Sex differences in neuromuscular and biological determinants of isometric maximal force

AIM

Force expression is characterized by an interplay of biological and molecular determinants that are expected to differentiate males and females in terms of maximal performance. These include muscle characteristics (muscle size, fiber type, contractility), neuromuscular regulation (central and peripheral factors of force expression), and individual genetic factors (miRNAs and gene/protein expression). This research aims to comprehensively assess these physiological variables and their role as determinants of maximal force difference between sexes.

METHODS

Experimental evaluations include neuromuscular components of isometric contraction, intrinsic muscle characteristics (proteins and fiber type), and some biomarkers associated with muscle function (circulating miRNAs and gut microbiome) in 12 young and healthy males and 12 females.

RESULTS

Male strength superiority appears to stem primarily from muscle size while muscle fiber-type distribution plays a crucial role in contractile properties. Moderate-to-strong pooled correlations between these muscle parameters were established with specific circulating miRNAs, as well as muscle and plasma proteins.

CONCLUSION

Muscle size is crucial in explaining the differences in maximal voluntary isometric force generation between males and females with similar fiber type distribution. Potential physiological mechanisms are seen from associations between maximal force, skeletal muscle contractile properties, and biological markers.

Randomised controlled trial combining vitamin E-functionalised chocolate with physical exercise to reduce the risk of protein-energy malnutrition in predementia aged people: study protocol for Choko-Age

OBJECTIVE

Protein-energy malnutrition and the subsequent muscle wasting (sarcopenia) are common ageing complications. It is knowing to be also associated with dementia. Our programme will test the cytoprotective functions of vitamin E combined with the cortisol-lowering effect of chocolate polyphenols (PP), in combination with muscle anabolic effect of adequate dietary protein intake and physical exercise to prevent the age-dependent decline of muscle mass and its key underpinning mechanisms including mitochondrial function, and nutrient metabolism in muscle in the elderly.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

In 2020, a 6-month double-blind randomised controlled trial in 75 predementia older people was launched to prevent muscle mass loss, in respond to the 'Joint Programming Initiative A healthy diet for a healthy life'. In the run-in phase, participants will be stabilised on a protein-rich diet (0.9-1.0 g protein/kg ideal body weight/day) and physical exercise programme (high-intensity interval training specifically developed for these subjects). Subsequently, they will be randomised into three groups (1:1:1). The study arms will have a similar isocaloric diet and follow a similar physical exercise programme. Control group (n=25) will maintain the baseline diet; intervention groups will consume either 30 g/day of dark chocolate containing 500 mg total PP (corresponding to 60 mg epicatechin) and 100 mg vitamin E (as RRR-alpha-tocopherol) (n=25); or the high polyphenol chocolate without additional vitamin E (n=25). Muscle mass will be the primary endpoint. Other outcomes are neurocognitive status and previously identified biomolecular indices of frailty in predementia patients. Muscle biopsies will be collected to assess myocyte contraction and mitochondrial metabolism. Blood and plasma samples will be analysed for laboratory endpoints including nutrition metabolism and omics.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

All the ethical and regulatory approvals have been obtained by the ethical committees of the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona with respect to scientific content and compliance with applicable research and human subjects' regulation. Given the broader interest of the society toward undernutrition in the elderly, we identify four main target audiences for our research activity: national and local health systems, both internal and external to the project; targeted population (the elderly); general public; and academia. These activities include scientific workshops, public health awareness campaigns, project dedicated website and publication is scientific peer-review journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05343611.

A Possible Role for Nerve Growth Factor and Its Receptors in Human Sperm Pathology

Nerve growth factor (NGF) signalling affects spermatogenesis and mature sperm traits. In this paper, we aimed to evaluate the distribution and the role of NGF and its receptors (p75NTR and TrKA) on the reproductive apparatus (testis and epididymis) and sperm of fertile men (F) and men with different pathologies, namely varicocele (V) and urogenital infections (UGIs). We collected semen samples from 21 individuals (31-40 years old) subdivided as follows: V (n = 7), UGIs (n = 7), and F (n = 7). We submitted the semen samples to bacteriological analysis, leucocyte identification, and analysis of sperm parameters (concentration, motility, morphology, and viability). We determined the seminal plasma levels of NGF, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), and the gene and protein expression of NGF receptors on sperm. We also used immunofluorescence to examine NGF receptors on ejaculated sperm, testis, and epididymis. As expected, fertile men showed better sperm parameters as well as lower levels of NGF, F2-IsoPs, and IL-1β compared with men with infertility. Notably, in normal sperm, p75NTR and TrKA were localised throughout the entire tail. TrKA was also found in the post-acrosomal sheath. This localisation appeared different in patients with infertility: in particular, there was a strong p75NTR signal in the midpiece and the cytoplasmic residue or coiled tails of altered ejaculated sperm. In line with these findings, NGF receptors were intensely expressed in the epididymis and interstitial tissue of the testis. These data suggest the distinctive involvement of NGF and its receptors in the physiology of sperm from fertile men and men with infertility, indicating a possible role for new targeted treatment strategies.

New Challenges for Anatomists in the Era of Omics

Anatomic studies have traditionally relied on macroscopic, microscopic, and histological techniques to investigate the structure of tissues and organs. Anatomic studies are essential in many fields, including medicine, biology, and veterinary science. Advances in technology, such as imaging techniques and molecular biology, continue to provide new insights into the anatomy of living organisms. Therefore, anatomy remains an active and important area in the scientific field. The consolidation in recent years of some omics technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics allows for a more complete and detailed understanding of the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs. These have been joined more recently by "omics" such as radiomics, pathomics, and connectomics, supported by computer-assisted technologies such as neural networks, 3D bioprinting, and artificial intelligence. All these new tools, although some are still in the early stages of development, have the potential to strongly contribute to the macroscopic and microscopic characterization in medicine. For anatomists, it is time to hitch a ride and get on board omics technologies to sail to new frontiers and to explore novel scenarios in anatomy.

