RESUMO
We present compelling evidence for the existence of an extended innate viperin-dependent pathway, which provides crucial evidence for an adaptive response to viral agents, such as SARS-CoV-2. We show the in vivo biosynthesis of a family of novel endogenous cytosine metabolites with potential antiviral activities. Two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy revealed a characteristic spin-system motif, indicating the presence of an extended panel of urinary metabolites during the acute viral replication phase. Mass spectrometry additionally enabled the characterization and quantification of the most abundant serum metabolites, showing the potential diagnostic value of the compounds for viral infections. In total, we unveiled ten nucleoside (cytosine- and uracil-based) analogue structures, eight of which were previously unknown in humans allowing us to propose a new extended viperin pathway for the innate production of antiviral compounds. The molecular structures of the nucleoside analogues and their correlation with an array of serum cytokines, including IFN-α2, IFN-γ, and IL-10, suggest an association with the viperin enzyme contributing to an ancient endogenous innate immune defense mechanism against viral infection.
Assuntos
COVID-19 , Humanos , Estrutura Molecular , SARS-CoV-2 , Imunidade Inata , Citosina , Redes e Vias Metabólicas , AntiviraisRESUMO
Mitofusin-2 (MFN2) is an outer mitochondrial membrane protein essential for mitochondrial networking in most cells. Autosomal dominant mutations in the MFN2 gene cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2A disease (CMT2A), a severe and disabling sensory-motor neuropathy that impacts the entire nervous system. Here, we propose a novel therapeutic strategy tailored to correcting the root genetic defect of CMT2A. Though mutant and wild-type MFN2 mRNA are inhibited by RNA interference (RNAi), the wild-type protein is restored by overexpressing cDNA encoding functional MFN2 modified to be resistant to RNAi. We tested this strategy in CMT2A patient-specific human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-differentiated motor neurons (MNs), demonstrating the correct silencing of endogenous MFN2 and replacement with an exogenous copy of the functional wild-type gene. This approach significantly rescues the CMT2A MN phenotype in vitro, stabilizing the altered axonal mitochondrial distribution and correcting abnormal mitophagic processes. The MFN2 molecular correction was also properly confirmed in vivo in the MitoCharc1 CMT2A transgenic mouse model after cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) delivery of the constructs into newborn mice using adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9). Altogether, our data support the feasibility of a combined RNAi and gene therapy strategy for treating the broad spectrum of human diseases associated with MFN2 mutations.
Assuntos
Doença de Charcot-Marie-Tooth , Células-Tronco Pluripotentes Induzidas , Humanos , Camundongos , Animais , Interferência de RNA , Proteínas Mitocondriais/genética , Proteínas Mitocondriais/metabolismo , GTP Fosfo-Hidrolases/genética , GTP Fosfo-Hidrolases/metabolismo , Células-Tronco Pluripotentes Induzidas/metabolismo , Doença de Charcot-Marie-Tooth/genética , Doença de Charcot-Marie-Tooth/terapia , Doença de Charcot-Marie-Tooth/metabolismo , Mutação , Hidrolases/genética , Camundongos TransgênicosRESUMO
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating gut disease in preterm neonates. In NEC animal models, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) administration has reduced the incidence and severity of NEC. We developed and characterized a novel mouse model of NEC to evaluate the effect of human bone marrow-derived MSCs (hBM-MSCs) in tissue regeneration and epithelial gut repair. NEC was induced in C57BL/6 mouse pups at postnatal days (PND) 3-6 by (A) gavage feeding term infant formula, (B) hypoxia/hypothermia, and (C) lipopolysaccharide. Intraperitoneal injections of PBS or two hBM-MSCs doses (0.5 × 106 or 1 × 106) were given on PND2. At PND 6, we harvested intestine samples from all groups. The NEC group showed an incidence of NEC of 50% compared with controls (p < 0.001). Severity of bowel damage was reduced by hBM-MSCs compared to the PBS-treated NEC group in a concentration-dependent manner, with hBM-MSCs (1 × 106) inducing a NEC incidence reduction of up to 0% (p < 0.001). We showed that hBM-MSCs enhanced intestinal cell survival, preserving intestinal barrier integrity and decreasing mucosal inflammation and apoptosis. In conclusion, we established a novel NEC animal model and demonstrated that hBM-MSCs administration reduced the NEC incidence and severity in a concentration-dependent manner, enhancing intestinal barrier integrity.
