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Manzo C, Longo C, Bianchin A. C1q Solid-Phase Enzymatic Microassay for Detection of Circulating Immune Complexes: Its Application in Human Breast Cancer. Tumori 2018; 68:47-52. [PMID: 7041380 DOI: 10.1177/030089168206800108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Circulating immune complexes (CIC) were detected and quantitated in human breast cancer to monitor the efficiency of mastectomy. For this aim a microimmunoenzymatic test was set up, applying a solid-phase C1q. Features of this assay can be summarized as follows: ability to estimate as low as 10 ng of aggregated human IgG (ΔIgG), good reproducibility and simplicity of execution, and small serum sample required. A group of women with breast cancer at different stages (TNM classification) was tested for CIC, and 31.75 % were positive. Almost all patients submitted to surgery showed a reduction of this parameter thereafter. A parallel study was carried out in another group of women with benign breast disease, and a significant incidence of CIC was found.
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Bianchin A, Bell A, Chubb AJ, Doolan N, Leneghan D, Stavropoulos I, Shields DC, Mooney C. Design and evaluation of antimalarial peptides derived from prediction of short linear motifs in proteins related to erythrocyte invasion. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127383. [PMID: 26039561 PMCID: PMC4454681 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the blood stage of the malaria causing parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, to predict potential protein interactions between the parasite merozoite and the host erythrocyte and design peptides that could interrupt these predicted interactions. We screened the P. falciparum and human proteomes for computationally predicted short linear motifs (SLiMs) in cytoplasmic portions of transmembrane proteins that could play roles in the invasion of the erythrocyte by the merozoite, an essential step in malarial pathogenesis. We tested thirteen peptides predicted to contain SLiMs, twelve of them palmitoylated to enhance membrane targeting, and found three that blocked parasite growth in culture by inhibiting the initiation of new infections in erythrocytes. Scrambled peptides for two of the most promising peptides suggested that their activity may be reflective of amino acid properties, in particular, positive charge. However, one peptide showed effects which were stronger than those of scrambled peptides. This was derived from human red blood cell glycophorin-B. We concluded that proteome-wide computational screening of the intracellular regions of both host and pathogen adhesion proteins provides potential lead peptides for the development of anti-malarial compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Bianchin
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Complex and Adaptive Systems Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Microbiology, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Moyne Institute of Preventive Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Angus Bell
- Department of Microbiology, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Moyne Institute of Preventive Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anthony J. Chubb
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Complex and Adaptive Systems Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nathalie Doolan
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Darren Leneghan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Moyne Institute of Preventive Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ilias Stavropoulos
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Complex and Adaptive Systems Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Denis C. Shields
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Complex and Adaptive Systems Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine Mooney
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Complex and Adaptive Systems Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- * E-mail:
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Bianchin A, Allemand F, Bell A, Chubb AJ, Guichou JF. Two crystal structures of the FK506-binding domain of Plasmodium falciparum FKBP35 in complex with rapamycin at high resolution. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 71:1319-27. [PMID: 26057671 DOI: 10.1107/s1399004715006239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Antimalarial chemotherapy continues to be challenging in view of the emergence of drug resistance, especially artemisinin resistance in Southeast Asia. It is critical that novel antimalarial drugs are identified that inhibit new targets with unexplored mechanisms of action. It has been demonstrated that the immunosuppressive drug rapamycin, which is currently in clinical use to prevent organ-transplant rejection, has antimalarial effects. The Plasmodium falciparum target protein is PfFKBP35, a unique immunophilin FK506-binding protein (FKBP). This protein family binds rapamycin, FK506 and other immunosuppressive and non-immunosuppressive macrolactones. Here, two crystallographic structures of rapamycin in complex with the FK506-binding domain of PfFKBP35 at high resolution, in both its oxidized and reduced forms, are reported. In comparison with the human FKBP12-rapamycin complex reported previously, the structures reveal differences in the β4-β6 segment that lines the rapamycin binding site. Structural differences between the Plasmodium protein and human hFKBP12 include the replacement of Cys106 and Ser109 by His87 and Ile90, respectively. The proximity of Cys106 to the bound rapamycin molecule (4-5 Å) suggests possible routes for the rational design of analogues of rapamycin with specific antiparasitic activity. Comparison of the structures with the PfFKBD-FK506 complex shows that both drugs interact with the same binding-site residues. These two new structures highlight the structural differences and the specific interactions that must be kept in consideration for the rational design of rapamycin analogues with antimalarial activity that specifically bind to PfFKBP35 without immunosuppressive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Bianchin
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Frederic Allemand
- Centre de Biochimie Structurale, CNRS UMR5048, INSERM U1054, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Angus Bell
- Department of Microbiology, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Moyne Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anthony J Chubb
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jean François Guichou
- Centre de Biochimie Structurale, CNRS UMR5048, INSERM U1054, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Bianchin A, Pellizzato N, Martano L, Castioni CA. Therapeutic hypothermia in Italian intensive care units: a national survey. Minerva Anestesiol 2009; 75:357-362. [PMID: 19088699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the use of therapeutic hypothermia (TH) in Italian Intensive Care Units (ICUs). DESIGN AND SETTINGS After being contacted by phone, a structured questionnaire to evaluate the use of TH was sent to all Italian ICUs. The questionnaire was aimed at determining the extent of TH use (indications, methods employed, target temperature, side effects) as well as the reasons why some ICUs did not make use of TH for the treatment of cardiac arrest patients. RESULTS Out of the 448 ICUs contacted, 90% (n=404) returned the questionnaire completely filled in. Sixty-six responders (16%) made use of TH for post-resuscitation care, and 4% used TH for other clinical scenarios (10 ICUs for traumatic brain injury; 5 ICUs for other reasons). More than half used TH not only for cardiac arrest subsequent to ventricular fibrillation (VF), but also for non-VF cardiac arrest with the duration of TH treatment being within the time suggested by advanced cardiac life support guidelines. On the other hand, 80% of questionnaire responders did not use TH, mainly because they felt they did not have enough data/experience (45%), or simply because they had never thought about it (18%). CONCLUSIONS Despite authoritative data supporting its effectiveness and safety, use of TH as part of the therapy in a post-resuscitation period in Italian ICUs remains low. The reasons for not using it are not completely justified and suggest that an educational program is advisable in order to boost the utilization of TH in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bianchin
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Azienda ULSS 8, Hospital of Montebelluna, Treviso, Italy.
