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Maimone G, Azzaro M, Placenti F, Paranhos R, Cabral AS, Decembrini F, Zaccone R, Cosenza A, Rappazzo AC, Patti B, Basilone G, Cuttitta A, Ferreri R, Aronica S, Ferla RL. A Morphometric Approach to Understand Prokaryoplankton: A Study in the Sicily Channel (Central Mediterranean Sea). Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11041019. [PMID: 37110442 PMCID: PMC10142791 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041019] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A new understanding of plankton ecology has been obtained by studying the phenotypic traits of free-living prokaryotes in the Sicily Channel (Central Mediterranean Sea), an area characterised by oligotrophic conditions. During three cruises carried out in July 2012, January 2013 and July 2013, the volume and morphology of prokaryotic cells were assessed microscopically using image analysis in relation to environmental conditions. The study found significant differences in cell morphologies among cruises. The largest cell volumes were observed in the July 2012 cruise (0.170 ± 0.156 µm3), and the smallest in the January 2013 cruise (0.060 ± 0.052 µm3). Cell volume was negatively limited by nutrients and positively by salinity. Seven cellular morphotypes were observed among which cocci, rods and coccobacilli were the most abundant. Cocci, although they prevailed numerically, always showed the smallest volumes. Elongated shapes were positively related to temperature. Relationships between cell morphologies and environmental drivers indicated a bottom-up control of the prokaryotic community. The morphology/morphometry-based approach is a useful tool for studying the prokaryotic community in microbial ecology and should be widely applied to marine microbial populations in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Maimone
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Maurizio Azzaro
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Placenti
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment, CNR IAS, Via del Mare 3, 91021 Capo Granitola, Italy
| | - Rodolfo Paranhos
- Laboratory of Hydrobiology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Av. Prof. Rodolpho Rocco 211, Rio de Janeiro 21941 617, Brazil
| | - Anderson Sousa Cabral
- Laboratory of Hydrobiology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Av. Prof. Rodolpho Rocco 211, Rio de Janeiro 21941 617, Brazil
- Institute of Microbiology Paulo de Góes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, Rio de Janeiro 21941 902, Brazil
| | - Franco Decembrini
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Renata Zaccone
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cosenza
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ciro Rappazzo
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari Unversity of Venice Campus Scientifico, Via Torino 155, 30170 Venice, Italy
| | - Bernardo Patti
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment, CNR IAS, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo 4521, 90149 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gualtiero Basilone
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment, CNR IAS, Via del Mare 3, 91021 Capo Granitola, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean, CNR ISMED, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosalia Ferreri
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment, CNR IAS, Via del Mare 3, 91021 Capo Granitola, Italy
| | - Salvatore Aronica
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment, CNR IAS, Via del Mare 3, 91021 Capo Granitola, Italy
| | - Rosabruna La Ferla
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR ISP, Spianata S. Raineri 82, 98122 Messina, Italy
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Di Natale MV, Carroccio SC, Dattilo S, Cocca M, Nicosia A, Torri M, Bennici CD, Musco M, Masullo T, Russo S, Mazzola A, Cuttitta A. Polymer aging affects the bioavailability of microplastics-associated contaminants in sea urchin embryos. Chemosphere 2022; 309:136720. [PMID: 36206916 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in the marine environment undergo complex weathering factors that can affect their ability to interact with different coexisting environmental contaminants (termed here co-contaminants). In this study, the influence of artificially aging using UV on the sorption of a complex mixture of co-contaminants onto MPs was investigated in order to provide meaningful hypotheses on their individual and combined toxicities on sea urchin embryos. A mixture of artificially aged MPs (PS particles and PA microfibers) combined with 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47), or Cd or Cu, both alone and in a mix, were used to expose embryos of Paracentrotus lividus. The effects of polymer aging on co-contaminants bioavailability were assessed by measuring changes in the transcriptional profile of genes involved in oxidative-stress response and skeletogenic and endo-mesodermal specification. Changes in the sorption ability of MPs to co-contaminants in the aqueous phase highlighted that aging did not affect the sorption of BDE-47 and Cd on MPs, although a certain influence on Cu sorption was found. Despite no morphological effects in embryos at the gastrula stage after MPs/contaminants combinatorial exposure emerged, the greatest influence of the aging process was mainly found for combined exposures which included BDE-47. Finally, the exposure to multiple contaminants generated transcriptional profiles poorly related to those activated by single contaminant, at times suggesting a mixture-dependent different aging influence. These results open new scenarios on the controversial role of vector of co-contaminants for MPs, especially when complex and different types of mixtures were considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Vita Di Natale
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy; University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences (DiSTEM), Via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy.
| | | | | | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute of Polymers, Composites, and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli (NA), Italy.
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Marco Torri
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Carmelo Daniele Bennici
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Marianna Musco
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy; LUMSA University - Via Filippo Parlatore n. 65, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Masullo
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Stefania Russo
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy; University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences (DiSTEM), Via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy.
| | - Antonio Mazzola
- University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences (DiSTEM), Via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy; LUMSA University - Via Filippo Parlatore n. 65, Palermo, Italy.
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3
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Torri M, Pappalardo AM, Ferrito V, Giannì S, Armeri GM, Patti C, Mangiaracina F, Biondo G, Di Natale M, Musco M, Masullo T, Bennici C, Russo S, Nicosia A, Tagliavia M, Mazzola A, Patti B, Cuttitta A. Signals from the deep-sea: Genetic structure, morphometric analysis, and ecological implications of Cyclothone braueri (Pisces, Gonostomatidae) early life stages in the Central Mediterranean Sea. Mar Environ Res 2021; 169:105379. [PMID: 34119918 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Cyclothone braueri (Stomiiformes, Gonostomatidae) is a widely distributed fish inhabiting the mesopelagic zone of marine tropical and temperate waters. Constituting one of the largest biomasses of the ocean, C. braueri is a key element in most of the ecological processes occurring in the twilight layer. We focused on the ecological processes linked to early life stages in relation to marine pelagic environmental drivers (temperature, salinity, food availability and geostrophic currents) considering different regions of the Central Mediterranean Sea. A multivariate morphometric analysis was carried out using six parameters with the aim of discerning different larval morphotypes, while a fragment of 367 bp representing the 12S ribosomal RNA gene was used to perform molecular analyses aimed at determining the intraspecific genetic variability. Analysis highlighted two geographically distinct morphotypes not genetically discernible and related to the different nutritional conditions due to spatial heterogeneities in terms of temperature and food availability. The body depth (BD) emerged as an appropriate morphometric parameter to detect the larval condition in this species. Molecular analysis highlighted a moderate genetic divergence in the fish population, showing the recurrence of two phylogroups not geographically separated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Torri
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, via del mare, 3 Campobello di Mazara, loc. Torretta Granitola, 91021, Trapani, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pappalardo
- University of Catania, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, via Androne 81, 95124, Catania (CT), Italy.
