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Mangione R, Giallongo C, Duminuco A, La Spina E, Longhitano L, Giallongo S, Tibullo D, Lazzarino G, Saab MW, Sbriglione A, Palumbo GA, Graziani A, Alanazi AM, Di Pietro V, Tavazzi B, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G. Targeted Metabolomics Highlights Dramatic Antioxidant Depletion, Increased Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress and Altered Purine and Pyrimidine Concentrations in Serum of Primary Myelofibrosis Patients. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:490. [PMID: 38671937 PMCID: PMC11047794 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040490] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
To date, little is known concerning the circulating levels of biochemically relevant metabolites (antioxidants, oxidative/nitrosative stress biomarkers, purines, and pyrimidines) in patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF), a rare form of myeloproliferative tumor causing a dramatic decrease in erythropoiesis and angiogenesis. In this study, using a targeted metabolomic approach, serum samples of 22 PMF patients and of 22 control healthy donors were analyzed to quantify the circulating concentrations of hypoxanthine, xanthine, uric acid (as representative purines), uracil, β-pseudouridine, uridine (as representative pyrimidines), reduced glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid (as two of the main water-soluble antioxidants), malondialdehyde, nitrite, nitrate (as oxidative/nitrosative stress biomarkers) and creatinine, using well-established HPLC method for their determination. Results showed that PMF patients have dramatic depletions of both ascorbic acid and GSH (37.3- and 3.81-times lower circulating concentrations, respectively, than those recorded in healthy controls, p < 0.0001), accompanied by significant increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrite + nitrate (4.73- and 1.66-times higher circulating concentrations, respectively, than those recorded in healthy controls, p < 0.0001). Additionally, PMF patients have remarkable alterations of circulating purines, pyrimidines, and creatinine, suggesting potential mitochondrial dysfunctions causing energy metabolism imbalance and consequent increases in these cell energy-related compounds. Overall, these results, besides evidencing previously unknown serum metabolic alterations in PMF patients, suggest that the determination of serum levels of the aforementioned compounds may be useful to evaluate PMF patients on hospital admission for adjunctive therapies aimed at recovering their correct antioxidant status, as well as to monitor patients' status and potential pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Mangione
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.L.)
| | - Cesarina Giallongo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Division of Hematology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.G.); (S.G.); (G.A.P.)
| | - Andrea Duminuco
- Hematology Unit with BMT, A.O.U. Policlinico “G.Rodolico-San Marco”, Via S. Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Enrico La Spina
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Lucia Longhitano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Sebastiano Giallongo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Division of Hematology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.G.); (S.G.); (G.A.P.)
| | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Miriam Wissam Saab
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Arianna Sbriglione
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Giuseppe A. Palumbo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Division of Hematology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (C.G.); (S.G.); (G.A.P.)
| | - Andrea Graziani
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.L.)
| | - Amer M. Alanazi
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.L.)
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (E.L.S.); (L.L.); (D.T.); (G.L.); (M.W.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy; (A.G.); (G.L.)
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D'Amario D, Galli M, Restivo A, Canonico F, Vergallo R, Migliaro S, Trani C, Burzotta F, Aurigemma C, Laborante R, Romagnoli E, Francese F, Ceccarelli I, Borovac JA, Angiolillo DJ, Tavazzi B, Leone AM, Crea F, Patti G, Porto I. Ticagrelor Enhances the Cardioprotective Effects of Ischemic Preconditioning in Stable Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: the TAPER-S Randomized Study. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Pharmacother 2023:pvad092. [PMID: 38006237 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvad092] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticagrelor improves clinical outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome compared with clopidogrel. Ticagrelor also inhibits cell uptake of adenosine and has been associated with cardioprotective effects in animal models. We sought to investigate the potential cardioprotective effects of ticagrelor, as compared with clopidogrel, in stable patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). METHODS AND RESULTS This was a Prospective Randomized Open Blinded End-points (PROBE) trial enrolling stable patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) requiring fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided PCI of intermediate epicardial coronary lesions. ST-segment elevation at intracoronary (IC)-ECG during a two-step sequential coronary balloon inflations in the reference vessel during PCI was used as an indirect marker of cardioprotection induced by ischemic preconditioning. The primary endpoint of the study was the comparison of the delta (Δ) (difference) ST-segment elevation measured by intracoronary-ECG during two-step sequential coronary balloon inflations. RESULTS Fifty-three patients were randomized to either clopidogrel or ticagrelor. The study was stopped earlier because the primary endpoint was met at a pre-specified interim analysis. ΔST-segment elevation was significantly higher in ticagrelor as compared to clopidogrel arms (p<0.0001). Ticagrelor was associated with lower angina score during coronary balloon inflations. There was no difference in coronary microvascular resistance between groups. Adenosine serum concentrations were increased in patients treated with ticagrelor as compared to those treated with clopidogrel. CONCLUSIONS Ticagrelor enhances the cardioprotective effects of ischemic preconditioning compared with clopidogrel in stable patients with CAD undergoing PCI. Further studies are warranted to fully elucidate the mechanisms through which ticagrelor may exert cardioprotective effects in humans. Clinical Trial Registration: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique Identifier: NCT02701140.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico D'Amario
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Mattia Galli
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
| | - Attilio Restivo
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Canonico
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Vergallo
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Migliaro
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Trani
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Burzotta
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Aurigemma
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Renzo Laborante
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Romagnoli
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Francese
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Ceccarelli
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Josip A Borovac
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Split School of Medicine (USSM) and Cardiovascular Diseases Department, University Hospital of Split (KBC Split), Split, Croatia
| | - Dominick J Angiolillo
- Division of Cardiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- UniCamillus - Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio M Leone
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Crea
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Patti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Italo Porto
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy - Italian IRCCS Cardiovascular Network
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche (DIMI), Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
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Cremonesi A, Meili D, Rassi A, Poms M, Tavazzi B, Škopová V, Häberle J, Zikánová M, Hersberger M. Improved diagnostics of purine and pyrimidine metabolism disorders using LC-MS/MS and its clinical application. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:1792-1801. [PMID: 37011034 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-1236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to quantify 41 different purine and pyrimidine (PuPy) metabolites in human urine to allow detection of most known disorders in this metabolic pathway and to determine reference intervals. METHODS Urine samples were diluted with an aqueous buffer to minimize ion suppression. For detection and quantification, liquid chromatography was combined with electrospray ionization, tandem mass spectrometry and multiple reaction monitoring. Transitions and instrument settings were established to quantify 41 analytes and nine stable-isotope-labeled internal standards (IS). RESULTS The established method is precise (intra-day CV: 1.4-6.3%; inter-day CV: 1.3-15.2%), accurate (95.2% external quality control results within ±2 SD and 99.0% within ±3 SD; analyte recoveries: 61-121%), sensitive and has a broad dynamic range to quantify normal and pathological metabolite concentrations within one run. All analytes except aminoimidazole ribonucleoside (AIr) are stable before, during and after sample preparation. Moreover, analytes are not affected by five cycles of freeze-thawing (variation: -5.6 to 7.4%), are stable in thymol (variation: -8.4 to 12.9%) and the lithogenic metabolites also in HCl conserved urine. Age-dependent reference intervals from 3,368 urine samples were determined and used to diagnose 11 new patients within 7 years (total performed tests: 4,206). CONCLUSIONS The presented method and reference intervals enable the quantification of 41 metabolites and the potential diagnosis of up to 25 disorders of PuPy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Cremonesi
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Meili
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anahita Rassi
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Poms
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Václava Škopová
- Research Unit for Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Johannes Häberle
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marie Zikánová
- Research Unit for Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hersberger
- Division of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Mangione R, Pallisco R, Bilotta G, Marroni F, Di Pietro V, Capoccia E, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Bilotta P, Amorini AM. Bilirubin Concentration in Follicular Fluid Is Increased in Infertile Females, Correlates with Decreased Antioxidant Levels and Increased Nitric Oxide Metabolites, and Negatively Affects Outcome Measures of In Vitro Fertilization. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10707. [PMID: 37445884 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310707] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In a previous study, we showed that various low-molecular-weight compounds in follicular fluid (FF) samples of control fertile females (CFF) have different concentrations compared to those found in FF of infertile females (IF), before and after their categorization into different subgroups, according to their clinical diagnosis of infertility. Using the same FF samples of this previous study, we here analyzed the FF concentrations of free and bound bilirubin and compared the results obtained in CFF, IF and the different subgroups of IF (endometriosis, EM, polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS, age-related reduced ovarian reserve, AR-ROR, reduced ovarian reserve, ROR, genetic infertility, GI and unexplained infertility, UI). The results clearly indicated that CFF had lower values of free, bound and total bilirubin compared to the respective values measured in pooled IF. These differences were observed even when IF were categorized into EM, PCOS, AR-ROR, ROR, GI and UI, with EM and PCOS showing the highest values of free, bound and total bilirubin among the six subgroups. Using previous results of ascorbic acid, GSH and nitrite + nitrate measured in the same FF samples of the same FF donors, we found that total bilirubin in FF increased as a function of decreased values of ascorbic acid and GSH, and increased concentrations of nitrite + nitrate. The values of total bilirubin negatively correlated with the clinical parameters of fertilization procedures (number of retrieved oocytes, mature oocytes, fertilized oocytes, blastocysts, high-quality blastocysts) and with clinical pregnancies and birth rates. Bilirubin concentrations in FF were not linked to those found in serum samples of FF donors, thereby strongly suggesting that its over production was due to higher activity of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), the key enzyme responsible for bilirubin formation, in granulosa cells, or cumulus cells or oocytes of IF and ultimately leading to bilirubin accumulation in FF. Since increased activity of HO-1 is one of the main enzymatic intracellular mechanisms of defense towards external insults (oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation), and since we found correlations among bilirubin and oxidative/nitrosative stress in these FF samples, it may reasonably be supposed that bilirubin increase in FF of IF is the result of protracted exposures to the aforementioned insults evidently playing relevant roles in female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Mangione
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Romina Pallisco
- Laboratory of Andrology and Embriology, Alma Res Fertility Center, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Bilotta
- Laboratory of Andrology and Embriology, Alma Res Fertility Center, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Marroni
- Laboratory of Andrology and Embriology, Alma Res Fertility Center, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Aging, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Elena Capoccia
- Laboratory of Andrology and Embriology, Alma Res Fertility Center, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
- LTA-Biotech srl, Viale Don Orione 3D, 95047 Paternò, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Bilotta
- Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alma Res Fertility Center, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Lazzarino G, Mangione R, Saab MW, Tavazzi B, Pittalà A, Signoretti S, Di Pietro V, Lazzarino G, Amorini AM. Traumatic Brain Injury Alters Cerebral Concentrations and Redox States of Coenzymes Q 9 and Q 10 in the Rat. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12050985. [PMID: 37237851 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12050985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, there is no information on the effect of TBI on the changes in brain CoQ levels and possible variations in its redox state. In this study, we induced graded TBIs (mild TBI, mTBI and severe TBI, sTBI) in male rats, using the weight-drop closed-head impact acceleration model of trauma. At 7 days post-injury, CoQ9, CoQ10 and α-tocopherol were measured by HPLC in brain extracts of the injured rats, as well as in those of a group of control sham-operated rats. In the controls, about the 69% of total CoQ was in the form of CoQ9 and the oxidized/reduced ratios of CoQ9 and CoQ10 were, respectively, 1.05 ± 0.07 and 1.42 ± 0.17. No significant changes in these values were observed in rats experiencing mTBI. Conversely, in the brains of sTBI-injured animals, an increase in reduced and a decrease in oxidized CoQ9 produced an oxidized/reduced ratio of 0.81 ± 0.1 (p < 0.001 compared with both controls and mTBI). A concomitant decrease in both reduced and oxidized CoQ10 generated a corresponding oxidized/reduced ratio of 1.38 ± 0.23 (p < 0.001 compared with both controls and mTBI). An overall decrease in the concentration of the total CoQ pool was also found in sTBI-injured rats (p < 0.001 compared with both controls and mTBI). Concerning α-tocopherol, whilst no differences compared with the controls were found in mTBI animals, a significant decrease was observed in rats experiencing sTBI (p < 0.01 compared with both controls and mTBI). Besides suggesting potentially different functions and intracellular distributions of CoQ9 and CoQ10 in rat brain mitochondria, these results demonstrate, for the first time to the best of knowledge, that sTBI alters the levels and redox states of CoQ9 and CoQ10, thus adding a new explanation to the mitochondrial impairment affecting ETC, OXPHOS, energy supply and antioxidant defenses following sTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Lazzarino
