1
|
Zorzi C, Barra F, Albanese M, Tosi M, Dal Pozzolo C, Stepniewska A, De Mitri P, Roviglione G, Clarizia R, Ceccaroni M. Can AAGL 2021 Endometriosis Classification be Adopted at Preoperative Ultrasound for Reliably Predicting Surgical Complexity? J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2022.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
2
|
Agrati C, Castilletti C, Battella S, Cimini E, Matusali G, Sommella A, Sacchi A, Colavita F, Contino AM, Bordoni V, Meschi S, Gramigna G, Barra F, Grassi G, Bordi L, Lapa D, Notari S, Casetti R, Bettini A, Francalancia M, Ciufoli F, Vergori A, Vita S, Gentile M, Raggioli A, Plazzi MM, Bacchieri A, Nicastri E, Antinori A, Milleri S, Lanini S, Colloca S, Girardi E, Camerini R, Ippolito G, Vaia F, Folgori A, Capone S. Safety and immune response kinetics of GRAd-COV2 vaccine: phase 1 clinical trial results. NPJ Vaccines 2022; 7:111. [PMID: 36153335 PMCID: PMC9509317 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-022-00531-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the successful deployment of efficacious vaccines and therapeutics, the development of novel vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 remains a major goal to increase vaccine doses availability and accessibility for lower income setting. We report here on the kinetics of Spike-specific humoral and T-cell response in young and old volunteers over 6 months follow-up after a single intramuscular administration of GRAd-COV2, a gorilla adenoviral vector-based vaccine candidate currently in phase-2 of clinical development. At all three tested vaccine dosages, Spike binding and neutralizing antibodies were induced and substantially maintained up to 3 months, to then contract at 6 months. Potent T-cell responses were readily induced and sustained throughout the study period, with only minor decline. No major differences in immune response to GRAd-COV2 vaccination were observed in the two age cohorts. In light of its favorable safety and immunogenicity, GRAd-COV2 is a valuable candidate for further clinical development and potential addition to the COVID-19 vaccine toolbox to help fighting SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Collapse
|
3
|
Barra F, Scala C, Bogliolo S, Di Donato N, Ceccaroni M, Ferrero S. O-309 Surgery versus IVF/ICSI in infertile women with rectosigmoid endometriosis: the FERTILITY-RECTOSIGMOID study. Hum Reprod 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac105.106] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
To compare the live birth rate in infertile patients with rectosigmoid endometriosis treated by surgery or IVF/ICSI.
Summary answer
In infertile women with rectosigmoid endometriosis, IVF/ICSI is associated with a higher live birth rate and a shorter time to conceive than first-line surgery.
What is known already
The choice between surgery and IVF/ICSI is based on several variables including concomitant infertility factors, presence of (sub)occlusive symptoms, preference of patients. Until now, there is no evidence to favor first-line IVF/ICSI or first-line surgery in women affected by rectosigmoid endometriosis wishing to conceive.
Study design, size, duration
This was a prospective patient’s preference study enrolling infertile women with rectosigmoid endometriosis who underwent first-line surgery or IVF/ICSI. Symptoms and fertility outcomes were compared between the two groups.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
Rectosigmoid endometriosis was diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance enema. All study patients underwent computed tomographic colonography (CTC) to assess the degree of stenosis of the intestinal lumen. Inclusion criteria were infertility; bilateral tubal patency; age < 40 years. Exclusion criteria were history of surgery for endometriosis; previous IVF/ICSI cycles; oocyte donation or vitrified oocyte procedures; poor ovarian reserve; estimated bowel stenosis > 70% at CTC; (sub)occlusive symptoms; oligospermia (sperm count < 15 million/mL).
Main results and the role of chance
Two hundred twenty-nine patients underwent IVF/ICSI. Patients underwent up to 4 IVF/ICSI cycles. Overall, 128 women had a live birth (55.9%; 95% C.I., 49.2%-62.4%). Two bowel sub occlusions occurred during IVF-ICSI. 198 patients underwent surgical treatment of rectosigmoid endometriosis. Nine patients have postoperative complications: four rectovaginal fistula, two anastomotic leakage, two pelvic abscess and one postoperative bleeding. At a median follow-up of 23 months after surgery (range, 12-56 months), 91 women had a live birth (44.9%; 95% C.I., 38.0%-56.1%). The live-birth rate was significantly higher in patients who underwent IVF/ICSI than in those who underwent surgery (p = 0.047). The time to conception that resulted in live birth was significantly shorter in patients who underwent IVF/ICSI (mean ± SD, 11.9 ± 7.6 months) than in those who underwent surgery (18.5 ± 8.1 months; p = 0.037). Six months after surgery or first IVF/ICSI cycle, there was a higher improvement of pain (p < 0.001) and intestinal symptoms (p < 0.001) in women surgically treated. No bowel endometriosis-related complication occurred during pregnancy. There was no difference in perinatal outcomes between the two groups.
