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Dell'Annunziata F, Ciaglia E, Folliero V, Lopardo V, Maciag A, Galdiero M, Puca AA, Franci G. Klebsiella pneumoniae-OMVs activate death-signaling pathways in Human Bronchial Epithelial Host Cells (BEAS-2B). Heliyon 2024; 10:e29017. [PMID: 38644830 PMCID: PMC11031753 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29017] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The programmed cell death pathways of apoptosis are important in mammalian cellular protection from infections. The activation of these pathways depends on the presence of membrane receptors that bind bacterial components to activate the transduction mechanism. In addition to bacteria, these mechanisms can be activated by outer membrane vesicles (OMVs). OMVs are spherical vesicles of 20-250 nm diameter, constitutively released by Gram-negative bacteria. They contain several bacterial determinants including proteins, DNA/RNA and proteins, that activate different cellular processes in host cells. This study focused on Klebsiella pneumoniae-OMVs in activating death mechanisms in human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B). Characterization of purified OMVs was achieved by scanning electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis and protein profiling. Cell viability was assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay while apoptotic induction was measured by flow cytometry and confirmed by western blotting. The OMVs produced showed a spherical morphology, with a diameter of 137.2 ± 41 nm and a vesicular density of 7.8 × 109 particles/mL Exposure of cell monolayers to 50 μg of K. pneumoniae-OMV for 14 h resulted in approximately 25 % cytotoxicity and 41.15-41.14 % of cells undergoing early and late apoptosis. Fluorescence microscopy revealed reduced cellular density, the presence of apoptotic bodies, chromatin condensation, and nuclear membrane blebbing in residual cells. Activation of caspases -3 and -9 and dysregulation of BAX, BIM and Bcl-xL indicated the activation of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. Furthermore, a decrease in the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase involved endoplasmic reticulum stress with the potential formation of reactive oxygen species. These findings provide evidence for the role of OMVs in apoptosis and involvement in the pathogenesis of K. pneumoniae infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Dell'Annunziata
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Veronica Folliero
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Anna Maciag
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138, Naples, Italy
- Complex Operative Unity of Virology and Microbiology, University Hospital of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Annibale Alessandro Puca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Franci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
- Clinical Pathology and Microbiology Unit, San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona University Hospital, 84126, Salerno, Italy
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Pagano C, Ciaglia E, Coppola L, Lopardo V, Raimondo A, Giuseppe M, Lembo S, Laezza C, Bifulco M. Cannabidiol exerts multitarget immunomodulatory effects on PBMCs from individuals with psoriasis vulgaris. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1373435. [PMID: 38601151 PMCID: PMC11004238 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1373435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The involvement of endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the inflammatory cascade, and the ability of phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids and their synthetic analogues to modulate it has become an interesting research area for new therapeutic approaches in inflammatory skin diseases. Cannabidiol (CBD) appears to be the most promising among phytocannabinoids, due to the lack of psychotropic effects and low toxicity profile. Its anti-inflammatory action has been highlighted in different preclinical models, ranging from experimental colitis to arthritis and neuroinflammation. Our aim was to evaluate CBD immune-modulatory effects in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of psoriasis individuals with particular attention to both innate and adaptative immune arms. Methods We performed in vitro immune functional experiments to analyze CBD action on various immune cells active in psoriatic lesions. Results The results showed that CBD produced a shift from Th1 to Th2 response, while boosting cytotoxic activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells. Furthermore, it also exerted a potent action on monocyte differentiation as, after CBD treatment, monocytes from psoriatic individuals were unable to migrate in response to inflammatory stimuli and to fully differentiate into mature dendritic cells. Finally, a M2 skewing of monocyte-derived macrophages by CBD also contributed to the fine tuning of the magnitude of immune responses. Conclusions These data uncover new potential immunomodulatory properties of this cannabinoid suggesting a possible therapeutic action in the treatment of multiple inflammatory skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pagano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Laura Coppola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Annunziata Raimondo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Monfrecola Giuseppe
- Section of Dermatology - Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Lembo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Chiara Laezza
- Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Cattaneo M, Baragetti A, Malovini A, Ciaglia E, Lopardo V, Olmastroni E, Casula M, Ciacci C, Catapano AL, Puca AA. Longevity-associated BPIFB4 gene counteracts the inflammatory signaling. Immun Ageing 2024; 21:19. [PMID: 38468336 PMCID: PMC10929107 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-024-00424-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased levels of pro-inflammatory proteins in plasma can be detected in older individuals and associate with the so called chronic low-grade inflammation, which contributes to a faster progression of aged-related cardiovascular (CV) diseases, including frailty, neurodegeneration, gastro-intestinal diseases and disorders reflected by alterations in the composition of gut microbiota. However, successful genetic programme of long-living individuals alters the trajectory of the ageing process, by promoting an efficient immune response that can counterbalance deleterious effects of inflammation and the CV complications. This is the case of BPIFB4 gene in which, homozygosity for a four single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) haplotype, the Longevity-Associated Variant (LAV) correlates with prolonged health span and reduced risk of CV complications and inflammation. The relation between LAV-BPIFB4 and inflammation has been proven in different experimental models, here we hypothesized that also human homozygous carriers of LAV-BPIFB4 gene may experience a lower inflammatory burden as detected by plasma proteomics that could explain their favourable CV risk trajectory over time. Moreover, we explored the therapeutic effects of LAV-BPIFB4 in inflammatory disease and monolayer model of intestinal barrier. RESULTS We used high-throughput proteomic approach to explore the profiles of circulating proteins from 591 baseline participants selected from the PLIC cohort according to the BPIFB4 genotype to identify the signatures and differences of BPIFB4 genotypes useful for health and disease management. The observational analysis identified a panel of differentially expressed circulating proteins between the homozygous LAV-BPIFB4 carriers and the other alternative BPIFB4 genotypes highlighting in the latter ones a higher grade of immune-inflammatory markers. Moreover, in vitro studies performed on intestinal epithelial organs from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients and monolayer model of intestinal barrier demonstrated the benefit of LAV-BPIFB4 treatment. CONCLUSIONS Homozygosity for LAV-BPIFB4 results in the attenuation of inflammation in PLIC cohort and IBD patients providing preliminary evidences for its therapeutic use in inflammatory disorders that need to be further characterized and confirmed by independent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Baragetti
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Malovini
- Laboratory of Informatics and Systems Engineering for Clinical Research, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Carolina Ciacci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Annibale A Puca
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.
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Buonocore M, Grimaldi M, Santoro A, Covelli V, Marino C, Napolitano E, Novi S, Tecce MF, Ciaglia E, Montella F, Lopardo V, Perugini V, Santin M, D’Ursi AM. Exploiting the Features of Short Peptides to Recognize Specific Cell Surface Markers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15610. [PMID: 37958593 PMCID: PMC10650159 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibodies are the macromolecules of choice to ensure specific recognition of biomarkers in biological assays. However, they present a range of shortfalls including a relatively high production cost and limited tissue penetration. Peptides are relatively small molecules able to reproduce sequences of highly specific paratopes and, although they have less biospecificity than antibodies, they offer advantages like ease of synthesis, modifications of their amino acid sequences and tagging with fluorophores and other molecules required for detection. This work presents a strategy to design peptide sequences able to recognize the CD44 hyaluronic acid receptor present in the plasmalemma of a range of cells including human bone marrow stromal mesenchymal cells. The protocol of identification of the optimal amino acid sequence was based on the combination of rational design and in silico methodologies. This protocol led to the identification of two peptide sequences which were synthesized and tested on human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (hBM-MSCs) for their ability to ensure specific binding to the CD44 receptor. Of the two peptides, one binds CD44 with sensitivity and selectivity, thus proving its potential to be used as a suitable alternative to this antibody in conventional immunostaining. In the context of regenerative medicine, the availability of this peptide could be harnessed to functionalize tissue engineering scaffolds to anchor stem cells as well as to be integrated into systems such as cell sorters to efficiently isolate MSCs from biological samples including various cell subpopulations. The data here reported can represent a model for developing peptide sequences able to recognize hBM-MSCs and other types of cells and for their integration in a range of biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Buonocore
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Manuela Grimaldi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
| | - Angelo Santoro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Farmacia Ospedaliera, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Verdiana Covelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Marino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
- PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development, Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Enza Napolitano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
- PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development, Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Sara Novi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
- PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development, Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Mario Felice Tecce
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.C.); (F.M.); (V.L.)
| | - Francesco Montella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.C.); (F.M.); (V.L.)