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Renata Mangione
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Wissam Saab
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pittalà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
- Department of Emergency and Urgency, Division of Neurosurgery, S. Eugenio/CTO Hospital, A.S.L. Roma2 Piazzale dell'Umanesimo 10, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
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6
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Pallisco R, Lazzarino G, Bilotta G, Marroni F, Mangione R, Saab MW, Brundo MV, Pittalà A, Caruso G, Capoccia E, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Bilotta P, Amorini AM. Metabolic Signature of Energy Metabolism Alterations and Excess Nitric Oxide Production in Culture Media Correlate with Low Human Embryo Quality and Unsuccessful Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010890. [PMID: 36614333 PMCID: PMC9821643 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010890] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Notwithstanding the great improvement of ART, the overall rate of successful pregnancies from implanted human embryos is definitely low. The current routine embryo quality assessment is performed only through morphological criteria, which has poor predictive capacity since only a minor percentage of those in the highest class give rise to successful pregnancy. Previous studies highlighted the potentiality of the analysis of metabolites in human embryo culture media, useful for the selection of embryos for implantation. In the present study, we analyzed in blind 66 human embryo culture media at 5 days after in vitro fertilization with the aim of quantifying compounds released by cell metabolism that were not present as normal constituents of the human embryo growth media, including purines, pyrimidines, nitrite, and nitrate. Only some purines were detectable (hypoxanthine and uric acid) in the majority of samples, while nitrite and nitrate were always detectable. When matching biochemical results with morphological evaluation, it was found that low grade embryos (n = 12) had significantly higher levels of all the compounds of interest. Moreover, when matching biochemical results according to successful (n = 17) or unsuccessful (n = 25) pregnancy, it was found that human embryos from the latter group released higher concentrations of hypoxanthine, uric acid, nitrite, and nitrate in the culture media. Additionally, those embryos that developed into successful pregnancies were all associated with the birth of healthy newborns. These results, although carried out on a relatively low number of samples, indicate that the analysis of the aforementioned compounds in the culture media of human embryos is a potentially useful tool for the selection of embryos for implantation, possibly leading to an increase in the overall rate of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Pallisco
- Alma Res Fertility Center, Laboratory of Andrology and Embriology, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Bilotta
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Marroni
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Renata Mangione
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Wissam Saab
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Violetta Brundo
- Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Via Androne 81, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pittalà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Elena Capoccia
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
- LTA-Biotech srl, Viale Don Orione 3D, 95047 Paternò, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Alma Res Fertility Center, Laboratory of Andrology and Embriology, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Bilotta
- Alma Res Fertility Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Via Parenzo 12, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
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7
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Logan A, Belli A, Di Pietro V, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Mangione R, Lazzarino G, Morano I, Qureshi O, Bruce L, Barnes NM, Nagy Z. The mechanism of action of a novel neuroprotective low molecular weight dextran sulphate: New platform therapy for neurodegenerative diseases like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:983853. [PMID: 36110516 PMCID: PMC9468270 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.983853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute and chronic neurodegenerative diseases represent an immense socioeconomic burden that drives the need for new disease modifying drugs. Common pathogenic mechanisms in these diseases are evident, suggesting that a platform neuroprotective therapy may offer effective treatments. Here we present evidence for the mode of pharmacological action of a novel neuroprotective low molecular weight dextran sulphate drug called ILB®. The working hypothesis was that ILB® acts via the activation of heparin-binding growth factors (HBGF). Methods: Pre-clinical and clinical (healthy people and patients with ALS) in vitro and in vivo studies evaluated the mode of action of ILB®. In vitro binding studies, functional assays and gene expression analyses were followed by the assessment of the drug effects in an animal model of severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) using gene expression studies followed by functional analysis. Clinical data, to assess the hypothesized mode of action, are also presented from early phase clinical trials. Results: ILB® lengthened APTT time, acted as a competitive inhibitor for HGF-Glypican-3 binding, effected pulse release of heparin-binding growth factors (HBGF) into the circulation and modulated growth factor signaling pathways. Gene expression analysis demonstrated substantial similarities in the functional dysregulation induced by sTBI and various human neurodegenerative conditions and supported a cascading effect of ILB® on growth factor activation, followed by gene expression changes with profound beneficial effect on molecular and cellular functions affected by these diseases. The transcriptional signature of ILB® relevant to cell survival, inflammation, glutamate signaling, metabolism and synaptogenesis, are consistent with the activation of neuroprotective growth factors as was the ability of ILB® to elevate circulating levels of HGF in animal models and humans. Conclusion: ILB® releases, redistributes and modulates the bioactivity of HBGF that target disease compromised nervous tissues to initiate a cascade of transcriptional, metabolic and immunological effects that control glutamate toxicity, normalize tissue bioenergetics, and resolve inflammation to improve tissue function. This unique mechanism of action mobilizes and modulates naturally occurring tissue repair mechanisms to restore cellular homeostasis and function. The identified pharmacological impact of ILB® supports the potential to treat various acute and chronic neurodegenerative disease, including sTBI and ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Logan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Axolotl Consulting Ltd., Droitwich, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Ann Logan,
| | - Antonio Belli
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Renata Mangione
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Nicholas M. Barnes
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Zsuzsanna Nagy
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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8
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Logan A, Nagy Z, Barnes NM, Belli A, Di Pietro V, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Lazzarino G, Bruce L, Persson LI. A phase II open label clinical study of the safety, tolerability and efficacy of ILB® for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267183. [PMID: 35613082 PMCID: PMC9132272 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an invariably lethal progressive disease, causing degeneration of neurons and muscle. No current treatment halts or reverses disease advance. This single arm, open label, clinical trial in patients with ALS investigated the safety and tolerability of a novel modified low molecular weight dextran sulphate (LMW-DS, named ILB®) previously proven safe for use in healthy volunteers and shown to exert potent neurotrophic effects in pre-clinical studies. Secondary endpoints relate to efficacy and exploratory biomarkers. Methods Thirteen patients with ALS were treated with 5 weekly subcutaneous injections of ILB®. Safety and efficacy outcome measures were recorded weekly during treatment and at regular intervals for a further 70 days. Functional and laboratory biomarkers were assessed before, during and after treatment. Results No deaths, serious adverse events or participant withdrawals occurred during or after ILB® treatment and no significant drug-related changes in blood safety markers were evident, demonstrating safety and tolerability of the drug in this cohort of patients with ALS. The PK of ILB® in patients with ALS was similar to that seen in healthy controls. The ILB® injection elicited a transient elevation of plasma Hepatocyte Growth Factor, a neurotrophic and myogenic growth factor. Following the ILB® injections patients reported increased vitality, decreased spasticity and increased mobility. The ALSFRS-R rating improved from 36.31 ± 6.66 to 38.77 ± 6.44 and the Norris rating also improved from 70.61 ± 13.91 to 77.85 ± 14.24 by Day 36. The improvement of functions was associated with a decrease in muscle atrophy biomarkers. These therapeutic benefits decreased 3–4 weeks after the last dosage. Conclusions This pilot clinical study demonstrates safety and tolerability of ILB® in patients with ALS. The exploratory biomarker and functional measures must be cautiously interpreted but suggest clinical benefit and have a bearing on the mechanism of action of ILB®. The results support the drug’s potential as the first disease modifying treatment for patients with ALS. Trial registration EudraCT 2017-005065-47.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Logan
- Axolotl Consulting Ltd, Droitwich, United Kingdom
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Zsuzsanna Nagy
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas M. Barnes
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Belli
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Lennart I. Persson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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9
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Puma DDL, Ripoli C, Puliatti G, Pastore F, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Arancio O, Piacentini R, Grassi C. Extracellular tau oligomers affect extracellular glutamate handling by astrocytes through downregulation of GLT-1 expression and impairment of NKA1A2 function. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2022; 48:e12811. [PMID: 35274343 PMCID: PMC9262805 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Several studies reported that astrocytes support neuronal communication by the release of gliotransmitters, including ATP and glutamate. Astrocytes also play a fundamental role in buffering extracellular glutamate in the synaptic cleft, thus limiting the risk of excitotoxicity in neurons. We previously demonstrated that extracellular tau oligomers (ex-oTau), by specifically targeting astrocytes, affect glutamate-dependent synaptic transmission via a reduction in gliotransmitter release. The aim of this work was to determine if ex-oTau also impair the ability of astrocytes to uptake extracellular glutamate, thus further contributing to ex-oTau-dependent neuronal dysfunction. METHODS Primary cultures of astrocytes and organotypic brain slices were exposed to ex-oTau (200 nM) for 1 hour. Extracellular glutamate buffering by astrocytes was studied by: Na+ imaging; electrophysiological recordings; high-performance liquid chromatography; Western blot and immunofluorescence. Experimental paradigms avoiding ex-oTau internalization (i.e., heparin pre-treatment and amyloid precursor protein knockout astrocytes) were used to dissect intracellular vs. extracellular effects of oTau. RESULTS Ex-oTau uploading in astrocytes significantly affected glutamate-transporter-1 expression and function, thus impinging on glutamate buffering activity. Ex-oTau also reduced Na-K-ATPase activity because of pump mislocalization on the plasma membrane, with no significant changes in expression. This effect was independent of oTau internalization and it caused Na+ overload and membrane depolarization in ex-oTau-targeted astrocytes. CONCLUSIONS Ex-oTau exerted a complex action on astrocytes, at both intracellular and extracellular levels. The net effect was dysregulated glutamate signalling in terms of both release and uptake that relied on reduced expression of glutamate-transporter-1, altered function and localization of NKA1A1, and NKA1A2. Consequently, Na+ gradients and all Na+ -dependent transports were affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Donatella Li Puma
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristian Ripoli
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Puliatti
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pastore
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- UniCamillus Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, and Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Roberto Piacentini
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Grassi
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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10
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Lazzarino G, Mangione R, Belli A, Di Pietro V, Nagy Z, Barnes NM, Bruce L, Ropero BM, Persson LI, Manca B, Saab MW, Amorini AM, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Logan A. ILB ® Attenuates Clinical Symptoms and Serum Biomarkers of Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. J Pers Med 2021; 11:794. [PMID: 34442438 PMCID: PMC8399678 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11080794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative/nitrosative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), an invariably fatal progressive neurodegenerative disease. Here, as an exploratory arm of a phase II clinical trial (EudraCT Number 2017-005065-47), we used high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC) to investigate changes in the metabolic profiles of serum from ALS patients treated weekly for 4 weeks with a repeated sub-cutaneous dose of 1 mg/kg of a proprietary low molecular weight dextran sulphate, called ILB®. A significant normalization of the serum levels of several key metabolites was observed over the treatment period, including N-acetylaspartate (NAA), oxypurines, biomarkers of oxidative/nitrosative stress and antioxidants. An improved serum metabolic profile was accompanied by significant amelioration of the patients' clinical conditions, indicating a response to ILB® treatment that appears to be mediated by improvement of tissue bioenergetics, decrease of oxidative/nitrosative stress and attenuation of (neuro)inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy;
| | - Renata Mangione
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Belli
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (A.B.); (V.D.P.); (Z.N.); (N.M.B.)
