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Mancini M, Bargiacchi L, De Vitis C, D'Ascanio M, De Dominicis C, Ibrahim M, Rendina EA, Ricci A, Di Napoli A, Mancini R, Vecchione A. Histologic Analysis of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis by Morphometric and Fractal Analysis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051483. [PMID: 37239155 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive fibrotic lung disorder, ultimately leading to respiratory failure and death. Despite great research advances in understanding the mechanisms underlying the disease, its diagnosis, and its treatment, IPF still remains idiopathic without known biological or histological markers able to predict disease progression or response to treatment. The histologic hallmark of IPF is usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), with its intricate architectural distortion and temporal inhomogeneity. We hypothesize that normal lung alveolar architecture can be compared to fractals, such as the Pythagoras tree with its fractal dimension (Df), and every pathological insult, distorting the normal lung structure, could result in Df variations. In this study, we aimed to assess the UIP histologic fractal dimension in relationship to other morphometric parameters in newly diagnosed IPF patients and its possible role in the prognostic stratification of the disease. Clinical data and lung tissue specimens were obtained from twelve patients with IPF, twelve patients with non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), and age-matched "healthy" control lung tissue from patients undergoing lung surgery for other causes. Histology and histomorphometry were performed to evaluate Df and lacunarity measures, using the box counting method on the FracLac ImageJ plugin. The results showed that Df was significantly higher in IPF patients compared to controls and fibrotic NSIP patients, indicating greater architectural distortion in IPF. Additionally, high Df values were associated with higher fibroblastic foci density and worse prognostic outcomes in IPF, suggesting that Df may serve as a potential novel prognostic marker for IPF. The scalability of Df measurements was demonstrated through repeated measurements on smaller portions from the same surgical biopsies, which were selected to mimic a cryobiopsy. Our study provides further evidence to support the use of fractal morphometry as a tool for quantifying and determining lung tissue remodeling in IPF, and we demonstrated a significant correlation between histological and radiological Df in UIP pattern, as well as a significant association between Df and FF density. Furthermore, our study demonstrates the scalability and self-similarity of Df measurements across different biopsy types, including surgical and smaller specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Mancini
- Morphologic and Molecular Pathology Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Bargiacchi
- Morphologic and Molecular Pathology Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia De Vitis
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome", 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela D'Ascanio
- UOC Respiratory Disease, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mohsen Ibrahim
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Erino Angelo Rendina
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ricci
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome", 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Di Napoli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome", 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome", 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine Sant'Andrea University Hospital, "Sapienza" University of Rome", 00189 Rome, Italy
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Marcolongo F, Scarlata S, Tomino C, De Dominicis C, Giacconi R, Malavolta M, Bonassi S, Russo P, Prinzi G. Psycho-cognitive assessment and quality of life in older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-carrying the rs4713916 gene polymorphism (G/A) of gene FKBP5 and response to pulmonary rehabilitation: a proof of concept study. Psychiatr Genet 2022; 32:116-124. [PMID: 35102127 DOI: 10.1097/ypg.0000000000000308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by pulmonary and extra-pulmonary multi-morbidity including depression, anxiety and cognitive disorders. Several studies investigated the association of the FKBP5 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders. The FKBP5 gene codifies the FKBP51 protein which modulates the glucocorticoid receptor in the adaptive stress response. Genetic variants of the FKBP5 gene have been associated to a higher risk of developing mental disorders. We analyzed the association of genetic variants and stress exposure investigating the susceptibility to psychological distress and the impact on cognitive balance and quality of life (QoL) of COPD patients carrying the rs4713916 polymorphism (G/A) and we examined its association, with COPD rehabilitative outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS A pilot study evaluated cognitive, psychological, clinical alterations/disorders, QoL, and coping strategies in 70 older adults with COPD, undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation, stratified according to the FKBP5 rs4713916 genotype (GG or GA). RESULTS Carriers of rs4713916 polymorphisms (G/A) show better cognitive performances, a higher degree of independence in the daily living activities, better QoL, no presence of depressive mood and anxiety symptoms, no family history of psychiatric disorders, more ability to cope with stressors by avoiding emotions but demanding emotional support, and lesser use of anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, hypnotic-sedative drugs. No difference was found in the number of comorbidities. CONCLUSION These results offer valuable insights into the role of FKBP5 in the complex network of mechanisms associated to clinical, psychological and behavioral features of COPD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Marcolongo
