25 results on '"Marino, Franca"'
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2. Expression of Transcription Factors in CD4 + T Cells as Potential Biomarkers of Motor Complications in Parkinson’s Disease
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Contaldi, Elena, Magistrelli, Luca, Milner, Anna Vera, Cosentino, Marco, Marino, Franca, and Comi, Cristoforo
- Abstract
Background: Management of motor complications (MC) represents a major challenge in the long-term treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. In this context, the role of peripheral adaptive immunity may provide new insights, since neuroinflammatory mechanisms have been proved crucial in the disease.Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the transcription factors genes involved in CD4 + T cells development to uncover specific molecular signatures in patients with (PMC) and without (WMC) motor complications.Methods: mRNA levels of CD4 + T lymphocytes transcription factor genes TBX21, STAT1, STAT3, STAT4, STAT6, RORC, GATA3, FOXP3, and NR4A2were measured from 40 PD patients, divided into two groups according to motor complications. Also, 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled.Results: WMC patients had higher levels of STAT1and NR4A2(p= 0.004; p= 0.003), whereas in PMC we found higher levels of STAT6(p= 0.04). Also, a ROC curve analysis confirmed STAT1and NR4A2as feasible biomarkers to discriminate WMC (AUC = 0.76, 95%CI 0.59–0.92, p= 0.005; AUC = 0.75, 95%CI 0.58–0.90, p= 0.007). Similarly, STAT6detected PMC patients (AUC = 0.69, 95%CI 0.52–0.86, p= 0.037).Conclusion: These results provide evidence of different molecular signatures in CD 4 + T cells of PD patients with and without MC, thus suggesting their potential as biomarkers of MC development. more...
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- 2021
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3. Expression of Transcription Factors in CD4 + T Cells as Potential Biomarkers of Motor Complications in Parkinson’s Disease
- Author
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Contaldi, Elena, Magistrelli, Luca, Milner, Anna Vera, Cosentino, Marco, Marino, Franca, and Comi, Cristoforo
- Abstract
Management of motor complications (MC) represents a major challenge in the long-term treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. In this context, the role of peripheral adaptive immunity may provide new insights, since neuroinflammatory mechanisms have been proved crucial in the disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the transcription factors genes involved in CD4 + T cells development to uncover specific molecular signatures in patients with (PMC) and without (WMC) motor complications. mRNA levels of CD4 + T lymphocytes transcription factor genes TBX21, STAT1, STAT3, STAT4, STAT6, RORC, GATA3, FOXP3, and NR4A2were measured from 40 PD patients, divided into two groups according to motor complications. Also, 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled. WMC patients had higher levels of STAT1and NR4A2(p = 0.004; p = 0.003), whereas in PMC we found higher levels of STAT6(p = 0.04). Also, a ROC curve analysis confirmed STAT1and NR4A2as feasible biomarkers to discriminate WMC (AUC = 0.76, 95%CI 0.59–0.92, p = 0.005; AUC = 0.75, 95%CI 0.58–0.90, p = 0.007). Similarly, STAT6detected PMC patients (AUC = 0.69, 95%CI 0.52–0.86, p = 0.037). These results provide evidence of different molecular signatures in CD 4 + T cells of PD patients with and without MC, thus suggesting their potential as biomarkers of MC development. more...