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (A.B.); (V.D.P.); (Z.N.); (N.M.B.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Nagy
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (A.B.); (V.D.P.); (Z.N.); (N.M.B.)
| | - Nicholas M. Barnes
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (A.B.); (V.D.P.); (Z.N.); (N.M.B.)
| | | | - Bernardo M. Ropero
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 90 Gothenburg, Sweden; (B.M.R.); (L.I.P.)
| | - Lennart I. Persson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 90 Gothenburg, Sweden; (B.M.R.); (L.I.P.)
| | - Benedetta Manca
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Miriam Wissam Saab
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.W.S.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Angela M. Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.W.S.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.W.S.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Ann Logan
- Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- Axolotl Consulting Ltd., Droitwich WR9 0JS, UK
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11
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Caruso G, Fresta CG, Costantino A, Lazzarino G, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Lunte SM, Dhar P, Gulisano M, Caraci F. Lung Surfactant Decreases Biochemical Alterations and Oxidative Stress Induced by a Sub-Toxic Concentration of Carbon Nanoparticles in Alveolar Epithelial and Microglial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2694. [PMID: 33800016 PMCID: PMC7962095 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052694] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbon-based nanomaterials are nowadays attracting lots of attention, in particular in the biomedical field, where they find a wide spectrum of applications, including, just to name a few, the drug delivery to specific tumor cells and the improvement of non-invasive imaging methods. Nanoparticles inhaled during breathing accumulate in the lung alveoli, where they interact and are covered with lung surfactants. We recently demonstrated that an apparently non-toxic concentration of engineered carbon nanodiamonds (ECNs) is able to induce oxidative/nitrosative stress, imbalance of energy metabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction in microglial and alveolar basal epithelial cells. Therefore, the complete understanding of their "real" biosafety, along with their possible combination with other molecules mimicking the in vivo milieu, possibly allowing the modulation of their side effects becomes of utmost importance. Based on the above, the focus of the present work was to investigate whether the cellular alterations induced by an apparently non-toxic concentration of ECNs could be counteracted by their incorporation into a synthetic lung surfactant (DPPC:POPG in 7:3 molar ratio). By using two different cell lines (alveolar (A549) and microglial (BV-2)), we were able to show that the presence of lung surfactant decreased the production of ECNs-induced nitric oxide, total reactive oxygen species, and malondialdehyde, as well as counteracted reduced glutathione depletion (A549 cells only), ameliorated cell energy status (ATP and total pool of nicotinic coenzymes), and improved mitochondrial phosphorylating capacity. Overall, our results on alveolar basal epithelial and microglial cell lines clearly depict the benefits coming from the incorporation of carbon nanoparticles into a lung surfactant (mimicking its in vivo lipid composition), creating the basis for the investigation of this combination in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Claudia G. Fresta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (C.G.F.); (A.M.A.); (G.L.)
| | - Angelita Costantino
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnology, Area di Ricerca, Padriciano, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy;
| | - Angela M. Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (C.G.F.); (A.M.A.); (G.L.)
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (C.G.F.); (A.M.A.); (G.L.)
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Department of Basic Biotechnological Sciences, Intensive and Perioperative Clinics, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Susan M. Lunte
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA;
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Prajnaparamita Dhar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA;
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-7576, USA
| | - Massimo Gulisano
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnology, Area di Ricerca, Padriciano, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre-IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy
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12
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Li Puma DD, Marcocci ME, Lazzarino G, De Chiara G, Tavazzi B, Palamara AT, Piacentini R, Grassi C. Ca 2+ -dependent release of ATP from astrocytes affects herpes simplex virus type 1 infection of neurons. Glia 2020; 69:201-215. [PMID: 32818313 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes provide metabolic support for neurons and modulate their functions by releasing a plethora of neuroactive molecules diffusing to neighboring cells. Here we report that astrocytes also play a role in cortical neurons' vulnerability to Herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) infection through the release of extracellular ATP. We found that the interaction of HSV-1 with heparan sulfate proteoglycans expressed on the plasma membrane of astrocytes triggered phospholipase C-mediated IP3 -dependent intracellular Ca2+ transients causing extracellular release of ATP. ATP binds membrane purinergic P2 receptors (P2Rs) of both neurons and astrocytes causing an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration that activates the Glycogen Synthase Kinase (GSK)-3β, whose action is necessary for HSV-1 entry/replication in these cells. Indeed, in co-cultures of neurons and astrocytes HSV-1-infected neurons were only found in proximity of infected astrocytes releasing ATP, whereas in the presence of fluorocitrate, an inhibitor of astrocyte metabolism, switching-off the HSV-1-induced ATP release, very few neurons were infected. The addition of exogenous ATP, mimicking that released by astrocytes after HSV-1 challenge, restored the ability of HSV-1 to infect neurons co-cultured with metabolically-inhibited astrocytes. The ATP-activated, P2R-mediated, and GSK-3-dependent molecular pathway underlying HSV-1 infection is likely shared by neurons and astrocytes, given that the blockade of either P2Rs or GSK-3 activation inhibited infection of both cell types. These results add a new layer of information to our understanding of the critical role played by astrocytes in regulating neuronal functions and their response to noxious stimuli including microbial agents via Ca2+ -dependent release of neuroactive molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Donatella Li Puma
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Marcocci
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus - Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna De Chiara
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Basic biotechnological sciences, intensivological and perioperative clinics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Teresa Palamara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy.,San Raffaele Pisana, IRCCS, Telematic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Piacentini
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Grassi
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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13
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Di Pietro V, Yakoub KM, Caruso G, Lazzarino G, Signoretti S, Barbey AK, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Belli A, Amorini AM. Antioxidant Therapies in Traumatic Brain Injury. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9030260. [PMID: 32235799 PMCID: PMC7139349 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9030260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to a multiplicity of causes provoking traumatic brain injury (TBI), TBI is a highly heterogeneous pathology, characterized by high mortality and disability rates. TBI is an acute neurodegenerative event, potentially and unpredictably evolving into sub-chronic and chronic neurodegenerative events, with transient or permanent neurologic, cognitive, and motor deficits, for which no valid standardized therapies are available. A vast body of literature demonstrates that TBI-induced oxidative/nitrosative stress is involved in the development of both acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders. Cellular defenses against this phenomenon are largely dependent on low molecular weight antioxidants, most of which are consumed with diet or as nutraceutical supplements. A large number of studies have evaluated the efficacy of antioxidant administration to decrease TBI-associated damage in various animal TBI models and in a limited number of clinical trials. Points of weakness of preclinical studies are represented by the large variability in the TBI model adopted, in the antioxidant tested, in the timing, dosages, and routes of administration used, and in the variety of molecular and/or neurocognitive parameters evaluated. The analysis of the very few clinical studies does not allow strong conclusions to be drawn on the real effectiveness of antioxidant administration to TBI patients. Standardizing TBI models and different experimental conditions, as well as testing the efficacy of administration of a cocktail of antioxidants rather than only one, should be mandatory. According to some promising clinical results, it appears that sports-related concussion is probably the best type of TBI to test the benefits of antioxidant administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Aging, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (V.D.P.); (K.M.Y.)
- NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- The Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Kamal M. Yakoub
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Aging, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (V.D.P.); (K.M.Y.)
- NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Laboratories, Oasi Research Institute – IRCCS, Via Conte Ruggero 73, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy;
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy;
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- UOC Neurochirurgia, ASL Roma2, S. Eugenio Hospital, Piazzale dell’Umanesimo 10, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Aron K. Barbey
- The Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F.Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of Scienze di laboratorio e infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (B.T.); (G.L.); (A.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S.Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
- Correspondence: (B.T.); (G.L.); (A.B.)
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Aging, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (V.D.P.); (K.M.Y.)
- NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Correspondence: (B.T.); (G.L.); (A.B.)
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via S.Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
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14
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Fresta CG, Fidilio A, Lazzarino G, Musso N, Grasso M, Merlo S, Amorini AM, Bucolo C, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Lunte SM, Caraci F, Caruso G. Modulation of Pro-Oxidant and Pro-Inflammatory Activities of M1 Macrophages by the Natural Dipeptide Carnosine. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030776. [PMID: 31991717 PMCID: PMC7038063 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Carnosine is a natural endogenous dipeptide widely distributed in mammalian tissues, existing at particularly high concentrations in the muscles and brain and possesses well-characterized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In an in vitro model of macrophage activation, induced by lipopolysaccharide + interferon-gamma (LPS + IFN-γ), we here report the ability of carnosine to modulate pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory activities of macrophages, representing the primary cell type that is activated as a part of the immune response. An ample set of parameters aimed to evaluate cytotoxicity (MTT assay), energy metabolism (HPLC), gene expressions (high-throughput real-time PCR (qRT-PCR)), protein expressions (western blot) and nitric oxide production (qRT-PCR and HPLC), was used to assess the effects of carnosine on activated macrophages challenged with a non cytotoxic LPS (100 ng/mL) + IFN-γ (600 U/mL) concentration. In our experimental model, main carnosine beneficial effects were: (1) the modulation of nitric oxide production and metabolism; (2) the amelioration of the macrophage energy state; (3) the decrease of the expressions of pro-oxidant enzymes (Nox-2, Cox-2) and of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde; (4) the restoration and/or increase of the expressions of antioxidant enzymes (Gpx1, SOD-2 and Cat); (5) the increase of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and the down-regulation of the expressions of interleukins 1β and 6 (IL-1β and IL-6) and 6) the increase of the expressions of Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). According to these results carnosine is worth being tested in the treatment of diseases characterized by elevated levels of oxidative stress and inflammation (atherosclerosis, cancer, depression, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases).
