unit of High Intensity Medicine, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Severgnini
- Cardiosurgery Intensive Care Unit, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulio Minoja
- Transplants Intensive Care Unit, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Luca Cabrini
- Intensive Care Unit, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Veronesi
- Research Center in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulio Carcano
- Unit of General, Emergency and Transplant Surgery, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Angelo Tagliabue
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Chancellor, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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Castelli M, Baj A, Criscuolo E, Ferrarese R, Diotti RA, Sampaolo M, Novazzi F, Dalla Gasperina D, Focosi D, Ferrari D, Locatelli M, Clementi M, Clementi N, Maggi F, Mancini N. Characterization of a Lineage C.36 SARS-CoV-2 Isolate with Reduced Susceptibility to Neutralization Circulating in Lombardy, Italy. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081514. [PMID: 34452380 PMCID: PMC8402759 DOI: 10.3390/v13081514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 spike is evolving to maximize transmissibility and evade the humoral response. The massive genomic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 isolates has led to the identification of single-point mutations and deletions, often having the recurrence of hotspots, associated with advantageous phenotypes. We report the isolation and molecular characterization of a SARS-CoV-2 strain, belonging to a lineage (C.36) not previously associated with concerning traits, which shows decreased susceptibility to vaccine sera neutralization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Castelli
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (F.N.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Elena Criscuolo
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Roberto Ferrarese
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Roberta A. Diotti
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Michela Sampaolo
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Federica Novazzi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (F.N.)
| | - Daniela Dalla Gasperina
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy;
- Internal Medicine Unit, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Davide Ferrari
- SCVSA Department, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy;
| | - Massimo Locatelli
- Laboratory Medicine Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Massimo Clementi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.B.); (F.N.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.M.); (N.M.)
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (E.C.); (R.F.); (R.A.D.); (M.C.); (N.C.)
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.M.); (N.M.)
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38
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Focosi D, Novazzi F, Genoni A, Dentali F, Gasperina DD, Baj A, Maggi F. Emergence of SARS-COV-2 Spike Protein Escape Mutation Q493R after Treatment for COVID-19. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:2728-2731. [PMID: 34314668 PMCID: PMC8462334 DOI: 10.3201/eid2710.211538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We report in vivo selection of a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike mutation (Q493R) conferring simultaneous resistance to bamlanivimab and etesivimab. This mutation was isolated from a patient who had coronavirus disease and was treated with these drugs.
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39
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Baj A, Novazzi F, Ferrante FD, Genoni A, Cassani G, Prestia M, Colombo A, Capuano R, Zago C, Pasciuta R, Tamborini A, Rossi A, Tettamanzi E, Catanoso G, Focosi D, Maffioli L, Maggi F. Introduction of SARS-COV-2 C.37 (WHO VOI lambda) from Peru to Italy. J Med Virol 2021; 93:6460-6461. [PMID: 34314049 PMCID: PMC8427114 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Christian Zago
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Renee Pasciuta
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Agostino Rossi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniele Focosi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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40
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Ietto G, Mortara L, Dalla Gasperina D, Iovino D, Azzi L, Baj A, Ageno W, Genoni AP, Acquati F, Gallazzi M, Spina G, Coco G, Pierin F, Noonan D, Vigezzi A, Monti E, Iori V, Masci F, Franchi C, Di Saverio S, Carcano G. Study of immune-mediated mechanisms in patients tested positive for SARS-CoV-2: phenotypic and functional analysis of monocytes, NK and T cells in the blood of subjects affected by COVID 19. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 11:e29892. [PMID: 34854818 PMCID: PMC8793914 DOI: 10.2196/29892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The novel coronavirus has a high mortality rate (over 1% for patients older than 50 years). This can only be partially ascribed to other comorbidities. A possible explanation is a factor that assures a prompt response to SARS-CoV-2 in younger people, independent from the novelty of the virus itself. A factor is believed to stimulate the immune system and provide immunity against more antigens. The only external stimulation received by healthy people is vaccination (eg, the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis [DTP] vaccine). One hypothesis is that vaccination helps develop specific immunity but generates sprouting immunity against antigens in transit. The underlying immunological phenomena are the “bystander effect” and “trained immunity.” The developed immunity gives protection for years until it naturally fades out. After the fifth decade of life, the immune system is almost incompetent when a viral infection occurs, and thus, at this stage, the novel coronavirus can enter the body and cause acute respiratory distress syndrome. Objective The initial aim is to demonstrate that blood monocytes and natural killer cells show overpowering hyperactivity, while CD4+ and CD8+ T cells experience impediments to their defensive functions in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. The secondary objectives are to correlate clinical data and vaccination history with laboratory immune patterns in order to identify protective factors. Subsequently, we are also interested in characterizing the phenotypes and state of the degree of activation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, including monocytes, natural killer cells, and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, in healthy subjects vaccinated with the Pfizer vaccine. Methods Data will be collected using the following 3 approaches: (1) an experimental analysis to study the innate immune response and to identify genetic profiles; (2) an epidemiological analysis to identify the patients’ vaccination history; and (3) a clinical analysis to detect the immunological profile. Results The protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee on April 16, 2020, and the study started on April 27, 2020. As of February 2021, enrollment has been completed. Immunological analysis is ongoing, and we expect to complete this analysis by December 2022. Conclusions We will recognize different populations of patients, each one with a specific immunological pattern in terms of cytokines, soluble factor serum levels, and immune cell activity. Anamnestic data, such as preceding vaccinations and comorbidities, biochemical findings like lymphocyte immunophenotyping, and pre-existing persistent cytomegalovirus infection, allow depicting the risk profile of severe COVID-19. Proof of the roles of these immunological phenomena in the development of COVID-19 can be the basis for the implementation of therapeutic immunomodulatory treatments. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04375176; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04375176 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/29892
