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Petrelli F, Arru M, Colombo S, Cavallone M, Cribiu' FM, Villardita V, Floris P, Digiesi L, Severgnini G, Moraes MT, Conti B, Celotti A, Viti M, Sozzi A. BRAF mutations and survival with surgery for colorectal liver metastases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Surg Oncol 2024; 50:108306. [PMID: 38603866 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2024.108306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mutations in the BRAF gene (BRAFmut) are associated with an unfavorable prognosis in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with liver metastases and the potential benefits of liver resection in patients with BRAFmut CRC. MATERIAL AND METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Central Controlled Trials, and Embase databases was conducted on May 31, 2023. The inclusion criteria were as follows:1) reporting of outcomes in patients with BRAFmut CRC who underwent surgery for liver metastases and/or comparison of outcomes between those who underwent and those who did not undergo resection; 2) reporting of survival information as hazard ratios (HR); and 3) publication in English. RESULTS 34 studies were included. Median follow up was 48 months for prognostic BRAF status meta-analysis. BRAFmut status showed a significantly increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.04-3.22; P < 0.01) and relapse (HR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.44-2.71; P < 0.01). Resection of liver metastases was associated with a survival benefit (median follow up 46 months). The HR for survival was 0.44 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33-0.59; P < 0.01) in favor of surgery. CONCLUSIONS and Relevance: Our analysis indeed confirms that BRAF mutation is associated with poor survival outcomes after liver resection of CRC metastases. However, upon quantitatively assessing the survival benefit of surgical intervention in patients with BRAF-mutated CRC liver metastases, we identified a significant 56% reduction in the risk of death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcella Arru
- Surgery Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, BG, Italy
| | - Silvia Colombo
- Hepatology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, BG, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Paola Floris
- Surgery Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, BG, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Conti
- Surgery Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, BG, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Viti
- Surgery Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, BG, Italy
| | - Andrea Sozzi
- Surgery Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, BG, Italy
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Costagli S, Abenaim L, Rosini G, Conti B, Giovannoni R. De Novo Genome Assembly at Chromosome-Scale of Hermetia illucens (Diptera Stratiomyidae) via PacBio and Omni-C Proximity Ligation Technology. Insects 2024; 15:133. [PMID: 38392552 PMCID: PMC10889594 DOI: 10.3390/insects15020133] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Hermetia illucens is a species of great interest for numerous industrial applications. A high-quality reference genome is already available for H. illucens. However, the worldwide maintenance of numerous captive populations of H. illucens, each with its own genotypic and phenotypic characteristics, made it of interest to perform a de novo genome assembly on one population of H. illucens to define a chromosome-scale genome assembly. By combining the PacBio and the Omni-C proximity ligation technologies, a new H. illucens chromosome-scale genome of 888.59 Mb, with a scaffold N50 value of 162.19 Mb, was assembled. The final chromosome-scale assembly obtained a BUSCO completeness of 89.1%. By exploiting the Omni-C proximity ligation technology, topologically associated domains and other topological features that play a key role in the regulation of gene expression were identified. Further, 65.62% of genomic sequences were masked as repeated sequences, and 32,516 genes were annotated using the MAKER pipeline. The H. illucens Lsp-2 genes that were annotated were further characterized, and the three-dimensional organization of the encoded proteins was predicted. A new chromosome-scale genome assembly of good quality for H. illucens was assembled, and the genomic annotation phase was initiated. The availability of this new chromosome-scale genome assembly enables the further characterization, both genotypically and phenotypically, of a species of interest for several biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Costagli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Linda Abenaim
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Rosini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Nutrafood Center, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- CIRSEC, Center for Climate Change Impact, Centro di Ricerche Agro-Ambientali, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberto Giovannoni
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Nutrafood Center, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Mannucci A, Panariello L, Abenaim L, Coltelli MB, Ranieri A, Conti B, Santin M, Castagna A. From Food Waste to Functional Biopolymers: Characterization of Chitin and Chitosan Produced from Prepupae of Black Soldier Fly Reared with Different Food Waste-Based Diets. Foods 2024; 13:278. [PMID: 38254579 PMCID: PMC10814476 DOI: 10.3390/foods13020278] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of food waste as a rearing substrate to grow insects is an ecofriendly and sustainable alternative to food waste disposal. In the present research, Hermetia illucens prepupae were reared with a standard diet, different food waste-based diets based on vegetables, fruits, and meat, and a mixed one, where the previous three components were present equally. The demineralization and deproteination of the prepupae allowed for the obtainment of chitin that was then deacetylated to produce chitosan. Also, the bleaching of chitosan was attempted for further purification. The yield of the different reactions was investigated, and the infrared spectra of the obtained materials were analyzed to obtain information on the quantity and acetylation degree trend of the chitin and chitosan as a function of the diet. The possibility to slightly modulate the yield and acetylation degree of both biopolymers thanks to the specific diet was enlightened. Interestingly, the standard diet resulted in the highest fraction of chitin having the highest acetylation degree, and in the highest fraction of chitosan having the lowest acetylation degree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Mannucci
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (L.A.); (A.R.); (B.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Luca Panariello
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Via Diotisalvi 2, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (L.P.); (M.B.C.)
| | - Linda Abenaim
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (L.A.); (A.R.); (B.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Maria Beatrice Coltelli
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Via Diotisalvi 2, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (L.P.); (M.B.C.)
| | - Annamaria Ranieri
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (L.A.); (A.R.); (B.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (L.A.); (A.R.); (B.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Marco Santin
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (L.A.); (A.R.); (B.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonella Castagna
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (L.A.); (A.R.); (B.C.); (A.C.)
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Abenaim L, Conti B. Chitosan as a Control Tool for Insect Pest Management: A Review. Insects 2023; 14:949. [PMID: 38132623 PMCID: PMC10744275 DOI: 10.3390/insects14120949] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Chitosan, a polysaccharide derived from the deacetylation of chitin, is a versatile and eco-friendly biopolymer with several applications. Chitosan is recognized for its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity, beyond its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumoral activities. Thanks to its properties, chitosan is used in many fields including medicine, pharmacy, cosmetics, textile, nutrition, and agriculture. This review focuses on chitosan's role as a tool in insect pest control, particularly for agriculture, foodstuff, and public health pests. Different formulations, including plain chitosan, chitosan coating, chitosan with nematodes, chitosan's modifications, and chitosan nanoparticles, are explored. Biological assays using these formulations highlighted the use of chitosan-essential oil nanoparticles as an effective tool for pest control, due to their enhanced mobility and essential oils' prolonged release over time. Chitosan's derivatives with alkyl, benzyl, and acyl groups showed good activity against insect pests due to improved solubility and enhanced activity compared to plain chitosan. Thus, the purpose of this review is to provide the reader with updated information concerning the use and potential applications of chitosan formulations as pest control tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Abenaim
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
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Gioscia R, Castagno C, Verdoia M, Conti B, Forliti E, Rognoni A. Optimization of the pharmacological therapy in patients with poly-vascular disease: A multidisciplinary approach. World J Cardiol 2023; 15:142-153. [PMID: 37124976 PMCID: PMC10130889 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v15.i4.142] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent shift of the concept of cardiovascular disease as a chronic progressive condition, potentially involving multiple districts, has driven attention to the optimal management of patients with concomitant coronary and peripheral artery disease, representing a subset of patients with an increased risk of events and impaired survival. Recent pharmacological achievements in terms of antithrombotic therapy and lipid-lowering drugs allow multiple therapeutical combinations, thus requiring optimizing the treatment in a tailored fashion according to patients’ risk profiles. Nevertheless, data dedicated to this specific subset of patients are still modest. We summarize currently available strategies and indications for the management of antithrombotic and lipid-lowering drugs in patients with the poly-vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocco Gioscia
- Department of Cardiology, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, Biella 13900, Italy
| | - Claudio Castagno
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, Biella 13900, Italy
| | - Monica Verdoia
- Department of Cardiology, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, Biella 13900, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, Biella 13900, Italy
| | - Enzo Forliti
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, Biella 13900, Italy
| | - Andrea Rognoni
- Department of Cardiology, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi, Biella 13900, Italy
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Tani C, Conti B, Bedini S. Biological Insights on the Invasive Fig Pest Aclees taiwanensis Kȏno, 1933 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Insects 2023; 14:223. [PMID: 36975908 PMCID: PMC10058888 DOI: 10.3390/insects14030223] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The fig weevil Aclees taiwanensis Kȏno, 1933 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is an invasive fig tree pest recently introduced in southern Europe. Reported for the first time in France in 1997 as A. cribratus, and then in Italy in 2005 as A. sp. cf. foveatus, A. taiwanensis is currently threatening fig nurseries, orchards, and wild plants. To date, no control methods have proven to be effective against A. taiwanensis. Although some attempts have been made to describe the insect's biology and behavior, such information is limited to that obtained from adult samples collected in the field. In particular, because of their xylophagous behavior, scarce information is available on the larval stages of the species. The aim of this study, therefore, was to fill these information gaps on the insect biology and behavior by setting up a laboratory protocol suitable for the rearing of A. taiwanensis. Using the developed rearing protocol, we assessed the main fitness parameters of the species including oviposition rate, egg hatchability, embryonic, larval and pupal duration and development, immature survival, pupation behavior, pupal weight, emergence, sex ratio and adult morphological parameters. The proposed rearing procedure allowed us to obtain new information on the main features of the insect's biology that may be useful for setting up strategies for its control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Conti
- Correspondence: (B.C.); (S.B.); Tel.: +39-2216125 (B.C.); +39-2216115 (S.B.)
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Correspondence: (B.C.); (S.B.); Tel.: +39-2216125 (B.C.); +39-2216115 (S.B.)