Assuntos
Enterocolite Necrosante , Doenças do Recém-Nascido , Células-Tronco Mesenquimais , Animais , Camundongos , Lactente , Recém-Nascido , Humanos , Medula Óssea , Camundongos Endogâmicos C57BL , IntestinosRESUMO
T-cell-driven immune responses are responsible for several autoimmune disorders, such as psoriasis vulgaris and rheumatoid arthritis. Identification of metabolic signatures in inflamed tissues is needed to facilitate novel and individualised therapeutic developments. Here we show the temporal metabolic dynamics of T-cell-driven inflammation characterised by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy-based metabolomics, histopathology and immunohistochemistry in acute and chronic cutaneous delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction (DTHR). During acute DTHR, an increase in glutathione and glutathione disulfide is consistent with the ear swelling response and degree of neutrophilic infiltration, while taurine and ascorbate dominate the chronic phase, suggesting a switch in redox metabolism. Lowered amino acids, an increase in cell membrane repair-related metabolites and infiltration of T cells and macrophages further characterise chronic DTHR. Acute and chronic cutaneous DTHR can be distinguished by characteristic metabolic patterns associated with individual inflammatory pathways providing knowledge that will aid target discovery of specialised therapeutics.
Assuntos
Inflamação , Pele , Animais , Camundongos , Inflamação/patologia , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Linfócitos T , MacrófagosRESUMO
Rationale: Unilateral ligation of the pulmonary artery may induce lung injury through multiple mechanisms, which might be dampened by inhaled CO2. Objectives: This study aims to characterize bilateral lung injury owing to unilateral ligation of the pulmonary artery in healthy swine undergoing controlled mechanical ventilation and its prevention by 5% CO2 inhalation and to investigate relevant pathophysiological mechanisms. Methods: Sixteen healthy pigs were allocated to surgical ligation of the left pulmonary artery (ligation group), seven to surgical ligation of the left pulmonary artery and inhalation of 5% CO2 (ligation + FiCO2 5%), and six to no intervention (no ligation). Then, all animals received mechanical ventilation with Vt 10 ml/kg, positive end-expiratory pressure 5 cm H2O, respiratory rate 25 breaths/min, and FiO2 50% (±FiCO2 5%) for 48 hours or until development of severe lung injury. Measurements and Main Results: Histological, physiological, and quantitative computed tomography scan data were compared between groups to characterize lung injury. Electrical impedance tomography and immunohistochemistry analysis were performed in a subset of animals to explore mechanisms of injury. Animals from the ligation group developed bilateral lung injury as assessed by significantly higher histological score, larger increase in lung weight, poorer oxygenation, and worse respiratory mechanics compared with the ligation + FiCO2 5% group. In the ligation group, the right lung received a larger fraction of Vt and inflammation was more represented, whereas CO2 dampened both processes. Conclusions: Mechanical ventilation induces bilateral lung injury within 48 hours in healthy pigs undergoing left pulmonary artery ligation. Inhalation of 5% CO2 prevents injury, likely through decreased stress to the right lung and antiinflammatory effects.
Assuntos
Dióxido de Carbono/uso terapêutico , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Lesão Pulmonar/prevenção & controle , Substâncias Protetoras/uso terapêutico , Artéria Pulmonar/cirurgia , Respiração Artificial/efeitos adversos , Suínos/cirurgia , Administração por Inalação , Animais , Feminino , Ligadura , Lesão Pulmonar/etiologia , Lesão Pulmonar/fisiopatologia , Lesão Pulmonar/terapia , Resultado do TratamentoRESUMO
In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), sarcolemma fragility and myofiber necrosis produce cellular debris that attract inflammatory cells. Macrophages and T-lymphocytes infiltrate muscles in response to damage-associated molecular pattern signalling and the release of TNF-α, TGF-ß and interleukins prevent skeletal muscle improvement from the inflammation. This immunological scenario was extended by the discovery of a specific response to muscle antigens and a role for regulatory T cells (Tregs) in muscle regeneration. Normally, autoimmunity is avoided by autoreactive T-lymphocyte deletion within thymus, while in the periphery Tregs monitor effector T-cells escaping from central regulatory control. Here, we report impairment of thymus architecture of mdx mice together with decreased expression of ghrelin, autophagy dysfunction and AIRE down-regulation. Transplantation of dystrophic thymus in recipient nude mice determine the up-regulation of inflammatory/fibrotic markers, marked metabolic breakdown that leads to muscle atrophy and loss of force. These results indicate that involution of dystrophic thymus exacerbates muscular dystrophy by altering central immune tolerance.
