New Cu(I)-thiosemicarbazone complexes bearing dual action as anticancer and antiparasitic agents

Four new Cu(I) complexes of general formula [Cu(PP)(LL)][BF4], where PP is a phosphane ligand (triphenylphosphane or 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphano)ethane (dppe)) and LL  is a  bioactive thiosemicarbazone ligand (4-(methyl)-1-(5-nitrofurfurylidene)thiosemicarbazone) or 4-(ethyl)-1-(5-nitrofurfurylidene)thiosemicarbazone) were synthesized and fully characterized by classical analytical and spectroscopic methods. The anti-trypanosome and the anticancer activities were investigated in vitro on Trypanossoma cruzi and in two human cancer cell lines (ovarian OVCAR3 and prostate PC3). To test the selectivity towards the parasites and cancer cells, the cytotoxicity on normal monkey kidney VERO and human dermal fibroblasts HDF cells was also evaluated. The new heteroleptic complexes were more cytotoxic on T. cruzi and chemoresistant prostate PC3 cells than the benchmark drugs nifurtimox and cisplatin. The compounds also showed a high level of cellular internalization by the OVCAR3 cells and, in particular, those containing the dppe phosphane, showed activation of the cell death mechanism via apoptosis. On the other hand, the production of ROS induced by these complexes was not evident.

Image-Guided Nanodelivery of Pt(IV) Prodrugs to GRP-Receptor Positive Tumors

Over the last decades, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have proven to be remarkable tools for drug delivery and theranostic applications in cancer treatment. On the other hand, Pt(IV) prodrugs have been employed as an interesting alternative to the more common Pt(II) complexes, such as cisplatin, for cancer chemotherapy. Searching to design an image-guided nanocarrier to deliver selectively Pt(IV) prodrugs to tumors expressing the gastrin releasing peptide receptor (GRPR), we have synthesized small core AuNPs carrying a thiolated DOTA derivative, a GRPR-targeting bombesin analog (BBN[7-14]) and a Pt(IV) prodrug attached to the AuNPs without (AuNP-BBN-Pt1) or with a PEGylated linker (AuNP-BBN-Pt2 and AuNP-BBN-Pt3). In the GRPR+ prostate cancer PC3 cell line, the cytotoxic activity of the designed AuNP-BBN-Pt nanoparticles is strongly influenced by the presence of the PEGylated linker. Thus, AuNP-BBN-Pt1 displayed the lowest IC₅₀ value (9.3 ± 2.3 µM of Pt), which is comparable to that exhibited by cisplatin in the same cell line. In contrast, AuNP-BBN-Pt1 showed an IC₅₀ value of 97 ± 18 µM of Pt in the non-tumoral RWPE-1 prostate cells with a much higher selective index (SI) towards PC3 cells (SI = 10) when compared with cisplatin (SI = 1.3). The AuNPs were also successfully labeled with ⁶⁷Ga and the resulting ⁶⁷Ga-AuNP-BBN-Pt were used to assess their cellular uptake in PC3 cells, with AuNP-BBN-Pt1 also displaying the highest cellular internalization. Finally, intratumoral administration of ⁶⁷Ga-AuNP-BBN-Pt1 in a PC3 tumor-bearing mice showed a prolonged retention of the nanoparticle compared to that of cisplatin, with optimal in vivo stability and 20% of the injected platinum remaining in the tumor after 72 h post-injection. Furthermore, microSPECT imaging studies confirmed the uptake and considerable retention of the ⁶⁷Ga-labeled AuNPs in the tumors. Overall, these results show the potential of these targeted AuNPs loaded with Pt(IV) prodrugs for prostate cancer theranostics.

Boron clusters (ferrabisdicarbollides) shaping the future as radiosensitizers for multimodal (chemo/radio/PBFR) therapy of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and fatal primary brain tumor, and is highly resistant to conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Therefore, the development of multidrug resistance and tumor recurrence are frequent. Given the poor survival with the current treatments, new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Radiotherapy (RT) is a common cancer treatment modality for GBM. However, there is still a need to improve RT efficiency, while reducing the severe side effects. Radiosensitizers can enhance the killing effect on tumor cells with less side effects on healthy tissues. Herein, we present our pioneering study on the highly stable and amphiphilic metallacarboranes, ferrabis(dicarbollides) ([o-FESAN]^- and [8,8'-I2-o-FESAN]^-), as potential radiosensitizers for GBM radiotherapy. We propose radiation methodologies that utilize secondary radiation emissions from iodine and iron, using ferrabis(dicarbollides) as iodine/iron donors, aiming to achieve a greater therapeutic effect than that of a conventional radiotherapy. As a proof-of-concept, we show that using 2D and 3D models of U87 cells, the cellular viability and survival were reduced using this treatment approach. We also tested for the first time the proton boron fusion reaction (PBFR) with ferrabis(dicarbollides), taking advantage of their high boron (¹¹B) content. The results from the cellular damage response obtained suggest that proton boron fusion radiation therapy, when combined with boron-rich compounds, is a promising modality to fight against resistant tumors. Although these results are encouraging, more developments are needed to further explore ferrabis(dicarbollides) as radiosensitizers towards a positive impact on the therapeutic strategies for GBM.

