Molecular transduction in receptor-ligand systems by planar electromagnetic fields / Transdução molecular em sistemas receptor-ligante por campos electromagnéticos planares

The coupling of a ligand with a molecular receptor induces a signal that travels through the receptor, reaching the internal domain and triggering a response cascade. In previous work on T-cell receptors and their coupling with foreign antigens, we observed the presence of planar molecular patterns able to generate electromagnetic fields within the proteins. These planes showed a coherent (synchronized) behavior, replicating immediately in the intracellular domain that which occurred in the extracellular domain as the ligand was coupled. In the present study, we examined this molecular transduction - the capacity of the coupling signal to penetrate deep inside the receptor molecule and induce a response. We verified the presence of synchronized behavior in diverse receptorligand systems. To appreciate this diversity, we present four biochemically different systems - TCR-peptide, calcium pump-ADP, haemoglobin-oxygen, and gp120-CD4 viral coupling. The confirmation of synchronized molecular transduction in each of these systems suggests that the proposed mechanism would occur in all biochemical receptor-ligand systems.

A ligação de um ligante com um receptor molecular induz um sinal que viaja através do receptor, chegando ao domínio interno e disparando uma cascata de resposta. Em trabalhos anteriores em receptores de células T e sua ligação com antígenos estranhos, observamos a presença de padrões moleculares planares capazes de gerar campos eletromagnéticos dentro das proteínas. Esses planos mostraram um comportamento coerente (sincronizado), replicando, instantaneamente, no domínio intracelular o que ocorreu no domínio extracelular, enquanto o ligante era acoplado. No presente estudo, examinamos essa transdução ­ a capacidade de um sinal de acoplamento de penetrar profundamente a molécula receptora e induzir uma resposta. Verificamos a presença de um comportamento coerente em sistemas diversos de receptor-ligante. Para apreciar essa diversidade, apresentamos quatro sistemas bioquímicos diferentes: TCR-peptídeo, ADP-bomba de cálcio, hemoglobina-oxigênio e gp120-CD4 acoplamento viral. A confirmação de transdução molecular sincronizada em cada um desses sistemas sugere que o mecanismo proposto ocorreria em todos os sistemas bioquímicos receptor-ligante.

Catalysis at gold-ligand interfaces: a frustrated Lewis pair mechanism for selective reduction reaction / Catalise na interface ouro-ligante: pares de Lewis frustrados aplicados em reações de redução seletivas

The interaction of the organic ligands with metal nanoparticle has a very important role for applications in catalysis, as well as other processes involving ligands that can activate or poison the surface of metal nanoparticles. Very little has been studied so far on the role of organic ligands used either in the preparation of nanoparticles for applications in catalysis or addition in the reaction to activate the catalyst. In this thesis, we have studied strategies for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles, their use as components for the preparation of supported catalysts and activation and deactivation processes involving the ligands used as stabilizers or purposely added to the reaction medium or support for stimulate new reactivity and selectivity in reactions of industrial interest, such as hydrogenation. Here, the concept of frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) has been expanded to surface-FLP analogous formed by combining gold nanoparticles (NPs) and Lewis bases, such as amines or phosphines, creating a new channel for the heterolytic cleavage of H2, and thereby performing selective hydrogenation reactions with gold. A first approach to improve the catalytic activity of gold nanoparticles was to analyze the effect of nitrogen-containing bases. The starting inactive gold nanoparticles became highly active for the selective hydrogenation of alkyne into cis-alkenes. The hydrogenation proceeded smoothly and fully selective using H2 as the hydrogen source and under relatively mild conditions (80 °C, 6 bar H2). Our studies also have revealed that the presence of capping ligands blocks the adsorption of the amine to the gold surface, avoiding the FLPs interface and thereby leading to low catalytic activity. When the capping ligands were removed from the catalyst surface and an amine ligand was added, the FLPs interface is recovered and an enhanced catalytic activity was observed. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the successful use of simple organophosphorus ligands to boost the catalytic activity of Au NPs for a range of important reduction reactions, namely, epoxides, N-oxides, sulfoxides, and alkynes. Furthermore, the choice of phosphorus-containing ligands resulted in a decrease in the amount necessary to reach high conversion and selectivity in comparison with our previous study with N-containing ligands. The ligand-to-metal ratio decreased from 100 (amine/Au) to 1 (phosphite/Au). The synthesis of gold nanoparticles supported on N-doped carbon supports was used as an alternative method for the synthesis of a heterogeneous active gold catalyst for selective hydrogenations. The main advantage with respect to previous studies was to avoid the addition of external ligands, in large excess, for the activation of gold surfaces via FLP, making the whole process environmentally and economically attractive

A interação dos ligantes orgânicos com nanopartículas de metal certamente tem um papel muito importante para aplicações em catálise, bem como outros processos envolvendo ligantes que podem ativar ou envenenar a superfície de nanopartículas metálicas. Até agora, muito pouco foi estudado sobre o papel dos ligantes orgânicos utilizados na preparação de nanopartículas para aplicações em catálise ou adição na reação para ativar o catalisador. Nesta tese, foram estudadas estratégias para a síntese de nanopartículas metálicas, seu uso como componentes para a preparação de catalisadores suportados e processos de ativação e desativação envolvendo ligantes empregados como estabilizantes ou propositalmente adicionados ao meio de reação ou suporte para estimular novas reatividades e seletividade em reações de interesse industrial, como reações de hidrogenação. Aqui, o conceito de pares de Lewis frustrados (FLPs) foi expandido para o seu análogo de superfície formado pela combinação de nanopartículas (NPs) de ouro e bases de Lewis, como aminas ou fosfinas, criando um novo canal para a clivagem heterolítica de H2 e, assim, realizando reações seletivas de hidrogenação com ouro. Uma primeira abordagem para melhorar a atividade catalítica das nanopartículas de ouro foi analisar o efeito de bases contendo nitrogênio. As nanopartículas de ouro inicialmente inativas tornaram-se altamente ativas para a hidrogenação seletiva de alquino em cis-alquenos. A hidrogenação prosseguiu foi factível e totalmente seletiva usando H2 como fonte de hidrogênio e sob condições relativamente amenas (80 °C, 6 bar de H2). Nossos estudos também revelaram que a presença de estabilizantes pode bloquear a adsorção da base na superfície do ouro, impedindo a formação da interface FLPs e, portanto, levando a baixa atividade catalítica. Quando os estabilizantes foram removidos da superfície do catalisador e um ligante foi adicionado, o FLPs é formado sendo a atividade catalítica aprimorada. Além disso, demonstramos o uso bem-sucedido de ligantes organofosforados atuando como ativadores de Au NPs em uma série de importantes reações de redução, como, epóxidos, N-óxidos, sulfóxidos e alquinos. Além disso, a escolha do ligante fosforado resultou em uma diminuição na quantidade necessária para alcançar alta conversão mantendo a seletividade inalterada. A relação ligante/metal diminuiu de 100/1 (amina/Au) para 1/1 (fosfito/Au). A síntese de nanopartículas de ouro suportadas em carbono dopado com nitrogênio foi utilizada como método alternativo para a síntese de um catalisador heterogêneo de ouro ativo para hidrogenações seletivas. A principal vantagem em relação aos estudos anteriores foi evitar a adição de ligantes externos, em grande excesso, para a ativação de superfícies de ouro via FLP, tornando todo o processo ambiental e economicamente atraente