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (E.C.); (F.M.); (V.L.)
| | - Valeria Perugini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton BN2 4AT, UK; (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Matteo Santin
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices, School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton BN2 4AT, UK; (V.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Anna Maria D’Ursi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy or (M.B.); (M.G.); (A.S.); or (V.C.); (C.M.); (E.N.); (S.N.); (M.F.T.)
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Lopardo V, Montella F, Esposito RM, Zannella C, Aliberti SM, Capunzo M, Franci G, Puca AA, Ciaglia E. SARS-CoV-2 Lysate Stimulation Impairs the Release of Platelet-like Particles and Megakaryopoiesis in the MEG-01 Cell Line. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054723. [PMID: 36902151 PMCID: PMC10003077 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection causes a considerable inflammatory response coupled with impaired platelet reactivity, which can lead to platelet disorders recognized as negative prognostic factors in COVID-19 patients. The virus may cause thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis during the different disease stages by destroying or activating platelets and influencing platelet production. While it is known that several viruses can impair megakaryopoiesis by generating an improper production and activation of platelets, the potential involvement of SARS-CoV-2 in affecting megakaryopoiesis is poorly understood. To this purpose, we explored, in vitro, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 stimulation in the MEG-01 cell line, a human megakaryoblastic leukemia cell line, considering its spontaneous capacity of releasing platelet-like particles (PLPs). We interrogated the effect of heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 lysate in the release of PLPs and activation from MEG-01, the signaling pathway influenced by SARS-CoV-2, and the functional effect on macrophagic skewing. The results highlight the potential influence of SARS-CoV-2 in the early stages of megakaryopoiesis by enhancing the production and activation of platelets, very likely due to the impairment of STATs signaling and AMPK activity. Overall, these findings provide new insight into the role of SARS-CoV-2 in affecting megakaryocyte-platelet compartment, possibly unlocking another avenue by which SARS-CoV-2 moves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Francesco Montella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Roberta Maria Esposito
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Silvana Mirella Aliberti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Mario Capunzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Franci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Annibale Alessandro Puca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.A.P.); (E.C.); Tel.: +39-089965235 (A.A.P.); +39-089965115 (E.C.); Fax: +39-089969602 (A.A.P. & E.C.)
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.A.P.); (E.C.); Tel.: +39-089965235 (A.A.P.); +39-089965115 (E.C.); Fax: +39-089969602 (A.A.P. & E.C.)
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Ciaglia E, Montella F, Lopardo V, Esposito RM, Guarracino F, Spinetti G, Maciag AA, Ciccarelli M, Vitale C, Pellegrino SG, Polverino B, Izzo C, Vecchione C, Puca AA. Autoantibodies against the cardiovascular protective BPIFB4 in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Eur Heart J 2022. [PMCID: PMC9619705 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.2936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Introduction The bactericidal/permeability-increasing fold-containing family-B-member-4 (BPIFB4) serves as a biomarker of healthy aging [1,2] and displays prognostic relevance in vascular pathology [3–5]. We recently described a drop in plasma BPIFB4 level in patients with severe COVID-19 compared to low-grade disease patients [6]. Purpose As COVID-19 is associated with autoimmune features, we developed the methods for determination of Anti-BPIFB4 IgG (autoAbs) and then characterized their neutralizing activity in COVID-19 patients. Methods A sandwich ELISA-based colorimetric assay followed by immunoblot analysis detected the presence of autoAbs against BPIFB4 in 60 hospitalized COVID-19 patients and in 30 healthy volunteers. Compared to the healthy controls, the optical density (OD) level of autoAbs in COVID-19 showed considerable variability distributing over a range between 0.13 and 0.85. We thus divided the patients into two groups, one with OD >0,29 and the other one with a OD >0,29, where 0,29 represents the OD mean value of autoAbs against BPIFB4 in physiological conditions. Results Since patients with higher OD are mainly those who spend in average a higher number of days in hospital, we stratified the patients according to the Length of Stay (LoS) in hospital (Figure 1), and found a trend towards a positive correlation between AutoAbs OD level and length of hospitalization within COVID-19 patients. When present, autoAbs exclusively target the WT-BPIFB4 autoantigens and neglect the recognition of the Longevity-associated-variant-(LAV) of the BPIFB4 gene known for its therapeutic efficacy in cardiomyopathy, atherosclerosis (4), diabetes (6) and platelets' reactivity. As expected, the pre-treatment of human PrP with the recombinant rhLAV-BPIFB4 reduces platelets' aggregation in response to ADP and collagen in COVID-19 patients in vitro. On the other hand, at functional level, the well established LAV-BPIFB4-regulated M2 macrophage polarization (4,7), is neutralized in presence of anti-BPIFB4 autoAbs-enriched plasma. Conclusion We conclude that a significant proportion of hospitalized COVID-19 patients displays BPIFB4-AutoAbs which are positively correlated with the Length of Stay (LoS) in hospital. In future, it will be of utmost importance to clarify if the 4 missense SNPs which distinguish LAV-BPIFB4 gene from its WT-counterpart, are instrumental to prevent the self-tolerance brake-down and the potential development of specific antibodies against endogenous cardiovascular protectors. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Cariplo Foundation (n.2016-0874) to AAP and CV; Ministry of Health (RF-2016-02364864) to AAP and CV
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ciaglia
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - F Montella
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - V Lopardo
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - R M Esposito
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - F Guarracino
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | | | | | - M Ciccarelli
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - C Vitale
- San Giovanni di Dio and Ruggi d'Aragona University Hospital , Salerno , Italy
| | - S G Pellegrino
- San Giovanni di Dio and Ruggi d'Aragona University Hospital , Salerno , Italy
| | - B Polverino
- San Giovanni di Dio and Ruggi d'Aragona University Hospital , Salerno , Italy
| | - C Izzo
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - C Vecchione
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
| | - A A Puca
- University of Salerno School of Medicine , Salerno , Italy
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7
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Montella F, Lopardo V, Cattaneo M, Carrizzo A, Vecchione C, Ciaglia E, Puca AA. Role of BPIFB4 in Immune System and Cardiovascular Disease: the Lesson from Centenarians. Transl Med UniSa 2022. [DOI: 10.37825/2239-9747.1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Puca AA, Lopardo V, Montella F, Di Pietro P, Cesselli D, Rolle IG, Bulfoni M, Di Sarno V, Iaconetta G, Campiglia P, Vecchione C, Beltrami AP, Ciaglia E. The Longevity-Associated Variant of BPIFB4 Reduces Senescence in Glioma Cells and in Patients' Lymphocytes Favoring Chemotherapy Efficacy. Cells 2022; 11:294. [PMID: 35053408 PMCID: PMC8774353 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain cancer with the median age at diagnosis around 64 years, thus pointing to aging as an important risk factor. Indeed, aging, by increasing the senescence burden, is configured as a negative prognostic factor for GBM stage. Furthermore, several anti-GBM therapies exist, such as temozolomide (TMZ) and etoposide (ETP), that unfortunately trigger senescence and the secretion of proinflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors that are responsible for the improper burst of (i) tumorigenesis, (ii) cancer metastasis, (iii) immunosuppression, and (iv) tissue dysfunction. Thus, adjuvant therapies that limit senescence are urgently needed. The longevity-associated variant (LAV) of the bactericidal/permeability-increasing fold-containing family B member 4 (BPIFB4) gene previously demonstrated a modulatory activity in restoring age-related immune dysfunction and in balancing the low-grade inflammatory status of elderly people. Based on the above findings, we tested LAV-BPIFB4 senotherapeutic effects on senescent glioblastoma U87-MG cells and on T cells from GBM patients. We interrogated SA-β-gal and HLA-E senescence markers, SASP factors, and proliferation and apoptosis assays. The results highlighted a LAV-BPIFB4 remodeling of the senescent phenotype of GBM cells, enhancement of their sensitivity to temozolomide and a selective reduction of the T cells' senescence from GBM patients. Overall, these findings candidate LAV-BPIFB4 as an adjuvant therapy for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annibale Alessandro Puca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
| | - Francesco Montella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
| | - Paola Di Pietro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
| | - Daniela Cesselli
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (D.C.); (I.G.R.); (M.B.); (A.P.B.)