| | - Venera Ferrito
- University of Catania, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, via Androne 81, 95124, Catania (CT), Italy
| | - Salvatore Giannì
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, via del mare, 3 Campobello di Mazara, loc. Torretta Granitola, 91021, Trapani, Italy; University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy
| | - Grazia Maria Armeri
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, via del mare, 3 Campobello di Mazara, loc. Torretta Granitola, 91021, Trapani, Italy
| | - Carlo Patti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, c/o Complesso monumentale ex-Roosevelt, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo 4521, Località Addaura, 90149, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Mangiaracina
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, via del mare, 3 Campobello di Mazara, loc. Torretta Granitola, 91021, Trapani, Italy
| | - Girolama Biondo
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, via del mare, 3 Campobello di Mazara, loc. Torretta Granitola, 91021, Trapani, Italy
| | - Marilena Di Natale
- University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy; National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marianna Musco
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Tiziana Masullo
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Carmelo Bennici
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefania Russo
- University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy; National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Tagliavia
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Mazzola
- University of Palermo, Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, via Archirafi 22, 90123, Palermo (PA), Italy
| | - Bernardo Patti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for the Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, c/o Complesso monumentale ex-Roosevelt, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo 4521, Località Addaura, 90149, Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (ISMed-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, via Filippo Parlatore 95, 90145, Palermo, Italy
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Masullo T, Biondo G, Natale MD, Tagliavia M, Bennici CD, Musco M, Ragusa MA, Costa S, Cuttitta A, Nicosia A. Gene Expression Changes after Parental Exposure to Metals in the Sea Urchin Affect Timing of Genetic Programme of Embryo Development. Biology (Basel) 2021; 10:biology10020103. [PMID: 33535713 PMCID: PMC7912929 DOI: 10.3390/biology10020103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that phenotypic traits can be modulated at the epigenetic level so that some conditions can affect the progeny of exposed individuals. To assess if the exposure of adult animals could result in effects on the offspring, the Mediterranean sea urchin and its well-characterized gene regulatory networks (GRNs) was chosen as a model. Adult animals were exposed to known concentrations of zinc and cadmium (both individually and in combination) for 10 days, and the resulting embryos were followed during the development. The oxidative stress occurring in parental gonads, embryo phenotypes and mortality, and the expression level of a set of selected genes, including members of the skeletogenic and endodermal GRNs, were evaluated. Increased oxidative stress at F0, high rates of developmental aberration with impaired gastrulation, in association to deregulation of genes involved in skeletogenesis (dri, hex, sm50, p16, p19, msp130), endodermal specification (foxa, hox11/13b, wnt8) and epigenetic regulation (kat2A, hdac1, ehmt2, phf8 and UBE2a) occurred either at 24 or 48 hpf. Results strongly indicate that exposure to environmental pollutants can affect not only directly challenged animals but also their progeny (at least F1), influencing optimal timing of genetic programme of embryo development, resulting in an overall impairment of developmental success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Masullo
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean-National Research Council (ISMED-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145 Palermo, Italy; (T.M.); (M.D.N.); (C.D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Girolama Biondo
- Institute for Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment-National Research Council (IAS-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare 3, 91021 Campobello di Mazara, Italy;
| | - Marilena Di Natale
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean-National Research Council (ISMED-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145 Palermo, Italy; (T.M.); (M.D.N.); (C.D.B.); (M.M.)
- Department of Earth and Marine Science (DiSTeM), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 20, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Tagliavia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation-National Research Council-(IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Carmelo Daniele Bennici
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean-National Research Council (ISMED-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145 Palermo, Italy; (T.M.); (M.D.N.); (C.D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Marianna Musco
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean-National Research Council (ISMED-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145 Palermo, Italy; (T.M.); (M.D.N.); (C.D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Antonietta Ragusa
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.R.); (S.C.)
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (M.A.R.); (S.C.)
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean-National Research Council (ISMED-CNR), Detached Unit of Palermo, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145 Palermo, Italy; (T.M.); (M.D.N.); (C.D.B.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation-National Research Council-(IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (A.N.)
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Falcini F, Corrado R, Torri M, Mangano MC, Zarrad R, Di Cintio A, Palatella L, Jarboui O, Missaoui H, Cuttitta A, Patti B, Santoleri R, Sarà G, Lacorata G. Seascape connectivity of European anchovy in the Central Mediterranean Sea revealed by weighted Lagrangian backtracking and bio-energetic modelling. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18630. [PMID: 33122692 PMCID: PMC7596485 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75680-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecological connectivity is one of the most important processes that shape marine populations and ecosystems, determining their distribution, persistence, and productivity. Here we use the synergy of Lagrangian back-trajectories, otolith-derived ages of larvae, and satellite-based chlorophyll-a to identify spawning areas of European anchovy from ichthyoplanktonic data, collected in the Strait of Sicily (Central Mediterranean Sea), i.e., the crucial channel in between the European and African continents. We obtain new evidence of ecosystem connectivity between North Africa and recruitment regions off the southern European coasts. We assess this result by using bio-energetic modeling, which predicts species-specific responses to environmental changes by producing quantitative information on functional traits. Our work gives support to a collaborative and harmonized use of Geographical Sub-Areas, currently identified by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean. It also confirms the need to incorporate climate and environmental variability effects into future marine resources management plans, strategies, and directives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Falcini
- Istituto di Scienze Marine, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Raffaele Corrado
- Istituto di Scienze Marine, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Torri
- Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via del mare 3, 91021, Torretta-Granitola, Campobello di Mazara (TP), Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Mangano
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DiSTeM), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Italy.,Dipartimento Ecologia Marina Integrata, Stazione zoologica Anton Dohrn, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo (complesso Roosevelt), 90142, Palermo, Italy
| | - Rafik Zarrad
- Institut National des Sciences et Technologies de la Mer, BP 138, 5199, Mahdia, Tunisia
| | - Antonio Di Cintio
- Istituto di Scienze Marine, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Palatella
- Liceo Scientifico Statale "C. De Giorgi", viale De Pietro 14, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Othman Jarboui
- Institut National des Sciences et Technologies de la Mer, BP 1035, 3018, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Hechmi Missaoui
- Institut National des Sciences et Technologies de la Mer, 2025, Salambô, Tunisia
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Istituto di Studi sul Mediterraneo, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Filippo Parlatore 65, 90145, Palermo, Italy
| | - Bernardo Patti
- Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo 4521, 90149, Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Rosalia Santoleri
- Istituto di Scienze Marine, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sarà
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e del Mare (DiSTeM), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lacorata
- Istituto di Scienze Marine, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy.,Center of Excellence for Telesensing of Environment and Model Prediction of Severe events (CETEMPS), Università dell'Aquila, via Vetoio snc (Fraz. Coppito), 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
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6
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Falco F, Barra M, Wu G, Dioguardi M, Stincone P, Cuttitta A, Torri M, Bonanno A, Cammarata M. Engraulis encrasicolus larvae from two different environmental spawning areas of the Central Mediterranean Sea: first data on amino acid profiles and biochemical evaluations. The European Zoological Journal 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2020.1823493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F. Falco
- Marine Biological and Biotechnological Resources Institute (IRBIM), National Research Council (CNR), Italy
| | - M. Barra
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS), Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Italy
| | - G. Wu
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, TX, USA
| | - M. Dioguardi
- Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - P. Stincone
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Microbiologia Aplicada, Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - A. Cuttitta
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS), Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Italy
| | - M. Torri
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS), Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Italy
| | - A. Bonanno
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS), Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Italy
| | - M. Cammarata
- Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, University of Palermo, Italy
