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Venturi C, Guadagno A, Varesano S, Ricucci V, Nigro N, Di Biagio A, Bassetti M, Nozza P, Drago F, Parodi A, Ciccarese G. Histopathologic and transmission electron microscopic findings in monkeypox cutaneous lesions. Infez Med 2024; 32:76-82. [PMID: 38456031 PMCID: PMC10917568 DOI: 10.53854/liim-3201-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Background a few pathologic and ultrastructural findings of monkeypox skin lesions are available in the literature. To integrate such evidence, we aimed to describe the pathologic features of monkeypox skin lesions and to show monkeypox virions by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Methods we studied the cutaneous biopsies of three patients affected by monkeypox during the 2022 monkeypox outbreak. Skin biopsies have been collected only from body sites with a recent laboratory-confirmed mpox virus infection, defined by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive result in specimens taken through skin swabs. Results in all the samples the epidermis showed keratinocytes ballooning degeneration; perivascular/periadnexal infiltrates composed of neutrophils and lymphocytes were observed in the deep dermis. Immunohistochemistry showed that the infiltrate was mostly composed of CD3+ T-cells. TEM revealed monkeypox virus-like particles in various stages of morphogenesis in the dermis and epidermis; virions were interspersed among keratinocytes and within their cytoplasm. At the intracellular level, virions showed a biconcaveshaped central core, surrounded by lateral bodies and an external membrane; they also appeared as rectangular, brick-shaped, or oval particles with eccentric nucleoids. The histologic features of our skin samples confirmed the few other studies on this topic, except for the eosinophilic inclusions of the cytoplasm of keratinocytes (Guarnieri's bodies). Conclusion the role of molecular biology is crucial for monkeypox diagnosis but when it is not disposable and/or in doubtful cases, skin biopsy and TEM may be helpful to establish the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Venturi
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonio Guadagno
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Serena Varesano
- Hygiene Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Nigro
- Hygiene Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Biagio
- Department of Specialist Medicine, Infectious Disease Clinic, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Matteo Bassetti
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paolo Nozza
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Drago
- Section of Dermatology, DISSAL, University of Genoa, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Aurora Parodi
- Section of Dermatology, DISSAL, University of Genoa, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Ciccarese
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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Khalid Z, Coco S, Ullah N, Pulliero A, Cortese K, Varesano S, Orsi A, Izzotti A. Anticancer Activity of Measles-Mumps-Rubella MMR Vaccine Viruses against Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4304. [PMID: 37686579 PMCID: PMC10486717 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have been utilized since 1990s for targeted cancer treatment. Our study examined the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine's cancer-killing potency against Glioblastoma (GBM), a therapy-resistant, aggressive cancer type. METHODOLOGY We used GBM cell lines, primary GBM cells, and normal mice microglial cells, to assess the MMR vaccine's efficacy through cell viability, cell cycle analysis, intracellular viral load via RT-PCR, and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). RESULTS After 72 h of MMR treatment, GBM cell lines and primary GBM cells exhibited significant viability reduction compared to untreated cells. Conversely, normal microglial cells showed only minor changes in viability and morphology. Intracellular viral load tests indicated GBM cells' increased sensitivity to MMR viruses compared to normal cells. The cell cycle study also revealed measles and mumps viruses' crucial role in cytopathic effects, with the rubella virus causing cell cycle arrest. CONCLUSION Herein the reported results demonstrate the anti-cancer activity of the MMR vaccine against GBM cells. Accordingly, the MMR vaccine warrants further study as a potential new tool for GBM therapy and relapse prevention. Therapeutic potential of the MMR vaccine has been found to be promising in earlier studies as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zumama Khalid
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (Z.K.); (N.U.); (A.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Simona Coco
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Nadir Ullah
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (Z.K.); (N.U.); (A.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Alessandra Pulliero
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (Z.K.); (N.U.); (A.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Katia Cortese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Serena Varesano
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Andrea Orsi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (Z.K.); (N.U.); (A.P.); (A.O.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.C.); (S.V.)