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta
| | - Simone Scarlata
- Unit of Geriatrics, Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, University, Via Alvaro del Portillo
| | - Carlo Tomino
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, Rome
| | - Robertina Giacconi
- Technology Center for Aging Research, Scientific Technological Area, IRCCS-INRCA, Via Giuseppe Birarelli, Ancona
| | - Marco Malavolta
- Technology Center for Aging Research, Scientific Technological Area, IRCCS-INRCA, Via Giuseppe Birarelli, Ancona
| | - Stefano Bonassi
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele University, Via di Val Cannuta, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Russo
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele University, Via di Val Cannuta, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Prinzi
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta
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3
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Cardinale A, Saladini S, Lupacchini L, Ruspantini I, De Dominicis C, Papale M, Silvagno F, Garaci E, Mollinari C, Merlo D. DNA repair protein DNA-PK protects PC12 cells from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis involving AKT phosphorylation. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 49:1089-1101. [PMID: 34797489 PMCID: PMC8825611 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06934-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Emerging evidence suggest that DNA-PK complex plays a role in the cellular response to oxidative stress, in addition to its function of double strand break (DSB) repair. In this study we evaluated whether DNA-PK participates in oxidative stress response and whether this role is independent of its function in DNA repair. Methods and results We used a model of H2O2-induced DNA damage in PC12 cells (rat pheochromocytoma), a well-known neuronal tumor cell line. We found that H2O2 treatment of PC12 cells induces an increase in DNA-PK protein complex levels, along with an elevation of DNA damage, measured both by the formation of γΗ2ΑX foci, detected by immunofluorescence, and γH2AX levels detected by western blot analysis. After 24 h of cell recovery, γΗ2ΑX foci are repaired both in the absence and presence of DNA-PK kinase inhibitor NU7026, while an increase of apoptotic cells is observed when DNA-PK activity is inhibited, as revealed by counting pycnotic nuclei and confirmed by FACS analysis. Our results suggest a role of DNA-PK as an anti-apoptotic factor in proliferating PC12 cells under oxidative stress conditions. The anti-apoptotic role of DNA-PK is associated with AKT phosphorylation in Ser473. On the contrary, in differentiated PC12 cells, were the main pathway to repair DSBs is DNA-PK-mediated, the inhibition of DNA-PK activity causes an accumulation of DNA damage. Conclusions Taken together, our results show that DNA-PK can protect cells from oxidative stress induced-apoptosis independently from its function of DSB repair enzyme. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Cardinale
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Saladini
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Lupacchini
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Ruspantini
- FAST. Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166, Rome, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Papale
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Silvagno
- Department of Oncology, University Torino, via Santena 5 bis, 10126, Torino, Italy
| | - Enrico Garaci
- University San Raffaele, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Mollinari
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Caruso D, Guido G, Zerunian M, Polidori T, Lucertini E, Pucciarelli F, Polici M, Rucci C, Bracci B, Nicolai M, Cremona A, De Dominicis C, Laghi A. Postacute Sequelae of COVID-19 Pneumonia: 6-month Chest CT Follow-up. Radiology 2021; 301:E396-E405. [PMID: 34313468 PMCID: PMC8335814 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2021210834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background The long-term post acute pulmonary sequelae of COVID-19 remain
unknown. Purpose To evaluate lung injury in patients affected by COVID-19 pneumonia at
six-month follow-up compared to baseline chest CT. Methods From March 19th,2020 to May 24th,2020, patients with moderate to severe
COVID-19 pneumonia and baseline Chest CT were prospectively enrolled at
six-months follow-up. CT qualitative findings, semi-quantitative Lungs
Severity Score (LSS) and well-aerated lung quantitative Chest CT (QCCT)
were analyzed. Baseline LSS and QCCT performances in predicting
fibrotic-like changes (reticular pattern and/or honeycombing) at
six-month follow-up Chest CT were tested with receiver operating
