In vitro antiplasmodial activity of selected plants from the Colombian North Coast with low cytotoxicity.

Background: Plants are an important option in the treatment of malaria, especially in endemic regions, and are a less expensive and more accessible alternative with a lower risk of toxicity. Colombia has a great diversity of plants, and evaluation of natural extracts could result in the discovery of new compounds for the development of antimalarial drugs. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the in vitro antiplasmodial activity and the cytotoxicity of plant extracts from the Colombian North Coast against Plasmodium falciparum. Materials and Methods: The antiplasmodial activity of 12 plant species from the Colombian North Coast that are used in traditional medicine was evaluated through in vitro cultures of P. falciparum, and the cytotoxicity of extracts of these species to human cells was determined. Plant extracts with high antiplasmodial activity were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Results: Extracts from five plants had promising antiplasmodial activity. Specifically, Bursera simaruba (Burseraceae) (bark), Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. (Malvaceae) (whole plant), Murraya exotica L. (Rutaceae) (leaves), Hippomane mancinella L. (Euphorbiaceae) (seeds), and Capparis odoratissima Jacq. (Capparaceae) (leaves). Extracts presented 50% inhibitory concentration values between 1 and 9 µg/ml. Compared to no extract, these active plant extracts did not show cytotoxic effects on mononuclear cells or hemolytic activity in healthy human erythrocytes. Conclusions: The results obtained from this in vitro study of antiplasmodial activity suggest that active plant extracts from the Colombian North Coast are promising for future bioassay-guided fractionation to allow the isolation of active compounds and to elucidate their mechanism of action against Plasmodium spp.

Erythrocyte membrane proteins involved in the immune response to Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infection.

Invasion of Plasmodium into the red blood cell involves the interactions of a substantial number of proteins, with red cell membrane proteins as the most involved throughout the process from entry to exit. The objective of this work was to identify proteins of the human erythrocyte membrane capable of generating an antigenic response to P. falciparum and P. vivax infection, with the goal of searching for new molecular targets of interest with an immunological origin to prevent Plasmodium infection. To identify these proteins, an immunoproteomic technique was carried out in four stages: protein separation (electrophoresis), detection of antigenic proteins (western blotting), identification of proteins of interest (mass spectrometry), and interpretation of the data (bioinformatic analysis). Four proteins were identified from extracts of membrane proteins from erythrocytes infected with P. falciparum: Spectrin, Ankyrin-1, Band 3 and band 4.2, and a single protein was identified from erythrocytes infected with P. vivax: Band 3. These results demonstrate that modifications in the red blood cell membrane during infection with P. falciparum and P. vivax can generate an immune response, altering proteins of great structural and functional importance.

CRANIAL OSTEOMYELITIS AS A COMPLICATION OF FURUNCULAR MYIASIS.

OBJECTIVE: To report the case of an infant with infrequent cranial osteomyelitis as a complication of furuncular myiasis. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was a 4-month-old male who presented to the emergency department with a nodular skull lesion with edema, tenderness, pain, and purulent drainage, as well as progress of the ulcerated lesion and evidence of larvae inside. Antibiotic treatment was initiated, and the patient was taken to the operating room to remove the larvae, but he had no symptomatic improvement. A skull radiograph was taken to visualize the osteolytic lesion, and a 3D computed tomography scan showed osteomyelitis of the external parietal surface. Antibiotic management readjustment continued for a total of six weeks, and a skin flap was used with clinical improvement. COMMENTS: Myiasis is defined as the infestation of vertebrates with fly larvae. In mammals, larvae can feed on host tissue and cause a wide range of infestations depending on their location in the body. The cranial osteomyelitis as a complication of myiasis described in this report seems to be an exceptional case.

Cranial osteomyelitis as a complication of furuncular myiasis / Osteomielite craniana como complicação de miíase furuncular