Tuning the Biological Activity of Camphorimine Complexes through Metal Selection

The cytotoxic activity of four sets of camphorimine complexes based on the Cu(I), Cu(II), Ag(I), and Au(I) metal sites were assessed against the cisplatin-sensitive A2780 and OVCAR3 ovarian cancer cells. The results showed that the gold complexes were ca. one order of magnitude more active than the silver complexes, which in turn were ca. one order of magnitude more active than the copper complexes. An important finding was that the cytotoxic activity of the Ag(I) and Au(I) camphorimine complexes was higher than that of cisplatin. Another relevant aspect was that the camphorimine complexes did not interact significantly with DNA, in contrast with cisplatin. The cytotoxic activity of the camphorimine complexes displayed a direct relationship with the cellular uptake by OVCAR3 cells, as ascertained by PIXE (particle-induced X-ray emission). The levels of ROS (reactive oxygen species) formation exhibited an inverse relationship with the reduction potentials for the complexes with the same metal, as assessed by cyclic voltammetry. In order to gain insight into the toxicity of the complexes, their cytotoxicity toward nontumoral cells (HDF and V79 fibroblasts) was evaluated. The in vivo cytotoxicity of complex 5 using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans was also assessed. The silver camphorimine complexes displayed the highest selectivity coefficients (activity vs. toxicity).

Dose Rate Effects on the Selective Radiosensitization of Prostate Cells by GRPR-Targeted Gold Nanoparticles

For a while, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been recognized as potential radiosensitizers in cancer radiation therapy, mainly due to their physical properties, making them appealing for medical applications. Nevertheless, the performance of AuNPs as radiosensitizers still raises important questions that need further investigation. Searching for selective prostate (PCa) radiosensitizing agents, we studied the radiosensitization capability of the target-specific AuNP-BBN in cancer versus non-cancerous prostate cells, including the evaluation of dose rate effects in comparison with non-targeted counterparts (AuNP-TDOTA). PCa cells were found to exhibit increased AuNP uptake when compared to non-tumoral ones, leading to a significant loss of cellular proliferation ability and complex DNA damage, evidenced by the occurrence of multiple micronucleus per binucleated cell, in the case of PC3 cells irradiated with 2 Gy of γ-rays, after incubation with AuNP-BBN. Remarkably, the treatment of the PC3 cells with AuNP-BBN led to a much stronger influence of the dose rate on the cellular survival upon γ-photon irradiation, as well as on their genomic instability. Overall, AuNP-BBN emerged in this study as a very promising nanotool for the efficient and selective radiosensitization of human prostate cancer PC3 cells, therefore deserving further preclinical evaluation in adequate animal models for prostate cancer radiotherapy.

In vitro toxicity of particulate matter emissions from residential pellet combustion

Particulate matter emissions (PM₁₀) from the combustion, in a residential stove, of two commercial brands of certified (ENplus A1) pellets, a non-certified brand and laboratory made pellets of acacia were tested for their ability to induce ecotoxic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic responses in unicellular organisms and a human cell line. Ecotoxicity was evaluated through the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition assay. Moreover, cytotoxicity was assessed at two time points (24- and 48-hr) through two complementary techniques in order to evaluate the cellular metabolic activity and membrane integrity of human lung epithelial cells A549. The Ames test using two Salmonella typhimurium strains (TA100 and TA98) was employed to assess the mutagenic potential of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon fraction extracted from the PM₁₀ samples. Results obtained with the bioluminescent bacteria indicated that only particles from the combustion of acacia pellets were toxic. All samples induced impairment on the A549 cells metabolic activity, while no significant release of lactate dehydrogenase was recorded. PM₁₀ emissions from acacia pellets were the most cytotoxic, while samples from both certified pellets evoked significant cytotoxicity at lower doses. Cytotoxicity time-dependency was only observed for PM₁₀ from the combustion of acacia pellets and one of the brands of certified pellets. Mutagenic activity was not detected in both S. typhimurium strains. This study emphasises the role of the raw material for pellet manufacturing on the toxicological profile of PM emissions. Alternative raw materials should be deeply investigated before their use in pelletisation and combustion in residential appliances.

Mössbauer effect using 57Fe-ferrabisdicarbollide ([o-57FESAN]-): a glance into the potential of a low-dose approach for glioblastoma radiotherapy

Although a variety of cancers is initially susceptible to chemotherapy, they eventually develop multi-drug resistance. To overcome this situation, more effective and selective treatments are necessary by using anti-tumour agents...

In vitro toxicity of indoor and outdoor PM10 from residential wood combustion

Particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter < 10 μm (PM₁₀) was collected, indoors and outdoors, when wood burning appliances (open fireplace and woodstove) were in operation. The PM₁₀ ecotoxicity was assessed with the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition assay, while the cytotoxicity was evaluated by the WST-8 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays using A549 cells. Extracts of PM₁₀-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were tested for their mutagenicity through the TA98 and TA100 Ames test. The bioluminescent inhibition assay revealed that indoor particles released from the fireplace were the most toxic. Indoors, the reduction in A549 cell metabolic activity was over two times higher for the fireplace in comparison with the woodstove (32 ± 3.2% and 72 ± 7.6% at the highest dose, respectively). Indoor particles from the fireplace were found to induce greater cytotoxicity than the corresponding outdoor samples. Combined WST-8 and LDH results suggest that PM₁₀ exposure induce apoptotic cell death pathway in which the cell membrane integrity is maintained. Indoor and outdoor samples lacked direct and indirect mutagenic activity in any of the tester strains. For indoor-generated PM₁₀, organic carbon and PAH were significantly correlated with cell viability and bioluminescence reduction, suggesting a role of organic compounds in toxicity.