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Tagliavia M, Salamone M, Bennici C, Quatrini P, Cuttitta A. A modified culture medium for improved isolation of marine vibrios. Microbiologyopen 2019; 8:e00835. [PMID: 31318499 PMCID: PMC6741135 DOI: 10.1002/mbo3.835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine Vibrio members are of great interest for both ecological and biotechnological research, which often relies on their isolation. Whereas many efforts have been made for the detection of food‐borne pathogenic species, much less is known about the performances of standard culture media toward environmental vibrios. We show that the isolation/enumeration of marine vibrios using thiosulfate‐citrate‐bile salts‐sucrose agar (TCBS) as selective medium may be hampered by the variable adaptability of different taxa to the medium, which may result even in isolation failure and/or in substantial total count underestimation. We propose a modified TCBS as isolation medium, adjusted for marine vibrios requirements, which greatly improved their recovery in dilution plate counts, compared with the standard medium. The modified medium offers substantial advantages over TCBS, providing more accurate and likely estimations of the actual presence of vibrios. Modified TCBS allowed the recovery of otherwise undetected vibrios, some of which producing biotechnologically valuable enzymes, thus expanding the isolation power toward potentially new enzyme‐producers Vibrio taxa. Moreover, we report a newly designed Vibrio‐specific PCR primers pair, targeting a unique rpoD sequence, useful for rapid confirmation of isolates as Vibrio members and subsequent genetic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Tagliavia
- IAS-CNR, Campobello di Mazara, Italy.,Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | - Paola Quatrini
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Di Natale M, Bennici C, Biondo G, Masullo T, Monastero C, Tagliavia M, Torri M, Costa S, Ragusa MA, Cuttitta A, Nicosia A. Aberrant gene expression profiles in Mediterranean sea urchin reproductive tissues after metal exposures. Chemosphere 2019; 216:48-58. [PMID: 30359916 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.10.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine organisms are simultaneously exposed to numerous pollutants, among which metals probably represent the most abundant in marine environments. In order to evaluate the effects of metal exposure at molecular level in reproductive tissues, we profiled the sea urchin transcriptional response after non-lethal exposures using pathway-focused mRNA expression analyses. Herein, we show that exposures to relatively high concentrations of both essential and toxic metals hugely affected the gonadic expression of several genes involved in stress-response, detoxification, transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation, without significant changes in gonadosomatic indices. Even though treatments did not result in reproductive tissues visible alterations, metal exposures negatively affected the main mechanisms of stress-response, detoxification and survival of adult P. lividus. Additionally, transcriptional changes observed in P. lividus gonads may cause altered gametogenesis and maintenance of heritable aberrant epigenetic effects. This study leads to the conclusion that exposures to metals, as usually occurs in polluted coastal areas, may affect sea urchin gametogenesis, thus supporting the hypothesis that parental exposure to environmental stressors affects the phenotype of the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Di Natale
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Carmelo Bennici
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Girolama Biondo
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Masullo
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Calogera Monastero
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Marcello Tagliavia
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Marco Torri
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Maria Antonietta Ragusa
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council-Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
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9
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Nicosia A, Mikov A, Cammarata M, Colombo P, Andreev Y, Kozlov S, Cuttitta A. The Anemonia viridis Venom: Coupling Biochemical Purification and RNA-Seq for Translational Research. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:E407. [PMID: 30366463 PMCID: PMC6266578 DOI: 10.3390/md16110407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Blue biotechnologies implement marine bio-resources for addressing practical concerns. The isolation of biologically active molecules from marine animals is one of the main ways this field develops. Strikingly, cnidaria are considered as sustainable resources for this purpose, as they possess unique cells for attack and protection, producing an articulated cocktail of bioactive substances. The Mediterranean sea anemone Anemonia viridis has been studied extensively for years. In this short review, we summarize advances in bioprospecting of the A. viridis toxin arsenal. A. viridis RNA datasets and toxin data mining approaches are briefly described. Analysis reveals the major pool of neurotoxins of A. viridis, which are particularly active on sodium and potassium channels. This review therefore integrates progress in both RNA-Seq based and biochemical-based bioprospecting of A. viridis toxins for biotechnological exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council-Institute for the Study of Anthropogenic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Capo Granitola, Via del mare, Campobello di Mazara (TP), 91021 Sicily, Italy.
| | - Alexander Mikov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, GSP-7, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Matteo Cammarata
- Department of Earth and Marine Sciences, University of Palermo, 90100 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Istituto di Biomedicina e di Immunologia Molecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Yaroslav Andreev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, GSP-7, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Sergey Kozlov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, GSP-7, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya, 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council-Institute for the Study of Anthropogenic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Capo Granitola, Via del mare, Campobello di Mazara (TP), 91021 Sicily, Italy.
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10
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Eisen B, Ben Jehuda R, Cuttitta A, Mekies L, Shemer Y, Reiter I, Monserrat L, Gherghiceanu M, Arad M, Michele D, Binah O. 216Functional properties of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes generated from Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- B Eisen
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - R Ben Jehuda
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - A Cuttitta
- University of Michigan, Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - L Mekies
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Y Shemer
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - I Reiter
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - M Gherghiceanu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - M Arad
- Sheba Medical Center, Leviev Heart Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - D Michele
- University of Michigan, Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Ann Arbor, United States of America
| | - O Binah
- Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
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11
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Nicosia A, Bennici C, Biondo G, Costa S, Di Natale M, Masullo T, Monastero C, Ragusa MA, Tagliavia M, Cuttitta A. Characterization of Translationally Controlled Tumour Protein from the Sea Anemone Anemonia viridis and Transcriptome Wide Identification of Cnidarian Homologues. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9010030. [PMID: 29324689 PMCID: PMC5793182 DOI: 10.3390/genes9010030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene family encoding translationally controlled tumour protein (TCTP) is defined as highly conserved among organisms; however, there is limited knowledge of non-bilateria. In this study, the first TCTP homologue from anthozoan was characterised in the Mediterranean Sea anemone, Anemonia viridis. The release of the genome sequence of Acropora digitifera, Exaiptasia pallida, Nematostella vectensis and Hydra vulgaris enabled a comprehensive study of the molecular evolution of TCTP family among cnidarians. A comparison among TCTP members from Cnidaria and Bilateria showed conserved intron exon organization, evolutionary conserved TCTP signatures and 3D protein structure. The pattern of mRNA expression profile was also defined in A. viridis. These analyses revealed a constitutive mRNA expression especially in tissues with active proliferation. Additionally, the transcriptional profile of A. viridis TCTP (AvTCTP) after challenges with different abiotic/biotic stresses showed induction by extreme temperatures, heavy metals exposure and immune stimulation. These results suggest the involvement of AvTCTP in the sea anemone defensome taking part in environmental stress and immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Carmelo Bennici
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Girolama Biondo
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Marilena Di Natale
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Masullo
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Calogera Monastero
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Maria Antonietta Ragusa
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Marcello Tagliavia
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via del mare, 91021 Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
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12
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Cuttitta A, Ragusa MA, Costa S, Bennici C, Colombo P, Mazzola S, Gianguzza F, Nicosia A. Evolutionary conserved mechanisms pervade structure and transcriptional modulation of allograft inflammatory factor-1 from sea anemone Anemonia viridis. Fish Shellfish Immunol 2017; 67:86-94. [PMID: 28579525 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2017.05.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Gene family encoding allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1) is well conserved among organisms; however, there is limited knowledge in lower organisms. In this study, the first AIF-1 homologue from cnidarians was identified and characterised in the sea anemone Anemonia viridis. The full-length cDNA of AvAIF-1 was of 913 bp with a 5' -untranslated region (UTR) of 148 bp, a 3'-UTR of 315 and an open reading frame (ORF) of 450 bp encoding a polypeptide with149 amino acid residues and predicted molecular weight of about 17 kDa. The predicted protein possesses evolutionary conserved EF hand Ca2+ binding motifs, post-transcriptional modification sites and a 3D structure which can be superimposed with human members of AIF-1 family. The AvAIF-1 transcript was constitutively expressed in all tested tissues of unchallenged sea anemone, suggesting that AvAIF-1 could serve as a general protective factor under normal physiological conditions. Moreover, we profiled the transcriptional activation of AvAIF-1 after challenges with different abiotic/biotic stresses showing induction by warming conditions, heavy metals exposure and immune stimulation. Thus, mechanisms associated to inflammation and immune challenges up-regulated AvAIF-1 mRNA levels. Our results suggest its involvement in the inflammatory processes and immune response of A. viridis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via mare del Sud, 3, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
| | - Maria Antonietta Ragusa
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Carmelo Bennici
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via mare del Sud, 3, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy
| | - Paolo Colombo
- Istituto di Biomedicina e di Immunologia Molecolare - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa, 153, 90146, Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via mare del Sud, 3, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gianguzza
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Via mare del Sud, 3, 91021, Torretta Granitola (TP), Sicily, Italy.