ABSTRACT Objective: To report the case of an infant with infrequent cranial osteomyelitis as a complication of furuncular myiasis. Case description: The patient was a 4-month-old male who presented to the emergency department with a nodular skull lesion with edema, tenderness, pain, and purulent drainage, as well as progress of the ulcerated lesion and evidence of larvae inside. Antibiotic treatment was initiated, and the patient was taken to the operating room to remove the larvae, but he had no symptomatic improvement. A skull radiograph was taken to visualize the osteolytic lesion, and a 3D computed tomography scan showed osteomyelitis of the external parietal surface. Antibiotic management readjustment continued for a total of six weeks, and a skin flap was used with clinical improvement. Comments: Myiasis is defined as the infestation of vertebrates with fly larvae. In mammals, larvae can feed on host tissue and cause a wide range of infestations depending on their location in the body. The cranial osteomyelitis as a complication of myiasis described in this report seems to be an exceptional case.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar um caso de criança com osteomielite craniana infrequente como complicação da miíase furuncular. Descrição do caso: Paciente do sexo masculino, com quatro meses de idade, que se apresentou no pronto-socorro com lesão nodular no crânio com edema, sensibilidade, dor e drenagem purulenta, com evolução da lesão ulcerada e evidência de larva no interior. O tratamento com antibióticos foi iniciado e o paciente foi levado à sala de cirurgia para remover as larvas, mas não houve melhora. Uma radiografia do crânio foi realizada para visualizar a lesão osteolítica e uma tomografia computadorizada em 3D mostrou osteomielite da superfície parietal externa. O reajuste do tratamento com antibióticos foi mantido por um total de seis semanas e um retalho cutâneo foi realizado com melhora clínica. Comentários: Miíase é definida como a infestação de vertebrados com larvas de moscas. Nos mamíferos, as larvas podem se alimentar do tecido hospedeiro e causar uma ampla variedade de infestações, dependendo da sua localização no corpo. A osteomielite como complicação da miíase, apresentada nesse caso, parece ser uma forma não usual de complicação dessa doença.

Congenital Langerhans cell histiocytosis / Histiocitosis congénita de células de Langerhans

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare pathology with different clinical manifestations in the neonatal period ranging from isolated bone lesions to systemic compromise. We report a case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis including a literature review focused on the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. A one-month-old patient was brought to medical consultation with lymphadenopathy and skin lesions, which were initially managed as an infectious pathology. The disease continued its progression without improvement with the treatment until the patient died due to respiratory failure. The lymph node and skin biopsies revealed infiltration of atypical cells with positive immunohistochemistry for S100, CD1, and CD68 confirming Langerhans cell histiocytosis. This disorder represents a great challenge and, therefore, it is important to alert and sensitize medical teams about it for timely diagnosis and management.

La histiocitosis de células de Langerhans es una enfermedad poco frecuente, cuyas manifestaciones clínicas pueden aparecer en el periodo neonatal y varían desde lesiones óseas aisladas hasta un compromiso sistémico. Se describe un caso de histiocitosis de células de Langerhans y se revisa la literatura médica sobre las manifestaciones clínicas, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento. El paciente de un mes de nacido fue llevado a consulta por presentar adenopatías y lesiones en la piel que, inicialmente, fueron tratadas como reacción a una infección. La enfermedad continuó su progresión sin que hubiera mejoría con el tratamiento, hasta que el paciente falleció por falla respiratoria. La biopsia de ganglio linfático y la de piel revelaron infiltración de células atípicas, y la inmunohistoquímica resultó positiva para las proteínas S100, CD1 y CD68, con lo cual se confirmó el diagnóstico de histiocitosis de células de Langerhans. Esta alteración representa un gran desafío clínico, por lo que es importante alertar y sensibilizar al equipo médico para lograr un diagnóstico y un tratamiento más oportunos.

Histiocitosis congénita de células de Langerhans / Congenital Langerhans cell histiocytosis

La histiocitosis de células de Langerhans es una enfermedad poco frecuente, cuyas manifestaciones clínicas pueden aparecer en el periodo neonatal y varían desde lesiones óseas aisladas hasta un compromiso sistémico. Se describe un caso de histiocitosis de células de Langerhans y se revisa la literatura médica sobre las manifestaciones clínicas, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento. El paciente de un mes de nacido fue llevado a consulta por presentar adenopatías y lesiones en la piel que, inicialmente, fueron tratadas como reacción a una infección. La enfermedad continuó su progresión sin que hubiera mejoría con el tratamiento, hasta que el paciente falleció por falla respiratoria. La biopsia de ganglio linfático y la de piel revelaron infiltración de células atípicas, y la inmunohistoquímica resultó positiva para las proteínas S1OO, CD1 y CD68, con lo cual se confirmó el diagnóstico de histiocitosis de células de Langerhans. Esta alteración representa un gran desafío clínico, por lo que es importante alertar y sensibilizar al equipo médico para lograr un diagnóstico y un tratamiento más oportunos.