| | - Irene Giulia Rolle
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (D.C.); (I.G.R.); (M.B.); (A.P.B.)
| | - Michela Bulfoni
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (D.C.); (I.G.R.); (M.B.); (A.P.B.)
| | - Veronica Di Sarno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, Fisciano, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.D.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Giorgio Iaconetta
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona”, 84131 Salerno, Italy
| | - Pietro Campiglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, Fisciano, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.D.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Carmine Vecchione
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
- Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, 86077 Isernia, Italy
| | - Antonio Paolo Beltrami
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (D.C.); (I.G.R.); (M.B.); (A.P.B.)
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy; (V.L.); (F.M.); (P.D.P.); (G.I.); (C.V.)
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9
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Montella F, Lopardo V, Cattaneo M, Carrizzo A, Vecchione C, Ciaglia E, Puca AA. The Role of BPIFB4 in Immune System and Cardiovascular Disease: The Lesson from Centenarians. Transl Med UniSa 2021; 24:1-12. [PMID: 36447743 PMCID: PMC9673912 DOI: 10.37825/2239-9754.1029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent discoveries have shed light on the participation of the immune system in the physio pathology of the cardiovascular system underpinning the importance of keeping the balance of the first to preserve the latter. Aging, along with other risk factors, can challenge such balance triggering the onset of cardiovascular diseases. Among several mediators ensuring the proper cross-talk between the two systems, bactericidal/permeability-increasing fold-containing family B member 4 (BPIFB4) has been shown to have a pivotal role, also by sustaining important signals such as eNOS and PKC-alpha. In addition, the Longevity-associated variant (LAV), which is an haplotype allele in BPIFB4 characterized by 4 missense polymorphisms, enriched in homozygosity in Long Living Individuals (LLIs), has been shown to be efficient, if administered systemically through gene therapy, in improving many aspects of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This occurs mainly through a fine immune system remodeling across: 1) a M2 macrophage polarizing effect, 2) a favorable redistribution of the circulating monocyte cell subsets and 3) the reduction of T-cell activation. Furthermore, LAV-BPIFB4 treatment induced a desirable recovery of the inflammatory balance by mitigating the pro-inflammatory factor levels and enhancing the anti-inflammatory boost through a mechanism that is partially dependent on SDF-1/CXCR4 axis. Importantly, the remarkable effects of LAV-BPIFB4 treatment, which translates in increased BPIFB4 circulating levels, mirror what occurs in long-living individuals (LLIs) in whom the high circulating levels of BPIFB4 are protective from age-related and CVDs and emphasize the reason why LLIs are considered a model of successful aging. Here, we review the mechanisms by which LAV-BPIFB4 exerts its immunomodulatory activity in improving the cardiovascular-immune system dialogue that might strengthen its role as a key mediator in CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Montella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno,
Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno,
Italy
| | - Monica Cattaneo
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138, Milan,
Italy
| | - Albino Carrizzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno,
Italy
- Department of Vascular Physiopathology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, 86077, Isernia,
Italy
| | - Carmine Vecchione
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno,
Italy
- Department of Vascular Physiopathology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, 86077, Isernia,
Italy
| | - Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno,
Italy
| | - Annibale Alessandro Puca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via Salvatore Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Salerno,
Italy
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20138, Milan,
Italy
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10
