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1.
Arq Bras Cardiol ; 121(4): e20240113, 2024 Feb.
Article in Portuguese, English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38695411
2.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(9)2024 May 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38732272

ABSTRACT

Lung branching morphogenesis relies on intricate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and signaling networks. Still, the interplay between signaling and energy metabolism in shaping embryonic lung development remains unexplored. Retinoic acid (RA) signaling influences lung proximal-distal patterning and branching morphogenesis, but its role as a metabolic modulator is unknown. Hence, this study investigates how RA signaling affects the metabolic profile of lung branching. We performed ex vivo lung explant culture of embryonic chicken lungs treated with DMSO, 1 µM RA, or 10 µM BMS493. Extracellular metabolite consumption/production was evaluated by using 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis were also analyzed. Proliferation was assessed using an EdU-based assay. The expression of crucial metabolic/signaling components was examined through Western blot, qPCR, and in situ hybridization. RA signaling stimulation redirects glucose towards pyruvate and succinate production rather than to alanine or lactate. Inhibition of RA signaling reduces lung branching, resulting in a cystic-like phenotype while promoting mitochondrial function. Here, RA signaling emerges as a regulator of tissue proliferation and lactate dehydrogenase expression. Furthermore, RA governs fatty acid metabolism through an AMPK-dependent mechanism. These findings underscore RA's pivotal role in shaping lung metabolism during branching morphogenesis, contributing to our understanding of lung development and cystic-related lung disorders.


Subject(s)
Energy Metabolism , Lung , Morphogenesis , Signal Transduction , Tretinoin , Animals , Tretinoin/metabolism , Tretinoin/pharmacology , Lung/metabolism , Lung/drug effects , Lung/embryology , Energy Metabolism/drug effects , Morphogenesis/drug effects , Signal Transduction/drug effects , Chick Embryo , Cell Proliferation/drug effects , Mitochondria/metabolism , Mitochondria/drug effects , Chickens
4.
Toxicol Appl Pharmacol ; 486: 116929, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38608961

ABSTRACT

Atrazine (ATZ), a widely used herbicide with potent endocrine-disrupting properties, has been implicated in hormonal disturbances and fertility issues. Sertoli cells (SCs) play a crucial role in providing mechanical and nutritional support of spermatogenesis. Herein, we aimed to study the effects of environmentally relevant ATZ concentrations on the nutritional support of spermatogenesis provided by SCs. For that, mouse SCs (TM4) were exposed to increasing ATZ concentrations (in µg/L: 0.3, 3, 30, 300, or 3000). After 24 h, cellular proliferation and metabolic activity were assessed. Mitochondrial activity and endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were evaluated using JC-1 and CM-H2DCFDA probes, respectively. We also analyzed protein levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) using Western Blot and live cells glycolytic function through Seahorse XF Glycolysis Stress Test Kit. ATZ exposure decreased the activity of oxidoreductases in SCs, suggesting a decreased metabolic activity. Although ATZ is reported to induce oxidative stress, we did not observe alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS production across all tested concentrations. When we evaluated the glycolytic function of SCs, we observed that ATZ significantly impaired glycolysis and the glycolytic capacity at all tested concentrations. These results were supported by the decreased expression of LDH in SCs. Overall, our findings suggest that ATZ impairs the glycolytic function of SCs through LDH downregulation. Since lactate is the preferential energetic substrate for germ cells, exposure to ATZ may detrimentally impact the nutritional support crucial for spermatogenesis, hinting for a relationship between ATZ exposure and male infertility.