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare pathology with different clinical manifestations in the neonatal period ranging from isolated bone lesions to systemic compromise. We report a case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis including a literature review focused on the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. A one-month-old patient was brought to medical consultation with lymphadenopathy and skin lesions, which were initially managed as an infectious pathology. The disease continued its progression without improvement with the treatment until the patient died due to respiratory failure. The lymph node and skin biopsies revealed infiltration of atypical cells with positive immunohistochemistry for S1OO, CD1, and CD68 confirming Langerhans cell histiocytosis. This disorder represents a great challenge and, therefore, it is important to alert and sensitize medical teams about it for timely diagnosis and management.

[Promising and potential drugs for the treatment of COVID-19]. / Fármacos prometedores y potenciales para el tratamiento de COVID-19.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by respiratory alterations with varied symptoms ranging from mild manifestations to more severe conditions that can cause death. The objective of this narrative review of the literature is to synthesize in a concrete way the information available on potential drugs for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 and to serve as a support guide for health professionals. Taking into account previous experiences for the management of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV in the past, some of these drugs have been used as a starting point to seek the elimination of SARS-CoV-2. This review presents the current state of research on promising drugs as potential treatments for COVID-19 worldwide and is developed in the text on four types of anti-SARS-Cov-2 agents: regulators of the immune response, intracellular medium modifiers, viral RNA polymerase inhibitors and protease inhibitors. To date all the drugs described in this review need clinical studies to validate their use. However, until the results of these trials are available, the best available evidence should be used for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

Fármacos prometedores y potenciales para el tratamiento de COVID-19 / Promising and potential drugs for the treatment of COVID-19

Resumen La enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) se caracteriza por cuadros respiratorios de sintomatología variada, que puede cursar desde manifestaciones leves, hasta cuadros más graves que pueden causar la muerte. El objetivo de esta revisión narrativa de la literatura es sintetizar en forma concreta la información disponible sobre fármacos potenciales para el tratamiento de pacientes con COVID-19 y servir como una herramienta para los profesionales de la salud. Teniendo en cuenta experiencias previas para el manejo de SARS-CoV y MERS-CoV en el pasado, algunos de estos fármacos se han utilizado como punto de partida para buscar la eliminación del SARS-CoV-2. En la presente revisión se presenta el estado actual de la investigación sobre fármacos prometedores como potenciales tratamientos para COVID-19 a nivel mundial y se desarrollan en el texto en cuatro tipos de agentes anti-SARS-CoV-2: reguladores de la respuesta inmune, modificadores del medio intracelular, inhibidores de la ARN polimerasa viral y los inhibidores de proteasas. Hasta la fecha todos los fármacos descritos en esta revisión necesitan estudios clínicos que validen su utilización. Sin embargo, hasta que los resultados de estos ensayos no estén disponibles, debemos utilizar la mejor evidencia disponible para la prevención y el tratamiento de COVID-19.

Abstract Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by respiratory alterations with varied symptoms ranging from mild manifestations to more severe conditions that can cause death. The objective of this narrative review of the literature is to synthesize in a concrete way the information available on potential drugs for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 and to serve as a support guide for health professionals. Taking into account previous experiences for the management of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV in the past, some of these drugs have been used as a starting point to seek the elimination of SARS-CoV-2. This review presents the current state of research on promising drugs as potential treatments for COVID-19 worldwide and is developed in the text on four types of anti-SARS-Cov-2 agents: regulators of the immune response, intracellular medium modifiers, viral RNA polymerase inhibitors and protease inhibitors. To date all the drugs described in this review need clinical studies to validate their use. However, until the results of these trials are available, the best available evidence should be used for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

Microcefalia por Zika un problema latente: Reporte de Caso y Aspectos Moleculares / Zika microcephaly a latent problem: Case Report and Molecular Aspects

Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 20 días de nacido, procedente de Cartagena (Bolívar), hospitalizado por presentar fiebre de 6 días de evolución asociado a sintomatología respiratoria con evaluación neurológica normal. La ecografía obstétrica evidenció una microcefalia con un percentil de perímetro cefálico <2, con hipoplasia del cuerpo calloso y tomografía axial computarizada de cráneo que reportó diámetros cefálicos disminuidos, finas calcificaciones residuales en región frontal-parietal y cambios atróficos cerebrales subcorticales. Se le inició terapia antibiótica por presentar sepsis neonatal, las pruebas serológicas y la PCR para Zika resultaron positivas. Se decidió dar el alta médica al 6 día por mejoría clínica y no presentar déficit neurológico aparente. Aunque no existe un tratamiento específico, el pilar del manejo de un recién nacido con microcefalia es el seguimiento y la vigilancia futura de las posibles comorbilidades, como epilepsia, parálisis cerebral o retraso cognitivo y motor.