Limitations, reasons for caution
The nonrandom allocation to treatments and the relatively small sample sized limits the strength of our results.
Wider implications of the findings
IVF/ICSI is associated with a higher live birth rate and a shorter time to conceive than surgery. The disadvantages of IVF/ICSI are potential endometriosis-related complications during the procedure and persistence of symptoms. Surgery improves symptoms but it has a higher risk of postoperative complications, which may negatively impact spontaneous conception.
Trial registration number
CE Liguria - ID 10766 - n. 394 (Approval: 10/2020)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 SRL, Gynecology and Obstetrics , Genoa, Italy
| | - C Scala
- Gaslini Institute- Genova- Italy, Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Genova, Italy
| | - S Bogliolo
- “P.O del Tigullio” Hospital-ASL4, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology , Lavagna GE, Italy
| | - N Di Donato
- Queen Alexandra Hospital, Southern Endometriosis Centre -, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
| | - M Ceccaroni
- IRCCS Ospedale Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Negrar VR, Italy
| | - S Ferrero
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 SRL, Gynecology and Obstetrics , Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lanini S, Capone S, Antinori A, Milleri S, Nicastri E, Camerini R, Agrati C, Castilletti C, Mori F, Sacchi A, Matusali G, Gagliardini R, Ammendola V, Cimini E, Grazioli F, Scorzolini L, Napolitano F, Plazzi MM, Soriani M, De Luca A, Battella S, Sommella A, Contino AM, Barra F, Gentile M, Raggioli A, Shi Y, Girardi E, Maeurer M, Capobianchi MR, Vaia F, Piacentini M, Kroemer G, Vitelli A, Colloca S, Folgori A, Ippolito G, Ottou S, Vita S, Vergori A, D'Abramo A, Petrecchia A, Montaldo C, Scalise E, Grassi G, Casetti R, Bordoni V, Notari S, Colavita F, Meschi S, Lapa D, Bordi L, Murachelli S, Tambasco T, Grillo A, Masone E, Marchioni E, Bardhi D, Porzio O, Cocca F, Murachelli S, Turrini I, Malescio F, Ziviani L, Lawlor R, Poli F, Martire F, Zamboni D, Mazzaferri F. GRAd-COV2, a gorilla adenovirus-based candidate vaccine against COVID-19, is safe and immunogenic in younger and older adults. Sci Transl Med 2021; 14:eabj1996. [PMID: 34698501 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Lanini
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Antinori
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Milleri
- Centro Ricerche Cliniche di Verona srl; 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Emanuele Nicastri
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Agrati
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Castilletti
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Sacchi
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Matusali
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Gagliardini
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Cimini
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Scorzolini
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria M Plazzi
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Aldo De Luca
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yufang Shi
- First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University; Suzhou, 215008, Jiangsu, China.,Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences; 200061, Shanghai, China
| | - Enrico Girardi
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | - Markus Maeurer
- Division of Immunotherapy, ImmunoSurgery, Champalimaud Foundation; 1400-038, Lisboa, Portugal.,I Medical Clinic, University of Mainz; 55122, Mainz, Germany
| | - Maria R Capobianchi
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy.,Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, 00131, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Vaia
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Piacentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata; 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Inserm U1138, Institut Universitaire de France, 75006, Paris, France.,Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Institut Gustave Roussy; 94805, Villejuif, France.,Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou; 75015, Paris, France.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, 17164, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Giuseppe Ippolito
- Istituto Nazionale per Le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani IRCCS; 00149, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Capone S, Raggioli A, Gentile M, Battella S, Lahm A, Sommella A, Contino AM, Urbanowicz RA, Scala R, Barra F, Leuzzi A, Lilli E, Miselli G, Noto A, Ferraiuolo M, Talotta F, Tsoleridis T, Castilletti C, Matusali G, Colavita F, Lapa D, Meschi S, Capobianchi M, Soriani M, Folgori A, Ball JK, Colloca S, Vitelli A. Immunogenicity of a new gorilla adenovirus vaccine candidate for COVID-19. Mol Ther 2021; 29:2412-2423. [PMID: 33895322 PMCID: PMC8062434 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the emergent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) threatens global public health, and there is an urgent need to develop safe and effective vaccines. Here, we report the generation and the preclinical evaluation of a novel replication-defective gorilla adenovirus-vectored vaccine encoding the pre-fusion stabilized Spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2. We show that our vaccine candidate, GRAd-COV2, is highly immunogenic both in mice and macaques, eliciting both functional antibodies that neutralize SARS-CoV-2 infection and block Spike protein binding to the ACE2 receptor, and a robust, T helper (Th)1-dominated cellular response. We show here that the pre-fusion stabilized Spike antigen is superior to the wild type in inducing ACE2-interfering, SARS-CoV-2-neutralizing antibodies. To face the unprecedented need for vaccine manufacturing at a massive scale, different GRAd genome deletions were compared to select the vector backbone showing the highest productivity in stirred tank bioreactors. This preliminary dataset identified GRAd-COV2 as a potential COVID-19 vaccine candidate, supporting the translation of the GRAd-COV2 vaccine in a currently ongoing phase I clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04528641).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Richard A Urbanowicz
