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Marín-Prida J, Rodríguez-Ulloa A, Besada V, Llopiz-Arzuaga A, Batista NV, Hernández-González I, Pavón-Fuentes N, Marciano Vieira ÉL, Falcón-Cama V, Acosta EF, Martínez-Donato G, Cervantes-Llanos M, Lingfeng D, González LJ, Fernández-Massó JR, Guillén-Nieto G, Pentón-Arias E, Amaral FA, Teixeira MM, Pentón-Rol G. The effects of Phycocyanobilin on experimental arthritis involve the reduction in nociception and synovial neutrophil infiltration, inhibition of cytokine production, and modulation of the neuronal proteome. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227268. [PMID: 37936684 PMCID: PMC10627171 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The antinociceptive and pharmacological activities of C-Phycocyanin (C-PC) and Phycocyanobilin (PCB) in the context of inflammatory arthritis remain unexplored so far. In the present study, we aimed to assess the protective actions of these compounds in an experimental mice model that replicates key aspects of human rheumatoid arthritis. Methods Antigen-induced arthritis (AIA) was established by intradermal injection of methylated bovine serum albumin in C57BL/6 mice, and one hour before the antigen challenge, either C-PC (2, 4, or 8 mg/kg) or PCB (0.1 or 1 mg/kg) were administered intraperitoneally. Proteome profiling was also conducted on glutamate-exposed SH-SY5Y neuronal cells to evaluate the PCB impact on this key signaling pathway associated with nociceptive neuronal sensitization. Results and discussion C-PC and PCB notably ameliorated hypernociception, synovial neutrophil infiltration, myeloperoxidase activity, and the periarticular cytokine concentration of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17A, and IL-4 dose-dependently in AIA mice. In addition, 1 mg/kg PCB downregulated the gene expression for T-bet, RORγ, and IFN-γ in the popliteal lymph nodes, accompanied by a significant reduction in the pathological arthritic index of AIA mice. Noteworthy, neuronal proteome analysis revealed that PCB modulated biological processes such as pain, inflammation, and glutamatergic transmission, all of which are involved in arthritic pathology. Conclusions These findings demonstrate the remarkable efficacy of PCB in alleviating the nociception and inflammation in the AIA mice model and shed new light on mechanisms underlying the PCB modulation of the neuronal proteome. This research work opens a new avenue to explore the translational potential of PCB in developing a therapeutic strategy for inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Marín-Prida
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | - Arielis Rodríguez-Ulloa
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Vladimir Besada
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- China-Cuba Biotechnology Joint Innovation Center (CCBJIC), Yongzhou Zhong Gu Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Yongzhou, China
| | - Alexey Llopiz-Arzuaga
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Department of Cellular Engineering and Biocatalysis , Institute of Biotechnology, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Nathália Vieira Batista
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Nancy Pavón-Fuentes
- Immunochemical Department, International Center for Neurological Restoration (CIREN), Havana, Cuba
| | - Érica Leandro Marciano Vieira
- Translational Psychoneuroimmunology Group, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Viviana Falcón-Cama
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Departments of Physiological or Morphological Sciences, Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
| | - Emilio F. Acosta
- Department of Characterization, Center for Advanced Studies of Cuba, Havana, Cuba
| | - Gillian Martínez-Donato
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Majel Cervantes-Llanos
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Dai Lingfeng
- China-Cuba Biotechnology Joint Innovation Center (CCBJIC), Yongzhou Zhong Gu Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Yongzhou, China
| | - Luis J. González
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Gerardo Guillén-Nieto
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Departments of Physiological or Morphological Sciences, Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
| | - Eduardo Pentón-Arias
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Departments of Physiological or Morphological Sciences, Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
| | - Flávio Almeida Amaral
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mauro Martins Teixeira
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Division of Biomedical Research, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Departments of Physiological or Morphological Sciences, Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
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2
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Falcón-Cama V, Montero-González T, Acosta-Medina EF, Guillen-Nieto G, Berlanga-Acosta J, Fernández-Ortega C, Alfonso-Falcón A, Gilva-Rodríguez N, López-Nocedo L, Cremata-García D, Matos-Terrero M, Pentón-Rol G, Valdés I, Oramas-Díaz L, Suarez-Batista A, Noa-Romero E, Cruz-Sui O, Sánchez D, Borrego-Díaz AI, Valdés-Carreras JE, Vizcaino A, Suárez-Alba J, Valdés-Véliz R, Bergado G, González MA, Hernandez T, Alvarez-Arzola R, Ramírez-Suárez AC, Casillas-Casanova D, Lemos-Pérez G, Blanco-Águila OR, Díaz A, González Y, Bequet-Romero M, Marín-Prida J, Hernández-Perera JC, Del Rosario-Cruz L, Marin-Díaz AP, González-Bravo M, Borrajero I, Acosta-Rivero N. Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in postmortem lung, kidney, and liver samples, revealing cellular targets involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Arch Virol 2023; 168:96. [PMID: 36842152 PMCID: PMC9968404 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05711-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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
