Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Alexandra McCarron, Nigel Farrow, Patricia Cmielewski, Emma Knight, Martin Donnelley, David Parsons
Summary: The lungs have evolved complex defenses to prevent foreign materials from entering epithelial cells, which can also affect gene transfer agents. Disrupting the integrity of the epithelium prior to gene delivery can enhance gene expression levels.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Victoria Drysdale, Patricia Cmielewski, Martin Donnelley, Nicole Reyne, David Parsons, Alexandra McCarron
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of physical perturbation devices on airway gene transfer and quantify these effects. The results showed that physical perturbation can improve gene transfer, with the NGage(R) wire basket being an effective device.
HUMAN GENE THERAPY
(2022)
Article
Virology
Siyuan Hao, Xiujuan Zhang, Kang Ning, Zehua Feng, Soo Yeun Park, Cagla Aksu Kuz, Shane McFarlin, Donovan Richart, Fang Cheng, Elizabeth Yan Zhang, Aaron Zhang-Chen, Ziying Yan, Jianming Qiu
Summary: rAAV2.5T, selected through directed evolution, is capable of efficiently transducing human airway epithelium. Our study revealed that KIAA0319L is not essential for vector internalization but plays a critical role in efficient vector transduction to human airway epithelium. We also identified a novel gene, WDR63, which is important for vector transduction of human airway epithelium but not for vector internalization and nuclear entry. Additionally, our study discovered the significant transduction potential of rAAV2.5T in the basal stem cells of human airway epithelium, highlighting its utility in gene editing for pulmonary genetic diseases.
JOURNAL OF VIROLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mirle Pena Ortega, Luz M. Lopez-Marin, Blanca Millan-Chiu, Patricia Manzano-Gayosso, Laura Susana Acosta-Torres, Rene Garcia-Contreras, Ravichandran Manisekaran
Summary: This study successfully synthesized stable cationic silver nanoparticles using a facile aqueous phase process, which exhibited antimicrobial activity against Candida species, especially in inhibiting biofilm formation.
COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Agata Antepowicz, Omar Habib, Freja Kirsebom, Cecilia Johansson, Deborah R. Gill, Stephen C. Hyde
Summary: In this study, gene delivery approaches using recombinant adeno-associated virus and simian immunodeficiency virus vectors were utilized to achieve sustained in vivo production of Palivizumab in a murine model. Pre-treatment with Palivizumab-expressing vectors provided complete protection against RSV-induced weight loss. This approach offers prophylaxis against RSV infection, potentially reducing treatment costs in vulnerable populations.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Fengwen Xu, Xiaoman Liu, Di Zhang, Fei Zhao, Zhangling Fan, Siqi Hu, Shan Mei, Yu Huang, Hong Sun, Liang Wei, Li Guo, Jianwei Wang, Shan Cen, Chen Liang, Fei Guo
Summary: MARCH8 regulates VSV G protein levels and its knockout in virus-producing cells can increase lentiviral vector transduction efficiency. Engineering a VSV G mutant that resists degradation by MARCH8 enhances transduction efficiency of lentiviral vector particles. This engineered VSV G mutant further advances the lentiviral vector system as a powerful tool in gene therapy.
HUMAN GENE THERAPY
(2021)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Mohammad Afzal Khan, Talal Shamma, Abdullah Altuhami, Hala Abdalrahman Ahmed, Abdullah Mohammed Assiri, Dieter Clemens Broering
Summary: This study demonstrates the important role of CTLA4-Ig mediated immunosuppression in preserving graft microvasculature and rescuing graft from sustained hypoxia and ischemia. It modulates both immune response and a late surge of regulatory activity, thus promoting graft repair and preventing progression of subepithelial fibrosis.
PHARMACOLOGICAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Nicole Reyne, Patricia Cmielewski, Alexandra McCarron, Juliette Delhove, David Parsons, Martin Donnelley
Summary: The study evaluated the effect of lentiviral-mediated CFTR airway gene delivery on nasal PD in a CFTR knockout rat model, showing that the gene therapy resulted in a mean correction of 46% towards wild-type chloride response in treated CF rats.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Nathalie Fuentes, Morgan McCullough, Reynold A. Panettieri, Kirk M. Druey
Summary: Asthma is a prevalent disorder characterized by chronic lung inflammation and reversible airways obstruction, with features including increased airway narrowing, excessive mucus secretion, airway remodeling, and airways hyperresponsiveness. Environmental factors such as allergens, viruses, and air pollution can promote asthma, leading to symptoms like cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. G-protein-coupled receptors play a central role in asthma, with various treatments targeting these receptors to regulate airway smooth muscle tone and lung inflammation.
PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Desiree Schuetz, Sascha Rode, Clarissa Read, Janis A. Mueller, Bernhard Glocker, Konstantin M. J. Sparrer, Oliver T. Fackler, Paul Walther, Jan Muench
Summary: Self-assembling peptide nanofibrils (PNF) are versatile molecules in material science and biomedicine, with an important application being the enhancement of retroviral gene transfer. The mechanism of transduction enhancement with EF-C PNF involves binding to the negatively charged membranes of viruses and cells to increase virion attachment and fusion, potentially through an active engagement with cellular protrusions like filopodia.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Devendra Kumar, Subrata Dolui, Bhanendra Sahu, Sanjib Banerjee
Summary: This article presents the synthesis of unprecedented amphiphilic block copolymers with dual stimuli-responsiveness. The cloud point of the block copolymers can be tuned by changing the monomer composition. These synthesized copolymers have potential applications in various fields, including stimuli-responsive materials and contaminant removal.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Neurosciences
Violina Kakoty, K. C. Sarathlal, Sunil Kumar Dubey, Chih Hao Yang, Prashant Kesharwani, Rajeev Taliyan
Summary: Developing a complete therapeutic cure for neurodegenerative conditions remains a challenge due to the blood brain barrier. Parkinson Disease is a neuromotor degenerative disorder affecting motor coordination, and recent research has highlighted the potential use of lentiviral vectors for targeted delivery of neuroprotective substances.
NEUROSCIENCE LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Tingting Hu, Ying Yan, Zhenwei Tang, Xinfa Liu, Changbei Ma
Summary: The paper proposes a fast and simple strategy for sensitive detection of streptavidin based on terminal protection of small molecule-linked DNA and cationic conjugated polymer-mediated fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). This method has advantages of easy operation, short response time, low detection limit, and satisfactory results in biological sample applications, showing promising prospects for future use.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
P. Cmielewski, J. Delhove, M. Donnelley, D. Parsons
Summary: The study established a rapid nasal PD technique for assessing the efficacy of CF therapies, showing that LV-CFTR gene therapy can improve chloride transport. This technique enables improved functional assessment of the bioelectrical ion transport defect for both current and potential CF therapies.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Hui Liu, Xiaoyun Zhao, Yu Bai, Huichao Xie, Zhen Yang, Yichen Wang, Yongfeng Chen, Yucen Luo, Mengrui Ma, Wenwen Lu, Jizhuang Ma, Tianzhi Yang, Bo Jin, Pingtian Ding
Summary: In this study, a class of amphiphilic polymer vectors with different hydrophobicities and biodegradability were synthesized to improve gene delivery efficiency and reduce cytotoxicity through hydrophobic modification. These vectors could form flexible and uniform nanoparticles, enhance endocytosis efficiency, and demonstrate higher transfection efficiency. Moreover, the hydrophobic structural domain of the vectors improved serum stability and exhibited the ability to inhibit tumor growth in breast cancer models.