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia G. Fresta
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA; (C.G.F.); (S.M.L.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Annamaria Fidilio
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.F.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus—Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy;
| | - Nicolò Musso
- Bio-nanotech Research and Innovation Tower (BRIT), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Margherita Grasso
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.F.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy
| | - Sara Merlo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.M.); (A.M.A.); (C.B.)
| | - Angela M. Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.M.); (A.M.A.); (C.B.)
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.M.); (A.M.A.); (C.B.)
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.M.); (A.M.A.); (C.B.)
- Correspondence: (G.L.); (G.C.)
| | - Susan M. Lunte
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA; (C.G.F.); (S.M.L.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.F.); (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy
- Correspondence: (G.L.); (G.C.)
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15
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Ciccarone F, Di Leo L, Lazzarino G, Maulucci G, Di Giacinto F, Tavazzi B, Ciriolo MR. Aconitase 2 inhibits the proliferation of MCF-7 cells promoting mitochondrial oxidative metabolism and ROS/FoxO1-mediated autophagic response. Br J Cancer 2019; 122:182-193. [PMID: 31819175 PMCID: PMC7051954 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-019-0641-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Deregulation of the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) due to mutations in specific enzymes or defective aerobic metabolism is associated with tumour growth. Aconitase 2 (ACO2) participates in the TCA cycle by converting citrate to isocitrate, but no evident demonstrations of its involvement in cancer metabolism have been provided so far. Methods Biochemical assays coupled with molecular biology, in silico, and cellular tools were applied to circumstantiate the impact of ACO2 in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 metabolism. Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) of NADH was used to corroborate the changes in bioenergetics. Results We showed that ACO2 levels are decreased in breast cancer cell lines and human tumour biopsies. We generated ACO2- overexpressing MCF-7 cells and employed comparative analyses to identify metabolic adaptations. We found that increased ACO2 expression impairs cell proliferation and commits cells to redirect pyruvate to mitochondria, which weakens Warburg-like bioenergetic features. We also demonstrated that the enhancement of oxidative metabolism was supported by mitochondrial biogenesis and FoxO1-mediated autophagy/mitophagy that sustains the increased ROS burst. Conclusions This work identifies ACO2 as a relevant gene in cancer metabolic rewiring of MCF-7 cells, promoting a different utilisation of pyruvate and revealing the potential metabolic vulnerability of ACO2-associated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Ciccarone
- Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Luca Di Leo
- Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, Rome, 00133, Italy.,Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Unit of Cell Stress and Survival, Strandboulevarden 49, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maulucci
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Physics, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavio Di Giacinto
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Physics, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Ciriolo
- Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, Rome, 00133, Italy. .,IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Via della Pisana 235, Rome, 00163, Italy.
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16
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Tamburrano A, Tavazzi B, Callà CAM, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Vincenti S, Zottola T, Campagna MC, Moscato U, Laurenti P. Biochemical and nutritional characteristics of buffalo meat and potential implications on human health for a personalized nutrition. Ital J Food Saf 2019; 8:8317. [PMID: 31632933 PMCID: PMC6784592 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2019.8317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The human consumption of food animal products is the main topic of an important debate among professionals in this sector: dietologists, dietitians and nutritional biologists. The red meat provides all the essential amino acids, bioavailable iron, zinc, calcium, lipids and B-group vitamins. A valid alternative to beef could be the buffalo meat. Italy is the largest European producer of buffalo meat and derivatives. The high nutritional characteristics of buffalo meat make it suitable to be included in the Mediterranean diet to customize it in relation to the needs and conditions of the population. Polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acids ratio can be influenced by diet, breed and type of breeding, but muscle tissue fat percentage is the main factor in determining a favorable fatty acid composition. This review focuses on the biochemical and nutritional characteristics of the buffalo meat (content of fats, cholesterol, amino acids, vitamins and minerals), explaining their variability depending on the different breeds, and the favorable implications on the human health. These results suggest that buffalo meat can be a healthier alternative to beef, not only for healthy people in particular physiological conditions (i.e. pregnancy), but also for persons at risk for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, thus achieving the goal of a personalized nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome
- University Hospital A. Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome
| | | | | | | | | | - Tiziana Zottola
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Lazio e Toscana “M. Aleandri", Latina, Italy
| | | | - Umberto Moscato
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome
- University Hospital A. Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome
| | - Patrizia Laurenti
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome
- University Hospital A. Gemelli - IRCCS, Rome
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17
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Mastrangelo M, Alfonsi C, Screpanti I, Masuelli L, Tavazzi B, Mei D, Giannotti F, Guerrini R, Leuzzi V. Broadening phenotype of adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency: A novel clinical pattern resembling neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2019; 21:100502. [PMID: 31467849 PMCID: PMC6713842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2019.100502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a 7-year-old boy presenting with a developmental encephalopathy, severe epilepsy, retinopathy with salt and pepper fundus, and ultrastructural skin alterations resembling a neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Whole exome-sequencing detected biallelic variants in the ADSL gene (c.65C > T [p.(Ala22Val)] and c.340 T > C [p.(Tyr114His)]). The increase of SAICAR and S-Ado in blood and urine was consistent with the pattern of adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency (OMIM 103050). An unusual increase of AICAR, that was due to a residual ADSL enzyme activity of about 28%, was also detected. Neither salt and pepper retinopathy nor ultrastructural skin alterations had been reported in ADSL deficiency before. Impaired purinergic signaling inside the retina is probably involved in visual failure. Ultrastructural alterations in fibroblasts suggest a possible damage of autophagic processes, whose role in the pathogenesis of neurological dysfunction deserves further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mastrangelo
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Alfonsi
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry Catholic University, Rome
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Italy
| | - Davide Mei
- Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Excellence Centre, Children's Hospital Anna Meyer, Florence, Italy
| | - Flavia Giannotti
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Renzo Guerrini
- Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Excellence Centre, Children's Hospital Anna Meyer, Florence, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Leuzzi
- Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Corresponding author at: Division of Child Neurology and Infantile Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza- University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00141 Roma, Italy.
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18
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Caruso G, Fresta CG, Fidilio A, O'Donnell F, Musso N, Lazzarino G, Grasso M, Amorini AM, Tascedda F, Bucolo C, Drago F, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Lunte SM, Caraci F. Carnosine Decreases PMA-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Murine Macrophages. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:E281. [PMID: 31390749 PMCID: PMC6720685 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8080281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Carnosine is an endogenous dipeptide composed of β-alanine and L-histidine. This naturally occurring molecule is present at high concentrations in several mammalian excitable tissues such as muscles and brain, while it can be found at low concentrations in a few invertebrates. Carnosine has been shown to be involved in different cellular defense mechanisms including the inhibition of protein cross-linking, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species detoxification as well as the counteraction of inflammation. As a part of the immune response, macrophages are the primary cell type that is activated. These cells play a crucial role in many diseases associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, including atherosclerosis, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, carnosine was first tested for its ability to counteract oxidative stress. In our experimental model, represented by RAW 264.7 macrophages challenged with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) inhibitors, carnosine was able to decrease the intracellular concentration of superoxide anions (O2-•) as well as the expression of Nox1 and Nox2 enzyme genes. This carnosine antioxidant activity was accompanied by the attenuation of the PMA-induced Akt phosphorylation, the down-regulation of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNAs, and the up-regulation of the expression of the anti-inflammatory mediators IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1. Additionally, when carnosine was used at the highest dose (20 mM), there was a generalized amelioration of the macrophage energy state, evaluated through the increase both in the total nucleoside triphosphate concentrations and the sum of the pool of intracellular nicotinic coenzymes. Finally, carnosine was able to decrease the oxidized (NADP+)/reduced (NADPH) ratio of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate in a concentration dependent manner, indicating a strong inhibitory effect of this molecule towards the main source of reactive oxygen species in macrophages. Our data suggest a multimodal mechanism of action of carnosine underlying its beneficial effects on macrophage cells under oxidative stress and inflammation conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Laboratories, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy.
| | - Claudia G Fresta
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Annamaria Fidilio
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Fergal O'Donnell
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, D09W6Y4 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicolò Musso
- Bio-Nanotech Research and Innovation Tower (BRIT), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Margherita Grasso
- Department of Laboratories, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Angela M Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Fabio Tascedda
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Susan M Lunte
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Laboratories, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
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19
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Yakoub KM, Lazzarino G, Amorini AM, Caruso G, Scazzone C, Ciaccio M, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Belli A, Di Pietro V. Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphate Protects Hippocampal Rat Slices from NMDA Excitotoxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092239. [PMID: 31067671 PMCID: PMC6540300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Effects of fructose 1,6-bisphosphate (F-1,6-P2) towards N-methyl-d-aspartate NMDA excitotoxicity were evaluated in rat organotypic hippocampal brain slice cultures (OHSC) challenged for 3 h with 30 μM NMDA, followed by incubations (24, 48, and 72 h) without (controls) and with F-1,6-P2 (0.5, 1 or 1.5 mM). At each time, cell necrosis was determined by measuring LDH in the medium. Energy metabolism was evaluated by measuring ATP, GTP, ADP, AMP, and ATP catabolites (nucleosides and oxypurines) in deproteinized OHSC extracts. Gene expressions of phosphofructokinase, aldolase, and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase were also measured. F-1,6-P2 dose-dependently decreased NMDA excitotoxicity, abolishing cell necrosis at the highest concentration tested (1.5 mM). Additionally, F-1,6-P2 attenuated cell energy imbalance caused by NMDA, ameliorating the mitochondrial phosphorylating capacity (increase in ATP/ADP ratio) Metabolism normalization occurred when using 1.5 mM F-1,6-P2. Remarkable increase in expressions of phosphofructokinase, aldolase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (up to 25 times over the values of controls) was also observed. Since this phenomenon was recorded even in OHSC treated with F-1,6-P2 with no prior challenge with NMDA, it is highly conceivable that F-1,6-P2 can enter into intact cerebral cells producing significant benefits on energy metabolism. These effects are possibly mediated by changes occurring at the gene level, thus opening new perspectives for F-1,6-P2 application as a useful adjuvant to rescue mitochondrial metabolism of cerebral cells under stressing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal M Yakoub
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK.
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy.
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Angela M Amorini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Oasi Research Institute⁻IRCCS, Via Conte Ruggero 73, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy.
| | - Concetta Scazzone
- Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Marcello Ciaccio
- Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy.
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK.
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Ophthalmology Research Group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK.