characteristic curves. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression
analysis were used to test clinical and radiological features predictive
of fibrotic-like changes. The multivariable analysis was performed with
clinical parameters alone (clinical model), radiological parameters
alone (radiological model) and the combination of clinical and
radiological parameters (combined model). Results One-hundred-eighteen patients, with both baseline and six-month follow-up
Chest CT, were included in the study (62 female, mean age 65±12
years). At follow-up Chest CT, 85/118 (72%) patients showed
fibrotic-like changes and 49/118 (42%) showed GGOs. Baseline LSS
(>14), QCCT (≤3.75L and ≤80%) showed an
excellent performance in predicting fibrotic-like changes at Chest CT
follow-up. In the multivariable analysis, AUC was .89 (95%CI
.77-.96) for the clinical model, .81 (95%CI .68-.9) for the
radiological model and .92 (95%CI .81-.98)for the combined
model. Conclusion At six-month follow-up Chest CT, 72% of patients showed late
sequelae, in particular fibrotic-like changes. Baseline LSS and QCCT of
well-aerated lung showed an excellent performance in predicting
fibrotic-like changes at six-month Chest CT (AUC>.88). Male sex,
cough, lymphocytosis and QCCT well-aerated lung were significant
predictors of fibrotic-like changes at six-month with an inverse
correlation (AUC .92). See also the editorial by Wells and Devaraj.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Caruso
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Gisella Guido
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Zerunian
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziano Polidori
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Lucertini
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pucciarelli
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Polici
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Rucci
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bracci
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Nicolai
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Cremona
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Laghi
- Institution: Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
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Sciacchitano S, De Vitis C, D'Ascanio M, Giovagnoli S, De Dominicis C, Laghi A, Anibaldi P, Petrucca A, Salerno G, Santino I, Amodeo R, Simmaco M, Napoli C, Tafuri A, Di Napoli A, Sacconi A, Salvati V, Ciliberto G, Fanciulli M, Piaggio G, de Latouliere L, Ricci A, Mancini R. Gene signature and immune cell profiling by high-dimensional, single-cell analysis in COVID-19 patients, presenting Low T3 syndrome and coexistent hematological malignancies. J Transl Med 2021; 19:139. [PMID: 33794925 PMCID: PMC8016508 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02805-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Low T3 syndrome is frequent in patients admitted to intensive care units for critical illness and pneumonia. It has been reported also in patients with COVID-19, Hodgkin disease and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. We analyzed the clinical relevance of Low T3 syndrome in COVID-19 patients and, in particular, in those with associated hematological malignancies. Methods Sixty-two consecutive patients, hospitalized during the first wave of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in Sant’Andrea University Hospital in Rome, were subdivided in 38 patients (Group A), showing low levels of FT3, and in 24 patients (Group B), with normal FT3 serum values. During the acute phase of the disease, we measured serum, radiologic and clinical disease severity markers and scores, in search of possible correlations with FT3 serum values. In addition, in 6 COVID-19 patients, 4 with Low T3 syndrome, including 2 with a hematological malignancy, and 2 with normal FT3 values, we performed, high-dimensional single-cell analysis by mass cytometry, multiplex cytokine assay and gene expression profiling in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Results Low FT3 serum values were correlated with increased Absolute Neutrophil Count, NLR and dNLR ratios and with reduced total count of CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Low FT3 values correlated also with increased levels of inflammation, tissue damage and coagulation serum markers as well as with SOFA, LIPI and TSS scores. The CyTOF analysis demonstrated reduction of the effector memory and terminal effector subtypes of the CD4+ T lymphocytes. Multiplex cytokine assay indicates that mainly IL-6, IP-10 and MCAF changes are associated with FT3 serum levels, particularly in patients with coexistent hematological malignancies. Gene expression analysis using Nanostring identified four genes differently expressed involved in host immune response, namely CD38, CD79B, IFIT3 and NLRP3. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that low FT3 serum levels are associated with severe COVID-19. Our multi-omics approach suggests that T3 is involved in the immune response in COVID-19 and coexistent hematological malignancy and new possible T3 target genes in these patients have been identified. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-02805-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Sciacchitano
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy. .,Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Niccolò Cusano University Foundation, Via Don Carlo Gnocchi, 3, 00166, Rome, Italy.