Subject(s)
Atrazine , Down-Regulation , Glycolysis , Herbicides , L-Lactate Dehydrogenase , Reactive Oxygen Species , Sertoli Cells , Animals , Male , Sertoli Cells/drug effects , Sertoli Cells/metabolism , Atrazine/toxicity , Mice , Glycolysis/drug effects , Herbicides/toxicity , L-Lactate Dehydrogenase/metabolism , Down-Regulation/drug effects , Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism , Membrane Potential, Mitochondrial/drug effects , Cell Line , Dose-Response Relationship, Drug , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Cell Proliferation/drug effects , Spermatogenesis/drug effects , Mitochondria/drug effects , Mitochondria/metabolism
5.
Vascul Pharmacol ; 155: 107372, 2024 Apr 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38583694

ABSTRACT

Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are important elements for the pathophysiology of preeclampsia (PE), a multisystemic hypertensive syndrome of pregnancy, characterized by endothelial dysfunction and responsible for a large part of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Researchers have dedicated their efforts to unraveling the intricate ways in which certain molecules influence both energy metabolism and oxidative stress. Exploring established methodologies from existing literature, shows that these investigations predominantly focus on the placenta, identified as a pivotal source that drives the changes observed in the disease. In this review, we discuss the role of oxidative stress in pathophysiology of PE, as well as metabolic/endothelial dysfunction. We further discuss the use of seahorse analyzers to study real-time bioenergetics of endothelial cells. Although the benefits are clear, few studies have presented results using this method to assess mitochondrial metabolism in these cells. We performed a search on MEDLINE/PubMed using the terms "Seahorse assay and endothelial dysfunction in HUVEC" as well as "Seahorse assay and preeclampsia". From our research, we selected 16 original peer-review papers for discussion. Notably, the first search retrieved studies involving Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) but none investigating bioenergetics in PE while the second search retrieved studies exploring the technique in PE but none of the studies used HUVECs. Additional studies are required to investigate real-time mitochondrial bioenergetics in PE. Clearly, there is a need for more complete studies to examine the nuances of mitochondrial bioenergetics, focusing on the contributions of HUVECs in the context of PE.

6.
Feitosa, Audes Diogenes de Magalhães; Barroso, Weimar Kunz Sebba; Mion Junior, Decio; Nobre, Fernando; Mota-Gomes, Marco Antonio; Jardim, Paulo Cesar Brandão Veiga; Amodeo, Celso; Oliveira, Adriana Camargo; Alessi, Alexandre; Sousa, Ana Luiza Lima; Brandão, Andréa Araujo; Pio-Abreu, Andrea; Sposito, Andrei C; Pierin, Angela Maria Geraldo; Paiva, Annelise Machado Gomes de; Spinelli, Antonio Carlos de Souza; Machado, Carlos Alberto; Poli-de-Figueiredo, Carlos Eduardo; Rodrigues, Cibele Isaac Saad; Forjaz, Claudia Lucia de Moraes; Sampaio, Diogo Pereira Santos; Barbosa, Eduardo Costa Duarte; Freitas, Elizabete Viana de; Cestario, Elizabeth do Espirito Santo; Muxfeldt, Elizabeth Silaid; Lima Júnior, Emilton; Feitosa, Fabiana Gomes Aragão Magalhães; Consolim-Colombo, Fernanda Marciano; Almeida, Fernando Antônio de; Silva, Giovanio Vieira da; Moreno Júnior, Heitor; Finimundi, Helius Carlos; Guimarães, Isabel Cristina Britto; Gemelli, João Roberto; Barreto Filho, José Augusto Soares; Vilela-Martin, José Fernando; Ribeiro, José Marcio; Yugar-Toledo, Juan Carlos; Magalhães, Lucélia Batista Neves Cunha; Drager, Luciano F; Bortolotto, Luiz Aparecido; Alves, Marco Antonio de Melo; Malachias, Marcus Vinícius Bolívar; Neves, Mario Fritsch Toros; Santos, Mayara Cedrim; Dinamarco, Nelson; Moreira Filho, Osni; Passarelli Júnior, Oswaldo; Vitorino, Priscila Valverde de Oliveira; Miranda, Roberto Dischinger; Bezerra, Rodrigo; Pedrosa, Rodrigo Pinto; Paula, Rogerio Baumgratz de; Okawa, Rogério Toshiro Passos; Póvoa, Rui Manuel dos Santos; Fuchs, Sandra C; Lima, Sandro Gonçalves de; Inuzuka, Sayuri; Ferreira-Filho, Sebastião Rodrigues; Fillho, Silvio Hock de Paffer; Jardim, Thiago de Souza Veiga; Guimarães Neto, Vanildo da Silva; Koch, Vera Hermina Kalika; Gusmão, Waléria Dantas Pereira; Oigman, Wille; Nadruz Junior, Wilson.
Arq. bras. cardiol ; 121(4): e20240113, abr.2024. ilus, tab
Article in Portuguese | CONASS, Sec. Est. Saúde SP, SESSP-IDPCPROD, Sec. Est. Saúde SP | ID: biblio-1552858
7.
Nat Rev Urol ; 2024 Mar 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38528255