We present the case of a 20-day-old patient from Cartagena (Bolívar), hospitalized for presenting a 6-day fever associated with respiratory symptoms with normal neurological evaluation. The obstetric ultrasound showed a microcephaly with a percentile of cephalic perimeter <2, with hypoplasia of the corpus callosum and computed tomography of the skull that reported decreased cephalic diameters, fine residual calcifications in the frontal-parietal region and atrophic subcortical cerebral changes. Antibiotic therapy was initiated due to neonatal sepsis, the serological tests and the PCR for Zika were positive. It was decided to discharge the hospital after 6 days due to clinical improvement and for not presenting apparent neurological deficit. Although there is no specific treatment, the pillar of the management of a newborn with microcephaly is the monitoring and future surveillance of possible comorbidities, such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy or cognitive and motor retardation.

Malaria congénita por Plasmodium vivax: reporte de caso / Congenital malaria by Plasmodium vivax: case report

Resumen Se describe el caso de malaria congénita por Plasmodium vivax de un neonato de 25 días de nacido, el cual consulta por fiebre e ictericia persistente. La sospecha inicial orientaba a un diagnóstico de sepsis neonatal. El neonato residente en Cartagena (Colombia), presentaba antecedente perinatal de ictericia y antecedente materno de malaria gestacional diagnosticada al cuarto mes. La madre refirió haber vivido los primeros siete meses de su embarazo en Tierralta, Córdoba (Colombia), la cual es una zona endémica de malaria. Posterior a los resultados del extendido de sangre periférica del neonato se demostró la presencia de Plasmodium vivax. El tratamiento antimalárico fue realizado con cloroquina, con eficaz mejoría clínica. Se destaca la importancia de tener a la malaria congénita como diagnóstico diferencial en infecciones neonatales, sepsis, fiebre inexplicable o en lactantes que presenten anemia hemolítica, ictericia y hepatoesplenomegalia en pacientes provenientes de zonas endémicas de malaria.

Abstract We describe the case of congenital malaria by Plasmodium vivax of a neonate of 25 days of age, who consults for fever and persistent jaundice. The initial suspicion aimed to a diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. The neonate living in Cartagena (Colombia) had a perinatal history of jaundice and a maternal history of gestational malaria diagnosed at the fourth month. The mother reported having lived the first seven months of her pregnancy in Tierralta, Córdoba (Colombia), which is an endemic area of malaria. Subsequent to the results of the peripheral blood smear of the neonate, the presence of Plasmodium vivax was demonstrated. The antimalarial treatment was performed with chloroquine, with effective clinical improvement. The importance of having congenital malaria as a differential diagnosis in neonatal infections, sepsis and unexplained fever or in infants with hemolytic anemia, jaundice and hepatosplenomegaly in patients from malaria endemic areas is highlighted.

[Cleidocranial dysplasia: a case report]. / Displasia cleidocraneal: reporte de un caso.

INTRODUCTION: Cleidocraneal dysplasia (CCD) is a rare skeletal autosomal dominant syndrome characterized by dental anomalies and bone abnormalities. These clinical manifestations do not require treatment in most cases. The disease is caused by mutation in the gene RUNX2 (CBAF1), located on the short arm of chromosome 6. OBJECTIVE: To report a case of CCD and perform a literature review focused on clinical manifestations and diagnosis. CASE REPORT: A 3 year old patient, who was clinically diagnosed with CCD since birth. The patient showed incomplete development of cranial bones, bell-shaped thorax, adequate dentition and presence of clavicles. Molecular analysis reported that the patient is carrying the pathogenic variant c.674G>A in the RUNX2 gene, confirming the diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: The CCD is a rare condition, with special clinical features. It is important to establish early diagnosis in these patients in order to offer a better quality of life, and if necessary, appropriate treatment.