There is an urgent need to understand severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-host interactions involved in virus spread and pathogenesis, which might contribute to the identification of new therapeutic targets. In this study, we investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in postmortem lung, kidney, and liver samples of patients who died with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its relationship with host factors involved in virus spread and pathogenesis, using microscopy-based methods. The cases analyzed showed advanced stages of diffuse acute alveolar damage and fibrosis. We identified the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (NC) in a variety of cells, colocalizing with mitochondrial proteins, lipid droplets (LDs), and key host proteins that have been implicated in inflammation, tissue repair, and the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle (vimentin, NLRP3, fibronectin, LC3B, DDX3X, and PPARγ), pointing to vimentin and LDs as platforms involved not only in the viral life cycle but also in inflammation and pathogenesis. SARS-CoV-2 isolated from a patient´s nasal swab was grown in cell culture and used to infect hamsters. Target cells identified in human tissue samples included lung epithelial and endothelial cells; lipogenic fibroblast-like cells (FLCs) showing features of lipofibroblasts such as activated PPARγ signaling and LDs; lung FLCs expressing fibronectin and vimentin and macrophages, both with evidence of NLRP3- and IL1β-induced responses; regulatory cells expressing immune-checkpoint proteins involved in lung repair responses and contributing to inflammatory responses in the lung; CD34+ liver endothelial cells and hepatocytes expressing vimentin; renal interstitial cells; and the juxtaglomerular apparatus. This suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may directly interfere with critical lung, renal, and liver functions involved in COVID-19-pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Falcón-Cama
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba. .,Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba.
| | | | - Emilio F Acosta-Medina
- Center for Advanced Studies of Cuba, Havana, Cuba. .,Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Gerardo Guillen-Nieto
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba.,Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Jorge Berlanga-Acosta
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba.,Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Celia Fernández-Ortega
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba.,Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Nathalie Gilva-Rodríguez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Lilianne López-Nocedo
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Daina Cremata-García
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Mariuska Matos-Terrero
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba.,Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Iris Valdés
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Leonardo Oramas-Díaz
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Anamarys Suarez-Batista
- Department of Virology, Civilian Defense Scientific Research Center (CICDC), Havana, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | - Enrique Noa-Romero
- Department of Virology, Civilian Defense Scientific Research Center (CICDC), Havana, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | - Otto Cruz-Sui
- Department of Virology, Civilian Defense Scientific Research Center (CICDC), Havana, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | - José Suárez-Alba
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Rodolfo Valdés-Véliz
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Gretchen Bergado
- Direction of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Miguel A González
- Direction of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Tays Hernandez
- Direction of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Rydell Alvarez-Arzola
- Direction of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Anna C Ramírez-Suárez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Dionne Casillas-Casanova
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Gilda Lemos-Pérez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | | | - Mónica Bequet-Romero
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave 31 be/ 158 and 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, 10699, Havana, Cuba
| | - Javier Marín-Prida
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | - Alina P Marin-Díaz
- International Orthopedic Scientific Complex 'Frank Pais Garcia', Havana, Cuba
| | - Maritza González-Bravo
- Latin American School of Medicine, Calle Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, 11600, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Nelson Acosta-Rivero
- Center for Protein Studies, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Habana, Calle 25 entre J e I, #455, Plaza de la Revolucion, 10400, Havana, Cuba. .,Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre for Integrative Infectious Disease Research (CIID), Molecular Virology, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, INF 344, GO.1, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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3