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Bianchin A, De Luca A, Caminiti A. Postoperative vomiting reduction after laparoscopic cholecystectomy with single dose of dexamethasone. Minerva Anestesiol 2007; 73:343-6. [PMID: 17589423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is high after laparoscopic surgery. A number of drugs have been used for prevention; in some studies a single dexamethasone dose before induction of anaesthesia has been effective. METHODS To test the effectiveness of this therapy, we recruited 80 patients in a double-blind placebo-controlled study (dexamethasone 8 mg or placebo) scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We measured nausea, vomiting, postoperative pain and length of stay. RESULTS Patients who received preoperative dexamethasone had a reduction of PONV, but experienced the same degree of postoperative pain and remained in the hospital for the same duration. No apparent side effects were observed. CONCLUSION Although only a small number of patients were tested, we confirm the efficacy of dexamethasone therapy for reduction of PONV. We suggest routine use of a single dose of dexamethasone for the prevention of PONV in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bianchin
- Anesthesia Department, ASL 8 Asolo, G. Carretta City Hospital, Montebelluna, Treviso, Italy.
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Bianchin A, Polo M, Cavarzerani C. [Intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA) in otorhinolaryngology surgery. A case of failure]. Minerva Anestesiol 2001; 67:727-30. [PMID: 11740420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA) is a very useful device for difficult airway management. The use of this device has not yet been studied in otorhinolaryngology surgery. The case of a 52-year-old man, weighing 104 kg, anesthetized for microlaryngoscopy due to aphonia occurred 6 months before, is reported. Traditional intubation was impossible. ILMA was easily positioned and the patient was ventilated. Intubation using ILMA was difficult and the operation postponed. Later, a bilateral false vocal chords hypertrophy was found. Impossible intubation using ILMA is a rare occurrence, less than 10% of cases. From previous evidence failed intubations are caused by anatomical anomalous formations, often predictables by clinical history. Blind intubation with ILMA is not, probably, the first alternative in these cases. Fiberoptic equipment intubation or use of ILMA with fiberoptic bronchoscope must be considered in these situations for possible better RESULTS. The use of ILMA in otorhinolarynogology surgery must be investigated with a specific study because there are only few experiences on this subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bianchin
- U.O. Anestesia e Rianimazione, Azienda ULSS 8, Asolo, Presidio Ospedaliero di Montebelluna (TV), Italy.
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Iaffaioli RV, Bianchin A, Ruggiero G, Pirozzi G, Ungaro A, Totaro G, Gallo C, De Placido S, Pagliarulo C, Bianco AR. Prognostic significance of circulating immune complexes in a long-term follow-up of breast cancer patients. Oncology 1988; 45:337-43. [PMID: 3412739 DOI: 10.1159/000226636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the prognostic value of circulating immune complexes (CIC) in surgically treated breast cancer patients as compared with other well-known prognostic factors. CIC of IgG and IgM classes were determined by a C1q immunoenzymatic assay in serum samples of 122 patients before mastectomy and 51 of them were found positive for IgG. The other class of CIC was virtually absent. No relevant differences of distribution of other prognostic parameters such as estrogen and progesterone receptors, histological grading, nodal and menopausal status were found according to CIC levels. Level of IgG CIC was affected by surgical removal of the tumor since significant reduction of it was observed 2 weeks after mastectomy; however, this reduction did not show prognostic significance. The patients included in the present study were subjected to a 7-year follow-up; eventually a significant association was observed between preoperative IgG CIC and relapse of the disease. Patients with positive values of immune complexes relapsed more frequently than those with negative values. Serial determinations of IgG CIC were carried out within the 24 months following mastectomy and statistically evaluated for their prognostic use. No significant association was found between increase of IgG CIC level and relapse of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R V Iaffaioli
- Cattedra di Oncologia Medica, II Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Napoli, Italia
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Manzo C, Bianchin A, Pirozzi G, Totaro G. Immune complexes of IgG1 and IgG3 subclasses in human breast cancer sera detected by monoclonal antibodies in an indirect immunoenzymatic assay. Oncology 1983; 40:395-9. [PMID: 6358985 DOI: 10.1159/000225772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Circulating immune complexes (CIC) of the IgG class were detected in sera from 37 (35.58%) out of 104 of the preoperated breast cancer patients studied using a CIq solid-phase enzymatic assay. Sera of positive patients were then tested to identify the IgG subclasses which are part of the complexes with the aim of showing a better correlation between CIC and disease evolution. IgG1- and IgG3-CIC were indirectly detected by the above test using monoclonal antibodies against the mentioned subclasses. Curves obtained with aggregated IgG1 and/or IgG3 showed good sensitivity and specificity of the test. Complexes containing both IgG1 and IgG3 were present in sera from the majority of patients; however, the relative amounts of these subclasses varied from patient to patient.
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