The unknown and misunderstood life of Ruggero Oddi, the pioneer of biliary system physiology

Ruggero Oddi was a talented scientist who initiated the modern era of biliary system physiology, not only with the anatomical discovery of the hepatopancreatic sphincter, but also with the detailed description of its spinal center and nerve regulation. However, his personal and scientific life were determined by an incredible series of unfortunate circumstances. Until now most of these events have been unknown, while the few known have produced biographies distorted by fake interpretations. The purpose of this article is to document Oddi's biography and scientific production in detail, comprehensively framing the scientific environment in which his discoveries occurred. It clears many misinterpretations about events in Oddi's life and academic career, bringing to a new light his figure as scientist in gastroenterological field.

TRANSCRIPTOMICS OF NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC VITAMIN D IN HUMAN HEPATOCYTE LIPOTOXICITY

Vitamin D (VD) has been used to prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition of lipotoxicity associated with a defective metabolism and function of this vitamin. Different forms of VD are available and can be used for this scope, but their effects on liver cell lipotoxicity remain unexplored. In this study we compared a natural formulation rich in VD2 (Shiitake Mushroom extract or SM-VD2) with a synthetic formulation containing pure VD3 (SV-VD3) and the bioactive metabolite 1,25(OH)₂-D3. These were investigated in chemoprevention mode in human HepaRG liver cells supplemented with oleic and palmitic acid to induce lipotoxicity. All the different forms of VD showed similar efficacy in reducing the levels of lipotoxicity and the changes that lipotoxicity induced on the cellular transcriptome. However, the three forms of VD generated different gene fingerprints suggesting diverse, even if functionally convergent, cytoprotective mechanisms. Main differences were 1) the number of differentially expressed genes (SV-VD3 > 1,25(OH)₂-D3 > SM-VD2), 2) their identity that demonstrated significant gene homology between SM-VD2 and 1,25(OH)₂-D3, and 3) the number and type of biological functions identified by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis as relevant to liver metabolism and cytoprotection annotations. Immunoblot confirmed a different response of VDR and other VDR-related proteins to natural and synthetic VD formulations, including FXR, PXR, PPARγ/PGC-1α, and CYP3A4 and CYP24A1. In conclusion, different responses of the cellular transcriptome drive the cytoprotective effect of natural and synthetic formulations of VD in the free fatty acid-induced lipotoxicity of human hepatocytes.

Liposome-based nanoparticles impact on regulatory and effector phenotypes of macrophages and T cells in multiple Sclerosis patients

Current available treatments of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) reduce neuroinflammation acting on different targets on the immune system, but potentially lead to severe side effects and have a limited efficacy in slowing the progression of the disease. Here, we evaluated in vitro the immunomodulatory potential of a new class of nanoparticles - liposomes, constituted by a double-layer of phosphatidylserine (PSCho/PS), and double-faced, with an outer layer of phosphatidylserine and an inner layer of phosphatidic acid (PSCho/PA), either alone or in the presence of the myelin basic protein (MBP) peptide (residues 85-99) (PSCho/PS-MBP and PSCho/PA-MBP). Results showed that PSCho/PS are equally and efficiently internalized by pro- and anti-inflammatory macrophages (M1 and M2 respectively), while PSCho/PA were internalized better by M2 than M1. PSCho/PS liposomes were able to inhibit the secretion of innate pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. PSCho/PS liposomes expanded Tregs, reducing Th1 and Th17 cells, while PSCho/PA liposomes were unable to dampen pro-inflammatory T cells and to promote immune-regulatory phenotype (Treg). The ability of PSCho/PS liposomes to up-regulate Treg cells was more pronounced in MS patients with high basal expression of M2 markers. PSCho/PS liposomes were more effective in decreasing Th1 (but not Th17) cells in MS patients with a disease duration >3 months. On the other hand, down-modulation of Th17 cells was evident in MS patients with active, Gadolinium enhancing lesions at MRI and in MS patients with a high basal expression of M1-associated markers in the monocytes. The same findings were observed for the modulation of MBP-driven Th1/Th17/Treg responses. These observations suggest that early MS associate to a hard-wired pro-Th1 phenotype of M1 that is lost later during disease course. On the other hand, acute inflammatory events reflect a temporary decrease of M2 phenotype that however is amenable to restauration upon treatment with PSCho/PS liposomes. Thus, together these data indicate that monocytes/macrophages may play an important regulatory function during MS course and suggest a role for PSCho/PS and PSCho/PS-MBP as new therapeutic tools to dampen the pro-inflammatory immune responses and to promote its regulatory branch.

In Vitro and Ex Vivo Methodologies for T-Cell Trafficking Through Blood-Brain Barrier After TLR Activation

This chapter describes ex vivo isolation of human T cells and of naïve splenocytes respectively collected from multiple sclerosis patients and healthy controls and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis-affected mice. After the magnetic sorting of naïve and activated T helper lymphocytes, we provide details about the cell cultures to measure the interaction with extracellular matrix proteins using standard cell invasion or hand-made in vitro assays, upon different stimuli, through Toll-like receptor(s) ligands, T-cell activators, and cell adhesion molecules modulators. Finally, we describe the methods to harvest and recover T cells to evaluate the properties associated with their trafficking ability.

Zinc restores functionality in porcine prepubertal Sertoli cells exposed to subtoxic cadmium concentration via regulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway

INTRODUCTION

Among substances released into the environment by anthropogenic activities, the heavy metal cadmium (Cd) is known to induce severe testicular injury causing male subfertility/infertility. Zinc (Zn) is another heavy metal that, unlike Cd, is physiologically present in the testis, being essential for spermatogenesis. We aimed to examine the possibility that 50 µM ZnCl₂ could counteract the toxic effects induced by Cd in an in vitro model of porcine prepubertal Sertoli cells (SCs) exposed to both subtoxic (5 μM) and toxic (10 μM) concentrations of CdCl₂ for 48 h.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Apoptosis, cell cycle, and cell functionality were assessed. The gene expression of Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant enzymes, ERK1/2, and AKT kinase signaling pathways were evaluated.