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Marín-Prida J, Pavón-Fuentes N, Lagumersindez-Denis N, Camacho-Rodríguez H, García-Soca AM, Sarduy-Chávez RDLC, Vieira ÉLM, Carvalho-Tavares J, Falcón-Cama V, Fernández-Massó JR, Hernández-González I, Martínez-Donato G, Guillén-Nieto G, Pentón-Arias E, Teixeira MM, Pentón-Rol G. Anti-inflammatory mechanisms and pharmacological actions of phycocyanobilin in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: A therapeutic promise for multiple sclerosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1036200. [PMID: 36405721 PMCID: PMC9669316 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1036200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokines, demyelination and neuroaxonal degeneration in the central nervous system are pivotal elements implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its nonclinical model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Phycocyanobilin (PCB), a chromophore of the biliprotein C-Phycocyanin (C-PC) from Spirulina platensis, has antioxidant, immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory effects in this disease, and it could complement the effect of other Disease Modifying Treatments (DMT), such as Interferon-β (IFN-β). Here, our main goal was to evaluate the potential PCB benefits and its mechanisms of action to counteract the chronic EAE in mice. MOG35-55-induced EAE was implemented in C57BL/6 female mice. Clinical signs, pro-inflammatory cytokines levels by ELISA, qPCR in the brain and immunohistochemistry using precursor/mature oligodendrocytes cells antibodies in the spinal cord, were assessed. PCB enhanced the neurological condition, and waned the brain concentrations of IL-17A and IL-6, pro-inflammatory cytokines, in a dose-dependent manner. A down- or up-regulating activity of PCB at 1 mg/kg was identified in the brain on three (LINGO1, NOTCH1, and TNF-α), and five genes (MAL, CXCL12, MOG, OLIG1, and NKX2-2), respectively. Interestingly, a reduction of demyelination, active microglia/macrophages density, and axonal damage was detected along with an increase in oligodendrocyte precursor cells and mature oligodendrocytes, when assessed the spinal cords of EAE mice that took up PCB. The studies in vitro in rodent encephalitogenic T cells and in vivo in the EAE mouse model with the PCB/IFN-β combination, showed an enhanced positive effect of this combined therapy. Overall, these results demonstrate the anti-inflammatory activity and the protective properties of PCB on the myelin and support its use with IFN-β as an improved DMT combination for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Marín-Prida
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | - Nancy Pavón-Fuentes
- Immunochemical Department, International Center for Neurological Restoration (CIREN), Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | - Ana Margarita García-Soca
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Érica Leandro Marciano Vieira
- Translational Psychoneuroimmunology Group, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Juliana Carvalho-Tavares
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Viviana Falcón-Cama
- Biomedical Research Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | - Gillian Martínez-Donato
- Biomedical Research Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Gerardo Guillén-Nieto
- Biomedical Research Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
| | - Eduardo Pentón-Arias
- Biomedical Research Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
| | - Mauro Martins Teixeira
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Biomedical Research Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba
- Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Havana, Cuba
- *Correspondence: Giselle Pentón-Rol,
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Marín-Prida J, Liberato JL, Llópiz-Arzuaga A, Stringhetta-Padovani K, Pavón-Fuentes N, Leopoldino AM, Cruz OG, González IH, Pérez ML, Espuny AC, Santos WFDSD, Uyemura SA, Pardo-Andreu GL, Pentón-Rol G. Novel Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms Involved in the Neuroprotective Effects of C-Phycocyanin Against Brain Ischemia in Rats. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:1187-1197. [PMID: 35524676 DOI: 10.2174/1381612828666220506145542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ischemic stroke produces a large health impact worldwide, with scarce therapeutic options. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to reveal the role of NADPH oxidase and neuroinflammatory genes on the cerebral anti-ischemic effects of C-Phycocyanin (C-PC), the chief biliprotein of Spirulina platensis. METHODS Rats with either focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) or acute brain hypoperfusion, received C-PC at different doses, or a vehicle, for up to 6 h post-stroke. Neurological, behavioral and histochemical parameters were assessed in I/R rats at 24 h. Cerebral gene expression and hippocampal neuron viability were evaluated in hypoperfused rats at acute (24 h) or chronic phases (30 days), respectively. A molecular docking analysis between NOX2 and C-PC-derived Phycocyanobilin (PCB) was also performed. RESULTS C-PC, obtained with a purity of 4.342, significantly reduced the infarct volume and neurologic deficit in a dose-dependent manner, and improved the exploratory activity of the I/R rats. This biliprotein inhibited NOX2 expression, a crucial NAPDH oxidase isoform in the brain, and the superoxide increase produced by the ischemic event. Moreover, C-PC-derived PCB showed a high binding affinity in silico with NOX2. C-PC downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory genes (IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-17A, CD74, CCL12) and upregulated immune suppressive genes (Foxp3, IL-4, TGF-β) in hypoperfused brain areas. This compound also decreased chronic neuronal death in the hippocampus of hypoperfused rats. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the inhibition of cerebral NADPH oxidase and the improvement of neuroinflammation are key mechanisms mediating the neuroprotective actions of C-PC against brain ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Marín-Prida
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana
| | - José Luiz Liberato
- Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Literature of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Karina Stringhetta-Padovani
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Andréia Machado Leopoldino
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Mariela León Pérez
- Isotopes Center, Ave. Monumental Km 3.5, San José de Las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba
| | - Antoni Camins Espuny
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Sergio Akira Uyemura