ABSTRACT

Diets leading to caloric overload are linked to metabolic disorders and reproductive function impairment. Metabolic and hormonal abnormalities stand out as defining features of metabolic disorders, and substantially affect the functionality of the testis. Metabolic disorders induce testicular metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. The disruption of gastrointestinal, pancreatic, adipose tissue and testicular hormonal regulation induced by metabolic disorders can also contribute to a state of compromised fertility. In this Review, we will delve into the effects of high-fat diets and metabolic disorders on testicular metabolism and spermatogenesis, which are crucial elements for male reproductive function. Moreover, metabolic disorders have been shown to influence the epigenome of male gametes and might have a potential role in transmitting phenotype traits across generations. However, the existing evidence strongly underscores the unmet need to understand the mechanisms responsible for transgenerational paternal inheritance of male reproductive function impairment related to metabolic disorders. This knowledge could be useful for developing targeted interventions to prevent, counteract, and most of all break the perpetuation chain of male reproductive dysfunction associated with metabolic disorders across generations.

8.
Int J Nanomedicine ; 19: 2655-2673, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38500680

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system to enhance antitumor responses while minimizing off-target effects. Among the promising cancer-specific therapies, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has attracted significant attention. Methods: Here, we developed an ionizable lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform to deliver TRAIL mRNA (LNP-TRAIL) directly to the tumor microenvironment (TME) to induce tumor cell death. Our LNP-TRAIL was formulated via microfluidic mixing and the induction of tumor cell death was assessed in vitro. Next, we investigated the ability of LNP-TRAIL to inhibit colon cancer progression in vivo in combination with a TME normalization approach using Losartan (Los) or angiotensin 1-7 (Ang(1-7)) to reduce vascular compression and deposition of extracellular matrix in mice. Results: Our results demonstrated that LNP-TRAIL induced tumor cell death in vitro and effectively inhibited colon cancer progression in vivo, particularly when combined with TME normalization induced by treatment Los or Ang(1-7). In addition, potent tumor cell death as well as enhanced apoptosis and necrosis was found in the tumor tissue of a group treated with LNP-TRAIL combined with TME normalization. Discussion: Together, our data demonstrate the potential of the LNP to deliver TRAIL mRNA to the TME and to induce tumor cell death, especially when combined with TME normalization. Therefore, these findings provide important insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the immunotherapy of solid tumors.


Subject(s)
Colonic Neoplasms , Liposomes , Nanoparticles , Tumor Microenvironment , Animals , Mice , Ligands , Apoptosis , Colonic Neoplasms/drug therapy , Colonic Neoplasms/genetics , Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha , TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand/metabolism
9.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(6)2024 Mar 18.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38542390

ABSTRACT

In arterial hypertension, the dysregulation of several metabolic pathways is closely associated with chronic immune imbalance and inflammation progression. With time, these disturbances lead to the development of progressive disease and end-organ involvement. However, the influence of cholecalciferol on metabolic pathways as a possible mechanism of its immunomodulatory activity in obesity-related hypertension is not known. In a phase 2, randomized, single-center, 24-week trial, we evaluated, as a secondary outcome, the serum metabolome of 36 age- and gender-matched adults with obesity-related hypertension and vitamin D deficiency, before and after supplementation with cholecalciferol therapy along with routine medication. The defined endpoint was the assessment of circulating metabolites using a nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomics approach. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the systemic metabolic alterations caused by cholecalciferol. In comparison with normotensive controls, hypertensive patients presented overall decreased expression of several amino acids (p < 0.05), including amino acids with ketogenic and glucogenic properties as well as aromatic amino acids. Following cholecalciferol supplementation, increases were observed in glutamine (p < 0.001) and histidine levels (p < 0.05), with several other amino acids remaining unaffected. Glucose (p < 0.05) and acetate (p < 0.05) decreased after 24 weeks in the group taking the supplement, and changes in the saturation of fatty acids (p < 0.05) were also observed, suggesting a role of liposoluble vitamin D in lipid metabolism. Long-term cholecalciferol supplementation in chronically obese and overweight hypertensives induced changes in the blood serum metabolome, which reflected systemic metabolism and may have fostered a new microenvironment for cell proliferation and biology. Of note, the increased availability of glutamine may be relevant for the proliferation of different T-cell subsets.