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Wolfson Centre for Emerging Virus Research, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Theocharis Tsoleridis
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Wolfson Centre for Emerging Virus Research, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Concetta Castilletti
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Matusali
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Colavita
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Lapa
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Meschi
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Capobianchi
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Jonathan K Ball
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Wolfson Centre for Emerging Virus Research, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Evangelisti G, Ferrero S, Barra F. Linzagolix choline. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone, (GnRH) receptor antagonist, Treatment of uterine fibroids, Treatment of endometriosis. DRUG FUTURE 2021. [DOI: 10.1358/dof.2021.46.11.3331001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
7
|
Evangelisti G, Barra F, D'Alessandro G, Tantari M, Stigliani S, Della Corte L, Bifulco G, Ferrero S. Trabectedin for the therapy of ovarian cancer. Drugs Today (Barc) 2020; 56:669-688. [PMID: 33185631 DOI: 10.1358/dot.2020.56.10.3187001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Trabectedin is a marine-derivate antitumor drug with a relevant cytotoxic activity and good safety profile. It has been investigated for the treatment of solid diseases, including ovarian cancer (OC), breast cancer, and soft-tissue sarcoma. In 2009, results from the pivotal trial OVA-301 led the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to the approval of trabectedin in combination with PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin for the treatment of platinum-sensitive recurrent OC; further studies revealed an additional benefit also in the subgroup of patients with partially platinum-sensitive disease and in those with a BRCA-mutated status. Additionally, trabectedin demonstrated to prolong the time interval to the subsequent chemotherapy line. Recently, the improved understanding of the antitumor action exerted by trabectedin paved the way to new investigational trials exploring its combination with targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Evangelisti
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - F Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - G D'Alessandro
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Tantari
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - S Stigliani
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - L Della Corte
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - G Bifulco
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - S Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Esposito I, Cicconi P, D'Alise AM, Brown A, Esposito M, Swadling L, Holst PJ, Bassi MR, Stornaiuolo M, Mori F, Vassilev V, Li W, Donnison T, Gentile C, Turner B, von Delft A, Del Sorbo M, Barra F, Contino AM, Abbate A, Novellino E, Thomsen AR, Christensen JP, Lahm A, Grazioli F, Ammendola V, Siani L, Colloca S, Klenerman P, Nicosia A, Dorrell L, Folgori A, Capone S, Barnes E. MHC class II invariant chain-adjuvanted viral vectored vaccines enhances T cell responses in humans. Sci Transl Med 2020; 12:12/548/eaaz7715. [PMID: 32554708 PMCID: PMC7610808 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaz7715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Strategies to enhance the induction of high magnitude T cell responses through vaccination are urgently needed. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II-associated invariant chain (Ii) plays a critical role in antigen presentation, forming MHC class II peptide complexes for the generation of CD4+ T cell responses. Preclinical studies evaluating the fusion of Ii to antigens encoded in vector delivery systems have shown that this strategy may enhance T cell immune responses to the encoded antigen. We now assess this strategy in humans, using chimpanzee adenovirus 3 and modified vaccinia Ankara vectors encoding human Ii fused to the nonstructural (NS) antigens of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in a heterologous prime/boost regimen. Vaccination was well tolerated and enhanced the peak magnitude, breadth, and proliferative capacity of anti-HCV T cell responses compared to non-Ii vaccines in humans. Very high frequencies of HCV-specific T cells were elicited in humans. Polyfunctional HCV-specific CD8+ and CD4+ responses were induced with up to 30% of CD3+CD8+ cells targeting single HCV epitopes; these were mostly effector memory cells with a high proportion expressing T cell activation and cytolytic markers. No volunteers developed anti-Ii T cell or antibody responses. Using a mouse model and in vitro experiments, we show that Ii fused to NS increases HCV immune responses through enhanced ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. This strategy could be used to develop more potent HCV vaccines that may contribute to the HCV elimination targets and paves the way for developing class II Ii vaccines against cancer and other infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Esposito
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Paola Cicconi
- The Jenner Institute Laboratories, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | | | - Anthony Brown
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | | | - Leo Swadling
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Peter Johannes Holst
- Center for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.,InProTher ApS, BioInnovation Institute, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Rosaria Bassi
- Center for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mariano Stornaiuolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Wenqin Li
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Timothy Donnison
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Chiara Gentile
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Bethany Turner
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Annette von Delft
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Allan Randrup Thomsen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul Klenerman
