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Giuriato G, Romanelli MG, Bartolini D, Vernillo G, Pedrinolla A, Moro T, Franchi M, Locatelli E, Andani ME, Laginestra FG, Barbi C, Aloisi GF, Cavedon V, Milanese C, Orlandi E, De Simone T, Fochi S, Patuzzo C, Malerba G, Fabene P, Donadelli M, Stabile AM, Pistilli A, Rende M, Galli F, Schena F, Venturelli M. Sex differences in neuromuscular and biological determinants of isometric maximal force. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14118. [PMID: 38385696 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
AIM Force expression is characterized by an interplay of biological and molecular determinants that are expected to differentiate males and females in terms of maximal performance. These include muscle characteristics (muscle size, fiber type, contractility), neuromuscular regulation (central and peripheral factors of force expression), and individual genetic factors (miRNAs and gene/protein expression). This research aims to comprehensively assess these physiological variables and their role as determinants of maximal force difference between sexes. METHODS Experimental evaluations include neuromuscular components of isometric contraction, intrinsic muscle characteristics (proteins and fiber type), and some biomarkers associated with muscle function (circulating miRNAs and gut microbiome) in 12 young and healthy males and 12 females. RESULTS Male strength superiority appears to stem primarily from muscle size while muscle fiber-type distribution plays a crucial role in contractile properties. Moderate-to-strong pooled correlations between these muscle parameters were established with specific circulating miRNAs, as well as muscle and plasma proteins. CONCLUSION Muscle size is crucial in explaining the differences in maximal voluntary isometric force generation between males and females with similar fiber type distribution. Potential physiological mechanisms are seen from associations between maximal force, skeletal muscle contractile properties, and biological markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Giuriato
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences Related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Romanelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Desirée Bartolini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Gianluca Vernillo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Alberta - Augustana Campus, Camrose, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anna Pedrinolla
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Tatiana Moro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Martino Franchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Locatelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mehran Emadi Andani
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fabio Giuseppe Laginestra
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah, Utah, USA
| | - Chiara Barbi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gloria Fiorini Aloisi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Valentina Cavedon
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Milanese
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Orlandi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Tonia De Simone
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefania Fochi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paolo Fabene
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Donadelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Stabile
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human Anatomy, Clinical and Forensic, School of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pistilli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human Anatomy, Clinical and Forensic, School of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Mario Rende
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human Anatomy, Clinical and Forensic, School of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Galli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Venturelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Utah, USA
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Carelli M, Griggio F, Mingoia M, Garofalo C, Milanović V, Pozzato N, Leoni F, Veschetti L, Malerba G, Sandri A, Patuzzo C, Simoni S, Lleo MM, Vignaroli C. Detecting Carbapenemases in Animal and Food Samples by Droplet Digital PCR. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11121696. [PMID: 36551353 PMCID: PMC9774140 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11121696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of carbapenemase-producing bacteria (CPB) in animal hosts and along the food chain may result in the development of reservoirs for human infections. Several CPB strains isolated from animals have been reported, suggesting that transmission and dissemination of the corresponding genes between humans and animals may occur. Animal and food samples have complex backgrounds that hinder the detection of CPB present in low concentrations by standard detection procedures. METHODS We evaluated the possibility of detecting blaKPC, blaVIM, and blaOXA-48-like carbapenemases in 286 animal and food samples (faeces from farm and companion animals, raw meat, bivalve molluscs) by culture-based and standard molecular methods and by ddPCR. RESULTS The proposed ddPCR managed to detect the target genes, also in samples resulting negative to standard methods. While the presence of blaKPC and blaVIM was detected in few samples (~3%), one third of the samples (n = 94/283) carried different variants of blaOXA-48-like genes. CONCLUSION A specific and sensitive method such as ddPCR could be suitable to evaluate the current veterinarian and environmental situation and to assess the dynamic transmission and persistence of CPB between animals and humans and vice versa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carelli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Griggio
- Centro Piattaforme Tecnologiche, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marina Mingoia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Cristiana Garofalo
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Vesna Milanović
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Nicola Pozzato
- Laboratorio di Diagnostica Clinica e Sierologia di Piano, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 37060 Buttapietra, Italy
| | - Francesca Leoni
- Laboratorio Nazionale di Riferimento (LNR) per il Controllo delle Contaminazioni Batteriche dei Molluschi Bivalvi, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati”, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Laura Veschetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Angela Sandri
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Serena Simoni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
| | - Maria M. Lleo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Vignaroli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60121 Ancona, Italy