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- 2021
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4. Effect of beta-blockers on survival of lung cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
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Coelho, Marisa, Squizzato, Alessandro, Cassina, Niccolò, Marino, Franca, Ribeiro, Laura Virgínia, and Cosentino, Marco
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Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.The recent interest in beta-blockers as possible agents for drug repurposing in oncology arises from many pre-clinical and epidemiologic studies suggesting a possible clinically relevant antitumour effect. In lung cancer, given the contradictory results obtained, it is crucial to further study its effects. A systematic review of the literature was planned to evaluate a possible beneficial effect of beta-blocker on overall survival in lung cancer patients. Medline and Embase databases were searched from inception until 1 May 2018 to identify published studies that assessed the effect beta-blocker use on overall survival in lung cancer patients. Risk of bias was evaluated by Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for overall survival were estimated using a random-effects model. Of 920 studies, seven (all retrospective and observational, six cohort and one case-control), including 7448 patients, met the inclusion criteria. Beta-blocker users with lung cancer had no increased overall survival compared to non-users (hazard ratio = 1.00; 95% confidence interval = 0.91–1.10; I2= 45%). Similarly, beta-blocker users with non-small cell lung cancer had no increased overall survival compared to beta-blocker non-users (hazard ratio = 0.96; 95% confidence interval = 0.80–1.17; I2= 56%). Our findings do not suggest an overall survival advantage in patients with lung cancer using beta-blocker therapy when compared to non-users. Further prospective cohort studies, designed to overcome the intrinsic limitations of retrospective observational studies are warranted to definitively clarify any possible beneficial effect of beta-blockers on lung cancer overall survival. more...
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- 2020
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5. A nationwide web-based survey of a sample of Italian community pharmacists' perceptions and opinions about online sales of medicines and falsified drugs.
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LOMBARDO, Simona, MARINO, Franca, and COSENTINO, Marco
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COMMUNITY health workers ,CONFIDENCE ,HOSPITAL pharmacies ,INTERNET ,MEDICAL prescriptions ,PHARMACISTS ,PROFESSIONS ,QUESTIONNAIRES ,SALES personnel ,SEX distribution ,SURVEYS ,THERAPEUTICS ,WORK environment ,WORLD Wide Web ,OCCUPATIONAL roles ,PSYCHOSOCIAL factors ,ATTITUDES of medical personnel ,WORK experience (Employment) - Abstract
Background: Throughout Europe, legal online pharmacies increasingly sell online drugs as well as other products such as dietary supplements. Online sale of pharmaceuticals however is closely connected to the phenomenon of drug falsification. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the opinions of a sample of Italian community pharmacists towards the sale of pharmaceuticals on the web, as well as their knowledge and experience with falsified drugs. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed by means of an online platform between October 2016 and January 2017. Collected information included: demographics, workplace and role, opinions towards the online sale of pharmaceuticals, whether the pharmacy has a website, knowledge and opinions about falsified drugs. Results: A total of 668 community pharmacists completed the questionnaire (mean age: 48.5, SD 12.4 years, 52.3% women). Favourable opinions about online sale of pharmaceuticals were expressed by 4.9% of participants for prescription drugs, 25.4% for nonprescription drugs, and 51.6% for other products. Favourable opinions occurred more often among males and owners/directors of pharmacies in comparison to females and employees, and among pharmacists working in pharmacies with websites doing ecommerce. Knowledge about falsified drugs was limited, with 24.5% of respondents failing to indicate that falsified drugs may contain less or different ingredients, 46.4% less and/or different excipients, and 72.3% ignoring that falsified drugs may be lethal. One in 3 respondents didn't know about falsified drugs in Italy, however 51 participants had previous experience with falsified drugs and 21 provided specific information. Conclusions: Italian community pharmacists have low confidence in the online sale of pharmaceuticals, as well as alarmingly limited knowledge about falsified drugs, even if many of them reported previous experiences. Results may support targeted interventions to increase pharmacists' knowledge about pharmaceuticals and the web, as well as concerning falsified drugs, and suggest community pharmacies as key components of integrated systems aimed at monitoring falsified drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...