Assuntos
Tolerância Imunológica/imunologia , Músculo Esquelético/patologia , Atrofia Muscular/patologia , Distrofia Muscular Animal/patologia , Timo/patologia , Animais , Autofagia/fisiologia , Grelina/biossíntese , Macrófagos/imunologia , Masculino , Camundongos , Camundongos Endogâmicos BALB C , Camundongos Endogâmicos C57BL , Camundongos Endogâmicos mdx , Camundongos Nus , Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne/patologia , Linfócitos T/transplante , Linfócitos T Reguladores/imunologia , Timo/transplante , Fatores de Transcrição/biossíntese , Proteína AIRERESUMO
The increasing use of marginal lungs for transplantation encourages novel approaches to improve graft quality. Melanocortins and their receptors (MCRs) exert multiple beneficial effects in pulmonary inflammation. We tested the idea that treatment with the synthetic α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogue [Nle4,D-Phe7]-α-MSH (NDP-MSH) during ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) could exert positive influences in lungs exposed to different injuries. Rats were assigned to one of the following protocols (N = 10 each): 1) ischemia/reperfusion (IR) or 2) cardiac death (CD) followed by ex vivo perfusion. NDP-MSH treatment was performed in five rats of each protocol before lung procurement and during EVLP. Pulmonary function and perfusate concentration of gases, electrolytes, metabolites, nitric-oxide, mediators, and cells were assessed throughout EVLP. ATP content and specific MCR expression were investigated in perfused lungs and in biopsies collected from rats in resting conditions (Native, N = 5). NDP-MSH reduced the release of inflammatory mediators in perfusates of both the IR and the CD groups. Treatment was likewise associated with a lesser amount of leukocytes (IR: p = 0.034; CD: p = 0.002) and reduced lactate production (IR: p = 0.010; CD: p = 0.008). In lungs exposed to IR injury, the NDP-MSH group showed increased ATP content (p = 0.040) compared to controls. In CD lungs, a significant improvement of vascular (p = 0.002) and airway (Ppeak: p < 0.001, compliance: p < 0.050, pO2: p < 0.001) parameters was observed. Finally, the expression of MC1R and MC5R was detected in both native and ex vivo-perfused lungs. The results indicate that NDP-MSH administration preserves lung function through broad positive effects on multiple pathways and suggest that exploitation of the melanocortin system during EVLP could improve reconditioning of marginal lungs before transplantation.
Assuntos
Pulmão/efeitos dos fármacos , Pulmão/fisiologia , Perfusão/métodos , alfa-MSH/análogos & derivados , Trifosfato de Adenosina/metabolismo , Animais , Morte , Ácido Hialurônico/metabolismo , Mediadores da Inflamação/metabolismo , Ácido Láctico/metabolismo , Pulmão/fisiopatologia , Masculino , Técnicas de Cultura de Órgãos , Perfusão/efeitos adversos , Edema Pulmonar/etiologia , Ratos Sprague-Dawley , Receptores de Melanocortina/genética , Receptores de Melanocortina/metabolismo , Traumatismo por Reperfusão/prevenção & controle , alfa-MSH/farmacologiaRESUMO
In Italy, 20 minutes of a continuous flat line on an electrocardiogram are required for declaration of death. In the setting of donation after circulatory death (DCD), prolonged warm ischemia time prompted the introduction of abdominal normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) followed by postprocurement ex situ machine perfusion (MP). This is a retrospective review of DCD liver transplantations (LTs) performed at 2 centers using sequential NRP and ex situ MP. From January 2018 to April 2019, 34 DCD donors were evaluated. Three (8.8%) were discarded before NRP, and 11 (32.4%) were discarded based on NRP parameters (n = 1, 3.0%), liver macroscopic appearance at procurement and/or biopsy results (n = 9, 26.5%), or severe macroangiopathy at back-table evaluation (n = 1, 3.0%). A total of 20 grafts (58.8%; 11 uncontrolled DCDs, 9 controlled DCDs) were considered eligible for LT, procured and perfused ex situ (9 normothermic and 11 dual hypothermic MPs). In total, 18 (52.9%; 11 uncontrolled) livers were eventually transplanted. Median (interquartile range) no-flow time was 32.5 (30-39) minutes, whereas median functional warm ischemia time was 52.5 (47-74) minutes (controlled DCD), and median low-flow time was 112 minutes (105-129 minutes; uncontrolled DCD). There was no primary nonfunction, while postreperfusion syndrome occurred in 8 (44%) recipients. Early allograft dysfunction happened in 5 (28%) patients, while acute kidney injury occurred in 5 (28%). After a median follow-up of 15.1 (9.5-22.3) months, 1 case of ischemic-type biliary lesions and 1 patient death were reported. DCD LT is feasible even with the 20-minute no-touch rule. Strict NRP and ex situ MP selection criteria are needed to optimize postoperative results.
Assuntos
Transplante de Fígado , Sobrevivência de Enxerto , Humanos , Itália , Transplante de Fígado/efeitos adversos , Preservação de Órgãos , Perfusão , Estudos Retrospectivos , Doadores de TecidosRESUMO
The clinical hallmarks of infections caused by critical respiratory viruses consist of pneumonia, which can progress to acute lung injury (ALI), and systemic manifestations including hypercoagulopathy, vascular dysfunction, and endotheliitis. The disease outcome largely depends on the immune response produced by the host. The bio-molecular mechanisms underlying certain dire consequences of the infection partly arise from an aberrant production of inflammatory molecules, an event denoted as "cytokine storm". Therefore, in addition to antiviral therapies, molecules able to prevent the injury caused by cytokine excess are under investigation. In this perspective, taking advantage of melanocortin peptides and their receptors, components of an endogenous modulatory system that exerts marked anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory influences, could be an effective therapeutic strategy to control disease evolution. Exploiting the melanocortin system using natural or synthetic ligands can form a realistic basis to counteract certain deleterious effects of respiratory virus infections. The central and peripheral protective actions exerted following melanocortin receptor activation could allow dampening the harmful events that trigger the cytokine storm and endothelial dysfunction while sustaining the beneficial signals required to elicit repair mechanisms. The long standing evidence for melanocortin safety encourages this approach.