| | - Alberto Izzotti
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.C.); (S.V.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
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Varesano S, Pulliero A, Martorana E, Pizzino G, Raciti G, Coco S, Vellone VG, Izzotti A. Screening of Precancerous Lesions in Women with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection by Molecular Typing and MicroRNA Analysis. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13030531. [PMID: 36983713 PMCID: PMC10058065 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13030531] [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] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is causatively associated with cervical cancer, the fourth most common malignant disease of women worldwide: (1) The aim of the proposed study is to implement routine diagnostics of HPV precancerous cervical lesions by introducing new molecular diagnostic tools. (2) Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study with a total of twenty-two formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) cervical samples of various sample type (nine biopsy and thirteen conization) each patient had a previous abnormal results of pap test or HPV DNA test. Genotyping, viral load and co-infections were determined. For each patient, the individual expression of 2549 microRNAs were evaluated by microarray and qPCR. (3) Results: Our data demonstrates that the microRNAs were commonly expressed in tissues biopsies. miR 4485-5p, miR4485-3p and miR-4497 were highly down-regulated in tissue biopsies with HPV precancerous cervical lesions. (4) Conclusions: the introduction of a microRNA analysis panel can improve early diagnosis, understand the nature of the lesion and, consequently, improve the clinical management of patients with HPV precancerous cervical lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Pulliero
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0103538509
| | | | | | - Gabriele Raciti
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, 95029 Viagrande, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Università degli Studi di Messina (ME), 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Coco
- Lung Cancer Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Valerio Gaetano Vellone
- Department of Integrated Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences (DISC), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Fetal and Perinatal Pathology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Alberto Izzotti
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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Domnich A, Bruzzone B, Trombetta CS, De Pace V, Ricucci V, Varesano S, Garzillo G, Ogliastro M, Orsi A, Icardi G. Rapid differential diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B and respiratory syncytial viruses: Validation of a novel RT-PCR assay. J Clin Virol 2023; 161:105402. [PMID: 36805601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2023.105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza and respiratory syncytial (RSV) viruses are expected to co-circulate with SARS-CoV-2 in the upcoming seasons and clinical differential diagnosis between them is difficult. Laboratory-based RT-PCR is a gold standard diagnostic method for influenza, RSV and SARS-CoV-2. The objective of this study was to estimate the diagnostic performance of a novel point-of-care RT-PCR assay STANDARD M10 Flu/RSV/SARS-CoV-2 (SD Biosensor) in a large number of clinical specimens with diversified (co)-infection patterns and viral loads. METHODS This was a retrospective study, in which all samples were tested in both STANDARD M10 Flu/RSV/SARS-CoV-2 index and Allplex SARS-CoV-2/Respiratory Panel 1 (Seegene) reference kits. Samples with discordant results were further processed in a third resolver test (Resp-4-Plex, Abbott). RESULTS A total of 1,019 naso-/oropharyngeal samples (50.3% positive for at least one virus) were processed in both STANDARD M10 Flu/RSV/SARS-CoV-2 and Allplex assays and the overall between-assay agreement was as high as 94.6%. Positive percent agreement of the STANDARD M10 Flu/RSV/SARS-CoV-2 was 100%, 96.6%, 97.3% and 99.4% for influenza A, B, RSV and SARS-CoV-2, respectively. The corresponding negative percent agreement was 99.7%. 100%, 100% and 98.4%, respectively. The expected positive and negative predictive values for all viruses were constantly above 96% in a reasonable range of disease prevalence. CONCLUSIONS STANDARD M10 Flu/RSV/SARS-CoV-2 is a reliable RT-PCR assay able to detect influenza A, influenza B, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 in one hour or less, fostering a rapid differential diagnosis of common respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Domnich
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Bianca Bruzzone
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Vanessa De Pace
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy
| | - Valentina Ricucci
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy
| | - Serena Varesano
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giada Garzillo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Orsi
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy; Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Interuniversity Research Center on Influenza and Other Transmissible Infections (CIRI-IT), Genoa, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Icardi
