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Cisterna B, Malatesta M. Molecular and Structural Alterations of Skeletal Muscle Tissue Nuclei during Aging. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1833. [PMID: 38339110 PMCID: PMC10855217 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031833] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is accompanied by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. The mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are certainly multifactorial and still remain to be fully elucidated. Changes in the cell nucleus structure and function have been considered among the possible contributing causes. This review offers an overview of the current knowledge on skeletal muscle nuclei in aging, focusing on the impairment of nuclear pathways potentially involved in age-related muscle decline. In skeletal muscle two types of cells are present: fiber cells, constituting the contractile muscle mass and containing hundreds of myonuclei, and the satellite cells, i.e., the myogenic mononuclear stem cells occurring at the periphery of the fibers and responsible for muscle growth and repair. Research conducted on different experimental models and with different methodological approaches demonstrated that both the myonuclei and satellite cell nuclei of aged skeletal muscles undergo several structural and molecular alterations, affecting chromatin organization, gene expression, and transcriptional and post-transcriptional activities. These alterations play a key role in the impairment of muscle fiber homeostasis and regeneration, thus contributing to the age-related decrease in skeletal muscle mass and function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy;
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2
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Inguscio CR, Cisterna B, Carton F, Barberis E, Manfredi M, Malatesta M. Modifications of Blood Molecular Components after Treatment with Low Ozone Concentrations. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17175. [PMID: 38139004 PMCID: PMC10742958 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417175] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The ex vivo treatment of a limited volume of blood with gaseous oxygen-ozone (O2-O3) mixtures and its rapid reinfusion into the patient is a widespread medical procedure. O3 instantly reacts with the blood's antioxidant systems, disappearing before reinfusion, although the molecules formed act as messengers in the organism, inducing multiple antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. An appropriate dose of O3 is obviously essential to ensure both safety and therapeutic efficacy, and in recent years, the low-dose O3 concept has led to a significant reduction in the administered O3 concentrations. However, the molecular events triggered by such low concentrations in the blood still need to be fully elucidated. In this basic study, we analysed the molecular modifications induced ex vivo in sheep blood by 5 and 10 µg O3/mL O2 by means of a powerful metabolomics analysis in association with haemogas, light microscopy and bioanalytical assays. This combined approach revealed increased oxygenation and an increased antioxidant capacity in the O3-treated blood, which accorded with the literature. Moreover, original information was obtained on the impact of these low O3 concentrations on the metabolic pathways of amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleotides, with the modified metabolites being mostly involved in the preservation of the oxidant-antioxidant balance and in energy production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Rita Inguscio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.R.I.); (B.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.R.I.); (B.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Flavia Carton
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.R.I.); (B.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Elettra Barberis
- Department of Sciences and Technological Innovation, University of Piemonte Orientale, Viale T. Michel 11, 15121 Alessandria, Italy;
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Trieste 15/A, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Marcello Manfredi
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Trieste 15/A, 28100 Novara, Italy;
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.R.I.); (B.C.); (F.C.)
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Guglielmi V, Pancheri E, Cannone E, Nigro V, Malatesta M, Vettori A, Giorgetti A, Torella A, Aurino S, Cisterna B, Marchetto G, Tomelleri G, Tonin P, Schiavone M, Vattemi G. A novel in-frame deletion in MYOT causes an early adult onset distal myopathy. Clin Genet 2023; 104:705-710. [PMID: 37553249 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14413] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Missense mutations in MYOT encoding the sarcomeric Z-disk protein myotilin cause three main myopathic phenotypes including proximal limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, spheroid body myopathy, and late-onset distal myopathy. We describe a family carrying a heterozygous MYOT deletion (Tyr4_His9del) that clinically was characterized by an early-adult onset distal muscle weakness and pathologically by a myofibrillar myopathy (MFM). Molecular modeling of the full-length myotilin protein revealed that the 4-YERPKH-9 amino acids are involved in local interactions within the N-terminal portion of myotilin. Injection of in vitro synthetized mutated human MYOT RNA or of plasmid carrying its cDNA sequence in zebrafish embryos led to muscle defects characterized by sarcomeric disorganization of muscle fibers and widening of the I-band, and severe motor impairments. We identify MYOT novel Tyr4_His9 deletion as the cause of an early-onset MFM with a distal myopathy phenotype and provide data supporting the importance of the amino acid sequence for the structural role of myotilin in the sarcomeric organization of myofibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Guglielmi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elia Pancheri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Cannone
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Biology and Genetics, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Nigro
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Vettori
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Annalaura Torella
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Stefania Aurino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Marchetto
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giuliano Tomelleri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Tonin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Schiavone
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Biology and Genetics, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Gaetano Vattemi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Cisterna B, Lofaro FD, Lacavalla MA, Boschi F, Malatesta M, Quaglino D, Zancanaro C, Boraldi F. Aged gastrocnemius muscle of mice positively responds to a late onset adapted physical training. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1273309. [PMID: 38020923 PMCID: PMC10679468 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1273309] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: A regular physical training is known to contribute to preserve muscle mass and strength, maintaining structure and function of neural and vascular compartments and preventing muscle insulin resistance and inflammation. However, physical activity is progressively reduced during aging causing mobility limitations and poor quality of life. Although physical exercise for rehabilitation purposes (e.g., after fractures or cardiovascular events) or simply aiming to counteract the development of sarcopenia is frequently advised by physicians, nevertheless few data are available on the targets and the global effects on the muscle organ of adapted exercise especially if started at old age. Methods: To contribute answering this question for medical translational purposes, the proteomic profile of the gastrocnemius muscle was analyzed in 24-month-old mice undergoing adapted physical training on a treadmill for 12 weeks or kept under a sedentary lifestyle condition. Proteomic data were implemented by morphological and morphometrical ultrastructural evaluations. Results and Discussion: Data demonstrate that muscles can respond to adapted physical training started at old age, positively modulating their morphology and the proteomic profile fostering protective and saving mechanisms either involving the extracellular compartment as well as muscle cell components and pathways (i.e., mitochondrial processes, cytoplasmic translation pathways, chaperone-dependent protein refolding, regulation of skeletal muscle contraction). Therefore, this study provides important insights on the targets of adapted physical training, which can be regarded as suitable benchmarks for future in vivo studies further exploring the effects of this type of physical activity by functional/metabolic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Quaglino
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Boraldi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Cisterna B, Boschi F, Lacavalla MA, Vattemi GNA, Zancanaro C, Malatesta M. Physical training promotes remodeling of the skeletal muscle extracellular matrix: An ultrastructural study in a murine model of Down syndrome. Microsc Res Tech 2023; 86:1517-1528. [PMID: 37381675 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24379] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetically based disease caused by triplication of chromosome 21. DS is characterized by multi-systemic premature aging associated with deficit in motor coordination, balance, and postural control. Using a morphological, morphometrical, and immunocytochemical ultrastructural approach, this study investigated in vastus lateralis muscle of Ts65Dn mouse, a murine model of DS, the effect of an adapted physical training on the extracellular matrix (ECM) characteristics and whether the forecasted exercise-induced ECM remodeling impacts on sarcomere organization. Morphometry demonstrated thicker basement membrane and larger collagen bundles with larger interfibrillar spacing as well as irregularly arrayed myofibrils and lower telethonin density on Z-lines in trisomic versus euploid sedentary mice. In agreement with the multi-systemic premature aging described in DS, these ECM alterations were similar to those previously observed in skeletal muscle of aged mice. Adapted physical training induced remodeling of ECM in both trisomic and euploid mice, that is, enlargement of the collagen bundles associated with hypertrophy of collagen fibrils and reduction of the interfibrillar spacing. A re-alignment of the myofibrils and a higher telethonin density on Z-line was found in trisomic mice. Altogether, our findings suggest that physical training is an effective tool in limiting/counteracting the trisomy-associated musculoskeletal structural anomalies. The current findings constitute a solid experimental background for further study investigating the possible positive effect of physical training on skeletal muscle performance. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Vastus lateralis muscle of trisomic mice shows aging-like alterations of extracellular matrix. Training promotes extracellular matrix remodeling. Training may be an effective tool to counteract trisomy-associated alterations of skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Inguscio CR, Cisterna B, Lacavalla MA, Donati F, Angelini O, Tabaracci G, Malatesta M. Ozone and procaine increase secretion of platelet-derived factors in platelet-rich plasma. Eur J Histochem 2023; 67:3879. [PMID: 37817677 PMCID: PMC10644046 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2023.3879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is gaining more and more attention in regenerative medicine as an innovative and efficient therapeutic approach. The regenerative properties of PRP rely on the numerous bioactive molecules released by the platelets: growth factors are involved in proliferation and differentiation of endothelial cells and fibroblasts, angiogenesis and extracellular matrix formation, while cytokines are mainly involved in immune cell recruitment and inflammation modulation. Attempts are ongoing to improve the therapeutic potential of PRP by combining it with agents able to promote regenerative processes. Two interesting candidates are ozone, administered at low doses as gaseous oxygen-ozone mixtures, and procaine. In the present study, we investigated the effects induced on platelets by the in vitro treatment of PRP with ozone or procaine, or both. We combined transmission electron microscopy to obtain information on platelet modifications and bioanalytical assays to quantify the secreted factors. The results demonstrate that, although platelets were already activated by the procedure to prepare PRP, both ozone and procaine induced differential morpho-functional modifications in platelets resulting in an increased release of factors. In detail, ozone induced an increase in surface protrusions and open canalicular system dilation suggestive of a marked α-granule release, while procaine caused a decrease in surface protrusions and open canalicular system dilation but a remarkable increase in microvesicle release suggestive of high secretory activity. Consistently, nine of the thirteen platelet-derived factors analysed in the PRP serum significantly increased after treatment with ozone and/or procaine. Therefore, ozone and procaine proved to have a remarkable stimulating potential without causing any damage to platelets, probably because they act through physiological, although different, secretory pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Rita Inguscio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona.