Subject(s)
Hypertension , Vitamin D Deficiency , Adult , Humans , Cholecalciferol/pharmacology , Cholecalciferol/therapeutic use , Glutamine/therapeutic use , Glucose/therapeutic use , Vitamin D/therapeutic use , Obesity/complications , Obesity/drug therapy , Dietary Supplements , Vitamin D Deficiency/complications , Hypertension/complications , Hypertension/drug therapy , Amino Acids/metabolism , Double-Blind Method
10.
Nat Commun ; 15(1): 590, 2024 Jan 18.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38238326

ABSTRACT

A safe and effective vaccine with long-term protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) is a global health priority. Here, we develop lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to provide safe and effective delivery of plasmid DNA (pDNA) and show protection against VOCs in female small animal models. Using a library of LNPs encapsulating unique barcoded DNA (b-DNA), we screen for b-DNA delivery after intramuscular administration. The top-performing LNPs are further tested for their capacity of pDNA uptake in antigen-presenting cells in vitro. The lead LNP is used to encapsulate pDNA encoding the HexaPro version of SARS-CoV-2 spike (LNP-HPS) and immunogenicity and protection is tested in vivo. LNP-HPS elicit a robust protective effect against SARS-CoV-2 Gamma (P.1), correlating with reduced lethality, decreased viral load in the lungs and reduced lung damage. LNP-HPS induce potent humoral and T cell responses against P.1, and generate high levels of neutralizing antibodies against P.1 and Omicron (B.1.1.529). Our findings indicate that the protective efficacy and immunogenicity elicited by LNP-HPS are comparable to those achieved by the approved COVID-19 vaccine from Biontech/Pfizer in animal models. Together, these findings suggest that LNP-HPS hold great promise as a vaccine candidate against VOCs.


Subject(s)
COVID-19 , DNA, B-Form , Vaccines, DNA , Female , Animals , Humans , SARS-CoV-2/genetics , Vaccines, DNA/genetics , Nanovaccines , COVID-19 Vaccines , COVID-19/prevention & control , DNA , Antibodies, Neutralizing , Antibodies, Viral
11.
Iran J Basic Med Sci ; 27(1): 3-11, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38164482

ABSTRACT

The impact of diabetes on various organs failure including testis has been highlighted during the last decades. If on one hand diabetes-induced hyperglycemia has a key role in induced damages; on the other hand, glucose deprivation plays a key role in inducing male infertility. Indeed, glucose metabolism during spermatogenesis has been highlighted due to post-meiotic germ cells drastic dependence on glucose-derived metabolites, especially lactate. In fact, hyperglycemia-induced spermatogenesis arrest has been demonstrated in various studies. Moreover, various sperm maturation processes related to sperm function such as motility are directly depending on glucose metabolism in Sertoli cells. It has been demonstrated that diabetes-induced hyperglycemia adversely impacts sperm morphology, motility and DNA integrity, leading to infertility. However, fertility quality is another important factor to be considered. Diabetes-induced hyperglycemia is not only impacting sperm functions, but also affecting sperm epigenome. DNA packing process and epigenetics modifications occur during spermatogenesis process, determining next generation genetic quality transmitted through sperm. Critical damages may occur due to under- or downregulation of key proteins during spermatogenesis. Consequently, unpacked DNA is more exposed to oxidative stress, leading to intensive DNA damages. Moreover, epigenetic dysregulation occurred during spermatogenesis may impact embryo quality and be transmitted to next generations, increasing offspring genetic issues. Herein we discuss the mechanisms by which diabetes-induced hyperglycemia can affect epigenetic modifications and DNA packaging and methylation during spermatogenesis thus promoting long-lasting effects to the next generation.