Assuntos
Tratamento Farmacológico da COVID-19 , Receptores de Melanocortina/agonistas , Infecções Respiratórias/tratamento farmacológico , Lesão Pulmonar Aguda/tratamento farmacológico , Animais , Anti-Inflamatórios/uso terapêutico , COVID-19/complicações , Síndrome da Liberação de Citocina/tratamento farmacológico , Síndrome da Liberação de Citocina/etiologia , Citocinas/metabolismo , Humanos , Hormônios Estimuladores de Melanócitos/metabolismo , Infecções Respiratórias/etiologia , Infecções Respiratórias/metabolismoRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Lung ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury contributes to the development of severe complications in patients undergoing transplantation. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) exert beneficial actions comparable to those of MSCs without the risks of the cell-based strategy. This research investigated EV effects during IR injury in isolated rat lungs. METHODS: An established model of 180-minutes ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) was used. At 60 minutes EVs (nâ¯=â¯5) or saline (nâ¯=â¯5) were administered. Parallel experiments used labeled EVs to determine EV biodistribution (nâ¯=â¯4). Perfusate samples were collected to perform gas analysis and to assess the concentration of nitric oxide (NO), hyaluronan (HA), inflammatory mediators, and leukocytes. Lung biopsies were taken at 180 minutes to evaluate HA, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), gene expression, and histology. RESULTS: Compared with untreated lungs, EV-treated organs showed decreased vascular resistance and a rise of perfusate NO metabolites. EVs prevented the reduction in pulmonary ATP caused by IR. Increased medium-high-molecular-weight HA was detected in the perfusate and in the lung tissue of the IRâ¯+â¯EV group. Significant differences in cell count on perfusate and tissue samples, together with induction of transcription and synthesis of chemokines, suggested EV-dependent modulation of leukocyte recruitment. EVs upregulated genes involved in the resolution of inflammation and oxidative stress. Biodistribution analysis showed that EVs were retained in the lung tissue and internalized within pulmonary cells. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows multiple novel EV influences on pulmonary energetics, tissue integrity, and gene expression during IR. The use of cell-free therapies during EVLP could constitute a valuable strategy for reconditioning and repair of injured lungs before transplantation.
Assuntos
Vesículas Extracelulares/transplante , Pulmão/irrigação sanguínea , Células-Tronco Mesenquimais/ultraestrutura , Traumatismo por Reperfusão/prevenção & controle , Animais , Fenótipo , Ratos , Traumatismo por Reperfusão/genéticaRESUMO
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most common and severe forms of muscular dystrophy. Oxidative myofibre content, muscle vasculature architecture and exercise tolerance are impaired in DMD. Several studies have demonstrated that nutrient supplements ameliorate dystrophic features, thereby enhancing muscle performance. Here, we report that dietary supplementation with a specific branched-chain amino acid-enriched mixture (BCAAem) increased the abundance of oxidative muscle fibres associated with increased muscle endurance in dystrophic mdx mice. Amelioration of the fatigue index in BCAAem-treated mdx mice was caused by a cascade of events in the muscle tissue, which were promoted by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activation and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. VEGF induction led to recruitment of bone marrow (BM)-derived endothelial progenitors (EPs), which increased the capillary density of dystrophic skeletal muscle. Functionally, BCAAem mitigated the dystrophic phenotype of mdx mice without inducing dystrophin protein expression or replacing the dystrophin-associated glycoprotein (DAG) complex in the membrane, which is typically lost in DMD. BCAAem supplementation could be an effective adjuvant strategy in DMD treatment.