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.,The Jenner Institute Laboratories, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Alfredo Nicosia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy.,Keires AG, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucy Dorrell
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.,Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Headington OX3 9DU, UK
| | | | | | - Eleanor Barnes
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK. .,The Jenner Institute Laboratories, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
D'Alessando G, Barra F, Evangelisti G, Ferrero S. Fezolinetant. Tachykinin NK3 receptor antagonist, Treatment of menopausal-related vasomotor symptoms. DRUG FUTURE 2020. [DOI: 10.1358/dof.2020.45.8.3151523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
10
|
D'Alessandro G, Barra F, Boutros A, Evangelisti G, Ferro Desideri L, Moioli M, Ferrero S. Tisotumab vedotin. Antibody-drug conjugate directed to tissue factor, Tubulin polymerization inhibitor, Treatment of solid tumors. DRUG FUTURE 2020. [DOI: 10.1358/dof.2020.45.10.3168441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
11
|
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas represent the most common form of benign gynecological tumors affecting 20-40% of women during their life. Several therapeutic options are available for treating these patients. The use of medical treatment for myomas has largely grown in the last years, in particular for women who would refuse, postpone or are not candidates for surgery. In the last years, the clinical investigation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists (GnRH-ants) has emerged. This class of drugs exerts pure competitive antagonistic activity on the GnRH receptor at the pituitary gland, producing an immediate stop in the release of gonadotropins and sex steroids. Relugolix is an orally active nonpeptide GnRH-ant, recently licensed for marketing in Japan for the treatment of symptoms related to uterine myomas. Currently, several phase III clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate this molecule in this setting in the U.S. and Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - M Seca
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - L Della Corte
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - P Giampaolino
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - S Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
First-line medical therapies for treating pain associated with endometriosis mainly consist in combined oral contraceptives and progestins. However, some women, having persistence of symptoms, may require further therapeutic options. Among these, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists (GnRH-as) have been widely employed in the last 30 years, despite being characterized by an unfavorable safety profile. Currently, new alternative investigational options are being investigated to treat this benign chronic disease. GnRH antagonists (GnRH-ants) are innovative hormonal drugs that do not induce flare-up effects and present also a limited onset of hypoestrogenic symptoms; in fact, their pharmacological mechanism of action, which consists in pure antagonistic activity, differs from that of traditional GnRH-as. In July 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved elagolix sodium for the management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis, after the drug showed promising efficacy and safety results in previous phase III trials. This monograph aims to provide a complete overview of the pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy and safety of this GnRH-ant for treat¬ing patients with endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Scala
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - S Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ferrero S, Scala C, Stabilini C, Vellone VG, Barra F, Leone Roberti Maggiore U. Transvaginal sonography with vs without bowel preparation in diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis: prospective study. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2019; 53:402-409. [PMID: 30079504 DOI: 10.1002/uog.19194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal sonography (TVS) with vs without bowel preparation (BP) in detecting the presence of rectosigmoid endometriosis. Secondary objectives were to compare the diagnostic accuracy of the two techniques in estimating infiltration of the submucosa, length of the largest rectosigmoid nodules, distance of the nodules from the anal verge and presence of multifocal disease. METHODS This was a prospective study of patients with symptoms of pelvic pain for more than 6 months and/or suspicion of endometriosis referred to our institution between October 2016 and April 2018. Participants underwent a first TVS without BP followed by TVS with BP within a time interval of 1 week to 3 months. The examinations were performed independently and blindly by two sonographers. Only patients who underwent laparoscopy within the 6 months following the second ultrasound examination were included. Ultrasound results using the two techniques were compared with surgical and histological findings. RESULTS Of the 262 patients included in the study, 118 had rectosigmoid endometriosis confirmed at surgery. There was no significant difference in accuracy between TVS with and that without BP in diagnosing the presence of rectosigmoid endometriosis (93.5% vs 92.3%; P = 0.453). No significant difference was observed in accuracy between TVS with and that without BP in diagnosing submucosal infiltration (88.8% vs 84.6%; P = 0.238) and multifocal disease (97.2% vs 95.2%; P = 0.727) in patients diagnosed sonographically with rectosigmoid endometriosis. The accuracy of TVS with BP was similar to that of TVS without BP in estimating the maximum diameter of the largest nodule (P = 0.644) and the distance between the more caudal rectosigmoid nodule and the anal verge (P = 0.162). CONCLUSION BP does not improve the diagnostic performance of TVS in detecting rectosigmoid endometriosis and in assessing characteristics of endometriotic nodules. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Scala
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Stabilini
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, IRCCS San Martino Hospital and National Institute for Cancer Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - V G Vellone