12.
Reproduction ; 167(2)2024 Feb 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38019967

ABSTRACT

In brief: Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) regulate mitochondrial activity and reactive oxygen species production through the transport of protons and metabolites. This study identified the expression of UCPs in human Sertoli cells, which proved to be modulators of their mitochondrial activity. Abstract: Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) are mitochondrial channels responsible for the transport of protons and small molecular substrates across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Altered UCP expression or function is commonly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress, which are both known causes of male infertility. However, UCP expression and function in the human testis remain to be characterized. This study aimed to assess the UCP homologs (UCP1-6) expression and function in primary cultures of human Sertoli cells (hSCs). We identified the mRNA expression of all UCP homologs (UCP1-6) and protein expression of UCP1, UCP2, and UCP3 in hSCs. UCP inhibition by genipin for 24 h decreased hSCs proliferation without causing cytotoxicity (n = 6). Surprisingly, the prolonged UCP inhibition for 24 h decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, oxygen consumption rate (OCR), and endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The metabolism of hSCs was also affected as UCP inhibition shifted their metabolism toward an increased pyruvate consumption. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that UCPs play a role as regulators of the mitochondrial function in hSCs, emphasizing their potential as targets in the study of male (in)fertility.


Subject(s)
Ion Channels , Protons , Humans , Male , Mitochondrial Uncoupling Proteins , Ion Channels/genetics , Ion Channels/metabolism , Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism , Sertoli Cells/metabolism , Mitochondrial Proteins/genetics , Mitochondrial Proteins/metabolism , Testis/metabolism
13.
Nutrients ; 15(23)2023 Nov 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38068717

ABSTRACT

In recent decades, the escalating prevalence of metabolic disorders, notably obesity and being overweight, has emerged as a pressing concern in public health. Projections for the future indicate a continual upward trajectory in obesity rates, primarily attributable to unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles. The ramifications of obesity extend beyond its visible manifestations, intricately weaving a web of hormonal dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. This nexus of factors holds particular significance in the context of carcinogenesis, notably in the case of prostate cancer (PCa), which is a pervasive malignancy and a leading cause of mortality among men. A compelling hypothesis arises from the perspective of transgenerational inheritance, wherein genetic and epigenetic imprints associated with obesity may wield influence over the development of PCa. This review proposes a comprehensive exploration of the nuanced mechanisms through which obesity disrupts prostate homeostasis and serves as a catalyst for PCa initiation. Additionally, it delves into the intriguing interplay between the transgenerational transmission of both obesity-related traits and the predisposition to PCa. Drawing insights from a spectrum of sources, ranging from in vitro and animal model research to human studies, this review endeavors to discuss the intricate connections between obesity and PCa. However, the landscape remains partially obscured as the current state of knowledge unveils only fragments of the complex mechanisms linking these phenomena. As research advances, unraveling the associated factors and underlying mechanisms promises to unveil novel avenues for understanding and potentially mitigating the nexus between obesity and the development of PCa.