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona.
| | - Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona.
| | | | | | | | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona.
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Cannone E, Guglielmi V, Marchetto G, Tobia C, Gnutti B, Cisterna B, Tonin P, Barbon A, Vattemi G, Schiavone M. Human Mutated MYOT and CRYAB Genes Cause a Myopathic Phenotype in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11483. [PMID: 37511242 PMCID: PMC10380269 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411483] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibrillar myopathies (MFMs) are a group of hereditary neuromuscular disorders sharing common histological features, such as myofibrillar derangement, Z-disk disintegration, and the accumulation of degradation products into protein aggregates. They are caused by mutations in several genes that encode either structural proteins or molecular chaperones. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which mutated genes result in protein aggregation are still unknown. To unveil the role of myotilin and αB-crystallin in the pathogenesis of MFM, we injected zebrafish fertilized eggs at the one-cell stage with expression plasmids harboring cDNA sequences of human wildtype or mutated MYOT (p.Ser95Ile) and human wildtype or mutated CRYAB (p.Gly154Ser). We evaluated the effects on fish survival, motor behavior, muscle structure and development. We found that transgenic zebrafish showed morphological defects that were more severe in those overexpressing mutant genes. which developed a myopathic phenotype consistent with that of human myofibrillar myopathy, including the formation of protein aggregates. Results indicate that pathogenic mutations in myotilin and αB-crystallin genes associated with MFM cause a structural and functional impairment of the skeletal muscle in zebrafish, thereby making this non-mammalian organism a powerful model to dissect disease pathogenesis and find possible druggable targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cannone
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Zebrafish Facility, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Valeria Guglielmi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Marchetto
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Tobia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Zebrafish Facility, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Gnutti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Zebrafish Facility, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Tonin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Barbon
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Zebrafish Facility, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Gaetano Vattemi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Schiavone
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Zebrafish Facility, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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Inguscio CR, Lacavalla MA, Cisterna B, Zancanaro C, Malatesta M. Physical Training Chronically Stimulates the Motor Neuron Cell Nucleus in the Ts65Dn Mouse, a Model of Down Syndrome. Cells 2023; 12:1488. [PMID: 37296609 PMCID: PMC10252427 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111488] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetically-based disease based on the trisomy of chromosome 21 (Hsa21). DS is characterized by intellectual disability in association with several pathological traits among which early aging and altered motor coordination are prominent. Physical training or passive exercise were found to be useful in counteracting motor impairment in DS subjects. In this study we used the Ts65Dn mouse, a widely accepted animal model of DS, to investigate the ultrastructural architecture of the medullary motor neuron cell nucleus taken as marker of the cell functional state. Using transmission electron microscopy, ultrastructural morphometry, and immunocytochemistry we carried out a detailed investigation of possible trisomy-related alteration(s) of nuclear constituents, which are known to vary their amount and distribution as a function of nuclear activity, as well as the effect of adapted physical training upon them. Results demonstrated that trisomy per se affects nuclear constituents to a limited extent; however, adapted physical training is able to chronically stimulate pre-mRNA transcription and processing activity in motor neuron nuclei of trisomic mice, although to a lesser extent than in their euploid mates. These findings are a step towards understanding the mechanisms underlying the positive effect of physical activity in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy; (C.R.I.); (M.A.L.); (B.C.); (M.M.)
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Inguscio CR, Dalla Pozza E, Dando I, Boschi F, Tabaracci G, Angelini O, Picotti PM, Malatesta M, Cisterna B. Mitochondrial Features of Mouse Myoblasts Are Finely Tuned by Low Doses of Ozone: The Evidence In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108900. [PMID: 37240245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The mild oxidative stress induced by low doses of gaseous ozone (O3) activates the antioxidant cell response through the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), thus inducing beneficial effects without cell damage. Mitochondria are sensitive to mild oxidative stress and represent a susceptible O3 target. In this in vitro study, we investigated the mitochondrial response to low O3 doses in the immortalized, non-tumoral muscle C2C12 cells; a multimodal approach including fluorescence microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and biochemistry was used. Results demonstrated that mitochondrial features are finely tuned by low O3 doses. The O3 concentration of 10 μg maintained normal levels of mitochondria-associated Nrf2, promoted the mitochondrial increase of size and cristae extension, reduced cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevented cell death. Conversely, in 20 μg O3-treated cells, where the association of Nrf2 with the mitochondria drastically dropped, mitochondria underwent more significant swelling, and ROS and cell death increased. This study, therefore, adds original evidence for the involvement of Nrf2 in the dose-dependent response to low O3 concentrations not only as an Antioxidant Response Elements (ARE) gene activator but also as a regulatory/protective factor of mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Rita Inguscio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Dalla Pozza
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Dando
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy
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Abstract
Uranyl acetate solution has widely been used as staining reagent for samples processed for ultrastructural morphology, cytochemistry, and immunocytochemistry. Although uranyl acetate guarantees high performance as a staining reagent, the radioactive uranyl salts make its use and purchase severely restricted. In this view, we used a non-radioactive lanthanide mix solution as contrasting dye for both nucleoplasmic and nucleolar ribonucleoprotein-containing components. This method guarantees a good contrast without masking the probe-antigen immunoreaction, thus proving to be a suitable tool for high-resolution studies of both cyto- and immunocytochemistry on acrylic resin-embedded samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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11
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Lacavalla MA, Inguscio CR, Cisterna B, Bernardi P, Costanzo M, Galiè M, Scambi I, Angelini O, Tabaracci G, Malatesta M. Ozone at low concentration modulates microglial activity in vitro: A multimodal microscopy and biomolecular study. Microsc Res Tech 2022; 85:3777-3792. [PMID: 36131631 PMCID: PMC9826497 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Oxygen-ozone (O2 -O3 ) therapy is an adjuvant/complementary treatment based on the activation of antioxidant and cytoprotective pathways driven by the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Many drugs, including dimethyl fumarate (DMF), that are used to reduce inflammation in oxidative-stress-related neurodegenerative diseases, act through the Nrf2-pathway. The scope of the present investigation was to get a deeper insight into the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial result of O2 -O3 treatment in some neurodegenerative diseases. To do this, we used an integrated approach of multimodal microscopy (bright-field and fluorescence microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy) and biomolecular techniques to investigate the effects of the low O3 concentrations currently used in clinical practice in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated microglial cells human microglial clone 3 (HMC3) and in DMF-treated LPS-activated (LPS + DMF) HMC3 cells. The results at light and electron microscopy showed that LPS-activation induced morphological modifications of HMC3 cells from elongated/branched to larger roundish shape, cytoplasmic accumulation of lipid droplets, decreased electron density of the cytoplasm and mitochondria, decreased amount of Nrf2 and increased migration rate, while biomolecular data demonstrated that Heme oxygenase 1 gene expression and the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, Interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α augmented. O3 treatment did not affect cell viability, proliferation, and morphological features of both LPS-activated and LPS + DMF cells, whereas the cell motility and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly decreased. This evidence suggests that modulation of microglia activity may contribute to the beneficial effects of the O2 -O3 therapy in patients with neurodegenerative disorders characterized by chronic inflammation. HIGHLIGHTS: Low-dose ozone (O3 ) does not damage activated microglial cells in vitro Low-dose O3 decreases cell motility and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion in activated microglial cells in vitro Low-dose O3 potentiates the effect of an anti-inflammatory drug on activated microglial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Chiara Rita Inguscio
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Paolo Bernardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Mirco Galiè
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Ilaria Scambi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | | | | | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology SectionUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
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12
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Malatesta M, Cisterna B, Costanzo M. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Ozone Therapy: Present Knowledge and Prospective Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012586. [PMID: 36293438 PMCID: PMC9604299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As a complementary, adjuvant or palliative cure, ozone therapy has increasingly been used globally on a wide variety of diseases [...]