| | - Claudia De Vitis
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela D'Ascanio
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Giovagnoli
- Division of Pneumology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and of Translational Medicine, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Laghi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and of Translational Medicine, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Anibaldi
- Health Managment Director, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Petrucca
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Gerardo Salerno
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Iolanda Santino
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Amodeo
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Clinical Laboratory, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Simmaco
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and of Translational Medicine, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Agostino Tafuri
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Di Napoli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- UOSD Oncogenomica ed Epigenetica, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Salvati
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Fanciulli
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Piaggio
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa de Latouliere
- UOSD SAFU, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ricci
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Via di Grottarossa, 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
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Ricci A, Pagliuca A, D'Ascanio M, Innammorato M, De Vitis C, Mancini R, Giovagnoli S, Facchiano F, Sposato B, Anibaldi P, Marcolongo A, De Dominicis C, Laghi A, Muscogiuri E, Sciacchitano S. Circulating Vitamin D levels status and clinical prognostic indices in COVID-19 patients. Respir Res 2021; 22:76. [PMID: 33658032 PMCID: PMC7928197 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-021-01666-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several immune mechanisms activate in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Usually, coronavirus infection is characterized by dysregulated host immune responses, interleukine-6 increase, hyper-activation of cytotoxic CD8 T lymphocytes. Interestingly, Vitamin D deficiency has been often associated with altered immune responses and infections. In the present study, we evaluated Vitamin D plasma levels in patients affected with different lung involvement during COVID-19 infection. METHODS Lymphocyte phenotypes were assessed by flow cytometry. Thoracic CT scan involvement was obtained by an image analysis program. RESULTS Vitamin D levels were deficient in (80%) of patients, insufficient in (6.5%) and normal in (13.5%). Patients with very low Vitamin D plasma levels had more elevated D-Dimer values, a more elevated B lymphocyte cell count, a reduction of CD8 + T lymphocytes with a low CD4/CD8 ratio, more compromised clinical findings (measured by LIPI and SOFA scores) and thoracic CT scan involvement. CONCLUSIONS Vitamin D deficiency is associated with compromised inflammatory responses and higher pulmonary involvement in COVID-19 affected patients. Vitamin D assessment, during COVID-19 infection, could be a useful analysis for possible therapeutic interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION 'retrospectively registered'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Ricci
- Respiratory Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di grottarossa, 1035, Rome, Italy.,Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pagliuca
- Respiratory Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di grottarossa, 1035, Rome, Italy.,Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela D'Ascanio
- Respiratory Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di grottarossa, 1035, Rome, Italy.,Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Innammorato
- Respiratory Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di grottarossa, 1035, Rome, Italy. .,Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Francesco Facchiano
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruno Sposato
- Respiratory Unit, Misericordia Hospital, Grosseto, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Salvatore Sciacchitano
- Respiratory Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di grottarossa, 1035, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Biomedical Research, Niccolò Cusano University Foundation, Via Don Carlo Gnocchi 3, 00166, Rome, Italy
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7
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Lupacchini L, Maggi F, Tomino C, De Dominicis C, Mollinari C, Fini M, Bonassi S, Merlo D, Russo P. Nicotine Changes Airway Epithelial Phenotype and May Increase the SARS-COV-2 Infection Severity. Molecules 2020; 26:E101. [PMID: 33379366 PMCID: PMC7794754 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Nicotine is implicated in the SARS-COV-2 infection through activation of the α7-nAChR and over-expression of ACE2. Our objective was to clarify the role of nicotine in SARS-CoV-2 infection exploring its molecular and cellular activity. (2) Methods: HBEpC or si-mRNA-α7-HBEpC were treated for 1 h, 48 h or continuously with 10-7 M nicotine, a concentration mimicking human exposure to a cigarette. Cell viability and proliferation were evaluated by trypan blue dye exclusion and cell counting, migration by cell migration assay, senescence by SA-β-Gal activity, and anchorage-independent growth by cloning in soft agar. Expression of Ki67, p53/phospho-p53, VEGF, EGFR/pEGFR, phospho-p38, intracellular Ca2+, ATP and EMT were evaluated by ELISA and/or Western blotting. (3) Results: nicotine induced through α7-nAChR (i) increase in cell viability, (ii) cell proliferation, (iii) Ki67 over-expression, (iv) phospho-p38 up-regulation, (v) EGFR/pEGFR over-expression, (vi) increase in basal Ca2+ concentration, (vii) reduction of ATP production, (viii) decreased level of p53/phospho-p53, (ix) delayed senescence, (x) VEGF increase, (xi) EMT and consequent (xii) enhanced migration, and (xiii) ability to grow independently of the substrate. (4) Conclusions: Based on our results and on evidence showing that nicotine potentiates viral infection, it is likely that nicotine is involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection and severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Lupacchini
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (C.D.D.)