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20
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Lazzarino G, Listorti I, Muzii L, Amorini AM, Longo S, Di Stasio E, Caruso G, D’Urso S, Puglia I, Pisani G, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Bilotta P. Low-molecular weight compounds in human seminal plasma as potential biomarkers of male infertility. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1817-1828. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, and Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Listorti
- Alma Res Fertility Centre, Centro di Fecondazione Assistita Alma Res, Via Parenzo 12, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Muzii
- Alma Res Fertility Centre, Centro di Fecondazione Assistita Alma Res, Via Parenzo 12, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, and Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Longo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, and Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy
- LTA-Biotech srl, Viale Don Orione, 3D, Paternò, Catania, Italy
| | - Enrico Di Stasio
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, and Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, Via Conte Ruggero, 73, Troina, Enna, Italy
| | - Serafina D’Urso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - Ilaria Puglia
- Faculty of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pisani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Camillo-Forlanini, Cir.ne Gianicolense 87, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
- LTA-Biotech srl, Viale Don Orione, 3D, Paternò, Catania, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, and Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Bilotta
- Alma Res Fertility Centre, Centro di Fecondazione Assistita Alma Res, Via Parenzo 12, Rome, Italy
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21
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Fresta CG, Chakraborty A, Wijesinghe MB, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Lunte SM, Caraci F, Dhar P, Caruso G. Non-toxic engineered carbon nanodiamond concentrations induce oxidative/nitrosative stress, imbalance of energy metabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction in microglial and alveolar basal epithelial cells. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:245. [PMID: 29445138 PMCID: PMC5833425 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0280-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Engineered nanoparticles are finding a wide spectrum of biomedical applications, including drug delivery and capacity to trigger cytotoxic phenomena, potentially useful against tumor cells. The full understanding of their biosafety and interactions with cell processes is mandatory. Using microglial (BV-2) and alveolar basal epithelial (A549) cells, in this study we determined the effects of engineered carbon nanodiamonds (ECNs) on cell viability, nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, as well as on energy metabolism. Particularly, we initially measured decrease in cell viability as a function of increasing ECNs doses, finding similar cytotoxic ECN effects in the two cell lines. Subsequently, using apparently non-cytotoxic ECN concentrations (2 µg/mL causing decrease in cell number < 5%) we determined NO and ROS production, and measured the concentrations of compounds related to energy metabolism, mitochondrial functions, oxido-reductive reactions, and antioxidant defences. We found that in both cell lines non-cytotoxic ECN concentrations increased NO and ROS production with sustained oxidative/nitrosative stress, and caused energy metabolism imbalance (decrease in high energy phosphates and nicotinic coenzymes) and mitochondrial malfunctioning (decrease in ATP/ADP ratio).These results underline the importance to deeply investigate the molecular and biochemical changes occurring upon the interaction of ECNs (and nanoparticles in general) with living cells, even at apparently non-toxic concentration. Since the use of ECNs in biomedical field is attracting increasing attention the complete evaluation of their biosafety, toxicity and/or possible side effects both in vitro and in vivo is mandatory before these highly promising tools might find the correct application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia G Fresta
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Aishik Chakraborty
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Manjula B Wijesinghe
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Angela M Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, 94018, Catania, Italy.
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Susan M Lunte
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA.,Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS, 94018, Troina, Italy.,Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Prajnaparamita Dhar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA. .,Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, KS, USA.
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22
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Lazzarino G, Longo S, Amorini AM, Di Pietro V, D’Urso S, Lazzarino G, Belli A, Tavazzi B. Single-step preparation of selected biological fluids for the high performance liquid chromatographic analysis of fat-soluble vitamins and antioxidants. J Chromatogr A 2017; 1527:43-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2017.10.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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23
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Sciandra F, Scicchitano BM, Signorino G, Bigotti MG, Tavazzi B, Lombardi F, Bozzi M, Sica G, Giardina B, Blaess S, Brancaccio A. Evaluation of the effect of a floxed Neo cassette within the dystroglycan (Dag1) gene. BMC Res Notes 2017; 10:601. [PMID: 29157305 PMCID: PMC5696793 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2926-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Dystroglycan (DG) is an adhesion complex formed by two subunits, α-DG and β-DG. In skeletal muscle, DG is part of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex that is crucial for sarcolemma stability and it is involved in a plethora of muscular dystrophy phenotypes. Due to the important role played by DG in skeletal muscle stability as well as in a wide variety of other tissues including brain and the peripheral nervous system, it is essential to investigate its genetic assembly and transcriptional regulation. Results Herein, we analyze the effect of the insertion of a floxed neomycin (Neo) cassette within the 3′ portion of the universally conserved IG1-intron of the DG gene (Dag1). We analyzed the transcription level of Dag1 and the expression of the DG protein in skeletal muscle of targeted mice compared to wild-type and we did not find any alterations that might be attributed to the gene targeting. However, we found an increase of the cross-sectional areas of tibialis anterior that might have some physiological significance that needs to be assessed in the future. Moreover, in targeted mice the skeletal muscle morphology and its regeneration capacity after injury did not show any evident alterations. We confirmed that the targeting of Dag1 with a floxed Neo-cassette did not produce any gross undesired effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sciandra
- Istituto di Chimica del Riconoscimento Molecolare (CNR), c/o Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Giulia Signorino
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Lombardi
- Istituto di Clinica delle Malattie Infettive, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Bozzi
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Gigliola Sica
- Istituto di Istologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Giardina
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Sandra Blaess
- Neurodevelopmental Genetics, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, Life and Brain Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andrea Brancaccio
- Istituto di Chimica del Riconoscimento Molecolare (CNR), c/o Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy. .,School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK.
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24
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Di Pietro V, Lazzarino G, Amorini AM, Signoretti S, Hill LJ, Porto E, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Belli A. Fusion or Fission: The Destiny of Mitochondria In Traumatic Brain Injury of Different Severities. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9189. [PMID: 28835707 PMCID: PMC5569027 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09587-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dynamics are regulated by a complex system of proteins representing the mitochondrial quality control (MQC). MQC balances antagonistic forces of fusion and fission determining mitochondrial and cell fates. In several neurological disorders, dysfunctional mitochondria show significant changes in gene and protein expression of the MQC and contribute to the pathophysiological mechanisms of cell damage. In this study, we evaluated the main gene and protein expression involved in the MQC in rats receiving traumatic brain injury (TBI) of different severities. At 6, 24, 48 and 120 hours after mild TBI (mTBI) or severe TBI (sTBI), gene and protein expressions of fusion and fission were measured in brain tissue homogenates. Compared to intact brain controls, results showed that genes and proteins inducing fusion or fission were upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in mTBI, but downregulated and upregulated, respectively, in sTBI. In particular, OPA1, regulating inner membrane dynamics, cristae remodelling, oxidative phosphorylation, was post-translationally cleaved generating differential amounts of long and short OPA1 in mTBI and sTBI. Corroborated by data referring to citrate synthase, these results confirm the transitory (mTBI) or permanent (sTBI) mitochondrial dysfunction, enhancing MQC importance to maintain cell functions and indicating in OPA1 an attractive potential therapeutic target for TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Pietro
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, B15 2TH, Birmingham, UK
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences Head and Neck Surgery, S. Camillo Hospital, Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy
| | - Lisa J Hill
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, B15 2TH, Birmingham, UK
| | - Edoardo Porto
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, B15 2TH, Birmingham, UK
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25
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Piacentini R, Puma DDL, Mainardi M, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Arancio O, Grassi C. Reduced gliotransmitter release from astrocytes mediates tau-induced synaptic dysfunction in cultured hippocampal neurons. Glia 2017; 65:1302-1316. [PMID: 28519902 PMCID: PMC5520670 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Tau is a microtubule-associated protein exerting several physiological functions in neurons. In Alzheimer's disease (AD) misfolded tau accumulates intraneuronally and leads to axonal degeneration. However, tau has also been found in the extracellular medium. Recent studies indicated that extracellular tau uploaded from neurons causes synaptic dysfunction and contributes to tau pathology propagation. Here we report novel evidence that extracellular tau oligomers are abundantly and rapidly accumulated in astrocytes where they disrupt intracellular Ca2+ signaling and Ca2+ -dependent release of gliotransmitters, especially ATP. Consequently, synaptic vesicle release, the expression of pre- and postsynaptic proteins, and mEPSC frequency and amplitude were reduced in neighboring neurons. Notably, we found that tau uploading from astrocytes required the amyloid precursor protein, APP. Collectively, our findings suggests that astrocytes play a critical role in the synaptotoxic effects of tau via reduced gliotransmitter availability, and that astrocytes are major determinants of tau pathology in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Piacentini
- Institute of Human Physiology, Medical School, Università Cattolica, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenica Donatella Li Puma
- Institute of Human Physiology, Medical School, Università Cattolica, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Mainardi
- Institute of Human Physiology, Medical School, Università Cattolica, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, Università Cattolica, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, Università Cattolica, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology and Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, 630 W 168th St., NY 10032 USA
| | - Claudio Grassi
- Institute of Human Physiology, Medical School, Università Cattolica, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
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26
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Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Di Pietro V, Signoretti S, Lazzarino G, Belli A, Tavazzi B. Severity of experimental traumatic brain injury modulates changes in concentrations of cerebral free amino acids. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 21:530-542. [PMID: 27696676 PMCID: PMC5323875 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, concentrations of free amino acids (FAA) and amino group containing compounds (AGCC) following graded diffuse traumatic brain injury (mild TBI, mTBI; severe TBI, sTBI) were evaluated. After 6, 12, 24, 48 and 120 hr aspartate (Asp), glutamate (Glu), asparagine (Asn), serine (Ser), glutamine (Gln), histidine (His), glycine (Gly), threonine (Thr), citrulline (Cit), arginine (Arg), alanine (Ala), taurine (Tau), γ‐aminobutyrate (GABA), tyrosine (Tyr), S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), l‐cystathionine (l‐Cystat), valine (Val), methionine (Met), tryptophane (Trp), phenylalanine (Phe), isoleucine (Ile), leucine (Leu), ornithine (Orn), lysine (Lys), plus N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) were determined in whole brain extracts (n = 6 rats at each time for both TBI levels). Sham‐operated animals (n = 6) were used as controls. Results demonstrated that mTBI caused modest, transient changes in NAA, Asp, GABA, Gly, Arg. Following sTBI, animals showed profound, long‐lasting modifications of Glu, Gln, NAA, Asp, GABA, Ser, Gly, Ala, Arg, Citr, Tau, Met, SAH, l‐Cystat, Tyr and Phe. Increase in Glu and Gln, depletion of NAA and Asp increase, suggested a link between NAA hydrolysis and excitotoxicity after sTBI. Additionally, sTBI rats showed net imbalances of the Glu‐Gln/GABA cycle between neurons and astrocytes, and of the methyl‐cycle (demonstrated by decrease in Met, and increase in SAH and l‐Cystat), throughout the post‐injury period. Besides evidencing new potential targets for novel pharmacological treatments, these results suggest that the force acting on the brain tissue at the time of the impact is the main determinant of the reactions ignited and involving amino acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences Head and Neck Surgery, S. Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology group, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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27
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Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Di Pietro V, Signoretti S, Lazzarino G, Belli A, Tavazzi B. Metabolic, enzymatic and gene involvement in cerebral glucose dysmetabolism after traumatic brain injury. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1862:679-687. [PMID: 26844378 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the metabolic, enzymatic and gene changes causing cerebral glucose dysmetabolism following graded diffuse traumatic brain injury (TBI) were evaluated. TBI was induced in rats by dropping 450g from 1 (mild TBI; mTBI) or 2m height (severe TBI; sTBI). After 6, 12, 24, 48, and 120h gene expressions and enzymatic activities of glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) enzymes, and levels of lactate, ATP, ADP, ATP/ADP (indexing mitochondrial phosphorylating capacity), NADP(+), NADPH and GSH were determined in whole brain extracts (n=9 rats at each time for both TBI levels). Sham-operated animals (n=9) were used as controls. Results demonstrated that mTBI caused a late increase (48-120h post injury) of glycolytic gene expression and enzymatic activities, concomitantly with mitochondrial functional recovery (ATP and ATP/ADP normalization). No changes in lactate and PPP genes and enzymes, were accompanied by transient decrease in GSH, NADP(+), NADPH and NADPH/NADP(+). Animals following sTBI showed early increase (6-24h post injury) of glycolytic gene expression and enzymatic activities, occurring during mitochondrial malfunctioning (50% decrease in ATP and ATP/ADP). Higher lactate and lower GSH, NADP(+), NADPH, NADPH/NADP(+) than controls were recorded at anytime post injury (p<0.01). Both TBI levels caused metabolic and gene changes affecting glucose metabolism. Following mTBI, increased glucose flux through glycolysis is coupled to mitochondrial glucose oxidation. "True" hyperglycolysis occurs only after sTBI, where metabolic changes, caused by depressed mitochondrial phosphorylating capacity, act on genes causing net glycolytic flux increase uncoupled from mitochondrial glucose oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurobiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT Birmingham, UK.