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Ietto
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | - Lorenzo Mortara
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | | | - Domenico Iovino
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Walter Ageno
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Angelo Paolo Genoni
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Francesco Acquati
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Matteo Gallazzi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Giorgia Spina
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Grace Coco
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Federica Pierin
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT
| | - Douglas Noonan
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, IT.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Multi Medica, Milan, Italy, Milan, IT
| | - Andrea Vigezzi
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | - Elisa Monti
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | - Valentina Iori
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | - Federica Masci
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | - Caterina Franchi
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
| | | | - Giulio Carcano
- General Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, University of Insubria, V. Guicciardini, 9, Varese, IT
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41
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Baj A, Novazzi F, Genoni A, Ferrante FD, Taborelli S, Pini B, Partenope M, Valli M, Gasperina DD, Capuano R, Prestia M, Spezia PG, Azzi L, Focosi D, Maggi F. Symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections after full schedule BNT162b2 vaccination in seropositive healthcare workers: a case series from a single institution. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:1254-1256. [PMID: 34110974 PMCID: PMC8221119 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1942230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We report 11 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers (HCW) naïve for COVID-19 and seropositive after the second dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. Based on voluntary-based surveillance, they tested positive for different strains of SARS-CoV-2, as Spike gene sequencing showed. Five of them reported mild symptoms. Given the risk for SARS-CoV-2 introduction from asymptomatic vaccinees, this case series suggests the need to continue nasopharyngeal screening programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | | | - Beatrice Pini
- Clinical Pathology Unit, St. Anna Hospital, Como, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Martina Prestia
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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42
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Focosi D, Tuccori M, Baj A, Maggi F. SARS-CoV-2 Variants: A Synopsis of In Vitro Efficacy Data of Convalescent Plasma, Currently Marketed Vaccines, and Monoclonal Antibodies. Viruses 2021; 13:1211. [PMID: 34201767 PMCID: PMC8310233 DOI: 10.3390/v13071211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We summarize here in vitro evidences of efficacy for convalescent plasma, currently approved vaccines and monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC: B.1.1.7, B.1.351, P.1, and B.1.617.2), variants of interest (VOI: B.1.427/B.1.429, P.2, B.1.525, P.3, B.1.526, and B.1.671.1), and other strains (B.1.1.298 and B.1.258delta). While waiting from real world clinical efficacy, these data provide guidance for the treating physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Via Paraisa 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Tuccori
- Division of Pharmacovigilance, Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
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43
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Ietto G, Baj A, Parise C, Zani E, Iovino D, Carcano G, Dalla Gasperina D. Blastomycosis of the psoas muscles. IDCases 2021; 24:e01156. [PMID: 34026543 PMCID: PMC8134727 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2021.e01156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Ietto
- Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, ASST-Settelaghi and University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Cristiano Parise
- Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, ASST-Settelaghi and University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Elia Zani
- Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, ASST-Settelaghi and University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Domenico Iovino
- Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, ASST-Settelaghi and University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulio Carcano
- Emergency and Transplant Surgery Department, ASST-Settelaghi and University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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44
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Focosi D, Genoni A, Lucenteforte E, Tillati S, Tamborini A, Spezia PG, Azzi L, Baj A, Maggi F. Previous Humoral Immunity to the Endemic Seasonal Alphacoronaviruses NL63 and 229E Is Associated with Worse Clinical Outcome in COVID-19 and Suggests Original Antigenic Sin. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:298. [PMID: 33915711 PMCID: PMC8067214 DOI: 10.3390/life11040298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS CoV-2) infection has been hypothesized. However, to date, there has been no in vitro or in vivo evidence supporting this. Cross-reactivity exists between SARS CoV-2 and other Coronaviridae for both cellular and humoral immunity. We show here that IgG against nucleocapsid protein of alphacoronavirus NL63 and 229E correlate with the World Health Organization's (WHO) clinical severity score ≥ 5 (incidence rate ratios was 1.87 and 1.80, respectively, and 1.94 for the combination). These laboratory findings suggest possible ADE of SARS CoV-2 infection by previous alphacoronavirus immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.G.); (L.A.); (A.B.); (F.M.)