Assuntos
Aminoácidos/administração & dosagem , Suplementos Nutricionais , Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne/dietoterapia , Animais , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Células Progenitoras Endoteliais/efeitos dos fármacos , Células Progenitoras Endoteliais/metabolismo , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Camundongos , Camundongos Endogâmicos C57BL , Camundongos Endogâmicos mdx , Camundongos Knockout , Fibras Musculares Esqueléticas/efeitos dos fármacos , Fibras Musculares Esqueléticas/metabolismo , Fibras Musculares Esqueléticas/patologia , Força Muscular/efeitos dos fármacos , Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne/genética , Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne/patologia , Óxido Nítrico Sintase Tipo III/genética , Óxido Nítrico Sintase Tipo III/metabolismo , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Resistência Física/efeitos dos fármacos , Fator A de Crescimento do Endotélio Vascular/metabolismoRESUMO
BACKGROUND: The leading cause of early mortality after lung transplantation is Primary graft dysfunction (PGD). We assessed the lung inflammation, inflation status and inhomogeneities after lung transplantation. Our purpose was to investigate the possible differences between patients who did or did not develop PGD. METHODS: We designed a prospective observational study enrolling patients who underwent a CT-PET study within 1 week after lung transplantation. Twenty-four patients (10 after double- and 14 after single-lung) were enrolled. Respiratory and hemodynamic data were collected before, during and after lung transplantation. Each patient underwent computed tomography-positron emission tomography (CT-PET) scan early after surgery. Broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) fluid collection was performed to analyze inflammatory mediators. RESULTS: The grafts showed a [18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) uptake rate of 26[18-33]*10-4 mLblood/mLtissue/min (reference values 11[7-15]*10-4). Three double- and six single-lung recipients developed PGD. The grafts of patients who developed PGD had similar [18F]FDG uptake than grafts of patients who did not (28[18-26]*10-4 versus 26[22-31]*10-4, P=0.79). Not-inflated tissue fraction was significantly higher (28[20-38]% versus 14[7-21]%, P=0.01) while well-inflated fraction was significantly lower (29[25-41]% versus 53[39-65]%, P<0.01). Inhomogeneity extent was higher in patients who developed PGD (23[18-26]% versus 14[10-20]%, P=0.01)The lung weight was 650[591-820]g versus 597[480-650]g (P=0.09)). BAL fluid analysis for inflammatory mediators did not detect a difference between the study groups. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to healthy lungs, all the grafts showed increased [18F]FDG uptake rate, but there were no differences between patients who developed PGD and patients who did not. Of note, the PGD patients showed a worse inflation status of lungs and a higher inhomogeneity extent.
Assuntos
Transplante de Pulmão , Pneumonia/diagnóstico por imagem , Tomografia por Emissão de Pósitrons combinada à Tomografia Computadorizada , Complicações Pós-Operatórias/diagnóstico por imagem , Disfunção Primária do Enxerto/diagnóstico por imagem , Fluordesoxiglucose F18 , Humanos , Estudos Prospectivos , Compostos RadiofarmacêuticosRESUMO
Despite increasing clinical adoption, biologic influences of ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) remain insufficiently elucidated. The aim of the current study was to investigate biomolecular changes induced by EVLP in rat lungs. EVLP was maintained for 180 min. Hyaluronan, mediators, and cells were assessed in the perfusate. Gene expression, signaling pathways, and ATP content were investigated in lung tissue. EVLP induced the release of medium-high molecular weight hyaluronan and transcription of hyaluronan synthases ( P < 0.001). Increasing concentrations of inflammatory mediators were detected in the perfusate ( P < 0.001). Perfused lungs exhibited a distinctive transcriptional signature compared with organs examined before or after surgery/procurement ( P = 0.003). Up-regulated genes were involved in inflammation and its regulation, apoptosis/survival, heat shock, and oxidative stress response ( q = 0). Down-regulated genes were related to lymphocyte function ( q = 0). The NF-κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, ERK1/2, p38, Akt, and stress-activated protein kinase/JNK signaling pathways were modulated by EVLP ( P < 0.05). Most of these biomolecular changes were examined and confirmed in additional experiments that were performed in lungs procured from donation after cardiocirculatory death after 180 min of warm ischemia. The current study demonstrates that EVLP broadly affects the lung biomolecular phenotype. These findings improve our comprehension of the effects exerted by the procedure and encourage additional research in preclinical models to implement therapeutic interventions.-Lonati, C., Bassani, G. A., Brambilla, D., Leonardi, P., Carlin, A., Faversani, A., Gatti, S., Valenza, F. Influence of ex vivo perfusion on the biomolecular profile of rat lungs.