Association of serum chemokine ligand 21 levels with asthma control in adults

OBJECTIVES: The chemokine ligand (CCL) 21 regulates the maturation, migration, and function of dendritic cells, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum CCL21 levels and asthma control. METHODS: The serum levels of CCL21 and other inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in patients with asthma (n=44) and healthy controls (n=35) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. IgE levels and eosinophil counts were determined by turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay and fully automatic blood analysis, respectively. The Asthma Control Test (ACT) questionnaire was used, and spirometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) measurements were performed. A multiple unpaired Student's t-test was performed to analyze the differences in CCL21 and interleukin levels between patients with asthma and healthy controls. The correlation of CCL21 levels with disease severity was evaluated using the Pearson's rank correlation test. RESULTS: Serum CCL21 levels were lower in patients with asthma (254.78±95.66 pg/mL) than in healthy controls (382.95±87.77 pg/mL) (p<0.001). Patients with asthma had significantly higher levels of IL-1β (19.74±16.77 vs. 2.63±5.22 pg/mL), IL-6 (7.55±8.65 vs. 2.37±2.47 pg/mL), and tumor necrosis factor-α (12.70±12.03 vs. 4.82±3.97 pg/mL) compared with the controls. CCL21 levels were positively correlated with the ACT score (rs=0.1653, p=0.0062), forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (rs=0.3607, p<0.0001), and FEV1 (rs=0.2753, p=0.0003), and negatively correlated with FENO (rs=0.1060, p=0.0310). CCL21 levels were negatively correlated with serum IgE levels (rs=0.1114, p=0.0268) and eosinophil counts (rs=0.3476, p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Serum CCL21 levels may be a new biomarker for assessing asthma control.

Complexos imínicos de cobre com atividade antiparasitária frente à doença de chagas / Imine copper complexes with antiparasitic activity against Chagas disease

Neste trabalho foram sintetizados e caracterizados três complexos de cobre com ligantes imínicos, com o objetivo de avaliar sua atividade tripanocida. Esses complexos foram caracterizados por diversas técnicas espectroscópicas, como UV-Vis, Infravermelho e EPR, além de análise elementar e espectrometria de massa. Juntamente com outros complexos similares previamente sintetizados pelo nosso grupo, tiveram suas atividades avaliadas frente à forma tripomastigota do parasita T. cruzi, responsável pela fase aguda da doença de Chagas, por ensaios de viabilidade celular, com determinação do valor de seus IC50, concentração em que observamos a morte de 50% da cultura celular, pela metodologia denominada MTT. Todos os complexos mostraram-se eficientes frente a tripomastigotas, apresentando valores de IC50 abaixo de 10 µM, com quatro deles obtendo índice de seletividade maior que 10, fator importante para definir agentes promissores antichagásicos. Complexos selecionados também tiveram sua atividade verificada frente à forma amastigota do parasita, responsável pela fase crônica da doença, utilizando método de imageamento por microscópio de fluorescência e contagem celular. Estudos de inibição da cruzaína, uma cisteíno-protease importante para o metabolismo do parasita foram conduzidos em colaboração com o laboratório do Prof. Wagner Alves de Souza Júdice, da Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes. Quatro dos compostos testados apresentaram atividade inibitória frente a cruzaína, sendo dois de cobre, um de zinco e um ligante livre. Os estudos também permitiram diferenciar os mecanismos de inibição dos compostos, com os complexos de cobre apresentando um mecanismo de inibição clássico e o composto de zinco e o ligante livre apresentando o mecanismo de inibição competitiva parabólica com cooperatividade

In this work, three copper complexes with iminic ligands were synthesized and characterized, with the objective of evaluating their trypanocidal activity. These complexes were characterized by several spectroscopic techniques, such as UV-Vis, Infrared and EPR, in addition to elementary analysis and mass spectrometry. Together with other similar complexes previously synthesized by our group, their activities were evaluated against the trypomastigote form of the parasite T. cruzi, responsible for the acute phase of Chagas disease, by cell viability tests, with determination of the value of their IC50, concentration in that we observed the death of 50% of the cell culture, by the methodology called MTT, all presenting IC50 values below 10 µM, with four of them obtaining a selectivity index greater than 10, important factor for defining promising antichagasic agents. Selected complexes also had their activity verified against the amastigote form of the parasite, responsible for the chronic phase of the disease, using a fluorescence microscope and cell counting imaging method. Inhibition studies of cruzain, a cysteine protease important for the metabolism of the parasite, were conducted in collaboration with the laboratory of Professor Wagner Alves de Souza Júdice at the University of Mogi das Cruzes. Four of the tested compounds showed inhibitory activity against cruzain, two of copper, one of zinc and a free ligand. The studies also allowed to differentiate the mechanisms of inhibition of the compounds, with the copper complexes presenting a classic inhibition mechanism and the zinc compound and the free ligand presenting the competitive parabolic inhibition mechanism with cooperativity

Urine hepcidin, netrin-1, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 levels in multicystic dysplastic kidney / Níveis de hepcidina, netrina-1, lipocalina associada a gelatinase neutrofílica e ligante de quimiocina C-C motif na urina do rim displásico multicístico