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences Head and Neck Surgery, S. Camillo Hospital, Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Division of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neurobiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT Birmingham, UK; National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, B15 2TH Birmingham, UK.
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy.
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28
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Petzold A, Nijland PG, Balk LJ, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Wattjes MP, Gasperini C, van der Valk P, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, van Horssen J. Visual pathway neurodegeneration winged by mitochondrial dysfunction. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2014; 2:140-50. [PMID: 25750919 PMCID: PMC4338955 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To test for structural and functional contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction to neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS). A visual pathway model void of MS lesions was chosen in order to exclude neurodegeneration secondary to lesion related axonotmesis. Methods A single-centre cohort study (230 MS patients, 63 controls). Spectral domain optical coherence tomography of the retina, 3T magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, spectrophotometric assessment of serum lactate levels. Postmortem immunohistochemistry. Results The visual pathway was void of MS lesions in 31 patients and 31 age-matched controls. Serum lactate was higher in MS compared to controls (P = 0.029). High serum lactate was structurally related to atrophy of the retinal nerve fiber layer at the optic disc (P = 0.041), macula (P = 0.025), and the macular ganglion cell complex (P = 0.041). High serum lactate was functionally related to poor color vision (P < 0.01), Expanded Disability Status Scale score (R = 0.37, P = 0.041), Guy's Neurological disability score (R = 0.38, P = 0.037), MS walking scale (R = 0.50, P = 0.009), upper limb motor function (R = 0.53, P = 0.002). Immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased astrocytic expression of a key lactate generating enzyme in MS lesions as well as profound vascular expression of monocarboxylate transporter-1, which is involved in lactate transport. Interpretation This study provides structural, functional, and translational evidence for visual pathway neurodegeneration in MS related to mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Petzold
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ; Department of Ophthalmology, VU University Medical Center De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ; Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom ; Moorfields Eye Hospital, Neuro-ophthalmology City Road, London, UK
| | - Philip G Nijland
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisanne J Balk
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Mike P Wattjes
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Claudio Gasperini
- Department of Neurosciences, S Camillo Forlanini Hospital Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy
| | - Paul van der Valk
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome Largo F. Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Jack van Horssen
- Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Amorini AM, Nociti V, Petzold A, Gasperini C, Quartuccio E, Lazzarino G, Di Pietro V, Belli A, Signoretti S, Vagnozzi R, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B. Serum lactate as a novel potential biomarker in multiple sclerosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2014; 1842:1137-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2014.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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30
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Di Pietro V, Lazzarino G, Amorini AM, Tavazzi B, D'Urso S, Longo S, Vagnozzi R, Signoretti S, Clementi E, Giardina B, Lazzarino G, Belli A. Neuroglobin expression and oxidant/antioxidant balance after graded traumatic brain injury in the rat. Free Radic Biol Med 2014; 69:258-64. [PMID: 24491879 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2014.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neuroglobin is a neuron-specific hexacoordinated globin capable of binding various ligands, including O2, NO, and CO, the biological function of which is still uncertain. Various studies seem to indicate that neuroglobin is a neuroprotective agent when overexpressed, acting as a potent inhibitor of oxidative and nitrosative stress. In this study, we evaluated the pathophysiological response of the neuroglobin gene and protein expression in the cerebral tissue of rats sustaining traumatic brain injury of differing severity, while simultaneously measuring the oxidant/antioxidant balance. Two levels of trauma (mild and severe) were induced in anesthetized animals using the weight-drop model of diffuse axonal injury. Rats were then sacrificed at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 120 h after traumatic brain injury, and the gene and protein expression of neuroglobin and the concentrations of malondialdehyde (as a parameter representative of reactive oxygen species-mediated damage), nitrite + nitrate (indicative of NO metabolism), ascorbate, and glutathione (GSH) were determined in the brain tissue. Results indicated that mild traumatic brain injury, although causing a reversible increase in oxidative/nitrosative stress (increase in malondialdehyde and nitrite + nitrate) and an imbalance in antioxidants (decrease in ascorbate and GSH), did not induce any change in neuroglobin. Conversely, severe traumatic brain injury caused an over nine- and a fivefold increase in neuroglobin gene and protein expression, respectively, as well as a remarkable increase in oxidative/nitrosative stress and depletion of antioxidants. The results of this study, showing a lack of effect in mild traumatic brain injury as well as asynchronous time course changes in neuroglobin expression, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and antioxidants in severe traumatic brain injury, do not seem to support the role of neuroglobin as an endogenous neuroprotective antioxidant agent, at least under pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Pietro
- Neurotrauma and Neurodegeneration Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Serafina D'Urso
- Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Longo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Vagnozzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Neurosurgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Head and Neck Surgery, S. Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Clementi
- CNR Institute of "Chimica del riconoscimento molecolare," Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Giardina
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neurotrauma and Neurodegeneration Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Di Pietro V, Amorini AM, Tavazzi B, Vagnozzi R, Logan A, Lazzarino G, Signoretti S, Lazzarino G, Belli A. The molecular mechanisms affecting N-acetylaspartate homeostasis following experimental graded traumatic brain injury. Mol Med 2014; 20:147-57. [PMID: 24515258 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2013.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
To characterize the molecular mechanisms of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) metabolism following traumatic brain injury (TBI), we measured the NAA, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) concentrations and calculated the ATP/ADP ratio at different times from impact, concomitantly evaluating the gene and protein expressions controlling NAA homeostasis (the NAA synthesizing and degrading enzymes N-acetyltransferase 8-like and aspartoacylase, respectively) in rats receiving either mild or severe TBI. The reversible changes in NAA induced by mild TBI were due to a combination of transient mitochondrial malfunctioning with energy crisis (decrease in ATP and in the ATP/ADP ratio) and modulation in the gene and protein levels of N-acetyltransferase 8-like and increase of aspartoacylase levels. The irreversible decrease in NAA following severe TBI, was instead characterized by profound mitochondrial malfunctioning (constant 65% decrease of the ATP/ADP indicating permanent impairment of the mitochondrial phosphorylating capacity), dramatic repression of the N-acetyltransferase 8-like gene and concomitant remarkable increase in the aspartoacylase gene and protein levels. The mechanisms underlying changes in NAA homeostasis following graded TBI might be of note for possible new therapeutic approaches and will help in understanding the effects of repeat concussions occurring during particular periods of the complex NAA recovery process, coincident with the so called window of brain vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Pietro
- Neuropharmacology and Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Vagnozzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Neurosurgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Ann Logan
- Neuropharmacology and Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Giacomo Lazzarino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Signoretti
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences Head and Neck Surgery, San Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Belli
- Neuropharmacology and Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Di Pietro V, Cavallari U, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Longo S, Poggiani C, Cavalli P, Tavazzi B. New T530C mutation in the aspartoacylase gene caused Canavan disease with no correlation between severity and N-acetylaspartate excretion. Clin Biochem 2013; 46:1902-4. [PMID: 24036223 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2013.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Revised: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Canavan disease (OMIM 271900) is a severe autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by spongy degeneration of the brain and caused by mutations in the gene encoding for aspartoacylase (ASPA). The enzyme is responsible for the catalyses of the brain-specific compound N-acetylaspartate (NAA). DESIGN AND METHODS We report the case of two Egyptian sibling patients suspected of Canavan disease (CD) showing clinical deterioration, white matter degeneration, megalencephaly and severe intellectual impairment. The patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biochemical analysis of NAA in biological fluid samples (serum and urine). Subsequently, in order to determine the mutation responsible for CD in these two sibs, a molecular biological examination was performed. RESULTS MRI findings and quantification of high NAA excretion (1378.5 and 680.1μmolNAA/mmolcreatinine in urine of 4months and 4years old patients, respectively) confirmed the diagnosis of CD and prompted a search for the responsible mutation. The molecular biological analysis revealed homozygosity for the substitution T530C (Ile177Thr) in the exon 4 of the ASPA gene in both sibs. A total loss of enzymatic activity was also recorded. CONCLUSIONS The substitution T530C (Ile177Thr) results in a novel missense mutation causing a CD phenotype with severe clinical characteristics. This mutation was not previously described in the literature. In these two sibs, urinary concentration of NAA appears to correlate inversely to symptom severity and CD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Pietro
- School of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, College of Medical & Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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33
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Pittaluga M, Sgadari A, Tavazzi B, Fantini C, Sabatini S, Ceci R, Amorini AM, Parisi P, Caporossi D. Exercise-induced oxidative stress in elderly subjects: the effect of red orange supplementation on the biochemical and cellular response to a single bout of intense physical activity. Free Radic Res 2013; 47:202-11. [DOI: 10.3109/10715762.2012.761696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Cao J, Vecoli C, Neglia D, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Novelli M, Masiello P, Wang YT, Puri N, Paolocci N, L'abbate A, Abraham NG. Cobalt-Protoporphyrin Improves Heart Function by Blunting Oxidative Stress and Restoring NO Synthase Equilibrium in an Animal Model of Experimental Diabetes. Front Physiol 2012; 3:160. [PMID: 22675305 PMCID: PMC3366474 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocardial dysfunction and coronary macro/microvascular alterations are the hallmarks of diabetic cardiomyopathy and are ascribed to increased oxidative stress and altered nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity. We hypothesize that pre-treatment by cobalt-protoporphyrin IX (CoPP) ameliorates both myocardial function and coronary circulation in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Isolated hearts from diabetic rats in Langendorff configuration displayed lower left ventricular function and higher coronary resistance (CR) compared to hearts from control animals. CoPP treatment of diabetic animals (0.3 mg/100 g body weight i.p., once a week for 3 weeks) significantly increased all the contractile/relaxation indexes (p < 0.01), while decreasing CR (p < 0.01). CoPP enhanced HO-1 protein levels and reduced oxidative stress in diabetic animals, as indicated by the significant (p < 0.05) decrease in heart % GSSG, [Formula: see text] and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. CoPP increased adiponectin levels and phosphorylation of AKT and AMPK and reversed the eNOS/iNOS expression imbalance observed in the untreated diabetic heart. Furthermore, after CoPP treatment, a rise in malonyl-CoA as well as a decrease in acetyl-CoA was observed in diabetic hearts. In this experimental model of diabetic cardiomyopathy, CoPP treatment improved both cardiac function and coronary flow by blunting oxidative stress, restoring eNOS/iNOS expression balance and increasing HO-1 levels, thereby favoring improvement in both endothelial function and insulin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cao
- First Geriatric Cardiology Division, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing, China
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Cozzolino M, Augello B, Carella M, Palumbo O, Tavazzi B, Amorini AM, Lazzarino G, Merla G, Brunetti-Pierri N. Chromosomal 17p13.3 microdeletion unmasking recessive Canavan disease mutation. Mol Genet Metab 2011; 104:706-7. [PMID: 22019069 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2011.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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36
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Amorini AM, Giorlandino C, Longo S, D’Urso S, Mesoraca A, Santoro ML, Picardi M, Gullotta S, Cignini P, Lazzarino D, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B. Metabolic profile of amniotic fluid as a biochemical tool to screen for inborn errors of metabolism and fetal anomalies. Mol Cell Biochem 2011; 359:205-16. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-011-1015-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Prieto R, Tavazzi B, Taya K, Barrios L, Amorini AM, Di Pietro V, Pascual JM, Marmarou A, Marmarou CR. Brain energy depletion in a rodent model of diffuse traumatic brain injury is not prevented with administration of sodium lactate. Brain Res 2011; 1404:39-49. [PMID: 21723535 PMCID: PMC3153114 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2011.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Lactate has been identified as an alternative fuel for the brain in situations of increased energy demand, as following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study investigates the effect of treatment with sodium lactate (NaLac) on the changes in brain energy state induced by a severe diffuse TBI. Rats were assigned to one of the eight groups (n=10 per group): 1-sham, normal saline; 2-TBI, normal saline; 3-TBI, hypertonic saline; 4-TBI, 100mM NaLac, 5-TBI, 500 mM NaLac; 6-TBI, 1280 mM NaLac; 7-TBI, 2000 mM NaLac and 8-TBI-500 mM NaLac+magnesium sulfate. Cerebrums were removed 6h after trauma. Metabolites representative of the energy state (ATP, ATP-catabolites), N-acetylaspartate (NAA), antioxidant defenses (ascorbic acid, glutathione), markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, ADP-ribose) and nicotinic coenzymes (NAD(+)) were measured by HPLC. TBI induced a marked decrease in the cerebral levels of ATP, NAA, ascorbic acid, glutathione and NAD(+) and a significant rise in the content of ATP-catabolites, malondialdehyde and ADP-ribose. These alterations were not ameliorated with NaLac infusion. We observed a significant reduction in cerebral NAD(+), an essential co-enzyme for mitochondrial lactate-dehydrogenase that converts lactate into pyruvate and thus replenishes the tricarboxylic acid cycle. These results suggest that the metabolic pathway necessary to consume lactate may be compromised following a severe diffuse TBI in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Prieto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Richmond, VA 23298-0508, USA.