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- 2019
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6. Peripheral Immunity, Immunoaging and Neuroinflammation in Parkinson’s Disease
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Kustrimovic, Natasa, Marino, Franca, and Cosentino, Marco
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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder among elderly population, characterized by the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain. To date, exact cause remains unknown and the mechanism of neurons death uncertain. It is typically considered as a disease of central nervous system (CNS). Nevertheless, numerous evidence has been accumulated in several past years testifying undoubtedly about the principal role of neuroinflammation in progression of PD. Neuroinflammation is mainly associated with presence of activated microglia in brain and elevated levels of cytokine levels in CNS. Nevertheless, active participation of immune system as well has been noted, such as, elevated levels of cytokine levels in blood, the presence of auto antibodies, and the infiltration of T cell in CNS. Moreover, infiltration and reactivation of those T cells could exacerbate neuroinflammation to greater neurotoxic levels. Hence, peripheral inflammation is able to prime microglia into pro-inflammatory phenotype, which can trigger stronger response in CNS further perpetuating the on-going neurodegenerative process. In the present review, the interplay between neuroinflammation and the peripheral immune response in the pathobiology of PD will be discussed. First of all, an overview of regulation of microglial activation and neuroinflammation is summarized and discussed. Afterwards, we try to collectively analyze changes that occurs in peripheral immune system of PD patients, suggesting that these peripheral immune challenges can exacerbate the process of neuroinflammation and hence the symptoms of the disease. In the end, we summarize some of proposed immunotherapies for treatment of PD. more...
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- 2019
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7. β2‐Adrenoceptors inhibit neutrophil extracellular traps in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes
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Marino, Franca, Scanzano, Angela, Pulze, Laura, Pinoli, Monica, Rasini, Emanuela, Luini, Alessandra, Bombelli, Raffaella, Legnaro, Massimiliano, Eguileor, Magda, and Cosentino, Marco
- Abstract
This study tests the hypothesis that in isolated human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) adrenergic ligands can affect neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. We have previously shown that, in PMN, adrenaline (A), through the activation of adrenergic receptors (AR), reduces stimulus‐dependent cell activation; we have, therefore, planned to investigate if AR are involved in NET production. PMN were obtained from venous blood of healthy subject. The ability of adrenergic ligands to affect reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, NET production, and cell migration was investigated in cells cultured under resting conditions or after activation with N‐formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine (fMLP), LPS, or IL‐8. Stimuli‐induced NET production measured as ROS, microscopic evaluation, and elastase production was reverted by A and this effect was blocked by the selective β2–AR antagonist ICI‐118,551. The stimulus‐induced ROS generation and migration was prevented by A and by isoprenaline (ISO), and these effects were counteracted only by ICI‐118,551 and not by the other two selective ligands for the β1and β3–AR. Finally, the presence of the β–ARs on PMN was confirmed, by means of microscopy and flow cytometry. The data of the present study suggest that adrenergic compounds, through the interaction of mainly β2–AR, are able to affect neutrophil functions. These data are suggestive of a possible therapeutic role of β2–AR ligands (in addition to their classical use), promoting the possible therapeutic relevance of adrenergic system in the modulation of innate immunity proposing their possible use as anti‐inflammatory drugs. Adrenergic compounds modify NET production by human neutrophils and are able to affect other key functions of these cells. more...
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- 2018
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8. Neutrophils and clinical outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndromes and/or cardiac revascularisation
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Guasti, Luigina, Dentali, Francesco, Castiglioni, Luana, Maroni, Lorenzo, Marino, Franca, Squizzato, Alessandro, Ageno, Walter, Gianni, Monica, Gaudio, Giovanni, Grandi, Anna M., Cosentino, Marco, and Venco, Achille more...
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- 2011
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9. Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor Expression and Interleukin-8 Production in Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes of Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease
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Marino, Franca, Guasti, Luigina, Tozzi, Matteo, Consuelo Maio, Ramona, Castiglioni, Luana, Rasini, Emanuela, Schembri, Laura, Maroni, Lorenzo, Legnaro, Massimiliano, De Leo, Alessandra, Piffaretti, Gabriele, Castelli, Patrizio, Venco, Achille, Lecchini, Sergio, and Cosentino, Marco more...