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gilberto L Pardo-Andreu
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | - Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana, Cuba.,Latin American School of Medicine, Playa, Havana, Cuba
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5
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Cama VF, Marín-Prida J, Acosta-Rivero N, Acosta EF, Díaz LO, Casadesús AV, Fernández-Marrero B, Gilva-Rodríguez N, Cremata-García D, Cervantes-Llanos M, Piniella-Matamoros B, Sánchez D, Del Rosario-Cruz L, Borrajero I, Díaz A, González Y, Pentón-Arias E, Montero-González T, Guillen-Nieto G, Pentón-Rol G. The microglial NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in human SARS-CoV-2 cerebral pathogenicity: A report of three post-mortem cases. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 361:577728. [PMID: 34619427 PMCID: PMC8480138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [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: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We herein report, by using confocal immunofluorescence, the colocalization of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid within neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and microglia in three deceased COVID-19 cases, of between 78 and 85 years of age at death. The viral nucleocapsid was detected together with its ACE2 cell entry receptor, as well as the NLRP3 inflammasome in cerebral cortical tissues. It is noteworthy that NLRP3 was colocalized with CD68 + macrophages in the brain and lung of the deceased, suggesting the critical role of this type of inflammasome in SARS-CoV-2 lesions of the nervous system/lungs and supporting its potential role as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Falcón Cama
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba; Latin American School of Medicine, Carretera Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, Havana, 11600, Cuba..
| | - Javier Marín-Prida
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Ave. 23 e/214 y 222, La Lisa, PO Box: 430, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Nelson Acosta-Rivero
- Center of Protein Research, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Emilio F Acosta
- Center for Advanced Studies of Cuba, Havana, Cuba; Latin American School of Medicine, Carretera Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, Havana, 11600, Cuba..
| | - Leonardo Oramas Díaz
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Ana V Casadesús
- Direction of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba.
| | | | - Nathalie Gilva-Rodríguez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Daina Cremata-García
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Majel Cervantes-Llanos
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Beatriz Piniella-Matamoros
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba.
| | | | - Leticia Del Rosario-Cruz
- Hospital Militar Central "Dr. Luis Díaz Soto", Avenida Monumental km 2, Habana delEste, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Israel Borrajero
- Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico "Hermanos Ameijeiras", Havana, Cuba.
| | | | | | - Eduardo Pentón-Arias
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba; Latin American School of Medicine, Carretera Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, Havana, 11600, Cuba..
| | - Teresita Montero-González
- Hospital Militar Central "Dr. Luis Díaz Soto", Avenida Monumental km 2, Habana delEste, Havana, Cuba.
| | - Gerardo Guillen-Nieto
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba; Latin American School of Medicine, Carretera Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, Havana, 11600, Cuba..
| | - Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, PO Box 6162, Havana, Cuba; Latin American School of Medicine, Carretera Panamericana Km 3 1/2, Playa, Havana, 11600, Cuba..
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Pentón-Rol G, Marín-Prida J, McCarty MF. C-Phycocyanin-derived Phycocyanobilin as a Potential Nutraceutical Approach for Major Neurodegenerative Disorders and COVID-19-induced Damage to the Nervous System. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:2250-2275. [PMID: 33829974 PMCID: PMC9185767 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210408123807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [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: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The edible cyanobacterium Spirulina platensis and its chief biliprotein C-Phycocyanin have shown protective activity in animal models of diverse human health diseases, often reflecting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The beneficial effects of C-Phycocyanin seem likely to be primarily attributable to its covalently attached chromophore Phycocyanobilin (PCB). Within cells, biliverdin is generated from free heme and it is subsequently reduced to bilirubin. Although bilirubin can function as an oxidant scavenger, its potent antioxidant activity reflects its ability to inactivate some isoforms of NADPH oxidase. Free bilirubin can also function as an agonist for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR); this may explain its ability to promote protective Treg activity in cellular and rodent models of inflammatory disease. AhR agonists also promote transcription of the gene coding for Nrf-2, and hence can up-regulate phase 2 induction of antioxidant enzymes such as HO-1. Hence, it is proposed that C-Phycocyanin/PCB chiefly exert their protective effects via inhibition of NADPH oxidase activity, as well as by AhR agonism that both induces Treg activity and up-regulates phase 2 induction. This simple model may explain their potent antioxidant/anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, PCB might mimic biliverdin in activating anti-inflammatory signaling mediated by biliverdin reductase. This essay reviews recent research in which C-Phycocyanin and/or PCB, administered orally, parenterally, or intranasally, have achieved marked protective effects in rodent and cell culture models of Ischemic Stroke and Multiple Sclerosis, and suggests that these agents may likewise be protective for Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and in COVID-19 and its neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Playa. PO Box: 6162, Havana. Cuba