Assuntos
Apoptose , Resposta ao Choque Térmico , Pulmão/metabolismo , Sistema de Sinalização das MAP Quinases , Estresse Oxidativo , Perfusão , Animais , Sobrevivência Celular , MAP Quinases Reguladas por Sinal Extracelular/metabolismo , Hialuronan Sintases/metabolismo , Ácido Hialurônico/metabolismo , Masculino , Ratos , Ratos Sprague-DawleyRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating-hormone (α-MSH) has marked anti-inflammatory potential. Proinflammatory cytokines are critical mediators of the disturbed cartilage homeostasis in osteoarthritis, inhibiting anabolic activities and increasing catabolic activities in chondrocytes. Since human chondrocytes express α-MSH receptors, we evaluated the role of the peptide in modulating chondrocyte production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) in response to interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). METHODS: Human articular chondrocytes were obtained from osteoarthritic joint cartilage from subjects undergoing hip routine arthroplasty procedures. The cells were cultured with or without α-MSH in the presence of IL-1ß or TNF-α. Cell-free supernatants were collected and cells immediately lysed for RNA purification. Expression of cytokines, MMPs, TIMPs, iNOS was determined by Reverse Transcription Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Griess reaction was used for NO quantification. RESULTS: Gene expression and secretion of IL-6, IL-8, MMP-3, MMP-13 were significantly increased in IL-1ß or TNF-α-stimulated chondrocytes; α-MSH did not modify the release of IL-6 or IL-8 while the peptide significantly reduced their gene expression on TNF-α-stimulated cells. A significant inhibition of MMP3 gene expression and secretion from IL-1ß or TNFα-stimulated chondrocytes was induced by α-MSH. On the other hand, α-MSH did not modify the release of MMP-13 by cytokine-stimulated chondrocyte but significantly decreased gene expression of the molecule on TNF-α-stimulated cells. Detectable amount of TIMP-3 and TIMP-4 were present in the supernatants of resting chondrocytes and a significant increase of TIMP-3 gene expression and release was induced by α-MSH on unstimulated cells. TIMP-3 secretion and gene expression were significantly increased in IL-1ß-stimulated chondrocytes and α-MSH down-regulated gene expression but not secretion of the molecule. TIMP-4 gene expression (but not secretion) was moderately induced in IL-1ß-stimulated chondrocytes with a down-regulation exerted by α-MSH. IL-1ß and TNF-α were potent stimuli for NO production and iNOS gene expression by chondrocytes; no inhibition was induced by α-MSH on cytokine-stimulated NO production, while the peptide significantly reduced gene expression of iNOS. CONCLUSIONS: Our results underscore a potential anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective activity exerted by α-MSH, increasing TIMP-3 gene expression and release on resting cells and down- modulating TNF-α-induced activation of human chondrocytes. However, the discrepancy between the influences exerted by α-MSH on gene expression and protein release as well as the difference in the inhibitory pattern exerted by α-MSH in TNF-α- or IL-1ß-stimulated cells leave some uncertainty on the role of the peptide on chondrocyte modulation.
Assuntos
Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Condrócitos/efeitos dos fármacos , Mediadores da Inflamação/farmacologia , Interleucina-1beta/farmacologia , Osteoartrite do Quadril/metabolismo , Fator de Necrose Tumoral alfa/farmacologia , alfa-MSH/análogos & derivados , Células Cultivadas , Condrócitos/imunologia , Condrócitos/metabolismo , Regulação da Expressão Gênica , Humanos , Interleucina-6/genética , Interleucina-6/metabolismo , Interleucina-8/genética , Interleucina-8/metabolismo , Metaloproteinases da Matriz/genética , Metaloproteinases da Matriz/metabolismo , Óxido Nítrico/metabolismo , Óxido Nítrico Sintase Tipo II/genética , Óxido Nítrico Sintase Tipo II/metabolismo , Osteoartrite do Quadril/genética , Osteoartrite do Quadril/imunologia , Inibidores Teciduais de Metaloproteinases/genética , Inibidores Teciduais de Metaloproteinases/metabolismo , alfa-MSH/farmacologiaRESUMO
BACKGROUND: We set a model of brain death, donor management, and lung transplantation for studies on lung preservation and reconditioning before transplantation. METHODS: Ten pigs (39.7 ± 5.9 Kg) were investigated. Five animals underwent brain death and were treated as organ donors; the lungs were then procured and cold stored (Ischemia). Five recipients underwent left lung transplantation and post-reperfusion follow-up (Graft). Cardiorespiratory and metabolic parameters were collected. Lung gene expression of cytokines (tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon gamma (IFNγ), high mobility group box-1 (HMGB-1)), chemokines (chemokine CC motif ligand-2 (CCL2-MCP-1), chemokine CXC motif ligand-10 (CXCL-10), interleukin-8 (IL-8)), and endothelial activation markers (endothelin-1 (EDN-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), selectin-E (SELE)) was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: Tachycardia and hypertension occurred during brain death induction; cardiac output rose, systemic vascular resistance dropped (P < 0.05), and diabetes insipidus occurred. Lung-protective ventilation strategy was applied: 9 h after brain death induction, PaO2 was 192 ± 12 mmHg at positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) 8.0 ± 1.8 cmH2O and FiO2 of 40%; wet-to-dry ratio (W/D) was 5.8 ± 0.5, and extravascular lung water (EVLW) was 359 ± 80 mL. Procured lungs were cold-stored for 471 ± 24 min (Ischemia) at the end of which W/D was 6.1 ± 0.9. Left lungs were transplanted and reperfused (warm ischemia 98 ± 14 min). Six hours after controlled reperfusion, PaO2 was 192 ± 23 mmHg (PEEP 8.7 ± 1.5 cmH2O, FiO2 40%), W/D was 5.6 ± 0.4, and EVLW was 366 ± 117 mL. Levels of IL-8 rose at the end of donor management (BD, P < 0.05); CCL2-MCP-1, IL-8, HMGB-1, and SELE were significantly altered after reperfusion (Graft, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We have set a standardized, reproducible pig model resembling the entire process of organ donation that may be used as a platform to test in vivo and ex vivo strategies of donor lung optimization before transplantation.