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Pomari E, Malerba G, Veschetti L, Franceschi A, Moron Dalla Tor L, Deiana M, Degani M, Mistretta M, Patuzzo C, Ragusa A, Mori A, Bisoffi Z, Buonfrate D. Identification of miRNAs of Strongyloides stercoralis L1 and iL3 larvae isolated from human stool. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9957. [PMID: 35705621 PMCID: PMC9200769 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14185-y] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the soil-transmitted nematode by Strongyloides stercoralis, that affects approximately 600 million people worldwide. In immunosuppressed individuals disseminated strongyloidiasis can rapidly lead to fatal outcomes. There is no gold standard for diagnosing strongyloidiasis, and infections are frequently misdiagnosed. A better understanding of the molecular biology of this parasite can be useful for example for the discovery of potential new biomarkers. Interestingly, recent evidence showed the presence of small RNAs in Strongyloididae, but no data was provided for S. stercoralis. In this study, we present the first identification of miRNAs of both L1 and iL3 larval stages of S. stercoralis. For our purpose, the aims were: (i) to analyse the miRNome of L1 and iL3 S. stercoralis and to identify potential miRNAs of this nematode, (ii) to obtain the mRNAs profiles in these two larval stages and (iii) to predict potential miRNA target sites in mRNA sequences. Total RNA was isolated from L1 and iL3 collected from the stool of 5 infected individuals. For the miRNAs analysis, we used miRDeep2 software and a pipeline of bio-informatic tools to construct a catalog of a total of 385 sequences. Among these, 53% were common to S. ratti, 19% to S. papillosus, 1% to Caenorhabditis elegans and 44% were novel. Using a differential analysis between the larval stages, we observed 6 suggestive modulated miRNAs (STR-MIR-34A-3P, STR-MIR-8397-3P, STR-MIR-34B-3P and STR-MIR-34C-3P expressed more in iL3, and STR-MIR-7880H-5P and STR-MIR-7880M-5P expressed more in L1). Along with this analysis, we obtained also the mRNAs profiles in the same samples of larvae. Multiple testing found 81 statistically significant mRNAs of the total 1553 obtained (FDR < 0.05; 32 genes expressed more in L1 than iL3; 49 genes expressed more in L3 than iL1). Finally, we found 33 predicted mRNA targets of the modulated miRNAs, providing relevant data for a further validation to better understand the role of these small molecules in the larval stages and their valuein clinical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pomari
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Veschetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandra Franceschi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Michela Deiana
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Monica Degani
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuela Mistretta
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Ragusa
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Mori
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy.,Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Verona, Italy
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Veschetti L, Sandri A, Patuzzo C, Melotti P, Malerba G, Lleo MM. Genomic characterization of Achromobacter species isolates from chronic and occasional lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients. Microb Genom 2021; 7. [PMID: 34292148 PMCID: PMC8477391 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.000606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Achromobacter species are increasingly being detected in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, where they can establish chronic infections by adapting to the lower airway environment. To better understand the mechanisms contributing to a successful colonization by Achromobacter species, we sequenced the whole genome of 54 isolates from 26 patients with occasional and early/late chronic lung infection. We performed a phylogenetic analysis and compared virulence and resistance genes, genetic variants and mutations, and hypermutability mechanisms between chronic and occasional isolates. We identified five Achromobacter species as well as two non-affiliated genogroups (NGs). Among them were the frequently isolated Achromobacter xylosoxidans and four other species whose clinical importance is not yet clear: Achromobacter insuavis, Achromobacter dolens, Achromobacter insolitus and Achromobacter aegrifaciens. While A. insuavis and A. dolens were isolated only from chronically infected patients and A. aegrifaciens only from occasionally infected patients, the other species were found in both groups. Most of the occasional isolates lacked functional genes involved in invasiveness, chemotaxis, type 3 secretion system and anaerobic growth, whereas the great majority (>60%) of chronic isolates had these genomic features. Interestingly, almost all (n=22/23) late chronic isolates lacked functional genes involved in lipopolysaccharide production. Regarding antibiotic resistance, we observed a species-specific distribution of blaOXA genes, confirming what has been reported in the literature and additionally identifying blaOXA-2 in some A. insolitus isolates and observing no blaOXA genes in A. aegrifaciens or NGs. No significant difference in resistance genes was found between chronic and occasional isolates. The results of the mutator genes analysis showed that no occasional isolate had hypermutator characteristics, while 60% of early chronic (<1 year from first colonization) and 78% of late chronic (>1 year from first colonization) isolates were classified as hypermutators. Although all A. dolens, A. insuavis and NG isolates presented two different mutS genes, these seem to have a complementary rather than compensatory function. In conclusion, our results show that Achromobacter species can exhibit different adaptive mechanisms and some of these mechanisms might be more useful than others in establishing a chronic infection in CF patients, highlighting their importance for the clinical setting and the need for further studies on the less clinically characterized Achromobacter species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Veschetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Angela Sandri
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Microbiology Section, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Melotti
- Cystic Fibrosis Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Maria M Lleo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Microbiology Section, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