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13
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Ragusa MA, Costa S, Cuttitta A, Gianguzza F, Nicosia A. Coexposure to sulfamethoxazole and cadmium impairs development and attenuates transcriptional response in sea urchin embryo. Chemosphere 2017; 180:275-284. [PMID: 28411544 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Among sulfonamides, sulfamethoxazole represents one of the most widely employed. A considerable amount of sulfamethoxazole is introduced into the marine environment after utilization in aquaculture. The cytotoxicity of sulfamethoxazole relies mainly on arylhydroxylamine metabolites and it is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species. Cadmium represents a metal largely employed in several anthropic activities and it is toxic for all living organisms even at low concentrations. Since it is not degraded, cadmium irreversibly accumulates into cells. In order to understand the mechanisms of response to changes in the chemical environment, we investigated by light microscopy observations and RT-qPCR assays the impact of sulfamethoxazole and cadmium in P. lividus sea urchin embryos. During development, embryos were exposed to sulfamethoxazole amount comparable to that usually used in aquaculture procedures and/or sublethal levels of cadmium chloride. Impairment of development and biomarkers for inflammation, detoxification, metal scavenging and cell death were inspected. Even though treatment with sulfamethoxazole apparently did not affect development, it stimulated a remarkable molecular response to oxidative stress. Moreover, combined exposure seriously compromised development and the defense mechanisms to cadmium were blocked. This study leads to the conclusion that coexposure to sulfamethoxazole and cadmium induces neutralizing effects on sea urchin embryos. Thus, in marine areas nearby aquaculture farms, where sulfamethoxazole discharge represents an important environmental contaminant, cadmium occurrence may alter population dynamics of P. lividus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Ragusa
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Gianguzza
- Department of Biological, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
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14
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Musco M, Cuttitta A, Bicchi E, Quinci EM, Sprovieri M, Tranchida G, Giaramita L, Traina A, Salvagio Manta D, Gherardi S, Mercurio P, Siragusa A, Mazzola S. Benthic Foraminifera as bio-indicators of anthropogenic impacts in coastal environments: Acqua dei Corsari area case study (Palermo, Italy). Mar Pollut Bull 2017; 117:75-87. [PMID: 28153497 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.01.032] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates living benthic foraminiferal assemblages as bio-indicators of anthropogenic activities in a coastal area within the Gulf of Palermo (Sicily, Italy), affected by industrial and urban activities, and evaluates the environmental quality through the calibration of a Tolerant Species index (%TSstd). Sediments from 6 stations were sampled along a bathymetric transect from the coast to offshore. Sediment grain size, TOC, major, minor and trace elements and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were compared to benthic foraminiferal assemblages and species at each station. Diversity and density of benthic foraminiferal assemblages were not affected by the presence of pollutants, while tolerant species increased with organic (TOC and PAHs) or chemical (As and Pb) concentrations. Moreover, the calibration of the %TSstd formula to >125μm foraminiferal assemblage, gives a detailed description of environmental quality along the transect, representing a good and sensitive tool to evaluate marine coastal environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Musco
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Erica Bicchi
- Esaip La Salle, 18 Rue du 8 Mai 1945, CS 80022, 49180 St Barthélemy d'Anjou Cedex, France; LPG-BIAF-UMR6112, Université d'Angers, France.
| | - Enza Maria Quinci
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Mario Sprovieri
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Tranchida
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Luigi Giaramita
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Anna Traina
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Daniela Salvagio Manta
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Capo Granitola, 3 Via del Mare, 91021, Torretta Granitola, Campobello di Mazara, Tp, Italy.
| | - Serena Gherardi
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Naples, Calata Porta di Massa, 80133 Napoli, Italy.
| | | | | | - Salvatore Mazzola
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Section of Naples, Calata Porta di Massa, 80133 Napoli, Italy.
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15
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Nicosia A, Costa S, Tagliavia M, Maggio T, Salamone M, Adamo G, Ragusa MA, Bennici C, Masullo T, Mazzola S, Gianguzza F, Cuttitta A. The nucleic acid-binding protein PcCNBP is transcriptionally regulated during the immune response in red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii. Cell Stress Chaperones 2016; 21:535-46. [PMID: 26939892 PMCID: PMC4837176 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-016-0681-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene family encoding cellular nucleic acid binding proteins (CNBP) is well conserved among vertebrates; however, there is limited knowledge in lower organisms. In this study, a CNBP homolog from the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii was characterised. The full-length cDNA of PcCNBP was of 1257 bp with a 5'-untranslated region (UTR) of 63 bp and a 3'-UTR of 331 bp with a poly (A) tail, and an open-reading frame (ORF) of 864 bp encoding a polypeptide of 287 amino acids with the predicted molecular weight of about 33 kDa. The predicted protein possesses 7 tandem repeats of 14 amino acids containing the CCHC zinc finger consensus sequence, two RGG-rich single-stranded RNA-binding domain and a nuclear localization signal, strongly suggesting that PcCNBP was a homolog of vertebrate CNBP. The PcCNBP transcript was constitutively expressed in all tested tissues of unchallenged crayfish, including hepatopancreas, gill, eyestalk, haemocytes, intestine, stomach and cuticle with highest expression in haemocytes, intestine, gills and hepatopancreas. The mRNA expression of PcCNBP in haemocytes was modulated at transcriptional level by different immune challenges, suggesting its involvement in the immune response of P. clarkii during both bacteria and viruses infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Nicosia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Marcello Tagliavia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Teresa Maggio
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research-ISPRA, Palermo, 90143, Italy
| | - Monica Salamone
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Giorgia Adamo
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Ragusa
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Carmelo Bennici
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Tiziana Masullo
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gianguzza
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
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Falco F, Barra M, Cammarata M, Cuttitta A, Jia S, Bonanno A, Mazzola S, Wu G. Amino acid composition in eyes from zebrafish (Danio rerio) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) at the larval stage. SpringerPlus 2016; 5:519. [PMID: 27186483 PMCID: PMC4844574 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-2137-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