ABSTRACT Introduction: Glomerular hyperfiltration may lead to proteinuria and chronic kidney disease in unilateral multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK). We aimed to investigate the urine neutrophil-gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), netrin-1, hepcidin, and C-C motif chemokine ligand-2 (MCP-1/CCL-2) levels in patients with MCDK. Methods: Thirty-two patients and 25 controls were included. The urine hepcidin, netrin-1, NGAL, and MCP-1/CCL-2 levels were determined by ELISA. Results: The patients had higher serum creatinine (Cr) levels, urine albumin, and netrin-1/Cr ratio with lower GFR. There were positive correlations between urine protein/Cr, MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr, and netrin-1 with NGAL (r = 0.397, p = 0.031; r = 0.437, p = 0.041, r = 0.323, p = 0.042, respectively). Urine netrin-1/Cr was positively correlated with MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr (r = 0.356, p = 0.045). There were positive associations between the presence of proteinuria and netrin-1/Cr, MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr, and NGAL/Cr [Odds ratio (OR): 1.423, p = 0.037, OR: 1.553, p = 0.033, OR: 2.112, p = 0.027, respectively)]. ROC curve analysis showed that netrin-1/Cr, MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr, and NGAL/Cr had high predictive values for determining proteinuria p = 0.027, p = 0.041, p = 0.035, respectively). Urine hepcidin/Cr was negatively correlated with tubular phosphorus reabsorption and was positively correlated with urine NGAL/Cr (r = -0.418, p = 0.019; r = 0.682, p = 0.000; respectively). Conclusions: MCP-1/CCL-2 may play a role in the development of proteinuria in MCDK. Netrin-1 may be a protective factor against proteinuria-induced renal injury. Urine hepcidin/Cr may reflect proximal tubule damage in MCDK. Urine NGAL/Cr may be a predictor of tubule damage by proteinuria.

Resumo Introdução: A hiperfiltração glomerular pode causar proteinúria e doença renal crônica no rim displásico multicístico unilateral (RDM). Nosso objetivo foi investigar os níveis de lipocalina associada à gelatinase neutrofílica na urina (NGAL), netrina-1, hepcidina e quimiocina C-C com ligante-2 (MCP-1/CCL-2) em pacientes com RDM. Métodos: Trinta e dois pacientes e 25 controles foram incluídos. Os níveis urinários de hepcidina, netrin-1, NGAL e MCP-1/CCL-2 foram determinados por ELISA. Resultados: Os pacientes apresentaram níveis séricos mais elevados de creatinina (Cr), albumina na urina e relação netrina-1/Cr com menor TFG. Houve correlação positiva entre proteína na urina/Cr, MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr e netrina-1 com NGAL (r = 0,397, p = 0,031; r = 0,437, p = 0,041, r = 0,323, p = 0,042, respectivamente). A netrina-1/Cr na urina foi correlacionada positivamente com MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr (r = 0,356, p = 0,045). Houve associações positivas entre a presença de proteinúria e netrina-1/Cr, MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr e NGAL/Cr [Odds ratio (OR): 1,423, p = 0,037, OR: 1,553, p = 0,033, OR: 2,112, p = 0,027, respectivamente) ]. A análise da curva ROC mostrou que netrina-1/Cr, MCP-1/CCL-2/Cr e NGAL/Cr apresentaram altos valores preditivos para determinar a proteinúria p = 0,027, p = 0,041, p = 0,035, respectivamente). A hepcidina/Cr na urina foi correlacionada negativamente com a reabsorção tubular de fósforo e positivamente com a NGAL/Cr na urina (r = -0,418, p = 0,019; r = 0,682, p = 0,000; respectivamente). Conclusões: MCP-1/CCL-2 pode ter participação no desenvolvimento de proteinúria no RDM. A Netrina-1 pode ser um fator protetor contra lesão renal induzida por proteinúria. Hepcidina/Cr na urina pode refletir danos em túbulos proximais no RDM. O valor de NGAL/Cr urinário pode ser um preditor de danos nos túbulos por proteinúria.

Planejamento e desenvolvimento de ligantes não peptídicos com atividade agonista enviesada no receptor de angiotensina II tipo 1 empregando-se técnicas de modelagem molecular e ensaios in vitro / Drug design of non-peptidic biased agonists for angiotensin II type 1 receptor using molecular modeling techniques and in vitro tests

A insuficiência cardíaca (IC) é uma síndrome de elevada morbimortalidade, correspondendo a um grave problema de saúde pública. Uma das abordagens terapêuticas para IC consiste no uso de antagonistas do receptor de angiotensina II do tipo 1 (AT1R), conhecidos como sartanas. Estudos apontam que uma nova classe de compostos, os agonistas enviesados, é capaz de induzir a sinalização da via da ß-arrestina sem ativação da via da proteína G. Essa seletividade funcional é particularmente interessante, pois a via dependente da proteína G é responsável pelo aumento da pressão arterial, morte celular e fibrose tecidual, levando a hipertrofia cardíaca e progressão da IC. No entanto, a via da ß-arrestina está associada com renovação celular e aumento do inotropismo. Além disso, estudos in vivo sugerem que agonistas enviesados poderiam corresponder a uma terapia superior à dos antagonistas convencionais, que bloqueiam ambas as vias. Apesar do potencial terapêutico, esses compostos possuem estrutura peptídica e, por isso, tem sua administração restrita à via intravenosa. A resolução da estrutura cristalográfica do AT1R permitiu estudos de modelagem molecular mais acurados. Tendo isso em mente, nesse trabalho foram propostos agonistas enviesados de natureza não peptídica para o AT1R por meio de técnicas de modelagem molecular e validação das hipóteses levantadas por ensaios in vitro. Foram realizados estudos de dinâmica molecular com o AT1R (PDB ID: 4YAY) em uma bicamada lipídica e ensaios de ancoramento molecular da angiotensina II (AngII) e do ligante enviesado TRV027. As poses de ancoramento molecular selecionadas foram utilizadas em dinâmicas de complexo, que revelaram diferenças entre os sistemas apo (sem nenhum ligante) e holo (com o ligante no sitio de ligação). Nossos resultados sugerem que o TRV027 induz um padrão exclusivo de ligações de hidrogênio e de estrutura secundária, enquanto que a AngII afeta os resíduos do bolso hidrofóbico do sitio de ligação, principalmente a conformação do Trp2536.48. Com base nas simulações, três farmacóforos foram criados e utilizados de maneira complementar em triagens virtuais na base de dados ZINC15, resultando na seleção de cinco compostos. Um desses compostos apresentou afinidade pelo receptor AT1R e, ainda que estudos complementares de ativação de vias especificas sejam necessários para que o composto possa ser classificado como agonista enviesado, já se constitui em molécula potencialmente promissora. Além disso, esses estudos permitiram a proposição de estruturas inéditas que podem vir a ser hits no processo de desenvolvimento de agonistas enviesados para AT1R. Portanto, como continuidade desse trabalho, essas moléculas serão sintetizadas e investigadas quanto à possível interação com o receptor.