Gold(iii) bis(dithiolene) complexes: from molecular conductors to prospective anticancer, antimicrobial and antiplasmodial agents

The anticancer, antimicrobial and antiplasmodial activities of six gold(iii) bis(dithiolene) complexes were studied. Complexes 1-6 showed relevant anticancer properties against A2780/A2780cisR ovarian cancer cells (IC50 values of 0.08-2 μM), also being able to overcome cisplatin resistance in A2780cisR cells. Complex 1 also exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 12.1 ± 3.9 μg mL-1) and both Candida glabrata and Candida albicans (MICs of 9.7 ± 2.7 and 19.9 ± 2.4 μg mL-1, respectively). In addition, all complexes displayed antiplasmodial activity against the Plasmodium berghei parasite liver stages, even exhibiting better results than the ones obtained using primaquine, an anti-malarial drug. Mechanistic studies support the idea that thioredoxin reductase, but not DNA, is a possible target of these complexes. Complex 1 is stable under biological conditions, which would be important if this compound is ever to be considered as a drug. Overall, the results obtained evidenced the promising biological activity of complex 1, which might have potential as a novel anticancer, antimicrobial and antiplasmodial agent to be used as an alternative to current therapeutics.

Sono-Biosynthesis and Characterization of AuNPs from Danube Delta Nymphaea alba Root Extracts and Their Biological Properties

Root extracts from Danube Delta Nymphaea alba were used to prepare gold nanoparticles (AuNPRn) by reducing HAuCl4 at different pHs (6.4-8.4) using ultrasonic irradiation: an easy, cheap, eco-friendly and green approach. Their antibacterial and anticancer activities were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and A2780 ovarian cancer cells, respectively. The AuNPRn were characterized concerning their phytoconstituents (polyphenols, flavonoids and condensed tannins) and gold content. All of the nanoparticles were negatively charged. AuNPRn exhibited a hydrodynamic size distribution ranging from 32 nm to 280 nm, with the larger nanoparticles being obtained with an Au/root extract ratio of 0.56, pH 7 and 10 min of sonication (AuNPR1), whereas the smallest were obtained with an Au/root extract ratio of 0.24, pH 7.8 and 40 min of sonication (AuNPR4). The TEM/SEM images showed that the AuNPRn had different shapes. The ATR-FTIR indicated that AuNPRn interact mainly with hydroxyl groups present in the polyphenol compounds, which also confirm their high antioxidant capacity, except for AuNPR2 obtained at pH 6.4. Among the AuNPRn, the smallest ones exhibited enhanced antimicrobial and anticancer activities.

Innate immunity is linked to the severity of stable coronary artery disease through sCD40L pathway

Introduction

Soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) activates different cell types involved in innate immunity, including macrophages and platelets. The influence of innate immunity, particularly of sCD40L pathway, on stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) expression is not fully understood. We evaluated if sCD40L expression is related to the presence of SCAD and to its clinical and anatomical severity.

Methods

We prospectively recruited two groups of age- and sex-matched participants: 1) without coronary artery disease (CAD) (calcium score=0, no soft plaques on coronary angioCT scan) (controls); and 2) with stable obstructive CAD (≥50% for the left main, ≥70% for other epicardial vessels, on invasive coronary angiography). Acute atherosclerotic events or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) within 12 months, previous percutaneous coronary intervention, heart failure, infection, malignancy and severe renal dysfunction were exclusion criteria. Clinical, laboratorial and anatomical data were prospectively collected. Serum was stored at −80°C and measurements were performed in a blinded fashion, by ELISA (sCD40L Human Quantikine).

Results

Sixty-three participants were included: 14 controls and 49 patients with SCAD. In SCAD patients, classical cardiovascular risk factors were globally more prevalent and the serum levels of sCD40L (5553±3356 vs 3099±644 ng/mL, p&lt;0.001), leucocytes counts (7.6±1.8 vs 6.4±1.7x109/L, p=0.010), neutrophils counts (4.4±1.5 vs 3.5±1.5x109/L, p=0.010) and neutrophils/lymphocytes ratio (2.4±1.1 vs 1.9±0.7, p=0.019) were significantly higher, while c-reactive protein (CRP) levels did not differ, compared to controls. sCD40L levels were positively correlated with leucocytes (r=0.36) and neutrophils (r=0.28) counts (all p&lt;0.05), but not with CRP. Clinically, sCD40L levels were associated (ANOVA p&lt;0.001) and positively correlated (Pearson r=0.54, p&lt;0.001) with angina severity (Fig. 1A). Anatomically, patients with a higher number of significant coronary artery lesions presented higher sCD40L levels (Fig. 1B); sCD40L levels were positively correlated with the number of: diseased vessels (r=0.33), significant coronary artery lesions (r=0.31), and all coronary artery lesions (r=0.33) (all p&lt;0.05), without correlation with the Gensini score. Linear regression analysis considering clinical and laboratorial data revealed that sCD40L was an independent predictor of CAD severity, as assessed by the number of significant lesions (model: sCD40L β 0.28, 95% CI 0.03–0.34; hypertension β 1.1, 95% CI 0.97–3.64). Among SCAD patients, those with previous CABG (n=15) had lower sCD40L levels than patients waiting for revascularization (n=34) (3317±1680 vs 6793±3631 ng/mL, p&lt;0.001).