A comparative study was performed to identify differences in the amino acid composition of the eyes from zebrafish (Danio rerio) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) larvae and their link to the environmental adaption of the species. Amino acids in the acidic hydrolysates of eyes from 11 zebrafish and 12 sardine were determined with the use of high-performance liquid chromatography involving precolumn derivatization with ortho-phthalaldehyde. Differences in the content of most amino acids were detected between zebrafish and sardine. These amino acids were aspartate, glutamate, serine, glycine, threonine, arginine, methionine, valine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, leucine and lysine. Of particular note, the percentage of methionine in zebrafish eyes was much higher than that in sardine, whereas the opposite was observed for glutamate and glycine. These results indicate that zebrafish and sardine likely have experienced differences in adaptation to environmental changes. We suggest that the amino acid composition of eyes represents a powerful tool to discriminate between species characterized by different lifestyle and inhabiting different environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Falco
- Detached Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Institute for Coastal and Marine Environment (IAMC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Capo Granitola (TP), Italy ; Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843 USA
| | - Marco Barra
- Detached Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Institute for Coastal and Marine Environment (IAMC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Capo Granitola (TP), Italy
| | - Matteo Cammarata
- Marine Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Chemical, Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Detached Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Institute for Coastal and Marine Environment (IAMC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Capo Granitola (TP), Italy
| | - Sichao Jia
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843 USA
| | - Angelo Bonanno
- Detached Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Institute for Coastal and Marine Environment (IAMC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Capo Granitola (TP), Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- Detached Units of Capo Granitola (TP) and Naples, Institute for Coastal and Marine Environment (IAMC), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Capo Granitola (TP), Italy
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843 USA
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17
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Nicosia A, Maggio T, Costa S, Salamone M, Tagliavia M, Mazzola S, Gianguzza F, Cuttitta A. Maintenance of a Protein Structure in the Dynamic Evolution of TIMPs over 600 Million Years. Genome Biol Evol 2016; 8:1056-71. [PMID: 26957029 PMCID: PMC4860685 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evw052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Deciphering the events leading to protein evolution represents a challenge, especially for protein families showing complex evolutionary history. Among them, TIMPs represent an ancient eukaryotic protein family widely distributed in the animal kingdom. They are known to control the turnover of the extracellular matrix and are considered to arise early during metazoan evolution, arguably tuning essential features of tissue and epithelial organization. To probe the structure and molecular evolution of TIMPs within metazoans, we report the mining and structural characterization of a large data set of TIMPs over approximately 600 Myr. The TIMPs repertoire was explored starting from the Cnidaria phylum, coeval with the origins of connective tissue, to great apes and humans. Despite dramatic sequence differences compared with highest metazoans, the ancestral proteins displayed the canonical TIMP fold. Only small structural changes, represented by an α-helix located in the N-domain, have occurred over the evolution. Both the occurrence of such secondary structure elements and the relative solvent accessibility of the corresponding residues in the three-dimensional structures raises the possibility that these sites represent unconserved element prone to accept variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Nicosia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Teresa Maggio
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research-ISPRA, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Monica Salamone
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Marcello Tagliavia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gianguzza
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
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18
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Tagliavia M, Nicosia A, Salamone M, Biondo G, Bennici CD, Mazzola S, Cuttitta A. Development of a fast DNA extraction method for sea food and marine species identification. Food Chem 2016; 203:375-378. [PMID: 26948627 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.02.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 10/07/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The authentication of food components is one of the key issues in food safety. Similarly taxonomy, population and conservation genetics as well as food web structure analysis, also rely on genetic analyses including the DNA barcoding technology. In this scenario we developed a fast DNA extraction method without any purification step from fresh and processed seafood, suitable for any PCR analysis. The protocol allows the fast DNA amplification from any sample, including fresh, stored and processed seafood and from any waste of industrial fish processing, independently of the sample storage method. Therefore, this procedure is particularly suitable for the fast processing of samples and to carry out investigations for the authentication of seafood by means of DNA analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Tagliavia
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Monica Salamone
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Girolama Biondo
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Carmelo Daniele Bennici
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- National Research Council - Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, UOS Capo Granitola, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, Via del Faro n. 3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Sicily, Italy.
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Zaccone R, Caruso G, Leonardi M, Maimone G, Monticelli LS, Azzaro M, Cuttitta A, Patti B, La Ferla R. Seasonal changes on microbial metabolism and biomass in the euphotic layer of Sicilian Channel. Mar Environ Res 2015; 112:20-32. [PMID: 26231593 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
As a part of a wider project on fisheries ecology, several biological and environmental parameters were monitored during two oceanographic cruises (BANSIC 2012 and NOVESAR 2013) in the Sicily Channel, which connects the Western and Eastern Mediterranean basins. The prokaryotic abundances and biomass as well as hydrolysis rates on organic matter were investigated in the euphotic layer of a retention area for fish larval stages including anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus, Linnaeus, 1758) with the aim to investigate the different biogeochemical signatures in two seasonal conditions. The environmental parameters, particulate organic carbon and nitrogen together with heterotrophic production were also measured. Results showed significant increases for most of the studied parameters with increasing temperature during summer. This had effects on the Carbon cycle and recycling of nutrients; in fact total prokaryotic abundance and biomass, as well as carbon hydrolyzed by two enzymes (Leucine aminopeptidase and β-glucosidase), increased significantly during summer. Conversely Alkaline phosphatase activity, Chlorophyll concentration and Oxygen increased during winter. The same environmental parameters affected also the presence of fish eggs. Moreover high percentages of free enzymes (i.e., enzymes not associated with cells) were measured, accounting for percentages variable from 12 to 95 % of the total enzymatic activity, with values generally higher in summer than in winter. In this oligotrophic environment, the prokaryotic biomass was supported by the C hydrolyzed by enzymatic activities. The ratio between the hydrolyzed C and prokaryotic biomass was higher in winter than in summer, indicating that alkaline phosphatase activity contribute to an efficient incorporation of C into biomass in winter.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Zaccone
- CNR-IAMC, Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy.