| | - Javier Marín-Prida
- Centre for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Ave. 23 e/ 214 y 222, La Lisa. PO Box: 430, Havana. Cuba
| | - Mark F McCarty
- Catalytic Longevity Foundation, 811 B Nahant Ct. San Diego, CA 92019. United States
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Garcia-Pliego E, Franco-Colin M, Rojas-Franco P, Blas-Valdivia V, Serrano-Contreras JI, Pentón-Rol G, Cano-Europa E. Phycocyanobilin is the molecule responsible for the nephroprotective action of phycocyanin in acute kidney injury caused by mercury. Food Funct 2021; 12:2985-2994. [PMID: 33704296 DOI: 10.1039/d0fo03294h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
C-Phycocyanin (CPC) exerts therapeutic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions. It prevents oxidative stress and acute kidney damage caused by HgCl2. However, the exact mechanism of the pharmacological action of C-phycocyanin is as yet unclear. Some proposals express that CPC metabolism releases the active compound phycocyanobilin (PCB) that is able to induce CPC's therapeutical effects as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and nephroprotective. This study is aimed to demonstrate that PCB is the molecule responsible for C-phycocyanin's nephroprotective action in the acute kidney injury model caused by HgCl2. PCB was purified from C-phycocyanin and characterized by spectroscopy and mass spectrometry methods. Thirty-six male mice were administrated with 0.75, 1.5, or 3 mg per kg per d of PCB 30 min before the 5 mg kg-1 HgCl2 administration. PCB was administered during the following five days, after which the mice were euthanized. Kidneys were dissected to determine oxidative stress and redox environment markers, first-line antioxidant enzymes, effector caspase activities, and kidney damage markers.The quality of purified PCB was evaluated by spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. All PCB doses prevented alterations in oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes, and caspase 9 activities. However, only the dose of 3 mg per kg per d PCB avoided the redox environment disturbance produced by mercury. All doses of PCB partially prevented the down-expression of nephrin and podocin with a consequent reduction in the damage score in a dose-effect manner. In conclusion, it was proven that phycocyanobilin is the molecule responsible for C-phycocyanin's nephroprotective action on acute kidney injury caused by mercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick Garcia-Pliego
- Laboratorio de Metabolismo I, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Pavón-Fuentes N, Marín-Prida J, Llópiz-Arzuaga A, Falcón-Cama V, Campos-Mojena R, Cervantes-Llanos M, Piniella-Matamoros B, Pentón-Arias E, Pentón-Rol G. Phycocyanobilin reduces brain injury after endothelin-1- induced focal cerebral ischaemia. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2019; 47:383-392. [PMID: 31732975 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological therapies for interrupting biochemical events of the ischaemic cascade and protecting against stroke in humans are as yet unavailable. Up to now, the neuroprotective activity in cerebral ischaemia of phycocyanobilin (PCB), a tetrapyrrolic natural antioxidant, has not been fully examined. Here, we evaluated if PCB protects PC12 neuronal cells against oxygen and glucose deprivation plus reperfusion, and its protective effects in a rat model of endothelin-1-induced focal brain ischaemia. PCB was purified from the cyanobacteria Spirulina platensis and characterized by spectrophotometric, liquid and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques. In Wistar rats, PCB at 50, 100 and 200 μg/kg or phosphate-buffered saline (vehicle) was administered intraperitoneally at equal subdoses in a therapeutic schedule (30 minutes, 1, 3 and 6 hours after the surgery). Brain expression of myelin basic protein (MBP) and the enzyme CNPase was determined by immunoelectron microscopy. PCB was obtained with high purity (>95%) and the absence of solvent contaminants and was able to ameliorate PC12 cell ischaemic injury. PCB treatment significantly decreased brain infarct volume, limited the exploratory behaviour impairment and preserved viable cortical neurons in ischaemic rats in a dose-dependent manner, compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, PCB at high doses restored the MBP and CNPase expression levels in ischaemic rats. An improved PCB purification method from its natural source is reported, obtaining PCB that is suitable for pharmacological trials showing neuroprotective effects against experimental ischaemic stroke. Therefore, PCB could be a therapeutic pharmacological alternative for ischaemic stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier Marín-Prida
- Centre for Research and Biological Evaluations (CEIEB), Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