Conclusions

Increased expression of sCD40L was associated with the presence of SCAD, with angina severity and with CAD severity, while previous revascularization was associated with decreased sCD40L levels.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Inflammation is associated with the presence and severity of chronic coronary syndrome through soluble CD40 ligand

INTRODUCTION

Inflammation contributes to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, although the underlying inflammatory pathways are not entirely known. Specifically, the role of the proinflammatory soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) on the expression of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) is not completely understood. We evaluated whether sCD40L expression is associated with the presence of CCS and with the clinical and anatomical severity of CCS.

METHODS

We prospectively recruited 94 participants, assigned to two groups matched by age and sex, without coronary artery disease (n=26) and with CCS (n=68). Clinical, laboratory and anatomical data were prospectively collected, and serum levels of sCD40L were measured.

RESULTS

In patients with CCS, classic cardiovascular risk factors were more prevalent, and the sCD40L levels, leukocyte and neutrophil counts, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, but not the C-reactive protein levels, were significantly higher than those in controls. sCD40L was independently associated with the presence of obstructive coronary artery disease in multivariate analysis. Regarding CCS severity, sCD40L levels showed a significant stepwise increase with increasing angina severity (ANOVA P=0.001). In addition, sCD40L was independently associated with the anatomical severity of coronary artery disease, as assessed by the Gensini score. Among patients with CCS, those with previous coronary artery bypass grafting (n=23) had lower sCD40L levels than patients waiting for revascularization (n=45) [4.3 (2.1) ng/mL vs. 6.8 (3.5) ng/mL, P=0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of the proinflammatory sCD40L was associated with the presence of CCS and reflected the clinical and anatomical severity of CCS. In addition, we describe for the first time the association between prior CABG and reduced sCD40L levels in patients with CCS.

Antiproliferative Activity of Functionalized Histidine-derived Au(I) bis-NHC Complexes for Bioconjugation

A series of histidine derived Au(I) bis-NHC complexes bearing different ester, amide and carboxylic acid functionalities as well as wingtip substituents is synthesized and characterized. The stability in aqueous media, in vitro cytotoxicity in a set of cancer cell lines (MCF7, PC3 and A2780/A2780cisR) along with the cellular uptake are evaluated. Stability tests suggest hydrolysis of the ester within 8 h, which might lead to deactivation. Furthermore, the bis-NHC system shows a sufficient stability against cysteine and the thiol containing peptide GSH. The benzyl ester and amide show the highest activity comparable to the benchmark compound cisplatin, with the ester only displaying a slightly lower cytotoxicity than the amide. A cellular uptake study revealed that the benzyl ester and the amide could have different intracellular distribution profiles but both complexes induce perturbations of the cellular physiological processes. The simple modifiability and high stability of the complexes provides a promising system for upcoming post modifications to enable targeted cancer therapy.

Copper Complexes with 1,10-Phenanthroline Derivatives: Underlying Factors Affecting Their Cytotoxicity

The interpretation of in vitro cytotoxicity data of Cu(II)-1,10-phenanthroline (phen) complexes normally does not take into account the speciation that complexes undergo in cell incubation media and its implications in cellular uptake and mechanisms of action. We synthesize and test the activity of several distinct Cu(II)-phen compounds; up to 24 h of incubation, the cytotoxic activity differs for the Cu complexes and the corresponding free ligands, but for longer incubation times (e.g., 72 h), all compounds display similar activity. Combining the use of several spectroscopic, spectrometric, and electrochemical techniques, the speciation of Cu-phen compounds in cell incubation media is evaluated, indicating that the originally added complex almost totally decomposed and that Cu(II) and phen are mainly bound to bovine serum albumin. Several methods are used to disclose relationships between structure, activity, speciation in incubation media, cellular uptake, distribution of Cu in cells, and cytotoxicity. Contrary to what is reported in most studies, we conclude that interaction with cell components and cell death involves the separate action of Cu ions and phen molecules, not [Cu(phen)_n] species. This conclusion should similarly apply to many other Cu-ligand systems reported to date.

Antitumour and Toxicity Evaluation of a Ru(II)-Cyclopentadienyl Complex in a Prostate Cancer Model by Imaging Tools

BACKGROUND

Ruthenium complexes have been extensively investigated for their prospective value as alternatives to cisplatin. Recently, we reported the in vitro anticancer properties of a family of organometallic ruthenium( II)-cyclopentadienyl complexes and have explored their mechanism of action.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vivo antitumour efficacy and toxicity of one of these Ru(II) compounds, [RuCp(mTPPMSNa)(2,2'-bipy)][CF3SO2] (TM85) which displayed an interesting spectrum of activity against several cancer cells.

METHODS

Studies to assess the antitumour activity and toxicity were performed in a metastatic prostate (PC3) mice model using ICP-MS, nuclear microscopy, elemental analysis and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).

RESULTS

TM85 showed low systemic toxicity but no significant tumour reduction, when administered at tolerated dose (20mg/kg) over 10 days. Ru was mainly retained in the liver and less in kidneys, with low accumulation in tumour. Increased bilirubin levels, anomalous Ca and Fe concentrations in liver and mitochondria alterations were indicative of liver injury. The hepatotoxicity observed was less severe than that of cisplatin and no nephrotoxicity was found.