| | - G Caruso
- CNR-IAMC, Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - M Leonardi
- CNR-IAMC, Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - G Maimone
- CNR-IAMC, Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | | | - M Azzaro
- CNR-IAMC, Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - A Cuttitta
- CNR-IAMC, Via del Mare, 3, 91021 Capo Granitola, TP, Italy
| | - B Patti
- CNR-IAMC, Via del Mare, 3, 91021 Capo Granitola, TP, Italy
| | - R La Ferla
- CNR-IAMC, Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy
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20
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Masullo T, Armata N, Pendolino F, Colombo P, Celso FL, Mazzola S, Cuttitta A. Low-Cost Synthesis of Smart Biocompatible Graphene Oxide Reduced Species by Means of GFP. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2015; 178:462-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s12010-015-1887-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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21
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Salamone M, Nicosia A, Bennici C, Quatrini P, Catania V, Mazzola S, Ghersi G, Cuttitta A. Comprehensive Analysis of a Vibrio parahaemolyticus Strain Extracellular Serine Protease VpSP37. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126349. [PMID: 26162075 PMCID: PMC4498684 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteases play an important role in the field of tissue dissociation combined with regenerative medicine. During the years new sources of proteolytic enzymes have been studied including proteases from different marine organisms both eukaryotic and prokaryotic. Herein we have purified a secreted component of an isolate of Vibrio parahaemolyticus, with electrophoretic mobilities corresponding to 36 kDa, belonging to the serine proteases family. Sequencing of the N-terminus enabled the in silico identification of the whole primary structure consisting of 345 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 37.4 KDa. The purified enzyme, named VpSP37, contains a Serine protease domain between residues 35 and 276 and a canonical Trypsin/Chimotrypsin 3D structure. Functional assays were performed to evaluate protease activity of purified enzyme. Additionally the performance of VpSP37 was evaluated in tissue dissociations experiments and the use of such enzyme as a component of enzyme blend for tissue dissociation procedures is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Salamone
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola 91021, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola 91021, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Carmelo Bennici
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola 91021, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Paola Quatrini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF),Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, edificio 16, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Valentina Catania
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF),Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, edificio 16, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Calata porta di Massa, 80133, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giulio Ghersi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF),Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, edificio 16, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
- National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Calata porta di Massa, 80133, Napoli, Italy
- ABIEL S.r.l., Via del Mare 3, Torretta Granitola 91021, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola 91021, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF),Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, edificio 16, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
- National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Calata porta di Massa, 80133, Napoli, Italy
- ABIEL S.r.l., Via del Mare 3, Torretta Granitola 91021, Trapani, Sicily, Italy
- * E-mail:
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22
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Puncher GN, Arrizabalaga H, Alemany F, Cariani A, Oray IK, Karakulak FS, Basilone G, Cuttitta A, Mazzola S, Tinti F. Molecular Identification of Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus, Scombridae) Larvae and Development of a DNA Character-Based Identification Key for Mediterranean Scombrids. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130407. [PMID: 26147931 PMCID: PMC4493144 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Atlantic bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus, is a commercially important species that has been severely over-exploited in the recent past. Although the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean stock is now showing signs of recovery, its current status remains very uncertain and as a consequence their recovery is dependent upon severe management informed by rigorous scientific research. Monitoring of early life history stages can inform decision makers about the health of the species based upon recruitment and survival rates. Misidentification of fish larvae and eggs can lead to inaccurate estimates of stock biomass and productivity which can trigger demands for increased quotas and unsound management conclusions. Herein we used a molecular approach employing mitochondrial and nuclear genes (CO1 and ITS1, respectively) to identify larvae (n = 188) collected from three spawning areas in the Mediterranean Sea by different institutions working with a regional fisheries management organization. Several techniques were used to analyze the genetic sequences (sequence alignments using search algorithms, neighbour joining trees, and a genetic character-based identification key) and an extensive comparison of the results is presented. During this process various inaccuracies in related publications and online databases were uncovered. Our results reveal important differences in the accuracy of the taxonomic identifications carried out by different ichthyoplanktologists following morphology-based methods. While less than half of larvae provided were bluefin tuna, other dominant taxa were bullet tuna (Auxis rochei), albacore (Thunnus alalunga) and little tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus). We advocate an expansion of expertise for a new generation of morphology-based taxonomists, increased dialogue between morphology-based and molecular taxonomists and increased scrutiny of public sequence databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Neils Puncher
- Dept. of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences / Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics of Marine Resources and Environment (GenoDREAM), University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Haritz Arrizabalaga
- AZTI Tecnalia, Marine Research Division, Herrera Kaia, Pasaia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
| | - Francisco Alemany
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares, Palma, Spain
| | - Alessia Cariani
- Dept. of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences / Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics of Marine Resources and Environment (GenoDREAM), University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Isik K. Oray
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Fisheries, Laleli, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Gualtiero Basilone
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Fausto Tinti
- Dept. of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences / Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics of Marine Resources and Environment (GenoDREAM), University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
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Traina A, Oliveri E, Salvagio Manta D, Barra M, Mazzola S, Cuttitta A. Metals content in otoliths of Dicentrarchus labrax from two fish farms of Sicily. Environ Monit Assess 2015; 187:360. [PMID: 25980727 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-015-4434-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Otoliths of cultured sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) from two different fish farms of Sicily were collected and analyzed by using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Metal content (Ba, Cd, Fe, Mg, Mn, Sr, and Zn) was measured in order to test the potential use of biogenic carbonates as proxies of dissimilar environmental conditions since the fish farms are implanted in opposite coastal marine areas (Gulf of Castellammare and Gulf of Gela) characterized by different oceanographic features and human activities. Cluster analysis discriminates samples as different groups on the basis of metal content. Results show that concentrations of Sr in the otoliths have a similar range of distribution and not significantly different between the two farms. Otherwise, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Cd show higher concentrations in otoliths collected from fish reared in the farm in the southern coast (Gulf of Gela), an area subject to a great anthropogenic pressure. Zn is the only element with higher values in the otoliths from the farm in the northern coast (Gulf of Trappeto) probably due to industrial effluent. In this work, obtained data confirm the high potential of trace elements measurements in these biogenic carbonates as proxies of different environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Traina
- Institute for Coastal and Marine Environment (IAMC)-CNR, Via del Mare, 3, Torretta Granitola, 91021, Campobello di Mazara, TP, Italy
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24
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Nicosia A, Celi M, Vazzana M, Damiano MA, Parrinello N, D'Agostino F, Avellone G, Indelicato S, Mazzola S, Cuttitta A. Profiling the physiological and molecular response to sulfonamidic drug in Procambarus clarkii. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2014; 166:14-23. [PMID: 24999064 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2014.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) is one of the most widely employed sulfonamides. Because of the widespread use of SMZ, a considerable amount is indeed expected to be introduced into the environment. The cytotoxicity of SMZ relies mainly on arylhydroxylamine metabolites (S-NOH) of SMZ and it is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). There is limited information about the toxic potential of SMZ at the cellular and molecular levels, especially in aquatic and/or non-target organisms. In the present study, the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), being tolerant to extreme environmental conditions and resistant to disease, was used as a model organism to profile the molecular and physiological response to SMZ. Haemolymphatic-immunological parameters such as glucose serum levels and total haemocyte counts were altered; moreover, a significant increase in Hsp70 plasma levels was detected for the first time. Variations at the transcriptional level of proinflammatory genes (cyclooxygenase-1, COX 1, and cyclooxygenase-2, COX 2), antioxidant enzymes (glutathione-S-transferase, GST and manganese superoxide dismutase MnSOD), stress response and Fenton reaction inhibitor genes (heat-shock protein 70 HSP70, metallothionein, MT and ferritin, FT) were evaluated, and alterations in the canonical gene expression patterns emerged. Considering these results, specific mechanisms involved in maintaining physiological homeostasis and adaptation in response to perturbations are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Nicosia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero UOS Capo Granitola, Via del Faro n.3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Monica Celi
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, v.le delle Scienze 90128 Palermo Italy
| | - Mirella Vazzana
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, v.le delle Scienze 90128 Palermo Italy.