MATERIALS AND RESULTS

We found that Zn, in co-treatment with subtoxic and toxic Cd concentration, increased the number of metabolically active SCs compared to Cd exposure alone but restored SC functionality only in co-treatment with subtoxic Cd concentration with respect to subtoxic Cd alone. Exposure of Cd disrupted cell cycle in SCs, and Zn co-treatment was not able to counteract this effect. Cd alone induced SC death through apoptosis and necrosis in a dose-dependent manner, and co-treatment with Zn increased the pro-apoptotic effect of Cd. Subtoxic and toxic Cd exposures activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway by increasing gene expression of Nrf2 and its downstream genes (SOD, HO-1, and GSHPx). Zn co-treatment with subtoxic Cd attenuated upregulation on the Nrf2 system, while with toxic Cd, the effect was more erratic. Studying ERK1/2 and AKT pathways as a target, we found that the phosphorylation ratio of p-ERK1/2 and p-AKT was upregulated by both subtoxic and toxic Cd exposure alone and in co-treatment with Zn.

DISCUSSION

Our results suggest that Zn could counteract Cd effects by increasing the number of metabolically active SCs, fully or partially restoring their functionality by modulating Nrf2, ERK1/2, and AKT pathways. Our SC model could be useful to study the effects of early Cd exposure on immature testis, evaluating the possible protective effects of Zn.

Wheat germ oil vitamin E cytoprotective effect and its nutrigenomics signature in human hepatocyte lipotoxicity

Wheat germ oil (WGO) is rich in α-tocopherol (vitamin E, VE), a vitamin that has long been suggested to exert hepatoprotective effects. In this study, this function of WGO-VE and its transcriptomics fingerprint were investigated in comparison with RRR-α-tocopherol and all-rac-α-tocopherol (nVE and sVE, respectively), in human liver cells treated with oleic acid (OA) to develop steatosis and lipotoxicity. Used in chemoprevention mode, all the VE formulations afforded significant reduction of the OA-induced steatosis and its consequent impact on lipotoxicity indicators, including ROS production and efflux (as H₂O₂), and apoptotic and necrotic cell death. A trend toward a better control of lipotoxicity was observed for WGO-VE and nVE compared to sVE. Gene microarray data demonstrated that these effects of VE formulations were associated with significantly different responses of the cellular transcriptome to compensate for the modifications of OA treatment, including the downregulation of cellular homeostasis genes and the induction of genes associated with defects of liver cell metabolism, fibrosis and inflammation, liver disease and cancer. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis data showed that WGO-VE modulated genes associated with liver carcinogenesis and steatosis, whereas nVE modulated genes involved in liver cell metabolism and viability biofunctions; sVE did not significantly modulate any gene dataset relevant to such biofunctions. In conclusion, WGO-VE prevents lipotoxicity in human liver cells modulating genes that differ from those affected by the natural or synthetic forms of pure VE. These differences can be captured by precision nutrition tools, reflecting the molecular complexity of this VE-rich extract and its potential in preventing specific cues of hepatocellular lipotoxicity.

Short-Term Effects of Side-Stream Smoke on Nerve Growth Factor and Its Receptors TrKA and p75NTR in a Group of Non-Smokers

Environmental tobacco smoke remains a major risk factor, for both smokers and non-smokers, able to trigger the initiation and/or the progression of several human diseases. Although in recent times governments have acted with the aim of banning or strongly reducing its impact within public places and common spaces, environmental tobacco smoke remains a major pollutant in private places, such as the home environment or cars. Several inflammatory and long-term biomarkers have been analysed and well-described, but the list of mediators modulated during the early phases of inhalation of environmental tobacco smoke needs to be expanded. The aim of this study was to measure the short-term effects after exposure to side-stream smoke on Nerve Growth Factor and its receptors Tropomyosin-related kinase A and neurotrophin p75, molecules already described in health conditions and respiratory diseases. Twenty-one non-smokers were exposed to a home-standardized level of SS as well as to control smoke-free air. Nerve Growth Factor and inflammatory cytokines levels, as well the expression of Tropomyosin-related kinase A and neurotrophin receptor p75, were analysed in white blood cells. The present study demonstrates that during early phases, side-stream smoke exposure induced increases in the percentage of neurotrophin receptor p75-positive white blood cells, in their mean fluorescent intensity, and in gene expression. In addition, we found a positive correlation between the urine cotinine level and the percentage of neurotrophin receptor-positive white blood cells. For the first time, the evidence that short-term exposure to side-stream smoke is able to increase neurotrophin receptor p75 expression confirms the very early involvement of this receptor, not only among active smokers but also among non-smokers exposed to SS. Furthermore, the correlation between cotinine levels in urine and the increase in neurotrophin receptor p75-positive white blood cells could represent a potential novel molecule to be investigated for the detection of SS exposure at early time points.

Melatonin modulates Nrf2 activity to protect porcine pre-pubertal Sertoli cells from the abnormal H2 O2 generation and reductive stress effects of cadmium

Melatonin (MLT) is a cytoprotective agent holding potential to prevent cadmium (Cd) toxicity and its impact in testicular function and fertility. In this study, we explored such potential in porcine pre-pubertal Sertoli cells (SCs). Cd toxicity resulted in impaired SC viability and function, abnormal cellular H₂ O₂ generation and efflux, and induction of reductive stress by the upregulation of Nrf2 expression and activity, cystine uptake and glutathione biosynthesis, glutathione-S-transferase P (GSTP) expression, and protein glutathionylation inhibition. Cd toxicity also stimulated the activity of cellular kinases (MAPK-ERK1/2 and Akt) and NFkB transcription factor, and cJun expression was increased. MLT produced a potent cytoprotective effect when co-administered with Cd to SCs; its efficacy and the molecular mechanism behind its cytoprotective function varied according to Cd concentrations. However, a significant restoration of cell viability and function, and of H₂ O₂ levels, was observed both at 5 and 10 μM Cd. Mechanistically, these effects of MLT were associated with a significant reduction of the Cd-induced activation of Nrf2 and GSTP expression at all Cd concentrations. CAT and MAPK-ERK1/2 activity upregulation was associated with these effects at 5 μM Cd, whereas glutathione biosynthesis and efflux were involved at 10 μM Cd together with an increased expression of the cystine transporter xCT, of cJun and Akt and NFkB activity. MLT protects SCs from Cd toxicity reducing its H₂ O₂ generation and reductive stress effects. A reduced activity of Nrf2 and the modulation of other molecular players of MLT signaling, provide a mechanistic rational for the cytoprotective effect of this molecule in SCs.