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, IRCCS San Martino Hospital and National Institute for Cancer Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - F Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS AOU San Martino - IST, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
|
15
|
Ferrero Desideri L, Cutolo C, Barra F, Ferrero S, Traverso C. Omidenepag isopropyl for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Drugs Today (Barc) 2019; 55:377-384. [DOI: 10.1358/dot.2019.55.6.2984806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
16
|
|
17
|
Scala C, Leone Roberti Maggiore U, Racca A, Barra F, Vellone VG, Venturini PL, Ferrero S. Influence of adenomyosis on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes in women with endometriosis. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2018; 52:666-671. [PMID: 29266553 DOI: 10.1002/uog.18989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Several studies have investigated the correlation between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes. However, the role of adenomyosis as a risk factor for adverse perinatal outcome in women with endometriosis has yet to be established. The aim of this study was to explore if fetal and maternal outcomes, in particular the incidence of a small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infant, are different in pregnant women with endometriosis only from in those with the concomitant presence of diffuse or focal adenomyosis. METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of data collected prospectively during a 3-year period. We included 206 pregnant women with endometriosis: 148 (71.8%) with endometriosis only, 38 (18.4%) with focal adenomyosis and 20 (9.7%) with diffuse adenomyosis. Adenomyosis was diagnosed using ultrasonography and was classified as focal or diffuse. The study included patients who conceived spontaneously or by an assisted reproductive technique. Demographics, ultrasound variables and outcome were compared between women with endometriosis only and those with diffuse and those with focal adenomyosis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association of variables with SGA at birth in women with diffuse and those with focal adenomyosis. RESULTS The three groups were similar in demographic characteristics (age, body mass index, mode of conception). Patients with diffuse adenomyosis compared with those with endometriosis only had significantly lower pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (0.61 vs 0.88 multiple of the median, P < 0.001), higher mean uterine artery pulsatility index in the first (2.23 vs 1.67, P < 0.001) and second (1.30 vs 0.94, P < 0.001) trimesters of pregnancy, and higher incidence of SGA (40% vs 10.8%, P < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found in patients with focal adenomyosis compared with those with endometriosis only. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that diffuse adenomyosis (odds ratio = 3.744; 95% CI, 1.158-12.099; P = 0.027) was the only independent risk factor for SGA. CONCLUSIONS The presence of diffuse adenomyosis in pregnant women with endometriosis is strongly associated with delivery of a SGA infant. Women with diffuse adenomyosis should be treated as being at high risk of placental dysfunction, and these pregnancies might therefore need closer monitoring. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Scala
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 S.r.l., Genova, Italy
| | - U Leone Roberti Maggiore
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 S.r.l., Genova, Italy
| | - A Racca
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - F Barra
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 S.r.l., Genova, Italy
| | - V G Vellone
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - P L Venturini
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 S.r.l., Genova, Italy
| | - S Ferrero
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Piazza della Vittoria 14 S.r.l., Genova, Italy
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Scala C, Leone Roberti Maggiore U, Barra F, Venturini P, Ferrero S. Norethindrone acetate versus extended-cycle oral contraceptive (Seasonique ® ) in the treatment of endometriosis symptoms: A prospective open-label comparative study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 222:89-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
19
|
Postiglione I, Barra F, Aloj SM, Palumbo G. Photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolaevulinic acid and DNA damage: unravelling roles of p53 and ABCG2. Cell Prolif 2016; 49:523-38. [PMID: 27389299 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In spite of high sensitivity of A549 cells (p53(+/+) ) to lethal effects of photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolaevulinic acid (5-ALA/PDT), DNA damage was observed only in H1299 cells (p53(-/-) ), suggesting that p53 may exert a protective effect. Studies on human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines HCT-116, and their cognate knockouts for p53, were not entirely consistent with the assumption above. Exploring alternative explanations for such conflicting behaviour, we observed that expression of the ATP-binding cassette G2 (ABCG2), a regulator of cell component efflux, had important effects on PDT-generated DNA injury in PC3 cells (prostate) which are p53(-/-) and positive for ABCG2. Addition of an ABCG2 inhibitor in ABCG2 positive A549 (p53(+/+) ) and PC3 (p53(-/-) ) cells eliminated resistance to DNA damage. MATERIALS AND METHODS All cell lines investigated were incubated with 5-ALA and irradiated. Effects of PDT were evaluated assessing residual cell viability, cell-cycle profiles, PpIX localization, comet assay and Western blotting. Identical measurements were made in the presence of ABCG2 inhibitor, in cells expressing the transporter. RESULTS Our data show that cell aptitude to defend its DNA from PDT-induced injury was mainly ruled by ABCG2 expression. These findings, while providing helpful information in predicting effectiveness of 5-ALA/PDT, may indicate a way to shift PDT from a palliative to a more effective approach in anti-cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Postiglione
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - F Barra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - S M Aloj