| | - Maria Alessandra Damiano
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, v.le delle Scienze 90128 Palermo Italy
| | - Nicolò Parrinello
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, v.le delle Scienze 90128 Palermo Italy
| | - Fabio D'Agostino
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero UOS Capo Granitola, Via del Faro n.3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Avellone
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, v.le delle Scienze 90128 Palermo Italy
| | - Serena Indelicato
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, v.le delle Scienze 90128 Palermo Italy; Centro Grandi Apparecchiature, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero UOS Capo Granitola, Via del Faro n.3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero UOS Capo Granitola, Via del Faro n.3, 91021 Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Italy
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25
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Nicosia A, Maggio T, Mazzola S, Gianguzza F, Cuttitta A, Costa S. Characterization of small HSPs from Anemonia viridis reveals insights into molecular evolution of alpha crystallin genes among cnidarians. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105908. [PMID: 25251681 PMCID: PMC4175457 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene family encoding small Heat-Shock Proteins (sHSPs containing α-crystallin domain) are found both in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms; however, there is limited knowledge of their evolution. In this study, two small HSP genes termed AvHSP28.6 and AvHSP27, both organized in one intron and two exons, were characterised in the Mediterranean snakelocks anemone Anemonia viridis. The release of the genome sequence of Hydra magnipapillata and Nematostella vectensis enabled a comprehensive study of the molecular evolution of α-crystallin gene family among cnidarians. Most of the H. magnipapillata sHSP genes share the same gene organization described for AvHSP28.6 and AvHSP27, differing from the sHSP genes of N. vectensis which mainly show an intronless architecture. The different genomic organization of sHSPs, the phylogenetic analyses based on protein sequences, and the relationships among Cnidarians, suggest that the A.viridis sHSPs represent the common ancestor from which H. magnipapillata genes directly evolved through segmental genome duplication. Additionally retroposition events may be considered responsible for the divergence of sHSP genes of N. vectensis from A. viridis. Analyses of transcriptional expression profile showed that AvHSP28.6 was constitutively expressed among different tissues from both ectodermal and endodermal layers of the adult sea anemones, under normal physiological conditions and also under different stress condition. Specifically, we profiled the transcriptional activation of AvHSP28.6 after challenges with different abiotic/biotic stresses showing induction by extreme temperatures, heavy metals exposure and immune stimulation. Conversely, no AvHSP27 transcript was detected in such dissected tissues, in adult whole body cDNA library or under stress conditions. Hence, the involvement of AvHSP28.6 gene in the sea anemone defensome is strongly suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Nicosia
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Teresa Maggio
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research-ISPRA, Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mazzola
- National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR), Calata Porta di Massa, Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gianguzza
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Angela Cuttitta
- Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Biotechnology, National Research Council-Institute for Marine and Coastal Environment (IAMC-CNR) Detached Unit of Capo Granitola, Torretta Granitola, Trapani, Italy
| | - Salvatore Costa
- Dipartimento Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Masullo T, Puccio R, Di Pierro M, Tagliavia M, Censi P, Vetri V, Militello V, Cuttitta A, Colombo P. Development of a Biosensor for Copper Detection in Aqueous Solutions Using an Anemonia sulcata Recombinant GFP. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2013; 172:2175-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s12010-013-0669-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 12/01/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Censi P, Randazzo LA, D'Angelo S, Saiano F, Zuddas P, Mazzola S, Cuttitta A. Relationship between lanthanide contents in aquatic turtles and environmental exposures. Chemosphere 2013; 91:1130-1135. [PMID: 23411091 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2013.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 01/02/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Trace elements released in the environment during agricultural practices can be incorporated and accumulated in biological fluids and tissues of living organisms. The assessment of these exposures were carried out investigating lanthanide distributions in blood and exoskeleton samples collected from Emys trinacris turtle specimens coming from sites with anthropogenic discharge in western and south Sicily, along migration paths of many bird species from Africa to Europe. The data show a significant (Rxy=0.72; Rxy>0.67; α=0.025) linear relationship between the size of turtle specimens and the lanthanide contents in blood lower than 0.4 μg L(-1) whereas this relationship disappears in blood with higher lanthanide contents. Comparative evaluations of normalised concentrations show that lanthanides fractionate between blood and exoskeleton inducing antithetical lanthanide patterns therein. These features are more evident in specimens with high lanthanide contents in blood, suggesting that lanthanide accumulations in the exoskeleton can represent the physiological response of E. trinacris to environmental and the further confirmation of relationship occurring between the environmental and the biological fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Censi
- D.I.S.T.E.M. Department, Università di Palermo, via Archirafi, 36 90123 Palermo, Italy.
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Celi M, Filiciotto F, Parrinello D, Buscaino G, Damiano MA, Cuttitta A, D'Angelo S, Mazzola S, Vazzana M. Physiological and agonistic behavioural response of Procambarus clarkii to an acoustic stimulus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 216:709-18. [PMID: 23125346 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.078865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the effects of an acoustic stimulus on the haemolymph and agonistic behaviour of the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. The experiment was conducted in a tank equipped with a video recording system using six groups (three control and three test groups) of five adult crayfish (30 specimens in total). After 1 h of habituation, the behaviour of the crayfish was monitored for 2 h. During the second hour, the animals in the test groups were exposed to a linear sweep (frequency range 0.1-25 kHz; peak amplitude 148 dB(rms) re. 1 μPa at 12 kHz) acoustic stimulus for 30 min. Exposure to the noise produced significant variations in haemato-immunological parameters as well as a reduction in agonistic behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Celi
- Laboratory of Marine Immunobiology, Department of Environmental Biology and Biodiversity, Division of Animal Biology and Anthropology, University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, Palermo, Italy
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29
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Censi P, Zuddas P, Randazzo LA, Tamburo E, Speziale S, Cuttitta A, Punturo R, Aricò P, Santagata R. Source and nature of inhaled atmospheric dust from trace element analyses of human bronchial fluids. Environ Sci Technol 2011; 45:6262-6267. [PMID: 21692480 DOI: 10.1021/es200539p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Rapid volcanic eruptions quickly ejecting large amounts of dust provoke the accumulation of heavy metals in people living in surrounding areas. Analyses of bronchoalveolar lavage samples (BAL) collected from people exposed to the paroxysmal 2001 Etna eruption revealed a strong enrichment of many toxic heavy metals. Comparing the BAL to the dust composition of southeastern Sicily, we found that only V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, and U enrichment could be related to the volcanic event, whereas Ni, Cu, Cd, and Pb contents come from the dissolution of particles of anthropogenic origin. Furthermore, the nature of these inhaled anthropogenic particles was revealed by anomalous La and partially Ce concentrations in BAL that were consistent with a mixture of road dust and petroleum refinery emissions. Our results indicate that trace element distribution in BAL is a suitable tracer of human exposure to different sources of inhaled atmospheric particulates, allowing investigations into the origin of source materials inhaled by people subjected to atmospheric fallout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Censi
- Dipartimento DiSTeM, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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Censi P, Tamburo E, Speziale S, Zuddas P, Randazzo LA, Punturo R, Cuttitta A, Aricò P. Yttrium and lanthanides in human lung fluids, probing the exposure to atmospheric fallout. J Hazard Mater 2011; 186:1103-1110. [PMID: 21168970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2010.11.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Revised: 11/26/2010] [Accepted: 11/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Inhalation of airborne particles can produce crystallization of phosphatic microcrysts in intraaveolar areas of lungs, sometimes degenerating into pulmonary fibrosis. Results of this study indicate that these pathologies are induced by interactions between lung fluids and inhaled atmospheric dust in people exposed to volcanic dust ejected from Mount Etna in 2001. Here, the lung solid-liquid interaction is evaluated by the distribution of yttrium and lanthanides (YLn) in fluid bronchoalveolar lavages on selected individuals according the classical geochemical approaches. We found that shale-normalised patterns of yttrium and lanthanides have a 'V shaped' feature corresponding to the depletion of elements from Nd to Tb when compared to the variable enrichments of heavy lanthanides, Y, La and Ce. These features and concurrent thermodynamic simulations suggest that phosphate precipitation can occur in lungs due to interactions between volcanic particles and fluids. We propose that patterns of yttrium and lanthanides can represent a viable explanation of some pathology observed in patients after prolonged exposure to atmospheric fallout and are suitable to become a diagnostic parameter of chemical environmental stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Censi
- Dipartimento C.F.T.A., Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 36 90123-Palermo, Italy.