Effect of a UV-C Automatic Last-Generation Mobile Robotic System on Multi-Drug Resistant Pathogens

Background: Healthcare-associated infections caused by multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens are associated with increased mortality and morbidity among hospitalized patients. Inanimate surfaces, and in particular high-touch surfaces, have often been described as the source for outbreaks of nosocomial infections. The present work aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a last-generation mobile (robotic) irradiation UV-C light device R2S on MDR microorganisms in inanimate surfaces and its translation to hospital disinfection. Methods: The efficacy of R2S system was evaluated in environmental high-touch surfaces of two separate outpatient rooms of Perugia Hospital in Italy. The static UV-C irradiation effect was investigated on both the bacterial growth of S. aureus, MRSA, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae KPC and photoreactivation. The antimicrobial activity was also tested on different surfaces, including glass, steel, and plastic. Results: In the environmental tests, the R2S system decreased the number of bacteria, molds, and yeasts of each high-touch spot surface (HTSs) compared with manual sanitization. UV-C light irradiation significantly inhibits in vitro bacterial growth, also preventing photoreactivation. UV-C light bactericidal activity on MDR microorganisms is affected by the type of materials of inanimate surfaces. Conclusions: The last-generation mobile R2S system is a more reliable sanitizing procedure compared with its manual counterpart.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress and NF-kB activation in SARS-CoV-2 infected cells and their response to antiviral therapy

Unfolded protein response (UPR) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress are aspects of SARS-CoV-2-host cell interaction with proposed role in the cytopathic and inflammatory pathogenesis of this viral infection. The role of the NF-kB pathway in these cellular processes remains poorly characterized. When investigated in VERO-E6 cells, SARS-CoV-2 infection was found to markedly stimulate NF-kB protein expression and activity. NF-kB activation occurs early in the infection process (6 hpi) and it is associated with increased MAPK signaling and expression of the UPR inducer IRE-1α. These signal transduction processes characterize the cellular stress response to the virus promoting a pro-inflammatory environment and caspase activation in the host cell. Inhibition of viral replication by the viral protease inhibitor Nelfinavir reverts all these molecular changes also stimulating c-Jun expression, a key component of the JNK/AP-1 pathway with important role in the IRE-1α-mediated transcriptional regulation of stress response genes with anti-inflammatory and cytoprotection function. The present study demonstrates that UPR signaling and its interaction with cellular MAPKs and the NF-kB activity are important aspects of SARS-CoV-2-host cell interaction that deserve further investigation to identify more efficient therapies for this viral infection.

SARS-CoV-2 Survival on Surfaces and the Effect of UV-C Light

The aim of this study was to establish the persistence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on inanimate surfaces such as plastic, stainless steel, and glass during UV-C irradiation which is a physical means commonly utilized in sanitization procedures. The viral inactivation rate, virus half-life, and percentage of titer reduction after UV-C irradiation were assessed. Infectivity was maintained on plastic and glass until 120 h and on stainless steel until 72 h. The virus half-life was 5.3, 4.4, and 4.2 h on plastic, stainless steel, and glass, respectively. In all cases, titer decay was >99% after drop drying. UV-C irradiation efficiently reduced virus titer (99.99%), with doses ranging from 10.25 to 23.71 mJ/cm². Plastic and stainless steel needed higher doses to achieve target reduction. The total inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 on glass was obtained with the lower dose applied. SARS-CoV-2 survival can be long lasting on inanimate surfaces. It is worth recommending efficient disinfection protocols as a measure of prevention of viral spread. UV-C can provide rapid, efficient and sustainable sanitization procedures of different materials and surfaces. The dosages and mode of irradiation are important parameters to consider in their implementation as an important means to fight the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Alpha-Tocopherol Metabolites (the Vitamin E Metabolome) and Their Interindividual Variability during Supplementation

The metabolism of α-tocopherol (α-TOH, vitamin E) shows marked interindividual variability, which may influence the response to nutritional and therapeutic interventions with this vitamin. Recently, new metabolomics protocols have fostered the possibility to explore such variability for the different metabolites of α-TOH so far identified in human blood, i.e., the “vitamin E metabolome”, some of which have been reported to promote important biological functions. Such advances prompt the definition of reference values and degree of interindividual variability for these metabolites at different levels of α-TOH intake. To this end, a one-week oral administration protocol with 800 U RRR-α-TOH/day was performed in 17 healthy volunteers, and α-TOH metabolites were measured in plasma before and at the end of the intervention utilizing a recently validated LC-MS/MS procedure; the expression of two target genes of α-TOH with possible a role in the metabolism and function of this vitamin, namely pregnane X receptor (PXR) and the isoform 4F2 of cytochrome P450 (CYP4F2) was assessed by immunoblot in peripheral blood leukocytes. The levels of enzymatic metabolites showed marked interindividual variability that characteristically increased upon supplementation. With the exception of α-CEHC (carboxy-ethyl-hydroxychroman) and the long-chain metabolites M1 and α-13′OH, such variability was found to interfere with the possibility to utilize them as sensitive indicators of α-TOH intake. On the contrary, the free radical-derived metabolite α-tocopheryl quinone significantly correlated with the post-supplementation levels of α-TOH. The supplementation stimulated PXR, but not CYP4F2, expression of leucocytes, and significant correlations were observed between the baseline levels of α-TOH and both the baseline and post-supplementation levels of PXR. These findings provide original analytical and molecular information regarding the human metabolism of α-TOH and its intrinsic variability, which is worth considering in future nutrigenomics and interventions studies.