Subject(s)
Epigenesis, Genetic , Prostatic Neoplasms , Male , Animals , Humans , Obesity/complications , Obesity/epidemiology , Obesity/genetics , Prostatic Neoplasms/etiology , Prostatic Neoplasms/genetics , Prostate/metabolism , Disease Susceptibility
14.
Almeida, André Luiz Cerqueira; Melo, Marcelo Dantas Tavares de; Bihan, David Costa de Souza Le; Vieira, Marcelo Luiz Campos; Pena, José Luiz Barros; Del Castillo, José Maria; Abensur, Henry; Hortegal, Renato de Aguiar; Otto, Maria Estefania Bosco; Piveta, Rafael Bonafim; Dantas, Maria Rosa; Assef, Jorge Eduardo; Beck, Adenalva Lima de Souza; Santo, Thais Harada Campos Espirito; Silva, Tonnison de Oliveira; Salemi, Vera Maria Cury; Rocon, Camila; Lima, Márcio Silva Miguel; Barberato, Silvio Henrique; Rodrigues, Ana Clara; Rabschkowisky, Arnaldo; Frota, Daniela do Carmo Rassi; Gripp, Eliza de Almeida; Barretto, Rodrigo Bellio de Mattos; Silva, Sandra Marques e; Cauduro, Sanderson Antonio; Pinheiro, Aurélio Carvalho; Araujo, Salustiano Pereira de; Tressino, Cintia Galhardo; Silva, Carlos Eduardo Suaide; Monaco, Claudia Gianini; Paiva, Marcelo Goulart; Fisher, Cláudio Henrique; Alves, Marco Stephan Lofrano; Grau, Cláudia R. Pinheiro de Castro; Santos, Maria Veronica Camara dos; Guimarães, Isabel Cristina Britto; Morhy, Samira Saady; Leal, Gabriela Nunes; Soares, Andressa Mussi; Cruz, Cecilia Beatriz Bittencourt Viana; Guimarães Filho, Fabio Villaça; Assunção, Bruna Morhy Borges Leal; Fernandes, Rafael Modesto; Saraiva, Roberto Magalhães; Tsutsui, Jeane Mike; Soares, Fábio Luis de Jesus; Falcão, Sandra Nívea dos Reis Saraiva; Hotta, Viviane Tiemi; Armstrong, Anderson da Costa; Hygidio, Daniel de Andrade; Miglioranza, Marcelo Haertel; Camarozano, Ana Cristina; Lopes, Marly Maria Uellendahl; Cerci, Rodrigo Julio; Siqueira, Maria Eduarda Menezes de; Torreão, Jorge Andion; Rochitte, Carlos Eduardo; Felix, Alex.
Arq. bras. cardiol ; 120(12): e20230646, dez. 2023. tab, graf
Article in Portuguese | LILACS-Express | LILACS, SESSP-IDPCPROD, Sec. Est. Saúde SP | ID: biblio-1527794
15.
Metabolites ; 13(12)2023 Nov 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38132862

ABSTRACT

In recent years, the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has suffered a variety of alterations. Chemotherapy (CTX), immunotherapy (IT) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have shown remarkable results. However, not all patients with NSCLC respond to these drug treatments or receive durable benefits. In this framework, metabolomics has been applied to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of lung cancer and particularly lung adenocarcinoma (AdC). In our study, metabolomics was used to analyze plasma samples from 18 patients with AdC treated with CTX or IT via 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Relevant clinical information was gathered, and several biochemical parameters were also evaluated throughout the treatments. During the follow-up of patients undergoing CTX or IT, imaging control is recommended in order to assess the effectiveness of the therapy. This evaluation is usually performed every three treatments. Based on this procedure, all the samples were collected before the beginning of the treatment and after three and six treatments. The identified and quantified metabolites in the analyzed plasma samples were the following: isoleucine, valine, alanine, acetate, lactate, glucose, tyrosine, and formate. Multivariate/univariate statistical analyses were performed. Our data are in accordance with previous published results, suggesting that the plasma glucose levels of patients under CTX become higher throughout the course of treatment, which we hypothesize could be related to the tumor response to the therapy. It was also found that alanine levels become lower during treatment with CTX regimens, a fact that could be associated with frailty. NMR spectra of long responders' profiles also showed similar results. Based on the results of the study, metabolomics can represent a potential option for future studies, in order to facilitate patient selection and the monitoring of therapy efficacy in treated patients with AdC. Further studies are needed to improve the prospective identification of predictive markers, particularly glucose and alanine levels, as well as confer guidance to NSCLC treatment and patient stratification, thus avoiding ineffective therapeutic strategies.