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We investigated angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) expression and interleukin-8 (IL-8) productions in polymorphonuclear leukocytes obtained from patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) undergoing femoral endarterectomy. Subjects at high cardiovascular risk (high-risk subjects, HRS) and healthy controls (HC) were also enrolled. To this end, patients with PAD were studied 1 month before surgery, at the time of surgery, and 3 and 6 months after surgery. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes were obtained from venous blood and evaluated for AT1R expression at messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein level and IL-8 production (by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). At baseline, AT1R membrane expression was similar in cells from patients with PAD, HRS, and HC, whereas AT1R mRNA was similar in patients with PAD and HC and higher in HRS. During the follow-up period, AT1R expression progressively decreased both on the cell membrane and at the mRNA level. Both resting and stimulated production of IL-8 was lower in patients with PAD in comparison to HC and HRS and did not change during the follow up period. In PAD patients, femoral endarterectomy is associated with reduction of AT1R expression however with no apparent effect on IL-8 production. The relevance of such effects for cardiovascular protection deserves consideration. more...
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- 2009
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10. Simvastatin treatment in subjects at high cardiovascular risk modulates AT1R expression on circulating monocytes and T lymphocytes
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Marino, Franca, Guasti, Luigina, Cosentino, Marco, Rasini, Emanuela, Ferrari, Marco, Maio, Ramona Consuelo, Loraschi, Anna, Cimpanelli, Maria Grazia, Schembri, Laura, Legnaro, Massimiliano, Molteni, Elisabetta, Crespi, Chiara, Crema, Francesca, Venco, Achille, and Lecchini, Sergio more...
- Abstract
Angiotensin II, through the activation of angiotensin II type 1 receptors, plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis. Statins may interfere with the effects of angiotensin II.
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- 2008
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11. Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Expression in Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes From High-Risk Subjects Changes After Treatment With Simvastatin
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Marino, Franca, Guasti, Luigina, Cosentino, Marco, Ferrari, Marco, Rasini, Emanuela, Maio, Ramona Consuelo, Cimpanelli, Maria Grazia, Cereda, Elena, Crespi, Chiara, Simoni, Cinzia, Restelli, Daniela, Venco, Achille, and Lecchini, Sergio more...
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Statins may directly interfere with the effects of angiotensin (Ang) II, which is a key player in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (ATH). Ang II promotes a wide array of detrimental processes including a prominent proinflammatory effect, increasingly regarded as a target for therapeutic intervention. Because the proinflammatory effects of Ang II are exerted mainly through the activation of Ang II type 1 receptors (AT1Rs) the present study was devised to investigate by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and flow cytometry techniques the expression of such receptors on circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) from subjects at high risk for vascular events before and during treatment with simvastatin and in sex- and age-matched healthy controls. In vitro experiments were also performed to assess the ability of simvastatin to interfere with Ang II signaling in human PMNs. In comparison to controls, high-risk subjects had similar AT1R expression on the cell membranes but significantly higher AT1R messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels. Treatment of high-risk subjects with simvastatin for 30 days resulted in a reduction of AT1R mRNA down to the levels of cells from healthy subjects. In vitro, Ang II-induced activation of the guanosine triphosphate (GTP)-binding protein Rac 1 in human PMNs was inhibited by simvastatin. In conclusion, simvastatin induces downregulation of AT1R expression, interferes with Ang II activity in PMNs, and contributes to the antiinflammatory profile of statins that can explain the therapeutic effects of these drugs. more...
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- 2007
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12. Human CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells selectively express tyrosine hydroxylase and contain endogenous catecholamines subserving an autocrine/paracrine inhibitory functional loop
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Cosentino, Marco, Fietta, Anna Maria, Ferrari, Marco, Rasini, Emanuela, Bombelli, Raffaella, Carcano, Elena, Saporiti, Federica, Meloni, Federica, Marino, Franca, and Lecchini, Sergio
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CD4+CD25+ regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) are specialized T cells playing a key role in the control of immune homeostasis. Here, we show that human Tregs constitutively express tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, EC 1.14.16.2), the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of catecholamines, and contain substantial amounts of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which are released upon treatment with reserpine. Catecholamine release results in reduced production of interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β by Tregs, and in down-regulation of Treg-dependent inhibition of effector T-lymphocyte (Teff) proliferation, which occurs without affecting the production of tumor necrosis factor-α or interferon-γ. Tregs and Teffs express on the cell membrane both D1-like and D2-like dopaminergic receptors to a similar extent (12%-29% of the cells). Catecholamine-dependent down-regulation of Tregs is, however, selectively reversed by pharmacological blockade of dopaminergic D1-like receptors, which in Tregs only (and not in Teffs) are also expressed at the level of mRNA and are functionally coupled to intracellular production of cAMP. These findings indicate that in human Tregs endogenous catecholamines subserve an autocrine/paracrine loop involving dopaminergic pathways and resulting in down-regulation of Treg function. more...