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - G Palumbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Pollio A, Zarrelli A, Romanucci V, Di Mauro A, Barra F, Pinto G, Crescenzi E, Roscetto E, Palumbo G. Polyphenolic Profile and Targeted Bioactivity of Methanolic Extracts from Mediterranean Ethnomedicinal Plants on Human Cancer Cell Lines. Molecules 2016; 21:395. [PMID: 27023497 PMCID: PMC6274438 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21040395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The methanol extracts of the aerial part of four ethnomedicinal plants of Mediterranean region, two non-seed vascular plants, Equisetum hyemale L. and Phyllitis scolopendrium (L.) Newman, and two Spermatophyta, Juniperus communis L. (J. communis) and Cotinus coggygria Scop. (C. coggygria), were screened against four human cells lines (A549, MCF7, TK6 and U937). Only the extracts of J. communis and C. coggygria showed marked cytotoxic effects, affecting both cell morphology and growth. A dose-dependent effect of these two extracts was also observed on the cell cycle distribution. Incubation of all the cell lines in a medium containing J. communis extract determined a remarkable accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase, whereas the C. coggygria extract induced a significant increase in the percentage of G1 cells. The novelty of our findings stands on the observation that the two extracts, consistently, elicited coherent effects on the cell cycle in four cell lines, independently from their phenotype, as two of them have epithelial origin and grow adherent and two are lymphoblastoid and grow in suspension. Even the expression profiles of several proteins regulating cell cycle progression and cell death were affected by both extracts. LC-MS investigation of methanol extract of C. coggygria led to the identification of twelve flavonoids (compounds 1–11, 19) and eight polyphenols derivatives (12–18, 20), while in J. communis extract, eight flavonoids (21–28), a α-ionone glycoside (29) and a lignin (30) were found. Although many of these compounds have interesting individual biological activities, their natural blends seem to exert specific effects on the proliferation of cell lines either growing adherent or in suspension, suggesting potential use in fighting cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Pollio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso di MS Angelo, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Armando Zarrelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso di MS Angelo, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Valeria Romanucci
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Sannio Tech, P.zza San G. Moscati 8, SS Appia km 256, 82030 Apollosa (BN), Italy.
| | - Alfredo Di Mauro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Federica Barra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Pinto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso di MS Angelo, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Elvira Crescenzi
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Roscetto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Palumbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Postiglione I, Chiaviello A, Barra F, Roscetto E, Soriano AA, Catania MR, Palumbo G, Pierantoni GM. Mitochondrial Malfunctioning, Proteasome Arrest and Apoptosis in Cancer Cells by Focused Intracellular Generation of Oxygen Radicals. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:20375-91. [PMID: 26343643 PMCID: PMC4613209 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160920375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Photofrin/photodynamic therapy (PDT) at sub-lethal doses induced a transient stall in proteasome activity in surviving A549 (p53+/+) and H1299 (p53−/−) cells as indicated by the time-dependent decline/recovery of chymotrypsin-like activity. Indeed, within 3 h of incubation, Photofrin invaded the cytoplasm and localized preferentially within the mitochondria. Its light activation determined a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and a reversible arrest in proteasomal activity. A similar result is obtained by treating cells with Antimycin and Rotenone, indicating, as a common denominator of this effect, the ATP decrease. Both inhibitors, however, were more toxic to cells as the recovery of proteasomal activity was incomplete. We evaluated whether combining PDT (which is a treatment for killing tumor cells, per se, and inducing proteasome arrest in the surviving ones) with Bortezomib doses capable of sustaining the stall would protract the arrest with sufficient time to induce apoptosis in remaining cells. The evaluation of the mitochondrial membrane depolarization, residual proteasome and mitochondrial enzymatic activities, colony-forming capabilities, and changes in protein expression profiles in A549 and H1299 cells under a combined therapeutic regimen gave results consistent with our hypothesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Postiglione
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Angela Chiaviello
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Federica Barra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Roscetto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Amata A Soriano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Catania
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Palumbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Maria Pierantoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples 80131, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Barra F, Roscetto E, Soriano AA, Vollaro A, Postiglione I, Pierantoni GM, Palumbo G, Catania MR. Photodynamic and Antibiotic Therapy in Combination to Fight Biofilms and Resistant Surface Bacterial Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:20417-30. [PMID: 26343645 PMCID: PMC4613211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160920417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although photodynamic therapy (PDT), a therapeutic approach that involves a photosensitizer, light and O2, has been principally considered for the treatment of specific types of cancers, other applications exist, including the treatment of infections. Unfortunately, PDT does not always guarantee full success since it