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital - IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Genoa, Italy; Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Interuniversity Research Center on Influenza and Other Transmissible Infections (CIRI-IT), Genoa, Italy
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Domnich A, De Pace V, Pennati BM, Caligiuri P, Varesano S, Bruzzone B, Orsi A. Evaluation of extraction-free RT-qPCR methods for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. Arch Virol 2021; 166:2825-2828. [PMID: 34302551 PMCID: PMC8302966 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Extraction-based real-time reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is currently the "gold standard" in SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. However, some extraction-free RT-qPCR techniques have recently been developed. In this study, we compared the sensitivity of traditional extraction-based, heated extraction-free, and unheated extraction-free RT-qPCR methods for SARS-CoV-2 detection in nasopharyngeal swabs from symptomatic individuals. The unheated extraction-free method showed perfect agreement with the standard extraction-based RT-qPCR. By contrast, the heat-treated technique was associated with an 8.2% false negativity rate. Unheated extraction-free RT-qPCR for the molecular diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 is a valuable alternative to the traditional extraction-based methods and may accelerate turnaround times by about two hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Domnich
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vanessa De Pace
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Beatrice M Pennati
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Patrizia Caligiuri
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Serena Varesano
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Bianca Bruzzone
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Orsi
- Hygiene Unit, San Martino Policlinico Hospital, IRCCS for Oncology and Neurosciences, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132, Genoa, Italy
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Pece R, Tavella S, Costa D, Varesano S, Camodeca C, Cuffaro D, Nuti E, Rossello A, Alfano M, D'Arrigo C, Galante D, Ravetti JL, Gobbi M, Tosetti F, Poggi A, Zocchi MR. Inhibitors of A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinases-10 reduce Hodgkin lymphoma cell growth in 3D microenvironments and enhance brentuximab-vedotin effect. Haematologica 2021; 107:909-920. [PMID: 34109776 PMCID: PMC8968898 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2021.278469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Shedding of ADAM10 substrates, like TNFa or CD30, can affect both anti-tumor immune response and antibody-drug-conjugate (ADC)-based immunotherapy. We have published two new ADAM10 inhibitors, LT4 and MN8 able to prevent such shedding in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Since tumor tissue architecture deeply influences the outcome of anti-cancer treatments, we set up a new threedimensional (3D) culture systems to verify whether ADAM10 inhibitors can contribute to, or enhance, the anti-lymphoma effects of the ADC brentuximab-vedotin (BtxVed). In order to recapitulate some aspects of lymphoma structure and architecture, we assembled two 3D culture models: mixed spheroids made of HL lymph node (LN) mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and Reed Sternberg/Hodgkin lymphoma cells (HL cells) or collagen scaffolds repopulated with LN-MSC and HL cells. In these 3D systems we found that: i) the ADAM10 inhibitors LT4 and MN8 reduce ATP content or glucose consumption, related to cell proliferation, increasing lactate dehydrogenase release as a cell damage hallmark; ii) these events are paralleled by mixed spheroids size reduction and inhibition of CD30 and TNFa shedding; iii) the effects observed can be reproduced in repopulated HL LN-derived matrix or collagen scaffolds; iv) ADAM10 inhibitors enhance the anti-lymphoma effect of the anti-CD30 ADC BtxVed both in conventional cultures and in repopulated scaffolds. Thus, we provide evidence for a direct and combined antilymphoma effect of ADAM10 inhibitors with BtxVed, leading to the improvement of ADC effects; this is documented in 3D models recapitulating features of the LN microenvironment, that can be proposed as a reliable tool for anti-lymphoma drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Pece
- Cellular Oncology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino and Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Sara Tavella
- Cellular Oncology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino and Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa
| | - Delfina Costa
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino
| | - Serena Varesano
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino
| | | | | | - Elisa Nuti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa
| | | | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele
| | | | | | | | - Marco Gobbi
- Clinical Oncohematology, University of Genoa
| | - Francesca Tosetti
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino
| | - Alessandro Poggi
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino
| | - Maria Raffaella Zocchi
- Division of Immunology, Transplants and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute.