| | - Ersilia Lucenteforte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (E.L.); (S.T.)
| | - Silvia Tillati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (E.L.); (S.T.)
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.G.); (L.A.); (A.B.); (F.M.)
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.G.); (L.A.); (A.B.); (F.M.)
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (A.G.); (L.A.); (A.B.); (F.M.)
- Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy;
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45
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Azzi L, Focosi D, Dentali F, Baj A, Maggi F. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD IgG responses in convalescent versus naïve BNT162b2 vaccine recipients. Vaccine 2021; 39:2489-2490. [PMID: 33824042 PMCID: PMC8009041 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.03.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Azzi
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniele Focosi
- North-Western Tuscany Blood Bank, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Department of Medicine, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Laboratory of Microbiology, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
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46
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Maggi F, Novazzi F, Genoni A, Baj A, Spezia PG, Focosi D, Zago C, Colombo A, Cassani G, Pasciuta R, Tamborini A, Rossi A, Prestia M, Capuano R, Azzi L, Donadini A, Catanoso G, Grossi PA, Maffioli L, Bonelli G. Imported SARS-CoV-2 Variant P.1 in Traveler Returning from Brazil to Italy. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:1249-1251. [PMID: 33567246 PMCID: PMC8007292 DOI: 10.3201/eid2704.210183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We report an imported case of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant P.1 detected in an asymptomatic traveler who arrived in Italy on an indirect flight from Brazil. This case shows the risk for introduction of SARS-CoV-2 variants from indirect flights and the need for continued SARS-CoV-2 surveillance.
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47
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Banfi D, Moro E, Bosi A, Bistoletti M, Cerantola S, Crema F, Maggi F, Giron MC, Giaroni C, Baj A. Impact of Microbial Metabolites on Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1623. [PMID: 33562721 PMCID: PMC7915037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex bidirectional communication system existing between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain initially termed the "gut-brain axis" and renamed the "microbiota-gut-brain axis", considering the pivotal role of gut microbiota in sustaining local and systemic homeostasis, has a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The integration of signals deriving from the host neuronal, immune, and endocrine systems with signals deriving from the microbiota may influence the development of the local inflammatory injury and impacts also more distal brain regions, underlying the psychophysiological vulnerability of IBD patients. Mood disorders and increased response to stress are frequently associated with IBD and may affect the disease recurrence and severity, thus requiring an appropriate therapeutic approach in addition to conventional anti-inflammatory treatments. This review highlights the more recent evidence suggesting that alterations of the microbiota-gut-brain bidirectional communication axis may concur to IBD pathogenesis and sustain the development of both local and CNS symptoms. The participation of the main microbial-derived metabolites, also defined as "postbiotics", such as bile acids, short-chain fatty acids, and tryptophan metabolites in the development of IBD-associated gut and brain dysfunction will be discussed. The last section covers a critical evaluation of the main clinical evidence pointing to the microbiome-based therapeutic approaches for the treatment of IBD-related gastrointestinal and neuropsychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Banfi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, via H Dunant 5, 21100 Varese, Italy; (D.B.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (F.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Elisabetta Moro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Annalisa Bosi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, via H Dunant 5, 21100 Varese, Italy; (D.B.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (F.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Michela Bistoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, via H Dunant 5, 21100 Varese, Italy; (D.B.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (F.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Silvia Cerantola
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Largo Meneghetti 2, 35131 Padova, Italy; (S.C.); (M.C.G.)
| | - Francesca Crema
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.M.); (F.C.)