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, viale Luigi Borri 57, I-21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Carlo Tomino
- Scientific Direction, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy;
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (C.D.D.)
| | - Cristiana Mollinari
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Massimo Fini
- Scientific Direction, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy;
| | - Stefano Bonassi
- Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele University, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Russo
- Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele University, Via di Val Cannuta 247, I-00166 Rome, Italy
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Caruso D, Polici M, Zerunian M, Pucciarelli F, Polidori T, Guido G, Rucci C, Bracci B, Muscogiuri E, De Dominicis C, Laghi A. Quantitative Chest CT analysis in discriminating COVID-19 from non-COVID-19 patients. Radiol Med 2020; 126:243-249. [PMID: 33044733 PMCID: PMC7548413 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-020-01291-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 pneumonia is characterized by ground-glass opacities (GGOs) and consolidations on Chest CT, although these CT features cannot be considered specific, at least on a qualitative analysis. The aim is to evaluate if Quantitative Chest CT could provide reliable information in discriminating COVID-19 from non-COVID-19 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS From March 31, 2020 until April 18, 2020, patients with Chest CT suggestive for interstitial pneumonia were retrospectively enrolled and divided into two groups based on positive/negative COVID-19 RT-PCR results. Patients with pulmonary resection and/or CT motion artifacts were excluded. Quantitative Chest CT analysis was performed with a dedicated software that provides total lung volume, healthy parenchyma, GGOs, consolidations and fibrotic alterations, expressed both in liters and percentage. Two radiologists in consensus revised software analysis and adjusted areas of lung impairment in case of non-adequate segmentation. Data obtained were compared between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients and p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Performance of statistically significant parameters was tested by ROC curve analysis. RESULTS Final population enrolled included 190 patients: 136 COVID-19 patients (87 male, 49 female, mean age 66 ± 16) and 54 non-COVID-19 patients (25 male, 29 female, mean age 63 ± 15). Lung quantification in liters showed significant differences between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients for GGOs (0.55 ± 0.26L vs 0.43 ± 0.23L, p = 0.0005) and fibrotic alterations (0.05 ± 0.03 L vs 0.04 ± 0.03 L, p < 0.0001). ROC analysis of GGOs and fibrotic alterations showed an area under the curve of 0.661 (cutoff 0.39 L, 68% sensitivity and 59% specificity, p < 0.001) and 0.698 (cutoff 0.02 L, 86% sensitivity and 44% specificity, p < 0.001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Quantification of GGOs and fibrotic alterations on Chest CT could be able to identify patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Caruso
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Polici
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Zerunian
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pucciarelli
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziano Polidori
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Gisella Guido
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Rucci
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bracci
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Muscogiuri
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Laghi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189, Rome, Italy.
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Caruso D, Polidori T, Guido G, Nicolai M, Bracci B, Cremona A, Zerunian M, Polici M, Pucciarelli F, Rucci C, Dominicis CD, Girolamo MD, Argento G, Sergi D, Laghi A. Typical and atypical COVID-19 computed tomography findings. World J Clin Cases 2020; 8:3177-3187. [PMID: 32874972 PMCID: PMC7441270 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i15.3177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2019 a novel coronavirus, named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was identified and the disease associated was named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Fever, cough, myalgia, fatigue associated to dyspnea represent most common clinical symptoms of the disease. The reference standard for diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection is real time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test applied on respiratory tract specimens. Despite of lower specificity, chest computed tomography (CT), as reported in manifold scientific studies, showed high sensitivity, therefore it may help in the early detection, management and follow-up of COVID-19 pneumonia. Patients affected by COVID-19 pneumonia usually showed on chest CT some typical features, such as: Bilateral ground glass opacities characterized by multilobe involvement with posterior and peripheral distribution; parenchymal consolidations with or without air bronchogram; interlobular septal thickening; crazy paving pattern, represented by interlobular and intralobular septal thickening surrounded by ground-glass opacities; subsegmental pulmonary vessels enlargement (> 3 mm). Halo sign, reversed halo sign, cavitation and pleural or pericardial effusion represent some of atypical findings of COVID-19 pneumonia. On the other hand lymphadenopathy's and bronchiectasis' frequency is unclear, indeed conflicting data emerged in literature. Radiologists play a key role in recognition of high suspicious findings of COVID-19 on chest CT, both typical and atypical ones. Thus, the aim of this review is to illustrate typical and atypical CT findings of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Caruso
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Tiziano Polidori
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Gisella Guido
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Matteo Nicolai
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bracci
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Antonio Cremona
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Marta Zerunian
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Michela Polici
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Francesco Pucciarelli
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Carlotta Rucci
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Marco Di Girolamo
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Argento
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Daniela Sergi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Andrea Laghi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza”-University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, AOU Sant’Andrea, Rome 00189, Italy
