Article
Cell Biology
Marco Gelpi, Flora Mikaeloff, Andreas D. Knudsen, Rui Benfeitas, Shuba Krishnan, Sara Svenssson Akusjarvi, Julie Hogh, Daniel D. Murray, Henrik Ullum, Ujjwal Neogi, Susanne D. Nielsen
Summary: This study investigated metabolic alterations in well-treated PLWH with MetS and identified potential mechanisms and biomarkers associated with MetS through advanced statistical and machine learning algorithms, indicating clinical significance in altered glutamate metabolism.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Rebecka Papaioannu Borjesson, Laura Galli, Camilla Muccini, Andrea Poli, Tommaso Clemente, Martina Bottanelli, Nicola Gianotti, Silvia Nozza, Antonella Castagna, Vincenzo Spagnuolo
Summary: This study analyzed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence and incidence of metabolic syndrome in people living with HIV. The results showed an increase in both the prevalence and incidence of metabolic syndrome during the pandemic period.
FRONTIERS IN MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Virology
Mariusz Sapula, Magdalena Suchacz, Andrzej Zaleski, Alicja Wiercinska-Drapalo
Summary: The development of metabolic derangements as a result of HIV treatment has been extensively studied. This review discusses the impact of antiretroviral therapy on weight, plasma lipid levels, plasma glucose levels, and blood pressure, as well as the limitations and knowledge gaps in current research.
Article
Microbiology
Tonatiuh Abimael Baltazar-Diaz, Fernando Amador-Lara, Jaime F. Andrade-Villanueva, Luz Alicia Gonzalez-Hernandez, Rodolfo Ismael Cabrera-Silva, Karina Sanchez-Reyes, Monserrat Alvarez-Zavala, Aldo Valenzuela-Ramirez, Susana Del Toro-Arreola, Miriam Ruth Bueno-Topete
Summary: Antiretroviral therapies are associated with weight gain and metabolic syndrome in HIV-infected patients. This study evaluated the association between gut microbiota and different treatment regimens in HIV-infected patients with metabolic syndrome. The results revealed that both INSTI-based and PI-based regimens were associated with decreased gut microbiota diversity compared to healthy controls. Additionally, the specific bacterial genera were differentially abundant in the two treatment groups with metabolic syndrome.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Boris Revollo, Laura Vinuela, Lorena de la Mora, Federico Garcia, Marc Noguera-Julian, Mariona Parera, Roger Paredes, Josep M. Llibre
Summary: This article reports a case of integrase resistance in a patient treated with co-formulated dolutegravir/lamivudine. It highlights the importance of carefully considering and monitoring drug-drug interactions, even when they are regarded as having a low potential.
JOURNAL OF ANTIMICROBIAL CHEMOTHERAPY
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Sofie Olund Villumsen, Rui Benfeitas, Andreas Dehlbaek Knudsen, Marco Gelpi, Julie Hogh, Magda Teresa Thomsen, Daniel Murray, Henrik Ullum, Ujjwal Neogi, Susanne Dam Nielsen
Summary: This study investigated the lipidomics characteristics and their association with metabolic syndrome (MetS) in people living with HIV (PLWH). The results showed differential abundance of certain lipids between PLWH with and without MetS, and revealed interactions between specific glycerolipid patterns and key metabolites involved in glutamate metabolism. The integration of clinical data further identified the association between visceral adipose tissue and exposure to earlier generations of antiretroviral therapy. These findings suggest that disruptions in glutamate and fatty acid metabolism may contribute to the development of MetS in PLWH.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Hamza Loucif, Xavier Dagenais-Lussier, Cherifa Beji, Lena Cassin, Hani Jrade, Roman Tellitchenko, Jean-Pierre Routy, David Olagnier, Julien van Grevenynghe