Heart Failure (HF) is a common syndrome with high morbimortality, being considered a serious public health problem. One of the therapeutic approaches for HF consists in the use of the sartan class, which are angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) antagonists. Recent studies have shown that a new class of compounds, known as biased agonists, is able to induce signaling via ß-arrestin without G-protein activation. This functional selectivity is particularly interesting since G-protein dependent signaling is responsible for cell death and cardiac tissue fibrosis, which leads to cardiac muscle hypertophy and HF progression. On the other hand, ß-arrestin signaling is associated with cellular renewal and increased inotropism. In vivo studies suggests that biased agonists could correspond to a superior therapy over conventional angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonists, which blocks cell signaling as a whole, however their peptidic structure restricts their use to intravenous administration. Moreover, the AT1R crystal structure determination holds great promise for more accurate molecular modeling studies. With that being said, the aim of this work was to plan and develop new non-peptidic biased agonists for ATR1 employing molecular modeling techniques and in vitro tests for hypothesis validation. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the refined AT1R crystal (PDB ID: 4YAY) embedded in a lipid bilayer and molecular docking studies with angiotensin II (AngII) and TRV027 (biased agonist) were conducted. Selected docking poses from both ligands underwent complex MD simulations revealing differences between apo (ligand free) and holo (ligand in the binding site) systems. Our results suggest that TRV027 induces an exclusive hydrogen bond and secondary structure pattern, while AngII affects the hydrophobic pocket conformation, mainly Trp253. Based on the simulations, three pharmacophore models were created and used in virtual screenings in the ZINC15 database, resulting in the selection of five compounds that were tested in vitro. One of the compounds displayed affinity for AT1R and is a promising molecule. Nonetheless, it needs further pathway activation characterization in order to be a classified as a biased agonist. Furthermore, these results have contributed significantly for the proposition of new structures that could be hits with biased agonist activity for AT1R. Thus, for future works, we point out the necessity for synthesis and characterization of this new compounds

Proteínas homólogas de unión a reticulocitos de Plasmodium falciparum involucradas en el proceso de invasión al eritrocito: revisión de la literatura / Plasmodium falciparum reticulocyte-binding homologous proteins involved in the process of erythrocyte invasion: literature review / Proteínas de ligação a reticulócitos de Plasmodium falciparum homólogas envolvidas no pro-cesso de invasão de eritrócitos: revisão da literatura

Introducción: la malaria es uno de los mayores retos de la salud pública mundial. Es causada principalmente por los parásitos Plasmodium falciparum y Plasmodium vivax. Durante el proceso de invasión, se encuentran involucra-das las proteínas homólogas de unión a reticulocitos de P.falciparumPfRH1, PfRH2a, PfRH2b, PfRH4 y PfRH5, que tras su unión a receptores específicos de membrana permiten la invasión del merozoíto al eritrocito. Objetivo: compilar y resumir las características moleculares y estructurales de las interacciones entre las proteínas pertenecientes a la familia de proteínas homólogas de unión a reticulocitos de P.falciparum y los receptores expre-sados en la célula del hospedero. Método: revisión descriptiva sobre las proteínas homólogas de unión a reticulocitos de P. falciparum involucradas en el proceso de invasión al eritrocito. Esta revisiónincluye literatura publicada hasta el año 2020 en bases de datos electrónicas especializadas en investigación biomédica. Se encontraron 105 documentos, de los cuales se se-leccionaron 70 y se excluyeron 11, por no presentar los criterios de inclusión, analizando un total de 59 referencias. Conclusión: la invasión del merozoíto es mediada por interacciones específicas de los ligandos de las familias EBL y PfRH. La unión de las proteínas PfRH1 y PfRH2b a sus receptores en el eritrocito da lugar a la liberación de la proteína EBL-175 que, junto con PfRH4, median la formación de una unión estrecha entre el parásito y los glóbulos rojos. Ello permite la unión de la proteína PfRH5 a la basigina y la entrada del parásito a la célula del hospedero

Introduction: Malaria is one of the world's greatest public health challenges, caused mainly by Plas-modium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. During the invasion process, the P. falciparum reticulo-cyte-binding homologous proteins PfRH1, PfRH2a, PfRH2b, PfRH4 and PfRH5 are involved, which after binding to specific membrane receptors allow the invasion of the merozoite into the erythrocyte. Objective: To compile and summarize the molecular and structural characteristics of the interactions between proteins belonging to the P. falciparum family of reticulocyte-binding homologous proteins and the receptors expressed in the host cell. Method: Descriptive review of the P. falciparum reticulocyte-binding homologous proteins involved in the process of erythrocyte invasion. This review includes literature published until 2020 in electronic databases specialized in biomedical research. We found 105 papers, of which 70 were selected and 11 were excluded for not presenting the inclusion criteria, analyzing a total of 59 references. Conclusion: The invasion of merozoite is mediated by specific interactions of the ligands of the LBS and PfRH families. The binding of the PfRH1 and PfRH2b proteins to their receptors in the erythrocyte results in the release of the EBL-175 protein, which together with PfRH4 mediates the formation of a close bond between the parasite and the red blood cells, thus allowing the binding of the PfRH5 protein to basigin and the entry of the parasite into the host cell.