MATERIALS & DESIGN
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Onofrio Laselva, Caterina Allegretta, Sante Di Gioia, Carlo Avolio, Massimo Conese
Summary: DMF demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in CF treatment, reducing inflammatory responses, restoring CFTR function, and potentially serving as a novel drug to ameliorate lung inflammation in CF patients and enhance drug efficacy.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Adriana Trapani, Maria Angeles Esteban, Francesca Curci, Daniela Erminia Manno, Antonio Serra, Giuseppe Fracchiolla, Cristobal Espinosa-Ruiz, Stefano Castellani, Massimo Conese
Summary: This study investigates the use of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) to deliver a mixture of antioxidant compounds to fish cells in aquaculture. The findings show that an SLN formulation containing Gelucire(R) 50/13 and Precirol(R) ATO5 can improve the viability and antioxidant properties of fish cells. This research may have significant implications in the field of aquaculture.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Onofrio Laselva, Lorenzo Guerra, Stefano Castellani, Maria Favia, Sante Di Gioia, Massimo Conese
Summary: This paper provides an overview of old and novel CFTR modulators as well as strategies based on small-molecule drugs for the treatment of cystic fibrosis. It highlights the advancements in pharmacotherapy and the need for further research to improve clinical outcomes in CF management.
PULMONARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Adriana Trapani, Stefania Cometa, Elvira De Giglio, Filomena Corbo, Roberta Cassano, Maria Luisa Di Gioia, Sonia Trombino, Md Niamat Hossain, Sante Di Gioia, Giuseppe Trapani, Massimo Conese
Summary: A widely investigated approach to bypass the blood brain barrier is represented by the intranasal delivery of therapeutic agents exploiting the olfactory or trigeminal connections nose-brain. As for Parkinson's disease (PD), characterized by dopaminergic midbrain neurons degeneration, currently there is no disease modifying therapy. Although several bio-nanomaterials have been evaluated for encapsulation of neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) or dopaminergic drugs in order to restore the DA content in parkinsonian patients, the premature leakage of the therapeutic agent limits this approach. To tackle this drawback, we undertook a study where the active was linked to the polymeric backbone by a covalent bond. Thus, novel nanoparticles (NPs) based on N,O-Carboxymethylchitosan-DA amide conjugate (N,O-CMCS-DA) were prepared by the nanoprecipitation method and characterized from a technological view point, cytotoxicity and uptake by Olfactory Ensheating Cells (OECs). Thermogravimetric analysis showed high chemical stability of N,O-CMCS-DA NPs and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy evidenced the presence of amide linkages on the NPs surface. MTT test indicated their cytocompatibility with OECs, while cytofluorimetry and fluorescent microscopy revealed the internalization of labelled N,O-CMCS-DA NPs by OECs, that was increased by the presence of mucin. Altogether, these findings seem promising for further development of N,O-CMCS-DA NPs for nose-to-brain delivery application in PD.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Caterina Allegretta, Emanuele D'Amico, Virginia Manuti, Carlo Avolio, Massimo Conese
Summary: Autoimmune demyelinating diseases are a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by neuroinflammation and loss of myelin. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to treat these diseases due to the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective molecules in their secretome.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Onofrio Laselva, Massimo Conese
Summary: The novel triple combination therapy ETI shows promise in ameliorating wound healing of airway epithelium in patients with the F508del mutation.