Summary: Autophagy/lipophagy can be considered as a therapeutic tool to enhance functional antiviral CD8 T-cell responses, providing new strategies to improve HIV-1-specific CD8A T-cell function. IL21 treatment is effective in rescuing antiviral CD8A T-cell immunity from ART, with the enhanced degradation of endogenous lipids via autophagy playing a critical role in this process.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Fernando Real, Aiwei Zhu, Boxin Huang, Ania Belmellat, Alexis Sennepin, Thomas Vogl, Celine Ransy, Marc Revol, Riccardo Arrigucci, Anne Lombes, Johannes Roth, Maria Laura Gennaro, Frederic Bouillaud, Sarra Cristofari, Morgane Bomsel
Summary: This study found that tissue-resident macrophages contain active HIV-1 virus and can produce and release the virus upon stimulation with the endogenous factor S100A8. These findings have important implications for future HIV eradication strategies.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Leila B. Giron, Clovis S. Palmer, Qin Liu, Xiangfan Yin, Emmanouil Papasavvas, Radwa Sharaf, Behzad Etemad, Mohammad Damra, Aaron R. Goldman, Hsin-Yao Tang, Rowena Johnston, Karam Mounzer, Jay R. Kostman, Pablo Tebas, Alan Landay, Luis J. Montaner, Jeffrey M. Jacobson, Jonathan Z. Li, Mohamed Abdel-Mohsen
Summary: The study identified non-invasive plasma biomarkers that predict both the duration and probability of HIV remission after treatment interruption. These biomarkers were validated in two independent cohorts and were found to be associated with HIV latency reactivation and inflammatory pathways.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Rachel D. Stelmach, Miriam Rabkin, Kouame Abo, Irma Ahoba, Mahena Gildas Anago, Rodrigo Boccanera, Hermann Brou, Rebecca Flueckiger, Kieran Hartsough, Martin Msukwa, Jennifer Zech, Felicity Young, Rachel Nugent
Summary: Despite the availability of free ART in Cote d'Ivoire, most participants still reported out-of-pocket spending on health care, with those with co-morbid NCDs experiencing higher costs.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Mhairi Maskew, Kieran Sharpey-Schafer, Lucien De Voux, Thomas Crompton, Jacob Bor, Marcus Rennick, Admire Chirowodza, Jacqui Miot, Seithati Molefi, Chuka Onaga, Pappie Majuba, Ian Sanne, Pedro Pisa
Summary: This study applied predictive machine learning algorithms to HIV programmatic data from South Africa and developed models to predict patient attendance and viral load suppression. Important predictors included previous visit history, viral load testing frequency, visit time, age, and treatment duration. The results showed that machine learning can effectively identify HIV patients at risk of disengagement and unsuppressed viral load.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Emmanuel Sendaula, Michael Buwembo, Denis Opio
Summary: The holistic care model supports individuals living with HIV in various aspects of their lives, resulting in improved treatment outcomes. Age and adherence are significantly associated with viral load suppression in HIV-infected adults receiving a holistic approach of care.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Barbara Rossetti, Massimiliano Fabbiani, Domenico Di Carlo, Francesca Incardona, Ana Abecasis, Perpetua Gomes, Anna Maria Geretti, Carole Seguin-Devaux, Federico Garcia, Rolf Kaiser, Sara Modica, Adrian Shallvari, Anders Sonnerborg, Maurizio Zazzi
Summary: This large multi-cohort study indicates high effectiveness of elvitegravir- or dolutegravir-based first-line ART in routine practice across Europe. Factors such as baseline viral load and CD4 cell count can affect the treatment outcomes.