Nerve growth factor receptor role on rabbit sperm storage

The influence of NGF in male reproduction in some animal species and humans has already been assessed. Many of these effects are mediated by the distribution and abundance of tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrKA) and p75 neurotrophin (p75NTR) receptors on sperm cells. The aim of this research was to investigate the role of NGF and its receptors, TrKA and p75NTR, in rabbit sperm outcomes during in vitro storage. Major semen traits (kinetic parameters, apoptotic, necrotic and live sperm) were recorded in rabbit semen samples from 0 to 12 h of storage (every 4 h). Three experimental hypotheses were formulated: i) sperm storage changes NGF receptor abundance in rabbit sperm; ii) TrKA and p75NTR differently modulate NGF signalling (assessed by the neutralisation of receptors); iii) NGF-receptor interactions show different responses during storage (evaluated by the addition of exogenous NGF). The results demonstrate that: (i) the receptor number changed in a time-dependent manner with a significant increase in p75NTR after 8-12 h of storage; ii) the neutralisation of NGF receptors largely affected VCL, apoptotic, necrotic and live cells during sperm storage, i.e. blockade of TrKA significantly increased speed, capacitation, necrosis and apoptosis, whereas blockade of p75NTR improved motility and live cells; iii) the addition of exogenous human NGF (100 ng/mL) at different time points of storage (0, 4, 8 h) differently influenced sperm traits i.e. NGF addition at time 0 positively affected all the pro-vital traits (kinetic, live cells) whereas, after 4-8 h, the effect of NGF was null or negative. In conclusion, NGF affects kinetic and other physiological traits (capacitation, apoptosis and necrosis) of rabbit sperm in a time-dependent manner. Most of these modifications are modulated by the receptors involved (TrKA or p75NTR), which changed considerably during sperm storage (increase of p75NTR).

Effects of nicotine on porcine pre-pupertal sertoli cells: An in vitro study

Smoke components, such as nicotine and its major metabolites, cross the blood-testis barrier and are detectable in the seminal plasma of both active smokers and individuals exposed to cigarette smoke. In vivo studies in a rat model have further demonstrated that nicotine exposure reduces the weight of the testis, as well as the number of spermatocytes and spermatids, and affects the ultrastructure of Sertoli cells (SC) - which serve as sentinels of spermatogenesis - causing intense germ cell sloughing in the tubular lumen that compromises offspring fertility. This study sought to determine the effects of nicotine on the viability and function of purified pig pre-pubertal SC. Nicotine exposure reduced the mRNA expression and protein levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin B and impaired FSH-r sensitivity via the downregulation of FSH-r and aromatase gene expression compared to untreated SC. Overall, our study suggests that nicotine can significantly alter extracellular matrix and tight junction protein gene expression (e.g., laminin, integrin, and occludin), thus compromising cross-talk between the interstitial and tubular compartments and enhancing blood-testis barrier (BTB) permeability via downregulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. These findings further elucidate a potential mechanism of action underlying nicotine exposure's detrimental effects on SC function in vivo.

In vitro effect of nerve growth factor on the main traits of rabbit sperm

BACKGROUND

The nerve growth factor (NGF), a member of the neurotrophins family, plays an important role not only in the nervous but also in other non-nervous systems such as the reproductive system. The aim of the paper is to study the in vitro effect of NGF on rabbit sperm functions.

METHODS

Ten adult rabbit bucks were collected five times, and pooled semen samples have been analysed. NGF was quantified in seminal plasma, and the distribution of NGF receptors (TrKA and p75NTR) in sperm was established. Moreover, the dose-effect of NGF on motility rate and track speed was evaluated. Successively, the effect of the neutralisation of NGF receptors was assessed to verify the specific role of each receptor. Untreated sperm were used as control.

RESULTS

Our study identified several interesting results: i) We detected NGF in seminal plasma and TrKA and p75NTR in sperm surface. In particular, TrKA is localised in the head and p75NTR in the midpiece and tail of rabbit sperm. ii) Once the optimal dose of NGF (100 ng/mL) was established, its addition affected both kinetics and other physiological traits (capacitation, apoptosis and necrosis) of rabbit sperm. (iii) The neutralisation of TrKA and p75NTR receptors affected sperm traits differently. In particular, sperm speed, apoptosis and capacitation seemed mainly modulated via p75NTR receptor, whereas motile, live cells, necrosis and acrosome reaction were modulated via TrKA.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, we showed the presence of p75NTR in rabbit sperm. NGF affects kinetic and other physiological traits of rabbit sperm. Most of these changes are modulated by the receptors involved (TrKA or p75NTR). Considering that some seminal disorders in human have been correlated with a lower NGF concentration and no studies have been done on the possible involvement of NGF receptors, these findings also provide new insights on human fertility.

Non-Aβ-Dependent Factors Associated with Global Cognitive and Physical Function in Alzheimer's Disease: A Pilot Multivariate Analysis

Recent literature highlights the importance of identifying factors associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Actual validated biomarkers include neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid assessments; however, we investigated non-Aβ-dependent factors associated with dementia in 12 MCI and 30 AD patients. Patients were assessed for global cognitive function (Mini-Mental state examination—MMSE), physical function (Physical Performance Test—PPT), exercise capacity (6-min walking test—6MWT), maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), brain volume, vascular function (flow-mediated dilation—FMD), inflammatory status (tumor necrosis factor—α ,TNF- α, interleukin-6, -10 and -15) and neurotrophin receptors (p75NTR and Tropomyosin receptor kinase A -TrkA). Baseline multifactorial information was submitted to two separate backward stepwise regression analyses to identify the variables associated with cognitive and physical decline in demented patients. A multivariate regression was then applied to verify the stepwise regression. The results indicated that the combination of 6MWT and VO₂max was associated with both global cognitive and physical function (MMSE = 11.384 + (0.00599 × 6MWT) − (0.235 × VO₂max)); (PPT = 1.848 + (0.0264 × 6MWT) + (19.693 × VO₂max)). These results may offer important information that might help to identify specific targets for therapeutic strategies (NIH Clinical trial identification number NCT03034746).