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Picelli A, Filippetti M, Del Piccolo L, Schena F, Chelazzi L, Della Libera C, Donadelli M, Donisi V, Fabene PF, Fochi S, Fonte C, Gandolfi M, Gomez-Lira M, Locatelli E, Malerba G, Mariotto S, Milanese C, Patuzzo C, Romanelli MG, Sbarbati A, Tamburin S, Venturelli M, Zamparo P, Carcereri de Prati A, Butturini E, Varalta V, Smania N. Rehabilitation and Biomarkers of Stroke Recovery: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Neurol 2021; 11:618200. [PMID: 33519698 PMCID: PMC7843518 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.618200] [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: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Stroke is a leading cause of disability. Nonetheless, the care pathway for stroke rehabilitation takes partially into account the needs of chronic patients. This is due in part to the lack of evidence about the mechanisms of recovery after stroke, together with the poor knowledge of related and influencing factors. Here we report on the study protocol "Rehabilitation and Biomarkers of Stroke Recovery," which consists of 7 work-packages and mainly aim to investigate the effects of long-term neurorehabilitation on stroke patients and to define a related profile of (clinical-biological, imaging, neurophysiological, and genetic-molecular) biomarkers of long-term recovery after stroke. The work-package 1 will represent the main part of this protocol and aims to compare the long-term effects of intensive self-rehabilitation vs. usual (rehabilitation) care for stroke. Methods: We planned to include a total of 134 adult subacute stroke patients (no more than 3 months since onset) suffering from multidomain disability as a consequence of first-ever unilateral ischemic stroke. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of the following groups: intensive self-rehabilitation (based on the principles of "Guided Self-Rehabilitation Contract") vs. usual care (routine practice). Treatment will last 1 year, and patients will be evaluated every 3 months according to their clinical presentation. The following outcomes will be considered in the main work-package: Fugl-Meyer assessment, Cognitive Oxford Screen Barthel Index, structural and functional neuroimaging, cortical excitability, and motor and somatosensory evoked potentials. Discussion: This trial will deal with the effects of an intensive self-management rehabilitation protocol and a related set of biomarkers. It will also investigate the role of training intensity on long-term recovery after stroke. In addition, it will define a set of biomarkers related to post-stroke recovery and neurorehabilitation outcome in order to detect patients with greater potential and define long-term individualized rehabilitation programs. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04323501.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Picelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mirko Filippetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lidia Del Piccolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Schena
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Leonardo Chelazzi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Della Libera
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Donadelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Valeria Donisi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paolo Francesco Fabene
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefania Fochi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Fonte
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Gandolfi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Macarena Gomez-Lira
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Locatelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sofia Mariotto
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Milanese
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Romanelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Venturelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Zamparo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Elena Butturini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Valentina Varalta
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nicola Smania
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Veschetti L, Sandri A, Patuzzo C, Melotti P, Malerba G, Lleò MM. Mobilome Analysis of Achromobacter spp. Isolates from Chronic and Occasional Lung Infection in Cystic Fibrosis Patients. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9010130. [PMID: 33430044 PMCID: PMC7826576 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Achromobacter spp. is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Although a variety of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) carrying antimicrobial resistance genes have been identified in clinical isolates, little is known about the contribution of Achromobacter spp. mobilome to its pathogenicity. To provide new insights, we performed bioinformatic analyses of 54 whole genome sequences and investigated the presence of phages, insertion sequences (ISs), and integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs). Most of the detected phages were previously described in other pathogens and carried type II toxin-antitoxin systems as well as other pathogenic genes. Interestingly, the partial sequence of phage Bcep176 was found in all the analyzed Achromobacter xylosoxidans genome sequences, suggesting the integration of this phage in an ancestor strain. A wide variety of IS was also identified either inside of or in proximity to pathogenicity islands. Finally, ICEs carrying pathogenic genes were found to be widespread among our isolates and seemed to be involved in transfer events within the CF lung. These results highlight the contribution of MGEs to the pathogenicity of Achromobacter species, their potential to become antimicrobial targets, and the need for further studies to better elucidate their clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Veschetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.V.); (C.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Angela Sandri
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Microbiology Section, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.V.); (C.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Paola Melotti
- Cystic Fibrosis Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.V.); (C.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Maria M. Lleò
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Microbiology Section, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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Zago V, Veschetti L, Patuzzo C, Malerba G, Lleo MM. Shewanella algae and Vibrio spp. strains isolated in Italian aquaculture farms are reservoirs of antibiotic resistant genes that might constitute a risk for human health. Mar Pollut Bull 2020; 154:111057. [PMID: 32174504 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The aquatic environment can represent a reservoir of antimicrobial resistance genes. In the present study, phenotypical, biochemical and molecular techniques were used to screen a collection of marine strains isolated in Italian aquaculture farms to investigate their beta-lactam resistance profiles. The genome of 12 carbapenemase and/or beta-lactamase producing strains was sequenced and a phylogenetic analysis of the beta-lactamases found in their chromosomes was performed. Gene annotation and prediction revealed the presence of blaAmpC and blaOXA-55-like in all the Shewanella algae isolates whereas in Vibrio anguillarum and Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains, blaAmpC and blaCARB-19 were found, respectively. Multiple alignments of OXA-55-like and AmpC protein sequences showed different point mutations. Finally, comparisons between enzyme phylogeny and strain clusterization based on sampling sites and dates indicate the diffusion of specific Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) Shewanella algae clones along the Italian Adriatic coast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Zago
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Veschetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Maria M Lleo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Italy.