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Ciaglia E, Lopardo V, Montella F, Sellitto C, Manzo V, De Bellis E, Iannaccone T, Franci G, Zannella C, Pagliano P, Di Pietro P, Carrizzo A, Vecchione C, Conti V, Filippelli A, Puca AA. BPIFB4 Circulating Levels and Its Prognostic Relevance in COVID-19. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 76:1775-1783. [PMID: 34396395 PMCID: PMC8436991 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab208] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging and comorbidities make individuals at greatest risk of COVID-19 serious illness and mortality due to senescence-related events and deleterious inflammation. Long-living individuals (LLIs) are less susceptible to inflammation and develop more resiliency to COVID-19. As demonstrated, LLIs are characterized by high circulating levels of BPIFB4, a protein involved in homeostatic response to inflammatory stimuli. Also, LLIs show enrichment of homozygous genotype for the minor alleles of a 4 missense single-nucleotide polymorphism haplotype (longevity-associated variant [LAV]) in BPIFB4, able to counteract progression of diseases in animal models. Thus, the present study was designed to assess the presence and significance of BPIFB4 level in COVID-19 patients and the potential therapeutic use of LAV-BPIFB4 in fighting COVID-19. BPIFB4 plasma concentration was found significantly higher in LLIs compared to old healthy controls while it significantly decreased in 64 COVID-19 patients. Further, the drop in BPIFB4 values correlated with disease severity. Accordingly to the LAV-BPIFB4 immunomodulatory role, while lysates of SARS-CoV-2-infected cells induced an inflammatory response in healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro, the co-treatment with recombinant protein (rh) LAV-BPIFB4 resulted in a protective and self-limiting reaction, culminating in the downregulation of CD69 activating-marker for T cells (both TCD4+ and TCD8+) and in MCP-1 reduction. On the contrary, rhLAV-BPIFB4 induced a rapid increase in IL-18 and IL-1b levels, shown largely protective during the early stages of the virus infection. This evidence, along with the ability of rhLAV-BPIFB4 to counteract the cytotoxicity induced by SARS-CoV-2 lysate in selected target cell lines, corroborates BPIFB4 prognostic value and open new therapeutic possibilities in more vulnerable people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Francesco Montella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Carmine Sellitto
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona," Salerno, Italy
| | - Valentina Manzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona," Salerno, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Bellis
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona," Salerno, Italy
| | - Teresa Iannaccone
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Franci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Pagliano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona," Salerno, Italy
| | - Paola Di Pietro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Albino Carrizzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Isernia, Italy
| | - Carmine Vecchione
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Isernia, Italy
| | - Valeria Conti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona," Salerno, Italy
| | - Amelia Filippelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics Unit, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona," Salerno, Italy
| | - Annibale Alessandro Puca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana," University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy.,Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
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11
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Ciaglia E, Montella F, Malavolta M, Carrizzo A, Lopardo V, Vecchione C, Puca A. Murine transfer of a human gene variant associated with exceptional longevity displays senolytic effects both in immune compartment and endothelium of aged mice. Eur Heart J 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/ehaa946.3830] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The persistence and accumulation of senescent cells has been shown to potentially play a role in the pathophysiology of age-related cardiovascular diseases.
Indeed with time, a decline in immune efficacy, termed immunesenescence, and a deleterious secretory phenotype of senescent cells (SASP) generate that inflammatory background mainly mediating the elderly cardiovascular phenotype. Long Living Individuals (LLI) which delay aging, represent a model of positive biology and an exceptional resource to study and find a way to improve general public health. Previous studies from our group have shown that a human gene associated with exceptional longevity (LAV-BPIFB4) was able to block the atherosclerotic process in ApoE−/− mice by conferring the animals with a pro-resolving M2 macrophages profile. Furthermore, LAV-BPIFB4 promotes the recruitment of hematopoietic stem cells, reparative vascularization and frailty reduction.
Here we sought to underpinn the role of LAV-BPIFB4 in counteracting the age-related remodeling of the immune responses.
The effects of systemic adeno-associated viral vector-mediated LAV-BPIFB4 gene transfer on the immune dynamics in old mice have been investigated by an extensive flow cytometric approach in lymphoid tissues (bone marrow, spleen and peripheral blood). C57BL/6J mice were assigned to two age-matched experimental groups: a treatment group (AAV-LAV-BPIFB4; N=6 mice, aged 18–23 months and a control group (AAV-GFP; N=6 mice, aged 18–23 months. 30th and 60th day since the beginning of the infection, SA-beta Gal substrate has been used to identify CD45+ senescent cells in freshly isolated PBMC, splenocytes, bone marrow (BM)-derived cells.