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Farina P, Ascrizzi R, Bedini S, Castagna A, Flamini G, Macaluso M, Mannucci A, Pieracci Y, Ranieri A, Sciampagna MC, Venturi F, Conti B. Chitosan and Essential Oils Combined for Beef Meat Protection against the Oviposition of Calliphora vomitoria, Water Loss, Lipid Peroxidation, and Colour Changes. Foods 2022; 11:foods11243994. [PMID: 36553736 PMCID: PMC9778219 DOI: 10.3390/foods11243994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Meat production has a higher economic and ecological impact than other commodities. The reduction in meat loss and waste throughout the whole supply chain is a demanding challenge. In recent years, the interest in the food-grade polysaccharide chitosan (CH) and essential oils (EOs) employed as allies in meat protection has increased. In this work, we selected five EOs obtained from plants traditionally used as spices, and after their chemical characterisation, a trained panel of expert sensorial analysts determined that, among them, Laurus nobilis (Lauraceae) and Piper nigrum (Piperaceae) EOs were the most suitable to season meat. Therefore, the effect of CH, the L. nobilis and P. nigrum EOs, and EOs-enriched CH solutions on meat was tested to assess how they deter the oviposition behaviour of the blowfly Calliphora vomitoria (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and against water loss, lipid peroxidation, and colour changes. All the applied treatments, compared to the control, did not accelerate meat dehydration but increased colour lightness, an attractive feature for consumers, and discouraged the blowfly's oviposition. In particular, the P. nigrum EO-enriched CH was the most active in repelling C. vomitoria without negatively affecting the organoleptic qualities and shelf-life of meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Farina
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberta Ascrizzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonella Castagna
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Guido Flamini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Monica Macaluso
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessia Mannucci
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ylenia Pieracci
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Annamaria Ranieri
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Calogera Sciampagna
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Venturi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Farina P, Bedini S, Conti B. Multiple Functions of Malpighian Tubules in Insects: A Review. Insects 2022; 13:insects13111001. [PMID: 36354824 PMCID: PMC9697091 DOI: 10.3390/insects13111001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Malpighian Tubules (MTs) are the main excretory organs in most insects. They play a key role in the production of primary urine and osmoregulation, selectively reabsorbing water, ions, and solutes. Besides these functions conserved in most insects, MTs can serve some specialized tasks at different stages of some species' development. The specialized functions include the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides and proteins for the building of foam nests, mucofibrils for the construction of dwelling tubes, adhesive secretions to help the locomotion, and brochosomes for protection as well as the usage of inorganic salts to harden the puparia, eggs chorion, and pupal cells' closing lids. MTs are also the organs responsible for the astonishing bioluminescence of some Diptera glowworms and can go through some drastic histological changes to produce a silk-like fiber utilized to spin cocoons. The specialized functions are associated with modifications of cells within the entire tubules, in specific segments, or, more rarely, modified secretory cells scattered along the MTs. In this review, we attempted to summarize the observations and experiments made over more than a century concerning the non-excretive functions of insects' MTs, underlying the need for new investigations supported by the current, advanced technologies available to validate outdated theories and clarify some dubious aspects.
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Abenaim L, Bedini S, Greco A, Giannotti P, Conti B. Predation Capacity of the Banded Thrips Aeolothrips intermedius for the Biological Control of the Onion Thrips Thrips tabaci. Insects 2022; 13:insects13080702. [PMID: 36005327 PMCID: PMC9409190 DOI: 10.3390/insects13080702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Aeolothrips intermedius is a native predator of Thrips tabaci, one of the most harmful thrips for many open field crops. Our study evaluated the predatory efficiency of A. intermedius against T. tabaci adults. The results showed that A. intermedius can be considered a promising resource for the biological control of onion thrips. Abstract The onion thrips, Thrips tabaci, is a main insect pest for many field crops worldwide, with a particular preference for the species of the genus Allium. Aeolothrips intermedius is a banded thrips, whose larvae are considered the primary native predator of T. tabaci. Due of their predatory behaviour, A. intermedius larvae are considered a good candidate for biological control against thrips pests. However, limited information is available on the specific predation rate of A. intermedius against T. tabaci. The aim of our study was to evaluate the predatory efficiency of A. intermedius larvae against T. tabaci adults. Predation assays, performed under laboratory conditions, indicated that A. intermedius larvae begin to prey after an average of about 23 min, and the time taken by an A. intermedius larva to capture and subdue the prey until its death is about 26 min. Furthermore, the maximum number of prey that the A. intermedius larvae are able to kill in 12 h is up to eight adults of T. tabaci/A. intermedius larva.
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Abenaim L, Mandoli A, Venturi F, Bedini S, Conti B. Evaluation of a quasi-dimeric eugenol derivative as repellent against the stored grain insect pest Sitophilus oryzae (Coleoptera Curculionidae). Pest Manag Sci 2022; 78:2588-2595. [PMID: 35340112 PMCID: PMC9321561 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6890] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Essential oils (EOs) and their chemical components are often proposed as an alternative to synthetic pesticides for pest control of foodstuff insect pests. However, their low persistence and strong, spicy odour, make them poorly suitable for use to protect food. Modification of the EOs components molecules increases their molecular weight and reduce their volatility. However, the effectiveness of such modified molecules has, so far, not been tested against stored food insect pests. In this study, the intensity and the duration of the repellence against the insect pest Sitophilus oryzae of a recently synthesized quasi-dimeric eugenol derivative (ED) (C18 H20 O4 ) were compared to those of eugenol and three eugenol related compounds. The hypothesis tested was that by its higher molecular weight and two functional groups the ED would overcome the low persistence and strong and spicy odour drawback of eugenol without compromising the repellence against insects. RESULTS The insect behavioural tests showed a greater repellence and persistence of ED than eugenol and the three eugenol related compounds against S. oryzae. The sensory analysis of ED by panel test indicated that ED is significantly less odorous than eugenol without any spicy nor balsamic nuances in its smell profile. CONCLUSIONS Because of its high repellence against insects and its low smell intensity for humans, ED could represent a valid repellent for the control of foodstuffs insect pests. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Abenaim
- Department of Agriculture, Food and EnvironmentUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Alessandro Mandoli
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial ChemistryUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Francesca Venturi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and EnvironmentUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and EnvironmentUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and EnvironmentUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
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Romei C, Castellana R, Conti B, Bemi P, Taliani A, Pistelli F, Karwoski RA, Carrozzi L, De Liperi A, Bartholmai B. Quantitative texture-based analysis of pulmonary parenchymal features on chest CT: comparison with densitometric indices and short-term effect of changes in smoking habit. Eur Respir J 2022; 60:13993003.02618-2021. [DOI: 10.1183/13993003.02618-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
PurposeTo investigate the correlations between densitometric and CALIPER-derived indices of pulmonary emphysema and their change in the short-term period for groups of patients with different smoking habits.MethodThis retrospective study included 284 subjects from the ITALUNG trial (198 men and 86 women; mean age±sd, 60±4) who underwent low-dose chest CT at baseline and 2-year follow-up. Subjects were divided in four groups (persistent smokers, restarters, quitters, and former smokers) according to their smoking habit at baseline and follow-up. Densitometric and texture analyses were performed, using CALIPER software. A correlation analysis was conducted between CALIPER-derived low-attenuation-areas (LAAs) and densitometric indices, including the 15th percentile of the whole-lung attenuation histogram (Perc15) and the relative areas below −950HU (RA950). Densitometric indices and LAAs were evaluated at baseline and variation assessed longitudinally with comparisons between groups with different smoking habit. Further analysis of parenchymal changes per pulmonary zone was performed.ResultsLAAs were strongly correlated with Perc15 (rs=0.81; p<0.001) and RA950 (rs=0.905; p<0.001). At baseline, the group of smokers showed higher Perc15, lower RA950, lower LAAs (particularly mild sub-class of LAAs) than the group of ex-smokers (p<0.001). At 2-year follow-up, densitometric indices and LAAs increased in persistent smokers, former smokers and quitters (p<0.05). The progression was larger and statistically more significant in quitters (p<0.001).ConclusionCALIPER texture analysis provides an objective measure comparable to traditional density/histogram features to assess the lung parenchymal changes in relation to different smoking habit.