Introdução: a malária é um dos maiores desafios globais de saúde pública. É causada principalmente pelos parasitas Plasmodium falciparum e Plasmodium vivax. Durante o processo de invasão, proteínas homólogas de ligação a reticulócitos de P. falciparum PfRH1, PfRH2a, PfRH2b, PfRH4 e PfRH5 estão envolvidas, que após a ligação a receptores de membrana específicos permitem a invasão do mero-zoíta ao andritro. Objetivo: compilar e resumir as características moleculares e estruturais das interações entre as pro-teínas pertencentes à família das proteínas reticulocitárias homólogas de P. falciparum e os receptores expressos na célula hospedeira. Método: revisão descritiva das proteínas ho-mólogas de ligação a reticulócitos de P. falciparum envol-vidas no processo de invasão eritrocitária. Esta revisão inclui literatura publicada até 2020 em bases de dados eletrônicas especializadas em pesquisa biomédica. Foram encontrados 105 documentos, dos quais 70 foram selecionados e 11 excluídos por não apresentarem os critérios de inclusão, anali-sando um total de 59 referências. Conclusão: a invasão de merozoítos é mediada por interações específicas dos ligantes das famílias EBL e PfRH. A ligação das proteínas PfRH1 e PfRH2b aos seus receptores no eritrócito resulta na libe-ração da prote-ína EBL-175 que, junto com PfRH4, a mediação da formação de uma junção compacta entre o parasita e as hemácias. Isso permite a ligação da proteína PfRH5 à basigina e a entrada do parasita na célula hospedeira.

Acomplamiento molecular: criterios prácticos para la selección de ligandos biológicamente activos e identificación de nuevos blancos terapéuticos / Molecular docking: practical criteria forselection of biologically active ligands and identification of new therapeutic targets

El acoplamiento molecular es un método bioinformático que permite predecir y calcular computacionalmente la posición más favorable de interacción entre un ligando y un blanco (usualmente proteico) a partir de sus representaciones tridimensionales. Esta herramienta bioinformática no tiene una regla que se adapte a todos los casos y la mayoría de los programas empleados con esta finalidad, tienen diferentes métodos para tratar cada caso en particular. Además, cada blanco proteico es estructuralmente diferente y la capacidad de replicar los resultados experimentales y fisiológicos depende en gran medida del sistema utilizado y del criterio del usuario. Así, este artículo proporcionará pautas y detallará varios aspectos prácticos como el estado de protonación de los átomos, la identificación de moléculas de agua importantes en el sitio activo, la diferenciación entre moléculas activas y señuelos como mecanismo de control, la determinación de la energía libre de unión (∆G) y el análisis de la flexibilidad y la dinámica molecular; aspectos que deberían ser tomados en cuenta antes de iniciar un estudio de acoplamiento molecular para la búsqueda y selección virtual de ligandos e identificación de blancos terapéuticos.

Molecular docking is a bioinformatics method that allows predicting and calculating computationally the most favorable position of interaction between a ligand and a target (usually a protein) from its three-dimensional representations. This bioinformatics tool does not have a rule that suits all cases and most of the programs used for this purpose have different methodologies to deal with each particular case. In addition, each protein target is structurally different and the ability to replicate the experimental and physiological results depends largely on the system used and the user's criteria. Thus, this article will provide guidelines and detail several practical aspects such as the protonation state of atoms, the identification of important water molecules in the active site, the differentiation between active molecules and decoys as a control mechanism, the determination of free energy binding (∆G) and analysis of flexibility and molecular dynamics; aspects that should be taken into account before starting a molecular docking study for a virtual ligand screening and identification of therapeutic targets.

Two new mixed-ligand coordination polymers based on multi-N chelating ligand inhibit YAP expression and induce caspase-mediated spinal tumor cell apoptosis

Two new coordination polymers [Zn (bdc)(bpybzimH2)](DMF)0.5 (1, H2bdc=1,4-dicarboxybenzene, bpybzimH2=6,6′-bis-(1H-benzoimidazol-2-yl)-2,2′-bipyridine, DMF=N,N-dimethylformamide) and [Co (bpybzimH2)(sbc)]H2O (2, H2sbc=4-mercaptobenzoic acid) have been successfully prepared under solvothermal conditions using the multi-N chelating organic ligand bpybzimH2 as the foundational building block. In addition, the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was conducted to evaluate the anti-proliferation activity of compounds 1 and 2 against human spinal tumor cells OPM-2. The cell viability curves showed that the two compounds have anti-proliferation activity on spinal tumor cells, and the activity of compound 1 is higher than compound 2. The annexin V-FITC/PI assay and western blot were used to detect the apoptotic percentage of OPM-2 cells incubated with compounds 1 and 2. The YAP protein expression and its role in cell apoptosis were further studied with qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and flow cytometer.

Characterization of the ligand binding of PGRP-L in half-smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis) by molecular dynamics and free energy calculation

Background: Peptidoglycan (PGN) recognition proteins (PGRPs) are important pattern recognition receptors of the host innate immune system that are involved in the immune defense against bacterial pathogens. PGRPs have been characterized in several fish species. The PGN-binding ability is important for the function of PGRPs. However, the PGRP-PGN interaction mechanism in fish remains unclear. In the present study, the 3-D model of a long PGRP of half-smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis) (csPGRP-L), a marine teleost with great economic value, was constructed through the comparative modeling method, and the key amino acids involved in the interaction with Lys-type PGNs and Dap-type PGNs were analyzed by molecular dynamics and molecular docking methods. Results: csPGRP-L possessed a typical PGRP structure, consisting of five ß-sheets and four α-helices. Molecular docking showed that the van der Waals forces had a slightly larger contribution than Coulombic interaction in the csPGRP-L-PGN complex. Moreover, the binding energies of csPGRP-L-PGNs computed by MM-PBSA method revealed that csPGRP-L might selectively bind both types of MTP-PGNs and MPP-PGNs. In addition, the binding energy of each residue of csPGRP-L was also calculated, revealing that the residues involved in the interaction with Lys-type PGNs were different from that with Dap-type PGNs. Conclusions: The 3-D structure of csPGRP-L possessed typical PGRP structure and might selectively bind both types of MTP- and MPP-PGNs, which provided useful insights to understanding the functions of fish PGRPs.

Two novel Mg(II)-based and Zn(II)-based complexes: inhibiting growth of human liver cancer cells

Two new Mg(II)-based and Zn(II)-based coordination polymers, {[Mg3(BTB)(DMA)4](DMA)2}n (1, H3BTB=1,3,5-benzenetrisbenzoic acid, DMA=N,N-dimethylacetamide) and {(H2NMe2)2[Zn3(BTB)2(OH)(Im)](DMF)9(MeOH)7}n (2, Im=imidazole, DMF=N,N-dimethylformamide), have been successfully synthesized and structurally characterized under solvothermal conditions. 1 contains a linear [Mg3(COO)6] cluster that connected by the fully deprotonated BTB3- ligands to give a kgd-type 2D bilayer structure; 2 represents a microporous 3D pillar-layered system based on the binuclear Zn units and pillared Im ligands, which shows a (3,5)-connected hms topological net. In addition, in vitro anticancer activities of compounds 1 and 2 on 4 human liver cancer cells (HB611, HHCC, BEL-7405 and SMMC-7721) were determined.