16.
BMC Biol ; 21(1): 255, 2023 11 13.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37953286

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The concept of the inheritance of acquired traits, a foundational principle of Lamarck's evolutionary theory, has garnered renewed attention in recent years. Evidence for this phenomenon remained limited for decades but gained prominence with the Överkalix cohort study in 2002. This study revealed a link between cardiovascular disease incidence and the food availability experienced by individuals' grandparents during their slow growth periods, reigniting interest in the inheritance of acquired traits, particularly in the context of non-communicable diseases. This scientometric analysis and systematic review comprehensively explores the current landscape of paternally transmitted acquired metabolic traits. RESULTS: Utilizing Scopus Advanced search and meticulous screening, we included mammalian studies that document the inheritance or modification of metabolic traits in subsequent generations of unexposed descendants. Our inclusive criteria encompass intergenerational and transgenerational studies, as well as multigenerational exposures. Predominantly, this field has been driven by a select group of researchers, potentially shaping the design and focus of existing studies. Consequently, the literature primarily comprises transgenerational rodent investigations into the effects of ancestral exposure to environmental pollutants on sperm DNA methylation. The complexity and volume of data often lead to multiple or redundant publications. This practice, while understandable, may obscure the true extent of the impact of ancestral exposures on the health of non-exposed descendants. In addition to DNA methylation, studies have illuminated the role of sperm RNAs and histone marks in paternally acquired metabolic disorders, expanding our understanding of the mechanisms underlying epigenetic inheritance. CONCLUSIONS: This review serves as a comprehensive resource, shedding light on the current state of research in this critical area of science, and underscores the need for continued exploration to uncover the full spectrum of paternally mediated metabolic inheritance.


Subject(s)
Epigenesis, Genetic , Paternal Inheritance , Humans , Animals , Male , Cohort Studies , Semen , DNA Methylation , Mammals
17.
Obes Surg ; 33(12): 3988-3998, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37910328

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Remission of type 2 diabetes (T2D) can be achieved by many, but not all, people following bariatric/metabolic surgery. The mechanisms underlying T2D remission remain incompletely understood. This observational study aimed to identify novel weight-loss independent clinical, metabolic and genetic factors that associate with T2D remission using comprehensive phenotyping. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients without T2D remission (non-remitters) were matched to 10 patients with T2D remission (remitters) for age, sex, type of surgery, body weight, BMI, post-operative weight loss, duration from surgery and duration of T2D. Detailed body composition assessed using magnetic resonance imaging, gut hormones, serum metabolomics, insulin sensitivity, and genetic risk scores for T2D and anthropometric traits were assessed. RESULTS: Remitters had significantly greater ß-cell function and circulating acyl ghrelin levels, but lower visceral adipose tissue (VAT): subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) ratio than non-remitters. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and VLDL particle size were the most discriminant metabolites between groups. A significant positive correlation between, VAT area, VAT:SAT ratio and circulating levels of BCAAs was observed, whereas a significant negative correlation between BCAAs and ß-cell function was revealed. CONCLUSION: We highlight a potentially novel relationship between VAT and BCAAs, which may play a role in glucoregulatory control. Improvement in ß-cell function, and the role ghrelin plays in its recovery, is likely another key factor influencing T2D remission post-surgery. These findings suggest that adjunctive approaches that target VAT loss and restoration of BCAA metabolism might achieve higher rates of long-term T2D remission post-surgery.


Subject(s)
Bariatric Surgery , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 , Obesity, Morbid , Humans , Ghrelin , Obesity, Morbid/surgery , Treatment Outcome , Weight Loss , Biomarkers
18.
Antioxidants (Basel) ; 12(11)2023 Oct 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38001763

ABSTRACT

The association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and metabolic disorders is well-established; however, the underlying mechanisms that elucidate this relationship remain incompletely understood. Since the liver is a major organ in the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis, we hypothesize that liver dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of metabolic dysfunction associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Herein, we explored the underlying mechanisms of this association within the liver. Experiments were performed in male Wistar rats fed with a control or high fat (HF) diet (60% lipid-rich) for 12 weeks. Half of the groups were exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) (30 hypoxic (5% O2) cycles, 8 h/day) that mimics OSA, in the last 15 days. Insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance were assessed. Liver samples were collected for evaluation of lipid deposition, insulin signaling, glucose homeostasis, hypoxia, oxidative stress, antioxidant defenses, mitochondrial biogenesis and inflammation. Both the CIH and HF diet induced dysmetabolism, a state not aggravated in animals submitted to HF plus CIH. CIH aggravates hepatic lipid deposition in obese animals. Hypoxia-inducible factors levels were altered by these stimuli. CIH decreased the levels of oxidative phosphorylation complexes in both groups and the levels of SOD-1. The HF diet reduced mitochondrial density and hepatic antioxidant capacity. The CIH and HF diet produced alterations in cysteine-related thiols and pro-inflammatory markers. The results obtained suggest that hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, leading to inflammation, may be significant factors contributing to the development of dysmetabolism associated with OSA.