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Taglieri I, Bedini S, Zinnai A, Sanmartin C, Conti B, Farina P, Chiriboga Ortega RD, De Leo M, Braca A, Tavarini S, Venturi F. Effects of flaxseed cake fortification on bread shelf life, and its possible use as feed for Tenebrio molitor larvae in a circular economy: preliminary results. J Sci Food Agric 2022; 102:1736-1743. [PMID: 34403496 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.11491] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bread represents a significant share of food waste worldwide. The extension of the bread shelf life together with innovative systems of food waste treatment might decrease waste biomass decay, the need for transportation, and the need for storage. In recent years, insects have been selected as a valuable tool for food waste treatment owing to their capability to transform low-value food waste into biomass with high nutritional value. Bakery wastes can be used profitably for this purpose. This work had two objectives: (i) to measure the impact of flaxseed cake fortification on bread shelf life depending on the leavening agent (baker's yeast vs sourdough); (ii) to evaluate the possible reuse of the stale bread fortified with flaxseed cake for Tenebrio molitor rearing. RESULTS Our results showed that fortification seemed to slow the hardening rate of bread, particularly if baker's yeast was used. The time necessary for mold to appear in sourdough bread doubled (from 2 to 4 days). The addition of flaxseed cake to the recipe determined an increase of its scrap consumption by T. molitor larvae. We also observed a significant increase in the body mass of the T. molitor larvae fed with bread obtained with the brewer's yeast with respect to larvae fed with the sourdough. CONCLUSION Taken together, these preliminary data can indicate that sourdough bread fortified with 5% of flaxseed cake can represent a promising tool to reduce food waste and to recycle bread scraps by a novel zero-waste approach. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Taglieri
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Angela Zinnai
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center, Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- CISUP, Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Sanmartin
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center, Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Priscilla Farina
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Marinella De Leo
- Interdepartmental Research Center, Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- CISUP, Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Braca
- Interdepartmental Research Center, Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- CISUP, Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Tavarini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center, Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Venturi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center, Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- CISUP, Centre for Instrumentation Sharing, Pisa, Italy
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Farina P, Venturi F, Ascrizzi R, Flamini G, Chiriboga Ortega RD, Echeverría MC, Ortega S, Zinnai A, Bedini S, Conti B. Andean Plants Essential Oils: A Scented Alternative to Synthetic Insecticides for the Control of Blowflies. Insects 2021; 12:insects12100894. [PMID: 34680663 PMCID: PMC8540604 DOI: 10.3390/insects12100894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Blowflies are vectors of microorganisms and human pathogens, and their maggots cause myiasis in vertebrates and infest and spoil meat and fish products. Essential oils (EOs) from spices were proven to be a safer and more sustainable alternative to synthetic insecticides for the control of blowflies and are suitable for protecting food from such pests. However, some EOs are not acceptable for environmental or topical applications due to their strong, unpleasant odour. In this study, we measured the acute toxicity and the repellence of two EOs extracted from the Andean plants Aloysia citrodora Palau and Bursera graveolens (Kunth) Triana and Planch., both known for their pleasant odour, against the blue blowfly Calliphora vomitoria (L.) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). We also compared their bioactivity with that of the Allium sativum L. EO, which is very effective but bad-smelling. The A. citrodora EO was mainly rich in oxygenated monoterpenes, the most abundant of which were geranial (26.8%) and neral (21.0%). The B. graveolens EO was chiefly composed of monoterpene hydrocarbons, mostly represented by limonene (46.2%). According to the sensory description, the best odour profile was associated with the A. citrodora EO, while the olfactory expression of the EO from B. graveolens was negatively affected by a strong odour of "mouldy lemon". The behavioural test showed that the A. citrodora EO was more repellent than that of A. sativum and, on the contrary, that the B. graveolens EO was attractive. The toxicity tests showed that the EOs of both Andean plants have a clear toxic effect on the C. vomitoria eggs and adults. In terms of ovicidal activity, there were no significant differences among the effects of the three tested EOs. On the adult flies, the toxicity of the two EOs of the Andean plants was much lower than that of A. sativum (LC50 fumigation = 1.86 μL EO L-1 air; LC50 ingestion = 8.10 μL EO mL-1 gel) both by fumigation (LC50 = 23.66 and 25.30 μL EO L-1 air for A. citrodora and B. graveolens, respectively) and ingestion (LC50 = 36.65 and 44.97 μL EO mL-1 gel for A. citrodora and B. graveolens, respectively), while, by contact, the A. citrodora EO (LD50 = 0.27 μL EO insect-1) was more toxic than the A. sativum EO (LD50 = 0.46 μL EO insect-1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Farina
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (F.V.); (A.Z.); (B.C.)
| | - Francesca Venturi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (F.V.); (A.Z.); (B.C.)
| | - Roberta Ascrizzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (G.F.)
| | - Guido Flamini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (G.F.)
| | - Rodrigo Daniel Chiriboga Ortega
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Av. 17 de Julio, 5-21 y Gral, José María Cordova, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador; (R.D.C.O.); (M.C.E.); (S.O.)
| | - Maria Cristina Echeverría
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Av. 17 de Julio, 5-21 y Gral, José María Cordova, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador; (R.D.C.O.); (M.C.E.); (S.O.)
| | - Sania Ortega
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Av. 17 de Julio, 5-21 y Gral, José María Cordova, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador; (R.D.C.O.); (M.C.E.); (S.O.)
| | - Angela Zinnai
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (F.V.); (A.Z.); (B.C.)
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (F.V.); (A.Z.); (B.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (F.V.); (A.Z.); (B.C.)
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Cotrozzi L, Conti B, Lorenzini G, Pellegrini E, Nali C. In the tripartite combination ozone-poplar-Chrysomela populi, the pollutant alters the plant-insect interaction via primary metabolites of foliage. Environ Res 2021; 201:111581. [PMID: 34174255 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ozone (O3)-induced metabolic changes in leaves are relevant and may have several ecological significances. Here, variations in foliar chemistry of two poplar clones (Populus deltoides × maximowiczii, Eridano, and P. × euramericana, I-214) under a chronic O3 treatment (80 ppb, 5 h d-1 for 10 consecutive days) were investigated. The aim was to elucidate if leaf age and/or O3-sensitivity (considering Eridano and I-214 as O3-sensitive and O3-resistant, respectively) can affect suitability of poplar foliage for Chrysomela populi L. (Coleoptera Chrysomelidae), in terms of palatability. Comparing controls, only low amino acid (AA) contents were reported in Eridano [about 3- and 4-fold in mature and young leaves (ML and YL, respectively)], and all the investigated primary metabolites [i.e. water soluble carbohydrates (WSC), proteins (Prot) and AA] were higher in YL than in ML of I-214 (+23, +54 and + 20%, respectively). Ozone increased WSC only in YL of Eridano (+24%, i.e. highest values among samples; O3 effects are always reported comparing O3-treated plants with the related controls). A concomitant decrease of Prot was observed in both ML and YL of Eridano, while only in YL of I-214 (-41, -45 and -51%, respectively). In addition, O3 decreased AA in YL of Eridano and in ML of I-214 (-40 and -14%, respectively). Comparing plants maintained under charcoal-filtered air, total ascorbate (Asc) was lower in Eridano in both ML and YL (around -22%), and abscisic acid (ABA) was similar between clones; furthermore, higher levels of Asc were reported in YL than in ML of Eridano (+19%). Ozone increased Asc and ABA (about 2- and 3-fold, respectively) in both ML and YL of Eridano, as well as ABA in YL of I-214 (about 2-fold). Comparing leaves maintained under charcoal-filtered air, the choice feeding test showed that the 2nd instar larvae preferred YL, and the quantity of YL consumed was 9 and 4-fold higher than ML in Eridano and I-214, respectively. Comparing leaves exposed to O3-treatment, a significant feeding preference for YL disks was also observed, regardless of the clone. The no-choice feeding test showed that larval growth was slightly higher on untreated YL than on untreated ML (+19 and + 10% in Eridano and I-214, respectively). The body mass of larvae fed with O3-treated YL was also significantly higher than that of larvae fed with untreated YL (3- and 2-fold in Eridano and I-214). This study highlights that realistic O3 concentrations can significantly impact the host/insect interactions, a phenomenon dependent on leaf age and O3-sensitivity of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Cotrozzi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lorenzini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Pellegrini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Cristina Nali
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, I-56124, Pisa, Italy
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Caliani I, Campani T, Conti B, Cosci F, Bedini S, D'Agostino A, Giovanetti L, Di Noi A, Casini S. First application of an Integrated Biological Response index to assess the ecotoxicological status of honeybees from rural and urban areas. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2021; 28:47418-47428. [PMID: 33891238 PMCID: PMC8384815 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14037-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the effects of environmental contaminants on honeybees is essential to minimize their impacts on these important pollinating insects. The aim of this study was to assess the ecotoxicological status of honeybees in environments undergoing different anthropic pressure: a wood (reference site), an orchard, an agricultural area, and an urban site, using a multi-biomarker approach. To synthetically represent the ecotoxicological status of the honeybees, the responses of the single biomarkers were integrated by the Integrated Biological Response (IBRv2) index. Overall, the strongest alteration of the ecotoxicological status (IBRv2 = 7.52) was detected in the bees from the orchard due to the alteration of metabolic and genotoxicity biomarkers indicating the presence of pesticides, metals, and lipophilic compounds. Honeybees from the cultivated area (IBRv2 = 7.18) revealed an alteration especially in neurotoxicity, metabolic, and genotoxicity biomarkers probably related to the presence of pesticides, especially fungicides. Finally, in the urban area (IBRv2 = 6.60), the biomarker results (GST, lysozyme, and hemocytes) indicated immunosuppression in the honeybees and the effects of the presence of lipophilic compounds and metals in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Caliani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Campani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment Entomology, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Cosci
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment Entomology, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment Entomology, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonella D'Agostino
- Department of Management and Quantitative Studies, University of Naples "Parthenope", via Generale Parisi, 13, 80132, Napoli, Italy
| | - Laura Giovanetti
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Agata Di Noi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Casini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
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Greco A, Garoffolo G, Chiesa E, Riva F, Dorati R, Modena T, Conti B, Pesce M, Genta I. Nanotechnology, a booster for the multitarget drug verteporfin. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2021.102562] [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: 11/26/2022]
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Bedini S, Conti B, Hamze R, Muniz ER, Fernandes ÉKK, Ruiu L. Lethal and sub-lethal activity of Brevibacillus laterosporus on the mosquito Aedes albopictus and side effects on non-target water-dwelling invertebrates. J Invertebr Pathol 2021; 184:107645. [PMID: 34245776 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2021.107645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The biocidal potential of Brevibacillus laterosporus against mosquitoes of major medical importance has been widely documented, but its effects on non-target invertebrates are still poorly known. In this study, we determined the lethal and sub-lethal effects of B. laterosporus strain UNISS 18, an entomopathogenic bacterium known for its effectiveness against synanthropic Diptera, on the larvae of the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus, a vector of several pathogens to humans. Moreover, we compared the larvicidal activity with the lethal action on the invasive snail Physella acuta and on two non-target water-dwelling species: the mayfly Cloeon dipterum, and the harlequin fly Chironomus riparius. B. laterosporus exhibited significant lethal effects on all the tested species with a concentration-dependent activity. However, the susceptibility varied among species, with a higher susceptibility of Ae. albopictus (LC50 = 0.16 × 107 spores mL-1) than the other species (LC50 = 0.31, 0.33, and 0.30 × 107 spores mL-1 for C. dipterum, C. riparius, and P. acuta, respectively). While 1st instar mosquito larvae were very susceptible to the bacterial infection, no effects on preimaginal development stages and adult emergence were observed at sub-lethal spores' concentrations. Even if the efficacy of B. laterosporus against Ae. albopictus and the invasive freshwater snail P. acuta is promising for their control, the susceptibility of non-target beneficial aquatic insects, highlights the need of accurate evaluations before applying B. laterosporus for pest management in water environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (DAFE), University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto, 80 - 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (DAFE), University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto, 80 - 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Rim Hamze