Treatment of acromegaly patients at the Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM): Experience Report

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment of acromegaly patients at the Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro. METHODS: Cross-sectional and retrospective study of thirty cases treated over a period of two decades. RESULTS: 17 men (56.7%) aged 14-67 years and 13 women aged 14-86 years were analyzed. Twenty-one patients underwent transphenoidal surgery, whichwas associated with somatostatin receptor ligands in 11 patients (39.3%), somatostatin receptor ligands + radiotherapyin 5 patients (17.8%), radiotherapy in 3 patients (10.7%), and radiotherapy + somatostatin receptorligands + cabergoline in 1 patient (3.6%). Additionally, 2 patients underwent radiotherapy and surgeryalone. Six patients received somatostatin receptor ligands before surgery, and 2 were not treated due to refusal and death. Nine patients have died, and 20 are being followed; 13 (65%) have growth hormonelevels o1 ng/mL, and 11 have normal insulin-like growth factor 1 levels. CONCLUSION: The current treatment options enable patients seen in regional reference centers to achieve strict control parameters, which allows them to be treated close to their homes.

Síntese de 4-cloro-1-hidroxinaftaleno-2-oxazolinas a partir do ácido 1-hidroxi-2-naftóico: ciclização e halogenação one-pot empregando cloreto de tionila / Synthesis of 4-chloro-1-hydroxynaphthalene-2- oxazolines from 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid: one-pot cyclization and one halogenation using thionyl chloride

No presente trabalho, foi desenvolvida uma metodologia one-pot para obtenção de produtos 4-cloro-1-hidroxinaftaleno-2-oxazolinas (Cl-HNO) 4, utilizando um excesso de SOCl2 a partir da amida 3a. Para a formação do produto de interesse 4 foi desenvolvida uma proposta mecanística para a simultânea ciclização do anel 2- oxazolina e halogenção na porção do anel naftóico através de espectrometria de massas de alta resolução, difração de raios-x e cálculos teóricos. Em seguida, a hidrólise de 4 levou ao produto 5 com nova inversão de configuração no C4. Para funcionalização do ácido 5, foram reagidos grupos aminas e álcoois, conduzindo a uma pequena biblioteca de compostos inéditos com propriedades fluorescentes (6a-e, 7a-e) com Φf 0.8%-1.6%. Testes biológicos contra cepas de fungos foram realizadas. Em uma segunda etapa do trabalho, foi realizada a aplicação do anel 2-oxazolínico como ligantes em reações de acoplamento cruzado do tipo Suzuki-Miyaura. A síntese dos ligantes foi realizada em apenas dois passos reacionais, partindo das amidas 3a-c reagidas com Deoxo-Flúor® levando a três diferentes ligantes 8a-c. Os mesmos foram testados, e o ligante 8a levou aos produtos de acoplamento 9a-m com os melhores rendimentos de 59% a 95%

In this work, we developed a new one-pot method for synthesizing 4-chlorinated 1- hydroxynaphthaleno-2-oxazoline (2-HNO) 4 by subjecting amide 3a to excess SOCl2. A mechanism for the formation of 4 is proposed, which involves simultaneous cyclization to form the 2-oxazoline ring and halogenation of the 2-hyrdoxynaphthalene ring. We present supporting evidence for this mechanism in the form of high resolution mass spectrometry, x-ray crystallography and theoretical calculations. Hydrolysis of 4 led to product 5 with inversion of configuration at C-4, confirmed by NMR spectra. To functionalize the acid 5, amines and alcohols were reacted with acid 5, leading to a small library of novel compounds having fluorescent properties (6a-e, 7a-e) with Φf 0.8%-1.6%. Furthermore, the library of compounds were used in biological testing against various strains of fungi. In the second stage of this work, we explored the application of the 2-oxazoline ring, through its use as a ligand in Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions. The preparation of the ligands were obtained in only two reaction steps, starting from amides 3a-c were reacted with Deoxo-Fluor®, leading to three different ligands 8a-c, respectively. The same were tested, and the ligand 8a provided coupling products 9a-m in good yields of 59% to 95%

Swim training and the genetic expression of adipokines in monosodium glutamate-treated obese rats

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic expression of adipokines in the adipocytes of monosodium glutamate (MSG)-treated obese rats submitted to physical activity.Materials and methods Obesity was induced by neonatal MSG administration. Exercised rats (MSG and control) were subjected to swim training for 30 min for 10 weeks, whereas their respective controls remained sedentary. Total RNA was obtained from sections of the mesenteric adipose tissue of the rats. mRNA levels of adiponectin (Adipoq), tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnf), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (Ppara), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg) adipokines were quantified by quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR).Results In the exercise-trained control group, the expression of Adipoq increased compared to the sedentary control, which was not observed in the MSG-obese rats. Increased levels of Tnf in MSG-obese rats were not reversed by the swim training. The expression of Ppara was higher in sedentary MSG-obese rats compared to the sedentary control. Swimming increased this adipokine expression in the exercise-trained control rats compared to the sedentary ones. mRNA levels of Pparg were higher in the sedentary MSG-rats compared to the sedentary control; however, the exercise did not influenced its expression in the groups analyzed.Conclusions In conclusion, regular physical activity was not capable to correct the expression of proinflammatory adipokines in MSG-obese rat adipocytes.