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, via H Dunant 5, 21100 Varese, Italy; (D.B.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (F.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Maria Cecilia Giron
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Largo Meneghetti 2, 35131 Padova, Italy; (S.C.); (M.C.G.)
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, via H Dunant 5, 21100 Varese, Italy; (D.B.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (F.M.); (A.B.)
- Centre of Neuroscience, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, via H Dunant 5, 21100 Varese, Italy; (D.B.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (F.M.); (A.B.)
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48
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Abstract
The diagnosis of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection relies on the detection of viral RNA by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) performed with respiratory specimens, especially nasopharyngeal swabs. However, this procedure requires specialized medical personnel, centralized laboratory facilities, and time to provide results (from several hours up to 1 d). In addition, there is a non-negligible risk of viral transmission for the operator who performs the procedure. For these reasons, several studies have suggested the use of other body fluids, including saliva, for the detection of SARS-CoV-2. The use of saliva as a diagnostic specimen has numerous advantages: it is easily self-collected by the patient with almost no discomfort, it does not require specialized health care personnel for its management, and it reduces the risks for the operator. In the past few months, several scientific papers, media, and companies have announced the development of new salivary tests to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection. Posterior oropharyngeal saliva should be distinguished from oral saliva, since the former is a part of respiratory secretions, while the latter is produced by the salivary glands, which are outside the respiratory tract. Saliva can be analyzed through standard (rRT-PCR) or rapid molecular biology tests (direct rRT-PCR without extraction), although, in a hospital setting, these procedures may be performed only in addition to nasopharyngeal swabs to minimize the incidence of false-negative results. Conversely, the promising role of saliva in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection is highlighted by the emergence of point-of-care technologies and, most important, point-of-need devices. Indeed, these devices can be directly used in workplaces, airports, schools, cinemas, and shopping centers. An example is the recently described Rapid Salivary Test, an antigen test based on the lateral flow assay, which detects the presence of the virus by identifying the spike protein in the saliva within a few minutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Azzi
- Unit of Oral Medicine and
Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi–Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi,
Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese,
Italy
| | - V. Maurino
- Unit of Oral Medicine and
Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi–Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi,
Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese,
Italy
| | - A. Baj
- Laboratory of Clinical
Microbiology, ASST dei Sette Laghi–Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi,
Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese,
Italy
| | - M. Dani
- Unit of Oral Medicine and
Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi–Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi,
Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese,
Italy
| | - A. d’Aiuto
- Unit of Oral Medicine and
Pathology, ASST dei Sette Laghi–Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi,
Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese,
Italy
| | - M. Fasano
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and
Functional Proteomics, Department of Science and High Technology, Busto
Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - M. Lualdi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and
Functional Proteomics, Department of Science and High Technology, Busto
Arsizio (VA), Italy
| | - F. Sessa
- Unit of Pathology, ASST dei Sette
Laghi–Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, Department of Medicine and
Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - T. Alberio
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and
Functional Proteomics, Department of Science and High Technology, Busto
Arsizio (VA), Italy
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49
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Baj A, Azzi L, Dalla Gasperina D, Genoni A, Tamborini A, Gambarini C, Carcano G, Grossi P, Sessa F. Pilot Study: Long-Term Shedding of SARS-CoV-2 in Urine: A Threat for Dispersal in Wastewater. Front Public Health 2020; 8:569209. [PMID: 33330316 PMCID: PMC7719751 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.569209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Only 4 months after the beginning of SARS-CoV-2 epidemic, the world is facing a global pandemic due to a complex and insidious virus that today constantly poses new challenges. In this study, we highlight a persistent shedding of SARS-CoV-2 RNA into the urine, even in patients with a negative nasopharyngeal swab and in patients considered recovered. What does it mean? Besides the fact that the kidney is a probable site of viral replication, the prolonged viral excretion is a matter of great concern for our drainage system contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Baj
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Azzi
- Unit of Oral Medicine and Pathology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Dalla Gasperina
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Antonio Tamborini
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Cinzia Gambarini
- S.C. Pneumology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulio Carcano
- Unit of General Emergency and Transplant Surgery, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Grossi
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fausto Sessa
- Pathology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Sette Laghi, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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50
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Bistoletti M, Bosi A, Banfi D, Giaroni C, Baj A. The microbiota-gut-brain axis: Focus on the fundamental communication pathways. Prog Mol Biol Transl Sci 2020; 176:43-110. [PMID: 33814115 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Bistoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Annalisa Bosi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Davide Banfi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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