- Dipartimento di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100 Sassari, Italy; Lebanese University, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elen Regozino Muniz
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Éverton K K Fernandes
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO 74690-900, Brazil
| | - Luca Ruiu
- Dipartimento di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39, 07100 Sassari, Italy; Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
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Caliani I, Campani T, Conti B, Cosci F, Bedini S, D'Agostino A, Ammendola A, Di Noi A, Gori A, Casini S. Multi-biomarker approach and IBR index to evaluate the effects of different contaminants on the ecotoxicological status of Apis mellifera. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021; 208:111486. [PMID: 33130481 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [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: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The honeybee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae), a keystone pollinator of wild plant species and agricultural crops, is disappearing globally due to parasites and diseases, habitat loss, genetic constraints, beekeeper management issues and to the widespread use of pesticides. Besides insecticides, widely studied in this species, honeybees are also exposed to herbicides and fungicides and heavy metals whose lethal and sublethal effects need to be investigated. In this context, our study aimed to evaluate the effects of fungicides and of heavy metals on honeybees and to develop and apply a multi-biomarker approach that include an Integrated Biological Index (IBRv2) to assess the toxicological status of this species. Biomarkers of neurotoxicity (AChE and CaE), metabolic alteration (ALP, and GST) and immune system (LYS, granulocytes) were measured, following honeybees' exposure to cadmium or to a crop fungicide, using the genotoxic compound EMS as positive control. A biomarker of genotoxicity (NA assay) was developed and applied for the first time in honeybees. At the doses tested, all the contaminants showed sublethal toxicity to the bees, highlighting in particular genotoxic effects. The data collected were analyzed by an IBRv2 index, which integrated the seven biomarkers used in this study. IBRv2 index increased with increasing cadmium or fungicide concentrations. The IBRv2 represents a simple tool for a general description of honeybees ecotoxicological health status. Results highlight the need for more in-depth investigations on the effects of fungicides on non-target organisms, such as honeybees, using sensitive methods for the determination of sublethal effects. This study contributes to the development of a multi-biomarker approach to be used for a more accurate ecotoxicological environmental monitoring of these animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Caliani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Campani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment Entomology, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Cosci
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment Entomology, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment Entomology, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonella D'Agostino
- Department of Management and Quantitative Studies, University of Naples "Parthenope", via Generale Parisi, 13, 80132 Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna Ammendola
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Agata Di Noi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gori
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Casini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, via Mattioli, 4, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Farina P, Mazza G, Benvenuti C, Cutino I, Giannotti P, Conti B, Bedini S, Gargani E. Biological Notes and Distribution in Southern Europe of Aclees taiwanensis Kȏno, 1933 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): A New Pest of the Fig Tree. Insects 2020; 12:insects12010005. [PMID: 33374604 PMCID: PMC7822453 DOI: 10.3390/insects12010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary In recent years, a new pest, the black weevil Aclees taiwanensis Kȏno, 1933 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) native to Asia, has been recorded in France and Italy. Aclees taiwanensis larvae cause the rapid death of the fig tree (Ficus carica), digging alimentation galleries in the trunk and surface roots, compromising the phloem flux. To date, no specific EU regulation has been applied to prevent the A. taiwanensis spread, and we can reasonably expect a rapid diffusion of this pest all over the Mediterranean area where F. carica is widespread. This paper updates the known distribution of this species in Southern Europe, using a citizen science approach, and describes, under laboratory and field conditions, its main biological traits. Abstract Ficus carica L. is one of the earliest cultivated fruit trees, and figs are a typical fruit of the Mediterranean diet and traditional medicine as well. In recent years, a new pest, the black weevil Aclees taiwanensis Kȏno, 1933 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) native to Asia, has been recorded in France and Italy. Aclees taiwanensis causes the rapid death of the fig tree by its larvae that dig alimentation galleries in the trunk and surface roots, compromising the phloem flux. In Italy, from 2005, the year of the first detection of A. taiwanensis, the fig production has nearly halved, decreasing from 20.09 t to 10.65 t. To date, no specific EU regulation has been applied to prevent the A. taiwanensis spread, and we can reasonably expect a rapid diffusion of this pest all over the Mediterranean area. To avoid the loss of the Mediterranean fig orchards, effective strategies to detect and control the black weevil are required. Such strategies need a detailed knowledge of A. taiwanensis distribution, biology, and physiology. This paper updates the known distribution of this species in Southern Europe, using a citizen science approach, and describes, under laboratory and field conditions, its main biological traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Farina
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (P.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Mazza
- CREA Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Via di Lanciola 12/a, 50125 Firenze, Italy; (G.M.); (C.B.); (I.C.); (E.G.)
| | - Claudia Benvenuti
- CREA Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Via di Lanciola 12/a, 50125 Firenze, Italy; (G.M.); (C.B.); (I.C.); (E.G.)
| | - Ilaria Cutino
- CREA Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Via di Lanciola 12/a, 50125 Firenze, Italy; (G.M.); (C.B.); (I.C.); (E.G.)
| | - Paolo Giannotti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (P.G.)
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (P.G.)
- Correspondence: (B.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.F.); (P.G.)
- Correspondence: (B.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Elisabetta Gargani
- CREA Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Via di Lanciola 12/a, 50125 Firenze, Italy; (G.M.); (C.B.); (I.C.); (E.G.)
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Bedini S, Cosci F, Tani C, Pierattini EC, Venturi F, Lucchi A, Ioriatti C, Ascrizzi R, Flamini G, Ferroni G, Taglieri I, Conti B. Essential Oils as Post-Harvest Crop Protectants against the Fruit Fly Drosophila suzukii: Bioactivity and Organoleptic Profile. Insects 2020; 11:insects11080508. [PMID: 32764515 PMCID: PMC7469183 DOI: 10.3390/insects11080508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The spotted-wing drosophila Drosophila suzukii is an invasive small fruit fly that causes extensive damage to many fruit crops. To control this pest, the use of aromatic plants essential oils (EOs) is gaining importance since they are bioactive, biodegradable, and ecologically safe. However, despite of the EOs proved efficacy, they still do not have a widespread application due to their high volatility, composition variability and especially their strong smell. In this study we evaluated not only the EOs bioactivity but also their effects on the organoleptic profile of treated fruits. We tested two EOs extracted from mandarin (Citrus reticulata) and tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) very different for composition and smell. Both the EOs were effective in repelling D. suzukii. However, while no negative effects on the organoleptic profiles were detected for the fruits treated with Citrus reticulata EO, the fruits treated with M. alternifolia EO were defined by the panel of experts as “not suitable for consumption”. Overall, our findings indicate that the use of EOs for the post-harvest protection of small fruits is feasible, provided that the EOs have been selected not only for their bioactivity against the insect pest but also for their affinity with the consumers’ sensorial system. Abstract The essential oils extracted from mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) fruits, and from tea tree (Maleleuca alternifolia (Maiden and Betche) Cheel) leaves have been chemically analyzed and tested for their bioactivity against D. suzukii. Besides, to estimate consumers’ acceptability of the essential oil (EO) treatments, we evaluated their impact on the organoleptic characteristics of the EO-treated fruits. The main chemical constituents of the two EOs were 1,8-cineole and 4-terpineol for M. alternifolia (22.4% and 17.6% of the total components, respectively), and limonene (83.6% of the total components) for C. reticulata. The behavioral tests indicate that the two EOs are able to deter D. suzukii oviposition and that D. suzukii shows positive chemotaxis to low concentrations of the EOs and negative chemotaxis when the EO concentration increases. While no negative effects on the organoleptic profiles were detected for fruits treated with C. reticulata EO, the olfactory profile of fruits treated with M. alternifolia EO was so negative that they were defined as “not suitable for consumption” by panellists. Overall, our findings indicate that the use of EOs for the post-harvest protection of small fruits is feasible, provided that the essential oils are selected not only for their bioactivity against the insect pest but also for their affinity with the consumers’ sensorial system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Francesca Cosci
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Camilla Tani
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Erika Carla Pierattini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Francesca Venturi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (B.C.); Tel.: +39-050-221-6625 (F.V.); +39-050-221-6125 (B.C.)
| | - Andrea Lucchi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Claudio Ioriatti
- Technology Transfer Centre—Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM), Via E. Mach 1, 38010 San Michele all’Adige, TN, Italy;
| | - Roberta Ascrizzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (G.F.)
| | - Guido Flamini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (G.F.)
| | - Giuseppe Ferroni
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Isabella Taglieri
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.); (C.T.); (E.C.P.); (A.L.); (G.F.); (I.T.)
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (B.C.); Tel.: +39-050-221-6625 (F.V.); +39-050-221-6125 (B.C.)
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Najar B, Pistelli L, Venturi F, Ferroni G, Giovanelli S, Cervelli C, Bedini S, Conti B. Salvia Spp. Essential Oils against the Arboviruses Vector Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae): Bioactivity, Composition, and Sensorial Profile-Stage 1. Biology (Basel) 2020; 9:biology9080206. [PMID: 32759742 PMCID: PMC7463507 DOI: 10.3390/biology9080206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Mosquito-borne arboviruses diseases cause a substantial public health burden within their expanding range. To date, their control relies on synthetic insecticides and repellents aimed to control the competent mosquito vectors. However, their use is hampered by their high economic, environmental, and human health impacts. Natural products may represent a valid eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides to control mosquitoes, and mosquito-borne parasitic diseases. The aim of this work was to combine the chemical and sensorial profiles with the bioactivity data of Salvia spp. essential oils (EOs) to select the most suitable EO to be used as a repellent and insecticide against the invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae), vector of pathogens and parasites, and to describe the EOs smell profile. To do this, the EOs of four Salvia species, namely S. dolomitica, S. dorisiana, S. sclarea, and S. somalensis were extracted, chemically analyzed and tested for their bioactivity as larvicides and repellents against Ae. albopictus. Then, the smell profiles of the EOs were described by a panel of assessors. The LC50 of the EOs ranged from 71.08 to 559.77 μL L−1 for S. dorisiana and S. sclarea, respectively. S. sclarea EO showed the highest repellence among the tested EOs against Ae. albopictus females (RD95 = 12.65 nL cm−2), while the most long-lasting, at the dose of 20 nL cm−2, was S. dorisiana (Complete Protection Time = 43.28 ± 3.43 min). S. sclarea EO showed the best smell profile, while S. dolomitica EO the worst one with a high number of off-flavors. Overall, all the EOs, with the exception of the S. dolomitica one, were indicated as suitable for “environmental protection”, while S. dorisiana and S. sclarea were indicated as suitable also for “Body care”.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma Najar
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (B.N.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Luisa Pistelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (B.N.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca Nutrafood “Nutraceutica e Alimentazione per la Salute”, Università di Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesca Venturi
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca Nutrafood “Nutraceutica e Alimentazione per la Salute”, Università di Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Ferroni
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Silvia Giovanelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (B.N.); (L.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Claudio Cervelli
- CREA–Centro di Ricerca Orticoltura e Florovivaismo, Corso Inglesi 508, 18038 Sanremo, Italy;
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (B.C.); Tel.: +39-050-221-6129 (S.B.); +39-050-221-6125 (B.C.)