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Zago V, Veschetti L, Patuzzo C, Malerba G, Lleo MM. Resistome, Mobilome and Virulome Analysis of Shewanella algae and Vibrio spp. Strains Isolated in Italian Aquaculture Centers. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8040572. [PMID: 32326629 PMCID: PMC7232470 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8040572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a major public health concern restricted not only to healthcare settings but also to veterinary and environmental ones. In this study, we analyzed, by whole genome sequencing (WGS) the resistome, mobilome and virulome of 12 multidrug-resistant (MDR) marine strains belonging to Shewanellaceae and Vibrionaceae families collected at aquaculture centers in Italy. The results evidenced the presence of several resistance mechanisms including enzyme and efflux pump systems conferring resistance to beta-lactams, quinolones, tetracyclines, macrolides, polymyxins, chloramphenicol, fosfomycin, erythromycin, detergents and heavy metals. Mobilome analysis did not find circular elements but class I integrons, integrative and conjugative element (ICE) associated modules, prophages and different insertion sequence (IS) family transposases. These mobile genetic elements (MGEs) are usually present in other aquatic bacteria but also in Enterobacteriaceae suggesting their transferability among autochthonous and allochthonous bacteria of the resilient microbiota. Regarding the presence of virulence factors, hemolytic activity was detected both in the Shewanella algae and in Vibrio spp. strains. To conclude, these data indicate the role as a reservoir of resistance and virulence genes in the environment of the aquatic microbiota present in the examined Italian fish farms that potentially might be transferred to bacteria of medical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Zago
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Laura Veschetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.V.); (C.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.V.); (C.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.V.); (C.P.); (G.M.)
| | - Maria M. Lleo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-045-802-7194
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Deiana M, Malerba G, Dalle Carbonare L, Cheri S, Patuzzo C, Tsenov G, Moron Dalla Tor L, Mori A, Saviola G, Zipeto D, Schena F, Mottes M, Valenti MT. Physical Activity Prevents Cartilage Degradation: A Metabolomics Study Pinpoints the Involvement of Vitamin B6. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111374. [PMID: 31683926 PMCID: PMC6912200 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is predominantly characterized by the progressive degradation of articular cartilage, the connective tissue produced by chondrocytes, due to an imbalance between anabolic and catabolic processes. In addition, physical activity (PA) is recognized as an important tool for counteracting OA. To evaluate PA effects on the chondrocyte lineage, we analyzed the expression of SOX9, COL2A1, and COMP in circulating progenitor cells following a half marathon (HM) performance. Therefore, we studied in-depth the involvement of metabolites affecting chondrocyte lineage, and we compared the metabolomic profile associated with PA by analyzing runners’ sera before and after HM performance. Interestingly, this study highlighted that metabolites involved in vitamin B6 salvage, such as pyridoxal 5′-phosphate and pyridoxamine 5′-phosphate, were highly modulated. To evaluate the effects of vitamin B6 in cartilage cells, we treated differentiated mesenchymal stem cells and the SW1353 chondrosarcoma cell line with vitamin B6 in the presence of IL1β, the inflammatory cytokine involved in OA. Our study describes, for the first time, the modulation of the vitamin B6 salvage pathway following PA and suggests a protective role of PA in OA through modulation of this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Deiana
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Section D, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Malerba
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Luca Dalle Carbonare
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Section D, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Samuele Cheri
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Section D, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Grygoriy Tsenov
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Lucas Moron Dalla Tor
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Antonio Mori
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Gianantonio Saviola
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Uniti of the Institute of Castel Goffredo, I-46042 Mantua, Italy.
| | - Donato Zipeto
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Federico Schena
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Monica Mottes
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Maria Teresa Valenti
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Section D, University of Verona, I-37134 Verona, Italy.
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Chiarini A, Onorati F, Marconi M, Pasquali A, Patuzzo C, Malashicheva A, Irtyega O, Faggian G, Pignatti PF, Trabetti E, Armato U, Dal Pra I. Studies on sporadic non-syndromic thoracic aortic aneurysms: II. Alterations of extra-cellular matrix components and focal adhesion proteins. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2019; 25:51-58. [PMID: 29708036 DOI: 10.1177/2047487318759120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Background Sporadic non-syndromic thoracic aortic aneurysms (SNSTAAs) are less well understood than familial non-syndromic or syndromic ones. Here, we focused on morphologic and molecular changes of the extracellular matrix of the tunica media of SNSTAAs. Design Single centre design. Methods Surgical media samples from seven SNSTAAs and seven controls underwent quantitative polymerase chain reaction, proteomics-bioinformatics, immunoblotting, histology and immunohistochemistry analysis. Results A down-regulation of Decorin mRNA with unchanged protein levels associated with a remarkable increase of collagen fibres. A reduced and distorted network of elastic fibres partnered with an attenuated expression of microfibril-associated glycoprotein1 despite the rise of MFAP2 gene-encoded mRNA levels. An increasingly proteolysed paxillin (55 kDa PXN), a focal adhesion protein, combined with an upregulated 62 kDa PXN holoprotein, without changes in amount and phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (pp125FAK). The