Clinical outcomes and mortality in elderly peritoneal dialysis patients

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the clinical outcomes and identify the predictors of mortality in elderly patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study including all incident peritoneal dialysis cases in patients ≥65 years of age treated from 2001 to 2014. Demographic and clinical data on the initiation of peritoneal dialysis and the clinical events during the study period were collected. Infectious complications were recorded. Overall and technique survival rates were analyzed. RESULTS: Fifty-eight patients who began peritoneal dialysis during the study period were considered for analysis, and 50 of these patients were included in the final analysis. Peritoneal dialysis exchanges were performed by another person for 65% of the patients, whereas 79.9% of patients preferred to perform the peritoneal dialysis themselves. Peritonitis and catheter exit site/tunnel infection incidences were 20.4±16.3 and 24.6±17.4 patient-months, respectively. During the follow-up period, 40 patients were withdrawn from peritoneal dialysis. Causes of death included peritonitis and/or sepsis (50%) and cardiovascular events (30%). The mean patient survival time was 38.9±4.3 months, and the survival rates were 78.8%, 66.8%, 50.9% and 19.5% at 1, 2, 3 and 4 years after peritoneal dialysis initiation, respectively. Advanced age, the presence of additional diseases, increased episodes of peritonitis, the use of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and low albumin levels and daily urine volumes (<100 ml) at the initiation of peritoneal dialysis were predictors of mortality. The mean technique survival duration was 61.7±5.2 months. The technique survival rates were 97.9%, 90.6%, 81.5% and 71% at 1, 2, 3 and 4 years, respectively. None of the factors analyzed were predictors of technique survival. CONCLUSIONS: Mortality was higher in elderly patients. Factors affecting mortality in elderly patients included advanced age, ...

El significado del capital social "individual" en diabéticos receptores de cuidado en un contexto urbano colombiano / The meaning of "individual" social capital for diabetics receiving care in a Colombian city / O significado do capital social "individual" em diabéticos que precisam de cuidados dentro de um contexto urbano colombiano

Comprender el significado del capital social de la diabetes tipo 2 según género, dentro un contexto urbano colombiano. Investigación cualitativa del interaccionismo simbólico. 25 mujeres y 16 hombres, diabéticos, familiares, vecinos y personal asistencial participaron en seis grupos focales. Emergieron 850 códigos que se integraron en un set de 142 códigos de códigos para el ego, el alter y alter ego. Tres categorías y veinte subcategorías fueron identificadas para el diseño del "paradigma de la codificación". El significado no es igual para hombres y mujeres. Los vínculos sociales de las redes sociales, creados cotidianamente por la confianza y la solidaridad para el cuidado, son valorados de manera diferente, debido a experiencias y hechos sociales resultantes de la autoconfianza, la autoeficacia para el apoyo social principalmente y, la autoestima frente al manejo y control de la enfermedad. Los recursos sociales de un individuo son reificados para el manejo y cuidado de la enfermedad como estrategia para disminuir las inequidades en salud.

The aim of this study was to understand the meaning of social capital in relation to type 2 diabetes according to gender, within an urban setting in Colombia, based on a qualitative design for symbolic interactionism. Twenty-four women and 16 men with diabetes, family members, and healthcare personnel participated in six focus groups. A total of 850 codes emerged that comprised a set of 142 codes for ego, alter, and alter ego. Three categories and 20 subcategories were identified for the "coding paradigm design". The meaning differed between men and women. Social ties in social networks, created daily through trust and solidarity for care, were valued differently due to the social experiences and events resulting from self-confidence, self-efficacy for social support, and mainly self-esteem vis-à-vis management and control of the disease. An individual's social resources are reified for the management and care of the disease as a strategy to mitigate health inequalities. .

Compreender o significado do capital social, diabetes tipo 2 por sexo, um contexto urbano da Colômbia. pesquisa qualitativa do interacionismo simbólico. 25 mulheres e 16 homens, diabéticos, familiares, vizinhos e cuidadores participaram seis grupos focais. 850 códigos se que foram integrados em um conjunto de 142 codes para o ego, o alter e alter ego. Três categorias e vinte subcategorias foram identificados para o projeto de "codificação de paradigma". O significado não é o mesmo para homens e mulheres. Laços sociais das redes sociais criadas diariamente pela confiança e solidariedade são valorizados cuidado diferente, porque as experiências sociais e fatos resultantes da auto-confiança, auto-eficácia e de apoio social, principalmente, auto-gestão e controle em relação a doença. Os recursos sociais de um indivíduo são reificadas para a gestão o cuidado da doença como uma estratégia para reduzir as desigualdades na saúde.

Susceptibility weighted imaging: differentiating between calcification and hemosiderin / Imagem ponderada em suscetibilidade magnética: diferenciando calcificação de hemossiderina

Objective: To present a detailed explanation on the processing of magnetic susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI), demonstrating the effects of echo time and sensitive mask on the differentiation between calcification and hemosiderin. Materials and Methods: Computed tomography and magnetic resonance (magnitude and phase) images of six patients (age range 41– 54 years; four men) were retrospectively selected. The SWI images processing was performed using the Matlab’s own routine. Results: Four out of the six patients showed calcifications at computed tomography images and their SWI images demonstrated hyperintense signal at the calcification regions. The other patients did not show any calcifications at computed tomography, and SWI revealed the presence of hemosiderin deposits with hypointense signal. Conclusion: The selection of echo time and of the mask may change all the information on SWI images, and compromise the diagnostic reliability. Amongst the possible masks, the authors highlight that the sigmoid mask allows for contrasting calcifications and hemosiderin on a single SWI image. .

Objetivo: Expor em detalhes o processamento da imagem ponderada em suscetibilidade magnética (susceptibility weighted imaging – SWI), destacando o efeito da escolha do tempo de eco e da máscara sensível à diferenciação de calcificação e hemossiderina simultaneamente. Materiais e Métodos: Imagens de tomografia computadorizada e por ressonância magnética (magnitude e fase) foram selecionadas, retrospectivamente, de seis pacientes (idades entre 41 e 54 anos; quatro homens). O processamento das imagens SWI foi realizado em rotina própria no programa Matlab. Resultados: Dos seis pacientes estudados, quatro apresentaram calcificações nas imagens de tomografia computadorizada. Nestes, as imagens SWI mostraram sinal hiperintenso para as regiões de calcificações. Os outros dois pacientes não apresentaram calcificações nas imagens de tomografia computadorizada e apresentaram depósito de hemossiderina com sinal hipointenso na imagem SWI. Conclusão: A escolha do tempo de eco e da máscara pode alterar toda a informação da imagem SWI e comprometer a confiabilidade diagnóstica. Dentre as possíveis máscaras, destacamos que a máscara sigmoide permite contrastar calcificação e hemossiderina em uma única imagem SWI. .