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, via Del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (B.C.); Tel.: +39-050-221-6129 (S.B.); +39-050-221-6125 (B.C.)
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22
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Iovinella I, Pierattini EC, Bedini S, Dani FR, Guarino S, Lucchi A, Giannotti P, Cuzzupoli G, Girardi J, Conti B. Semiochemicals for intraspecific communication of the fig weevil Aclees sp. cf. foveatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): a first survey. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1092. [PMID: 31974464 PMCID: PMC6978528 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58004-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The fig tree weevil Aclees sp. cf. foveatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), introduced in Italy in 2005, is currently causing significant economic and environmental losses to fig tree nurseries and orchards in Central Italy. Fig damages are due to the adults feeding on leaves and fruits, and to the galleries dug by the xylophagous larvae in the trunk, which lead the plants to death. To date, no chemical or biological control methods resulted to be effective against this invasive pest. In order to gain information about possible semiochemicals involved in mate recognition and choice, both the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the epicuticular lipids of male and female specimens were analysed. VOCs emissions of specimens were characterized essentially by monoterpenes, while epicuticular lipids contained long chained 2-ketones, alkanes, alkenes, including some methyl alkenes, and several fatty acid propyl esters. The attractiveness of reconstituted VOCs blends of the two sexes was tested in electrophysiological and behavioural assays in laboratory conditions. Both the male and the female reconstituted VOCs drove a significant response towards individuals of the opposite sex, thus demonstrating features of sexual attractants. Our results suggest a possible application of VOCs blends as pheromonic attractants in field monitoring and mass trapping of Aclees sp. cf. foveatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immacolata Iovinella
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Erika Carla Pierattini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Francesca Romana Dani
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Salvatore Guarino
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Corso Calatafimi 414, 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Lucchi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Giannotti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giorgio Cuzzupoli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Jessica Girardi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56126, Pisa, Italy
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Castagno C, Conti B, Forliti E. A New CTA-Free Approach to Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) Follow Up with Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS). Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2019.06.1057] [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: 10/25/2022]
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Romani R, Bedini S, Salerno G, Ascrizzi R, Flamini G, Echeverria MC, Farina P, Conti B. Andean Flora as a Source of New Repellents against Insect Pests: Behavioral, Morphological and Electrophysiological Studies on Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Insects 2019; 10:insects10060171. [PMID: 31207971 PMCID: PMC6628024 DOI: 10.3390/insects10060171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky) is considered as one of the most destructive foodstuff pests. Due to their efficiency, low toxicity for mammalians and low environmental impact, plant-derived essential oils (EOs) are promising tools for pest control. In particular, the OEs extracted from Lamiaceae are considered among the most bioactive in terms of repellent and/or insecticidal effect. Here, we investigated the repellence of the EOs extracted from two aromatic plant species typical of the flora of the Ecuadorian Andes, Clinopodium tomentosum and C. nubigeum, against adults of S. zeamais. The behavioral assays carried out at concentrations ranging from 0.7 to 23.9 μL L−1 air in a two-way static olfactometer showed a significant repellent effect starting from the concentration of 8.4 mL L−1 air both for the EO of C. nubigenum and C. tomentosum. We also carried out a complete structural analysis of the antenna of S. zeamais using scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), in order to characterize the olfactory sensilla equipment. In this species, there is no sexual dimorphism also as regards to the antennal morphology and the sensilla type and distribution. We identified six type of sensilla, among which at least three types (Sensillum Trichoideum 1, Sensillum Trichoideum 2 and Grooved Peg Sensillum) can be considered as olfactory. Electroantennography (EAG) recordings carried out on S. zeamais revealed a positive dose-response to both EOs, without differences between the two sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Romani
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy.
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Gianandrea Salerno
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy.
| | | | - Guido Flamini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56122 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Echeverria
- Facultad de Ingeniería en Ciencias Agropecuarias y Ambientales, Grupo de Investigaciones Ambientales y Biotecnológicas, Universidad Tecnica del Norte, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador.
| | - Priscilla Farina
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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Bedini S, Flamini G, Cosci F, Ascrizzi R, Echeverria MC, Gomez EV, Guidi L, Landi M, Lucchi A, Conti B. Toxicity and oviposition deterrence of essential oils of Clinopodium nubigenum and Lavandula angustifolia against the myiasis-inducing blowfly Lucilia sericata. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212576. [PMID: 30785945 PMCID: PMC6382167 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous myiasis is a severe worldwide medical and veterinary issue. In this trial the essential oil (EO) of the Andean medicinal plant species Clinopodium nubigenum (Kunth) Kuntze was evaluated for its bioactivity against the myiasis-inducing blowfly Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera Calliphoridae) and compared with that of the well-known medicinal plant species Lavandula angustifolia Mill. The EOs were analysed and tested in laboratory for their oviposition deterrence and toxicity against L. sericata adults. The physiology of EO toxicity was evaluated by enzymatic inhibition tests. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of the EOs were tested as well. At 0.8 μL cm-2, both EOs completely deterred L. sericata oviposition up to 3 hours. After 24 h, the oviposition deterrence was still 82.7% for L. angustifolia and the 89.5% for C. nubigenum. The two EOs were also toxic to eggs and adults of L. sericata. By contact/fumigation, the EOs, the LC50 values against the eggs were 0.07 and 0.48 μL cm-2 while, by topical application on the adults, LD50 values were 0.278 and 0.393 μL per individual for C. nubigenum and L. angustifolia EOs, respectively. Inhibition of acetylcholine esterase of L. sericata by EOs (IC50 = 67.450 and 79.495 mg L-1 for C. nubigenum and L. angustifolia, respectively) suggested that the neural sites are targets of the EO toxicity. Finally, the observed antibacterial and antifungal properties of C. nubigenum and L. angustifolia EOs suggest that they could also help prevent secondary infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Guido Flamini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Cosci
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Maria C. Echeverria
- Facultad de Ingeniería en Ciencias Agropecuarias y Ambientales, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra, Ecuador
| | - Evelin V. Gomez
- Facultad de Ingeniería en Ciencias Agropecuarias y Ambientales, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra, Ecuador
| | - Lucia Guidi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Landi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Lucchi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Dorati R, Pisani S, Maffeis G, Conti B, Modena T, Chiesa E, Bruni G, Musazzi UM, Genta I. Study on hydrophilicity and degradability of chitosan/polylactide-co-polycaprolactone nanofibre blend electrospun membrane. Carbohydr Polym 2018; 199:150-160. [PMID: 30143115 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2018.06.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Electrospinning is an interesting technique to produce polymer membranes made of entangled nanofibres. The technique is raising interest in pharmaceutical and biomedical areas. Either electrospun membranes are studied for tissue regeneration purposes, or incorporation of nanoparticles in electrospun membranes can be an opportunity to control the delivery of drug or to obtain dual drug delivery system. In this work suspensions of hydrochloride chitosan salt in copolymer polylactide-co-polycaprolactone (PLA-PCL) solution were electrospun in order to assess an advanced study for developing polymer nanofibre blend membrane loaded with chitosan polymer. The aim of the work was to investigate the properties and stability of chitosan/PLA-PCL electrospun membranes considering their application for tissue regeneration and drug delivery. The electrospun membranes were characterized for their physico-chemical (FT-IR) morphology (SEM) and in vitro biological properties (cytocompatibility and cells engraftment). Results show that homogeneous electrospun PLA-PCL/chitosan blend nanofibres in the range size 800 nm were obtained. Chitosan was loaded inside the nanofibres up to 27.2% (w/w) without modifying nanofibre shape, and only 6% of the loaded chitosan resulted to be on the nanofibre surface. The presence of chitosan in the nanofibres has shown to accelerate the electrospun membranes degradation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Dorati
- Department of Drug Science, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - S Pisani
- Department of Drug Science, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Maffeis
- Phase I Clinical Trial Unit and Experimental Therapy, IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi 19, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - B Conti
- Department of Drug Science, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - T Modena
- Department of Drug Science, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Chiesa
- Department of Drug Science, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Bruni
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Physical Section University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - U M Musazzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - I Genta
- Department of Drug Science, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 12, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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Scasso F, Ferrari G, DE Vincentiis GC, Arosio A, Bottero S, Carretti M, Ciardo A, Cocuzza S, Colombo A, Conti B, Cordone A, DE Ciccio M, Delehaye E, Della Vecchia L, DE Macina I, Dentone C, DI Mauro P, Dorati R, Fazio R, Ferrari A, Ferrea G, Giannantonio S, Genta I, Giuliani M, Lucidi D, Maiolino L, Marini G, Marsella P, Meucci D, Modena T, Montemurri B, Odone A, Palma S, Panatta ML, Piemonte M, Pisani P, Pisani S, Prioglio L, Scorpecci A, Scotto DI Santillo L, Serra A, Signorelli C, Sitzia E, Tropiano ML, Trozzi M, Tucci FM, Vezzosi L, Viaggi B. Emerging and re-emerging infectious disease in otorhinolaryngology. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital 2018; 38:S1-S106. [PMID: 29967548 PMCID: PMC6056203 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-suppl.1-38-2018] [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: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY Emerging and re-emerging infectious disease in otorhinolaryngology (ENT) are an area of growing epidemiological and clinical interest. The aim of this section is to comprehensively report on the epidemiology of key infectious disease in otorhinolaryngology, reporting on their burden at the national and international level, expanding of the need of promoting and implementing preventive interventions, and the rationale of applying evidence-based, effective and cost- effective diagnostic, curative and preventive approaches. In particular, we focus on i) ENT viral infections (HIV, Epstein-Barr virus, Human Papilloma virus), retrieving the available evidence on their oncogenic potential; ii) typical and atypical mycobacteria infections; iii) non-specific granulomatous lymphadenopathy; iv) emerging paediatric ENT infectious diseases and the prevention of their complications; v) the growing burden of antimicrobial resistance in ENT and the strategies for its control in different clinical settings. We conclude by outlining knowledge gaps and action needed in ENT infectious diseases research and clinical practice and we make references to economic analysis in the field of ENT infectious diseases prevention and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Scasso