RESUMO
Melanocortins are endogenous peptides that exert protective actions on the host physiology. The broad modulatory effects of these molecules suggest that they might influence the mediator network induced during liver regeneration. The research aim was to determine if melanocortin treatment alters liver molecular changes induced by partial hepatectomy (PH). Rats under isoflurane anesthesia were subjected to standard 70% PH or sham surgery. Animals received a single i.v. injection of Nle4, DPhe7-α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (NDP-MSH) or saline 30 min before surgery. Sacrifice was performed at time intervals between 4 and 72 h. A preliminary screening based on TaqMan low-density array (TLDA) identified 71 transcripts altered by PH. Real-time PCR analysis revealed that NDP-MSH modulated the expression of a substantial proportion of these transcripts including several chemokines and their receptors. The critical signaling pathway interleukin-6 (IL-6)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)/suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) was significantly enhanced by NDP-MSH. Further, peptide treatment considerably reduced the decline of IκBα protein caused by PH. Although the final organ regeneration was not substantially affected, NDP-MSH modulated expression of cell cycle mediators and exerted subtle influences on hepatocyte replication. Most of the changes brought about by NDP-MSH, a peptide approved for clinical use, should be salutary during liver regeneration.
Assuntos
Regulação da Expressão Gênica/efeitos dos fármacos , Hepatectomia , Regeneração Hepática/efeitos dos fármacos , Fígado/efeitos dos fármacos , RNA Mensageiro/genética , alfa-MSH/análogos & derivados , Animais , Ciclo Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Ciclo Celular/genética , Proteínas de Ciclo Celular/genética , Proteínas de Ciclo Celular/metabolismo , Proliferação de Células/efeitos dos fármacos , Quimiocinas/genética , Quimiocinas/metabolismo , Perfilação da Expressão Gênica , Hepatócitos/citologia , Hepatócitos/efeitos dos fármacos , Hepatócitos/metabolismo , Injeções Intravenosas , Fígado/citologia , Fígado/cirurgia , Regeneração Hepática/genética , Masculino , RNA Mensageiro/metabolismo , Ratos , Ratos Sprague-Dawley , Receptores de Quimiocinas/genética , Receptores de Quimiocinas/metabolismo , Transdução de Sinais , alfa-MSH/farmacologiaRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Melanocortin peptides improve hemodynamic parameters and prevent death during severe hemorrhagic shock. In the present research we determined influences of a synthetic melanocortin 1/4 receptor agonist on the molecular changes that occur in rat liver during hemorrhage. METHODS: Controlled-volume hemorrhage was performed in adult rats under general anesthesia by a stepwise blood withdrawal until mean arterial pressure fell to 40 mmHg. Then rats received either saline or the synthetic melanocortin 1/4 receptor agonist Butir-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Sar-NH2 (Ro27-3225; n = 6-8 per group). Hemogasanalysis was performed throughout a 60-min period. Gene expression in liver samples was determined at 1 or 3 h using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: At 1 h, in saline-treated shocked rats, there were significant increases in activating transcription factor 3 (Atf3), early growth response 1 (Egr1), heme oxygenase (decycling) 1 (Hmox1), FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homolog (Fos), and jun oncogene (Jun). These changes were prevented by Ro27-3225 (mean ± SEM: Atf3 152.83 ± 58.62 vs. 579.00 ± 124.13, P = 0.002; Egr1 13.21 ± 1.28 vs. 26.63 ± 1.02, P = 0.001; Hmox1 3.28 ± 0.31 vs. 166.54 ± 35.03, P = 0.002; Fos 4.36 ± 1.03 vs. 14.90 ± 3.44, P < 0.001; Jun 6.62 ± 1.93 vs. 15.07 ± 2.09, P = 0.005; respectively). Increases in alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2m), heat shock 70kD protein 1A (Hspa1a), erythropoietin (Epo), and interleukin-6 (Il6) occurred at 3 h in shocked rats and were prevented by Ro27-3225 treatment (A2m 6.90 ± 0.82 vs. 36.73 ± 4.00, P < 0.001; Hspa1a 10.34 ± 3.28 vs. 25.72 ± 3.64, P = 0.001; Epo 0.49 ± 0.13 vs. 2.37 ± 0.73, P = 0.002; Il6 1.05 ± 0.15 vs. 1.88 ± 0.23, P < 0.001; respectively). Further, at 3 h in shocked rats treated with Ro27-3225 there were significant increases in tight junction protein 1 (Tjp1; 27.30 ± 2.43 vs. 5.03 ± 1.68, P < 0.001) and nuclear receptor subfamily 4, group A, member 1 (Nr4a1; 91.03 ± 16.20 vs. 30.43 ± 11.0, P = 0.01) relative to sham animals. Treatment with Ro27-3225 rapidly restored blood pressure, hemogasanalysis parameters, and lactate blood levels. CONCLUSIONS: Melanocortin treatment significantly prevents most of the systemic and hepatic detrimental changes induced by hemorrhage.