CONCLUSION

Under the experimental conditions of this study, TM85 is less toxic than cisplatin, induces similar tumour reduction and avoids the formation of metastatic foci. No renal toxicity was observed by the analysis of creatinine levels and the effective renal plasma flow by 99mTc-MAG3 clearance. Hence, it can be considered a valuable compound for further studies in the field of Ru-based anticancer drugs.

Size-Dependent Biological Activities of Fluorescent Organosilane-Modified Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Surface modification of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) is a strategy to tune their biocompatibility. Herein we report on the synthesis of a series of fluorescent ZnO NPs modified with 2–10% (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane (GPTMS) to investigate the fluorescence properties and to explore their applications in microbiology and biomedicine. The obtained ZnO NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Size reduction occurred from ca. 13 nm in unmodified ZnO to 3–4 nm in silane-modified samples and fluorescence spectra showed size-dependent variation of the photoemission bands' intensity. The antibacterial and cytotoxic activities were investigated on Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria, and in ovarian (A2780) and prostate (PC3) cancer cells by tetrazolium/formazan-based methods. The antibacterial effect was higher for E. coli than S. aureus, while the cytotoxic activity was similar for both cancer cells and varied with the particle size. Cell death by apoptosis, and/or necrosis versus autophagy, were explored by flow cytometry using an Annexin V based-method and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The main mechanism of ZnO NPs toxicity may involve the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the induction of apoptosis or autophagy. This work revealed the potential utility of GPTMS-modified ZnO NPs in the treatment of bacterial infection and cancer.

Predictors of nutritional and inflammation risk in hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition and chronic inflammation are prevalent complications in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Different nutritional assessment tools are used to identify patients at risk. A composite and comprehensive malnutrition inflammation score (MIS) has been correlated with morbidity and mortality, and appears to be a robust and quantitative tool.

OBJECTIVES

Determine malnutrition risk profile in a sample of portuguese HD patients; determine the association of clinical and laboratory factors with MIS, and the impact of each parameter on MIS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed, between September 15th of 2015 and January 31st of 2016, a cross sectional analysis of 2975 patients, representing 25% of portuguese HD patients. 59% were men (66.7 ± 14.8 years); 31% diabetic; 79% and 21% performed, respectively, high-flux HD and HDF. A MIS >5 was considered to indicate higher risk and was present in 1489 patients (50%). Amongst all parameters, comorbilities/dialysis vintage, transferrin, functional capacity, changes in body weight and decreased fat stores showed the higher impact, while albumin had one of the lowest impact on the nutritional risk.

MULTIVARIABLE ANALYSIS

Higher age (>75 years, OR 1.71, p < 0.001), diabetes (OR 1.25, p = 0.026), lower P levels (OR 1.57,p = 0.001), higher Ca levels (OR 1.51, p < 0.001), higher ERI (OR 1.05, p < 0.001), higher Kt/V (OR 2.14, p < 0.001) and higher CRP (OR 1.01, p < 0.001) were independently associated with a higher risk of MIS>5; higher nPNA (OR 0.29, p < 0.001) and higher Pcreat (OR 0.88, p < 0.001) were associated with a risk reduction of MIS>5 (95% CI).

CONCLUSIONS

Routine clinical and analytic parameters were found to be associated with MIS range that might indicate higher risk, and may represent a simple alert sign for the need of further assessments.

Protein profiling as early detection biomarkers for TiO2 nanoparticle toxicity in Daphnia magna

The mode of action for nanoparticle (NP) toxicity in aquatic organisms is not yet fully understood. In this work, a strategy other than toxicity testing was applied to Daphnia magna exposed to TiO₂-NPs: the use of nuclear microscopy and the assessment of protein profile. D. magna is a keystone species broadly used as a model system in ecotoxicology. Titanium (Ti) was found in the D. magna digestive tract, mainly in the gut. The penetration of Ti into the epithelial region was greater at higher exposure levels and also observed in eggs in the brood pouch. The protein profile of individuals exposed to different concentrations showed that 2.8 and 5.6 mg/L TiO₂-NP concentrations induced an over-expression of the majority of proteins, in particular proteins with molecular weight of ∼120, 85 and 15 kDa, while 11.2 mg/L TiO₂-NP had an inhibitory effect on protein expression. The Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization with tandem time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS) analysis of these proteins consistently identified them as vitellogenin (Vtg)-like proteins, associated with enzymes involved in redox balance. These results indicate that Vtg-like proteins are up-regulated in D. magna exposed to TiO₂-NPs. Vitellogenesis is associated with the reproduction system, suggesting that TiO₂-NP exposure can impair reproduction by affecting this process. The precise mode of action of TiO₂-NPs is still unclear and the results from this study are a first attempt to identify specific proteins as potential markers of TiO₂-NP toxicity in D. magna, providing useful information for future research.

3D map distribution of metallic nanoparticles in whole cells using MeV ion microscopy

In this work, a new tool was developed, the MORIA program that readily translates Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) output data into visual information, creating a display of the distribution of elements in a true three-dimensional (3D) environment. The program methodology is illustrated with the analysis of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, exposed to copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NP) and HeLa cells in the presence of gold nanoparticles (Au-NP), using different beam species, energies and nuclear microscopy systems. Results demonstrate that for both cell types, the NP internalization can be clearly perceived. The 3D models of the distribution of CuO-NP in S. cerevisiae cells indicate the nonuniform distribution of NP in the cellular environment and a relevant confinement of CuO-NP to the cell wall. This suggests the impenetrability of certain cellular organelles or compartments for NP. By contrast, using a high-resolution ion beam system, discretized agglomerates of Au-NP were visualized inside the HeLa cell. This is consistent with the mechanism of entry of these NPs in the cellular space by endocytosis enclosed in endosomal vesicles. This approach shows RBS to be a powerful imaging technique assigning to nuclear microscopy unparalleled potential to assess nanoparticle distribution inside the cellular volume.