As expected, we monitored an increase in SA-betaGal activity in blood. This increase is most significant in CD11b+ myeloid cells, whithout affecting neither CD3+T neither NK1.1+Natural Killer (NK) cell compartment. Notably 30 days AAV-LAV-BPIFB4 infection and to a more the 60 days-treatment, resulted in a significant decrease in senescent pool of peripheral immune cells and a concomitant enrichment of senescent cells in spleen. Concomitantly, aorta from AAV-LAV treated mice showed significant reduction in SA-beta Gal positive area. Furthermore a LAV-BPIFB4 induction of pro-resolving M2 macrophages compared to control group was documented in the main haemocateretic organ. As consequence the senolytic effect of LAV-BPIFB4 gene-therapy well correlated with the rescue of proliferative index of splenocytes upon PHA stimulation, and their functional protective response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in term of IL-6 and TNF-alpha secretion. The restoration of a protective and balanced immune response finally reflected the reduction of senescent phenopype acquired by mouse aortic endothelial cells during the aging process in vivo.
A better underpinning of the senolytic action of LAV-BPIFB4 may offer a valuable therapeutic tool to reverse aging phenotype causing most of cardiac diseases
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Cariplo Foundation (n.2016-0874) to AAP and CV
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ciaglia
- University of Salerno School of Medicine, Salerno, Italy
| | - F Montella
- University of Salerno School of Medicine, Salerno, Italy
| | - M Malavolta
- National Institute of Hospital and Care for Elderly (INRCA), Ancona, Italy
| | - A Carrizzo
- University of Salerno School of Medicine, Salerno, Italy
| | - V Lopardo
- University of Salerno School of Medicine, Salerno, Italy
| | - C Vecchione
- University of Salerno School of Medicine, Salerno, Italy
| | - A.A Puca
- IRCCS - MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
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12
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Ciaglia E, Montella F, Lopardo V, Scala P, Ferrario A, Cattaneo M, Carrizzo A, Malovini A, Madeddu P, Vecchione C, Puca AA. Circulating BPIFB4 Levels Associate With and Influence the Abundance of Reparative Monocytes and Macrophages in Long Living Individuals. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1034. [PMID: 32547549 PMCID: PMC7272600 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-Living Individuals (LLIs) delay aging and are less prone to chronic inflammatory reactions. Whether a distinct monocytes and macrophages repertoire is involved in such a characteristic remains unknown. Previous studies from our group have shown high levels of the host defense BPI Fold Containing Family B Member 4 (BPIFB4) protein in the peripheral blood of LLIs. Moreover, a polymorphic variant of the BPIFB4 gene associated with exceptional longevity (LAV-BPIFB4) confers protection from cardiovascular diseases underpinned by low-grade chronic inflammation, such as atherosclerosis. We hypothesize that BPIFB4 may influence monocytes pool and macrophages skewing, shifting the balance toward an anti-inflammatory phenotype. We profiled circulating monocytes in 52 LLIs (median-age 97) and 52 healthy volunteers (median-age 55) using flow cytometry. If the frequency of total monocyte did not change, the intermediate CD14++CD16+ monocytes counts were lower in LLIs compared to control adults. Conversely, non-classical CD14+CD16++ monocyte counts, which are M2 macrophage precursors with an immunomodulatory function, were found significantly associated with the LLIs' state. In a differentiation assay, supplementation of the LLIs' plasma enhanced the capacity of monocytes, either from LLIs or controls, to acquire a paracrine M2 phenotype. A neutralizing antibody against the phosphorylation site (ser 75) of BPIFB4 blunted the M2 skewing effect of the LLIs' plasma. These data indicate that LLIs carry a peculiar anti-inflammatory myeloid profile, which is associated with and possibly sustained by high circulating levels of BPIFB4. Supplementation of recombinant BPIFB4 may represent a novel means to attenuate inflammation-related conditions typical of unhealthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ciaglia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Francesco Montella
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Valentina Lopardo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Scala
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Anna Ferrario
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Cattaneo
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Albino Carrizzo
- Vascular Pathophysiology Unit - IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Alberto Malovini
- Laboratory of Informatics and Systems Engineering for Clinical Research, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Madeddu
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy.,Bristol Medical School - Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Carmine Vecchione
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.,Vascular Pathophysiology Unit - IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Annibale Alessandro Puca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.,Cardiovascular Research Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
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