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Dini G, Montecucco A, Rahmani A, Barletta C, Pellegrini L, Debarbieri N, Orsi A, Caligiuri P, Varesano S, Manca A, Vargiu MP, Di Carlo P, Massa E, Icardi G, Durando P. Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 during the early phase of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a cross-sectional study among medical school physicians and residents employed in a regional reference teaching hospital in Northern Italy. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2021; 34:189-201. [PMID: 33843941 DOI: 10.13075/ijomeh.1896.01759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical presentation and burden of SARS-CoV-2 infections among medical school physicians and residents, mainly young medical doctors. The awareness of COVID‑19 clinical manifestations can improve the early detection of mild cases, possibly reducing further transmission to colleagues and patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was carried out in March-May 2020, involving medical school physicians in a teaching hospital in northern Italy, with a working population of 881 medical doctors. Data collection was performed using a structured form investigating clinical and epidemiological information. RESULTS One hundred sixty-two medical doctors contacted the Occupational Health Service reporting acute respiratory symptoms or close contact exposure to a confirmed COVID‑19 case. Among the confirmed COVID‑19 cases, most were male doctors during residency, and 85% presented a mild clinical picture. Fever (70.3%) and cough (51.4%) represented the most prevalent symptoms of COVID‑19. As revealed by the univariate analysis, the prevalence of real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) positivity increased with age (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.02-1.14, p = 0.012), working in a COVID‑19 ward (OR = 3.33, 95% CI: 1.09-10.21, p = 0.031), presenting alteration or loss of smell/taste (OR = 10.00, 95%CI: 2.80-35.69, p < 0.001) and myalgia (OR = 3.20, 95% CI: 1.00-10.26, p = 0.046), while being a resident (OR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05-0.80, p = 0.030) was associated with reduced odds of being infected, compared to staff physicians. Age and loss of smell/taste were the only factors independently associated with RT-PCR positivity. CONCLUSIONS The majority of COVID‑19 cases showed a mild clinical syndrome, ranging from absence or paucity of symptoms to common cold or influenza-like symptoms. The findings of the present study increase the accuracy of the clinical diagnosis for the prompt identification and management of suspected COVID‑19 cases, being particularly useful during resurges of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2021;34(2):189-201.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmo Dini
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Alfredo Montecucco
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Alborz Rahmani
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Chiara Barletta
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Luca Pellegrini
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Nicoletta Debarbieri
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy (Occupational Medicine Unit)
| | - Andrea Orsi
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | | | - Serena Varesano
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Alessia Manca
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy (Occupational Medicine Unit)
| | - Maria Paola Vargiu
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy (Occupational Medicine Unit)
| | - Pia Di Carlo
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Emanuela Massa
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Giancarlo Icardi
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
| | - Paolo Durando
- University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy (Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL))
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Ferraiolo A, Barra F, Kratochwila C, Paudice M, Vellone VG, Godano E, Varesano S, Noberasco G, Ferrero S, Arioni C. Report of Positive Placental Swabs for SARS-CoV-2 in an Asymptomatic Pregnant Woman with COVID-19. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56060306. [PMID: 32580461 PMCID: PMC7353888 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56060306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Currently, limited data on maternal and neonatal outcomes of pregnant women with infection and pneumonia related to SARS coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are available. Our report aims to describe a case of placental swabs positive for the molecular research on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 RNA in an asymptomatic woman with positive rhino-pharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 who underwent an urgent cesarean section in our obstetrics unit. Sample collection, processing, and laboratory testing were conducted in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidance. In the next months, conclusive data on obstetrical outcomes concerning the gestational age and pregnancy comorbidity as well as the eventual maternal–fetal transmission are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Ferraiolo
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Fabio Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.K.); (S.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-334-943-7959
| | - Chiara Kratochwila
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.K.); (S.F.)
| | - Michele Paudice
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.P.); (V.G.V.)
| | - Valerio Gaetano Vellone
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (M.P.); (V.G.V.)
| | - Elisabetta Godano
- Neonatology Unit, University of Genoa, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Serena Varesano
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.V.); (G.N.)
| | - Giovanni Noberasco
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.V.); (G.N.)
| | - Simone Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.K.); (S.F.)
| | - Cesare Arioni
- Neonatology Unit, University of Genoa, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.G.); (C.A.)