JOURNAL OF PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vincenzo De Leo, Anna Maria Maurelli, Livia Giotta, Valeria Daniello, Sante Di Gioia, Massimo Conese, Chiara Ingrosso, Fulvio Ciriaco, Lucia Catucci
Summary: In this study, the co-encapsulation of curcumin (Cur) and hydroxytyrosol (HT) into liposomes was achieved, and the liposomal formulation was improved for increased stability in the gastrointestinal tract. The liposomes demonstrated good stability, antioxidant activity, and low cytotoxicity against Caco-2 cells.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sante Di Gioia, Valeria Daniello, Massimo Conese
Summary: This article provides an update on the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It discusses how different subsets of EVs contribute to the pathophysiology of CF and COPD and how they can serve as potential biomarkers for these diseases.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Massimo Conese, Ottavio Napolitano, Onofrio Laselva, Sante Di Gioia, Luigi Nappi, Luigia Trabace, Maria Matteo
Summary: This study found that the levels of PLAC1 in AMSCs were lower in patients with preeclampsia, and abnormal shedding of PLAC1 from AMSC plasma membranes may contribute to trophoblast proliferation and support its role in the development of preeclampsia.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Santina Venuto, Anna Rita Daniela Coda, Ruperto Gonzalez-Perez, Onofrio Laselva, Doron Tolomeo, Clelia Tiziana Storlazzi, Arcangelo Liso, Massimo Conese
Summary: The lung is an important organ for gas exchange and immune response. The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system and its binding proteins (IGFBPs) play a role in the development of the lung as well as the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases and lung tumors. Among the IGFBPs, IGFBP-6 has emerged as a mediator of airway inflammation and tumor suppression in lung tumors. This review focuses on the multiple roles of IGFBP-6 in respiratory diseases, including its function in inflammation, fibrosis, and different types of lung cancer.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Genetics & Heredity
Annalucia Carbone, Pamela Vitullo, Sante Di Gioia, Massimo Conese
Summary: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease caused by mutations in the CFTR gene. The severity of the disease in patients is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Lung inflammation plays a crucial role in cystic fibrosis lung disease, and CFTR modulator therapies can improve the inflammatory process, but individual responses may vary.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Sante Di Gioia, Lucio Milillo, Md Niamat Hossain, Annalucia Carbone, Massimo Petruzzi, Massimo Conese
Summary: The influence of a magnetic field on the activation of bone cells and remodelling of alveolar bone has been studied, but its effect on blood clot dissolution has not yet been investigated. This study found that a static magnetic field can increase the stability of blood clots when tissue factor and t-PA + plasminogen are used. However, the magnetic field did not have a significant effect on cell proliferation. Further research is needed to fully utilize magnetic forces in guided bone regeneration for orthodontics and prosthodontics.
BIOENGINEERING-BASEL
(2023)
Review
Immunology
Roberto Zefferino, Massimo Conese
Summary: This article discusses the possibility of a vaccine against cancer and proposes a new approach of developing a vaccine that targets metastasis. The author emphasizes that the field has not been thoroughly studied and highlights the complexity of metastatic processes. By considering the interactions of different mechanisms and cells at the primary site and pre-metastatic niche, potential targets for a metastasis-targeting vaccine are proposed. The conclusion is that a change in the current concept of a cancer vaccine is needed, and efforts should be redirected towards developing a vaccine that specifically targets metastasis, in the hope of eradicating cancer.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Roberto Zefferino, Francesca Fortunato, Addolorata Arsa, Sante Di Gioia, Gianfranco Tomei, Massimo Conese
Summary: Due to work-related stress, work has become a daily challenge for many occupations. The scientific community is now studying the disorder in various professions to evaluate and assess it. This paper proposes a comprehensive assessment approach by studying three biological salivary markers. The research on fishermen in the Apulia region of Italy reveals that sleep disturbances and work conflicts significantly affect the levels and rhythms of salivary markers. The results provide potential opportunities for using this approach in health surveillance to prevent mental and/or physical disorders and suggest further research directions.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Review
Pathology
Massimo Conese, Sante Di Gioia
Summary: Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive genetic disease that mainly affects the lungs, leading to airway injury and remodeling due to mutations in the CFTR gene. Dysregulated regeneration and wound repair in CF airways, as well as altered epithelial-mesenchymal transition contributing to wound closure alteration, have been identified in in vitro and in vivo studies. Therapeutic approaches such as protease inhibitors, CFTR modulators, and mesenchymal stem cells show promise in addressing this defect, but further research is needed for a better understanding of cellular and molecular events in wound repair in CF.