Life | February 2021 - Browse Articles

15 pages, 1516 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Proteomic Insight into the Symbiotic Relationship of Pinus massoniana Lamb and Suillus luteus towards Developing Al-Stress Resistance

by Haiyan Liu, Houying Chen, Guijie Ding, Kuaifen Li and Yao Wang

Life 2021, 11(2), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020177 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2161

Abstract

Global warming significantly impacts forest range areas by increasing soil acidification or aluminum toxicity. Aluminum (Al) toxicity retards plant growth by inhibiting the root development process, hindering water uptake, and limiting the bioavailability of other essential micronutrients. Pinus massoniana (masson pine), globally recognized [...] Read more.

Global warming significantly impacts forest range areas by increasing soil acidification or aluminum toxicity. Aluminum (Al) toxicity retards plant growth by inhibiting the root development process, hindering water uptake, and limiting the bioavailability of other essential micronutrients. Pinus massoniana (masson pine), globally recognized as a reforestation plant, is resistant to stress conditions including biotic and abiotic stresses. This resistance is linked to the symbiotic relationship with diverse ectomycorrhizal fungal species. In the present study, we investigated the genetic regulators as expressed proteins, conferring a symbiotic relationship between Al-stress resistance and Suillus luteus in masson pine. Multi-treatment trials resulted in the identification of 12 core Al-stress responsive proteins conserved between Al stress conditions with or without S. luteus inoculation. These proteins are involved in chaperonin CPN60-2, protein refolding and ATP-binding, Cu-Zn-superoxide dismutase precursor, oxidation-reduction process, and metal ion binding, phosphoglycerate kinase 1, glycolytic process, and metabolic process. Furthermore, 198 Al responsive proteins were identified specifically under S. luteus-inoculation and are involved in gene regulation, metabolic process, oxidation-reduction process, hydrolase activity, and peptide activity. Chlorophyll a-b binding protein, endoglucanase, putative spermidine synthase, NADH dehydrogenase, and glutathione-S-transferase were found with a significant positive expression under a combined Al and S. luteus treatment, further supported by the up-regulation of their corresponding genes. This study provides a theoretical foundation for exploiting the regulatory role of ectomycorrhizal inoculation and associated genetic changes in resistance against Al stress in masson pine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Proteomics)

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11 pages, 2590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Schlemm’s Canal Expansion: Biomechanics and MIGS Implications

by Chen Xin, Shaozhen Song, Ningli Wang, Ruikang Wang and Murray Johnstone

Life 2021, 11(2), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020176 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2141

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the change of biomechanical properties of the trabecular meshwork (TM) and configuration of collector channels (CC) by high-resolution optical coherence tomography (HR-OCT) induced by Schlemm’s canal (SC) dilation. Methods: The anterior segments of two human eyes were divided into four [...] Read more.

Objective: To evaluate the change of biomechanical properties of the trabecular meshwork (TM) and configuration of collector channels (CC) by high-resolution optical coherence tomography (HR-OCT) induced by Schlemm’s canal (SC) dilation. Methods: The anterior segments of two human eyes were divided into four quadrants. One end of a specially designed cannula was placed in SC and the other end connected to a perfusion reservoir. HR-OCT provided three-dimensional (3D) volumetric and two-dimensional (2D) cross-sectional imaging permitting assessment of the biomechanical properties of the TM. A large fluid bolus was introduced into SC. Same-sample, pre and post deformation and disruption of SC and CC lumen areas were analyzed. Results: Morphologic 3D reconstructions documented pressure-dependent changes in lumen dimension of SC, CC, and circumferential intrascleral channels. 2D imaging established volumetric stress-strain curves (elastance curves) of the TM in quadrants. The curves of TM elastance shift to the right with an increase in pressure-dependent steady-state SC area. After a bolus disruption, the SC area increased, while the CC area decreased. Conclusion: Our experimental setup permits the study of the biomechanical properties of TM by examining elastance, which differs segmentally and is altered by mechanical expansion of SC by a fluid bolus. The study may shed light on mechanisms of intraocular pressure control of some glaucoma surgery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanical Imaging in Ophthalmology)

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9 pages, 263 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Metabolic Phenotypes and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Cross-Sectional Assessment of Patients from a Large Federally Qualified Health Center

by Kathleen E. Adair, Nicholas von Waaden, Matthew Rafalski, Burritt W. Hess, Sally P. Weaver and Rodney G. