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Pastore I, Bedin E, Marzari G, Bassi F, Gallo C, Mucignat-Caretta C. Behavioral guidance for improving dental care in autistic spectrum disorders. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1272638. [PMID: 38034927 PMCID: PMC10682214 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1272638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) impair many aspects of everyday life and may prevent access to dental care, often limiting it to emergencies. Impaired oral health has long-lasting negative consequences on health status and on the acquisition of oral habits (e.g., oral respiration and grinding) or competencies (e.g., proper speech production). Children with ASD may be scared in the dental setting, which is rich in sensory stimuli and requires physical contact. Due to their behavioral manifestations, they represent a challenge for dentists and hygienists. We created a dedicated pathway with behavioral support for children with ASD to allow dental care and possibly limit the use of general anesthesia. Methods We evaluated the effects of behavioral support in a quasi-experimental design by comparing two groups of children with ASD. The first group (n = 84) was visited every 2 months for 3 years and received additional support (visual aids, caregiver training, and longer visit duration). A control group, matched for age and sex, was visited at least twice a year or more, if needed, according to standard healthcare guidelines. Results Compliance with the schedule was high throughout the 3 years. The degree of collaboration significantly improved after 1 year in the supported group, while the control group did not change. At the end of the study, collaboration remained significantly higher than at the beginning in the supported group. Half of dental treatments were possible without general anesthesia in supported children. No adverse effect was apparent on collaboration due to COVID-19 restrictions. Discussion Behavioral techniques improved the compliance of ASD children to regular dentistry visits and treatment. Furthermore, oral hygiene at home was similarly improved, addressing oral health from a lifelong perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Pastore
- Community Dentistry Department, Ospedale Immacolata Concezione, Piove di Sacco, Italy
| | - Elena Bedin
- Community Dentistry Department, Ospedale Immacolata Concezione, Piove di Sacco, Italy
| | - Giulia Marzari
- Community Dentistry Department, Ospedale Immacolata Concezione, Piove di Sacco, Italy
| | - Francesca Bassi
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Claudio Gallo
- Community Dentistry Department, Ospedale Immacolata Concezione, Piove di Sacco, Italy
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2
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Soravia G. Positive or negative environmental modulations on human brain development: the morpho-functional outcomes of music training or stress. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1266766. [PMID: 38027483 PMCID: PMC10657192 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1266766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last couple of decades, the study of human living brain has benefitted of neuroimaging and non-invasive electrophysiological techniques, which are particularly valuable during development. A number of studies allowed to trace the usual stages leading from pregnancy to adult age, and relate them to functional and behavioral measurements. It was also possible to explore the effects of some interventions, behavioral or not, showing that the commonly followed pathway to adulthood may be steered by external interventions. These events may result in behavioral modifications but also in structural changes, in some cases limiting plasticity or extending/modifying critical periods. In this review, we outline the healthy human brain development in the absence of major issues or diseases. Then, the effects of negative (different stressors) and positive (music training) environmental stimuli on brain and behavioral development is depicted. Hence, it may be concluded that the typical development follows a course strictly dependent from environmental inputs, and that external intervention can be designed to positively counteract negative influences, particularly at young ages. We also focus on the social aspect of development, which starts in utero and continues after birth by building social relationships. This poses a great responsibility in handling children education and healthcare politics, pointing to social accountability for the responsible development of each child.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Soravia
- Department of Mother and Child Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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3
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Caretta A. Estimation of cAMP binding in hippocampus CA1 field by a fluorescent probe. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1267956. [PMID: 37842083 PMCID: PMC10570460 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1267956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The hippocampus is an allocortex structure involved in many complex processes, from memory formation to spatial navigation. It starts developing during prenatal life but acquires its adult functional properties around the peripubertal age, in both humans and mice. Such prolonged maturation is accompanied by structural changes in microcircuitry and functional changes involving biochemical and electrophysiological events. Moreover, hippocampus undergoes plasticity phenomena throughout life. In murine rodents, the most relevant maturation steps in Cornu Ammonis 1 (CA1) hippocampal subfield occur during the third-fourth weeks of life. During this period, also the expression and localization of cAMP-dependent protein kinases (PKA) refines: many regulatory (R1A) PKA clusters appear, bound to the cytoskeleton. Here the binding characteristics of R1A are determined in CA1 by using confocal microscopy. Apparently, two binding sites are present with no evidence of cooperativity. Equilibrium dissociation constant is estimated around 22.9 nM. This value is lower from that estimated for R1A in soluble form, suggesting a different binding site conformation or accessibility in the tissue. The method described here may be useful to track the developmental changes in binding activity, which affects cAMP availability at selected intracellular microzones. Possible relations with functional consequences are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Caretta
- Department of Food and Drug Science, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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4
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Gallo C, Scarpis A, Mucignat-Caretta C. Oral health status and management of autistic patients in the dental setting. Eur J Paediatr Dent 2023:1. [PMID: 37057341 DOI: 10.23804/ejpd.2023.1656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM Dental treatment of patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is challenging due to difficulties in social interactions, hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli, various degrees of cognitive and developmental issues, poor collaboration, limited capacity to manage emotions, stereotyped movements, hyperactivity, limited adaptation to new situations and environments. Data on the type of treatment required are scarce. This study investigates the oral health status of ASD patients, the possibilities of chair treatment and the need for dental treatments under general anaesthesia (GA). METHODS One hundred sixty-nine medical records, from 2005 to 2018, of patients with ASD were examined. Patients undergoing chair or general anaesthesia were assigned to two groups according age (younger or older than 14 years old). The level of cooperation was classified into four categories: none, poor, fair, good. CONCLUSION Primary prevention, setting up a routine oral hygiene at home and regular dental examinations, internalised like a habit by patients, are the main instruments to maintain oral health in ASD patients. When non-cooperative patients need urgent treatment, safe and high-level dental therapies should be performed under GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gallo
- Immacolata Concezione Hospital, Piove di Sacco, Italy
| | - A Scarpis
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy
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5
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Ohla K, Veldhuizen MG, Green T, Hannum ME, Bakke AJ, Moein ST, Tognetti A, Postma EM, Pellegrino R, Hwang DLD, Albayay J, Koyama S, Nolden AA, Thomas-Danguin T, Mucignat-Caretta C, Menger NS, Croijmans I, Ã-ztà Rk L, YanÄ K H, Pierron D, Pereda-Loth V, Nunez-Parra A, Martinez Pineda AM, Gillespie D, Farruggia MC, Cecchetto C, Fornazieri MA, Philpott C, Voznessenskaya V, Cooper KW, Rohlfs Dominguez P, Calcinoni O, de Groot J, Boesveldt S, Bhutani S, Weir EM, Exten C, Joseph PV, Parma V, Hayes JE, Niv MY. A follow-up on quantitative and qualitative olfactory dysfunction and other symptoms in patients recovering from COVID-19 smell loss. Rhinology 2022; 60:207-217. [PMID: 35398877 PMCID: PMC11016179 DOI: 10.4193/rhin21.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sudden smell loss is a specific early symptom of COVID-19, which, prior to the emergence of Omicron, had estimated prevalence of ~40% to 75%. Chemosensory impairments affect physical and mental health, and dietary behavior. Thus, it is critical to understand the rate and time course of smell recovery. The aim of this cohort study was to characterize smell function and recovery up to 11 months post COVID-19 infection. METHODS This longitudinal survey of individuals suffering COVID-19-related smell loss assessed disease symptoms and gustatory and olfactory function. Participants (n=12,313) who completed an initial survey (S1) about respiratory symptoms, chemosensory function and COVID-19 diagnosis between April and September 2020, were invited to complete a follow-up survey (S2). Between September 2020 and February 2021, 27.5% participants responded (n=3,386), with 1,468 being diagnosed with COVID-19 and suffering co-occurring smell and taste loss at the beginning of their illness. RESULTS At follow-up (median time since COVID-19 onset ~200 days), ~60% of women and ~48% of men reported less than 80% of their pre-illness smell ability. Taste typically recovered faster than smell, and taste loss rarely persisted if smell recovered. Prevalence of parosmia and phantosmia was ~10% of participants in S1 and increased substantially in S2: ~47% for parosmia and ~25% for phantosmia. Persistent smell impairment was associated with more symptoms overall, suggesting it may be a key marker of long-COVID illness. The ability to smell during COVID-19 was rated slightly lower by those who did not eventually recover their pre-illness ability to smell at S2. CONCLUSIONS While smell ability improves for many individuals who lost it during acute COVID-19, the prevalence of parosmia and phantosmia increases substantially over time. Olfactory dysfunction is associated with broader persistent symptoms of COVID-19, and may last for many months following acute COVID-19. Taste loss in the absence of smell loss is rare. Persistent qualitative smell symptoms are emerging as common long-term sequelae; more research into treatment options is strongly warranted given that even conservative estimates suggest millions of individuals may experience parosmia following COVID-19. Healthcare providers worldwide need to be prepared to treat post COVID-19 secondary effects on physical and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ohla
- Helmut-Schmidt-University, University of the Armed Forces Hamburg, Germany; Firmenich SA, Satigny, Switzerland; The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | | | - T Green
- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - M E Hannum
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, USA
| | - A J Bakke
- The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - S T Moein
- Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Iran
| | - A Tognetti
- Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - E M Postma
- Wageningen University and Research, the Netherlands
| | - R Pellegrino
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | | | | | - A A Nolden
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - S Boesveldt
- Wageningen University and Research, the Netherlands
| | | | - E M Weir
- The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - C Exten
- The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - P V Joseph
- National Institutes of Health, NINR, NIAAA, USA
| | - V Parma
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, USA
| | - J E Hayes
- The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - M Y Niv
- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
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6
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Caretta A, Mucignat-Caretta C. Not Only COVID-19: Involvement of Multiple Chemosensory Systems in Human Diseases. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:862005. [PMID: 35547642 PMCID: PMC9081982 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.862005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory systems are deemed marginal in human pathology. In appraising their role, we aim at suggesting a paradigm shift based on the available clinical and experimental data that will be discussed. Taste and olfaction are polymodal sensory systems, providing inputs to many brain structures that regulate crucial visceral functions, including metabolism but also endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune systems. Moreover, other visceral chemosensory systems monitor different essential chemical parameters of “milieu intérieur,” transmitting their data to the brain areas receiving taste and olfactory inputs; hence, they participate in regulating the same vital functions. These chemosensory cells share many molecular features with olfactory or taste receptor cells, thus they may be affected by the same pathological events. In most COVID-19 patients, taste and olfaction are disturbed. This may represent only a small portion of a broadly diffuse chemosensory incapacitation. Indeed, many COVID-19 peculiar symptoms may be explained by the impairment of visceral chemosensory systems, for example, silent hypoxia, diarrhea, and the “cytokine storm”. Dysregulation of chemosensory systems may underlie the much higher mortality rate of COVID-19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) compared to ARDSs of different origins. In chronic non-infectious diseases like hypertension, diabetes, or cancer, the impairment of taste and/or olfaction has been consistently reported. This may signal diffuse chemosensory failure, possibly worsening the prognosis of these patients. Incapacitation of one or few chemosensory systems has negligible effects on survival under ordinary life conditions but, under stress, like metabolic imbalance or COVID-19 pneumonia, the impairment of multiple chemosensory systems may lead to dire consequences during the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Caretta
- National Institute for Biostructures and Biosystems (NIBB), Rome, Italy
- Department of Food and Drug Science, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- National Institute for Biostructures and Biosystems (NIBB), Rome, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
- *Correspondence: Carla Mucignat-Caretta,
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Visioli F, Mucignat-Caretta C, Anile F, Panaite SA. Traditional and Medical Applications of Fasting. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030433. [PMID: 35276792 PMCID: PMC8838777 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fasting has been practiced for millennia, for religious, ethical, or health reasons. It is also commonplace among different species, from humans, to animals, to lower eukaryotes. Research on fasting is gaining traction based on recent studies that show its role in many adaptive cellular responses such as the reduction of oxidative damage and inflammation, increase of energy metabolism, and in boosting cellular protection. In this expert review, we recount the historical evolution of fasting and we critically analyze its current medical applications, including benefits and caveats. Based on the available data, we conclude that the manipulation of dietary intake, in the form of calorie restriction, intermittent fasting, dietary restriction with the exclusion of some nutrients, prolonged fasting, and so forth, is anthropologically engraved in human culture possibly because of its positive health effects. Indeed, many studies show that fasting ameliorates many biochemical parameters related to cardiovascular and cancer risk, and neurodegeneration. Mechanistic studies are plentiful, but largely limited to cell cultures or laboratory animals. Understandably, there are no controlled trials of any form of fasting that gauge the effects on [any cause] mortality. Physicians should be aware that misinformation is pervasive and that their patients often adopt dietary regimens that are far from being clinically validated. Moreover, doctors are often unaware of their patients’ religious or traditional fasting and of its potential health effects. Based on current evidence, no long-term fasting should be undertaken without medical supervision until future research will hopefully help shed further light on fasting and its effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Visioli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo, 335121 Padova, Italy; (C.M.-C.); (F.A.)
- IMDEA-Food, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +390498276107
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo, 335121 Padova, Italy; (C.M.-C.); (F.A.)
| | - Francesca Anile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo, 335121 Padova, Italy; (C.M.-C.); (F.A.)
| | - Stefan-Alexandru Panaite
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy;
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8
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Caretta A, Mucignat-Caretta C. Are Multiple Chemosensory Systems Accountable for COVID-19 Outcome? J Clin Med 2021; 10:5601. [PMID: 34884303 PMCID: PMC8658083 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory systems (olfaction, taste, trigeminus nerve, solitary chemoreceptor cells, neuroendocrine pulmonary cells, and carotid body, etc.) detect molecules outside or inside our body and may share common molecular markers. In addition to the impairment of taste and olfaction, the detection of the internal chemical environment may also be incapacitated by COVID-19. If this is the case, different consequences can be expected. (1) In some patients, hypoxia does not trigger distressing dyspnea ("silent" hypoxia): Long-term follow-up may determine whether silent hypoxia is related to malfunctioning of carotid body chemoreceptors. Moreover, taste/olfaction and oxygen chemoreceptors may be hit simultaneously: Testing olfaction, taste, and oxygen chemoreceptor functions in the early stages of COVID-19 allows one to unravel their connections and trace the recovery path. (2) Solitary chemosensory cells are also involved in the regulation of the innate mucosal immune response: If these cells are affected in some COVID-19 patients, the mucosal innate immune response would be dysregulated, opening one up to massive infection, thus explaining why COVID-19 has lethal consequences in some patients. Similar to taste and olfaction, oxygen chemosensory function can be easily tested with a non-invasive procedure in humans, while functional tests for solitary chemosensory or pulmonary neuroendocrine cells are not available, and autoptic investigation is required to ascertain their involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Caretta
- Department of Food and Drug Science, University of Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy;
- NIBB—National Institute for Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- NIBB—National Institute for Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Rome, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
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Cecchetto C, Di Pizio A, Genovese F, Calcinoni O, Macchi A, Dunkel A, Ohla K, Spinelli S, Farruggia MC, Joseph PV, Menini A, Cantone E, Dinnella C, Cecchini MP, D’Errico A, Mucignat-Caretta C, Parma V, Dibattista M. Assessing the extent and timing of chemosensory impairments during COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17504. [PMID: 34471196 PMCID: PMC8410776 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96987-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory impairments have been established as a specific indicator of COVID-19. They affect most patients and may persist long past the resolution of respiratory symptoms, representing an unprecedented medical challenge. Since the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic started, we now know much more about smell, taste, and chemesthesis loss associated with COVID-19. However, the temporal dynamics and characteristics of recovery are still unknown. Here, capitalizing on data from the Global Consortium for Chemosensory Research (GCCR) crowdsourced survey, we assessed chemosensory abilities after the resolution of respiratory symptoms in participants diagnosed with COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic in Italy. This analysis led to the identification of two patterns of chemosensory recovery, partial and substantial, which were found to be associated with differential age, degrees of chemosensory loss, and regional patterns. Uncovering the self-reported phenomenology of recovery from smell, taste, and chemesthetic disorders is the first, yet essential step, to provide healthcare professionals with the tools to take purposeful and targeted action to address chemosensory disorders and their severe discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Cecchetto
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Pizio
- grid.506467.6Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Federica Genovese
- grid.250221.60000 0000 9142 2735Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | - Alberto Macchi
- ENT Department, Italian Academy of Rhinology-ASST sette laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreas Dunkel
- grid.506467.6Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kathrin Ohla
- grid.49096.320000 0001 2238 0831Experimental Psychology Unit, Helmut-Schmidt-University/University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sara Spinelli
- grid.8404.80000 0004 1757 2304Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michael C. Farruggia
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, USA
| | - Paule V. Joseph
- National Institutes of Nursing Research, Bethesda, USA ,grid.420085.b0000 0004 0481 4802National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Anna Menini
- grid.5970.b0000 0004 1762 9868Neurobiology Section, SISSA, International School for Advanced Studies, Trieste, Italy
| | - Elena Cantone
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Section, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Dinnella
- grid.8404.80000 0004 1757 2304Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- grid.5611.30000 0004 1763 1124Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna D’Errico
- grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721Department of Neurobiology, Goethe Universität Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valentina Parma
- grid.250221.60000 0000 9142 2735Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, USA ,grid.264727.20000 0001 2248 3398Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Michele Dibattista
- grid.7644.10000 0001 0120 3326Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari A. Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare n.11, 70124 Bari, Italy
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10
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Zorzan M, Del Vecchio C, Vogiatzis S, Saccon E, Parolin C, Palù G, Calistri A, Mucignat-Caretta C. Targeting the Regulatory Subunit R2Alpha of Protein Kinase A in Human Glioblastoma through shRNA-Expressing Lentiviral Vectors. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071361. [PMID: 34372567 PMCID: PMC8310305 DOI: 10.3390/v13071361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most malignant and most common form of brain tumor, still today associated with a poor 14-months median survival from diagnosis. Protein kinase A, particularly its regulatory subunit R2Alpha, presents a typical intracellular distribution in glioblastoma cells compared to the healthy brain parenchyma and this peculiarity might be exploited in a therapeutic setting. In the present study, a third-generation lentiviral system for delivery of shRNA targeting the regulatory subunit R2Alpha of protein kinase A was developed. Generated lentiviral vectors are able to induce an efficient and stable downregulation of R2Alpha in different cellular models, including non-stem and stem-like glioblastoma cells. In addition, our data suggest a potential correlation between silencing of the regulatory subunit of protein kinase A and reduced viability of tumor cells, apparently due to a reduction in replication rate. Thus, our findings support the role of protein kinase A as a promising target for novel anti-glioma therapies.
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11
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Bordin A, Mucignat-Caretta C, Gaudioso P, Pendolino AL, Leoni D, Scarpa B, Andrews PJ, Cattelan AM, Antonini A, Nicolai P, Marchese-Ragona R, Ottaviano G. Comparison of self-reported symptoms and psychophysical tests in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) subjects experiencing long-term olfactory dysfunction: a 6-month follow-up study. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2021; 11:1592-1595. [PMID: 34148294 PMCID: PMC8426864 DOI: 10.1002/alr.22828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bordin
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Piergiorgio Gaudioso
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alfonso Luca Pendolino
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Royal National ENT & Eastman Dental Hospitals, London, UK.,Ear Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Davide Leoni
- Unit of Infectious Disease University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Bruno Scarpa
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Department of Mathematics "Tullio Levi-Civita,", University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Peter J Andrews
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Royal National ENT & Eastman Dental Hospitals, London, UK.,Ear Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Angelo Antonini
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Piero Nicolai
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Giancarlo Ottaviano
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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12
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Cecchetto C, Di Pizio A, Genovese F, Calcinoni O, Macchi A, Dunkel A, Ohla K, Spinelli S, Farruggia MC, Joseph PV, Menini A, Cantone E, Dinnella C, Cecchini MP, D’Errico A, Mucignat-Caretta C, Parma V, Dibattista M. From loss to recovery: how to effectively assess chemosensory impairments during COVID-19 pandemic. medRxiv 2021:2021.03.25.21254253. [PMID: 33791742 PMCID: PMC8010774 DOI: 10.1101/2021.03.25.21254253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Chemosensory impairments have been established as a specific indicator of COVID-19. They affect most patients and may persist long past the resolution of respiratory symptoms, representing an unprecedented medical challenge. Since the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic started, we now know much more about smell, taste, and chemesthesis loss associated with COVID-19. However, the temporal dynamics and characteristics of recovery are still unknown. Here, capitalizing on data from the Global Consortium for Chemosensory Research (GCCR) crowdsourced survey, we assessed chemosensory abilities after the resolution of respiratory symptoms in participants diagnosed with COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic in Italy. This analysis led to the identification of two patterns of chemosensory recovery, limited (partial) and substantial, which were found to be associated with differential age, degrees of chemosensory loss, and regional patterns. Uncovering the self-reported phenomenology of recovery from smell, taste, and chemesthetic disorders is the first, yet essential step, to provide healthcare professionals with the tools to take purposeful and targeted action to address chemosensory disorders and its severe discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonella Di Pizio
- Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Alberto Macchi
- ENT department, Italian Academy Of Rhinology - ASST sette laghi Varese
| | - Andreas Dunkel
- Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Kathrin Ohla
- Institute of Psychology, University of Muenster, Germany
| | - Sara Spinelli
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Italy
| | | | - Paule V. Joseph
- National Institutes of Nursing Research
- National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
- National Institutes of Health
| | - Anna Menini
- Neurobiology Section, SISSA, International School for Advanced Studies, Italy
| | - Elena Cantone
- Department of Neuroscience, ENT section, Federico II University of Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Dinnella
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Anna D’Errico
- Department of Neurobiology, Goethe Universität Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Valentina Parma
- Department of Physiology, Monell Chemical Senses Center, USA
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, USA
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13
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Bisiacchi P, Marcazzan GL, Calistri A, Parolin C, Antonini A. TaSCA, an Agile Survey on Chemosensory Impairments for Self-Monitoring of COVID-19 Patients: A Pilot Study. Front Neurol 2021; 12:633574. [PMID: 33716936 PMCID: PMC7943440 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.633574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective: During the COVID-19 pandemic, smell and taste disorders emerged as key non-respiratory symptoms. Due to widespread presence of the disease and to difficult objective testing of positive persons, the use of short surveys became mandatory. Most of the existing resources are focused on smell, very few on taste or trigeminal chemosensation called chemesthesis. However, it is possible that the three submodalities are affected differently by COVID-19. Methods: We prepared a short survey (TaSCA) that can be administered at the telephone or through online resources to explore chemosensation. It is composed of 11 items on olfaction, taste, and chemesthesis, in order to discriminate the three modalities. We avoided abstract terms, and the use of semiquantitative scales because older patients may be less engaged. Statistical handling included descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-squared test and cluster analysis. Results: The survey was completed by 83 persons (60 females and 23 males), which reported diagnosis of COVID-19 by clinical (n = 7) or molecular (n = 18) means, the others being non-COVID subjects. Cluster analysis depicted the existence of two groups, one containing mostly asymptomatic and one mostly symptomatic subjects. All swab-positive persons fell within this second group. Only one item, related to trigeminal temperature perception, did not discriminate between the two groups. Conclusions: These preliminary results indicate that TaSCA may be used to easily track chemosensory symptoms related to COVID-19 in an agile way, giving a picture of three different chemosensory modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrizia Bisiacchi
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.,Padova Neuroscience Center, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Arianna Calistri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Cristina Parolin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Angelo Antonini
- Padova Neuroscience Center, Padua, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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14
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Gallo C, Bonvento G, Zagotto G, Mucignat-Caretta C. Gingival overgrowth induced by anticonvulsant drugs: A cross-sectional study on epileptic patients. J Periodontal Res 2020; 56:363-369. [PMID: 33368283 DOI: 10.1111/jre.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to estimate the prevalence of gingival overgrowth (hyperplasia) and to determine whether active molecules affect the severity of overgrowth in a group of epileptic patients. BACKGROUND The effects of phenytoin on oral health have been explored in different studies, yet little information is available on other antiepileptic drugs. METHODS Data were collected from 213 subjects of both sexes, from 5 to 80 years. Patients taking the same antiepileptic therapy for at least 1 year and meeting the inclusion criteria of the study (n = 162) were subjected to measurement of gingival overgrowth according to the modified Harris and Ewalt classification and O'Leary's plaque control record (OLR). Descriptive statistics were calculated. Data were analyzed using Pearson's r correlation coefficient and chi-square test. Significance level was set at 5%. RESULTS The active drugs lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, and phenobarbital were significantly associated with gingival overgrowth in 61%, 71%, and 53% of cases, respectively, and phenytoin, valproic acid, and carbamazepine in 50%, 44%, and 32% of cases, respectively. CONCLUSION Different antiepileptic molecules may be related to gingival overgrowth. In addition to phenytoin, also lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, and phenobarbital were associated with increased prevalence of gingival overgrowth. In the management of epileptic patients, dentists should take into account different drugs as possible causes for gingival overgrowth and warn for possible alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Gallo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- 'Immacolata Concezione' Hospital, Piove di Sacco, Italy
| | - Giada Bonvento
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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15
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Mucignat-Caretta C. Tumors of the Central Nervous System: An Update. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092507. [PMID: 32899365 PMCID: PMC7565064 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Marzolo, 3-35131 Padova, Italy
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16
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Caretta A. Protein Kinase A Catalytic and Regulatory Subunits Interact Differently in Various Areas of Mouse Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093051. [PMID: 32357495 PMCID: PMC7246855 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase A (PKA) are tetramers of two catalytic and two regulatory subunits, docked at precise intracellular sites to provide localized phosphorylating activity, triggered by cAMP binding to regulatory subunits and subsequent dissociation of catalytic subunits. It is unclear whether in the brain PKA dissociated subunits may also be found. PKA catalytic subunit was examined in various mouse brain areas using immunofluorescence, equilibrium binding and western blot, to reveal its location in comparison to regulatory subunits type RI and RII. In the cerebral cortex, catalytic subunits colocalized with clusters of RI, yet not all RI clusters were bound to catalytic subunits. In stria terminalis, catalytic subunits were in proximity to RI but separated from them. Catalytic subunits clusters were also present in the corpus striatum, where RII clusters were detected, whereas RI clusters were absent. Upon cAMP addition, the distribution of regulatory subunits did not change, while catalytic subunits were completely released from regulatory subunits. Unpredictably, catalytic subunits were not solubilized; instead, they re-targeted to other binding sites within the tissue, suggesting local macromolecular reorganization. Hence, the interactions between catalytic and regulatory subunits of protein kinase A consistently vary in different brain areas, supporting the idea of multiple interaction patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, 00136 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Antonio Caretta
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, 00136 Roma, Italy
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy
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17
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Ribaudo G, Zagotto G, Ongaro A, Ricci A, Caretta A, Mucignat-Caretta C. A new sensitive and subunit-selective molecular tool for investigating protein kinase A in the brain. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2020; 353:e1900326. [PMID: 31994230 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.201900326] [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: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Despite cellular complexity, a limited number of small molecules act as intracellular second messengers. Protein kinase A (PKA) is the main transducer of the information carried by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Recently, cellular imaging has achieved major technical advancements, although the search for more specific and sensitive low-molecular-weight probes to explore subcellular events involving second messengers is still in progress. The convergent synthesis of a novel, fluorescent small molecule comprising the cAMP structure and a rhodamine-based fluorescent residue, connected through a flexible linker, is described here. The interaction motif of this compound with PKA was investigated in silico using a blind docking approach, comparing its theoretical binding energy with the one calculated for cAMP. Moreover, the predicted pharmacokinetic properties were also computed and discussed. The new probe was tested on three areas of the mouse central nervous system (parietal cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellar cortex) with different fixation methods demonstrating remarkable selectivity towards the PKA RIα subunit. The probe showed overall better performances when compared to other commercially available fluorescent cAMP analogues, acting at lower concentrations, and providing stable labeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ongaro
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Ricci
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Antonio Caretta
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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18
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Bontempi P, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Nicolato E, Mucignat-Caretta C, Zancanaro C. A smaller olfactory bulb in a mouse model of Down syndrome. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2020; 80:375-380. [PMID: 33350990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Persons with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) present different phenotypes, including early neurodegeneration, which is prominent in the brain olfactory areas, and olfactory deficit. The use of in vivo techniques in animal models allows to characterize and follow up these slowly developing phenomena. We explored by means of magnetic resonance imaging the olfactory bulb of the Ts65Dn mouse, an established model of Down syndrome, searching for possible syndrome‑related changes. In vivo imaging provided a first glimpse of the trisomic olfactory bulb as compared to euploid one. The olfactory bulb volume was smaller in trisomic mice, suggesting that changes in olfactory bulb may be apparent already in the young adult (2‑ to 8‑month‑old) mice, which are amenable to follow‑up in vivo. These findings lead the way to future work aimed at characterizing the Down syndrome‑related development of morphological alterations in the olfactory bulb and relating them to changes in olfactory performance, which were detected in this mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Bontempi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Cisterna
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Nicolato
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Centro Piattaforme Tecnologiche dell'Università di Verona,Verona, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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19
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Bontempi P, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Nicolato E, Mucignat-Caretta C, Zancanaro C. A smaller olfactory bulb in a mouse model of Down syndrome. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2020. [DOI: 10.21307/ane-2020-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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20
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Caretta A, Denaro L, D'Avella D, Mucignat-Caretta C. Protein Kinase A Distribution in Meningioma. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111686. [PMID: 31671850 PMCID: PMC6895821 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulation of intracellular signal transduction pathways is a hallmark of cancer cells, clearly differentiating them from healthy cells. Differential intracellular distribution of the cAMP-dependent protein kinases (PKA) was previously detected in cell cultures and in vivo in glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. Our goal is to extend this observation to meningioma, to explore possible differences among tumors of different origins and prospective outcomes. The distribution of regulatory and catalytic subunits of PKA has been examined in tissue specimens obtained during surgery from meningioma patients. PKA RI subunit appeared more evenly distributed throughout the cytoplasm, but it was clearly detectable only in some tumors. RII was present in discrete spots, presumably at high local concentration; these aggregates could also be visualized under equilibrium binding conditions with fluorescent 8-substituted cAMP analogues, at variance with normal brain tissue and other brain tumors. The PKA catalytic subunit showed exactly overlapping pattern to RII and in fixed sections could be visualized by fluorescent cAMP analogues. Gene expression analysis showed that the PKA catalytic subunit revealed a significant correlation pattern with genes involved in meningioma. Hence, meningioma patients show a distinctive distribution pattern of PKA regulatory and catalytic subunits, different from glioblastoma, medulloblastoma, and healthy brain tissue. These observations raise the possibility of exploiting the PKA intracellular pathway as a diagnostic tool and possible therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Caretta
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy.
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Roma, Italy.
| | - Luca Denaro
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy.
| | - Domenico D'Avella
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova 35121, Italy.
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Roma, Italy.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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21
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Ricatti J, Acquasaliente L, Ribaudo G, De Filippis V, Bellini M, Llovera RE, Barollo S, Pezzani R, Zagotto G, Persaud KC, Mucignat-Caretta C. Effects of point mutations in the binding pocket of the mouse major urinary protein MUP20 on ligand affinity and specificity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:300. [PMID: 30670733 PMCID: PMC6342991 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The mouse Major Urinary Proteins (MUPs) contain a conserved β-barrel structure with a characteristic central hydrophobic pocket that binds a variety of volatile compounds. After release of urine, these molecules are slowly emitted in the environment where they play an important role in chemical communication. MUPs are highly polymorphic and conformationally stable. They may be of interest in the construction of biosensor arrays capable of detection of a broad range of analytes. In this work, 14 critical amino acids in the binding pocket involved in ligand interactions were identified in MUP20 using in silico techniques and 7 MUP20 mutants were synthesised and characterised to produce a set of proteins with diverse ligand binding profiles to structurally different ligands. A single amino acid substitution in the binding pocket can dramatically change the MUPs binding affinity and ligand specificity. These results have great potential for the design of new biosensor and gas-sensor recognition elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimena Ricatti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Cell Biology and Neuroscience Institute, University of Buenos Aires-National Scientific and Technical Council (UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Acquasaliente
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Filippis
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marino Bellini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Ramiro Esteban Llovera
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Cell Biology, National Scientific and Technical Council (CONICET) and Department of Science and Technology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Susi Barollo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Krishna C Persaud
- School of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Science, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy. .,National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Rome, Italy.
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22
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Denaro L, D'Avella D, Caretta A. Protein Kinase A Distribution Differentiates Human Glioblastoma from Brain Tissue. Cancers (Basel) 2017; 10:cancers10010002. [PMID: 29267253 PMCID: PMC5789352 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumor glioblastoma has no clear molecular signature and there is no effective therapy. In rodents, the intracellular distribution of the cyclic AMP (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase (Protein kinase A, PKA) R2Alpha subunit was previously shown to differentiate tumor cells from healthy brain cells. Now, we aim to validate this observation in human tumors. The distribution of regulatory (R1 and R2) and catalytic subunits of PKA was examined via immunohistochemistry and Western blot in primary cell cultures and biopsies from 11 glioblastoma patients. Data were compared with information obtained from 17 other different tumor samples. The R1 subunit was clearly detectable only in some samples. The catalytic subunit was variably distributed in the different tumors. Similar to rodent tumors, all human glioblastoma specimens showed perinuclear R2 distribution in the Golgi area, while it was undetectable outside the tumor. To test the effect of targeting PKA as a therapeutic strategy, the intracellular cyclic AMP concentration was modulated with different agents in four human glioblastoma cell lines. A significant increase in cell death was detected after increasing cAMP levels or modulating PKA activity. These data raise the possibility of targeting the PKA intracellular pathway for the development of diagnostic and/or therapeutic tools for human glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova 35131, Italy.
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome 00136, Italy.
| | - Luca Denaro
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova 35131, Italy.
| | - Domenico D'Avella
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova 35131, Italy.
| | - Antonio Caretta
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Rome 00136, Italy.
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma 43121, Italy.
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23
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Pavan V, Ribaudo G, Zorzan M, Redaelli M, Pezzani R, Mucignat-Caretta C, Zagotto G. Antiproliferative activity of Juglone derivatives on rat glioma. Nat Prod Res 2016; 31:632-638. [PMID: 27465779 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2016.1214830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are aggressive and life-threatening tumours that still show a poor prognosis: the current therapeutic approach based on surgical resection and chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy does not provide a satisfactory chance of long-term survival to patients. Natural bioactive compounds represent a precious source of molecules with antiproliferative activity, potentially effective also against glioma cells. Among these, Juglone is a known allelopathic compound extracted from the eastern black walnut (Juglans nigra) whose antimitotic effect has been extensively described in mammalian cells. We investigated the antiproliferative effect of a synthetic derivative of this natural compound, 2-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-8-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (DiNAF), in rat glioma cells. We compared this molecule and its effect with the natural reference compound and with newly synthesised derivatives to build a preliminar structure-activity relationship. Biological assays and NMR-based redox experiments confirmed that DiNAF is a promising lead and supported the hypothesis of a redox mechanism underlying its cytotoxic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pavan
- a Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- a Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Maira Zorzan
- b Department of Molecular Medicine , University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Marco Redaelli
- b Department of Molecular Medicine , University of Padova , Padova , Italy.,d AIROB , Italian Association for Basic Oncological Research , Padova , Italy
| | - Raffaele Pezzani
- c Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences-Operative Unit of Endocrinology , University of Padova , Padova , Italy.,d AIROB , Italian Association for Basic Oncological Research , Padova , Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- a Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences , University of Padova , Padova , Italy
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24
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Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most lethal brain tumor. The poor prognosis results from lack of defined tumor margins, critical location of the tumor mass and presence of chemo- and radio-resistant tumor stem cells. The current treatment for glioblastoma consists of neurosurgery, followed by radiotherapy and temozolomide chemotherapy. A better understanding of the role of molecular and genetic heterogeneity in glioblastoma pathogenesis allowed the design of novel targeted therapies. New targets include different key-role signaling molecules and specifically altered pathways. The new approaches include interference through small molecules or monoclonal antibodies and RNA-based strategies mediated by siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides and ribozymes. Most of these treatments are still being tested yet they stay as solid promises for a clinically relevant success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira Zorzan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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25
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Ribaudo G, Pagano MA, Pavan V, Redaelli M, Zorzan M, Pezzani R, Mucignat-Caretta C, Vendrame T, Bova S, Zagotto G. Semi-synthetic derivatives of natural isoflavones from Maclura pomifera as a novel class of PDE-5A inhibitors. Fitoterapia 2015; 105:132-8. [PMID: 26136059 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2015.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Natural (iso)flavonoids have been recently reported to inhibit cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs) and induce vasorelaxation, albeit the results described in the literature are discordant. The cGMP-selective isoform PDE-5A, in particular, represents the target of sildenafil and its analogues in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary hypertension by promoting relaxation in vascular smooth muscle through the activation of the NO/cGMP pathway. We undertook this study to verify if osajin and pomiferin, two natural prenylated isoflavones and major constituents of Maclura pomifera extracts previously investigated for their anticancer, antibacterial and antidiabetic properties, show inhibitory activity on PDE-5A. These two isoflavones were isolated from the plant extracts and then synthetically modified to obtain a set of semi-synthetic derivatives with slight and focused modifications on the natural scaffold. The compounds were at first screened against PDE-5A in vitro and, based on the encouraging results, further tested for their relaxant effect on isolated rat artery rings. Computational docking studies were also carried out to explore the mode of interaction with the target protein. The obtained data were compared to the behaviour of the well-known PDE-5A inhibitor sildenafil. Our results demonstrate that semi-synthetic derivatives of osajin and pomiferin show an inhibitory effect on the isolated enzyme that, for some of the compounds, is accompanied by a vasorelaxant activity. Based on our findings, we propose the here described isoflavones as potential lead compounds for the development, starting from natural scaffolds, of a new class of PDE-5A inhibitors with vasorelaxant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Mario Angelo Pagano
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Valeria Pavan
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Redaelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Maira Zorzan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Sergio Bova
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Pavan V, Mucignat-Caretta C, Redaelli M, Ribaudo G, Zagotto G. The Old Made New: Natural Compounds against Erectile Dysfunction. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2015; 348:607-14. [PMID: 25974223 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.201500075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The interest toward sex-related diseases keeps growing through the years. In this review, we focus our attention on erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition that caught much attention especially after the introduction on the market of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors such as the well-known sildenafil. Here, we briefly describe both the etiology of ED and the available treatments, examining then extensively some natural derivatives that, coming from traditional medicine, could represent promising starting points for the development of alternative remedies. In fact, herbal remedies from several parts of the world have been traditionally known for long, and were recently reconsidered and are now being studied to demonstrate their eventual potential in the treatment of ED. Among the various examples reported in the literature and reviewed here, plants and extracts containing polyphenols—especially a class of compounds called kraussianones—appear to be particularly effective and promising against ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pavan
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Marco Redaelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Redaelli M, Mucignat-Caretta C, Isse AA, Gennaro A, Pezzani R, Pasquale R, Pavan V, Crisma M, Ribaudo G, Zagotto G. New naphthoquinone derivatives against glioma cells. Eur J Med Chem 2015; 96:458-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Revised: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Redaelli M, Ricatti MJ, Simonetto M, Claus M, Ballabio M, Caretta A, Mucignat-Caretta C. Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors improve micturition control in mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121883. [PMID: 25812116 PMCID: PMC4374881 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor micturition control may cause profound distress, because proper voiding is mandatory for an active social life. Micturition results from the subtle interplay of central and peripheral components. It involves the coordination of autonomic and neuromuscular activity at the brainstem level, under the executive control of the prefrontal cortex. We tested the hypothesis that administration of molecules acting as reuptake inhibitors of serotonin, noradrenaline or both may exert a strong effect on the control of urine release, in a mouse model of overactive bladder. Mice were injected with cyclophosphamide (40 mg/kg), to increase micturition acts. Mice were then given one of four molecules: the serotonin reuptake inhibitor imipramine, its metabolite desipramine that acts on noradrenaline reuptake, the serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor duloxetine or its active metabolite 4-hydroxy-duloxetine. Cyclophosphamide increased urine release without inducing overt toxicity or inflammation, except for increase in urothelium thickness. All the antidepressants were able to decrease the cyclophosphamide effects, as apparent from longer latency to the first micturition act, decreased number of urine spots and volume of released urine. These results suggest that serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors exert a strong and effective modulatory effect on the control of urine release and prompt to additional studies on their central effects on brain areas involved in the social and behavioral control of micturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Redaelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Roma, Italy
| | - María Jimena Ricatti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Institute, University of Buenos Aires—National Scientific and Technical Council (UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Mirko Claus
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Caretta
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Roma, Italy
- Pharmaceutical Department, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Roma, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Ottaviano G, Frasson G, Favero V, Boato M, Schembri E, Marchese-Ragona R, Mucignat-Caretta C, Stellini E, Staffieri A, Favero L. N-butanol olfactory threshold and nasal patency before and after palatal expansion in children. A preliminary study. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2014; 78:1618-23. [PMID: 25081605 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2014.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Revised: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Olfaction is based on the function of the nasal olfactory receptors. Children can well detect and respond to odors in order to have information about food and environment. Rapid maxillary expansion seems to improve dental class and increase nasal patency correcting oral respiration in children. Nevertheless, there are no studies demonstrating that expansion in pediatric patients could influence olfactory sensitivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate olfactory threshold and nasal patency in children aged from 6 to 12 years before and after rapid maxillary expansion. METHOD N-butanol olfactory thresholds, anterior active rhinomanometry, and peak nasal inspiratory flow were measured in 12 children (6-12 years) before (T0), 20 days (T1), and 6 months after rapid maxillary expansion application (T2). RESULTS A significant lower olfactory threshold was found comparing T2 and T0 N-butanol olfactory threshold values (p=0.038). Peak nasal inspiratory flow showed a significant improvement both at T1 and T2, with respect to T0 values (p=0.043 and p=0.0001, respectively). T2 nasal resistances showed a trend towards a significant reduction when compared with T1 values (p=0.15). CONCLUSION This pilot study suggested that rapid maxillary expansion may lead to improved N-butanol olfactory thresholds, at least 6 months after palatal expansion. Furthermore, rapid maxillary expansion seems to improve peak nasal inspiratory flow values, and finally although with lower sensitivity, reduce nasal resistances as measured by rhinomanometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ottaviano
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - G Frasson
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - V Favero
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry and Maxillofacial Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - M Boato
- Department of Neurosciences, Odontostomatology Institute, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - E Schembri
- Department of Neurosciences, Odontostomatology Institute, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - R Marchese-Ragona
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - E Stellini
- Department of Neurosciences, Odontostomatology Institute, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - A Staffieri
- Department of Neurosciences, Otolaryngology Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - L Favero
- Department of Neurosciences, Odontostomatology Institute, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Redaelli M, Orsetti A, Zagotto G, Cavaggioni A, Mucignat-Caretta C. Airborne molecules released from male mouse urine affect female exploratory behavior. Front Ecol Evol 2014. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2014.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Barollo S, Pezzani R, Cristiani A, Redaelli M, Zambonin L, Rubin B, Bertazza L, Zane M, Mucignat-Caretta C, Bulfone A, Pennelli G, Casal Ide E, Pelizzo MR, Mantero F, Moro S, Mian C. Prevalence, tumorigenic role, and biochemical implications of rare BRAF alterations. Thyroid 2014; 24:809-19. [PMID: 24295088 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2013.0403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common malignant tumor of the thyroid gland, accounting for 74-80% of all thyroid cancers. The 1799T>A transversion is an activating mutation of the BRAF oncogene that is common in and specific to conventional PTC. We studied the prevalence, tumorigenic role, and biochemical implications of rare BRAF variants in a large cohort of patients. METHODS A total of 2131 fine-needle aspiration biopsy samples were collected and subjected to BRAF mutation analysis. BRAF genetic variants were analyzed by Western blot, immunofluorescence, and in silico analysis. RESULTS BRAF mutations were found in 50% (347/700) of thyroid cancers (644 PTCs, 22 anaplastic thyroid carcinomas, 34 follicular thyroid carcinomas). They were the classic (c.1799T>A, p.V600E) mutation in 96.8% (336/347) and rare genetic variants in 3.2% (11/347). In all, five infrequent BRAF alterations were detected: (i) c.1795_1797dupACA (p.T599dup); (ii) c.1801A>G (p.K601E); (iii) c.1799_1801delTGA (p.V600_K601>E); (iv) c.1799_1814>A (p.V600_S605>D); and (v) c.1798_1810delinsA (p.V600_W604>R). The last BRAF variant has never been described in the literature. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence both revealed a variegated reactivity pattern, again emphasizing the peculiar role of every specific BRAF genetic alteration. In silico analysis of the samples studied revealed a stabilization of the "active" geometrical conformation of the B-raf enzyme associated with the activated and productive state of the kinase domain. CONCLUSIONS Rare BRAF variants were found in 1.6% of all thyroid malignancies, all clustered around the codon V600, in the binding pocket named A-loop, confirming its crucial role in the enzymatic activation of the B-Raf protein. These mutations were associated mainly with the activation of key effectors in the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, but a simultaneous stimulation of the PI3k/Akt cascade was demonstrated in some cases. The rare BRAF variants were not generally associated with an aggressive behavior of the PTC. To our knowledge, this is the largest series of thyroid cancers analyzed to identify and functionally characterize rare BRAF variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susi Barollo
- 1 Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Padua , Padua, Italy
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Cavaggioni A, Redaelli M, Da Dalt L, Zagotto G, Gabai G. Age and isolation influence steroids release and chemical signaling in male mice. Steroids 2014; 83:10-6. [PMID: 24525008 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2014.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Revised: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Social interactions in mice involve olfactory signals, which convey information about the emitter. In turn, the mouse social and physiological status may modify the release of chemical cues. In this study, the influences of age and social isolation on the endocrine response and the release of chemical signals were investigated in male CD1 mice, allocated into four groups: Young Isolated (from weaning till 60days; N=6), Adult Isolated (till 180days; N=6), Young Grouped (6 mice/cage; till 60days; N=18), Adult Grouped (6 mice/cage; till 180days; N=18). Mice were transferred in a clean cage to observe the micturition pattern and then sacrificed. Body and organs weights, serum testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, corticosterone and the ratio Major Urinary Protein/creatinine were measured. Urinary volatile molecules potentially involved in pheromonal communication were identified. Androgen secretion was greater in isolated mice (P<0.05), suggesting a greater reactivity of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal axis. Grouped mice presented a higher degree of adrenal activity, and young mice showed a higher serum corticosterone (P<0.05) suggesting a greater stimulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis. The micturition pattern typical of dominant male, consisting in voiding numerous droplets, was observed in Young Isolated mice only, which showed a higher protein/creatinine ratio (P<0.05). Urinary 2-s-butyl-thiazoline was higher in both Young and Adult Isolated mice (P<0.005). Young Isolated mice showed the most prominent difference in both micturition pattern and potentially active substance emission, while long term isolation resulted in a less extreme phenotype; therefore social isolation had a higher impact on young mice hormone and pheromone release.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Cavaggioni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Redaelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Da Dalt
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Gabai
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
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Pezzani R, Rubin B, Redaelli M, Radu C, Barollo S, Cicala MV, Salvà M, Mian C, Mucignat-Caretta C, Simioni P, Iacobone M, Mantero F. The antiproliferative effects of ouabain and everolimus on adrenocortical tumor cells. Endocr J 2014; 61:41-53. [PMID: 24153038 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej13-0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ouabain is a cardiotonic steroid obtained from Strophanthus. Recently its role as antiproliferative agent has been investigated in tumor cells. Everolimus is a derivative of rapamycin and acts as a signal transduction inhibitor. Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare cancer, with poor prognosis. This research focuses on antineoplastic properties of ouabain and its association with everolimus. We analyzed the effects of drugs on cells by MTT assay, by [(3)H] thymidine assay, by Wright's staining, by homogeneous caspases assay, by flow cytometry analysis and by Western blot analysis on H295R and SW13 cells and on primary adrenocortical tumor cells. Ouabain induced cell viability reduction in SW13, H295R and 5 primary adrenocortical tumor cells. Combination of ouabain with everolimus produced a stronger cytotoxic effect on cell proliferation and viability. Marked morphological changes were observed in both SW13 and H295R cell lines after ouabain treatment, with an increase in necrosis. Cell cycle distribution was altered by ouabain in SW13. Analysis of apoptosis demonstrated an increase in caspase activity, clearly evident for SW13 at 72h. FACS analysis by Annexin V-FITC kit and propidium iodide confirmed an increased level of necrosis at higher concentrations. Western blot analysis showed that PI3k/Akt signaling pathway was modified after ouabain treatments in SW13. Ouabain exerts antiproliferative effects on SW13 and H295R cell lines and on primary adrenocortical tumor cells. These data suggest that ouabain or ouabain derivatives may be potential anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Pezzani
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Redaelli M, Caretta A. One nose, one brain: contribution of the main and accessory olfactory system to chemosensation. Front Neuroanat 2012; 6:46. [PMID: 23162438 PMCID: PMC3494019 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2012.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The accessory olfactory system is present in most tetrapods. It is involved in the perception of chemical stimuli, being implicated also in the detection of pheromones. However, it is sensitive also to some common odorant molecules, which have no clear implication in intraspecific chemical communication. The accessory olfactory system may complement the main olfactory system and may contribute different perceptual features to the construction of a unitary representation, which merges the different chemosensory qualities. Crosstalk between the main and accessory olfactory systems occurs at different levels of central processing, in brain areas where the inputs from the two systems converge. Interestingly, centrifugal projections from more caudal brain areas are deeply involved in modulating both main and accessory sensory processing. A high degree of interaction between the two systems may be conceived and partial overlapping appears to occur in many functions. Therefore, the central chemosensory projections merge inputs from different organs to obtain a complex chemosensory picture.
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35
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Bolognin S, Pasqualetto F, Mucignat-Caretta C, Scancar J, Milacic R, Zambenedetti P, Cozzi B, Zatta P. Effects of a copper-deficient diet on the biochemistry, neural morphology and behavior of aged mice. PLoS One 2012; 7:e47063. [PMID: 23071712 PMCID: PMC3468563 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0047063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Accepted: 09/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Copper dyshomeostasis has been suggested as an aetiological risk factor for some neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, the precise mechanism at the base of this involvement is still obscure. In this work, we show the effects of a copper-deficient diet in aged CD1 mice and the influence of such a diet on: a) the concentration of various metal ions (aluminium, copper, iron, calcium, zinc) in the main organs and in different brain areas; b) the alteration of metallothioneins I-II and tyrosine hydroxylase immunopositivity in the brain; c) behavioural tests (open field, pole, predatory aggression, and habituation/dishabituation smell tests). Our data suggested that the copper-deficiency was able to produce a sort of “domino effect” which altered the concentration of the other tested metal ions in the main organs as well as in the brain, without, however, significantly affecting the animal behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bolognin
- CNR-Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Metalloproteins Unit, Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Federica Pasqualetto
- CNR-Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Metalloproteins Unit, Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Janez Scancar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Radmila Milacic
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Bruno Cozzi
- Department of Experimental Veterinary Science, University of Padova, Legnaro (PD), Italy
- * E-mail: (PZ); (BC)
| | - Paolo Zatta
- CNR-Institute for Biomedical Technologies, Metalloproteins Unit, Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- * E-mail: (PZ); (BC)
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Merigo F, Mucignat-Caretta C, Cristofoletti M, Zancanaro C. Epithelial membrane transporters expression in the developing to adult mouse vomeronasal organ and olfactory mucosa. Dev Neurobiol 2012; 71:854-69. [PMID: 21721139 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
To contribute clarifying mechanisms operating in nose chemosensory epithelia and their developmental patterns, we analyzed the expression of different epithelial membrane transporters as well as the Clara cell secretory protein, CC26 in the olfactory, vomeronasal organ (VNO), and respiratory epithelia of embryonic (E13-E19) and postnatal (P1-P60) mice by means of immunohistochemistry and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Results showed that CC26, cAMP-activated chloride channel (CFTR), and the water channel protein aquaporin 2, 3, 4, and 5 (AQP2, AQP3, AQP4, and AQP5) are expressed in developing to adult chemosensory epithelia with differential timing; moreover, their pattern of expression is not identical in VNO and olfactory epithelia as well as the corresponding associated glands; co-localization experiments using olfactory marker protein showed that CFTR, CC26, and AQP4 are not expressed in olfactory neurones. CFTR is expressed in sustentacular cells of the VNO and olfactory epithelium as well as blood vessels of the underlying mucosa, and VNO (but not Bowman's) glands; a similar pattern (excluding blood vessels) is present for AQP2; AQP4 is found in the two chemosensory epithelia and in Bowman's glands. AQP3 is expressed in the olfactory epithelium and the associated Bowman's glands, but not in the VNO chemosensory epithelium and glands. AQP5 is expressed in the olfactory epithelium and both Bowman's and VNO glands. These results indicate that water/ions handling as well as antioxidant mechanisms operating at the surface and/or inside the nose chemosensory epithelia start developing in utero and are maintained up to sexual maturity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Merigo
- Department of Neurological, Neuropsychological, Morphological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona I-37134, Italy
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Redaelli M, Franceschi V, Capocefalo A, D'Avella D, Denaro L, Cavirani S, Mucignat-Caretta C, Donofrio G. Herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase-armed bovine herpesvirus type 4-based vector displays enhanced oncolytic properties in immunocompetent orthotopic syngenic mouse and rat glioma models. Neuro Oncol 2012; 14:288-301. [PMID: 22228853 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nor219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are devastating tumors of the brain resistant to therapies. Although some therapies can prolong the survival time among the affected persons, gliomas are not curable and new therapeutic approaches need to be investigated. Oncolytic viruses seem to represent an interesting alternative, because anticancer agents and new viral agents have to be explored to identify the one with the best characteristics. Bovine herpesvirus type 4 (BoHV-4) is a gammaherpesvirus with a striking tropism and permissive replication toward cancer cells and rat, mouse, and human glioma cells. However, BoHV-4 does not replicate into the normal brain parenchyma. The BoHV-4 genome was cloned as a bacterial artificial chromosome to easily manipulate this large genome and be used as a viral vector platform. In the present study, a herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase suicide gene-armed BoHV-4 was constructed, characterized, and proven to be highly efficient in killing by apoptosis glioma cells in vitro when co-administered with the pro-drug ganciclovir (GCV). When the armed BoHV-4/GCV therapeutic approach was tested in immunocompetent orthotopic syngenic mouse and rat glioma models in vivo, a significant increase in survival among the treated animals was achieved, and some animals were completely cured. The BoHV-4-based vector represents a promising alternative oncolytic virus for glioma and, perhaps, other types of cancer treatment that merit further investigation. This article represents the result of a mutual interaction between human medical science and veterinary science, a combination of scientific knowledge often neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Redaelli
- Dipartimento di Salute Animale, Sezione di Malattie Infettive degli Animali, Università di Parma, via del Taglio 8-43126 Parma, Italy
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Caretta A. Aggregates of cAMP-dependent kinase isoforms characterize different areas in the developing central nervous system of the chicken, Gallus gallus. Dev Neurosci 2011; 33:144-58. [PMID: 21876332 DOI: 10.1159/000329546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2010] [Accepted: 05/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The intracellular second messenger adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) acts mainly through cAMP-dependent protein kinases (PKA). In mammals and reptiles, the PKA regulatory isoforms (RI and RII) are differentially distributed among the various brain areas and cell types, according to the age of the animal. Since PKA distribution may be an additional marker for homologous areas, PKA regulatory subunit types RI and RII were examined in the chicken brain, a species not yet investigated. Chicken brains were examined from prehatching to adult age, by means of immunohistochemistry and biochemical characterization. Most PKA regulatory subunits were segregated in discrete non-soluble clusters that contained either RI or RII. While RII aggregates were present also in non-neuronal cells, RI aggregates were detected only in neurons of some brain areas that are mainly related to the telencephalon. They appeared later than RII aggregates; their presence and location varied during development. RI aggregates were detected first in the olfactory bulb, around embryonic day 14; within 3 days they appeared in the hyperpallium and nidopallium, where the most intense labeling was observed in the perihatching period. Fainter RI aggregates persisted up to 3 years in the olfactory bulb and nidopallium caudale. Less intense RI aggregates were present for a shorter time, from 2 weeks to 3 months, in the septal nuclei, thalamic medial nuclei, periventricular hypothalamus, optic tectum periventricular area, brainstem reticular formation and spinal cord substantia gelatinosa. RI aggregates were not detected in many brain areas including the arcopallium, striatum and cranial nerve nuclei. RII distribution showed less variation during development. From embryonic day 12, some insoluble RII aggregates were detected in the brain; however, only minor modifications were observed in positive structures once they started to harbor insoluble RII aggregates. The present results suggest that the distribution of PKA aggregates may assist in characterizing phylogenetically homologous structures of the vertebrate central nervous system and may also unravel biochemical differences among areas considered homologous.
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Rubini A, Bondì M, Mucignat-Caretta C. Effects of cysteinyl-leukotriene receptors' antagonism by montelukast on lung mechanics and olfactory system histology in healthy mice. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2011; 27:521-7. [PMID: 21827367 DOI: 10.3109/14756366.2011.599031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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
CONTEXT At variance with steroid administration, the possible effects of leukotrienes inhibition on basal respiratory mechanics and olfactory system function are still unclear. OBJECTIVE To investigate if interference with the leukotrienes activity may influence basal lung mechanics in healthy mammals, as well as the olfactory system. MATERIALS AND METHODS We measured lung mechanics by the end-inflation occlusion method in control and in montelukast i.p. treated anaesthetised healthy mice (10 mg/kg/die for a week). A study of olfactory system histology was also conducted. RESULTS Elastance and resistive properties of the lung were not affected by montelukast, while a significant increment of lung hysteresis was observed. The analysis of olfactory system histology revealed no significant effects of montelukast compared to controls. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Leukotrienes' antagonism does not affect respiratory mechanics in basal conditions, except for a hysteresis increment, which might counteract the increase in expiratory flow in asthmatic subjects assuming montelukast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rubini
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, Section of Physiology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Zagotto G, Redaelli M, Pasquale R, D’Avella D, Cozza G, Denaro L, Pizzato F, Mucignat-Caretta C. 8-Hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione derivative as novel compound for glioma treatment. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2011; 21:2079-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2011.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Revised: 01/29/2011] [Accepted: 02/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Franceschi V, Capocefalo A, Calvo-Pinilla E, Redaelli M, Mucignat-Caretta C, Mertens P, Ortego J, Donofrio G. Immunization of knock-out α/β interferon receptor mice against lethal bluetongue infection with a BoHV-4-based vector expressing BTV-8 VP2 antigen. Vaccine 2011; 29:3074-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.01.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Revised: 01/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Redaelli M, Mucignat-Caretta C, Cavaggioni A, Caretta A, D'Avella D, Denaro L, Cavirani S, Donofrio G. Bovine herpesvirus 4 based vector as a potential oncolytic-virus for treatment of glioma. Virol J 2010; 7:298. [PMID: 21047419 PMCID: PMC2984596 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-7-298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of gene therapy for malignant gliomas is still under study and the use of specific vectors represents an important contribution. Here, we investigated bovine herpesvirus 4 (BoHV-4), which is non-pathogenic if injected into the rodent brain. We show that the vector can infect mouse, rat and human glioma cell lines and primary cultures obtained from human glioblastoma in vitro. BoHV-4 was injected into a tumour grown in rat brain. Although virus expression was scattered across the tumour mass, it was mainly located in the peripheral area of larger gliomas. These data support BoHV-4 as a candidate vector for glioma treatment.
