Cystatin C peptidomimetic derivative with antimicrobial properties as a potential compound against wound infections.

A peptidomimetic called A20 (Cystapep 1) structurally based upon the N-terminal fragment of human cystatin C is known to have strong antibacterial properties. A20 is characterized by high activity against several bacterial strains often isolated from infected wounds, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). In this work we wanted to explore the therapeutic potential of A20 in the treatment of wound infections. We examined, cytotoxicity, allergenicity and impact of A20 on the proliferation and viability of human keratinocytes. Furthermore, the previously described antimicrobial action of A20has been confirmed here with reference strains of bacteria and extended by several other species. The A20 was highly active against Gram-positive bacteria with minimal inhibitory (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) between 8 and 128µg/mL. A20 did not affect proliferation of primary human keratinocytes in concentrations up to 50µg/mL. At the same time, it did not activate Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs), including basophils or neutrophils in vitro. Interestingly A20 was found to display immunomodulatory functions as it influences the production of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) by activated PBMCs. It was also resistant to degradation for at least 48h in human plasma. The results indicate that A20 is effective against the multiantibiotic-resistant bacteria and has a high safety profile, which makes it a promising antimicrobial drug candidate.

[Application of basophil activation test in diagnosing aspirin hypersensitivity]. / Zastosowanie testu aktywacji bazofilów w diagnostyce nadwrazliwosci na kwas acetylosalicylowy.

In the face of increasing prevalence of hypersensitivity reactions, introduction of effective, reliable and safe methods plays a crucial role in their diagnosing. Among the currently available laboratory (in vitro) methods is basophil activation test (BAT). It is a flow- cytometry based assay that allows to identificate in the blood sample basophils and additionally to asses the degree of cell activation after exposure to an antigen. The most common superficial identification markers are CD63 and CD203c, which increase in number after activation. Basophil actvation test can be applied to confirm diagnosis of allergy to Hymenoptera venoms, food, pollens and hypersensitivity to drugs. The aim of present paper is to present theoretical methods of this test as well as its pros and cons. We focus also on presentation of clinical case where BAT seemed to be a necessary addition to a routine diagnostic pathway. We present a case of identification of the culprit drug which caused an anaphylactic reaction.

[Analysis of deaths caused by obstructive pulmonary diseases in Pomerania province in 2001-2004]. / Analiza zgonów z powodu obturacyjnych chorób pluc w latach 2001-2004 w województwie pomorskim.

INTRODUCTION: Lung diseases, especially COPD, are one of the leading causes of death. The aim of the study was to assess mortality caused by COPD, asthma and cor pulmonale in the years 2001-2004 in the Pomerania province. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Death certificates of patients who died of asthma, COPD or cor pulmonale registered in Regional Health Centre were analyzed. RESULTS: The mortality rate for COPD was 14.02/100 000, asthma 2.04/100 000 and cor pulmonale 2.4/100 000 inhabitants. Mortality rate from COPD increased from 12.5/100 000 found in 2001 to 15.6/100 000 found in 2004 (p = 0.005). The number of deaths was higher in the winter time. The peak mortality was found in patients 65 years old. 71% of COPD and cor pulmonale patients died in the hospital, whereas 75% of asthma deaths occurred at home (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: The mortality rates from chronic respiratory diseases in the analyzed population are comparable to data found in other studies. The alarming result is the increase in the number of COPD deaths and high percentage of asthma patients who die at home.

[Side effects of specific immunotherapy in patients with hymenoptera venom allergy]. / Objawy niepozadane podczas immunoterapii swoistej u chorych z alergia na jady owadów blonkoskrzydlych.

The aim of this study was to estimate safety of specific immunotherapy to insects' venom. The frequency of side effects was compared in two groups of patients: subjects with hypersensitivity to insects' venom only and patients with allergy to other allergens. In the examined group of 32 patients with Hymenoptera venoms allergy skin prick tests with common aeroallergens were performed in 30 subjects. In 18 patients (60%) at least one test was positive. In 23 patients (71.9%) immunotherapy with Hymenoptera venom was connected with side effects observed just after administration of vaccine. They were mainly local reactions (itching, redness and oedema). In 6 patients late reactions were observed. No correlation has been found between frequency of side effects of immunotherapy and positive results of skin prick tests. However systemic reactions were revealed only in the group of patients with at least one positive result of skin prick tests.