upregulation of SPOCK2-encoded Testican2 proteoglycan and of ectodysplasin (EDA) protein was coupled with a down-regulation of EDA2 receptor (EDA2R). Conclusions Several tunica media extracellular matrix-related changes favour SNSTAA development. A steady level of decorin and a microfibril-associated glycoprotein1 protein shortage cause the assembly of structurally defective collagen and elastic fibres. Up-regulation of PXN holoproteins perturbs PXN/pp125FAK interaction and focal adhesion functioning. Testican2 up-regulation suppresses the membrane-type matrix metalloproteinase inhibiting activities of other SPOCK family members thus enhancing extracellular matrix proteolysis. Finally, the altered EDA•EDA2R signalling would impact on the remodelling of SNSTAA tunica media. Altogether, our results pave the way to a deeper molecular understanding of SNSTAAs necessary to identify their early diagnostic biochemical markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chiarini
- 1 Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Francesco Onorati
- 2 Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Maddalena Marconi
- 1 Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Patuzzo
- 3 Biology and Genetics Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | | | - Olga Irtyega
- 4 Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Giuseppe Faggian
- 2 Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Pier F Pignatti
- 3 Biology and Genetics Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | | | - Ubaldo Armato
- 1 Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Ilaria Dal Pra
- 1 Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
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11
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Chiarini A, Onorati F, Marconi M, Pasquali A, Patuzzo C, Malashicheva A, Irtyega O, Faggian G, Pignatti PF, Trabetti E, Armato U, Dal Pra I. Studies on sporadic non-syndromic thoracic aortic aneurysms: 1. Deregulation of Jagged/Notch 1 homeostasis and selection of synthetic/secretor phenotype smooth muscle cells. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2018; 25:42-50. [DOI: 10.1177/2047487318759119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Background Sporadic non-syndromic thoracic aortic aneurysms (SNSTAAs) are less well understood than familial non-syndromic or syndromic ones. The study aimed at defining the peculiar morphologic and molecular changes occurring in the media layer of SNSTAAs. Design This study was based on a single centre design. Methods Media layer samples taken from seven carefully selected SNSTAAs and seven reference patients (controls) were investigated via quantitative polymerase chain reaction, proteomics-bioinformatics, immunoblotting, quantitative histology, and immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence. Results In SNSTAAs media, aortic smooth muscle cells numbers were halved due to an apoptotic process coupled with a negligible cell proliferation. Cystathionine γ-lyase was diffusely up-regulated. Surviving aortic smooth muscle cells exhibited diverging phenotypes: in inner- and outer-media contractile cells prevailed, having higher contents of smooth-muscle-α-actin holoprotein (45-kDa) and of caspase-3-cleaved smooth-muscle-α-actin 25-kDa fragments; in mid-media, aortic smooth muscle cells exhibited a synthetic/secretor phenotype, down-regulating vimentin, but up-regulating glial fibrillary acidic protein, trans-Golgi network 46 protein, Jagged1 (172-kDa) holoprotein, and Jagged1’s receptor Notch1. Extracellular soluble Jagged1 (42-kDa) fragments accumulated. Conclusions In SNSTAAs, there is a relentless aortic smooth muscle cells attrition caused by the up-regulated cystathionine γ-lyase. In mid-media, synthetic/secretor aortic smooth muscle cells intensify Jagged1/NOTCH1 signalling in the attempt to counterbalance the weakened aortic wall, due to aortic smooth muscle cells net loss and mechanical stress. Synthetic/secretor aortic smooth muscle cells are apoptosis-prone, and the accruing thrombin-cleaved Jagged1 fragments counteract the otherwise useful effects of Jagged1/NOTCH1 signalling, thus hampering tissue homeostasis/remodelling, and aortic smooth muscle cells adhesion, differentiation, and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chiarini
- Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Francesco Onorati
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Maddalena Marconi
- Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Patuzzo
- Biology and Genetics Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | | | - Olga Irtyega
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Giuseppe Faggian
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Pier F Pignatti
- Biology and Genetics Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | | | - Ubaldo Armato
- Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
| | - Ilaria Dal Pra
- Histology and Embryology Section, University of Verona Medical School, Italy
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12
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Ferronato S, Lira MG, Olivato S, Scuro A, Veraldi GF, Romanelli MG, Patuzzo C, Malerba G, Pignatti PF, Mazzucco S. Upregulated expression of Toll-like receptor 4 in peripheral blood of ischaemic stroke patients correlates with cyclooxygenase 2 expression. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 41:358-63. [PMID: 21236709 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2010.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Accepted: 11/17/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An inflammatory process following stroke in human brains and systemic inflammatory responses after stroke in humans have been reported by numerous investigators. The aim of the study was to investigate if genes involved in the cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) pathway are upregulated at peripheral level in patients after transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and stroke. DESIGN OF STUDY Blood samples were obtained from two groups of patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. The first group included 25 patients who presented TIA or ischaemic stroke. The second group included 35 patients who had an asymptomatic internal carotid artery stenosis. Total RNA was isolated and the expression of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4), COX-2, membrane-associated Prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES-1), Prostaglandin E₂ receptors (EP3 and EP4) was analysed by real time RT-PCR. RESULTS Expression of COX-2 and TLR4 were significantly increased in symptomatic patients (p < 0.001). Correlation analysis showed that TLR4 expression significantly correlated with COX-2 expression (R = 0.65; p < 0.01) in ischaemic stroke patients. This correlation was not observed in TIA and asymptomatic patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the peripheral mechanism of inflammatory injury after stroke may be mediated by TLR4 through a COX-2-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ferronato