Changes in Plasma β-NGF and Its Receptors Expression on Peripheral Blood Monocytes During Alzheimer's Disease Progression

Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia, is characterized by the deposition of extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, and by neuroinflammation. During the pathogenesis of AD, monocyte-macrophage lineage cells become increasingly ineffective in clearing Aβ deposits, less able to differentiate, and shift toward pro-inflammatory processes. Beta-nerve growth factor (β-NGF) and its receptors, TrKA and p75NTR, produce several biological responses, including cell apoptosis and survival, and inflammation. In the central nervous system, the involvement of these receptors in several critical hallmarks of AD is well known, but their role in circulating monocytes during the progression of dementia is unclear. We investigated the relationship between plasma β-NGF concentration and TrkA/p75NTR receptor expression in monocytes of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), mild AD, and severe AD. We observed that plasma β-NGF concentration was increased with a higher expression of TrKA, but not of p75NTR, in monocytes from patients with MCI and mild AD, whereas β-NGF concentration and TrKA expression were decreased and p75NTR expression was increased, associated with caspase 3-mediated apoptosis, in patients with severe AD. In our study, we show evidence of variation in plasmatic β-NGF and monocytic TrkA/p75NTR receptor expression during the progression of dementia. These novel findings add evidence to support the hypothesis for the involvement of β-NGF and its receptors on monocytes during AD progression.

β-NGF and β-NGF receptor upregulation in blood and synovial fluid in osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is the most common form of non-traumatic joint disease. Previous studies have shown the involvement of β-NGF and its receptors TrKA and p75NTR in OA-related pain, but their role in its pathogenesis is still unclear. The aim of our study was to investigate the amount of β-NGF and the expression levels of its receptors on cells isolated from synovial fluid and blood from OA patients who had undergone total knee arthroplasty, in order to check any possible correlation with the disease staging. Our results show a progressive stage-related increase of β-NGF and its receptors both in serum and synovial fluid. Furthermore, with respect to control subjects, OA patients show an increased amount of inflammatory monocytes along with an increased expression of β-NGF, TrKA and p75NTR. In conclusion, our study suggests a stage-related modulation of β-NGF and its receptors in the inflammatory process of OA.

Differential Role of Neurohypophysial Hormones in Hypotension and Nitric Oxide Production During Endotoxaemia

Besides their well-established endocrine roles, vasopressin and oxytocin are also important regulators of immune function, participating in a complex neuroendocrine-immune network. In the present study, we investigated whether and how vasopressin and oxytocin could modulate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in a well-established model of experimental endotoxaemia. Male Wistar rats were previously treated i.v. with vasopressin V1 or oxytocin receptor antagonists and then received either an i.v. LPS injection to induce endotoxaemia or a saline imjection as a control. The animals were divided into two groups: in the first group, blood was collected at 2, 4 and 6 h after LPS injection; in the second group, mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded over 6 h. Plasma vasopressin and oxytocin values were higher in LPS- compared to saline-injected animals at 2 and 4 h but returned to basal levels at 6 h. NO levels exhibited an opposite pattern, showing a progressive increase over the entire period. The previous administration of a vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist significantly reduced NO plasma concentrations at 2 and 4 h but not at 6 h. By contrast, oxytocin receptor agonist pre-treatment had no effect on the NO plasma concentration. In relation to MABP, previous treatment with vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist reversed the LPS-induced hypotension at 4 h, although this was not the case for oxytocin antagonist-treated animals. None of the antagonists affected HR. Our findings indicate that vasopressin (but not oxytocin) has effects on NO production during endotoxaemia in rats, although they do not lend support to the proposed anti-inflammatory actions of vasopressin during endotoxaemia.

LY294002 induces in vitro apoptosis and overexpression of p75NTR in human uterine leiomyosarcoma HTB 114 cells

Uterine leiomyosarcoma is a severe neoplasia resistant to conventional therapies. In previous studies, we have shown that human SK-UT-1 (ATCC HTB114) uterine leiomyosarcoma cell line secretes nerve growth factor (NGF) and expresses its receptors tyrosine kinase A receptor (TrKA) and low affinity nerve growth factor receptor (p75NTR). Furthermore, we have demonstrated that direct chemical inhibition or IgG neutralization of TrKA receptor induce apoptosis through p75NTR. In the present study, HTB114 cells were exposed to the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002 with and without β-NGF: apoptosis, cell cycle, activation of caspase-3 and protein kinase B (AKT) and TrKA/p75NTR phenotypic expression were evaluated. According to the type of exposure, LY294002 not only induced a relevant increase in apoptosis, but also produced a novel and unexpected phenotypic modulation of the NGF receptors with a downregulation of TrKA and an upregulation of p75NTR. This latter increase enhanced HTB114 apoptosis. Our study confirms that the interference on NGF transduction is a promising therapeutical approach in uterine leiomyosarcoma.

Moxonidine improves cardiac structure and performance in SHR through inhibition of cytokines, p38 MAPK and Akt

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Regression of left ventricular hypertrophy by moxonidine, a centrally acting sympatholytic imidazoline compound, results from a sustained reduction of DNA synthesis and transient stimulation of DNA fragmentation. Because apoptosis of cardiomyocytes may lead to contractile dysfunction, we investigated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), time- and dose-dependent effects of in vivo moxonidine treatment on cardiac structure and function as well as on the inflammatory process and signalling proteins involved in cardiac cell survival/death.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

12 week old SHR received moxonidine at 0, 100 and 400 µg·kg(-1)·h(-1) , s.c., for 1 and 4 weeks. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography; plasma cytokines were measured by elisa and hearts were collected for histological assessment of fibrosis and measurement of cardiac proteins by Western blotting. Direct effects of moxonidine on cardiac cell death and underlying mechanisms were investigated in vitro by flow cytometry and Western blotting.