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 3 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - G Ferrari
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - G C DE Vincentiis
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - A Arosio
- Clinica Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Macchi, ASST Settelaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - S Bottero
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M Carretti
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - A Ciardo
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - S Cocuzza
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A Colombo
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Cardinal Massaia, Asti, Italy
| | - B Conti
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Cordone
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 3 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - M DE Ciccio
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - E Delehaye
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - L Della Vecchia
- Clinica Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Macchi, ASST Settelaghi, Varese, Italy
| | - I DE Macina
- SOC Malattie Infettive, ASL 1 Imperiese, Ospedale di Sanremo, Italy
| | - C Dentone
- SOC Malattie Infettive, ASL 1 Imperiese, Ospedale di Sanremo, Italy
| | - P DI Mauro
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - R Dorati
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - R Fazio
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 5 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Levante Ligure, La Spezia, Italy
| | - A Ferrari
- Direzione Sanitaria, AOU Parma, Italy
| | - G Ferrea
- SOC Malattie Infettive, ASL 1 Imperiese, Ospedale di Sanremo, Italy
| | - S Giannantonio
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - I Genta
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Giuliani
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - D Lucidi
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - L Maiolino
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - G Marini
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - P Marsella
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - D Meucci
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - T Modena
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - B Montemurri
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - A Odone
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - S Palma
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria di Udine (ASUIUD), Italy
| | - M L Panatta
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M Piemonte
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria di Udine (ASUIUD), Italy
| | - P Pisani
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Cardinal Massaia, Asti, Italy
| | - S Pisani
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Prioglio
- SOC Otorinolaringoiatria, ASL 3 Genovese, Ospedale P.A. Micone, Genova, Italy
| | - A Scorpecci
- UOC Audiologia e Otochirurgia, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | | | - A Serra
- Clinica di Otorinolaringoiatria, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - C Signorelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy; Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - E Sitzia
- UOC Otorinolaringoiatria, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M L Tropiano
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - M Trozzi
- UOC Chirurgia delle Vie Aeree, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - F M Tucci
- UOS Chirurgia Cervicale ORL, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - L Vezzosi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy; Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - B Viaggi
- SOC Neuroanestesia e Rianimazione, A.O.U. Careggi, Firenze, Italy
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Petrelli F, Maltese M, Tomasello G, Conti B, Borgonovo K, Cabiddu M, Ghilardi M, Ghidini M, Passalacqua R, Barni S, Brighenti M. Clinical and Molecular Predictors of PD-L1 Expression in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Lung Cancer 2018. [PMID: 29530732 DOI: 10.1016/j.cllc.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [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] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Clinicopathologic and molecular characteristics of non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) associated with a strong expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1+ in > 5% of cells) have not been well elucidated. Expression of PD-L1 is a poor prognostic factor, but NSCLCs with higher levels of PD-L1 have greater benefit when treated with immunotherapy. We have performed a systematic review to synthesize the available evidence regarding clinicopathologic and molecular variables associated with PD-L1 expression in NSCLC. PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant articles assessing predictors of PD-L1 expression in > 5% cells. Data were reported as odds ratio (OR) of events. Fifty-two studies (for a total of 5066 PD-L1+ out of 13,279 NSCLC patients) were included in this meta-analysis. Factors associated with PD-L1 expression were: smoking status (OR 5.48; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8-10.4; P < .001), male gender (OR 4.8; 95% CI 3.2-7.2; P < .001), adenocarcinoma histology (OR 2.75; 95% CI, 1.5-4.8; P < .001), Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) wild type (OR 4.83; 95% CI, 2.1-11.1; P < .001), ALK mutation negative (OR 388.6; 95% CI, 222.5-678.7; P < .001), ROS mutation negative (OR 1904.8; 95% CI, 630-5757; P < .001), and KRAS wild type (OR 19.8; 95% CI, 7.6-51.6; P < .001). Conversely higher pT stages (OR 0.16; 95% CI, 0.04-0.7; P = .01), pN+ stages (OR 0.29; 95% CI, 0.17-0.5; P < .001) are inversely associated with PD-L1 expression in > 5% cells. Expression of PD-L1 is more common in male smokers, with adenocarcinoma histology and not carriers of EGFR/ALK/ROS/KRAS mutations. These data could be useful to screening of PD-L1 expression and to select patients for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Petrelli
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy.
| | - Mariangela Maltese
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Ospedale di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tomasello
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Ospedale di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Surgery, Surgical Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Karen Borgonovo
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Mary Cabiddu
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Mara Ghilardi
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Michele Ghidini
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Ospedale di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Rodolfo Passalacqua
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Ospedale di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Sandro Barni
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Bergamo Ovest, Treviglio, Italy
| | - Matteo Brighenti
- Department of Oncology, Oncology Unit, ASST Ospedale di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
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Chiesa E, Dorati R, Modena T, Conti B, Genta I. Multivariate analysis for the optimization of microfluidics-assisted nanoprecipitation method intended for the loading of small hydrophilic drugs into PLGA nanoparticles. Int J Pharm 2017; 536:165-177. [PMID: 29175645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.11.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Design of Experiment-assisted evaluation of critical process (total flow rate, TFR, flow rate ratio, FRR) and formulation (polymer concentration and structure, drug:polymer ratio) variables in a novel microfluidics-based device, a staggered herringbone micromixer (SHM), for poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymer (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) manufacturing was performed in order to systematically evaluate and mathematically describe their effects on NPs sizes and drug encapsulation; a small hydrophilic moiety, N-acetylcysteine, was chosen as challenging model drug. SHM-assisted nanoprecipitation method consistently yielded NPs with tailor made sizes (in the range of 100-900 nm) and polydispersity index range from 0.061 to 0.286. Significant effects on NPs sizes were highlighted for TFR and FRR: increasing TFR (from 5 to 15 mL/min) and decreasing FRR (from 1:1 to 1:5 v/v, acetonitrile: buffer) NPs with mean diameter <200 nm were obtained. SHM technique allowed for flexible, application-specific tuning of PLGA NPs size using organic solvents with relatively low toxicity (acetone, acetonitrile), varying aqueous phase composition (Tris buffer vs PVA aqueous solution) and PLGA characteristics (Mw ranging from 25-90 kDa, capped or un-capped PLGA, different lactide:glycolide molar ratio). A very satisfactory N-Ac encapsulation efficiency (more than 67%) and a prolonged release (by 168 h) were achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Chiesa
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, V.le Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - R Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, V.le Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Polymerix s.r.l., V.le Taramelli 24, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - T Modena
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, V.le Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - B Conti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, V.le Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Polymerix s.r.l., V.le Taramelli 24, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - I Genta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, V.le Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
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Solorzano Zambrano L, Usai G, Vangelisti A, Mascagni F, Giordani T, Bernardi R, Cavallini A, Gucci R, Caruso G, D'Onofrio C, Quartacci MF, Picciarelli P, Conti B, Lucchi A, Natali L. Cultivar-specific transcriptome prediction and annotation in Ficus carica L. Genom Data 2017; 13:64-66. [PMID: 28736702 PMCID: PMC5510491 DOI: 10.1016/j.gdata.2017.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The availability of transcriptomic data sequence is a key step for functional genomics studies. Recently, a repertoire of predicted genes of a Japanese cultivar of fig (Ficus carica L.) was released. Because of the great phenotypic variability that can be found in this species, we decided to study another fig genotype, the Italian cv. Dottato, in order to perform comparative studies between the two cultivars and extend the pan genome of this species. We isolated, sequenced and assembled fig genomic DNA from young fruits of cv. Dottato. Then, putative gene sequences were predicted and annotated. Finally, a comparison was performed between cvs. Dottato and Horaishi predicted transcriptomes. Our data provide a resource (available at the Sequence Read Archive database under SRP109082) to be used for functional genomics of fig, in order to fill the gap of knowledge still existing in this species concerning plant development, defense and adaptation to the environment.