19.
PeerJ ; 11: e16219, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37953792

ABSTRACT

Corals are colonial animals within the Phylum Cnidaria that form coral reefs, playing a significant role in marine environments by providing habitat for fish, mollusks, crustaceans, sponges, algae, and other organisms. Global climate changes are causing more intense and frequent thermal stress events, leading to corals losing their color due to the disruption of a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic endosymbionts. Given the importance of corals to the marine environment, monitoring coral reefs is critical to understanding their response to anthropogenic impacts. Most coral monitoring activities involve underwater photographs, which can be costly to generate on large spatial scales and require processing and analysis that may be time-consuming. The Marine Ecology Laboratory (LECOM) at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) developed the project "#DeOlhoNosCorais" which encourages users to post photos of coral reefs on their social media (Instagram) using this hashtag, enabling people without previous scientific training to contribute to coral monitoring. The laboratory team identifies the species and gathers information on coral health along the Brazilian coast by analyzing each picture posted on social media. To optimize this process, we conducted baseline experiments for image classification and semantic segmentation. We analyzed the classification results of three different machine learning models using the Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations (LIME) algorithm. The best results were achieved by combining EfficientNet for feature extraction and Logistic Regression for classification. Regarding semantic segmentation, the U-Net Pix2Pix model produced a pixel-level accuracy of 86%. Our results indicate that this tool can enhance image selection for coral monitoring purposes and open several perspectives for improving classification performance. Furthermore, our findings can be expanded by incorporating other datasets to create a tool that streamlines the time and cost associated with analyzing coral reef images across various regions.


Subject(s)
Anthozoa , Humans , Animals , Anthozoa/physiology , Coral Reefs , Ecosystem , Crustacea , Fishes
20.
Int J Nanomedicine ; 18: 5891-5904, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37873551

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) cell therapy represents a hallmark in cancer immunotherapy, with significant clinical results in the treatment of hematological tumors. However, current approved methods to engineer T cells to express CAR use viral vectors, which are integrative and have been associated with severe adverse effects due to constitutive expression of CAR. In this context, non-viral vectors such as ionizable lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) arise as an alternative to engineer CAR T cells with transient expression of CAR. Methods: Here, we formulated a mini-library of LNPs to deliver pDNA to T cells by varying the molar ratios of excipient lipids in each formulation. LNPs were characterized and screened in vitro using a T cell line (Jurkat). The optimized formulation was used ex vivo to engineer T cells derived from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for the expression of an anti-CD19 CAR (CAR-CD19BBz). The effectiveness of these CAR T cells was assessed in vitro against Raji (CD19+) cells. Results: LNPs formulated with different molar ratios of excipient lipids efficiently delivered pDNA to Jurkat cells with low cytotoxicity compared to conventional transfection methods, such as electroporation and lipofectamine. We show that CAR-CD19BBz expression in T cells was transient after transfection with LNPs. Jurkat cells transfected with our top-performing LNPs underwent activation when exposed to CD19+ target cells. Using our top-performing LNP-9-CAR, we were able to engineer human primary T cells to express CAR-CD19BBz, which elicited significant specific killing of CD19+ target cells in vitro. Conclusion: Collectively, our results show that LNP-mediated delivery of pDNA is a suitable method to engineer human T cells to express CAR, which holds promise for improving the production methods and broader application of this therapy in the future.


Subject(s)
Excipients , Nanoparticles , Humans , Leukocytes, Mononuclear , Plasmids/genetics , DNA/genetics , Lipids
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