KEY RESULTS

After 4 weeks, the sub-hypotensive dose of moxonidine (100 µg) reduced heart rate and improved global cardiac performance, reduced collagen deposition, regressed left ventricular hypertrophy, inhibited Akt and p38 MAPK phosphorylation, and attenuated circulating and cardiac cytokines. The 400 µg dose resulted in similar effects but of a greater magnitude, associated with blood pressure reduction. In vitro, moxonidine inhibited norepinephrine-induced neonatal cardiomyocyte mortality but increased fibroblast mortality, through I(1)-receptor activation and differential effects on downstream Akt and p38 MAPK.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

While the antihypertensive action of centrally acting imidazoline compounds is appreciated, new cardiac-selective I(1)-receptor agonists may confer additional benefit.

Role of dexamethasone on vasopressin release during endotoxemic shock

The present study was designed to assess the hypothesis that dexamethasone (DEX) through the control of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis could regulate the release of vasopressin (AVP), which plays an important role in the regulation of arterial pressure and plasma osmolality. Endotoxemic shock was induced by intravenous (i.v.) injection of 1.5 mg/kg lipopolisaccharide (LPS) in male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g. After LPS administration, a group of animals were treated with DEX (1.0 mg/kg of body weight), whereas saline-injected rats served as controls. The LPS administration induced a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) with a concomitant increase in heart rate (HR) (Delta VMAP: -16.1+/-4.2 mm Hg; Delta VHR: 47.3+/-8.1 bpm). An increase in plasma AVP concentration occurred and was present for 2 h after LPS administration (11.1+/-0.9 pg/mL) returning close to basal levels thereafter and remaining unchanged until the end of the experiment. When LPS was combined with i.v. administration of a low dose of DEX, we observed an attenuation in the drop of MAP (Delta VMAP: -2.2+/-1.9 mm Hg) and a decrease in NO plasma concentration [NO] after LPS administration (1098.1+/-68.1 microM) compared to [NO] after DEX administration (523.4+/-75.2 microM). However, this attenuation in the drop of MAP was accompanied by a decrease in AVP plasma concentration (3.7+/-0.4 pg/mL). These data suggest that AVP does not participate in the recovery of MAP when DEX is administered in this endotoxemic shock model.

[Identification of candidate genes and expression profiles, as doping biomarkers]

Administration of prohibited substances to enhance athletic performance represents an emerging medical, social, ethical and legal issue. Traditional controls are based on direct detection of substances or their catabolites. However out-of-competition doping may not be easily revealed by standard analytical methods. Alternative indirect control strategies are based on the evaluation of mid- and long-term effects of doping in tissues. Drug-induced long-lasting changes of gene expression may be taken as effective indicators of doping exposure. To validate this approach, we used real-time PCR to monitor the expression pattern of selected genes in human haematopoietic cells exposed to nandrolone, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) or growth hormone (GH). Some candidate genes were found significantly and consistently modulated by treatments. Nandrolone up-regulated AR, ESR2 and PGR in K562 cells, and SRD5A1, PPARA and JAK2 in Jurkat cells; IGF-I up-regulated EPOR and PGR in HL60 cells, and SRD5A1 in Jurkat; GH up-regulated SRD5A1 and GHR in K562. GATA1 expression was down-regulated in IGF-1-treated HL60, ESR2 was down-regulated in nandrolone-treated Jurkat, and AR and PGR were down-regulated in GH-treated Jurkat. This pilot study shows the potential of molecular biology-based strategies in anti-doping controls.

Role of nerve growth factor and its receptors in non-nervous cancer growth: efficacy of a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (AG879) and neutralizing antibodies antityrosine kinase receptor A and antinerve growth factor: an in-vitro and in-vivo study

Neurotrophins, originally identified as neuronal survival and differentiation factors, exert their actions through tyrosine kinase receptors such as TrKA, in the case of the nerve growth factor. Neurotrophins also interact with p75, a common receptor devoid of kinase activity and connected to apoptosis. Here we show that nerve growth factor, TrKA and p75 are expressed in cell lines of human cancers of various non-neuronal lineages, including a panel of muscular sarcomas, and we show that all cell lines investigated actively release nerve growth factor into the medium. Treatment by AG879 (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that inhibits TrKA phosphorylation, but not TrKB and TrKC) or by neutralizing antibodies anti-nerve growth factor and anti-TrKA dramatically decreases their proliferation with a variable increase in apoptosis. Similarly, p75 transfection induced a significant increase in apoptosis. Furthermore, for the first time we have determined by high-performance liquid chromatography the pharmacokinetic profile of a novel preparation of AG879 and we have established an optimal plasmatic concentration for in-vivo administration. Treatment with AG879 in immunodepressed mice grafted with leiomyosarcoma or promyelocytic leukemia cells resulted in dramatic reductions in tumor sizes. In conclusion, our data have a novel preclinical potential for revealing a possible therapeutical utility in targeting in-vivo nerve growth factor/TrKA by AG879 or neutralizing antibody anti-TrKA in cancer proliferation and in muscle sarcomas, in particular.