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Caruso D, Zerunian M, Polici M, Pucciarelli F, Polidori T, Rucci C, Guido G, Bracci B, De Dominicis C, Laghi A. Chest CT Features of COVID-19 in Rome, Italy. Radiology 2020; 296:E79-E85. [PMID: 32243238 PMCID: PMC7194020 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2020201237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 368] [Impact Index Per Article: 92.0] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background The standard for diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test, but chest CT may play a complimentary role in the early detection of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. Purpose To investigate CT features of patients with COVID-19 in Rome, Italy, and to compare the accuracy of CT with that of RT-PCR. Materials and Methods In this prospective study from March 4, 2020, until March 19, 2020, consecutive patients suspected of having COVID-19 infection and respiratory symptoms were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were contrast material-enhanced chest CT performed for vascular indications, patients who refused chest CT or hospitalization, and severe CT motion artifact. All patients underwent RT-PCR and chest CT. Diagnostic performance of CT was calculated using RT-PCR as the reference standard. Chest CT features were calculated in a subgroup of patients with positive RT-PCR and CT findings. CT features of hospitalized patients and patients in home isolation were compared using the Pearson χ2 test. Results The study population included 158 consecutive participants (83 male, 75 female; mean age, 57 years ± 17 [standard deviation]). Of the 158 participants, fever was observed in 97 (61%), cough was observed in 88 (56%), dyspnea was observed in 52 (33%), lymphocytopenia was observed in 95 (60%), increased C-reactive protein level was observed in 139 (88%), and elevated lactate dehydrogenase level was observed in 128 (81%). Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CT were 97% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 88%, 99%) (60 of 62), 56% (95% CI: 45%, 66%) (54 of 96), and 72% (95% CI: 64%, 78%) (114 of 158), respectively. In the subgroup of 58 participants with positive RT-PCR and CT findings, ground-glass opacities were present in all 58 (100%), both multilobe and posterior involvement were present in 54 (93%), bilateral pneumonia was present in 53 (91%), and subsegmental vessel enlargement (>3 mm) was present in 52 (89%). Conclusion The typical pattern of COVID-19 pneumonia in Rome, Italy, was peripheral ground-glass opacities with multilobe and posterior involvement, bilateral distribution, and subsegmental vessel enlargement (>3 mm). Chest CT had high sensitivity (97%) but lower specificity (56%). © RSNA, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Caruso
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Zerunian
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Polici
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pucciarelli
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziano Polidori
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Rucci
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Gisella Guido
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Bracci
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Laghi
- From the Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome-Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa, 1035-1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
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Lulli V, Buccarelli M, Ilari R, Castellani G, De Dominicis C, Di Giamberardino A, D′Alessandris QG, Giannetti S, Martini M, Stumpo V, Boe A, De Luca G, Biffoni M, Marziali G, Pallini R, Ricci-Vitiani L. Mir-370-3p Impairs Glioblastoma Stem-Like Cell Malignancy Regulating a Complex Interplay between HMGA2/HIF1A and the Oncogenic Long Non-Coding RNA (lncRNA) NEAT1. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103610. [PMID: 32443824 PMCID: PMC7279259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and prevalent form of a human brain tumor in adults. Several data have demonstrated the implication of microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumorigenicity of GBM stem-like cells (GSCs). The regulatory functions of miRNAs in GSCs have emerged as potential therapeutic candidates for glioma treatment. The current study aimed at investigating the function of miR-370-3p in glioma progression, as aberrant expression of miR-370-3p, is involved in various human cancers, including glioma. Analyzing our collection of GBM samples and patient-derived GSC lines, we found the expression of miR-370-3p significantly downregulated compared to normal brain tissues and normal neural stem cells. Restoration of miR-370-3p expression in GSCs significantly decreased proliferation, migration, and clonogenic abilities of GSCs, in vitro, and tumor growth in vivo. Gene expression analysis performed on miR-370-3p transduced GSCs, identified several transcripts involved in Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), and Hypoxia signaling pathways. Among the genes downregulated by the restored expression of miR-370-3p, we found the EMT-inducer high-mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2), the master transcriptional regulator of the adaptive response to hypoxia, Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)1A, and the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) Nuclear Enriched Abundant Transcript (NEAT)1. NEAT1 acts as an oncogene in a series of human cancers including gliomas, where it is regulated by the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) pathways, and contributes to tumor growth and invasion. Noteworthy, the expression levels of miR-370-3p and NEAT1 were inversely related in both GBM tumor specimens and GSCs, and a dual-luciferase reporter assay proved the direct binding between miR-370-3p and the lncRNAs NEAT1. Our results identify a critical role of miR-370-3p in the regulation of GBM development, indicating that miR-370-3p acts as a tumor-suppressor factor inhibiting glioma cell growth, migration and invasion by targeting the lncRNAs NEAT1, HMGA2, and HIF1A, thus, providing a potential candidate for GBM patient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lulli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Mariachiara Buccarelli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Ramona Ilari
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Giorgia Castellani
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Chiara De Dominicis
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Alessandra Di Giamberardino
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Quintino Giorgio D′Alessandris
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Neurosurgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS; 00168 Rome, Italy; (Q.G.D.); (V.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Stefano Giannetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Anatomy, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Martini
- Department of Health Science and Public Health, Institute of Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Stumpo
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Neurosurgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS; 00168 Rome, Italy; (Q.G.D.); (V.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Alessandra Boe
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gabriele De Luca
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Mauro Biffoni
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
| | - Giovanna Marziali
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: (G.M.); (L.R.-V.)