- Department of Life and Reproduction Sciences, Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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13
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Cagnin S, Biscuola M, Patuzzo C, Trabetti E, Pasquali A, Laveder P, Faggian G, Iafrancesco M, Mazzucco A, Pignatti PF, Lanfranchi G. Reconstruction and functional analysis of altered molecular pathways in human atherosclerotic arteries. BMC Genomics 2009; 10:13. [PMID: 19134193 PMCID: PMC2654039 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-10-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 09/16/2008] [Accepted: 01/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Atherosclerosis affects aorta, coronary, carotid, and iliac arteries most frequently than any other body vessel. There may be common molecular pathways sustaining this process. Plaque presence and diffusion is revealed by circulating factors that can mediate systemic reaction leading to plaque rupture and thrombosis. Results We used DNA microarrays and meta-analysis to study how the presence of calcified plaque modifies human coronary and carotid gene expression. We identified a series of potential human atherogenic genes that are integrated in functional networks involved in atherosclerosis. Caveolae and JAK/STAT pathways, and S100A9/S100A8 interacting proteins are certainly involved in the development of vascular disease. We found that the system of caveolae is directly connected with genes that respond to hormone receptors, and indirectly with the apoptosis pathway. Cytokines, chemokines and growth factors released in the blood flux were investigated in parallel. High levels of RANTES, IL-1ra, MIP-1alpha, MIP-1beta, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-17, PDGF-BB, VEGF and IFN-gamma were found in plasma of atherosclerotic patients and might also be integrated in the molecular networks underlying atherosclerotic modifications of these vessels. Conclusion The pattern of cytokine and S100A9/S100A8 up-regulation characterizes atherosclerosis as a proinflammatory disorder. Activation of the JAK/STAT pathway is confirmed by the up-regulation of IL-6, STAT1, ISGF3G and IL10RA genes in coronary and carotid plaques. The functional network constructed in our research is an evidence of the central role of STAT protein and the caveolae system to contribute to preserve the plaque. Moreover, Cav-1 is involved in SMC differentiation and dyslipidemia confirming the importance of lipid homeostasis in the atherosclerotic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cagnin
- CRIBI Biotechnology Centre, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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14
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Migliaccio C, Patuzzo C, Malerba G, Trabetti E, Galavotti R, Pescollderung L, Boner AL, Pignatti PF. No linkage or association of five polymorphisms in the interleukin-4 receptor α gene with atopic asthma in Italian families. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003; 30:349-53. [PMID: 14641543 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2370.2003.00415.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The literature contains conflicting reports on the association of common variants of the interleukin (IL)-4 receptor alpha (IL4RA) gene with atopic asthma. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the linkage and association of several gene polymorphisms with atopic asthma in a large series of well-characterized individuals. Analysis of five polymorphisms (I50V, E375A, C406R, S478P and Q551R) of the IL4RA gene was performed in 823 individuals from 182 families with atopic asthmatic children from north-east Italy. The subjects were tested for clinical asthma, total serum IgE level, skin prick test positivity to common aeroallergens, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine. The frequency of the polymorphisms was similar to that reported for other populations. The 375, 406, 478 and 551 polymorphisms were in linkage disequilibrium, as previously reported. No linkage or transmission disequilibrium was observed in the families between any mutation and any of the phenotypes investigated. No multipoint haplotype was associated with any phenotype. In conclusion, the IL4RA gene does not seem to play an important role in genetic predisposition to atopic asthma in the population tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Migliaccio
- Department of Mother and Child, University of Verone, Verone, Italy
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15
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Patuzzo C, Castellani C, Sagramoso C, Gomez-Lira M, Bonamini D, Belpinati F, Dechecchi MC, Assael BM, Pignatti PF. Cationic trypsinogen and pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor gene mutations in neonatal hypertrypsinaemia. Eur J Hum Genet 2003; 11:93-6. [PMID: 12529713 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ejhg.5200927] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2002] [Revised: 10/17/2002] [Accepted: 10/21/2002] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal hypertrypsinaemia with normal sweat chloride detected during CF screening may be related to trypsin activation. We have looked for mutations of the cationic trypsinogen (PRSS1) and pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (PSTI) genes in 50 hypertrypsinaemic neonates with known CFTR genotypes and negative sweat test. No mutations were found in either gene. Two silent polymorphisms were detected in the PRSS1 gene. A polymorphism in the promoter region and an intronic polymorphism of the PSTI gene were found. No difference was observed in the frequency of PRSS1 or PSTI polymorphisms in neonates carrying or not carrying CF mutations. These results do not provide an indication for an increased frequency of mutations in the PRSS1 and PSTI genes in this group of neonates with transient hypertrypsinaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Patuzzo
- Department of Mother and Child, Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Italy.