Changes of soluble CD40 ligand in the progression of acute myocardial infarction associate to endothelial nitric oxide synthase polymorphisms and vascular endothelial growth factor but not to platelet CD62P expression

Reported in vitro data implicated soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) in endothelial dysfunction and angiogenesis. However, whether sCD40L could exert that influence in endothelial dysfunction and angiogenesis after injury in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients remains unclear. In the present study, we evaluated the association of sCD40L with markers of platelet activation, endothelial, and vascular function during a recovery period early after AMI. To achieve this goal, the time changes of soluble, platelet-bound, and microparticle-bound CD40L levels over 1 month were assessed in AMI patients and correlated with endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) polymorphisms, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentrations, and platelet expression of P-selectin (CD62P). The association of soluble form, platelet-bound, and microparticle-bound CD40L with CD62P expression on platelets, a marker of platelet activation, was also assessed to evaluate the role of CD40L in the thrombosis, whereas the association with eNOS and VEGF was to evaluate the role of CD40L in vascular dysfunction. This work shows for the first time that time changes of sCD40L over 1 month after myocardial infarct onset were associated with G894T eNOS polymorphism and with the VEGF concentrations, but not to the platelet CD62P expression. These results indicate that, in terms of AMI pathophysiology, the sCD40L cannot be consider just as being involved in thrombosis and inflammation but also as having a relevant role in vascular and endothelial dysfunction.

Elemental mapping inventory of the fish Liza aurata brain: a biomarker of metal pollution vulnerability

The elemental distributions in optic tectum of brains of wild Liza aurata a teleost fish captured in polluted and reference coastal areas were assessed quantitatively by nuclear microscopy providing insights into brain vulnerability to metal pollution. Elemental maps enabled us to visualize optic tectum layers and identify cellular arrangements. Whereas Cl, K and Ca contents identify meninges, the Ca, Fe and Zn concentrations distinguish the underneath grey matter, white matter and inner cellular layers. Exposed animals showed significantly decreased P concentrations and increased contents of Cu, Zn and Ni in all brain structures. These changes highlight homeostasis modification, altered permeability of the blood-brain barrier and suggest risk for neurological toxicity. Our study initiated for the first time an inventory of physiological measures containing images and elemental compositions of brain regions of fish exposed to different environmental conditions. This will help defining total and local brain vulnerability to metals and pollution levels.

T lymphocytes alterations are associated with oxidized LDL, troponin T, white blood cells and C-reactive protein during acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Auto-immune responses are associated with oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) release, a key factor in plaque destabilization. Data on the relationship between ox-LDL and T lymphocytes in human populations remains scarce. T cells also react with other molecules from the lesion and/or damage the myocardium.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to examine the relationship between circulating T lymphocytes, ox-LDL, markers of myocardial necrosis (cTnT), myocardial dysfunction (N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide - NT-proBNP) and inflammation (C-reactive protein - CRP) in the setting of acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS

A longitudinal study of 55 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were evaluated at three time points: admission, 2 and 40 days following admission, together with 30 patients with stable angina (SA) and 56 subjects without coronary artery disease serving as controls (CTR).

RESULTS

STEMI patients had maximal ox-LDL values and minimal levels of CD3+ T lymphocytes at admission, which was normalized during the recovery period. The increasing trend of CD3+ T cells was positively associated with an ox-LDL decline over time. CRP and cTnT longitudinal variations were negatively associated with the CD3+ T-cell increasing trend. These associations were not found in SA patients or controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The associations found between CD3+ T lymphocytes, ox-LDL and cTnT suggest a specificity of the immune response in AMI towards arterial and myocardial inflammation and remodelling.

The suitability of EBC-Pb as a new biomarker to assess occupational exposure to lead

Occupational exposure to lead (Pb) requires continuous surveillance to assure, as much as possible, safe and healthful working conditions. This study addresses the suitability of assessing Pb exposure in relevant workers using their exhaled breath condensate (EBC). This study enrolled workers of two different Pb processing industries characterized by moderate and high Pb exposure levels in the work environment, and a group of non-exposed individuals working in offices who served as baseline for Pb exposure. The EBC-Pb of workers reflected the Pb levels in the work environment of all three settings, although the relationship with B-Pb was not clear. The lack of correlation between EBC-Pb and B-Pb most probably indicates the time lag for Pb to enter in the two body pools. The EBC-Pb seems to reflect immediate exposure, providing a prompt signature of Pb in the environmental that may interact directly with the organ. By delivering short-term evaluation of exposure, EBC-Pb represents a clear advantage in biomonitoring and may become an interesting tool for estimating organ burden.