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Lazzarino G, Amorini AM, Di Pietro V, Tavazzi B. HPLC analysis for the clinical-biochemical diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism of purines and pyrimidines. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 708:99-117. [PMID: 21207285 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61737-985-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The determination of purines and pyrimidines in biofluids is useful for the clinical-biochemical characterization of acute and chronic pathological states that induce transient or permanent alterations of metabolism. In particular, the diagnosis of several inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) is accomplished by the analysis of circulating and excreted purines and pyrimidines. It is certainly advantageous to simultaneously determine the full purine and pyrimidine profile, as well as to quantify other compounds of relevance (e.g., organic acids, amino acids, sugars) in various metabolic hereditary diseases, in order to screen for a large number of IEMs using a reliable and sensitive analytical method characterized by mild to moderate costs. Toward this end, we have developed an ion-pairing HPLC method with diode array detection for the synchronous separation of several purines and pyrimidines. This method also allows the quantification of additional compounds such as N-acetylated amino acids and dicarboxylic acids, the concentrations of which are profoundly altered in different IEMs. The application of the method in the analysis of biological samples from patients with suspected purine and pyrimidine disorders is presented to illustrate its applicability for the clinical-biochemical diagnosis of IEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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39
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Signoretti S, Vagnozzi R, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G. Biochemical and neurochemical sequelae following mild traumatic brain injury: summary of experimental data and clinical implications. Neurosurg Focus 2010; 29:E1. [PMID: 21039135 DOI: 10.3171/2010.9.focus10183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Although numerous studies have been carried out to investigate the pathophysiology of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), there are still no standard criteria for the diagnosis and treatment of this peculiar condition. The dominant theory that diffuse axonal injury is the main neuropathological process behind mTBI is being revealed as weak at best or inconclusive, given the current literature and the fact that neuronal injury inherent to mTBI improves, with few lasting clinical sequelae in the vast majority of patients. Clinical and experimental evidence suggests that such a course, rather than being due to cell death, is based on temporal neuronal dysfunction, the inevitable consequence of complex biochemical and neurochemical cascade mechanisms directly and immediately triggered by the traumatic insult. This report is an attempt to summarize data from a long series of experiments conducted in the authors' laboratories and published during the past 12 years, together with an extensive analysis of the available literature, focused on understanding the biochemical damage produced by an mTBI. The overall clinical implications, as well as the metabolic nature of the post-mTBI brain vulnerability, are discussed. Finally, the application of proton MR spectroscopy as a possible tool to monitor the full recovery of brain metabolic functions is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Signoretti
- Department of Neurosciences Head and Neck Surgery, San Camillo Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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40
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Broglio SP, Vagnozzi R, Sabin M, Signoretti S, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G. Concussion occurrence and knowledge in italian football (soccer). J Sports Sci Med 2010; 9:418-30. [PMID: 24149636 PMCID: PMC3761699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/08/2010] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to investigate concussion history, knowledge, injury identification, and management strategies among athletes, coaches, and medical staff in Italian club level football (soccer) clubs. Surveys (N=727) were distributed among Italian football clubs. Athletes' surveys were designed to evaluate athlete knowledge of concussive signs and symptoms and injury reporting. Coaches' surveys explored the understanding of concussive signs and symptoms and management practices. Medical staff surveys explored the standard of care regarding concussions. A total of 342 surveys were returned, for a 47% response rate. Descriptive analyses indicated 10% of athletes sustaining a concussion in the past year and 62% of these injuries were not reported, primarily due to the athletes not thinking the injury was serious enough. Coaches consistently identified non-concussion related symptoms (98.7%), but were unable to identify symptoms associated with concussion (38.9%). Most understood that loss of consciousness is not the sole indicator of injury (82.6%). Medical staff reported a heavy reliance on the clinical exam (92%) and athlete symptom reports (92%) to make the concussion diagnosis and return to play decision, with little use of neurocognitive (16.7%) or balance (0.0%) testing. Italian football athletes appear to report concussions at a rate similar to American football players, with a slightly higher rate of unreported injuries. Most of these athletes were aware they were concussed, but did not feel the injury was serious enough to report. Although coaches served as the primary person to whom concussions were reported, the majority of coaches were unable to accurately identify concussion related symptoms. With little use for neurocognitive and postural control assessments, the medical personnel may be missing injuries or returning athletes to play too soon. Collectively, these findings suggest that athletes, coaches, and medical personnel would benefit from concussion based educational materials on the signs, symptoms, and evaluative techniques of concussion. Key pointsItalian football (soccer) athletes report less than 40% of concussions.Injuries are most commonly reported to coaches, who may not be fully aware of concussive signs and symptoms.International educational measures on concussion awareness and management may be of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Broglio
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Neurotrauma Research Laboratory , Urbana, USA
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41
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Vagnozzi R, Signoretti S, Cristofori L, Alessandrini F, Floris R, Isgro E, Ria A, Marziale S, Zoccatelli G, Tavazzi B, Del Bolgia F, Sorge R, Broglio SP, McIntosh TK, Lazzarino G. Assessment of metabolic brain damage and recovery following mild traumatic brain injury: a multicentre, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic study in concussed patients. Brain 2010; 133:3232-42. [DOI: 10.1093/brain/awq200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 295] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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42
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Di Pietro V, Amin D, Pernagallo S, Lazzarino G, Tavazzi B, Vagnozzi R, Pringle A, Belli A. Transcriptomics of traumatic brain injury: gene expression and molecular pathways of different grades of insult in a rat organotypic hippocampal culture model. J Neurotrauma 2010; 27:349-59. [PMID: 19903084 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2009.1095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the one of the most common forms of head trauma, and it remains a leading cause of death and disability. It is known that the initial mechanical axonal injury triggers a complex cascade of neuroinflammatory and metabolic events, the understanding of which is essential for clinical, translational, and pharmacological research. These can occur even in mild TBI, and are associated with several post-concussion manifestations, including transiently heightened vulnerability to a second insult. Recent studies have challenged the tenet that ischemia is the ultimate modality of tissue damage following TBI, as metabolic dysfunction can develop in the presence of normal perfusion and before intracranial hypertension. In order to elucidate the cellular and molecular changes occurring in TBI as a direct result of neuronal injury and in the absence of ischemic damage, we performed a microarray analysis of expressed genes and molecular interaction pathways for different levels of severity of trauma using an in-vitro model. A stretch injury, equivalent to human diffuse axonal injury, was delivered to rat organotypic hippocampal slice cultures, and mRNA levels following a 10% (mild) and 50% (severe) stretch were compared with controls at 24 h. More genes were differentially expressed following 10% stretch than 50% stretch, indicating the early activation of complex cellular mechanisms. The data revealed remarkable differential gene expression following mTBI, even in the absence of cell damage. Pathway analysis revealed that molecular interactions in both levels of injury were similar, with IL-1beta playing a central role. Additional pathways of neurodegeneration involving RhoA (ras homolog gene family, member A) were found in 50% stretch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Pietro
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
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43
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Lazzarino G, Amorini AM, Eikelenboom MJ, Killestein J, Belli A, Di Pietro V, Tavazzi B, Barkhof F, Polman CH, Uitdehaag BMJ, Petzold A. Cerebrospinal fluid ATP metabolites in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2010; 16:549-54. [PMID: 20194579 DOI: 10.1177/1352458510364196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Increased axonal energy demand and mitochondrial failure have been suggested as possible causes for axonal degeneration and disability in multiple sclerosis. Our objective was to test whether ATP depletion precedes clinical, imaging and biomarker evidence for axonal degeneration in multiple sclerosis. The method consisted of a longitudinal study which included 21 patients with multiple sclerosis. High performance liquid chromatography was used to quantify biomarkers of the ATP metabolism (oxypurines and purines) from the cerebrospinal fluid at baseline. The Expanded Disability Status Scale, MRI brain imaging measures for brain atrophy (ventricular and parenchymal fractions), and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers for axonal damage (phosphorylated and hyperphosphorylated neurofilaments) were quantified at baseline and 3-year follow-up. Central ATP depletion (sum of ATP metabolites >19.7 micromol/litre) was followed by more severe progression of disability if compared to normal ATP metabolites (median 1.5 versus 0, p< 0.05). Baseline ATP metabolite levels correlated with change of Expanded Disability Status Scale in the pooled cohort (r= 0.66, p= 0.001) and subgroups (relapsing-remitting patients: r= 0.79, p< 0.05 and secondary progressive/primary progressive patients: r= 0.69, p< 0.01). There was no relationship between central ATP metabolites and either biomarker or MRI evidence for axonal degeneration. The data suggests that an increased energy demand in multiple sclerosis may cause a quantifiable degree of central ATP depletion. We speculate that the observed clinical disability may be related to depolarisation associated conduction block.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lazzarino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Italy
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44
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Bossola M, Scribano D, Colacicco L, Tavazzi B, Giungi S, Zuppi C, Luciani G, Tazza L. Anorexia and Plasma Levels of Free Tryptophan, Branched Chain Amino Acids, and Ghrelin in Hemodialysis Patients. J Ren Nutr 2009; 19:248-55. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jrn.2008.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [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] [Received: 06/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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45