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Pentón-Rol G, Marín-Prida J, Falcón-Cama V. C-Phycocyanin and Phycocyanobilin as Remyelination Therapies for Enhancing Recovery in Multiple Sclerosis and Ischemic Stroke: A Preclinical Perspective. Behav Sci (Basel) 2018; 8:bs8010015. [PMID: 29346320 PMCID: PMC5791033 DOI: 10.3390/bs8010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin loss has a crucial impact on behavior disabilities associated to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Ischemic Stroke (IS). Although several MS therapies are approved, none of them promote remyelination in patients, limiting their ability for chronic recovery. With no available therapeutic options, enhanced demyelination in stroke survivors is correlated with a poorer behavioral recovery. Here, we show the experimental findings of our group and others supporting the remyelinating effects of C-Phycocyanin (C-PC), the main biliprotein of Spirulina platensis and its linked tetrapyrrole Phycocyanobilin (PCB), in models of these illnesses. C-PC promoted white matter regeneration in rats and mice affected by experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Electron microscopy analysis in cerebral cortex from ischemic rats revealed a potent remyelinating action of PCB treatment after stroke. Among others biological processes, we discussed the role of regulatory T cell induction, the control of oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators, gene expression modulation and COX-2 inhibition as potential mechanisms involved in the C-PC and PCB effects on the recruitment, differentiation and maturation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells in demyelinated lesions. The assembled evidence supports the implementation of clinical trials to demonstrate the recovery effects of C-PC and PCB in these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6162, Playa, Havana 10600, Cuba.
| | - Javier Marín-Prida
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations (CEIEB), Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Ave. 23 e/214 y 222, La Lisa, PO Box 430, Havana 13600, Cuba.
| | - Viviana Falcón-Cama
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6162, Playa, Havana 10600, Cuba.
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Pentón-Rol G, Cervantes-Llanos M. Report on the Symposium "Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Neurodegeneration". Behav Sci (Basel) 2018; 8:bs8010016. [PMID: 29346273 PMCID: PMC5791034 DOI: 10.3390/bs8010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is currently a major concern in public health because of the lack of neuroprotective and neuroregenerative drugs. The symposium on Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Neurodegeneration held in Varadero, Cuba, updated the participants on the basic mechanisms of neurodegeneration, on the different approaches for drug discovery, and on early research results on therapeutic approaches for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s disease and in silico research were covered by many of the presentations in the symposium, under the umbrella of the “State of the Art of Non-clinical Models for Neurodegenerative Diseases” International Congress, held from 20 to 24 June 2017. This paper summarizes the highlights of the symposium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, P.O. Box 6162, Havana 10600, Cuba.
| | - Majel Cervantes-Llanos
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Ave. 31 e/158 y 190, Cubanacán, Playa, P.O. Box 6162, Havana 10600, Cuba.
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Marín-Prida J, Pavón-Fuentes N, Llópiz-Arzuaga A, Fernández-Massó JR, Delgado-Roche L, Mendoza-Marí Y, Santana SP, Cruz-Ramírez A, Valenzuela-Silva C, Nazábal-Gálvez M, Cintado-Benítez A, Pardo-Andreu GL, Polentarutti N, Riva F, Pentón-Arias E, Pentón-Rol G. Phycocyanobilin promotes PC12 cell survival and modulates immune and inflammatory genes and oxidative stress markers in acute cerebral hypoperfusion in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2013; 272:49-60. [PMID: 23732081 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Since the inflammatory response and oxidative stress are involved in the stroke cascade, we evaluated here the effects of Phycocyanobilin (PCB, the C-Phycocyanin linked tetrapyrrole) on PC12 cell survival, the gene expression and the oxidative status of hypoperfused rat brain. After the permanent bilateral common carotid arteries occlusion (BCCAo), the animals were treated with saline or PCB, taking samples 24h post-surgery. Global gene expression was analyzed with GeneChip Rat Gene ST 1.1 from Affymetrix; the expression of particular genes was assessed by the Fast SYBR Green RT-PCR Master Mix and Bioplex methods; and redox markers (MDA, PP, CAT, SOD) were evaluated spectrophotometrically. The PCB treatment prevented the H2O2 and glutamate induced PC12 cell injury assessed by the MTT assay, and modulated 190 genes (93 up- and 97 down-regulated) associated to several immunological and inflammatory processes in BCCAo rats. Furthermore, PCB positively modulated 19 genes mostly related to a detrimental pro-inflammatory environment and counteracted the oxidative imbalance in the treated BCCAo animals. Our results support the view of an effective influence of PCB on major inflammatory mediators in acute cerebral hypoperfusion. These results suggest that PCB has a potential to be a treatment for ischemic stroke for which further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Marín-Prida
- Centre for Research and Biological Evaluations (CEIEB), Institute of Pharmacy and Food, University of Havana, Ave. 23 e/ 214 y 222, La Lisa, PO Box: 430, Havana, Cuba
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Pentón-Rol G, Marín-Prida J, Pardo-Andreu G, Martínez-Sánchez G, Acosta-Medina EF, Valdivia-Acosta A, Lagumersindez-Denis N, Rodríguez-Jiménez E, Llópiz-Arzuaga A, López-Saura PA, Guillén-Nieto G, Pentón-Arias E. C-Phycocyanin is neuroprotective against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in gerbils. Brain Res Bull 2011; 86:42-52. [PMID: 21669260 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2011.