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- 2007
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13. Human CD4+CD25+regulatory T cells selectively express tyrosine hydroxylase and contain endogenous catecholamines subserving an autocrine/paracrine inhibitory functional loop
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Cosentino, Marco, Fietta, Anna Maria, Ferrari, Marco, Rasini, Emanuela, Bombelli, Raffaella, Carcano, Elena, Saporiti, Federica, Meloni, Federica, Marino, Franca, and Lecchini, Sergio
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CD4+CD25+regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) are specialized T cells playing a key role in the control of immune homeostasis. Here, we show that human Tregs constitutively express tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, EC 1.14.16.2), the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of catecholamines, and contain substantial amounts of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which are released upon treatment with reserpine. Catecholamine release results in reduced production of interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β by Tregs, and in down-regulation of Treg-dependent inhibition of effector T-lymphocyte (Teff) proliferation, which occurs without affecting the production of tumor necrosis factor-α or interferon-γ. Tregs and Teffs express on the cell membrane both D1-like and D2-like dopaminergic receptors to a similar extent (12%-29% of the cells). Catecholamine-dependent down-regulation of Tregs is, however, selectively reversed by pharmacological blockade of dopaminergic D1-like receptors, which in Tregs only (and not in Teffs) are also expressed at the level of mRNA and are functionally coupled to intracellular production of cAMP. These findings indicate that in human Tregs endogenous catecholamines subserve an autocrine/paracrine loop involving dopaminergic pathways and resulting in down-regulation of Treg function. more...
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- 2007
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14. Simvastatin treatment modifies polymorphonuclear leukocyte function in high-risk individuals a longitudinal study
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Guasti, Luigina, Marino, Franca, Cosentino, Marco, Cimpanelli, Mariagrazia, Maio, Ramona C, Klersy, Catherine, Crespi, Chiara, Restelli, Daniela, Simoni, Cinzia, Franzetti, Ivano, Gaudio, Giovanni, Marnini, Patrizio, Grandi, Anna M, Lecchini, Sergio, and Venco, Achille more...
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Although extensive experimental evidence supports a primary role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) in atherosclerosis, few data exist concerning the functional properties of these cells and their pharmacological modulation in high-risk individuals. more...
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- 2006
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15. Intracellular calcium changes induced by the endozepine triakontatetraneuropeptide in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes: Role of protein kinase C and effect of calcium channel blockers
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Marino, Franca, Cosentino, Marco, Ferrari, Marco, Cattaneo, Simona, Frigo, Giuseppina, Fietta, Anna, Lecchini, Sergio, and Frigo, Gian
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Abstract: Background: The endozepine triakontatetraneuropepti de (TTN) induces intracellular calcium ([Ca
++ ]i ) changes followed by activation in human polymorphonuclear le ukocytes (PMNs). The present, study was undertaken to investigate the role of protein kinase (PK) C in the modulation of the response to TTN by human PMNs, and to examine the pharmacology of TTN-induced Ca++ entry through the plasma membrane of these cells. Results: The PKC activator 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (PMA) concentration-dependently inhibited TTN-induced [Ca++ ]i rise, and this, effect was reverted by the PKC inhibitors rottlerin (partially) and Ro 32-0432 (completely). PMA also inhibited TTN-induced IL-8 mRNA expression. In the absence of PM A, however, rottlerin (but not Ro 32-0432) per se partially inhibited TTN-induced [Ca++ ]i rise. The response of [Ca++ ]i to TTN was also sensitive to mibefradil and flunarizine (T-type Ca++ -channel blockers), but not to nife dipine, verapamil (L-type) or ω-conotoxin GVIA (N-type). In agreement with thisobservation, PCR analysis showed the expression in human PMNs of the mRNA for all the α‖ subunits of T-type Ca++ channels (namely, α‖G, α‖H, and α∥). Conclusions: In human PMNs TTN activates PKC- modulated pathways leading to Ca++ entry possibly through T-type Ca++ channels. more...- Published
- 2003
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16. Dopaminergic Modulation of Apoptosis in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
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COLOMBO, CRISTINA, COSENTINO, MARCO, MARINO, FRANCA, RASINI, EMANUELA, OSSOLA, MARIA, BLANDINI, FABIO, MANGIAGALLI, ANNA, SAMUELE, ALBERTA, FERRARI, MARCO, BOMBELLI, RAFFAELLA, LECCHINI, SERGIO, NAPPI, GIUSEPPE, and FRIGO, GIANMARIO more...