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13
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Vattemi GNA, Rossi D, Galli L, Catallo MR, Pancheri E, Marchetto G, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Pierantozzi E, Tonin P, Sorrentino V. Ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) mutations in two patients with tubular aggregate myopathy. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:4214-4223. [PMID: 35666680 PMCID: PMC9539902 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Two likely causative mutations in the RYR1 gene were identified in two patients with myopathy with tubular aggregates, but no evidence of cores or core‐like pathology on muscle biopsy. These patients were clinically evaluated and underwent routine laboratory investigations, electrophysiologic tests, muscle biopsy and muscle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They reported stiffness of the muscles following sustained activity or cold exposure and had serum creatine kinase elevation. The identified RYR1 mutations (p.Thr2206Met or p.Gly2434Arg, in patient 1 and patient 2, respectively) were previously identified in individuals with malignant hyperthermia susceptibility and are reported as causative according to the European Malignant Hyperthermia Group rules. To our knowledge, these data represent the first identification of causative mutations in the RYR1 gene in patients with tubular aggregate myopathy and extend the spectrum of histological alterations caused by mutation in the RYR1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Nicola Alfio Vattemi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Molecular Medicine Section, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Interdepartmental Program of Molecular Diagnosis and Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Rare Genetic Diseases, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Galli
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular Diagnosis and Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Rare Genetic Diseases, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Catallo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Molecular Medicine Section, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elia Pancheri
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Marchetto
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Clinical Neurology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Enrico Pierantozzi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Molecular Medicine Section, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Paola Tonin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Sorrentino
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Molecular Medicine Section, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Interdepartmental Program of Molecular Diagnosis and Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Rare Genetic Diseases, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
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14
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Cisterna B, Bontempi P, Sobolev AP, Costanzo M, Malatesta M, Zancanaro C. Quantitative magnetic resonance characterization of the effect of physical training on skeletal muscle of the Ts65Dn mice, a model of Down syndrome. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2022; 12:2066-2074. [DOI: 10.21037/qims-21-729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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15
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Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Zancanaro C, Boschi F. A computational approach to quantitatively define sarcomere dimensions and arrangement in skeletal muscle. Comput Methods Programs Biomed 2021; 211:106437. [PMID: 34624632 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2021.106437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The skeletal muscle is composed of integrated tissues mainly composed of myofibers i.e., long, cylindrical syncytia, whose cytoplasm is mostly occupied by parallel myofibrils. In section, each myofibril is organized in serially end-to-end arranged sarcomeres connected by Z lines. In muscle disorders, these structural and functional units can undergo structural alterations in terms of Z-line and sarcomere lengths, as well as lateral alignment of Z-line among adjacent myofibrils. In this view, objectifying alterations of the myofibril and sarcomere architecture would provide a solid foundation for qualitative observations. In this work, specific quantitative parameters characterizing the sarcomere and myofibril arrangement were defined using a computerized analysis of ultrastructural images. METHODS computerized analysis was carried out on transmission electron microscopy pictures of the murine vastus lateralis muscle. Samples from both euploid (control) and trisomic (showing myofiber alterations) Ts65Dn mice were used. Two routines were written in MATLAB to measure specific structural parameters on sarcomeres and myofibrils. The output included the Z-line, M-line, and sarcomere lengths, the Aspect Ratio (AsR) and Curviness (Cur) sarcomere shape parameters, myofibril axis (α angle), and the H parameter (evaluation of sequence of Z-lines of adjacent myofibrils). RESULTS Both routines worked well in control (euploid) skeletal muscle yielding consistent quantitative data of sarcomere and myofibril structural organization. In comparison with euploid, trisomic muscle showed statistically significant lower Z-line length, similar M-line length, and statistically significant lower sarcomere length. Both AsR and Cur were statistically significantly lower in trisomic muscle, suggesting the sarcomere is barrel-shaped in the latter. The angle (α) distribution showed that the sarcomere axes are almost parallel in euploid muscle, while a large variability occurs in trisomic tissue. The mean value of H was significantly higher in trisomic versus euploid muscle indicating that Z-lines are not perfectly aligned in trisomic muscle. CONCLUSIONS Our procedure allowed us to accurately extract and quantify sarcomere and myofibril parameters from the high-resolution electron micrographs thereby yielding an effective tool to quantitatively define trisomy-associated muscle alterations. These results pave the way to future objective quantification of skeletal muscle changes in pathological conditions. SHORT ABSTRACT The skeletal muscle is composed of integrated tissues mainly composed of myofibers i.e., long, cylindrical syncytia, whose cytoplasm is mostly occupied by parallel myofibrils organized in serially end-to-end arranged sarcomeres. Several pieces of evidence have highlighted that in muscle disorders and diseases the sarcomere structure may be altered. Therefore, objectifying alterations of the myofibril and sarcomere architecture would provide a solid foundation for qualitative observations. A computerized analysis was carried out on transmission electron microscopy images of euploid (control) and trisomic (showing myofiber alterations) skeletal muscle. Two routines were written in MATLAB to measure nine sarcomere and myofibril structural parameters. Our computational method confirmed and expanded on previous qualitative ultrastructural findings defining several trisomy-associated skeletal muscle alterations. The proposed procedure is a potentially useful tool to quantitatively define skeletal muscle changes in pathological conditions involving the sarcomere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona 37134, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona 37134, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona 37134, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, Verona 37134, Italy.
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16
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Lofaro FD, Cisterna B, Lacavalla MA, Boschi F, Malatesta M, Quaglino D, Zancanaro C, Boraldi F. Age-Related Changes in the Matrisome of the Mouse Skeletal Muscle. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10564. [PMID: 34638903 PMCID: PMC8508832 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910564] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is characterized by a progressive decline of skeletal muscle (SM) mass and strength which may lead to sarcopenia in older persons. To date, a limited number of studies have been performed in the old SM looking at the whole, complex network of the extracellular matrix (i.e., matrisome) and its aging-associated changes. In this study, skeletal muscle proteins were isolated from whole gastrocnemius muscles of adult (12 mo.) and old (24 mo.) mice using three sequential extractions, each one analyzed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Muscle sections were investigated using fluorescence- and transmission electron microscopy. This study provided the first characterization of the matrisome in the old SM demonstrating several statistically significantly increased matrisome proteins in the old vs. adult SM. Several proteomic findings were confirmed and expanded by morphological data. The current findings shed new light on the mutually cooperative interplay between cells and the extracellular environment in the aging SM. These data open the door for a better understanding of the mechanisms modulating myocellular behavior in aging (e.g., by altering mechano-sensing stimuli as well as signaling pathways) and their contribution to age-dependent muscle dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Demetrio Lofaro
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-44100 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (D.Q.)
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37100 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37100 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, I-37100 Verona, Italy;
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37100 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Daniela Quaglino
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-44100 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (D.Q.)
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37100 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Federica Boraldi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-44100 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (D.Q.)
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Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Lacavalla MA, Galiè M, Angelini O, Tabaracci G, Malatesta M. Low Ozone Concentrations Differentially Affect the Structural and Functional Features of Non-Activated and Activated Fibroblasts In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10133. [PMID: 34576295 PMCID: PMC8466365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxygen-ozone (O2-O3) therapy is increasingly applied as a complementary/adjuvant treatment for several diseases; however, the biological mechanisms accounting for the efficacy of low O3 concentrations need further investigations to understand the possibly multiple effects on the different cell types. In this work, we focused our attention on fibroblasts as ubiquitous connective cells playing roles in the body architecture, in the homeostasis of tissue-resident cells, and in many physiological and pathological processes. Using an established human fibroblast cell line as an in vitro model, we adopted a multimodal approach to explore a panel of cell structural and functional features, combining light and electron microscopy, Western blot analysis, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and multiplex assays for cytokines. The administration of O2-O3 gas mixtures induced multiple effects on fibroblasts, depending on their activation state: in non-activated fibroblasts, O3 stimulated proliferation, formation of cell surface protrusions, antioxidant response, and IL-6 and TGF-β1 secretion, while in LPS-activated fibroblasts, O3 stimulated only antioxidant response and cytokines secretion. Therefore, the low O3 concentrations used in this study induced activation-like responses in non-activated fibroblasts, whereas in already activated fibroblasts, the cell protective capability was potentiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Maria Assunta Lacavalla
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Mirco Galiè
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Osvaldo Angelini
- San Rocco Clinic, Via Monsignor G.V. Moreni 95, I-25018 Montichari, Italy; (O.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Gabriele Tabaracci
- San Rocco Clinic, Via Monsignor G.V. Moreni 95, I-25018 Montichari, Italy; (O.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy; (B.C.); (M.C.); (M.A.L.); (M.G.)