Distribution and quantitation of skin iron in primary haemochromatosis: correlation with total body iron stores in patients undergoing phlebotomy

Measurement of the concentration of iron in the skin, if correlated with total body iron stores, may enable better informed decisions on when to initiate, change or stop therapy in hereditary heamochromatosis. Naïve haemochromatosis patients with iron overload and with C282Y and/or H63D HFE mutations were evaluated at the following time-points: disease diagnosis, end of the therapy programme, and 6 months after the end of therapy. The distribution and concentration of iron in the skin were assessed by quantitative nuclear microscopy methods, in parallel with serum and plasma iron concentration. Iron content in the liver was determined by nuclear magnetic resonance. Iron accumulated in the epidermis; its concentration increased from outer to inner layers, being maximal in the basal layer (7.33 ± 0.98 µmol/g). At all 3 time-points, most of the iron was associated with the extracellular space. During the phlebotomy programme the iron content of the skin and the liver decreased by a factor of 2. These data suggest that measurements of iron concentration in the epidermis, which is a readily accessible tissue, reflect iron overload in the liver.

T lymphocytes alterations are associated with oxidized LDL, troponin T, white blood cells and C-reactive protein during acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Auto-immune responses are associated with oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) release, a key factor in plaque destabilization. Data on the relationship between ox-LDL and T lymphocytes in human populations remains scarce. T cells also react with other molecules from the lesion and/or damage the myocardium.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to examine the relationship between circulating T lymphocytes, ox-LDL, markers of myocardial necrosis (cTnT), myocardial dysfunction (N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide - NT-proBNP) and inflammation (C-reactive protein - CRP) in the setting of acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS

A longitudinal study of 55 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were evaluated at three time points: admission, 2 and 40 days following admission, together with 30 patients with stable angina (SA) and 56 subjects without coronary artery disease serving as controls (CTR).

RESULTS

STEMI patients had maximal ox-LDL values and minimal levels of CD3+ T lymphocytes at admission, which was normalized during the recovery period. The increasing trend of CD3+ T cells was positively associated with an ox-LDL decline over time. CRP and cTnT longitudinal variations were negatively associated with the CD3+ T-cell increasing trend. These associations were not found in SA patients or controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The associations found between CD3+ T lymphocytes, ox-LDL and cTnT suggest a specificity of the immune response in AMI towards arterial and myocardial inflammation and remodelling.

Biomarkers of exposure to metal dust in exhaled breath condensate: methodology optimization

In occupational assessments where workers are exposed to metal dust, the liquid condensate of exhaled breath (EBC) may provide unique indication of pulmonary exposure. The main goal of this study was to demonstrate the quality of EBC to biological monitoring of human exposure. A pilot study was performed in a group of metal dust-exposed workers and a group of nonexposed individuals working in offices. Only metal dust-exposed workers were followed along the working week to determine the best time of collection. Metal analyses were performed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Analytical methodology was tested using an EBC sample pool for several occupationally exposed metals: potassium, chromium, manganese, copper, zinc, strontium, cadmium, antimony, and lead. Metal contents in EBC of exposed workers were higher than controls at the beginning of the shift and remained augmented throughout the working week. The results obtained support the establishment of EBC as an indicator of pulmonary exposure to metals.

Consequences of a fat diet in the distribution of minerals within pancreatic tissues of rats and rabbits

The effects of plasma lipid overload on pancreatic islet function and on mineral imbalance are issues under debate. However, the outcomes may be biased by the different metabolisms of different species. This prospective study evaluated whether a high fat diet intake changed the distribution of physiologically relevant elements within pancreatic endocrine and exocrine tissues of Sprague Dawley rats and New Zealand White rabbits. Nuclear microscopy techniques provided images of the specimen density and structure as well as the elemental distributions and quantification of P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Fe, and Zn using unstained cryosections of pancreas. Our results indicate that pancreatic islets in normal rats and rabbits had lower tissue density and higher Ca, Fe, and Zn content compared to exocrine tissue, and that rabbit islets exhibit the highest Zn content (3,300 μg/g in rabbits versus 510 μg/g in rats). Fat diet intake resulted in large deposits of fat in the pancreas, which modified the density contrast of tissues and also resulted in a twofold decrease of Ca and Zn concentrations in islets of both rats and rabbits. This result indicates that a fat diet leads to a reduction in essential trace element concentrations in pancreas, which in turn may hamper endocrine function.

Clastogenic plasma factors in psoriasis--comparison of phototherapy and anti-TNF-α treatments

As previously described, Psoralen plus UVA (PUVA) therapy induces chromosome damage in psoriatic patients. This study evaluates whether these effects are transitory or persistent. In addition, we studied these effects after narrowband UVB (nUVB) and anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α treatments. Among 40 responder patients, 10 received PUVA, 10 nUVB, 10 Infliximab and 10 Etanercept. Disease activity was determined with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. Chromosomal breakage was evaluated by the clastogenic factor (CF) test. Potential clastogenic agents, malondialdehyde (MDA) and TNF-α were measured. Before treatment, the plasma-adjusted clastogenic scores (ACS) of patients were increased. During treatment, a further increase in ACS was observed in both phototherapy groups. Chromosome damage persisted for PUVA patients at week 32, while it diminished after nUVB to ACS values lower than before treatment. MDA and TNF-α values were also increased at baseline. MDA decreased during treatment in all groups, but without reaching normal levels. Plasma TNF-α remained unchanged in PUVA and nUVB but decreased in both anti-TNF-α treatment groups. Psoriasis is accompanied by CF-induced chromosomal breakage that increases during PUVA and nUVB treatments. Plasma clastogenic activity persisted in the follow-up after PUVA, while after nUVB ACS returned to values even lower than baseline. Clastogenic activity during the induction phase with anti-TNF-α remained unchanged.