Displasia cleidocraneal: reporte de un caso / Cleidocranial dysplasia: a case report

Introducción: La displasia cleidocraneal (DCC) es un raro síndrome esquelético de herencia autosómica dominante que se caracteriza por anomalías dentales y anormalidades óseas. Estas manifestaciones clínicas no requieren tratamiento en la mayoría de los casos. La enfermedad es causada por mutación en el gen RUNX2 (CBAF1), ubicado en el brazo corto del cromosoma 6. Objetivo: Reportar un caso de DCC y realizar una revisión bibliográfica enfocada en hallazgos clínicos y diagnóstico. Caso clínico: Paciente de 3 años de edad, con diagnóstico clínico de DCC en el momento del nacimiento. Con evidencia de desarrollo incompleto de huesos craneales, tórax en campana, adecuada dentición y presencia de clavículas. El análisis molecular reportó que el paciente es portador de la variante patogénica c.674G>A en el gen RUNX2, confirmando el diagnóstico. Conclusiones: La DCC es una patología poco frecuente, con unas características clínicas específicas. Es de suma importancia establecer el diagnóstico oportuno en estos pacientes con el fin de ofrecerles una mejor calidad de vida, y si es el caso, un adecuado tratamiento.

Introduction: Cleidocraneal dysplasia (CCD) is a rare skeletal autosomal dominant syndrome characterized by dental anomalies and bone abnormalities. These clinical manifestations do not require treatment in most cases. The disease is caused by mutation in the gene RUNX2 (CBAF1), located on the short arm of chromosome 6. Objective: To report a case of CCD and perform a literature review focused on clinical manifestations and diagnosis. Case report: A 3 year old patient, who was clinically diagnosed with CCD since birth. The patient showed incomplete development of cranial bones, bell-shaped thorax, adequate dentition and presence of clavicles. Molecular analysis reported that the patient is carrying the pathogenic variant c.674G>A in the RUNX2 gene, confirming the diagnosis. Conclusions: The CCD is a rare condition, with special clinical features. It is important to establish early diagnosis in these patients in order to offer a better quality of life, and if necessary, appropriate treatment.

Avances científicos en las estrategias terapéuticas contra la enfermedad por virus del ébola / Scientific advances in therapeutic strategies against disease by ebola virus

La enfermedad por el virus del Ébola se conoce desde hace treinta años como mortal, contagiosa y de difícil diagnóstico y tratamiento. Numerosos estudios se han realizado para comprender la patogénesis del virus y con ello los posibles tratamientos que puedan generar control de la enfermedad. Sin embargo, no hay hasta la fecha un fármaco o vacuna con licencia para combatir el virus del Ébola. El tratamiento está basado solo en aliviar los síntomas y prevenir el contagio por medio de acciones que ayuden a minimizar el riesgo de infección. En esta revisión, se presentan las diferentes perspectivas del estado actual de la investigación sobre fármacos antivirales y vacunas en fases de desarrollo para la infección del virus del Ébola.

Ebola virus disease has been known for thirty years as a lethal, contagious and difficult to diagnose and treat disease. Numerous studies have been conducted to understand the pathogenesis of the virus and thus the possible treatments that may promote disease control. However, to date there is no licensed vaccine or medicine to fight Ebola virus. The treatment is based only on relieving symptoms and preventing contagion through actions that help minimize the risk of infection. This review presents different perspectives of the current state of research on antiviral medicine and vaccines in development stages for Ebola virus infection.

[Cerebrovascular hemorrhage associated with acquired cytomegalovirus infection in an infant]. / Hemorragia cerebrovascular asociada con infección por citomegalovirus en un lactante menor.

Cytomegalovirus is the most frequent causative agent of perinatal infection and a major cause of acquired viral infections. This case report aims to show the broad clinical spectrum of the presentation of cytomegalovirus infection. The correct classification of congenital or acquired infection and its prompt treatment can prevent complications and sequelae in severe cases. We report the case of an infant with acquired cytomegalovirus infection, which presented an unusual feature of cerebral hemorrhage. The patient was treated with ganciclovir, with a favorable evolution of the clinical symptoms. Cytomegalovirus infection is common in children, both in its congenital and acquired forms. Acquired infection, as portrayed in this case, is mainly characterized by hematological compromise given by the marked thrombocytopenia, which may rarely result in cases of bleeding in the central nervous system. In this patient, no important clinical implications occurred. In addition, most of the acquired infections are self-limited and require no treatment.