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Amorini AM, Petzold A, Tavazzi B, Eikelenboom J, Keir G, Belli A, Giovannoni G, Di Pietro V, Polman C, D'Urso S, Vagnozzi R, Uitdehaag B, Lazzarino G. Increase of uric acid and purine compounds in biological fluids of multiple sclerosis patients. Clin Biochem 2009; 42:1001-6. [PMID: 19341721 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2009.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2009] [Revised: 03/12/2009] [Accepted: 03/19/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, the concentrations of uric acid, purine profile and creatinine in samples of cerebrospinal fluid and serum of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients were measured by HPLC and compared with corresponding values recorded in patients without MS (cerebrospinal fluid) and healthy subjects (serum). DESIGN AND METHODS All samples were deproteinized with ultrafiltration (which ensures minimal sample manipulation and efficient protein removal) and then assayed for the synchronous HPLC separation of uric acid, hypoxanthine, xanthine, inosine, adenosine, guanosine and creatinine. RESULTS The values of all compounds assayed were significantly higher in both biological fluids of MS patients with respect to values measured in controls. In particular, serum hypoxanthine, xanthine, uric acid and sum of oxypurines were, respectively, 3.17, 3.11, 1.23 and 1.27-fold higher in these patients than corresponding values recorded in controls (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Differently from what previously reported, we here demonstrate that all purine compounds, including uric acid, are elevated in biological fluids of MS patients. Reinforced by the trend observed for creatinine, this corroborates the notion of sustained purine catabolism, possibly due to imbalance in ATP homeostasis, under these pathological conditions. These results cast doubt on the hypothesis that uric acid is depleted in MS because of increased oxidative stress, rather suggesting that this disease causes a generalized increase in purine catabolism. As observed in other pathological states, uric acid, purine compounds and creatinine, can be considered markers of metabolic energy imbalance rather than of reactive oxygen species, even in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Amorini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Perruzza I, Di Pietro V, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Gamberini M, Barsotti P, Amorini AM, Giardina B, Balducci A. Is adenine phophorybosiltransferase deficiency a still underdiagnosed cause of urolithiasis and chronic renal failure? A report of two cases in a family with an uncommon novel mutation. NDT Plus 2008; 1:292-5. [PMID: 25983915 PMCID: PMC4421284 DOI: 10.1093/ndtplus/sfn072] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2007] [Accepted: 05/28/2008] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe two patients that had a history of recurrent renal stones and chronic renal insufficiency. The first case was a 51-year-old man with an adenine phophoribosyltransferase (APRT) deficiency who was diagnosed only after he had been referred for severe renal failure requiring hemodialysis. This led to a screening of the entire family, which identified six carriers and an additional affected relative (a 41-year-old man and the second case reported herein). Genetic analysis of the APRT gene revealed an atypical mutation previously described only once in a compound heterozygote.
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Affiliation(s)
- Italia Perruzza
- Department of Nephrology, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Giovanni-Addolorata, Rome
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry , Catholic University of Rome , Rome
| | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry , Catholic University of Rome , Rome
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry , University of Catania , Catania
| | - Marco Gamberini
- Department of Nephrology, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Giovanni-Addolorata, Rome
| | - Paola Barsotti
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Pathology , University of Rome "La Sapienza" , Rome , Italy
| | - Angela Maria Amorini
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry , University of Catania , Catania
| | - Bruno Giardina
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry , Catholic University of Rome , Rome
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Kaludercic N, Lindsey ML, Tavazzi B, Lazzarino G, Paolocci N. Inhibiting metalloproteases with PD 166793 in heart failure: impact on cardiac remodeling and beyond. Cardiovasc Ther 2008; 26:24-37. [PMID: 18466418 DOI: 10.1111/j.1527-3466.2007.00034.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Metalloproteinases (MMPs, also called matrixins) are extracellular proteolytic enzymes involved in the degradation of both matrix and nonmatrix proteins. Currently, 25 MMPs have been identified in humans, and the overexpression of one or more MMPs has been implicated in several pathologies, spanning from cancer to rheumathoid arthritis to cardiovascular disease. While research over the past 20 years has focused on understanding MMP biology and selectively inhibiting MMP activity, key issues that remain to be addressed include MMP roles in the context of normal versus pathological conditions and whether globally inhibiting MMPs improves or deteriorates overall organ function. In terms of cardiovascular disease, increased MMP expression has been demonstrated in the setting of myocardial ischemia, reperfusion injury, and during the progression to congestive heart failure. MMPs are also major contributors to the progression of atherosclerotic lesions. In this review, we focus on cardiovascular effects produced by PD 166793, a wide-broad spectrum MMP inhibitor, originally developed by Parke-Davis (now Pfizer). We will briefly review its structure, mechanism of action, and inhibitory capacity. Finally, we will illustrate the cardiac contexts, both in vivo and in vitro, in which PD166793 administration has proven beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Kaludercic
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Vagnozzi R, Signoretti S, Tavazzi B, Floris R, Ludovici A, Marziali S, Tarascio G, Amorini AM, Di Pietro V, Delfini R, Lazzarino G. TEMPORAL WINDOW OF METABOLIC BRAIN VULNERABILITY TO CONCUSSION. Neurosurgery 2008; 62:1286-95; discussion 1295-6. [DOI: 10.1227/01.neu.0000333300.34189.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Vagnozzi R, Signoretti S, Tavazzi B, Floris R, Ludovici A, Marziali S, Tarascio G, Amorini AM, Di Pietro V, Delfini R, Lazzarino G. TEMPORAL WINDOW OF METABOLIC BRAIN VULNERABILITY TO CONCUSSION. Neurosurgery 2008. [DOI: 10.1227/01.neu.0000316421.58568.ad] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE
In the present study, the occurrence of the temporal window of brain vulnerability was evaluated in concussed athletes by measuring N-acetylaspartate (NAA) using proton magnetic resonance (1H-MR) spectroscopy.
METHODS
Thirteen nonprofessional athletes who had a sport-related concussive head injury were examined for NAA determination by means of 1H-MR spectroscopy at 3, 15, and 30 days postinjury. All athletes but three suspended their physical activity. Those who continued their training had a second concussive event and underwent further examination at 45 days from the initial injury. The single case of one professional boxer, who was studied before the match and 4, 7, 15, and 30 days after a knockout, is also presented. Before each magnetic resonance examination, patients were asked for symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury, including physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep disturbances. Data for 1H-MR spectroscopy recorded in five normal, age-matched, control volunteers, who were previously screened to exclude previous head injuries, were used for comparison. Semiquantitative analysis of NAA relative to creatine (Cr)- and choline (Cho)-containing compounds was performed from proton spectra obtained with a 3-T magnetic resonance system.
RESULTS
Regarding the values of the NAA-to-Cr ratio (2.21 ± 0.11) recorded in control patients, singly concussed athletes, at 3 days after the concussion, showed a decrease of 18.5% (1.80 ± 0.04; P < 0.001). Only a modest 3% recovery was observed at 15 days (1.88 ± 0.1; P < 0.001); at 30 days postinjury, the NAA-to-Cr ratio was 2.15 ± 0.1, revealing full metabolic recovery with values not significantly different from those of control patients. These patients declared complete resolution of symptoms at the time of the 3-day study. The three patients who had a second concussive injury before the 15-day study showed an identical decrease of the NAA-to-Cr ratio at 3 days (1.78 ± 0.08); however, at 15 days after the second injury, a further diminution of the NAA-to-Cr ratio occurred (1.72 ± 0.07; P < 0.05 with respect to singly concussed athletes). At 30 days, the NAA-to-Cr ratio was 1.82 ± 0.1, and at 45 days postinjury, the NAA-to-Cr ratio showed complete recovery (2.07 ± 0.1; not significant with respect to control patients). This group of patients declared a complete resolution of symptoms at the time of the 30-day study.
CONCLUSION
Results of this pilot study carried out in a cohort of singly and doubly concussed athletes, examined by 1H-MR spectroscopy for their NAA cerebral content at different time points after concussive events, demonstrate that also in humans, concussion opens a temporal window of brain metabolic imbalance, the closure of which does not coincide with resolution of clinical symptoms. The recovery of brain metabolism is not linearly related to time. A second concussive event prolonged the time of NAA normalization by 15 days. Although needing confirmation in a larger group of patients, these results show that NAA measurement by 1H-MR spectroscopy is a valid tool in assessing the full cerebral metabolic recovery after concussion, thereby suggesting its use in helping to decide when to allow athletes to return to play after a mild traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Vagnozzi
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Tavazzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Floris
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Ludovici
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Marziali
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Angela M. Amorini
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Pietro
- Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Delfini
- Department of Neurological Sciences–Neurosurgery, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Pitocco D, Di Stasio E, Romitelli F, Zaccardi F, Tavazzi B, Manto A, Caputo S, Musella T, Zuppi C, Santini SA, Ghirlanda G. Hypouricemia linked to an overproduction of nitric oxide is an early marker of oxidative stress in female subjects with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2008; 24:318-23. [PMID: 18254136 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to verify whether, early in the course of type 1 diabetes and assuming hyperglycemia as the only risk factor, women demonstrate a change in oxidative status due to an interaction between nitric oxide (NO) and uric acid production. METHODS Thirty-eight women with type 1 diabetes of less than 10 years' duration and with no diabetic complications were compared with 25 matched healthy female controls. Insulin, C-peptide, NO, HbA(1c) and oxidative stress metabolites were determined from venous blood samples taken from all patients after a 12 h overnight fast. Urine samples were used for urinary uric acid determination. RESULTS Most oxidative stress metabolites were significantly increased (p < 0.0001), while plasmatic and urinary uric acid levels were significantly lower (p < 0.0001) in patients with type 1 diabetes compared with controls. Mean NO levels were inversely related to uricemia. Bivariate regression analysis showed a significant correlation between plasmatic uric acid and NO (p = 0.004), ascorbic acid (p = 0.042), triglycerides (p = 0.014) and HbA(1c) (p < 0.0001). Linear multivariate regression analysis showed a significant relationship between HbA(1c) and plasmatic uric acid (beta = - 0.465, p = 0.0004). CONCLUSIONS Oxidative stress is already present in the early stages of type 1 diabetes. We conclude that the initial increase in oxidative stress could be linked to a reduction in plasmatic levels of uric acid, which is probably directly caused by an overproduction of NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Pitocco
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University, Rome, Italy.
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