JOURNAL OF ANTIMICROBIAL CHEMOTHERAPY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ruxandra-Cristina Marin, Delia Mirela Tit, Oana Sandulescu, Adrian Streinu-Cercel, Simona Gabriela Bungau
Summary: The study found that in HIV-infected subjects, the use of DRV/c in combination with other antiretroviral drugs was better tolerated and had a lower impact on metabolic profiles compared to DRV/r. Specifically, patients in the DRV/c group were at lower risk of developing side effects and metabolic impairments in all body functions studied.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Youngji Jo, Lise Jamieson, Bevis Phiri, Anna Grimsrud, Muya Mwansa, Hilda Shakwelele, Prudence Haimbe, Mpande Mukumbwa-Mwenechanya, Priscilla Lumano Mulenga, Brooke E. Nichols, Sydney Rosen
Summary: To improve access and remove barriers to HIV treatment, many sub-Saharan Africa countries are implementing differentiated service delivery (DSD) models. This study assessed factors associated with attrition after enrollment in DSD models in Zambia, focusing on patient-level characteristics. The results showed that nearly all DSD models out-performed conventional care in terms of retention.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Mary Duro, Cristina Almeida, Ines Duro, Amelia Sarmento
Summary: This study evaluated IgG production in vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals previously infected or not with SARS-CoV-2. The results showed that vaccination led to higher levels of IgG antibodies, which peaked at 4-6 weeks and gradually declined. Individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 showed a slower rate of decrease in IgG antibodies after vaccination.
IRISH JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Carlos Tadashi Kunioka, Maria Conceicao Manso, Marcia Carvalho
Summary: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the relationship between cadmium exposure and postmenopausal osteoporosis. The study found that even low levels of environmental cadmium exposure may increase the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Further research is needed to confirm these findings through prospective studies.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Review
Oncology
Joana Liz-Pimenta, Valeria Tavares, Beatriz Vieira Neto, Joana M. O. Santos, Catarina Brandao Guedes, Antonio Araujo, Alok A. Khorana, Rui Medeiros
Summary: Among cancer patients, thrombosis and cachexia are major causes of morbidity and mortality. Little is known about their possible relationship. Cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) and cancer-associated cachexia (CAC) seem to share several risk factors. Inflammation and metabolic/endocrine derangement may be the missing link between CAT, CAC, and cancer. Many specific pro-inflammatory cytokines, immune cells, and hormones are implicated in both thrombosis and cachexia, suggesting potential therapeutic targets. Further epidemiological studies are needed to explore this potential relationship and better manage cancer patients.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ONCOLOGY HEMATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jani Silva, Valeria Tavares, Ana Afonso, Juliana Garcia, Fatima Cerqueira, Rui Medeiros
Summary: Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignancy and advanced PCa leads to metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). This study evaluated the prognostic potential of miRNAs in liquid biopsies of mCRPC patients treated with ARAT agents. Low expression levels of miR-16-5p and miR-145-5p were associated with lower PFS in patients treated with abiraterone acetate. Low miR-20a-5p levels were associated with worse OS in patients with Gleason scores of <8.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Rui Azevedo, Davide Gennaro, Mary Duro, Edgar Pinto, Agostinho Almeida
Summary: Previous studies have shown that haemodialysis patients have an increased risk of trace element imbalances. In this study, both serum and whole blood concentrations of a wide panel of trace elements in haemodialysis patients were determined and compared with those of a control group. The results indicate that chronic haemodialysis may affect intra- and extracellular blood compartments differently, leading to significant trace element imbalances.
Article
Microbiology
Maria Manuela Estevinho, Jose Cabeda, Mafalda Santiago, Elisabete Machado, Ricardo Silva, Mary Duro, Ines Pita, Rui Morais, Guilherme Macedo, Tim J. Bull, Fernando Magro, Amelia Sarmento
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of viable Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) and Escherichia coli isolates with adherence/invasive ability (AIEC) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. The results showed that MAP was more frequently cultured from the blood and faecal samples of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and cirrhosis, while most individuals' faecal samples had isolates of AIEC-like E. coli. However, only three confirmed E. coli isolates had an AIEC-like phenotype. This study confirmed the association between MAP and CD, but did not find a strong association between the presence of AIEC and CD.