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16
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Gomez Lira M, Patuzzo C, Castellani C, Bovo P, Cavallini G, Mastella G, Pignatti PF. CFTR and cationic trypsinogen mutations in idiopathic pancreatitis and neonatal hypertrypsinemia. Pancreatology 2002; 1:538-42. [PMID: 12120234 DOI: 10.1159/000055857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The CFTR gene has been shown to be involved in sporadic idiopathic pancreatitis (IP) and neonatal hypertrypsinemia with normal sweat chloride test (NHNST). The cationic trypsinogen gene (Try4) is responsible for hereditary pancreatitis. The aim of the present study was to find a correlation between mutations in the two genes and the two phenotypes. METHODS Analysis of some known gene mutations and complete gene screening by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing were undertaken. Thirty-two sporadic IP patients were investigated for the CFTR study, while 13 sporadic IP patients plus 4 hereditary pancreatitis families (24 tested individuals) were examined for the Try4 study. Fifty neonates with NHNST were investigated for the study of both genes. RESULTS CFTR mutations were more frequently observed in sporadic IP cases with a common cystic fibrosis mutation or borderline sweat chloride than in cases with a negative sweat test. Try4 mutations were found in 1 out of the 13 sporadic IP cases tested. CONCLUSIONS The CFTR gene may be involved in IP and NHNST, while the Try4 gene may be involved in IP, but not in NHNST, in this limited series of observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gomez Lira
- Department of Mother and Child, Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy
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17
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Malerba G, Patuzzo C, Trabetti E, Lauciello MC, Galavotti R, Pescollderungg L, Whalen MB, Zanoni G, Martinati LC, Boner AL, Pignatti PF. Chromosome 14 linkage analysis and mutation study of 2 serpin genes in allergic asthmatic families. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2001; 107:654-8. [PMID: 11295654 DOI: 10.1067/mai.2001.113865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome and chromosome screens reported DNA markers on chromosome 14 linked to allergic asthma or intermediate phenotypes in several populations. OBJECTIVE We sought to perform a linkage study on chromosome 14 and a further association study on candidate genes mapped in the region found to be linked to allergic asthma or intermediate phenotypes. METHODS The study consisted of a sample of 189 families (847 genotyped individuals) from a restricted geographic area in northeastern Italy. The subjects were characterized for the following phenotypes: allergic asthma, total serum IgE levels, skin prick test responses, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) to methacholine. Genotyping was done with 14 DNA markers and 4 polymorphisms in the genes encoding alpha(1)-anti-trypsin and alpha(1)-antichymotrypsin (ACT). RESULTS Multipoint analysis indicated a potential linkage of BHR with marker D14S617 (nonparametric linkage z score = 2.32, P =.01). Transmission disequilibrium of Thr -15Ala in the gene encoding ACT was observed with all the phenotypes investigated: allergic asthma, BHR, total IgE levels, or skin prick test responses (P =.041,.02,.0053, or.026, respectively). CONCLUSION Chromosome 14 screening and transmission disequilibrium testing on the gene encoding ACT suggest that it or a closely located gene may be involved in susceptibility to allergic asthma in the Italian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Malerba
- Department of Mother and Child, Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Strada la Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
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18
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Patuzzo C, Gilè LS, Zorzetto M, Trabetti E, Malerba G, Pignatti PF, Luisetti M. Tumor necrosis factor gene complex in COPD and disseminated bronchiectasis. Chest 2000; 117:1353-8. [PMID: 10807822 DOI: 10.1378/chest.117.5.1353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a potent proinflammatory cytokine with increased levels in the sputum of COPD subjects. Two biallelic TNF gene complex polymorphisms have been described: LtalphaNcoI, in the first intron of the lymphotoxin alpha (previously referred to as TNF-beta) gene, and TNF-308, in the promoter region of the TNF-alpha gene. Higher levels of TNF production are associated with allele 1 of LtalphaNcoI (LtalphaNcoI*1) and with allele 2 of TNF-308 (TNF-308*2). STUDY OBJECTIVES To study the frequencies of the two TNF gene complex polymorphisms in patients with COPD and bronchiectasis. DESIGN Association study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We studied the frequencies of these polymorphisms in 66 subjects with COPD and in 23 subjects with disseminated bronchiectasis and compared them to the frequencies in 98 healthy control subjects and 45 subjects with nonobstructive pulmonary disease. Genomic DNA samples were extracted, and TNF-alpha and LtalphaNcoI polymorphisms were detected after polymerase chain reaction by restriction digestion. RESULTS We found the following frequencies: the TNF-308*2 allele was detected in 11% of COPD individuals, 15% of bronchiectasis patients, 10% of healthy control subjects, and 18% of subjects with nonobstructive pulmonary disease. The LtalphaNcoI*1 allele was detected in 28% of COPD individuals, 30% of bronchiectasis patients, 29% of healthy control subjects, and 29% of subjects with nonobstructive pulmonary disease. We found evidence of linkage disequilibrium between the two loci (Delta = 0.068). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the TNF gene complex, at least in Caucasoid individuals and for the considered polymorphisms, does not seem to play a major role as genetic risk factor in COPD and bronchiectasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Patuzzo
- Istituto di Biologia e Genetica, Università degli Studi di Verona Italy
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19
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Patuzzo C, Trabetti E, Malerba G, Martinati LC, Boner AL, Pescollderungg L, Zanoni G, Pignatti PF. No linkage or association of the IL-4Ralpha gene Q576R mutation with atopic asthma in Italian families. J Med Genet 2000; 37:382-4. [PMID: 10905893 PMCID: PMC1734581 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.37.5.382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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20