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Mucignat-Caretta C. The rodent accessory olfactory system. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2010; 196:767-77. [PMID: 20607541 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-010-0555-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2009] [Revised: 06/10/2010] [Accepted: 06/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The accessory olfactory system contributes to the perception of chemical stimuli in the environment. This review summarizes the structure of the accessory olfactory system, the stimuli that activate it, and the responses elicited in the receptor cells and in the brain. The accessory olfactory system consists of a sensory organ, the vomeronasal organ, and its central projection areas: the accessory olfactory bulb, which is connected to the amygdala and hypothalamus, and also to the cortex. In the vomeronasal organ, several receptors-in contrast to the main olfactory receptors-are sensitive to volatile or nonvolatile molecules. In a similar manner to the main olfactory epithelium, the vomeronasal organ is sensitive to common odorants and pheromones. Each accessory olfactory bulb receives input from the ipsilateral vomeronasal organ, but its activity is modulated by centrifugal projections arising from other brain areas. The processing of vomeronasal stimuli in the amygdala involves contributions from the main olfactory system, and results in long-lasting responses that may be related to the activation of the hypothalamic-hypophyseal axis over a prolonged timeframe. Different brain areas receive inputs from both the main and the accessory olfactory systems, possibly merging the stimulation of the two sensory organs to originate a more complex and integrated chemosensory perception.
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Redaelli M, Orsetti A, Perriat-Sanguinet M, Zagotto G, Ganem G. Urinary volatile molecules vary in males of the 2 European subspecies of the house mouse and their hybrids. Chem Senses 2010; 35:647-54. [PMID: 20530376 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjq049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mice recognize other mice by identifying chemicals that confer a molecular signature to urinary marks. Such molecules may be involved in species recognition, and previous behavioral studies have related divergence of sexual preference between 2 subspecies of the house mouse (Mus musculus musculus and Mus musculus domesticus) to urinary odors. To characterize the differences between odors of males of the 2 subspecies and their first-generation offspring, the urinary volatile molecules were examined via gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Seven molecules were present in the samples from mice of at least one group. Their quantity varied among groups: M. m. domesticus showed a quantitatively richer panel of odorants in their urine when compared with M. m. musculus. The hybrids showed a more complex picture that was not directly related to one or the other parental subspecies. These quantitative differences may contribute to the specificity of the odorant bouquet of the 2 subspecies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Denaro L, Redaelli M, D'Avella D, Caretta A. Protein kinase A regulatory subunit distribution in medulloblastoma. BMC Cancer 2010; 10:141. [PMID: 20398275 PMCID: PMC2859386 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-10-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2009] [Accepted: 04/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies showed a differential distribution of the four regulatory subunits of cAMP-dependent protein kinases inside the brain, that changed in rodent gliomas: therefore, the distribution of these proteins inside the brain can give information on the functional state of the cells. Our goal was to examine human brain tumors to provide evidence for a differential distribution of protein kinase A in different tumors. Methods The distribution of detergent insoluble regulatory (R1 and R2) and catalytic subunits of cAMP dependent kinases was examined in pediatric brain tumors by immunohistochemistry and fluorescent cAMP analogues binding. Results R2 is organized in large single dots in medulloblastomas, while it has a different appearance in other tumors. Fluorescent cAMP labelling was observed only in medulloblastoma. Conclusions A different distribution of cAMP dependent protein kinases has been observed in medulloblastoma.
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Bondí M, Rubini A, Calabrese F, Barbato A. The olfactory system is affected by steroid aerosol treatment in mice. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2009; 297:L1073-81. [PMID: 19801453 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00014.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma needs continuous treatment often for years. In humans, some drugs are administered via aerosol, therefore they come in contact with both respiratory and olfactory mucosa. We explored the possibility that antiasthma corticosteroid treatment could influence the olfactory function by passage through the nose. A group of mice was exposed twice daily for 42 days to fluticasone propionate aerosol and was compared with a control group. Olfactory behavior, respiratory mechanics, histology, and immunoreactivity in the olfactory system were assessed. Fluticasone-treated mice were slower in retrieving a piece of hidden food, but both groups were similarly fast when the food was visible. When a clearly detectable odor was present in the environment, all mice behaved in a similar way. Respiratory mechanics indices were similar in all mice except for the viscose resistance, which was reduced in fluticasone-treated mice. Olfactory mucosa of fluticasone-treated mice was thicker than that of controls. Slight but consistent differences in staining were present for Olfactory Marker Protein but not for other proteins. A mild impairment of olfactory function is present in mice chronically treated with fluticasone aerosol, apparently accompanied by slight modifications of the olfactory receptor cells, and suggests monitoring of olfactory function modifications in long-term steroid users.
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Cavaggioni A, Redaelli M, Malatesta M, Zancanaro C, Caretta A. Selective distribution of protein kinase A regulatory subunit RII{alpha} in rodent gliomas. Neuro Oncol 2008; 10:958-67. [PMID: 18708342 DOI: 10.1215/15228517-2008-054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Differential diagnosis of brain tumor types is mainly based on cell morphology and could benefit from additional markers. The cAMP second-messenger system is involved in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation and is conceivably modulated during cancer transformation. The cAMP second-messenger system mainly activates protein kinases, which are in part docked to cytoskeleton, membranes, or organelles by anchoring proteins, forming protein aggregates that are detergent insoluble and not freely diffusible and that are characteristic for each cell type. The intracellular distribution of the detergent-insoluble regulatory subunits (R) of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase has been examined in mouse and rat glioma cells both in vitro and in vivo by immunohistochemistry. In normal rodent brains, the RIIalpha regulatory subunit is detergent insoluble only in ependymal cells, while in the rest of the brain it is present in soluble form. Immunohistochemistry shows that in both mouse and rat glioma cell lines, RIIalpha is mainly detergent insoluble. RIIalpha is localized close to the nucleus, associated with smooth vesicles in the trans-Golgi network area. Both paclitaxel and vinblastine cause a redistribution of RIIalpha within the cell. Under conditions that increased intracellular cAMP, apoptosis of glioma cells was observed, and it was accompanied by RIIalpha redistribution. Also in vivo, detergent-insoluble RIIalpha can be observed in mouse and rat gliomas, where it delineates the border between normal brain tissue and glioma. Therefore, intracellular distribution of detergent-insoluble RIIalpha can assist in detecting tumor cells within the brain, thus making the histologic diagnosis of brain tumors more accurate, and may represent an additional target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Mucignat-Caretta
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 3, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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Cavaggioni A, Mucignat-Caretta C, Redaelli M. Mice Recognize Recent Urine Scent Marks by the Molecular Composition. Chem Senses 2008; 33:655-63. [DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bjn035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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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Redaelli M, Cavaggioni A, Mucignat-Caretta C, Cavirani S, Caretta A, Donofrio G. Transduction of the rat brain by Bovine Herpesvirus 4. Genet Vaccines Ther 2008; 6:6. [PMID: 18267037 PMCID: PMC2259350 DOI: 10.1186/1479-0556-6-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2007] [Accepted: 02/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Bovine herpesvirus 4 (BoHV-4) is a gamma-herpesvirus with no clear disease association. A recombinant BoHV-4 (BoHV-4EGFP Delta TK) expressing Green Fluorescent Protein (EGFP), was successfully used to infect F98 rat glioma cells. BoHV-4EGFP Delta TK was injected into the lateral ventricle of the rat brain. Histology and immunohistochemistry showed that ependymal and rostral migratory stream cells were transduced while neurons were not. Clinical scores, evaluated for 90 days, indicated that the virus was non neuropathogenic, suggesting this virus is a suitable vector for brain tumor gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Redaelli
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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Mucignat-Caretta C, Caretta A. Distribution of insoluble cAMP-dependent kinase type RI and RII in the lizard and turtle central nervous system. Brain Res 2007; 1154:84-94. [PMID: 17482583 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2006] [Revised: 03/16/2007] [Accepted: 04/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
cAMP is a universal second messenger. In eucaryotes it acts mainly via protein kinases composed of regulatory (R) and catalytic subunits; their subcellular distribution may differ according to the cell type. In rodent brain, peculiar detergent-insoluble RIalpha aggregates were previously described in neurons of areas related to the limbic system, while RIIbeta is more evenly distributed also in non-nervous cells. It is unclear whether the regional distribution of regulatory subunits is typical of mammalian brain. Western blots and immunohistochemistry showed that in lizard brains a large fraction of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulatory isoforms is insoluble, as in mammals. Insoluble RIalpha and RII regulatory isoforms were not evenly distributed but organized in clearly separated aggregates. Numerous RII aggregates were present in almost all brain regions and were found also in non-nervous cells. As shown by immunohistochemistry and equilibrium binding of fluorescently tagged cAMP, RIalpha aggregates were restricted to neurons of some brain regions: telencephalon, particularly medial cortical areas, dorsal ventricular ridge, olfactory pathways, medial hypothalamus and cerebellar granular layer were intensely labelled. A very weak RIalpha labelling was detected in the brainstem reticular formation, in the periaqueductal gray and in the spinal cord dorsal horn. A similar distribution of RIalpha aggregates was also found in turtle brains. Their distribution is reminiscent of that observed in mammals, although with some differences in relative intensity and persistence. The supramolecular organization of the RIalpha isoform may help in establishing homologies and differences between brain areas involved in visceroemotional control.
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