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [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: 05/16/2011] [Accepted: 05/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Although the huge economic and social impact and the predicted incidence increase, neuroprotection for ischemic stroke remains as a therapeutically empty niche. In the present study, we investigated the rationale of the C-Phycocyanin (C-PC) treatment on global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in gerbils. We demonstrated that C-PC given either prophylactically or therapeutically was able to significantly reduce the infarct volume as assessed by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and the neurological deficit score 24h post-stroke. In addition, C-PC exhibited a protective effect against hippocampus neuronal cell death, and significantly improved the functional outcome (locomotor behavior) and gerbil survival after 7 days of reperfusion. Malondialdehyde (MDA), peroxidation potential (PP) and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) were assayed in serum and brain homogenates to evaluate the redox status 24h post-stroke. The treatment with C-PC prevented the lipid peroxidation and the increase of FRAP in both tissue compartments. These results suggest that the protective effects of C-PC are most likely due to its antioxidant activity, although its anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulatory properties reported elsewhere could also contribute to neuroprotection. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the neuroprotective effect of C-PC in an experimental model of global cerebral I/R damage, and strongly indicates that C-PC may represent a potential preventive and acute disease modifying pharmacological agent for stroke therapy.
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Pentón-Rol G, Cervantes-Llanos M, Martínez-Sánchez G, Cabrera-Gómez JA, Valenzuela-Silva CM, Ramírez-Nuñez O, Casanova-Orta M, Robinson-Agramonte MA, Lopategui-Cabezas I, López-Saura PA. TNF-alpha and IL-10 downregulation and marked oxidative stress in Neuromyelitis Optica. J Inflamm (Lond) 2009; 6:18. [PMID: 19490629 PMCID: PMC2694781 DOI: 10.1186/1476-9255-6-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2008] [Accepted: 06/02/2009] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Neuromyelitis optica is a central nervous system demyelinating and inflammatory syndrome. The objective of this study is to identify cytokines related to the cellular immune response as well as blood brain barrier integrity and oxidative stress. Methods We performed a molecular characterization of cellular immune response and oxidative stress in serum from relapsing-NMO (R-NMO) patients and established the correlations between the clinical measurements and molecular parameters using the Bayesian approach. Serum samples from 11 patients with R-NMO diagnosed according to Wingerchuk criteria and matched in terms of age, gender and ethnicity with the healthy controls were analyzed. The levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and oxidative stress markers: malondialdehyde, advanced oxidation protein products, peroxidation potential, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and total hydroperoxides were measured. Results We found almost undetectable levels of TNF-α, a decreased production of IL-10 and a significant up-regulation of every oxidative stress biomarker studied. The insufficient production of TNF-α and IL-10 in R-NMO patients, which are two important players of T cell mediated immunoregulation, suggest an effector – regulator imbalance. The overproduction of oxygen reactive species as a consequence of the chronic inflammatory milieu is reflected on the excess of oxidative damage mediators detected. Furthermore, Multidimensional Scaling and a Bayesian linear regression model revealed a significant linear dependence between Expanded Disability Status Scale Kurtzke and TIMP-1; pointing to a possible predictive or prognostic value of this clinical-molecular relationship. Conclusion These results suggest that there is a breakdown in immunoregulatory mechanisms and noteworthy pro-oxidant environment contributing to NMO pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gregorio Martínez-Sánchez
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | - Omar Ramírez-Nuñez
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | - Mayté Casanova-Orta
- Center for Research and Biological Evaluations, Institute of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Havana, Havana, Cuba
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Pentón-Rol G, Cervantes-Llanos M, Cabrera-Gómez JA, Alonso-Ramírez R, Valenzuela-Silva C, Rodríguez-Lara R, Montero-Casimiro E, Bello-Rivero I, López-Saura P. Treatment with type I interferons induces a regulatory T cell subset in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from multiple sclerosis patients. Int Immunopharmacol 2008; 8:881-6. [PMID: 18442793 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2008.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 09/14/2007] [Revised: 02/07/2008] [Accepted: 02/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Type I Interferon (IFN-alpha/beta) therapy has altered the natural course of multiple sclerosis. In this paper we evaluate the possible molecular mechanisms involved in the in vitro effects of IFN-alpha/beta on peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with clinically definite Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. The total RNA from IFN-alpha, IFN-beta treated cells and untreated cells was extracted and amplified for CD86, CD28, CTLA-4, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, CCL2, CCR5, IL-13, MMP-9, TIMP-1, CD25, TGF-beta, IL-10 and the transcriptional factor Foxp3 by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction and the CD4+CD25high subset was evaluated using flow cytometry. In general, there were no significant differences concerning the modulation of the genes studied in the response to IFN-alpha and IFN-beta treatments, which suggest a similar mechanism of action for both interferons. However, we found a significant increment in IFN-gamma expression after IFN-alpha but not after IFN-beta treatments. The in vitro treatment of mononuclear cells from multiple sclerosis patients with both interferons significantly increased the CD25 mRNA. Furthermore, we observed a CD25/Foxp3 correlation and an increment of the CD4+CD25high subset, indicating that the induction of regulatory T cells could be a crucial mechanism involved in the type I interferon effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Pentón-Rol
- Clinical Trials Division, Center for Biological Research, PO. Box: 6332, Havana 10 600, Cuba.