Review
Biology
Cristina Almeida, Ana Luisa Teixeira, Francisca Dias, Mariana Morais, Rui Medeiros
Summary: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are vehicles of cell communication that can carry various biomolecules derived from parent cells, which may represent oncogenic behavior in a cancer context, delivering them to recipient cells. EVs have advantageous features such as biocompatibility and high stability, making them useful as delivery systems for potential anticancer drugs. This review highlights the potential application of EVs as drug delivery systems and their clinical applications.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Gergana Novakova, Presian Bonev, Mary Duro, Rui Azevedo, Cristina Couto, Edgar Pinto, Agostinho Almeida
Summary: Patients on chronic hemodialysis therapy have normal serum iodine levels but significantly decreased serum bromine levels. This finding may be associated with sleep disturbances and fatigue in these patients. Further investigation is needed to determine the clinical significance.
Review
Veterinary Sciences
Tiago Ferreira, Adelina Gama, Fernanda Seixas, Ana I. I. Faustino-Rocha, Carlos Lopes, Vitor M. Gaspar, Joao F. Mano, Rui Medeiros, Paula A. A. Oliveira
Summary: This review compares the anatomy, epidemiology, and histopathological features of mammary glands and breast cancer in women, female dogs, and female rats. It discusses the advantages and limitations of using these models and highlights their translational potential. Female dogs and female rats have contributed significantly to breast cancer research and can provide valuable insights for human medicine.
VETERINARY SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ines Soares Marques, Valeria Tavares, Beatriz Vieira Neto, Ines N. R. Mota, Deolinda Pereira, Rui Medeiros
Summary: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), a common cardiovascular disorder in Western countries, is caused by haemostatic irregularities leading to thrombus formation in veins. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may play a role in VTE pathogenesis, but their clinical usefulness as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for VTE management is still unclear. This article reviewed the current evidence on lncRNAs associated with VTE and the coagulation system, highlighting the need for further investigation in this field for disease prediction, prevention, and treatment.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Oncology
Beatriz Almeida, Tania R. Dias, Ana Luisa Teixeira, Francisca Dias, Rui Medeiros
Summary: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a global pandemic known as coronavirus disease (COVID-19), resulting in millions of deaths worldwide. However, there are still unanswered questions regarding its impact on public health, such as the effect of vaccination on vulnerable populations like cancer patients. Immunosuppression in these individuals can lead to a dysfunctional antiviral response to viral infection and compromised vaccination response. This review focuses on the role of extracellular vesicle-derived microRNAs in COVID-19 infection and their potential as prognostic biomarkers for vaccination response in cancer patients.
Review
Oncology
Leandro Lima da Silva, Amanda Mara Teles, Joana M. O. Santos, Marcelo Souza de Andrade, Rui Medeiros, Ana I. Faustino-Rocha, Paula A. Oliveira, Ana Paula Azevedo dos Santos, Fernanda Ferreira Lopes, Geraldo Braz, Haissa O. Brito, Rui M. Gil da Costa
Summary: High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with cervical cancer, other anogenital cancers, and oropharyngeal carcinomas. Low-risk HPV, especially HPV6 and HPV11, can cause genital warts and laryngeal papillomas. However, there is evidence suggesting that HPV6 and HPV11 may also cause malignant lesions at non-cervical anatomic sites.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Angela Inacio, Laura Aguiar, Beatriz Rodrigues, Patricia Pires, Joana Ferreira, Andreia Matos, Ines Mendonca, Raquel Rosa, Manuel Bicho, Rui Medeiros, Maria Clara Bicho
Summary: This study comprehensively investigates the modulation of HPV infection, HSIL, and ICC through oxidative stress-related genes and uncovers the pivotal role of four genes, including ACE1, NOS3, GSTT1, and ACP1, in HPV-associated cervical lesions and cancer development.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Joana M. O. Santos, Valeria Tavares, Rui M. Gil da Costa, Rui Medeiros
Summary: By analyzing transgenic mouse and clinical data, it was found that miR-150 and miR-155 may potentially serve as prognostic biomarkers in cervical cancer patients.