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18
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Lacavalla MA, Cisterna B, Zancanaro C, Malatesta M. Ultrastructural immunocytochemistry shows impairment of RNA pathways in skeletal muscle nuclei of old mice: A link to sarcopenia? Eur J Histochem 2021; 65:3229. [PMID: 33764019 PMCID: PMC8033527 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2021.3229] [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: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During aging, skeletal muscle is affected by sarcopenia, a progressive decline in muscle mass, strength and endurance that leads to loss of function and disability. Cell nucleus dysfunction is a possible factor contributing to sarcopenia because aging-associated alterations in mRNA and rRNA transcription/maturation machinery have been shown in several cell types including muscle cells. In this study, the distribution and density of key molecular factors involved in RNA pathways namely, nuclear actin (a motor protein and regulator of RNA transcription), 5-methyl cytosine (an epigenetic regulator of gene transcription), and ribonuclease A (an RNA degrading enzyme) were compared in different nuclear compartments of late adult and old mice myonuclei by means of ultrastructural immunocytochemistry. In all nuclear compartments, an age-related decrease of nuclear actin suggested altered chromatin structuring and impaired nucleus-to-cytoplasm transport of both mRNA and ribosomal subunits, while a decrease of 5-methyl cytosine and ribonuclease A in the nucleoli of old mice indicated an age-dependent loss of rRNA genes. These findings provide novel experimental evidence that, in the aging skeletal muscle, nuclear RNA pathways undergo impairment, likely hindering protein synthesis and contributing to the onset and progression of sarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona.
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona.
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona.
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19
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Gerosa M, Grande MD, Busato A, Vurro F, Cisterna B, Forlin E, Gherlinzoni F, Morana G, Gottardi M, Matteazzi P, Speghini A, Marzola P. Nanoparticles exhibiting self-regulating temperature as innovative agents for Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia. Nanotheranostics 2021; 5:333-347. [PMID: 33732604 PMCID: PMC7961124 DOI: 10.7150/ntno.55695] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last few years, for therapeutic purposes in oncology, considerable attention has been focused on a method called magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) based on local heating of tumor cells. In this paper, an innovative, promising nanomaterial, M48 composed of iron oxide-based phases has been tested. M48 shows self-regulating temperature due to the observable second order magnetic phase transition from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic state. A specific hydrophilic coating based on both citrate ions and glucose molecules allows high biocompatibility of the nanomaterial in biological matrices and its use in vivo. MFH mediator efficiency is demonstrated in vitro and in vivo in breast cancer cells and tumors, confirming excellent features for biomedical application. The temperature increase, up to the Curie temperature, gives rise to a phase transition from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic state, promoting a shortage of the r2 transversal relaxivity that allows a switch in the contrast in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Combining this feature with a competitive high transversal (spin-spin) relaxivity, M48 paves the way for a new class of temperature sensitive T2 relaxing contrast agents. Overall, the results obtained in this study prepare for a more affordable and tunable heating mechanism preventing the damages of the surrounding healthy tissues and, at the same time, allowing monitoring of the temperature reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Gerosa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Dal Grande
- Nanomaterials Research Group, Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona and INSTM, RU Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Busato
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Vurro
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Enrico Forlin
- MBN Nanomaterialia S.p.A., Via Giacomo Bortolan, 42, 31050 Carbonera Treviso, Italy
| | - Filippo Gherlinzoni
- Foundation for Nanotheranostics Research in Cancer Therapy, RNC, Treviso, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morana
- Foundation for Nanotheranostics Research in Cancer Therapy, RNC, Treviso, Italy
| | - Michele Gottardi
- Foundation for Nanotheranostics Research in Cancer Therapy, RNC, Treviso, Italy
| | - Paolo Matteazzi
- MBN Nanomaterialia S.p.A., Via Giacomo Bortolan, 42, 31050 Carbonera Treviso, Italy.,Foundation for Nanotheranostics Research in Cancer Therapy, RNC, Treviso, Italy
| | - Adolfo Speghini
- Nanomaterials Research Group, Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona and INSTM, RU Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, I-37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Pasquina Marzola
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy
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20
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Calderan L, Panettiere P, Accorsi D, Marchi A, Bernardi P, Benati D, Conti G, Chirumbolo S, Zingaretti N, Parodi PC, Cisterna B, Sbarbati A. Ultrastructural features of the double capsulated connective tissue around silicone prostheses. Microsc Res Tech 2020; 84:1155-1162. [PMID: 33301210 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.23673] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The implantation of breast prostheses for both aesthetic and reconstructive purposes has been growing exponentially in the last 20 years. Safety and prosthesis lifespan are majorly debated issues in relation to the correlated long-term complications. Mainly the periprosthetic capsule that develops around the implant is often the cause of complications and particularly for macrotextured silicone breast implants. Some reports have tried to elucidate the mechanism by which macrotextured silicone implants undergo damage and cause double capsule formation. In this study, we investigated the morphological characteristics of double capsule of macrotextured implants surgically removed from patients. With the use of microscopy techniques, this work analyzed the newly formed tissue observed in the interaction between synthetic and biological surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Calderan
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Pietro Panettiere
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Danilo Accorsi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marchi
- Reconstructive Surgery, Unit of "Ricostruzione Mammaria Post Mastectomia", Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI) di Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paolo Bernardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Donatella Benati
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giamaica Conti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nicola Zingaretti
- Clinic of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Udine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Pier Camillo Parodi
- Clinic of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Udine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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21
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Pedrazzoli M, Medelin M, Marchiotto F, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Buffelli M. An improved and simplified protocol to combine Golgi-Cox staining with immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy techniques. Neurochem Int 2020; 142:104922. [PMID: 33242539 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104922] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Approaches utilizing multiple analysis techniques on a single sample are highly desirable in research, especially to reduce the number of animals and obtain the maximum information. Golgi-Cox staining is a widely used method for characterizing axon and dendritic morphology and several attempts to combine this technique with immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy have been proposed. With few exceptions, most of the protocols were characterized by a high degree of complexity and low reproducibility. Here we show a simplified procedure of perfusion, fixation and staining of brain tissues that allows Golgi-Cox staining, immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy in the same sample, to obtain high-quality images with a low-cost procedure. The main novelty in this protocol is the possibility of performing Golgi-Cox staining after the perfusion and post-fixation of brain tissue with a buffered solution containing, not only formaldehyde, but also glutaraldehyde. This renders the tissue suitable for electron microscopy, but it is also compatible with immunofluorescence staining. This combined protocol can be used in most neuroscience laboratories as it does not require special equipment and skills. This protocol will be useful in a broad range of neuroscience topics to study morphological changes during brain development and plasticity in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Pedrazzoli
- University of Verona, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Medelin
- University of Verona, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Marchiotto
- University of Verona, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- University of Verona, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- University of Verona, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy
| | - Mario Buffelli
- University of Verona, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy.