Assuntos
Melanocortinas/uso terapêutico , Peptídeos/uso terapêutico , Choque Hemorrágico/tratamento farmacológico , Choque Hemorrágico/metabolismo , Animais , Melanocortinas/metabolismo , Peptídeos/metabolismo , Ratos , Ratos Wistar , Receptor Tipo 1 de Melanocortina/agonistas , Receptor Tipo 1 de Melanocortina/fisiologia , Receptor Tipo 4 de Melanocortina/agonistas , Receptor Tipo 4 de Melanocortina/fisiologia , Choque Hemorrágico/genética , Resultado do TratamentoRESUMO
alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) is a pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived peptide that exerts multiple protective effects on host cells. Previous investigations showed that treatment with alpha-MSH or synthetic melanocortin agonists reduces heart damage in reperfusion injury and transplantation. The aim of this preclinical research was to determine whether melanocortin treatment induces preconditioning-like cardioprotection. In particular, the plan was to assess whether melanocortin administration causes phenotype changes similar to those induced by repetitive ischemic events. The idea was conceived because both ischemic preconditioning and melanocortin signaling largely depend on cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation. Rats received single i.v. injections of 750microg/kg of the alpha-MSH analogue Nle(4),DPhe(7)-alpha-MSH (NDP-MSH) or saline and were sacrificed at 0.5, 1, 3, or 5h. Western blot analysis showed that rat hearts expressed melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) protein. Treatment with NDP-MSH was associated with early and marked increase in interleukin 6 (IL-6) mRNA. This was followed by signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation and induction of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3). There were no changes in expression of other cytokines of the IL-6 family. Expression of IL-10, IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha was likewise unaltered. In hearts of rats treated with NDP-MSH there was increased expression of the orphan nuclear receptor Nur77. The data indicate that NDP-MSH induces phenotype changes that closely resemble ischemic preconditioning and likely contribute to its established protection against reperfusion injury. In addition, the increased expression of Nur77 and SOCS3 could be part of a broader anti-inflammatory effect.
Assuntos
Coração , Precondicionamento Isquêmico , Miocárdio/metabolismo , alfa-MSH/análogos & derivados , Animais , Proteína de Ligação ao Elemento de Resposta ao AMP Cíclico/metabolismo , Citocinas/genética , Citocinas/metabolismo , Proteínas de Ligação a DNA/genética , Proteínas de Ligação a DNA/metabolismo , Coração/anatomia & histologia , Coração/efeitos dos fármacos , Masculino , Proteínas do Tecido Nervoso/genética , Proteínas do Tecido Nervoso/metabolismo , Membro 1 do Grupo A da Subfamília 4 de Receptores Nucleares/genética , Membro 1 do Grupo A da Subfamília 4 de Receptores Nucleares/metabolismo , Membro 2 do Grupo A da Subfamília 4 de Receptores Nucleares/genética , Membro 2 do Grupo A da Subfamília 4 de Receptores Nucleares/metabolismo , Fenótipo , Ratos , Ratos Sprague-Dawley , Transdução de Sinais/fisiologia , Proteína 3 Supressora da Sinalização de Citocinas , Proteínas Supressoras da Sinalização de Citocina/genética , Proteínas Supressoras da Sinalização de Citocina/metabolismo , alfa-MSH/farmacologiaRESUMO
Prevention of graft dysfunction is a major objective in transplantation medicine. Previous research on experimental heart transplantation indicated that treatment with the immunomodulatory peptide alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) improves histopathology, prolongs allograft survival, and reduces expression of the main tissue injury mediators. Because calcium-handling is critical in heart graft function, we determined the effects of transplantation injury and influences of alpha-MSH treatment on representative calcium regulatory proteins in rat heart allografts. Hearts from Brown Norway rats were transplanted heterotopically into MHC incompatible Lewis rats. Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), protein kinase C epsilon (PKC epsilon), sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum calcium-ATPase 2 (SERCA2a), arrestin-beta1 (Arrb1), cholinergic receptor M2 (Chrm2), and inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor 1 (InsP(3)R1) were examined in: (1) non-transplanted donor hearts; (2) allografts from saline-treated rats; and (3) allografts from rats treated with the synthetic alpha-MSH analog Nle4-DPhe7-alpha-MSH (NDP-alpha-MSH) (100 microg i.p. every 12h). Transplantation injury was associated with severe reduction in calcium regulatory protein transcription and expression level. NDP-alpha-MSH administration partly reversed inhibition of protein transcription and almost completely prevented protein loss. Finally, because certain effects of cyclic 3'-5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling on calcium handling in cardiac myocytes depend on activation of exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1 (Epac1), we determined Epac1 mRNA and protein expression in heart allografts. Transplantation injury markedly reduced Epac1. NDP-alpha-MSH treatment significantly preserved both Epac1 protein and mRNA in the allografts. Administration of alpha-MSH or related melanocortins could reduce transplantation-induced dysfunction through protection of heart calcium regulatory proteins.