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Brighenti M, Petrelli F, Barni S, Conti B, Sarti E, Ratti M, Panni S, Passalacqua R, Bersanelli M. Radical treatment of oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer: Ready for prime time? Eur J Cancer 2017; 79:149-151. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2017.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 03/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Murugan K, Venus JSE, Panneerselvam C, Bedini S, Conti B, Nicoletti M, Sarkar SK, Hwang JS, Subramaniam J, Madhiyazhagan P, Kumar PM, Dinesh D, Suresh U, Benelli G. Biosynthesis, mosquitocidal and antibacterial properties of Toddalia asiatica-synthesized silver nanoparticles: do they impact predation of guppy Poecilia reticulata against the filariasis mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus? Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2015; 22:17053-17064. [PMID: 26122577 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4920-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases represent a deadly threat for millions of people worldwide. Furthermore, pathogens and parasites polluting water also constitute a severe plague for populations of developing countries. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgN) were biosynthesized a cheap aqueous extract of T. asiatica leaves as reducing and stabilizing agent. The formation of nanoparticle was confirmed by surface Plasmon resonance band illustrated in UV-vis spectrophotometer. AgN were characterized by FTIR, SEM, EDX, and XRD analyses. AgN were mostly spherical in shape, crystalline in nature, with face-centered cubic geometry, and their mean size was 25-30 nm. T. asiatica aqueous extract and green-synthesized AgN showed excellent larvicidal and pupicidal toxicity against the filariasis vector Culex quinqufasciatus, both in laboratory and field experiments. AgN LC50 ranged from 16.48 (I instar larvae) to 31.83 ppm (pupae). T. asiatica-synthesized were also highly effective in inhibiting growth of Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhi using the agar disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration protocol. Lastly, we evaluated if sublethal doses of nanoparticles affect predation rates of fishes, Poecilia reticulata, against C. quinquefasciatus. In AgN-contaminated environment, predation of guppies against mosquito larvae was slightly higher over normal laboratory conditions. Overall, this study highlighted that T. asiatica-synthesized AgN are easy to produce, stable over time, and may be employed at low dosages to reduce populations of filariasis vectors, without detrimental effects on predation rates of mosquito natural enemies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadarkarai Murugan
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Joseph Selvaraj Eugine Venus
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chellasamy Panneerselvam
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Stefano Bedini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Conti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marcello Nicoletti
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Santosh Kumar Sarkar
- Department of Marine Science, University of Calcutta, West Bengal, 700019, India
| | - Jiang-Shiou Hwang
- Institute of Marine Biology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, 202-24, Taiwan
| | - Jayapal Subramaniam
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Pari Madhiyazhagan
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanisamy Mahesh Kumar
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Devakumar Dinesh
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Udaiyan Suresh
- Division of Entomology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Giovanni Benelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
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Corazzari M, Rapino F, Ciccosanti F, Giglio P, Antonioli M, Conti B, Fimia GM, Lovat PE, Piacentini M. Oncogenic BRAF induces chronic ER stress condition resulting in increased basal autophagy and apoptotic resistance of cutaneous melanoma. Cell Death Differ 2015; 22:946-58. [PMID: 25361077 PMCID: PMC4423179 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2014.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The notorious unresponsiveness of metastatic cutaneous melanoma to current treatment strategies coupled with its increasing incidence constitutes a serious worldwide clinical problem. Moreover, despite recent advances in targeted therapies for patients with BRAF(V600E) mutant melanomas, acquired resistance remains a limiting factor and hence emphasises the acute need for comprehensive pre-clinical studies to increase the biological understanding of such tumours in order to develop novel effective and longlasting therapeutic strategies. Autophagy and ER stress both have a role in melanoma development/progression and chemoresistance although their real impact is still unclear. Here, we show that BRAF(V600E) induces a chronic ER stress status directly increasing basal cell autophagy. BRAF(V600E)-mediated p38 activation stimulates both the IRE1/ASK1/JNK and TRB3 pathways. Bcl-XL/Bcl-2 phosphorylation by active JNK releases Beclin1 whereas TRB3 inhibits the Akt/mTor axes, together resulting in an increase in basal autophagy. Furthermore, we demonstrate chemical chaperones relieve the BRAF(V600E)-mediated chronic ER stress status, consequently reducing basal autophagic activity and increasing the sensitivity of melanoma cells to apoptosis. Taken together, these results suggest enhanced basal autophagy, typically observed in BRAF(V600E) melanomas, is a consequence of a chronic ER stress status, which ultimately results in the chemoresistance of such tumours. Targeted therapies that attenuate ER stress may therefore represent a novel and more effective therapeutic strategy for BRAF mutant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Corazzari
- Department of Biology, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
| | - F Rapino
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
| | - F Ciccosanti
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
| | - P Giglio
- Department of Biology, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - M Antonioli
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
| | - B Conti
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
| | - G M Fimia
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Technology (Di.S.Te.B.A.), University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - P E Lovat
- Dermatological Sciences Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - M Piacentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘L. Spallanzani', Rome, Italy
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Benelli G, Bedini S, Flamini G, Cosci F, Cioni PL, Amira S, Benchikh F, Laouer H, Di Giuseppe G, Conti B. Mediterranean essential oils as effective weapons against the West Nile vector Culex pipiens and the Echinostoma intermediate host Physella acuta: what happens around? An acute toxicity survey on non-target mayflies. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:1011-21. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4267-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Benelli G, Murugan K, Panneerselvam C, Madhiyazhagan P, Conti B, Nicoletti M. Old ingredients for a new recipe? Neem cake, a low-cost botanical by-product in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:391-7. [PMID: 25563612 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4286-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) represent an important threat to millions of people worldwide, since they act as vectors for important pathogens, such as malaria, yellow fever, dengue and West Nile. Control programmes mainly rely on chemical treatments against larvae, indoor residual spraying and insecticide-treated bed nets. In recent years, huge efforts have been carried out to propose new eco-friendly alternatives, with a special focus on the evaluation of plant-borne mosquitocidal compounds. Major examples are neem-based products (Azadirachta indica A. Juss, Meliaceae) that have been proven as really effective against a huge range of pests of medical and veterinary importance, including mosquitoes. Recent research highlighted that neem cake, a cheap by-product from neem oil extraction, is an important source of mosquitocidal metabolites. In this review, we examined (i) the latest achievements about neem cake metabolomics with special reference to nor-terpenoid and related content; (ii) the neem cake ovicidal, larvicidal and pupicidal toxicity against Aedes, Anopheles and Culex mosquito vectors; (iii) its non-target effects against vertebrates; and (iv) its oviposition deterrence effects on mosquito females. Overall, neem cake can be proposed as an eco-friendly and low-cost source of chemicals to build newer and safer control tools against mosquito vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Benelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy,
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Benelli G, Bedini S, Cosci F, Toniolo C, Conti B, Nicoletti M. Larvicidal and ovideterrent properties of neem oil and fractions against the filariasis vector Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae): a bioactivity survey across production sites. Parasitol Res 2014; 114:227-36. [PMID: 25327954 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-4183-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Neem seed oil (NSO) of Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae) contains more than 100 determined biologically active compounds, and many formulations deriving from them showed toxicity, antifeedancy and repellence against a number of arthropod pests. However, it is widely known that botanical products can differ in their chemical composition and bioactivity, as function of the production site and production process. We used high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) to investigate differences in chemical constituents of NSOs from three production sites. HPTLC analyses showed several differences in chemical abundance and diversity among NSOs, with special reference to limonoids. Furthermore, the three NSOs and their fractions of increasing polarities [i.e. ethyl acetate (EA) fraction and butanol (BU) fraction] were evaluated for larvicidal toxicity and field oviposition deterrence against the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, currently the most invasive mosquito worldwide. Results from bioactivity experiments showed good toxicity of NSOs and EA fractions against A. albopictus fourth instar larvae (with LC50 values ranging from 142.28 to 209.73 ppm), while little toxicity was exerted by BU fractions. A significant effect of the production site and dosage was also found and is probably linked to differences in abundance of constituents among samples, as highlighted by HPTLC analyses. NSOs and EAs were also able to deter A. albopictus oviposition in the field (effective repellence values ranging from 98.55 to 70.10%), while little effectiveness of BU fractions was found. Concerning ovideterrent activity, no difference due to the production site was found. This is the first report concerning larvicidal toxicity of NSO against A. albopictus and ovideterrence against Culicidae in the field. The chance to use chemicals from the NSO EA fraction seems promising, since they are effective at lower doses, if compared to synthetic products currently marketed, and could be an advantageous alternative to build newer and safer mosquito control tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Benelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy,
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Atzori L, Conti B, Zucca M, Pau M. Bullous pemphigoid induced by m-TOR inhibitors in renal transplant recipients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2014; 29:1626-30. [PMID: 25174440 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an acquired autoimmune disease, with typical histology and immune pathological findings, which might be associated with drug therapy. The list of responsible drugs increases every year, but a current literature revision do not include the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors. By converse, bullous pemghigoid cases have been described in renal transplant recipients and associated with the allogenic graft itself, causing a cross reaction against the skin, or unbalancing the immune response, through a chronic cell-mediated suppression, non-specifically favouring the autoantibody production. OBJECT AND RESULTS Two cases of BP occurred, respectively, 10 days to 2 months after the addition to their current regimen of everolimus in a 35-year-old woman and sirolimus in a 65-year-old man. The graft functionality was within normal range. General corticosteroids therapy resistance, immediate improvement after drug discontinuation (dechallenge) and relapse after re-exposure (rechallenge) were striking criteria supporting a causative role of the drugs, grouped in the mTOR inhibitors class. CONCLUSIONS The diagnosis of drug-induced events is crucial for early management, and particularly bullous eruptions affect patients' health and quality of life. Additional research is necessary to confirm the m-TOR inhibitors association, which exploit the possible mechanisms and eventually point out preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Atzori
- Dermatology Clinic, Department of Medical Science "M.Aresu", University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - B Conti
- Department of Dermatology, AOU of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - M Zucca
- Department of Dermatology, AOU of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - M Pau