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Di Mascolo D, Varesano S, Benelli R, Mollica H, Salis A, Zocchi MR, Decuzzi P, Poggi A. Nanoformulated Zoledronic Acid Boosts the Vδ2 T Cell Immunotherapeutic Potential in Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 12:E104. [PMID: 31906080 PMCID: PMC7017311 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aminobisphosphonates, such as zoledronic acid (ZA), have shown potential in the treatment of different malignancies, including colorectal carcinoma (CRC). Yet, their clinical exploitation is limited by their high bone affinity and modest bioavailability. Here, ZA is encapsulated into the aqueous core of spherical polymeric nanoparticles (SPNs), whose size and architecture resemble that of biological vesicles. On Vδ2 T cells, derived from the peripheral blood of healthy donors and CRC patients, ZA-SPNs induce proliferation and trigger activation up to three orders of magnitude more efficiently than soluble ZA. These activated Vδ2 T cells kill CRC cells and tumor spheroids, and are able to migrate toward CRC cells in a microfluidic system. Notably, ZA-SPNs can also stimulate the proliferation of Vδ2 T cells from the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes of CRC patients and boost their cytotoxic activity against patients' autologous tumor organoids. These data represent a first step toward the use of nanoformulated ZA for immunotherapy in CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Di Mascolo
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy; (D.D.M.); (H.M.); (P.D.)
| | - Serena Varesano
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Roberto Benelli
- Immunology Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Hilaria Mollica
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy; (D.D.M.); (H.M.); (P.D.)
| | | | - Maria Raffaella Zocchi
- Division of Immunology, Transplants and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Paolo Decuzzi
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genoa, Italy; (D.D.M.); (H.M.); (P.D.)
| | - Alessandro Poggi
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
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Varesano S, Zocchi MR, Poggi A. Corrigendum: Zoledronate Triggers Vδ2 T Cells to Destroy and Kill Spheroids of Colon Carcinoma: Quantitative Image Analysis of Three-Dimensional Cultures. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1343. [PMID: 29930560 PMCID: PMC6008379 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Varesano
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Raffaella Zocchi
- Division of Immunology, Transplants and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Poggi
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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Poggi A, Varesano S, Zocchi MR. Corrigendum: How to Hit Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Make the Tumor Microenvironment Immunostimulant Rather Than Immunosuppressive. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1342. [PMID: 29923549 PMCID: PMC6004550 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article on p. 262 in vol. 9, PMID: 29515580.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Poggi
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Serena Varesano
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Raffaella Zocchi
- Division of Immunology, Transplants and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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12
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Varesano S, Zocchi MR, Poggi A. Zoledronate Triggers Vδ2 T Cells to Destroy and Kill Spheroids of Colon Carcinoma: Quantitative Image Analysis of Three-Dimensional Cultures. Front Immunol 2018; 9:998. [PMID: 29867975 PMCID: PMC5951939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
New successful anti-cancer strategies are based on the stimulation of immune reaction against tumors: however, preclinical testing of such treatments is still a challenge. To improve the screening of anti-cancer drugs, three-dimensional (3D) culture systems, including spheroids, have been validated as preclinical models. We propose the spheroid 3D system to test anti-tumor drug-induced immune responses. We show that colorectal carcinoma (CRC) spheroids, generated with the epithelial growth factor (EGF), can be co-cultured with Vδ2 T cells to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of these effector lymphocytes. By computerized image analysis, the precise and unbiased measure of perimeters and areas of tumor spheroids is achievable, beside the calculation of their volume. CRC spheroid size is related to ATP content and cell number, as parameters for cell metabolism and proliferation; in turn, crystal violet staining can check the viability of cells inside the spheroids to detect tumor killing by Vδ2 T cells. In this 3D cultures, we tested (a) zoledronate that is known to activate Vδ2 T cells and (b) the therapeutic