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Malerba G, Trabetti E, Patuzzo C, Lauciello MC, Galavotti R, Pescollderungg L, Boner AL, Pignatti PF. Candidate genes and a genome-wide search in Italian families with atopic asthmatic children. Clin Exp Allergy 1999; 29 Suppl 4:27-30. [PMID: 10641562] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
To identify genetic factors for susceptibility to atopy and asthma in childhood, 1,083 subjects were identified, mainly from the Veneto region and Bolzano province in North-east Italy, of whom 817 were from 172 families with at least two affected people, 189 were sporadic cases, and 77 unrelated controls. All the subjects were characterized for clinical asthma (asthma), total serum IgE (IgE), skin prick test (SPT) reactivity to common aeroallergens and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) to methacoline test. Atopy was defined as SPT positivity and/or increased IgE levels. Several candidate genes were investigated, and genome-wide linkage analysis was been initiated. The high affinity IgE receptor beta chain (FcepsilonRIbeta) locus showed significant allele sharing in affected sib-pairs for BHR and for SPT positivity. Lymphotoxin alpha (Ltalpha) gene Ncol mutation showed a suggestive linkage with atopy, and the LTalphaNcol 2/2 genotype was found to be associated with increased total IgE levels in all females. No evidence for linkage or association of any phenotype to the tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) - 308 mutation or to the interleukin 4 receptor alpha (IL-4Ralpha) Q576R mutation was found. BHR, asthma and increased IgE were found to be linked to X and Y long arm pseudoautosomal region (PAR2) markers. Initial data were also collected from linkage analysis with chromosome 12, 14, and 19, DNA markers. Non-parametric multipoint analysis provides preliminary evidence for linkage of asthma with D12S390, of atopy with D19S601, and of BHR with D14S617. These results suggest that several genetic factors contribute to different allergic asthma phenotypes in the population investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Malerba
- Department of Mother and Child, Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Italy
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Trabetti E, Patuzzo C, Malerba G, Galavotti R, Martinati LC, Boner AL, Pignatti PF. Association of a lymphotoxin alpha gene polymorphism and atopy in Italian families. J Med Genet 1999; 36:323-5. [PMID: 10227402 PMCID: PMC1734358] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a proinflammatory cytokine that increases human airway tissue responsiveness and is considered a candidate gene for asthma. Two common polymorphisms (LTalphaNcoI and TNFalpha-308) in the TNF gene complex were studied in 600 subjects from 131 Italian families with atopic asthmatic children. Skin prick test (SPT), total IgE levels, atopy (defined as increased IgE levels or SPT positivity or both), bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and clinical asthma were investigated. The observed distribution of the identical by descent alleles at the LTalphaNcoI locus was different from expected for SPT and atopy (p=0.015). The LTalphaNcoI genotype distribution for increased IgE levels was different between males and females (p=0.0011), and an association of the 2.2 genotype with increased IgE levels was observed in females (p=0.0032). The results indicate that the LTalpha gene, or a closely linked locus, is associated with atopy, and suggest a sex difference in the effect of the gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Trabetti
- Institute of Biology and Genetics, University of Verona, Italy
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Vinante F, Rigo A, Tecchio C, Patuzzo C, Ricetti MM, Morosato L, Cassatella MA, Chilosi M, Pizzolo G. Preferential release of high amounts of interleukin-8 by myeloid blasts showing monocytic differentiation. Haematologica 1996; 81:195-200. [PMID: 8767523] [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: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In myeloid blasts, the expression and release of the multifunctional chemokine IL-8 could be expected to be differentiation-associated. METHODS We investigated the profile of interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression and release by leukemic cells obtained at diagnosis from 42 untreated adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia of various FAB subtypes (2 M0, 7 M1, 6 M2, 6 M3, 10 M4 and 11 M5). IL-8 transcripts were evaluated by Northern blot and densitometric analysis. IL-8 release by myeloid blasts was evaluated by a specific ELISA either in sera at diagnosis or in supernatants (SN) obtained from cultured leukemic cells. RESULTS In basal conditions, Northern blot analysis revealed detectable IL-8 transcripts in 15/29 cases, eleven of which were classified as M4-M5 and 4 as FAB M0-M3. Densitometric analysis of IL-8 transcript bands showed higher expression in M4-M5 than in M0-M3 cases (mean values +/- SD: 16.5 +/- 21 and 0.77 +/- 1.36 densitometric units, respectively; p = 0.012). Higher IL-8 serum levels were observed in leukemic patients as opposed to normal controls (mean values +/- SD: 0.53 +/- 0.75 vs 0.003 +/- 0.014 ng/mL, respectively; p = 0.006). Furthermore, a trend (though not of statistical significance) towards higher IL-8 serum values was observed in M4-M5 as opposed to M0-M3 subtypes. After 24 hours of culture, the majority of myeloid blasts (95%) spontaneously released detectable amounts of IL-8 into SN. However, M4-M5 released substantially higher amounts of IL-8 than M0-M3 blasts (mean +/- SD: 68 +/- 46 and 8.5 +/- 12 ng/mL, respectively; p < 0.001). This difference between M0-M3 and M4-M5 blasts was already observed after 6 hours of culture and increased over 72 hours. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm and further support the preferential release of high levels of IL-8 by myeloid blasts showing monocytic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Vinante
- Department of Hematology, Verona University School of Medicine, Italy
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