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Abstract: Dopamine (DA) modulates apoptosis in neuronal and non‐neuronal cells, and dopaminergic pathways contribute to neurodegenerative disease. Human lymphocytes express dopaminergic receptors and DA transporters, and synthesize endogenous catecholamines, which may modulate apoptosis in these cells. In the present study, dopaminergic modulation of apoptosis was investigated in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from healthy donors. Twenty‐four‐hour DA reduced at 0.1–5 × 3 10−6M and enhanced at 1–5 × 310−4M spontaneous apoptosis. DA 1 × 310−6M was inhibited by the D1‐like receptor antagonist SCH 23390 1 × 310−6M, but not by the D2‐like receptor antagonists domperidone 1 × 3 10−6M or haloperidol 1 × 3 10−6M, while the effect of DA 5 × 3 10−4M was prevented by the antioxidants glutathione 5–10 mM or N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine 1–10 mM. Intracellular reactive oxygen species were respectively reduced and increased by 1–3 h incubation with DA 0.1–10 × 3 10−6M and 1–5×310−4M. Twenty‐four‐hour DA 1 × 3 10−6M or 5 × 3 10−4M had no effect on PBMC expression of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase or Bcl‐2; however, DA 5 × 3 10−4M decreased caspase‐3 activity. In human PBMCs, DA seems to promote apoptosis through oxidative mechanisms but may also result in cell rescue from apoptotic death possibly through activation of D1‐like receptors. The dual effect of DA on human PBMCs closely resembles that on striatal neurons. Lymphocytes of patients with Parkinson's disease may show reduced DA content and impaired DA transporter immunoreactivity. Human PBMCs may thus represent a simple and readily accessible model to study DA‐related mechanisms relevant for neurodegenerative disease. more...
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- 2003
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17. Diazepam‐binding inhibitor‐derived peptides induce intracellular calcium changes and modulate human neutrophil function
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Cosentino, Marco, Marino, Franca, Cattaneo, Simona, Di Grazia, Laura, Francioli, Cristina, Fietta, Anna Maria, Lecchini, Sergio, and Frigo, Gianmario
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We studied the effects of two diazepambinding inhibitor (DBI)‐derived peptides, triakonta‐tetraneuropeptide (DBI 17–50, TTN) and eiksoneuropeptide (DBI 51–70, ENP), on cytosolic free Ca2+concentrations ([Ca2+]i), chemotaxis, superoxide anion (O) generation, and phagocytosis in human neutrophils. Both TTN and ENP induced a rapid and transient rise of [Ca2+]i. The effect of TTN depended on the presence of extracellular Ca2+, whereas the effect of ENP also persisted after extracellular Ca2+chelation. TTN induced neutrophil chemotaxis, stimulated O generation, and enhanced phagocytosis. ENP did not affect cell migration and oxidative metabolism but enhanced phagocytosis. Both peptides modulated N‐formylmethionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine‐ and phorbol myristate acetate‐induced O generation. Because neutrophils express benzodiazepine receptors of the peripheral type (pBRs) and DBI‐derived peptides may interact with such receptors, we investigated the possible role of pBRs in TTN‐ or ENP‐induced effects. The synthetic pBR ligand RO 5‐4864 increased [Ca2+]ithrough extracellular Ca2+influx and this effect was prevented by the pBR antagonist PK‐11195. RO 5‐4864, however, was ineffective on neutrophil migration and O generation and only slightly affected phagocytosis. Moreover, PK‐11195 delayed the [Ca2+]irise induced by TTN but did not significantly affect its extent, and had no effect on the [Ca2+]irise induced by ENP. We conclude that DBI‐derived peptides induce [Ca2+]ichanges and modulate neutrophil function mainly through pBR‐independent pathways. In view of the wide cell and tissue distribution of DBI in the brain and in peripheral organs, modulation of neutrophil function by DBI‐derived peptides may be relevant for both the neuroimmune network and the development and regulation of the inflammatory processes. J. Leukoc. Biol.67:637–643; 2000. more...