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Salamone M, Seidita G, Cuttitta A, Rigogliuso S, Mazzola S, Bertuzzi F, Ghersi G. A new method to value efficiency of enzyme blends for pancreatic tissue digestion. Transplant Proc 2011; 42:2043-8. [PMID: 20692403 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2010.05.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Islet transplantation, since the 1990s, has been an example of human cell therapy. Nevertheless, the islet isolation procedure is not completely standardized; in fact, >50% of islet procedures do not eventuate in transplantation due both to the variability of a donor's pancreas and to the unpredictable efficiency of an enzymatic blend. The enzymes used in pancreas isolation to digest several substrates are extracted from Clostridium histolyticum. In particular, they have strong collagenolytic activity compared with vertebrate collagenases. However, several impediments persist in human islet isolation success, probably owing to the variable composition and concentration of collagenases employed during the digestion phase. For islet isolation processes, neutral proteases play important roles. However, they should be considered to be double-edged swords, contributing to tissue dissociation but, sometimes, decreasing islet yield through fragmentation, breakdown, and inactivation. Protease activities cannot be preciously adjusted in a narrow range, there is no approach to determine the optimal dosage and composition of enzymes for extraction of human islets from the pancreas. At this time, available data on commercial enzymatic activity are not sufficient to predict their efficiency for pancreas digestion; consequently, it is difficult to select enzyme batches. For these reasons, we sought to generate an innovative evaluation assay to select enzymes useful for isolation procedures of pancreatic islets.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Salamone
- IAMC-CNR, U.O. Capo Granitola, Mazara del Vallo, Trapani, Italy.
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32
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Censi P, Bonomo S, Cuttitta A, Mazzola S, Patti B, Bonanno A, Basitone G, Randazzo LA, Raso M. [Marine environmental status in the Strait of Sicily close to the Gela reclamation site]. Epidemiol Prev 2009; 33:51-56. [PMID: 19776469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Censi
- Dipartimento Chimica e fisica della terra ed applicazioni alle georisorse ed all'ambiente, Università Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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Scaramuzzi G, Murgo RM, Cuttitta A, Ciuffreda L. [Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast. Our experience and a proposal of a therapeutic algorithm for a rare tumor]. G Chir 2008; 29:203-206. [PMID: 18507954] [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: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast is a very rare tumor. In this paper we describe our experience in 10 cases of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast, and an integrated diagnostic-therapeutic proposal for this tumor. Since no positive association has been shown between neuroendocrine differentiation and tumor size, staging, grading, survival and therefore prognosis, we consider that surgical therapy for neuroendocrine tumors of the breast should be the same as that performed in common invasive histotypes. Due to the presence of specific cellular receptors in neuroendocrine tumors of the breast, somatostatin has been claimed as a useful tool both for diagnostic (Octreoscan) and therapy (for metastatic disease). As for therapy, synthetic analogs show advantages versus native somatostatin, because of a longer half-life, and data from literature report encouraging results obtained by using radiolabelled somatostatin analogs. One of these is 90 Y-Dotatoc; we have already used it in patients with neuroendocrine tumors of the lung. Our algorithm for neuroendocrine tumors of the breast includes diagnostic scintigraphy with Octreoscan and receptor-mediated radiolabelled therapy with 90 Y-Dotatoc in patients with confirmed scintigraphic expression of somatostatin receptors in tumoral tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Scaramuzzi
- Ospedale IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Abstract
Whereas laparoscopic cholecystectomy represents the gold standard treatment for gallstones, there is no universal consensus on the optimal treatment of common bile duct (CBD) stones. The options available are various: preoperative or postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and sphincterotomy, laparoscopic transcystic CBD exploration, laparoscopic choledochotomy, and traditional open choledochotomy. A few reports describe intraoperative endoscopic clearance of the CBD. The choice of one of these methods depends on the timing of the detection of CBD stones with regard to the cholecystectomy, the expertise of the surgeon, the technology available, and the wishes of the patient. In the surgical department of the "Ospedale Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza," a large referral medical center in Italy, we perform an intraoperative endoscopic sphincterotomy in the presence of findings suspicious for CBD stones in the course of a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The procedure is readily available thanks to the nearby presence of a skilled endoscopist and is greatly aided by the insertion of a transcystic guidewire, which makes the papilla easily identifiable by the endoscope for the spincterotomy. We have used the technique successfully in 43 of 45 patients over a 7-year period in an overall caseload of 1775 laparoscopic cholecystectomies, with no complications, minimal added operative time, and no added postoperative hospital stay. The technique allows us to completely and definitively manage CBD stones detected intraoperatively at the time of the performance of the laparoscopic cholecystectomy with no added discomfort to the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Tatulli
- Chirurgia Generale, Ospedale I.R.C.C.S. Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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35
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Donataccio M, De Bonis A, Tatulli F, Cuttitta A. Haemostatic treatment of a bleeding hepatocarcinoma by polypropylene mesh wrapping in a cirrhotic patient. Chir Ital 2000; 52:699-702. [PMID: 11200006] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous rupture of hepatocarcinoma (HCC) in a cirrhotic patient is a serious complication with a high incidence of mortality. The pathogenesis of this complication is unknown. Several hypotheses have been proposed in the literature worldwide. The diagnosis, in the absence of specific symptoms, is made by ultrasound, sometimes followed by a CT scan, and finally by exploratory paracentesis. An angiogram is performed to locate the site of the bleeding and possibly allow transcatheter arterial chemo-embolisation. Therapeutic options include one-stage or delayed resection, packing for sub-diaphragmatic bleeding HCC's, and hepatic artery ligation. Suture ligation of the bleeding source is usually impossible due to the friability of the tumor. No sizeable experience with the use of alcoholisation for haemostasis has been reported to date. We report a case of HCC bleeding from segment VI successfully treated by manual compression and placement of a polypropylene mesh (Biomesh P1, Cousin Biotech).
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Affiliation(s)
- M Donataccio
- Divisione di Chirurgia Generale Ospedale I.R.C.C.S. Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, FG
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Ponte F, Giuffrè G, Cuttitta A. Psychophysical and electrofunctional contrast sensitivity in cataractous patients treated with bendazac-lysine salt. Doc Ophthalmol 1991; 76:285-96. [PMID: 2103531 DOI: 10.1007/bf00142688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [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: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The clinical progression of the cataract may be influenced by drugs which reduce the denaturation of lens proteins. One of the most promising drugs is the bendazac-lysine salt. The drug was used in a double-blind study of a group of patients with initial cortical cataract in order to evaluate the changes in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity by means of a psychophysical and an electrophysiological method. After 6 months of treatment with bendazac the mean values of visual acuity showed a statistically significant increase in respect to baseline values, as well as an improvement of the threshold of contrast for most spatial frequencies. In the eyes treated with placebo there was no statistical difference between the visual acuity at baseline and after the treatment, but an increase of the contrast threshold for many spatial frequencies. The treatment with bendazac, when compared to the administration of placebo, leads to a statistically significant improvement of the contrast threshold and induces a global improvement on the visual conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Ponte
- Istituto di Clinica Oculistica, Università di Palermo, Italy
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