| | - Roberto Pallini
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Neurosurgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS; 00168 Rome, Italy; (Q.G.D.); (V.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Lucia Ricci-Vitiani
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.L.); (M.B.); (R.I.); (G.C.); (C.D.D.); (A.D.G.); (G.D.L.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: (G.M.); (L.R.-V.)
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Ferri E, Ianni A, Magrini L, De Dominicis C, Di Somma S. An uncommon case of late-onset chylothorax in blunt thoracic trauma in the emergency department. Emerg Care J 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ecj.2016.5811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Blunt chest trauma is a rare cause of chylothorax because thoracic duct is well protected by the spine posteriorly and mediastinal contents anteriorly. Ribs or vertebral fractures are often associated but isolated chylothorax has been described. Thoracic duct injury may be due to stretching over the spine, or to shearing of the duct by the right crus of the diaphragm. Chylothorax can be associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality and early diagnosis is of paramount importance in order to adequate and prompt therapy. Chilothorax is well distinguishable in CT scan but the diagnosis must be confirmed by analysis of the pleural fluid. The optimal treatment for traumatic chylothorax is unclear and a challenging clinical problem. In this article, we describe the clinical manifestations, radiologic findings, and successful medical treatment of a patient with post traumatic chylothorax diagnosed in an emergency setting.
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Osman GA, Ricci A, Terzo F, Falasca C, Giovagnoli MR, Bruno P, Vecchione A, Raffa S, Valente S, Torrisi MR, De Dominicis C, Giovagnoli S, Mariotta S. Exogenous lipoid pneumonia induced by nasal decongestant. Clin Respir J 2016; 12:524-531. [PMID: 27717235 DOI: 10.1111/crj.12557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lipoid pneumonia is a clinical condition that may be initially asymptomatic or confused with an infectious or malignant lung disease. OBJECTIVES We report four cases of this pathological condition. METHODS The first case concerned an 85-year old woman with bilateral confluent pulmonary opacities, ground-glass type. Diagnosis was based on the cytology of the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid followed by its ultrastructural examination. The second case was a 47-year-old man with an isolated pulmonary nodule, which was surgically removed; the diagnosis of lipoid pneumonia was formulated on the basis of the histological and electron microscopy examination. The third case concerned a 73-year-old woman, with bilateral hypodense areas at the bases of the lungs where FDG PET/CT scan showed an increased uptake. Diagnosis was formulated by BAL cytology and electron microscopy examination. The fourth case was a 69-year-old man, who performed a virtual colonoscopy for diverticulosis putting in evidence a round mass (3 cm in diameter) with two small peripheral nodules, located in the pulmonary left lower lobe. The histopathological examination of transthoracic biopsy confirmed a lipoid pneumonia. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION In all four cases, it was put in evidence a prolonged use of a nasal decongestant containing mineral oils. In literature, the most cases described are characterized by a subclinical evolution and were presented as ground glass opacities which evolve, in the later phases, in an interstitial involvement or in a peripheral mass, simulating a lung tumour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia A Osman
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ricci
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Terzo
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Falasca
- UOD Cytopathology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria R Giovagnoli
- UOD Cytopathology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Pierdonato Bruno
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Vecchione
- Division of Pathology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Raffa
- UO of Cellular Diagnostics, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabatino Valente
- UO of Cellular Diagnostics, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria R Torrisi
- UO of Cellular Diagnostics, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Simonetta Giovagnoli
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mariotta
- Division of Pneumology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, AOU Sant'Andrea, Rome, Italy
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Matteoli M, Piacentino D, Kotzalidis GD, Serata D, Rapinesi C, Angeletti G, Rossi M, David V, De Dominicis C. The Clinical and Radiological Examination of Acute Intimate Partner Violence Injuries: A Retrospective Analysis of an Italian Cohort of Women. Violence Vict 2015; 31:85-102. [PMID: 26646262 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.vv-d-14-00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence (IPV) is the most frequent type of violence against women. We compared clinical and radiological IPV characteristics to stranger assault (SA). METHODS We retrospectively identified 123 women with IPV from court reports and matched them to 124 SA. Clinical and radiological characteristics were evaluated by testing their sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value for IPV, and the strength of their association with IPV. RESULTS IPV women referred with more delay to the emergency department (ED), had more ED accesses, and showed more mismatch between reports to the triage and disclosures to the ED physician. They also displayed more head, neck, and face injuries, and new-plus-old fractures. CONCLUSION The identification of specific features may help ED physicians to suspect IPV.