Evolution of mammographic image quality in the state of Rio de Janeiro / A evolução da qualidade da imagem em mamografia no Estado do Rio de Janeiro

Objective: To evaluate the evolution of mammographic image quality in the state of Rio de Janeiro on the basis of parameters measured and analyzed during health surveillance inspections in the period from 2006 to 2011. Materials and Methods: Descriptive study analyzing parameters connected with imaging quality of 52 mammography apparatuses inspected at least twice with a one-year interval. Results: Amongst the 16 analyzed parameters, 7 presented more than 70% of conformity, namely: compression paddle pressure intensity (85.1%), films development (72.7%), film response (72.7%), low contrast fine detail (92.2%), tumor mass visualization (76.5%), absence of image artifacts (94.1%), mammography-specific developers availability (88.2%). On the other hand, relevant parameters were below 50% conformity, namely: monthly image quality control testing (28.8%) and high contrast details with respect to microcalcifications visualization (47.1%). Conclusion: The analysis revealed critical situations in terms of compliance with the health surveillance standards. Priority should be given to those mammography apparatuses that remained non-compliant at the second inspection performed within the one-year interval. .

Objetivo: Avaliar a evolução da qualidade da imagem de mamógrafos localizados no Estado do Rio de Janeiro, de 2006 a 2011, com base em parâmetros medidos e observados durante inspeções sanitárias. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo descritivo sobre a evolução de parâmetros que condicionam a qualidade da imagem focalizou 52 mamógrafos, inspecionados no mínimo duas vezes, com intervalo de um ano. Resultados: Dos 16 parâmetros avaliados, 7 apresentaram mais de 70% de conformidade: força do dispositivo de compressão (85,1%), processamento dos filmes (72,7%), resposta do filme do serviço (72,7%), detalhes lineares de baixo contraste (92,2%), visualização de massas tumorais (76,5%), ausência de artefatos de imagem (94,1%), existência de processadoras específicas para mamografia (88,2%). Importantes parâmetros apresentaram-se abaixo de 50% de conformidade: realização de testes mensais da qualidade de imagem pelo estabelecimento (28,8%) e detalhes de alto contraste, que dizem respeito à visualização de microcalcificações (47,1%). Conclusão: A análise revelou situações críticas da atuação da vigilância sanitária, cuja prioridade deveria ser dirigida aos estacionários, ou seja, os mamógrafos que permaneceram na situação de não conformidade nas inspeções realizadas com intervalo de um ano. .

Metabolic effects of exercise on childhood obesity: a current view / Efeitos metabólicos do exercício físico na obesidade infantil: uma visão atual

OBJECTIVE: To review the current literature concerning the effects of physical exercise on several metabolic variables related to childhood obesity. DATA SOURCE: A search was performed in Pubmed/MEDLINE and Web of Science databases. The keywords used were as follows: Obesity, Children Obesity, Childhood Obesity, Exercise and Physical Activity. The online search was based on studies published in English, from April 2010 to December 2013. DATA SYNTHESIS: Search queries returned 88,393 studies based on the aforementioned keywords; 4,561 studies were selected by crossing chosen keywords. After applying inclusion criteria, four studies were selected from 182 eligible titles. Most studies found that aerobic and resistance training improves body composition, lipid profile and metabolic and inflammatory status of obese children and adolescents; however, the magnitude of these effects is associated with the type, intensity and duration of practice. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of the type, physical exercise promotes positive adaptations to childhood obesity, mainly acting to restore cellular and cardiovascular homeostasis, to improve body composition, and to activate metabolism; therefore, physical exercise acts as a co-factor in fighting obesity. .

OBJETIVO: Revisar a literatura atual a respeito dos efeitos do exercício físico sobre diferentes variáveis metabólicas da obesidade infantil. FONTES DE DADOS: A pesquisa foi feita nas bases de dados Pubmed e Web of Science. Os descritores usados foram: obesity, children obesity, childhood obesity, exercise e physical activity. A pesquisa eletrônica foi feita com base nos estudos publicados de abril de 2010 a dezembro de 2013, em idioma inglês. SÍNTESE DOS DADOS: O rastreamento dos estudos com os descritores encontrou 88.393. Após cruzamento entre os descritores, obtiveram-se 4.561. Desses, depois da análise dos títulos, foram cogitados 182 relevantes referências, submetidos então aos critérios de inclusão/exclusão, e totalizaram, no fim, 39. A maioria dos estudos relacionou a prática de exercícios físicos aeróbicos e resistidos à melhoria da composição corporal, à regulação do perfil lipídico e metabólico e ao estado inflamatório de crianças e adolescentes obesos. Entretanto, a magnitude dos efeitos está associada ao tipo, à intensidade e à duração da prática. CONCLUSÕES: O exercício físico, independentemente do tipo, mostra-se capaz de promover adaptações positivas sobre a obesidade infantil, principalmente por atuar na restauração da homeostase celular e sistema cardiovascular, na melhoria da composição corporal e também aumento da ativação metabólica. .

"El hecho de que sean más mujeres, no garantiza nada": feminización y experiencias de las mujeres en la ginecobstetricia en México / "The fact that there are more women doesn't guarantee anything": The feminization of obstetrics and gynecology and the experiences of female medical professionals in Mexico

En el marco de la creciente feminización de la profesión médica en México, el artículo indaga sobre las características de este proceso para el caso de la ginecobstetricia. Considerando la feminización como un proceso de cambio, que se analiza cuantitativa y cualitativamente, el artículo se detiene en especial en las experiencias de las mujeres ginecobstetras, experiencias que se dan en el seno de una especialidad que, desde sus orígenes, funcionó como un dispositivo de control del cuerpo de las mujeres. Basado en una investigación etnográfica, el artículo combina fuentes estadísticas, de archivo y de observación de campo. El material que surge de las entrevistas muestra las experiencias y tensiones que viven las ginecobstetras en este contexto.

In the framework of an increasing feminization of the medical profession in Mexico, this article explores the characteristics of this process in the obstetrics and gynecology specialty. Understanding feminization as a process of change to be analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively, the article focuses special attention on the experiences of female obstetrician-gynecologists within a medical specialty that has since its origins functioned as a mechanism of control over women's bodies. Based on ethnographic research, the article combines statistical and archival sources and field observation. The interviews reveal the experiences and tensions women obstetrician-gynecologists encounter in this context.