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22
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Cisterna B, Sobolev AP, Costanzo M, Malatesta M, Zancanaro C. Combined Microscopic and Metabolomic Approach to Characterize the Skeletal Muscle Fiber of the Ts65Dn Mouse, A Model of Down Syndrome. Microsc Microanal 2020; 26:1014-1023. [PMID: 32867866 DOI: 10.1017/s143192762002437x] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetically based disease caused by triplication of chromosome 21. DS is characterized by severe muscle weakness associated with motor deficits; however, understanding the DS-associated skeletal muscle condition is limited. In this study, we used a combined methodological approach involving light and electron microscopy, as well as nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy metabolomics, to investigate morphology and composition of the quadriceps muscles in the Ts65Dn mouse, a model of DS, to identify structural and/or functional trisomy-associated alterations. Morphometric analysis demonstrated a larger size of myofibers in trisomic versus euploid mice; however, myofibrils were thinner and contained higher amounts of mitochondria and lipid droplets. In trisomic mice, magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed a tendency to an overall increase in muscle metabolites involved in protein synthesis. These data strongly suggest that in DS, a sarcoplasmic hypertrophy associated with myofibril loss characterizes quadriceps myofibers. In addition, large-sized mitochondria suggestive of impaired fission/fusion events, as well as metabolites modifications suggestive of decreased mitochondrial function, were found in the trisomic muscle. Albeit preliminary, the results provided by this novel approach consistently indicate structural and compositional alterations of the DS skeletal muscle, which are typical of early aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, VeronaI-37134, Italy
| | - Anatoly P Sobolev
- Magnetic Resonance Laboratory "Annalaura Segre", Institute for Biological Systems, National Research Council, via Salaria km 29.300, Monterotondo, RomeI-00015, Italy
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, VeronaI-37134, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, VeronaI-37134, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, VeronaI-37134, Italy
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Malatesta M, Costanzo M, Cisterna B, Zancanaro C. Satellite Cells in Skeletal Muscle of the Hibernating Dormouse, a Natural Model of Quiescence and Re-Activation: Focus on the Cell Nucleus. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041050. [PMID: 32340154 PMCID: PMC7226265 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Satellite cells (SCs) participate in skeletal muscle plasticity/regeneration. Activation of SCs implies that nuclear changes underpin a new functional status. In hibernating mammals, periods of reduced metabolic activity alternate with arousals and resumption of bodily functions, thereby leading to repeated cell deactivation and reactivation. In hibernation, muscle fibers are preserved despite long periods of immobilization. The structural and functional characteristics of SC nuclei during hibernation have not been investigated yet. Using ultrastructural and immunocytochemical analysis, we found that the SCs of the hibernating edible dormouse, Glis glis, did not show apoptosis or necrosis. Moreover, their nuclei were typical of quiescent cells, showing similar amounts and distributions of heterochromatin, pre-mRNA transcription and processing factors, as well as paired box protein 7 (Pax7) and the myogenic differentiation transcription factor D (MyoD), as in euthermia. However, the finding of accumulated perichromatin granules (i.e., sites of storage/transport of spliced pre-mRNA) in SC nuclei of hibernating dormice suggested slowing down of the nucleus-to-cytoplasm transport. We conclude that during hibernation, SC nuclei maintain similar transcription and splicing activity as in euthermia, indicating an unmodified status during immobilization and hypometabolism. Skeletal muscle preservation during hibernation is presumably not due to SC activation, but rather to the maintenance of some functional activity in myofibers that is able to counteract muscle wasting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Malatesta
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 I-37134 Verona, Italy; (M.M.); (M.C.); (C.Z.)
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 I-37134 Verona, Italy; (M.M.); (M.C.); (C.Z.)
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 I-37134 Verona, Italy; (M.M.); (M.C.); (C.Z.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 I-37134 Verona, Italy; (M.M.); (M.C.); (C.Z.)
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Costanzo M, Romeo A, Cisterna B, Calderan L, Bernardi P, Covi V, Tabaracci G, Malatesta M. Ozone at low concentrations does not affect motility and proliferation of cancer cells in vitro. Eur J Histochem 2020; 64. [PMID: 32241095 PMCID: PMC7137928 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2020.3119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to low ozone concentrations is used in medicine as an adjuvant/complementary treatment for a variety of diseases. The therapeutic potential of low ozone concentrations relies on their capability to increase the nuclear translocation of the Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), thus inducing the transcription of Antioxidant Response Elements (ARE)-driven genes and, through a cascade of events, a general cytoprotective response. However, based on the controversial role of Nrf2 in cancer initiation, progression and resistance to therapies, possible negative effects of ozone therapy may be hypothesised in oncological patients. With the aim to elucidate the possible changes in morphology, migration capability and proliferation of cancer cells following mild ozone exposure, we performed wound healing experiments in vitro on HeLa cells treated with low ozone concentrations currently used in the clinical practice. By combining a multimodal microscopy approach (light and fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy) with morphometric analyses, we demonstrated that, under our experimental conditions, exposure to low ozone concentrations does not alter cytomorphology, motility and proliferation features, thus supporting the notion that ozone therapy should not positively affect tumour cell growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Costanzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona.
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25
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Mannucci S, Boschi F, Cisterna B, Esposito E, Cortesi R, Nastruzzi C, Cappellozza E, Bernardi P, Sbarbati A, Malatesta M, Calderan L. A Correlative Imaging Study of in vivo and ex vivo Biodistribution of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:1745-1758. [PMID: 32214808 PMCID: PMC7078788 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s236968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Solid lipid nanoparticles are largely used in biomedical research and are characterized by high stability and biocompatibility and are also able to improve the stability of various loaded molecules. In vitro studies demonstrated that these nanoparticles are low cytotoxic, while in vivo studies proved their efficiency as nanocarriers for molecules characterized by a low bioavailability. However, to our knowledge, no data on the systemic biodistribution and organ accumulation of solid lipid nanoparticles in itself are presently available. Methods In this view, we investigated the solid lipid nanoparticles biodistribution by a multimodal imaging approach correlating in vivo and ex vivo analyses. We loaded solid lipid nanoparticles with two different fluorophores (cardiogreen and rhodamine) to observe them with an optical imager in the whole organism and in the excised organs, and with fluorescence microscopy in tissue sections. Light and transmission electron microscopy analyses were also performed to evaluate possible structural modification or damage due to nanoparticle administration. Results Solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with the two fluorochromes showed good optic characteristics and stable polydispersity. After in vivo administration, they were clearly detectable in the organism. Four hours after the injection, the fluorescent signal occurred in anatomical districts corresponding to the liver and this was confirmed by the ex vivo acquisitions of excised organs. Brightfield, fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy confirmed solid lipid nanoparticles accumulation in hepatocytes without structural damage. Conclusion Our results support the systemic biocompatibility of solid lipid nanoparticles and demonstrate their detailed biodistribution from the whole organism to organs until the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Mannucci
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Esposito
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara I-44121, Italy
| | - Rita Cortesi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara I-44121, Italy
| | - Claudio Nastruzzi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara I-44121, Italy
| | - Enrica Cappellozza
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Paolo Bernardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
| | - Laura Calderan
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona I-37134, Italy
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Bontempi P, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Nicolato E, Mucignat-Caretta C, Zancanaro C. A smaller olfactory bulb in a mouse model of Down syndrome. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2020; 80:375-380. [PMID: 33350990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Persons with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) present different phenotypes, including early neurodegeneration, which is prominent in the brain olfactory areas, and olfactory deficit. The use of in vivo techniques in animal models allows to characterize and follow up these slowly developing phenomena. We explored by means of magnetic resonance imaging the olfactory bulb of the Ts65Dn mouse, an established model of Down syndrome, searching for possible syndrome‑related changes. In vivo imaging provided a first glimpse of the trisomic olfactory bulb as compared to euploid one. The olfactory bulb volume was smaller in trisomic mice, suggesting that changes in olfactory bulb may be apparent already in the young adult (2‑ to 8‑month‑old) mice, which are amenable to follow‑up in vivo. These findings lead the way to future work aimed at characterizing the Down syndrome‑related development of morphological alterations in the olfactory bulb and relating them to changes in olfactory performance, which were detected in this mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Bontempi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Nicolato
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Centro Piattaforme Tecnologiche dell'Università di Verona,Verona, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Bontempi P, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Nicolato E, Mucignat-Caretta C, Zancanaro C. A smaller olfactory bulb in a mouse model of Down syndrome. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2020. [DOI: 10.21307/ane-2020-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Pedrazzoli M, Losurdo M, Paolone G, Medelin M, Jaupaj L, Cisterna B, Slanzi A, Malatesta M, Coco S, Buffelli M. Glucocorticoid receptors modulate dendritic spine plasticity and microglia activity in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 132:104568. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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29
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Costanzo M, Vurro F, Cisterna B, Boschi F, Marengo A, Montanari E, Meo CD, Matricardi P, Berlier G, Stella B, Arpicco S, Malatesta M. Uptake and intracellular fate of biocompatible nanocarriers in cycling and noncycling cells. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2019; 14:301-316. [PMID: 30667300 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2018-0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To elucidate whether different cytokinetic features (i.e., presence or absence of mitotic activity) may influence cell uptake and distribution of nanocarriers, in vitro tests on liposomes, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles and nanohydrogels were carried out on C2C12 murine muscle cells either able to proliferate as myoblasts (cycling cells) or terminally differentiate into myotubes (noncycling cells). MATERIALS & METHODS Cell uptake and intracellular fate of liposomes, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles and nanohydrogels were investigated by confocal fluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS Nanocarrier internalization and distribution were similar in myoblasts and myotubes; however, myotubes demonstrated a lower uptake capability. CONCLUSION All nanocarriers proved to be suitably biocompatible for both myoblasts and myotubes. The lower uptake capability of myotubes is probably due to different plasma membrane composition related to the differentiation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Costanzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine & Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 - 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Vurro