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Abstract
Appendicectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures. Appendiceal mucocele is a relative rare disease, but appropriate management is critical. Indeed, the intact removal of a mucocele represents a curative treatment; conversely, a rupture may result in the spread of epithelial cells throughout the peritoneal cavity (pseudomyxoma peritonei). We report a case of a 61-year-old woman, admitted to our department, who underwent resection of an appendiceal mucocele, focusing, in the discussion, on the clinical and surgical management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lorenzon
- Surgery Unit, Surgical and Medical Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital of Rome, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Edoardo Virgilio
- Surgery Unit, Surgical and Medical Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital of Rome, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Genoveffa Balducci
- Surgery Unit, Surgical and Medical Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital of Rome, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Sentimentale A, Matteoli M, Giovannelli M, De Dominicis C, Corsino M, Ferri E, Di Somma S. Fahr's disease detected on a head CT scan in patient with "epileptic syncope" in the Emergency Department. Intern Emerg Med 2010; 5:263-5. [PMID: 20119680 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-009-0341-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2009] [Accepted: 12/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Pilozzi E, Del Prete F, De Dominicis C, Rendina EA, Ruco LP. True thymic hyperplasia associated with thymic hemorrhage in an adult patient. Pathol Res Pract 2010; 206:331-3. [PMID: 19640657 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2009.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2009] [Revised: 06/08/2009] [Accepted: 06/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A case of true thymic hyperplasia (TTH) associated with thymic hemorrhage (TH) was observed in a 22-year-old male patient who presented with persistent cough and thoracic pain due to an anterior mediastinal mass. The diagnosis of TTH was supported by the observation that the mediastinal mass was essentially composed of histologically normal thymic lobules with preserved cortico-medullary differentiation. The TTH tissue presented multiple areas of hemorrhage associated with the presence of large, tortuous, abnormal vessels in the thymic stroma. Foci of spindle cell proliferations resembling an epitheliod hemangioma were also seen. This finding raises the possibility that vascular malformations, perhaps due to an abnormal growth of the thymus, may be responsible for some cases of TH associated with TTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Pilozzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Pathology, II Faculty of Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The immunopathogenesis of ocular allergic disorders is generally related to the specific immunoglobulin E-mediated mast cell activation and the following cascade of inflammatory mediators. Seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis, however, are the only ocular diseases to involve solely type I hypersensitivity. The other main forms, vernal and atopic keratoconjunctivitis, have a more complex immunological basis and a chronic inflammatory component. Involvement of inflammatory cells, particularly eosinophils and T cells, cytokines and proteases can lead to more serious corneal damage with vision-threatening potential. RECENT FINDINGS Experimental allergic conjunctival models and clinical research studies have shown that T helper type 2-related mechanisms are definitely involved in the sensitization phase of ocular allergy, however, both T helper type 1 and type 2 cytokines are overexpressed in the active disease, contributing to the development of ocular inflammation. SUMMARY A review of the recent literature allows us to better understand the mechanisms involved in the development of ocular allergy and to guide us toward a more schematic approach, which could possibly be useful in forming a new classification, standardizing clinical phases and individuating new treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Leonardi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Padua, Italy.
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