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- 2000
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18. Expression of apoptosis-related proteins and of mRNA for dopaminergic receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with Alzheimer disease.
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Cosentino M, Colombo C, Mauri M, Ferrari M, Corbetta S, Marino F, Bono G, Lecchini S, Cosentino, Marco, Colombo, Cristina, Mauri, Marco, Ferrari, Marco, Corbetta, Simona, Marino, Franca, Bono, Giorgio, and Lecchini, Sergio more...
- Abstract
In search for biomarkers of neurodegeneration, increasing attention has been focussed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). In particular, PBMC from patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) have been suggested to carry apoptotic changes and alterations of neurotransmitter receptor expression, which may resemble those occurring in central nervous system neurons. We investigated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 and the levels of dopaminergic receptors (DR) D3 and D5 mRNA in PBMC from 17 AD patients and 11 age-matched healthy subjects. Apoptosis-related proteins were assayed by standard Western blotting analysis and DR mRNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques. PBMC from healthy subjects and from AD patients expressed Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 to about the same extent, and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio did not differ in the 2 groups. Levels of mRNA for DRD3 and DRD5 were similar in cells from healthy subjects and from AD patients. In conclusion, we found no evidence that PBMC from AD patients may express apoptosis-related proteins or DR mRNA to any different extent in comparison to cells from healthy subjects. These findings do not necessarily imply that immune cells cannot be exploited as biomarkers in AD (and in other central nervous system disorders). Future studies, however, should take into account the inherent complexity of the immune network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...
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- 2009
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19. Expression of Apoptosis-related Proteins and of mRNA for Dopaminergic Receptors in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells From Patients With Alzheimer Disease.
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Cosentino, Marco, Colombo, Cristina, Mauri, Marco, Ferrari, Marco, Corbetta, Simona, Marino, Franca, Bono, Giorgio, and Lecchini, Sergio
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In search for biomarkers of neurodegeneration, increasing attention has been focussed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). In particular, PBMC from patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) have been suggested to carry apoptotic changes and alterations of neurotransmitter receptor expression, which may resemble those occurring in central nervous system neurons. We investigated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 and the levels of dopaminergic receptors (DR) D3 ahd D5 mRNA in PBMC from 17 AD patients and 11 age-matched healthy subjects. Apoptosis-related proteins were assayed by standard Western blotting analysis and DR mRNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques. PBMC from healthy subjects and from AD patients expressed Bcl- 2, Bax, and caspase-3 to about the same extent, and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio did not differ in the 2 groups. Levels of mRNA for DRD3 and DRD5 were similar in cells from healthy subjects and from AD patients. in conclusion, we found no evidence that PBMC from AD patients may express apoptosis-related proteins or DR mRNA to any different extent in comparison to cells from healthy subjects. These findings do not necessarily imply that immune cells cannot be exploited as biomarkers in AD (and in other central nervous system disorders). Future studies, however, should take into account the inherent complexity of the immune network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...