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine & Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 - 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine & Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 - 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 15 - 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marengo
- Department of Drug Science & Technology, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria, 9 - 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Elita Montanari
- Department of Drug Chemistry & Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5 - 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Meo
- Department of Drug Chemistry & Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5 - 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Pietro Matricardi
- Department of Drug Chemistry & Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5 - 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Gloria Berlier
- Department of Chemistry & NIS Centre, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria, 7 - 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Barbara Stella
- Department of Drug Science & Technology, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria, 9 - 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Silvia Arpicco
- Department of Drug Science & Technology, University of Turin, Via P. Giuria, 9 - 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine & Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8 - 37134 Verona, Italy
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Cisterna B, Boschi F, Croce AC, Podda R, Zanzoni S, Degl'Innocenti D, Bernardi P, Costanzo M, Marzola P, Covi V, Tabaracci G, Malatesta M. Ozone Treatment of Grapes During Withering for Amarone Wine: A Multimodal Imaging and Spectroscopic Analysis. Microsc Microanal 2018; 24:564-573. [PMID: 30334518 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927618015209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The production of Amarone wine is governed by a disciplinary guideline to preserve its typical features; however, postharvest infections by the fungus Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea) not only represent a phytosanitary problem but also cause a significant loss of product. In this study, we tested a treatment with mild ozoniztion on grapes for Amarone wine production during withering in the fruttaio (the environment imposed by the disciplinary guideline) and evaluated the impact on berry features by a multimodal imaging approach. The results indicate that short and repeated treatments with low O3 concentrations speed up the naturally occurring berry withering, probably inducing a reorganization of the epicuticular wax layer, and inhibit the development of B. cinerea, blocking the fungus in an intermediate vegetative stage. This pilot study will pave the way to long-term research on Amarone wine obtained from O3-treated grapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- 1Department of Neurosciences,Biomedicine and Movement Sciences,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 8,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Federico Boschi
- 2Department of Computer Science,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 15,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Anna C Croce
- 3Institute of Molecular Genetics(CNR),Via Abbiategrasso 207,Pavia 27100,Italy
| | - Rachele Podda
- 1Department of Neurosciences,Biomedicine and Movement Sciences,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 8,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Serena Zanzoni
- 4Centro Piattaforme Tecnologiche,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 15,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Daniele Degl'Innocenti
- 1Department of Neurosciences,Biomedicine and Movement Sciences,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 8,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Paolo Bernardi
- 1Department of Neurosciences,Biomedicine and Movement Sciences,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 8,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- 1Department of Neurosciences,Biomedicine and Movement Sciences,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 8,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Pasquina Marzola
- 2Department of Computer Science,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 15,Verona 37134,Italy
| | - Viviana Covi
- 5San Rocco Clinic,Via Monsignor G. V. Moreni 95,Montichari 25018,Italy
| | | | - Manuela Malatesta
- 1Department of Neurosciences,Biomedicine and Movement Sciences,University of Verona,Strada Le Grazie 8,Verona 37134,Italy
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Fattoretti P, Malatesta M, Cisterna B, Milanese C, Zancanaro C. Modulatory Effect of Aerobic Physical Activity on Synaptic Ultrastructure in the Old Mouse Hippocampus. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 10:141. [PMID: 29867450 PMCID: PMC5964889 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2018.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aerobic physical exercise (APE) leads to improved brain functions. To better understand the beneficial effect of APE on the aging brain, a morphometric study was carried out of changes in hippocampal synapses of old (>27 months) Balb/c mice undergoing treadmill training (OTT) for 4 weeks in comparison with old sedentary (OS), middle-aged sedentary (MAS) and middle-aged treadmill training (MATT) mice. The inner molecular layer of the hippocampal dentate gyrus (IMLDG) and the molecular stratum of Ammon’s horn1 neurons (SMCA1) were investigated. The number of synapses per cubic micron of tissue (numeric density, Nv), overall synaptic area per cubic micron of tissue (surface density, Sv), average area of synaptic contact zones (S), and frequency (%) of perforated synapses (PS) were measured in electron micrographs of ethanol-phosphotungstic acid (E-PTA) stained tissue. Data were analyzed with analysis of variance (ANOVA). In IMLDG, an effect of age was found for Nv and Sv, but not S and %PS. Similar results were found for exercise and the interaction of age and exercise. In post hoc analysis Nv was higher (60.6% to 75.1%; p < 0.001) in MATT vs. MAS, OS and OTT. Sv was higher (32.3% to 54.6%; p < 0.001) in MATT vs. MAS, OS and OTT. In SMCA1, age affected Nv, Sv and %PS, but not S. The effect of exercise was significant for Sv only. The interaction of age and exercise was significant for Nv, Sv and %PS. In post hoc analysis Nv was lower in OS vs. MAS, MATT and OTT (−26.1% to −32.1%; p < 0.038). MAS and OTT were similar. Sv was lower in OS vs. MAS, MATT and OTT (−23.4 to −30.3%, p < 0.004). MAS and OTT were similar. PS frequency was higher in OS vs. MAS, MATT and OTT (48.3% to +96.6%, p < 0.023). APE positively modulated synaptic structural dynamics in the aging hippocampus, possibly in a region-specific way. The APE-associated reduction in PS frequency in SMCA1 of old mice suggests that an increasing complement of PS is a compensatory phenomenon to maintain synaptic efficacy. In conclusion, the modulation of synaptic plasticity by APE gives quantitative support to the concept that APE protects from neurodegeneration and improves learning and memory in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Fattoretti
- Cellular Bioenergetics Laboratory, Center for Neurobiology of Aging, Istituto Nazionale di Riposo e Cura per Anziani (INRCA), Ancona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Milanese
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Anatomy and Histology Section, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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32
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Sobolev AP, Mannina L, Costanzo M, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Zancanaro C. Age-related changes in skeletal muscle composition: A pilot nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy study in mice. Exp Gerontol 2017; 92:23-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Cisterna B, Giagnacovo M, Costanzo M, Fattoretti P, Zancanaro C, Pellicciari C, Malatesta M. Adapted physical exercise enhances activation and differentiation potential of satellite cells in the skeletal muscle of old mice. J Anat 2016; 228:771-83. [PMID: 26739770 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During ageing, a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and a decrease in muscle strength and endurance take place, in the condition termed sarcopenia. The mechanisms of sarcopenia are complex and still unclear; however, it is known that muscle atrophy is associated with a decline in the number and/or efficiency of satellite cells, the main contributors to muscle regeneration. Physical exercise proved beneficial in sarcopenia; however, knowledge of the effect of adapted physical exercise on the myogenic properties of satellite cells in aged muscles is limited. In this study the amount and activation state of satellite cells as well as their proliferation and differentiation potential were assessed in situ by morphology, morphometry and immunocytochemistry at light and transmission electron microscopy on 28-month-old mice submitted to adapted aerobic physical exercise on a treadmill. Sedentary age-matched mice served as controls, and sedentary adult mice were used as a reference for an unperturbed control at an age when the capability of muscle regeneration is still high. The effect of physical exercise in aged muscles was further analysed by comparing the myogenic potential of satellite cells isolated from old running and old sedentary mice using an in vitro system that allows observation of the differentiation process under controlled experimental conditions. The results of this ex vivo and in vitro study demonstrated that adapted physical exercise increases the number and activation of satellite cells as well as their capability to differentiate into structurally and functionally correct myotubes (even though the age-related impairment in myotube formation is not fully reversed): this evidence further supports adapted physical exercise as a powerful, non-pharmacological approach to counteract sarcopenia and the age-related deterioration of satellite cell capabilities even at very advanced age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marzia Giagnacovo
- Department of Animal Biology, Laboratory of Cell Biology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Patrizia Fattoretti
- Cellular Bioenergetics Laboratory, Center for Neurobiology of Aging, INRCA IRCCS, Ancona, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carlo Pellicciari
- Department of Animal Biology, Laboratory of Cell Biology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Costanzo M, Cisterna B, Vella A, Cestari T, Covi V, Tabaracci G, Malatesta M. Low ozone concentrations stimulate cytoskeletal organization, mitochondrial activity and nuclear transcription. Eur J Histochem 2015; 59:2515. [PMID: 26150162 PMCID: PMC4503975 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2015.2515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ozone therapy is a modestly invasive procedure based on the regeneration capabilities of low ozone concentrations and used in medicine as an alternative/adjuvant treatment for different diseases. However, the cellular mechanisms accounting for the positive effects of mild ozonization are still largely unexplored. To this aim, in the present study the effects of low ozone concentrations (1 to 20 µg O3/mL O2) on structural and functional cell features have been investigated in vitro by using morphological, morphometrical, cytochemical and immunocytochemical techniques at bright field, fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. Cells exposed to pure O2 or air served as controls. The results demonstrated that the effects of ozone administration are dependent on gas concentration, and the cytoskeletal organization, mitochondrial activity and nuclear transcription may be differently affected. This suggests that, to ensure effective and permanent metabolic cell activation, ozone treatments should take into account the cytological and cytokinetic features of the different tissues.