anti-EGF receptor humanized antibody cetuximab that can elicit the antibody-dependent cytotoxicity of tumor cells by effector lymphocytes. Zoledronate triggers Vδ2 T cells to kill and degrade CRC spheroids; we detected the T-cell receptor dependency of zoledronate effect, conceivably due to the recognition of phosphoantigens produced as a drug effect on target cell metabolism. In addition, cetuximab triggered Vδ2 T lymphocytes to exert the antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity of CRC spheroids. Finally, the system reveals differences in the sensitivity of CRC cell lines to the action of Vδ2 T lymphocytes and in the efficiency of anti-tumor effectors from distinct donors. A limitation of this model is the absence of cells, including fibroblasts, that compose tumor microenvironment and influence drug response. Nevertheless, the system can be improved by setting mixed spheroids, made of stromal and cancer cells. We conclude that this type of spheroid 3D culture is a feasible and reliable system to evaluate and measure anti-tumor drug-induced immune responses beside direct anti-cancer drug effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Varesano
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Raffaella Zocchi
- Division of Immunology, Transplants and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Poggi
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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Poggi A, Varesano S, Zocchi MR. How to Hit Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Make the Tumor Microenvironment Immunostimulant Rather Than Immunosuppressive. Front Immunol 2018; 9:262. [PMID: 29515580 PMCID: PMC5825917 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental evidence indicates that mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) may regulate tumor microenvironment (TME). It is conceivable that the interaction with MSC can influence neoplastic cell functional behavior, remodeling TME and generating a tumor cell niche that supports tissue neovascularization, tumor invasion and metastasization. In addition, MSC can release transforming growth factor-beta that is involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of carcinoma cells; this transition is essential to give rise to aggressive tumor cells and favor cancer progression. Also, MSC can both affect the anti-tumor immune response and limit drug availability surrounding tumor cells, thus creating a sort of barrier. This mechanism, in principle, should limit tumor expansion but, on the contrary, often leads to the impairment of the immune system-mediated recognition of tumor cells. Furthermore, the cross-talk between MSC and anti-tumor lymphocytes of the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system strongly drives TME to become immunosuppressive. Indeed, MSC can trigger the generation of several types of regulatory cells which block immune response and eventually impair the elimination of tumor cells. Based on these considerations, it should be possible to favor the anti-tumor immune response acting on TME. First, we will review the molecular mechanisms involved in MSC-mediated regulation of immune response. Second, we will focus on the experimental data supporting that it is possible to convert TME from immunosuppressive to immunostimulant, specifically targeting MSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Poggi
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Serena Varesano
- Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Raffaella Zocchi
- Division of Immunology, Transplants and Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Salvi S, Ravetti JL, Arena G, Musso C, Varesano S, Pistillo MP, Canessa PA, Ferro P, Fedeli F, Roncella S. Evaluation of RET Gene Rearrangement by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization in Malignant Mesothelioma. J Thorac Oncol 2017; 13:e12-e14. [PMID: 29258668 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2017.09.1957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Salvi
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Jean Louis Ravetti
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Arena
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Clementina Musso
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Serena Varesano
- Unit of Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Pistillo
- Unit of Tumor Epigenetics, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Pier Aldo Canessa
- Division of Pneumology, Azienda Sanitaria Locale 5, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Paola Ferro
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, Azienda Sanitaria Locale 5, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Franco Fedeli
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, Azienda Sanitaria Locale 5, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Silvio Roncella
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, Azienda Sanitaria Locale 5, La Spezia, Italy.