Hemorragia cerebrovascular asociada con infección por citomegalovirus en un lactante menor / Cerebrovascular hemorrhage associated with acquired cytomegalovirus infection in an infant

El citomegalovirus es el agente de infección perinatal más frecuente y una de las principales causas de infecciones virales adquiridas. En la presentación del siguiente caso se describe el amplio espectro clínico de la infección por citomegalovirus. La clasificación correcta de la infección como congénita o adquirida y el tratamiento oportuno pueden evitar complicaciones y secuelas en los casos graves. Se describe el caso de un lactante menor que presentaba una infección por citomegalovirus con la manifestación poco frecuente de hemorragia cerebral. Después del tratamiento con ganciclovir, los síntomas clínicos evolucionaron favorablemente. La infección por citomegalovirus es muy frecuente en la edad pediátrica, tanto en la forma congénita como en la adquirida. La forma adquirida, como la de este caso, se caracteriza principalmente por el compromiso hematológico, al producirse una importante trombocitopenia, lo que puede originar, aunque infrecuentemente, sangrado del sistema nervioso central; la mayoría de las infecciones adquiridas, sin embargo, son de resolución espontánea y no requieren tratamiento. En este paciente no se presentaron repercusiones clínicas de importancia.

Cytomegalovirus is the most frequent causative agent of perinatal infection and a major cause of acquired viral infections. This case report aims to show the broad clinical spectrum of the presentation of cytomegalovirus infection. The correct classification of congenital or acquired infection and its prompt treatment can prevent complications and sequelae in severe cases. We report the case of an infant with acquired cytomegalovirus infection, which presented an unusual feature of cerebral hemorrhage. The patient was treated with ganciclovir, with a favorable evolution of the clinical symptoms. Cytomegalovirus infection is common in children, both in its congenital and acquired forms. Acquired infection, as portrayed in this case, is mainly characterized by hematological compromise given by the marked thrombocytopenia, which may rarely result in cases of bleeding in the central nervous system. In this patient, no important clinical implications occurred. In addition, most of the acquired infections are self-limited and require no treatment.

Inhibición dual de la neprilisina y el receptor de angiotensina II: nueva estrategia prometedora en el tratamiento de la enfermedad cardiovascular / Dual inhibition of neprilysin and angiotensin II receptor: promising new strategy in the treatment of cardiovascular disease

La inhibición de neprilisina y el bloqueo de los receptores de angiotensina II, ofrecen beneficios potenciales para el tratamiento de las enfermedades cardiovasculares. El compuesto LCZ696 es el primer fármaco en fase de estudio como inhibidor de la neprilisina y de los receptores de angiotensina. El aumento de la concentración de los péptidos natriuréticos a través de la inhibición de la neprilisina, representa un enfoque terapéutico que tiene el potencial de conferir protección cardiaca, renal y vascular. Sin embargo, diversos estudios demuestran que los beneficios clínicos de la inhibición de la neprilisina pueden ser mejor aprovechados si se inhibe simultáneamente el sistema renina-angiotensina. Esta revisión realizada en PubMed, tiene como objetivo presentar los avances prometedores en el mecanismo dual de inhibición de la neprilisina y el receptor de angiotensina II para el tratamiento de la hipertensión y la insuficiencia cardiaca.

Neprilysin inhibition and angiotensin II receptor blockade offer potential benefits for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The compound LCZ696 is the first drug under study phase as an inhibitor of neprilysin and angiotensin receptors . The increase of the concentration of the natriuretic peptides through the inhibition of neprilysin represents a therapeutic approach which has the potential of conferring cardiac, renal and vascular protection. However, several studies show that the clinical benefits of neprilysin inhibition can be better utilized if the renin-angiotensin system is simultaneously inhibited. This review realized in PubMed aims to present the promising advances in the dual mechanism of inhibition of neprilysin and angiotensin II receptor for the treatment of hypertension and heart failure.

Antiplasmodial activity and mechanism of action of RSM-932A, a promising synergistic inhibitor of Plasmodium falciparum choline kinase.