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35
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Malatesta M, Grecchi S, Chiesa E, Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Zancanaro C. Internalized chitosan nanoparticles persist for long time in cultured cells. Eur J Histochem 2015; 59:2492. [PMID: 25820565 PMCID: PMC4378219 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2015.2492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chitosan-based nanoparticles (chiNPs) are considered to be potentially good carriers for the sustained intracellular delivery of specific molecules. However, scarce attention has been paid to the long-lasting permanence of these NPs in the intracellular milieu, as well as to their intracellular fate (i.e., distribution, interaction with cell organelles, and degradation) in the long term. In the present study, the presence and subcellular location of FITC-labelled chiNPs were monitored in HeLa cells up to 14 days post-administration using multicolorfluorescence confocal microscopy and diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation at transmission electron microscopy. The main result of the present study is the demonstration that internalized chiNPs persist inside the cell up to two weeks, occurring in both the cytoplasm and nucleus; accordingly, chiNPs are able to pass from mother to daughter cells through several mitotic cycles. The cells did not show increased mortality or structural damage up to 14 days after chiNP exposure.
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Malatesta M, Pellicciari C, Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Galimberti V, Biggiogera M, Zancanaro C. Tracing nanoparticles and photosensitizing molecules at transmission electron microscopy by diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation. Micron 2013; 59:44-51. [PMID: 24530364 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2013.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
During the last three decades, diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation has been applied in a variety of studies to correlate light and electron microscopy. Actually, when a fluorophore is excited by light, it can induce the oxidation of diaminobenzidine into an electron-dense osmiophilic product, which precipitates in close proximity to the fluorophore, thereby allowing its ultrastructural detection. This method has very recently been developed for two innovative applications: tracking the fate of fluorescently labeled nanoparticles in single cells, and detecting the subcellular location of photo-active molecules suitable for photodynamic therapy. These studies established that the cytochemical procedures exploiting diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation represent a reliable tool for detecting, inside the cells, with high sensitivity fluorescing molecules. These procedures are trustworthy even if the fluorescing molecules are present in very low amounts, either inside membrane-bounded organelles, or at the surface of the plasma membrane, or free in the cytosol. In particular, diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation allowed elucidating the mechanisms responsible for nanoparticles internalization in neuronal cells and for their escape from lysosomal degradation. As for the photo-active molecules, their subcellular distribution at the ultrastructural level provided direct evidence for the lethal multiorganelle photo-damage occurring after cell photo-sensitization. In addition, DAB photo-oxidized samples are suitable for the ultrastructural detection of organelle-specific molecules by post-embedding gold immunolabeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Malatesta
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences (Anatomy and Histology Section), University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - C Pellicciari
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani" (Laboratory of Cell Biology and Neurobiology), University of Pavia, Via A. Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - B Cisterna
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences (Anatomy and Histology Section), University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - M Costanzo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences (Anatomy and Histology Section), University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - V Galimberti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani" (Laboratory of Cell Biology and Neurobiology), University of Pavia, Via A. Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - M Biggiogera
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani" (Laboratory of Cell Biology and Neurobiology), University of Pavia, Via A. Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - C Zancanaro
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences (Anatomy and Histology Section), University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
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Malatesta M, Galimberti V, Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Biggiogera M, Zancanaro C. Chitosan nanoparticles are efficient carriers for delivering biodegradable drugs to neuronal cells. Histochem Cell Biol 2013; 141:551-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-013-1175-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Scherini E, Zancanaro C, Malatesta M. Ultrastructural features of skeletal muscle in adult and aging Ts65Dn mice, a murine model of Down syndrome. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J 2013; 3:287-294. [PMID: 24596692 PMCID: PMC3940502] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Patients with Down syndrome (DS) suffer from muscle hypotonia and an altered motor coordination whose basic mechanisms are still largely unknown. Interestingly, they show muscle weakness like healthy aged subjects, suggesting possible similarity with sarcopenia: to test this hypothesis, the Ts65Dn mouse, a suitable animal model of DS, was employed. The fine structure of skeletal fibres of the quadriceps femoris muscle was analysed in adult (12 months) and aging (19 months) animals and their age-matched euploid controls by combining morphometry and immunocytochemistry at transmission electron microscopy. Results demonstrated structural alterations of mitochondria and myonuclei reminiscent of those observed in age-related sarcopenia, supporting the hypothesis that trisomy leads to an early aging of skeletal muscle consistent with the multi-systemic premature aging typical of DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Costanzo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Elda Scherini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Neurology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Italy
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Malatesta M, Zancanaro C, Costanzo M, Cisterna B, Pellicciari C. Simultaneous ultrastructural analysis of fluorochrome-photoconverted diaminobenzidine and gold immunolabelling in cultured cells. Eur J Histochem 2013; 57:e26. [PMID: 24085275 PMCID: PMC3794357 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2013.e26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diaminobenzidine photoconversion is a technique by which a fluorescent dye is transformed into a stably insoluble, brown, electrondense signal, thus enabling examination at both bright field light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. In this work, a procedure is proposed for combining photoconversion and immunoelectron microscopy: in vitro cell cultures have been first submitted to photoconversion to analyse the intracellular fate of either fluorescent nanoparticles or photosensitizing molecules, then processed for transmission electron microscopy; different fixative solutions and embedding media have been used, and the ultrathin sections were finally submitted to post-embedding immunogold cytochemistry. Under all conditions the photoconversion reaction product and the target antigen were properly detected in the same section; Epon-embedded, osmicated samples required a pre-treatment with sodium metaperiodate to unmask the antigenic sites. This simple and reliable procedure exploits a single sample to simultaneously localise the photoconversion product and a variety of antigens allowing a specific identification of subcellular organelles at the ultrastructural level.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Malatesta
- Dipartimento di Scienze Neurologiche e del Movimento, sezione di Anatomia e Istologia, Università di Verona.
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Malatesta M, Giagnacovo M, Costanzo M, Cisterna B, Cardani R, Meola G. Muscleblind-like1 undergoes ectopic relocation in the nuclei of skeletal muscles in myotonic dystrophy and sarcopenia. Eur J Histochem 2013; 57:e15. [PMID: 23807294 PMCID: PMC3794341 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2013.e15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscleblind-like 1 (MBNL1) is an alternative splicing factor involved in postnatal development of skeletal muscles and heart in humans and mice, and its deregulation is known to be pivotal in the onset and development of myotonic dystrophy (DM). In fact, in DM patients this protein is ectopically sequestered into intranuclear foci, thus compromising the regulation of the alternative splicing of several genes. However, despite the numerous biochemical and molecular studies, scarce attention has been paid to the intranuclear location of MBNL1 outside the foci, although previous data demonstrated that in DM patients various splicing and cleavage factors undergo an abnormal intranuclear distribution suggestive of impaired RNA processing. Interestingly, these nuclear alterations strongly remind those observed in sarcopenia i.e., the loss of muscle mass and function which physiologically occurs during ageing. On this basis, in the present investigation the ultrastructural localization of MBNL1 was analyzed in the myonuclei of skeletal muscles from healthy and DM patients as well as from adult and old (sarcopenic) mice, in the attempt to elucidate possible changes in its distribution and amount. Our data demonstrate that in both dystrophic and sarcopenic muscles MBNL1 undergoes intranuclear relocation, accumulating in its usual functional sites but also ectopically moving to domains which are usually devoid of this protein in healthy adults. This accumulation/delocalization could contribute to hamper the functionality of the whole splicing machinery, leading to a lower nuclear metabolic activity and, consequently, to a less efficient protein synthesis. Moreover, the similar nuclear alterations found in DM and sarcopenia may account for the similar muscle tissue features (myofibre atrophy, fibre size variability and centrally located nuclei), and, in general, for the aging-reminiscent phenotype observed in DM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Malatesta
- Dipartimento di Scienze Neurologiche, Neuropsicologiche, Morfologiche e Motorie, Sezione di Anatomia e Istologia, Università di Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy.