Serial changes in oxidized low-density lipoprotein associated with culprit vessel in ST-elevation myocardial infarction--a promising marker?

The aim of the present study was to investigate variations in oxidized LDL (oxLDL) at the onset of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and over the recovery period, exploring their relationship with coronary disease severity. A follow-up of 50 AMI patients was evaluated against 25 healthy volunteers (reference group). The AMI patients were evaluated at three time points: at admission before the administration of IIb/IIIa inhibitors and angioplasty, and two and 40 days after intervention. Plasma oxLDL concentrations were measured by ELISA. oxLDL was found to be significantly higher in AMI patients in the acute phase relative to reference levels, decreasing progressively over the recovery period. The results also demonstrated that oxLDL levels were decreased in patients with the left circumflex artery (LCX) as culprit vessel compared to the left anterior descending coronary (LAD) or right coronary artery (RCA). The results highlight a significant increase in oxLDL concentration related to coronary artery disease severity, as conditions such as LCX lesions are usually associated with a favorable prognosis, contrasting with LAD-associated conditions that can compromise large areas of myocardium. The results thus suggest that oxLDL may constitute a promising marker in assessment of AMI evolution.

Systemic markers of the redox balance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is highly prevalent and its pathogenesis is still not completely clarified. Clinically stable patients (n=21) and healthy subjects (n=24) were studied for blood markers of oxidative injury and antioxidant status. The plasma concentration of protein carbonyls was significantly increased in COPD patients, both ex-smokers (0.76 +/- 0.28 nmol mg(-1)) and smokers (0.99 +/- 020 nmol mg(-1)) versus controls (0.49 +/- 0.14 nmol mg(-1)) . The concentration of total thiols was slightly enhanced in plasma of the COPD patients (ex-smokers 492 +/- 23 micromol 1(-1) and smokers 505 +/- 36 micromol 1(-1) versus controls 450 +/- 67 micromol 1(-1); p < 0.05). The activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase was increased in erythrocytes (activity in U g(-1) haemoglobin; ex-smokers 4460 +/- 763 and smokers 4114+/- 1060 versus 3015 +/- 851 in controls; p > 0.01), while glutathione peroxidase activity was decreased in total blood (activity in U g(-1) haemoglobin: ex-smokers 27 +/- 9 and smokers 23 +/- 9 versus 47 +/- 25; p < 0.01). Lower levels of selenium in plasma were also found for COPD patients (concentration in mg 1(-1): ex-smokers 0.030 +/- 0.019 and smokers 0.032 +/- 0.024 versus 0.058 +/- 0.023 in controls; p < 0.01), being more evident in those with very low levels of arterial oxygen pressure. In addition, the levels of potassium and rubidium were increased in blood cells of the patient group. All these changes might reflect oxidant damage and an altered electrolytic homeostasis, and can be interpreted as markers of COPD rather than as indicators of smoking habits.

Variations in inflammatory markers in acute myocardial infarction: a longitudinal study

Inflammation is now considered a key component of atherosclerosis, from fatty streak formation to plaque rupture, subsequent thrombosis, and progressive mechanical and dynamic obstruction. Rupture of the arterial plaque's fibrous cap exposes tissue factors present in the necrotic core, triggering inflammatory signaling, cell adhesion, and the coagulation cascade that eventually leads to thrombus. Cytokines and adhesion molecules are key components of these events that contribute to the development of an atherosclerotic plaque. The cytokine TNF-alpha and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) are indicators of basal inflammation, while the soluble forms of adhesion molecules such as CD40L and P-selectin indicate the extent of platelet activation. This study reports on the follow-up of 17 patients with confirmed acute myocardial infarction (AMI group) undergoing angioplasty and a matched control group of 16 patients without coronary artery disease as verified by coronary angiography. Patients from the AMI group were assessed at the onset of the acute coronary syndrome, within 24 h, before the administration of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors and coronary angioplasty, and during the recovery period, two and 40 days after intervention. For both groups, clinical characteristics were documented and serum concentrations of soluble CD40L, P-selectin, ICAM-1, TNF-alpha, and conventional biochemical indicators were analyzed. For AMI patients, these indicators were recorded at study entry and during follow-up. Concentrations of cytokines and adhesion molecules were measured using commercial immunoassay (ELISA) kits. Significant variations in sP-selectin were observed relative to the control group. Immediately after myocardial infarction, sP-selectin levels rose markedly, followed by a sharp decrease two days later. After 40 days of recovery, sP-selectin levels rose again, returning to the initial values. Variations in sCD40L levels were not significant relative to controls. However, sCD40L concentrations tended to fall until the second day after infarction, followed by a rise, and by the 40th day of recovery levels were slightly higher than controls. Unlike sCD40L and sP-selectin, consistently higher levels of TNF-alpha relative to controls were observed, which were only significant after 40 days of recovery. No significant variations were observed for ICAM-1 serum concentrations in the AMI group. The variations observed demonstrate the role of inflammatory markers in AMI progression and highlight the importance of systemic inflammation in disease evolution. The increased concentration of sP-selectin at infarction onset is evidence of thrombosis and platelet activation. Later, during the recovery period when hemodynamic variables are returning to stability in part due to medication, rises in circulating levels of sCD40L and cytokines such as TNF-alpha may reflect the role of these molecules in the recovery of endothelial and myocardial tissues.