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Bello-Rivero I, Torrez-Ruiz Y, Blanco-Garcés E, Pentón-Rol G, Fernández-Batista O, Javier-González L, Gerónimo-Perez H, López-Saura P. Construction, purification, and characterization of a chimeric TH1 antagonist. BMC Biotechnol 2006; 6:25. [PMID: 16716222 PMCID: PMC1481661 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-6-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2005] [Accepted: 05/22/2006] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background TH1 immune response antagonism is a desirable approach to mitigate some autoimmune and inflammatory reactions during the course of several diseases where IL-2 and IFN-γ are two central players. Therefore, the neutralization of both cytokines could provide beneficial effects in patients suffering from autoimmune or inflammatory illnesses. Results A chimeric antagonist that can antagonize the action of TH1 immunity mediators, IFN-γ and IL-2, was designed, engineered, expressed in E. coli, purified and evaluated for its in vitro biological activities. The TH1 antagonist molecule consists of the extracellular region for the human IFNγ receptor chain 1 fused by a four-aminoacid linker peptide to human 60 N-terminal aminoacid residues of IL-2. The corresponding gene fragments were isolated by RT-PCR and cloned in the pTPV-1 vector. E. coli (W3110 strain) was transformed with this vector. The chimeric protein was expressed at high level as inclusion bodies. The protein was partially purified by pelleting and washing. It was then solubilized with strong denaturant and finally refolded by gel filtration. In vitro biological activity of chimera was demonstrated by inhibition of IFN-γ-dependent HLA-DR expression in Colo 205 cells, inhibition of IFN-γ antiproliferative effect on HEp-2 cells, and by a bidirectional effect in assays for IL-2 T-cell dependent proliferation: agonism in the absence versus inhibition in the presence of IL-2. Conclusion TH1 antagonist is a chimeric protein that inhibits the in vitro biological activities of human IFN-γ, and is a partial agonist/antagonist of human IL-2. With these attributes, the chimera has the potential to offer a new opportunity for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iraldo Bello-Rivero
- Clinical Trial Department, Center for Biological Research, Calle 134 entre 23 y 25, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6332, Havana, Cuba
- Department of Biologicals, Control Quality Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yeny Torrez-Ruiz
- Clinical Trial Department, Center for Biological Research, Calle 134 entre 23 y 25, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6332, Havana, Cuba
- Department of Biologicals, Control Quality Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Elizabeth Blanco-Garcés
- Clinical Trial Department, Center for Biological Research, Calle 134 entre 23 y 25, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6332, Havana, Cuba
- Department of Biologicals, Control Quality Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Giselle Pentón-Rol
- Clinical Trial Department, Center for Biological Research, Calle 134 entre 23 y 25, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6332, Havana, Cuba
- Department of Biologicals, Control Quality Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Osmani Fernández-Batista
- Clinical Trial Department, Center for Biological Research, Calle 134 entre 23 y 25, Cubanacan, P.O. Box 6332, Havana, Cuba
- Department of Biologicals, Control Quality Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Luís Javier-González
- Physicochemical Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Haydee Gerónimo-Perez
- Physicochemical Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
| | - Pedro López-Saura
- Physicochemical Division, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Calle 190 entre 31 y 33. Postal Code 10600, Havana, Cuba
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