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Fonsato V, Collino F, Herrera MB, Cavallari C, Deregibus MC, Cisterna B, Bruno S, Romagnoli R, Salizzoni M, Tetta C, Camussi G. Human liver stem cell-derived microvesicles inhibit hepatoma growth in SCID mice by delivering antitumor microRNAs. Stem Cells 2013; 30:1985-98. [PMID: 22736596 PMCID: PMC3468738 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Microvesicles (MVs) play a pivotal role in cell-to-cell communication. Recent studies demonstrated that MVs may transfer genetic information between cells. Here, we show that MVs derived from human adult liver stem cells (HLSC) may reprogram in vitro HepG2 hepatoma and primary hepatocellular carcinoma cells by inhibiting their growth and survival. In vivo intratumor administration of MVs induced regression of ectopic tumors developed in SCID mice. We suggest that the mechanism of action is related to the delivery of microRNAs (miRNAs) from HLSC-derived MVs (MV-HLSC) to tumor cells on the basis of the following evidence: (a) the rapid, CD29-mediated internalization of MV-HLSC in HepG2 and the inhibition of tumor cell growth after MV uptake; (b) the transfer by MV-HLSC of miRNAs with potential antitumor activity that was downregulated in HepG2 cells with respect to normal hepatocytes; (c) the abrogation of the MV-HLSC antitumor effect after MV pretreatment with RNase or generation of MVs depleted of miRNAs; (d) the relevance of selected miRNAs was proven by transfecting HepG2 with miRNA mimics. The antitumor effect of MV-HLSC was also observed in tumors other than liver such as lymphoblastoma and glioblastoma. These results suggest that the delivery of selected miRNAs by MVs derived from stem cells may inhibit tumor growth and stimulate apoptosis. Stem Cells2012;30:1985–1998
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Fonsato
- Department of Internal Medicine, Research Center for Experimental Medicine (CeRMS) and Center of Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Pellicciari C, Giagnacovo M, Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Croce AC, Bottiroli G, Malatesta M. Ultrastructural detection of photosensitizing molecules by fluorescence photoconversion of diaminobenzidine. Histochem Cell Biol 2012; 139:863-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-012-1071-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Costanzo M, Cisterna B, Zharskaya OO, Zatsepina OV, Biggiogera M. Discrete foci containing RNase A are found in nucleoli of HeLa cells after aging in culture. Eur J Histochem 2011; 55:e15. [PMID: 22193295 PMCID: PMC3284151 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2011.e15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2011] [Revised: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
We have studied by means of ultrastructural immunocytochemistry the localization of RNase A in nuclei of HeLa cells in control conditions and following cell ageing in culture. We have found that roundish, electron dense foci, which contain a significant amount of RNase A, can be detected within nucleoli of aged cells. These bodies also contain RNA and lack ribosomal S3 proteins, and may represent either simple storage sites or areas where RNA degradation takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Costanzo
- Laboratorio di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Università di Pavia, Italy
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Malatesta M, Biggiogera M, Cisterna B, Balietti M, Bertoni-Freddari C, Fattoretti P. Perichromatin fibrils accumulation in hepatocyte nuclei reveals alterations of pre-mRNA processing during aging. DNA Cell Biol 2010; 29:49-57. [PMID: 20025533 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2009.0880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously described an unusual accumulation of perichromatin fibrils (PF)-the in situ form of pre-mRNA transcription and early splicing-in hepatocyte nuclei of old rats. Here we have investigated, by immunoelectron microscopy, the nature of such PF, analyzing the presence of transcription, splicing and cleavage factors, polyadenylated RNA, and the incorporation of bromouridine in adult and old rats. Our observations revealed alterations in amount and/or distribution of pre-mRNA transcription, splicing and cleavage factors, as well as of polyadenylated RNA, together with lower bromouridine incorporation in newly transcribed RNA in the hepatocyte nucleoplasm of old rats. Therefore, our data indicate both a decrease in pre-mRNA transcription and a slow down of PF processing and transport during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Malatesta
- 1 Department of Morphological and Biomedical Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Abstract
In this chapter we describe the status of the research concerning the nucleolus, the major nuclear body. The nucleolus has been recognized as a dynamic organelle with many more functions than one could imagine. In fact, in addition to its fundamental role in the biogenesis of preribosomes, the nucleolus takes part in many other cellular processes and functions, such as the cell-cycle control and the p53 pathway: the direct or indirect involvement of the nucleolus in these various processes makes it sensitive to their alteration. Moreover, it is worth noting that the different nucleolar factors participating to independent mechanisms show different dynamics of association/disassociation with the nucleolar body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Department of Animal Biology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Vecchio L, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Martin TE, Biggiogera M. Ultrastructural analysis of testes from mice fed on genetically modified soybean. Eur J Histochem 2009. [DOI: 10.4081/920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Dieker J, Muller S, Prosperi E, Biggiogera M. An active mechanism flanks and modulates the export of the small ribosomal subunits. Histochem Cell Biol 2009; 131:743-53. [PMID: 19294406 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-009-0583-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The modalities of export of the ribosomal subunits from the nucleolus to the nuclear pores have been only partially clarified since it is not yet clear whether the movements depend purely on diffusion or also from an active process. Recently, we suggested the existence of an active transport mechanism of a subset (10-12%) of the small ribosomal subunits (SSU) (Cisterna et al. in 2006, Faseb J). Here, we give further evidence that an active, motor protein-mediated process exists for the SSU transport from the nucleolus to the nuclear pore. We demonstrate that the blockade of ATP synthesis and antibody-mediated inhibition of nuclear myosin or actin induce structural and functional modifications of the nucleolus, suggestive of transcriptional activity decrease. Moreover, both treatments induce a significant retention of RNA inside the nucleus and an accumulation of ribosomal subunits in the granular component. We suggest that the existence of this secondary, active mechanism of SSU transport might be utilized by the cell when a more rapid and directional export is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Cisterna
- Laboratorio di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Università di Pavia, Piazza Botta 10, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Cisterna B, Flach F, Vecchio L, Barabino SML, Battistelli S, Martin TE, Malatesta M, Biggiogera M. Can a genetically-modified organism-containing diet influence embryo development? A preliminary study on pre-implantation mouse embryos. Eur J Histochem 2008; 52:263-7. [PMID: 19109102 DOI: 10.4081/1226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, pre-mRNAs undergo several transformation steps to generate mature mRNAs. Recent studies have demonstrated that a diet containing a genetically modified (GM) soybean can induce modifications of nuclear constituents involved in RNA processing in some tissues of young, adult and old mice. On this basis, we have investigated the ultrastructural and immunocytochemical features of pre-implantation embryos from mice fed either GM or non- GM soybean in order to verify whether the parental diet can affect the morpho-functional development of the embryonic ribonucleoprotein structural constituents involved in pre-mRNA pathways. Morphological observations revealed that the general aspect of embryo nuclear components is similar in the two experimental groups. However, immunocytochemical and in situ hybridization results suggest a temporary decrease of pre-mRNA transcription and splicing in 2-cell embryos and a resumption in 4-8-cell embryos from mice fed GM soybean; moreover, pre-mRNA maturation seems to be less efficient in both 2-cell and 4-8-cell embryos from GM-fed mice than in controls. Although our results are still preliminary and limited to the pre-implantation phases, the results of this study encourage deepening on the effects of food components and/or contaminants on embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Cisterna
- Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Laboratorio di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, ed Instituto di Genetica Molecolare del CNR, University of Pavia, Italy
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Dieker J, Cisterna B, Monneaux F, Decossas M, van der Vlag J, Biggiogera M, Muller S. Apoptosis-linked changes in the phosphorylation status and subcellular localization of the spliceosomal autoantigen U1-70K. Cell Death Differ 2008; 15:793-804. [PMID: 18202700 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cdd.4402312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis consists of highly regulated pathways involving post-translational modifications and cleavage of proteins leading to sequential inactivation of the main cellular processes. Here, we focused on the apoptotic processing of one of the essential components of the mRNA splicing machinery, the U1-70K snRNP protein. We found that at an early stage of apoptosis, before the cleavage of the C-terminal part of the protein by caspase-3, the basal phosphorylation of the Ser140 residue located within the RNA recognition motif, increases very significantly. A caspase-dependent, PP1-mediated dephosphorylation of other serine residues takes place in a subset of U1-70K proteins. The U1-70K protein phosphorylated at Ser140 is clustered in heterogeneous ectopic RNP-derived structures, which are finally extruded in apoptotic bodies. The elaborate processing of the spliceosomal U1-70K protein we identified might play an important role in the regulated breakdown of the mRNA splicing machinery during early apoptosis. In addition, these specific changes in the phosphorylation/dephosphorylation balance and the subcellular localization of the U1-70K protein might explain why the region encompassing the Ser140 residue becomes a central autoantigen during the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Dieker
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Strasbourg, France
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Abstract
Perichromatin fibrils represent the morphological expression of transcription and co-transcriptional processing of pre-mRNA. They can be considered, hence, an example of work in progress. High resolution techniques such as electron microscopy demonstrate that perichromatin fibrils play a role as early markers of transcriptional alterations. In this paper, we review some experimental and physiological conditions impairing or modulating transcription as well as their effects on perichromatin fibrils. In all the situations reported, perichromatin fibrils show modifications in their amount and/or their associated proteins. Their movements are also affected, as well as their export or their intra-nuclear storage forms. Perichromatin fibrils therefore represent highly sensitive markers not only for monitoring transcriptional and processing rate but also for identifying the maturation level of pre-mRNA/mRNA occurring in the cell nucleus and the functional correlation with the cellular metabolic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Biggiogera
- Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Laboratorio di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, University of Pavia, and Istituto di Genetica Molecolare del C.N.R., Piazza botta 10, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
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