We have investigated the mechanism of action of inhibition of the choline kinase of P. falciparum (p.f.-ChoK) by two inhibitors of the human ChoKα, MN58b and RSM-932A, which have previously been shown to be potent antitumoral agents. The efficacy of these inhibitors against p.f.-ChoK is investigated using enzymatic and in vitro assays. While MN58b may enter the choline/phosphocholine binding site, RSM-932A appears to have an altogether novel mechanism of inhibition and is synergistic with respect to both choline and ATP. A model of inhibition for RSM-932A in which this inhibitor traps p.f.-ChoK in a phosphorylated intermediate state blocking phosphate transfer to choline is presented. Importantly, MN58b and RSM-932A have in vitro inhibitory activity in the low nanomolar range and are equally effective against chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains. RSM-932A and MN58b significantly reduced parasitemia and induced the accumulation of trophozoites and schizonts, blocking intraerythrocytic development and interfering with parasite egress or invasion, suggesting a delay of the parasite maturation stage. The present data provide two new potent structures for the development of antimalarial compounds and validate p.f.-ChoK as an accessible drug target against the parasite.

Canakinumab: un anticuerpo monoclonal prometedor en el tratamiento de enfermedades cardiovasculares / Canakinumab: a promising monoclonal antibody in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

El canakinumab es un anticuerpo monoclonal anti-IL-1β totalmente humano desarrollado por Novartis, cuyo mecanismo de acción se basa en la neutralización de la señalización IL-1β, lo cual conduce a la supresión de la inflamación en pacientes con trastornos de origen autoinmune. La IL-1β actúa como un mediador de la respuesta inmune periférica durante la infección y la inflamación. Mediante la unión antígeno-anticuerpo el canakinumab inhibe la acción de la IL1-β evitando sus efectos pro-inflamatorios. En la actualidad, está en evaluación como un nuevo posible agente dirigido frente a la IL-1β, con el objetivo de reducir la tasa de eventos cardiovasculares y la diabetes de aparición reciente (estudio CANTOS).

Canakinumab is a totally human monoclonal antibody anti-IL-1β developed by Novartis, whose mode of action is based on the neutralization of IL-1β signaling, which leads to suppression of inflammation in patients with autoimmune disorders. The IL-1β acts as a mediator of the peripheral immune response during infection and inflammation. By the antigen-antibody binding, canakinumab inhibits the action of IL1-β avoiding its pro-inflammatory effects. Currently, it is being evaluated as a new possible agent directed against IL-1β, with the goal of reducing the rate of cardiovascular events and new onset diabetes (study CANTOS).

Pilot study of hemoglobinopathies in newborns of the Rafael Calvo maternity clinic of Cartagena, Colombia / Estudio piloto de hemoglobinopatías en recién nacidos de la Clínica Maternidad Rafael Calvo de Cartagena, Colombia

Introduction: The hemoglobinopathies are a heterogeneous group of congenital anemias from Africa, Asia and the Mediterranean. Due to the migration of this population have spread worldwide, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean region, which Cartagena de Indias is included, with a large proportion of people of African descent. The lack of routine programs that include an appropriate methodology for precise identification of those affected and carriers, impossible to know the real behavior of this disease in our country and an early and appropriate to the patients before the disease manifests itself and produce its serious consequences. Objective: To estimate the incidence and describe the epidemiological profile of hemoglobinopathies in newborns Rafael Calvo Maternity Clinic of Cartagena, in the period from January to June 2010. Methods: Prospective descriptive study of a population of 1729 newborns. Samples were collected cord blood on filter paper. Isoelectric focusing electrophoresis (IEF )was used to separate the haemoglobins. Results: 94.4% (1633samples) were normal (hemoglobinFA), 4.5% (78samples) were heterozygous for haemoglobin S (HbFAS), 1% (17samples) were heterozygous for haemoglobin C (hemoglobinFAC) and 0.1% (1 sample) was double heterozygous SC (hemoglobinFSC). Conclusion: Due to the high incidence of hemoglobinopathies found in this pilot study highlights the importance and necessity of establishing an obligatory neonatal screening in the city of Cartagena, in order to make a timely diagnosis and monitoring of affected and carrier.