exerts lethal effects only in cells that have taken up a sufficient amount of photosensitizer and have been exposed to adequate light doses, conditions that are not always achieved. Based on our previous experience on the combination PDT/chemotherapy, we have explored the possibility of fighting bacteria that commonly crowd infected surfaces by combining PDT with an antibiotic, which normally does not harm the strain at low concentrations. To this purpose, we employed 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), a pro-drug that, once absorbed by proliferating bacteria, is converted into the natural photosensitizer Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), followed by Gentamicin. Photoactivation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) which damage or kill the cell, while Gentamicin, even at low doses, ends the work. Our experiments, in combination, have been highly successful against biofilms produced by several Gram positive bacteria (i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, etc.). This original approach points to potentially new and wide applications in the therapy of infections of superficial wounds and sores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Barra
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Roscetto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Amata A Soriano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Adriana Vollaro
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Postiglione
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Maria Pierantoni
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Palumbo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Catania
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Carenzo L, Barra F, Messina A, Colombo D, Fontana T, Della Corte F. Overtriage and undertriage in a prehospital system over 7 years. Crit Care 2013. [PMCID: PMC3642831 DOI: 10.1186/cc12214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
|
24
|
Antona B, Gonzalez E, Barrio A, Barra F, Sanchez I, Cebrian JL. Strabometry precision: intra-examiner repeatability and agreement in measuring the magnitude of the angle of latent binocular ocular deviations (heterophorias or latent strabismus). Binocul Vis Strabolog Q Simms Romano 2011; 26:91-104. [PMID: 21736550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE This study was designed to compare heterophoria measurements obtained using the methods: prisms cover test (prism alternate cover test), von Graefe technique, Maddox rod test and modified Thorington test. Given the different methodological features of these tests, our working hypothesis was that these tests would not be interchangeable and repeatability would vary. METHODS Horizontal deviation measurements were made at: far distance (six meters) and near distance (40 centimeters) on two occasions in 61 young subjects of mean age 19.7 years (range 18 -32 years), with essentially normal eyes and vision, who were not familiar with the methods used. Statistical repeatability and agreement were determined using the Bland and Altman method. RESULTS Repeatability: No difference between the results of the various heterophoria tests was statistically significant. Coefficients of repeatability were always best when the tests were conducted at far, the cover test being the most repeatable. Agreement: Mean differences between absolute values ranged from 1.7 prism diopters to 5.1 prism diopters for measurements at far and from 2.1 prism diopters to 3.4 prism diopters at near. CONCLUSIONS The alternating prism cover test was the most repeatable test for measuring latent horizontal deviations. Among the subjective tests, the modified Thorington test was the most repeatable. The low level of agreement observed between the different tests makes their interchangeable use in clinical practice not recommended.
Collapse
|
25
|
Antona B, Sanchez I, Barrio A, Barra F, Gonzalez E. Intra-examiner repeatability and agreement in accommodative response measurements. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2009; 29:606-14. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-1313.2009.00679.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
26
|
Antona B, Barra F, Barrio A, Gonzalez E, Sanchez I. Repeatability intraexaminer and agreement in amplitude of accommodation measurements. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2008; 247:121-7. [PMID: 18791730 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-008-0938-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2008] [Revised: 08/08/2008] [Accepted: 08/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical measurement of the amplitude of accommodation (AA) provides an indication of maximum accommodative ability. To determine whether there has been a significant change in the AA, it is important to have a good idea of the repeatability of the measurement method used. The aim of the present study was to compare AA measurements made using three different subjective clinical methods: the push-up, push-down, and minus lens techniques. These methods differ in terms of the apparent size of the target, the end point used, or the components of the accommodation response stimulated. Our working hypothesis was that these methods are likely to show different degrees of repeatability such that they should not be used interchangeably. METHODS The AA of the right eye was measured on two separate occasions in 61 visually normal subjects of mean age 19.7 years (range 18 to 32). The repeatability of the tests and agreement between them was estimated by the Bland and Altman method. We determined the mean difference (MD) and the 95% limits of agreement for the repeatability study (COR) and for the agreement study (COA). RESULTS The COR for the push-up, push-down, and minus lens techniques were +/-4.76, +/-4.00, and +/-2.52D, respectively. Higher values of AA were obtained using the push-up procedure compared to the push-down and minus lens methods. The push-down method also yielded a larger mean AA than the negative-lens method. MD between the three methods were high in clinical terms, always over 1.75D, and the COA differed substantially by at least +/-4.50D. The highest agreement interval was observed when we compared AA measurements made using minus lenses and the push-up method (+/-5.65D). CONCLUSIONS The minus lens method exhibited the best repeatability, least MD (-0.08D) and the smallest COR. Agreement between the three techniques was poor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Antona