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- 2009
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20. Inhibition of Endogenous Acetylcholine Release by Blockade of Voltage-dependent Calcium Channels in Enteric Neurons of the Guinea-pig Colon
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Marino, Franca, Marcoli, Manuela, De Ponti, Fabrizio, Lecchini, Sergio, Castelletti, Carlo Maria, and Frigo, Gian Mario
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The effects on acetylcholine release from the guinea-pig colon of the N-type calcium channel blocker ω-conotoxin GVIA (ω-conotoxin), the L-type calcium channel blocker nifedipine and the putative blocker of T-type channels, flunarizine, have been investigated. Endogenous basal acetylcholine release and electrically (1 Hz, 1 ms, 450 mA)-evoked overflow in the presence of cholinesterase inhibitor were studied. ω-Conotoxin (1–10 nM) and nifedipine (0·03–3 μm) dose-dependently inhibited basal and electrically-evoked acetylcholine release. Maximal inhibition of basal or electrically-evoked acetylcholine release was about 40% for nifedipine and about 75% for ω-conotoxin. The potency of nifedipine was inversely related to the external calcium concentration: its EC50 value in low-calcium medium (0·5 Mm) was as low as 12 Nm. Flunarizine inhibited acetylcholine release only at concentrations higher than 0·2 μm. Our results are consistent with an involvement of N- and L-type calcium channels in the control of the endogenous acetylcholine release from the guinea-pig colon. more...
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- 1993
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21. Effect of desipramine-induced blockade of neuronal uptake mechanisms on adrenoceptor-mediated responses in the guinea-pig colon
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Marino, Franca, Marcoli, Manuela, Ponti, Fabrizio, Cosentino, Marco, Lecchini, Sergio, and Frigo, Gian Mario
- Abstract
In order to clarify whether adrenoceptors in the guinea-pig distal colon are under sympathetic control, we assessed possible variations in the sensitivity to adrenoceptor agonists after blockade of neuronal catecholamine uptake mechanisms by desipramine (DMI). First, experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of DMI added in the organ bath on propulsion velocity, endogenous and [3H] prelabelled acetylcholine overflow, electrically evoked noradrenaline overflow and longitudinal smooth muscle tone. Secondly, we studied the effects of adrenoceptor agonists on the above parameters in untreated animals and in animals chronically treated with DMI. more...
- Published
- 1994
- Full Text
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22. Opioid pathways exert a tonic restraint in the guinea-pig isolated colon: changes after chronic sympathetic denervation
- Author
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Marino, Franca, Creta, Filomena, De Ponti, Fabrizio, Giaroni, Cristina, Lecchini, Sergio, and Frigo, Gian Mario
- Abstract
We have studied the effects of naloxone on acetylcholine and noradrenaline release in the guinea-pig isolated distal colon, and have assessed the effect of naloxone on electrically-induced contractions of the longitudinal muscle and non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) relaxations of the circular muscle coat. Naloxone dose-dependently increased resting and electrically-evoked acetylcholine release and electrically-evoked noradrenaline release. Naloxone was more potent in increasing resting acetylcholine release in colonic specimens obtained after chronic sympathetic denervation. Naloxone (1 μm) did not affect electrically-induced contractions of the longitudinal muscle, while it enhanced NANC relaxations of the circular muscle. The effects observed with naloxone in the present experiments suggest that opioid pathways exert a tonic restraint on neurotransmission in the guinea-pig colon. After suppression of the adrenergic inhibitory tone, the functional relevance of opioid pathways seems to be increased. more...
- Published
- 1993
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23. Multiple sclerosis: Repurposing dopaminergic drugs for MS — the evidence mounts
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Marino, Franca and Cosentino, Marco
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
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24. Resistance of naturally occurring regulatory T cells toward oxidative stress: possible link with intracellular catecholamine content and implications for cancer therapy
- Author
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Cosentino, Marco, Marino, Franca, and Lecchini, Sergio
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
25. Resistance of naturally occurring regulatory T cells toward oxidative stress: possible link with intracellular catecholamine content and implications for cancer therapy
- Author
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Cosentino, Marco, Marino, Franca, and Lecchini, Sergio
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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