The effect of α- and γ-tocopherol and their carboxyethyl hydroxychroman metabolites on prostate cancer cell proliferation

It is known that gamma-tocopherol inhibits human prostate cancer cell proliferation via down-regulation of cyclin-related signalling but tocopherol and tocotrienol metabolites with a shortened phytyl chain, carboxyethyl hydroxychromans, were not previously investigated as anti-proliferative agents. In this study, the effect of the two main tocopherols, namely, alpha-tocopherol and gamma-tocopherol, and their corresponding metabolites (alpha- and gamma-carboxyethyl hydroxychromans) was studied on proliferation and cyclin D1 expression of the prostate cancer cell line PC-3. The hydrosoluble vitamin E analogues Trolox and alpha-tocopherol succinate were also tested. The most effective inhibitors of PC-3 proliferation were gamma-tocopherol and gamma-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman. Their effect was discernable at 1 microM and reached a plateau at concentrations > or = 10 microM with maximal inhibition values ranging between 70 and 82%. alpha-Tocopherol, alpha-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman, and the analogue Trolox were much less effective; a weak effect was observed for concentrations < or = 10 microM and a maximal inhibition of less than 45% was found at 50 microM concentration. PC-3 cells showed higher inhibition, particularly by the gamma derivatives, than HTB-82 and HECV cells. Tocopherols and carboxyethyl hydroxychromans exerted an inhibitory effect on cyclin D1 expression parallel to the retardation of cell growth. gamma-Carboxyethyl hydroxychroman and gamma-tocopherol showed effects also upstream of the cyclin modulation. Furthermore, the inhibition of cyclin D1 expression by gamma-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman was competed for by alpha-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman. In conclusion, this study shows that carboxyethyl hydroxychroman metabolites are as effective as their vitamin precursors to inhibit PC-3 growth by specific down-regulation of cyclin expression, with the gamma forms being the most effective ones. Although the inhibition of PC-3 cell growth and diminution of cyclin expression are clearly visible, more subtle mechanistic effects of tocopherols and their corresponding carboxyethyl hydroxychroman metabolites deserve further investigations.

Systemic thrombin generation in cancer patients is correlated with extrinsic pathway activation

Since the first report by Trousseau in 1865, several experimental and clinical studies have established that activation of coagulation is common in cancer. However, the biochemical basis of the activation of coagulation in cancer patients is still not completely understood. The current most accepted opinion is that initiation of coagulation in malignancy is driven primarily by activation of the extrinsic (tissue factor-dependent) pathway. In order to further prove that such a pathogenetic mechanism is actually involved in cancer patients, we correlated the plasma levels of activated factor VIIa (FVIIa), which represent a very small fraction of plasma FVII, with some well-established markers of systemic thrombin generation. Circulating FVIIa was measured using a prothrombin time-based assay that employs a truncated form of human recombinant tissue factor, while plasma levels of the thrombin-antithrombin complex, the prothrombin fragments 1 + 2 and D-dimer were determined by commercially available ELISA kits. The study was carried out in 37 patients with different types of cancer and 20 healthy controls. Plasma levels of FVIIa were significantly increased while those of FVII antigen (FVIIag) were decreased in cancer patients compared with controls. Furthermore, the FVIIa/ VIIag ratio was more than two-fold higher in cancer patients than in controls. In addition, an excess of thrombin generation was observed in cancer patients. Interestingly, a positive correlation between the FVIIa/VIIag ratio and the plasma levels of either D-dimer (Spearman's r = 0.325; P = 0.027) or prothrombin fragments 1 + 2 (r = 0.309; P = 0.034) was observed in cancer patients. In conclusion, our study further supports the hypothesis that the tissue factor/VIIa complex is the main determinant of coagulation activation in cancer patients. Large clinical studies will be necessary to determine whether FVIIa and the FVIIa/VIIag ratio are useful prognostic factors of thromboembolic events in cancer patients.

Interleukin 2 proliferative response by cord blood mononuclear cells of term and preterm neonates

The results of previous studies on the proliferative response of resting cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) of term neonates to human recombinant interleukin 2 (hrIL-2) are contrasting. Some authors have reported a good and others a poor response. In our study we have obtained a significant reactivity, compared with the response of resting peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of adult subjects, of resting CBMC to varying quantities of hrIL-2 in the absence of any known mitogenic or antigenic stimuli. Most responding cells was CD3 positive. Both CD4-positive and CD8-positive cells responded. However, we observed a more marked increase of the percentage of the CD4-positive T cells and a clear reduction of the percentage of the CD21-positive cells (B-lymphocytes) testing CBMC rather than PBMC of the adult subjects. The percentage of the NK cells was reduced in both the categories of subjects. Moreover, we have examined the reactivity to hrIL-2 of CBMC of preterm neonates. The results showed that this response is low. The peculiar level and kinetic of CBMC proliferative response to hrIL-2 are discussed.

Immunodeficiency and plasma zinc levels in children with Down's syndrome: a long-term follow-up of oral zinc supplementation

To evaluate the possible effect of zinc treatment on immune disorders in children with Down's syndrome (DS), 38 noninstitutionalized DS children were investigated. Twenty-four patients (63.2%) had plasmatic zinc levels lower than 0.70 microgram/dl ("hypozinkemic," LZn) and 14 patients (36.8%) had levels higher than 0.75 microgram/dl ("normozinkemic," NZn). No correlation was found between the zinc deficiency and recurrence and/or intensity of infections. The absolute numbers of peripheral lymphocytes, the percentages of B lymphocytes, total T cells, and serum IgG, IgA, and IgM levels did not differ between the DS children and the controls. Eight (21%) patients had CD4+ T cell counts below the lowest value for the controls. Seventeen (44%) DS patients had increased levels of CD8+ T cells. The mean percentage of Leu 7+ cells in DS subjects (22.8 +/- 12.9%) was significantly higher than that in controls (15.8 +/- 4.8%) (P less than 0.01). Notably, Ig levels and numbers of lymphocytes in each subset did not show any significant difference in NZn and LZn trisomic subjects. On the contrary the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from LZn DS children showed a significantly lower proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) (S.I. = 23.4 +/- 22.4) than that of PBMCs from NZn DS children (S.I. = 46.1 +/- 21.5, P less than 0.01). A significant increase in DNA synthesis was obtained after oral administration of zinc sulfate (20 mg/kg/day, for 2 months). The lymphocyte response to PHA appeared to be normal in all patients up to 6 months after the end of the zinc treatment and it became low in half of the patients 22 months after therapy.