- Departamento de Optica II (Optometria y Vision), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Affiliation(s)
- B Antona
- Departamento de Optica II (Optometria y Vision), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gonzalez E, Barra F, Sanchez I, Antona B, Barrio A. High AC/A accommodative esotropia strabismus treated with contact lenses: a single case design (N=1) study. Binocul Vis Strabismus Q 2007; 22:90-5. [PMID: 17688417] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The purpose was to determine the efficacy of two types of contact lenses (spherical disposable and aplanatic) as treatment in a patient with esotropia with a high Accommodative Convergence/Accommodation Ratio (AC/A). Due to the possibility of the appearance of accommodative insufficiency in this kind of patient, (i.e., following many years of bifocal glasses use), the elimination of the plus addition lens is advisable. Nevertheless, in some patients, this change leads to the appearance of a residual angle of esodeviation in near vision. It was expected that monofocal aplanatic contact lenses could achieve, due to their optical characteristics, an accurate and orthotropic binocular alignment, without aggravating an undesirable manifestation of the accommodative insufficiency. METHODS An experimental design of a single case (N=1) was used in which the subject acted as his own control. With bifocal glasses the subject displayed stability in his binocular and accommodative system at every distance of vision for the past three years. We compared the efficacy of two different types of hydrophilic contact lenses to control the angle of deviation, both at distance and at near vision. RESULTS Neither of the two contact lenses produced the results of stability and the correct binocular alignment that had been achieved with bifocal glasses. This subject experienced a worse manifest esodeviation in distance vision with aplanatic lenses than with the disposable ones. CONCLUSIONS These monofocal contact lenses did not create acceptable binocular alignment and stability in a subject with a high AC/A accommodative esotropia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Gonzalez
- Escuela Universitaria de Optica, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
We study the classical limit of quantum mechanics on graphs by introducing a Wigner function for graphs. The classical dynamics is compared to the quantum dynamics obtained from the propagator. In particular, we consider extended open graphs whose classical dynamics generate a diffusion process. The transport properties of the classical system are revealed in the scattering resonances and in the time evolution of the quantum system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Center for Nonlinear Phenomena and Complex Systems, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Campus Plaine, Code Postal 231, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Barra F, Davidovitch B, Levermann A, Procaccia I. Laplacian growth and diffusion limited aggregation: different universality classes. Phys Rev Lett 2001; 87:134501. [PMID: 11580593 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.87.134501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2001] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
It had been conjectured that diffusion limited aggregates and Laplacian growth patterns (with small surface tension) are in the same universality class. Using iterated conformal maps we construct a one-parameter family of fractal growth patterns with a continuously varying fractal dimension. This family can be used to bound the dimension of Laplacian growth patterns from below. The bound value is higher than the dimension of diffusion limited aggregates, showing that the two problems belong to two different universality classes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Department of Chemical Physics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
We consider the classical evolution of a particle on a graph by using a time-continuous Frobenius-Perron operator that generalizes previous propositions. In this way, the relaxation rates as well as the chaotic properties can be defined for the time-continuous classical dynamics on graphs. These properties are given as the zeros of some periodic-orbit zeta functions. We consider in detail the case of infinite periodic graphs where the particle undergoes a diffusion process. The infinite spatial extension is taken into account by Fourier transforms that decompose the observables and probability densities into sectors corresponding to different values of the wave number. The hydrodynamic modes of diffusion are studied by an eigenvalue problem of a Frobenius-Perron operator corresponding to a given sector. The diffusion coefficient is obtained from the hydrodynamic modes of diffusion and has the Green-Kubo form. Moreover, we study finite but large open graphs that converge to the infinite periodic graph when their size goes to infinity. The lifetime of the particle on the open graph is shown to correspond to the lifetime of a system that undergoes a diffusion process before it escapes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Center for Nonlinear Phenomena and Complex Systems, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Campus Plaine Code Postal 231, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Barra F, Gaspard P, Rica S. Nonlinear Schrodinger flow in a periodic potential. Phys Rev E Stat Phys Plasmas Fluids Relat Interdiscip Topics 2000; 61:5852-5863. [PMID: 11031646 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.61.5852] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/1999] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We report a study of solutions of the defocusing nonlinear Schrodinger equation in a spatially periodic potential. The ground-state solution and the steady flows of the system are studied analytically. Above a critical current, a steady state no longer exists and time-dependent solutions are generated, which are numerically simulated and described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Barra
- Center for Nonlinear Phenomena and Complex Systems, Universite Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | |
Collapse
|