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Salvi S, Varesano S, Boccardo S, Ravetti JL, Canessa PA, Pistillo MP, Ferro P, Fedeli F, Roncella S. FISH Analysis of Crizotinib Target Genes ROS1 / ALK / MET in Malignant Mesothelioma. J Thorac Oncol 2017; 12:e116-e118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Vigani A, Salvi S, Varesano S, Boccardo S, Ferro P, Canessa P, Franceschini M, Dessanti P, Ravetti J, Fedeli F, Pistillo M, Roncella S. Evaluation of MET gene status in malignant mesothelioma by fluorescent in situ hybridization. Ann Oncol 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdw332.15] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
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Roncella S, Laurent S, Fontana V, Ferro P, Franceschini MC, Salvi S, Varesano S, Boccardo S, Vigani A, Morabito A, Canessa PA, Giannoni U, Rosenberg I, Valentino A, Fedeli F, Merlo DF, Ceppi M, Riggio S, Romani M, Saverino D, Poggi A, Pistillo MP. CTLA-4 in mesothelioma patients: tissue expression, body fluid levels and possible relevance as a prognostic factor. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2016; 65:909-17. [PMID: 27207606 PMCID: PMC11029598 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-016-1844-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [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: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
CTLA-4 function as a negative regulator of T cell-mediated immune response is well established, whereas much less is known about the immunoregulatory role of its soluble isoform (sCTLA-4). No data are available on CTLA-4 expression and prognostic impact in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). We investigated, by immunohistochemistry, CTLA-4 expression in tumor tissues and, by ELISA, sCTLA-4 levels in sera and matched pleural effusions from 45 MPM patients. Prognostic effect of CTLA-4 expression on overall survival (OS) was assessed through Cox regression and prognostic significance expressed as death rate ratio (HR). We found that 56.0 % of MPM tissues expressed CTLA-4 with variable intensity and percentage of positive cells estimated by the immunoreactive score. sCTLA-4 levels were significantly higher in sera (S-sCTLA-4) than in pleural effusions (PE-sCTLA-4) (geometric mean ratio = 2.70, P value = 0.020). CTLA-4 expression at the tissue level was higher in the epithelioid histological subtype than in the sarcomatoid, whereas at the serum level, it was higher in the sarcomatoid subtype. A homogeneous favorable prognostic effect was found for CTLA-4 overexpression in tissue, serum and pleural effusion. Interestingly, only the PE-sCTLA-4 was found to be a statistically significant positive prognostic factor (HR = 0.37, 95 % CI = 0.18-0.77, P value = 0.007). Indeed, PE-sCTLA-4 correlated with CTLA-4 expression in tissues, whereas this latter expression showed a weak association with OS. To confirm our findings, further experimental evidences obtained from a larger cohort of MPM patients are required. However, our results would indicate a positive correlation of PE-sCTLA-4 levels and OS in MPM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvio Roncella
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, ASL5, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Stefania Laurent
- Department of Internal Medicine (DIMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Fontana
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Ferro
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, ASL5, La Spezia, Italy
| | | | - Sandra Salvi
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Serena Varesano
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Boccardo
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Anna Morabito
- Unit of Tumor Epigenetics, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Franco Fedeli
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, ASL5, La Spezia, Italy
| | | | - Marcello Ceppi
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Salvatore Riggio
- Blood Transfusion Centre, IRCCS AOU-San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Massimo Romani
- Unit of Tumor Epigenetics, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniele Saverino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Poggi
- Unit of Molecular Oncology and Angiogenesis, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
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Salvi S, Varesano S, Boccardo S, Ravetti JL, Canessa PA, Pistillo MP, Ferro P, Fedeli F, Roncella S. EGFR Status in Mesothelioma: Possible Implications for the Efficacy of Anti-EGFR and Anti-MET Therapies. J Thorac Oncol 2016; 11:e78-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Varesano S, Salvi S, Boccardo S, Ravetti JL, Pistillo MP, Canessa PA, Ferro P, Fedeli F, Roncella S. MET Gene Status in Malignant Mesothelioma Using Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization. J Thorac Oncol 2016; 11:e28-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2015.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Varesano S, Leo C, Boccardo S, Salvi S, Truini M, Ferro P, Fedeli F, Canessa PA, Dessanti P, Pistillo MP, Roncella S. Status of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) in malignant mesothelioma. Anticancer Res 2014; 34:2589-2592. [PMID: 24778081] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a particularly aggressive type of primary tumor, associated with exposure to asbestos, and characterized by high mortality. To date, there is no curative therapy for MM. The receptor anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) was found to be mutated in many cases of cancer and used as a target in biological therapies. We investigated whether this pharmacological treatment could also be applicable to MM. MATERIALS AND METHODS The state of ALK was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and fluorescent in situ hybridization in 63 MM tissue specimens. RESULTS None of the 63 MM samples showed overexpression or translocation of ALK. CONCLUSION Our preliminary data exclude the utility of analysis of the ALK gene in MM and suggest that ALK inhibitor therapy is not applicable to MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Varesano
- Division of Histopathology and Cytopathology, PO Sant'Andrea ASL5., Via Mario Asso n. 2. 19124 La Spezia, Italy.
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