Introducción:Las hemoglobinopatías comprenden un grupo heterogéneo de anemias congénitas originarias de África, Asia y la cuenca mediterránea. Debido a las migraciones de este grupo poblacional se han esparcido en todo el mundo, especialmente en América Latina y la región Caribe, en la cual está incluida Cartagena de Indias, con una gran proporción de población afrodescendiente.La inexistencia de programas rutinarios para la identificación precisa de los afectados y portadores, imposibilita conocer el comportamiento real de esta enfermedad en nuestro medio, el manejo temprano y adecuado a los pacientes, antes que la enfermedad se manifieste y produzca sus graves secuelas. Objetivo: Estimar la incidencia y describir el perfil epidemiológico de las hemoglobinopatías, en recién nacidos de la Clínica Maternidad Rafael Calvo de Cartagena, en el período de enero a junio del año 2010. Método: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo. Se tomó muestra de cordón umbilical recolectada en papel de filtro, a una población de 1729 recién nacidos, empleando la técnica de electroforesis de punto isoeléctrico. Resultados: El 94.4 % (1633 muestras) fueron normales (hemoglobina FA), el 4.5% (78 muestras) fueron heterocigotos para hemoglobina S (hemoglobina FAS), el 1% (17 muestras) fueron heterocigotos para hemoglobina C (hemoglobina FAC) y el 0.1% (1 muestra) fue doble heterocigoto SC (hemoglobina FSC). Conclusión: debido a la alta incidencia de hemoglobinopatías encontrada en este estudio piloto, se resalta la importancia de establecer un programa de tamizaje neonatal en la población de Cartagena, a fin de realizar un oportuno diagnóstico y seguimiento de los afectados y portadores.

Pilot study of hemoglobinopathies in newborns of the Rafael Calvo maternity clinic of Cartagena, Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: The hemoglobinopathies are a heterogeneous group of congenital anemias from Africa, Asia and the Mediterranean. Due to the migration of this population have spread worldwide, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean region, which Cartagena de Indias is included, with a large proportion of people of African descent. The lack of routine programs that include an appropriate methodology for precise identification of those affected and carriers, impossible to know the real behavior of this disease in our country and an early and appropriate to the patients before the disease manifests itself and produce its serious consequences. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the incidence and describe the epidemiological profile of hemoglobinopathies in newborns Rafael Calvo Maternity Clinic of Cartagena, in the period from January to June 2010. METHODS: Prospective descriptive study of a population of 1,729 newborns. Samples were collected cord blood on filter paper. Isoelectric focusing electrophoresis (IEF )was used to separate the haemoglobins. RESULTS: 94.4% (1,633 samples) were normal (hemoglobin FA), 4.5% (78 samples) were heterozygous for haemoglobin S (HbFAS), 1% (17samples) were heterozygous for haemoglobin C (hemoglobin FAC) and 0.1% (1 sample) was double heterozygous SC (hemoglobin FSC). CONCLUSION: Due to the high incidence of hemoglobinopathies found in this pilot study highlights the importance and necessity of establishing an obligatory neonatal screening in the city of Cartagena, in order to make a timely diagnosis and monitoring of affected and carrier.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las hemoglobinopatías comprenden un grupo heterogéneo de anemias congénitas originarias de África, Asia y la cuenca mediterránea. Debido a las migraciones de este grupo poblacional se han esparcido en todo el mundo, especialmente en América Latina y la región Caribe, en la cual está incluida Cartagena de Indias, con una gran proporción de población afrodescendiente. La inexistencia de programas rutinarios para la identificación precisa de los afectados y portadores, imposibilita conocer el comportamiento real de esta enfermedad en nuestro medio, el manejo temprano y adecuado a los pacientes, antes que la enfermedad se manifieste y produzca sus graves secuelas. OBJETIVO: Estimar la incidencia y describir el perfil epidemiológico de las hemoglobinopatías, en recién nacidos de la Clínica Maternidad Rafael Calvo de Cartagena, en el período de enero a junio del año 2010. MÉTODO: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo. Se tomó muestra de cordón umbilical recolectada en papel de filtro, a una población de 1,729 recién nacidos, empleando la técnica de electroforesis de punto isoeléctrico. RESULTADOS: El 94.4 % (1,633 muestras) fueron normales (hemoglobina FA), el 4.5% (78 muestras) fueron heterocigotos para hemoglobina S (hemoglobina FAS), el 1% (17 muestras) fueron heterocigotos para hemoglobina C (hemoglobina FAC) y el 0.1% (1 muestra) fue doble heterocigoto SC (hemoglobina FSC). CONCLUSIÓN: debido a la alta incidencia de hemoglobinopatías encontrada en este estudio piloto, se resalta la importancia de establecer un programa de tamizaje neonatal en la población de Cartagena, a fin de realizar un oportuno diagnóstico y seguimiento de los afectados y portadores.