- Department of Dermatology, AOU of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Iovinella I, Pelosi P, Conti B. A rationale to design longer lasting mosquito repellents. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:1813-20. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3827-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Dorati R, Colonna C, Tomasi C, Genta I, Modena T, Conti B. Design of 3D Hybrid Composite Scaffolds: Effect of Composition on Scaffold Structure and Cell Proliferation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1002/masy.201300108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences; University of Pavia; V.le Taramelli 12 27100 Pavia Italy
- Center for Tissue Engineering (CIT); University of Pavia; Via Ferrata 1 27100 Pavia Italy
| | - C. Colonna
- Department of Drug Sciences; University of Pavia; V.le Taramelli 12 27100 Pavia Italy
- Center for Tissue Engineering (CIT); University of Pavia; Via Ferrata 1 27100 Pavia Italy
| | - C. Tomasi
- C.S.G.I.; Department of Chemistry; Division of Physical Chemistry; University of Pavia; V.le Taramelli 16 I 27100 Pavia Italy
| | - I. Genta
- Department of Drug Sciences; University of Pavia; V.le Taramelli 12 27100 Pavia Italy
- Center for Tissue Engineering (CIT); University of Pavia; Via Ferrata 1 27100 Pavia Italy
| | - T. Modena
- Department of Drug Sciences; University of Pavia; V.le Taramelli 12 27100 Pavia Italy
| | - B. Conti
- Department of Drug Sciences; University of Pavia; V.le Taramelli 12 27100 Pavia Italy
- Center for Tissue Engineering (CIT); University of Pavia; Via Ferrata 1 27100 Pavia Italy
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Canale A, Benelli G, Conti B, Lenzi G, Flamini G, Francini A, Cioni PL. Ingestion toxicity of three Lamiaceae essential oils incorporated in protein baits against the olive fruit fly,Bactrocera oleae(Rossi) (Diptera Tephritidae). Nat Prod Res 2013; 27:2091-9. [DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2013.784871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Dorati R, Colonna C, Tomasi C, Genta I, Bruni G, Conti B. Design of 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering testing a tough polylactide-based graft copolymer. Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl 2013; 34:130-9. [PMID: 24268242 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2013.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this research was to investigate a tough polymer to develop 3D scaffolds and 2D films for tissue engineering applications, in particular to repair urethral strictures or defects. The polymer tested was a graft copolymer of polylactic acid (PLA) synthesized with the rationale to improve the toughness of the related PLA homopolymer. The LMP-3055 graft copolymer (in bulk) demonstrated to have negligible cytotoxicity (bioavailability >85%, MTT test). Moreover, the LMP-3055 sterilized through gamma rays resulted to be cytocompatible and non-toxic, and it has a positive effect on cell biofunctionality, promoting the cell growth. 3D scaffolds and 2D film were prepared using different LMP-3055 polymer concentrations (7.5, 10, 12.5 and 15%, w/v), and the effect of polymer concentration on pore size, porosity and interconnectivity of the 3D scaffolds and 2D film was investigated. 3D scaffolds got better results for fulfilling structural and biofunctional requirements: porosity, pore size and interconnectivity, cell attachment and proliferation. 3D scaffolds obtained with 10 and 12.5% polymer solutions (3D-2 and 3D-3, respectively) were identified as the most suitable construct for the cell attachment and proliferation presenting pore size ranged between 100 and 400μm, high porosity (77-78%) and well interconnected pores. In vitro cell studies demonstrated that all the selected scaffolds were able to support the cell proliferation, the cell attachment and growth resulting to their dependency on the polymer concentration and structural features. The degradation test revealed that the degradation of polymer matrix (ΔMw) and water uptake of 3D scaffolds exceed those of 2D film and raw polymer (used as control reference), while the mass loss of samples (3D scaffold and 2D film) resulted to be controlled, they showed good stability and capacity to maintain the physical integrity during the incubation time.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, V.le Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Center for Tissue Engineering (CIT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
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Colonna C, Dorati R, Conti B, Caliceti P, Genta I. Sub-unit vaccine against S. aureus-mediated infections: Set-up of nano-sized polymeric adjuvant. Int J Pharm 2013; 452:390-401. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2013.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Benelli G, Pacini N, Conti B, Canale A. Following a scented beetle: larval faeces as a key olfactory cue in host location of Stegobium paniceum (Coleoptera: Anobiidae) by Lariophagus distinguendus (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae). CHEMOECOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00049-012-0125-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Sugama S, Takenouchi T, Fujita M, Kitani H, Conti B, Hashimoto M. Corticosteroids limit microglial activation occurring during acute stress. Neuroscience 2012; 232:13-20. [PMID: 23262242 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [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] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Revised: 11/08/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Our previous studies demonstrated that exposure of animals to acute stress immediately induced morphological microglial activation in the brain. Here we investigated the effects of adrenal corticoids on microglial activation following acute stress. We compared microglial activation in vivo in adrenalectomized (ADX), Sham-operated (SHM), and adrenalectomy plus corticosterone (CORT) administered rats exposed to a 2-h period of acute water restraint stress. We found that: (1) acute stress induced microglial activation in SHM rats; (2) acute stress robustly enhanced microglial activation in ADX rats; (3) CORT treatment significantly reduced the effects of adrenalectomy. Thus, while acute stress has the ability to activate microglia, the magnitude of activation is negatively regulated by CORT. Glucocorticoids may serve as an important endogenous suppressive signal limiting neuroinflammation that might otherwise occur during stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sugama
- Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8602, Japan.
| | - T Takenouchi
- Division of Animal Sciences, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Ohwashi 1-2, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8634, Japan
| | - M Fujita
- Division of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-0057, Japan
| | - H Kitani
- Division of Animal Sciences, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Ohwashi 1-2, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8634, Japan
| | - B Conti
- Department of Chemical Physiology, The Scripps Research Institute, 1055 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - M Hashimoto
- Division of Sensory and Motor Systems, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-0057, Japan
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Conti B, Leonardi M, Pistelli L, Profeti R, Ouerghemmi I, Benelli G. Larvicidal and repellent activity of essential oils from wild and cultivated Ruta chalepensis L. (Rutaceae) against Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae), an arbovirus vector. Parasitol Res 2012; 112:991-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-012-3221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Dorati R, Colonna C, Tomasi C, Bruni G, Genta I, Modena T, Conti B. Long-term effect of gamma irradiation on the functional properties and cytocompatibility of multiblock co-polymer films. J Biomater Sci Polym Ed 2012; 23:2223-40. [PMID: 22152647 DOI: 10.1163/156856211x613915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this work was to investigate the long-term effect of gamma-irradiation treatment on the functional properties of PEG-PDLLA and PEG-PLGA films and to evaluate the cytocompatibility of sterilized samples. Chemical and thermal properties, and cytocompatibility of sterilized films were detected for samples at time zero and after storage at 5 ± 3°C for 60 days. An in vitro degradation study was carried out on polymer samples to examine the effect of sterilization on the degradation performances of co-polymer films. Incubated samples were characterized in terms of film surface structure (SEM), chemical (GPC) and thermal (DSC) properties. The study performed on films upon gamma sterilization showed no significant changes of the PEG-PDLLA and PEG-PLGA film structure, while GPC analysis highlighted that the effect of gamma irradiation was dependent on the Mw and composition of polymers. DSC traces suggested more pronounced gamma-ray effects on the PEG-PLGA multiblock co-polymer. During the stability study important changes in terms of structure surface, thermal properties and cytocompatibility were observed and investigated. Data collected during the in vitro degradation study emphasized the need to know and investigate the degradation performances and behaviour of polymer or polymer systems (as DDS, scaffolds and bandage) treated with gamma rays.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Dorati
- a Department of Drug Sciences , University of Pavia , Viale Taramelli 12 , 27100 , Pavia , Italy
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Malatesta M, Giagnacovo M, Costanzo M, Conti B, Genta I, Dorati R, Galimberti V, Biggiogera M, Zancanaro C. Diaminobenzidine photoconversion is a suitable tool for tracking the intracellular location of fluorescently labelled nanoparticles at transmission electron microscopy. Eur J Histochem 2012; 56:e20. [PMID: 22688301 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2012.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chitosan-based nanoparticles (NPs) deserve particular attention as suitable drug carriers in the field of pharmaceutics, since they are able to protect the encapsulated drugs and/or improve their efficacy by making them able to cross biological barriers (such as the blood-brain barrier) and reach their intracellular target sites. Understanding the intracellular location of NPs is crucial for designing drug delivery strategies. In this study, fluorescently-labelled chitosan NPs were administered in vitro to a neuronal cell line, and diaminobenzidine (DAB) photoconversion was applied to correlate fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy to precisely describe the NPs intracellular fate. This technique allowed to demonstrate that chitosan NPs easily enter neuronal cells, predominantly by endocytosis; they were found both inside membrane-bounded vesicles and free in the cytosol, and were observed to accumulate around the cell nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Malatesta
- Department of Neurological, Neuropsychological, Morphological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy.
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Malatesta M, Giagnacovo M, Costanzo M, Conti B, Genta I, Dorati R, Galimberti V, Biggiogera M, Zancanaro C. Diaminobenzidine photoconversion is a suitable tool for tracking the intracellular location of fluorescently labelled nanoparticles at transmission electron microscopy. Eur J Histochem 2012. [PMID: 22688301 PMCID: PMC3428969 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2012.e20] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitosan-based nanoparticles (NPs) deserve particular attention as suitable drug carriers in the field of pharmaceutics, since they are able to protect the encapsulated drugs and/or improve their efficacy by making them able to cross biological barriers (such as the blood-brain barrier) and reach their intracellular target sites. Understanding the intracellular location of NPs is crucial for designing drug delivery strategies. In this study, fluorescently-labelled chitosan NPs were administered in vitro to a neuronal cell line, and diaminobenzidine (DAB) photoconversion was applied to correlate fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy to precisely describe the NPs intracellular fate. This technique allowed to demonstrate that chitosan NPs easily enter neuronal cells, predominantly by endocytosis; they were found both inside membrane-bounded vesicles and free in the cytosol, and were observed to accumulate around the cell nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Malatesta
- Department of Neurological, Neuropsychological, Morphological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona
| | - M. Giagnacovo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Cell Biology, University of Pavia
| | - M. Costanzo
- Department of Neurological, Neuropsychological, Morphological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona
| | - B. Conti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia
| | - I. Genta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia
| | - R. Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia
| | - V. Galimberti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Cell Biology, University of Pavia
| | - M. Biggiogera
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Cell Biology, University of Pavia;,CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics, Pavia, Italy
| | - C. Zancanaro
- Department of Neurological, Neuropsychological, Morphological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona
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Leo F, Duranti L, Furia S, Polimeno E, Tavecchio L, Scanagatta P, Conti B, Pastorino U. Prolonged Air Leak After Lung Resection. Does Intrapleural Pressure Matter ? Chest 2011. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.1118859] [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: 11/01/2022] Open
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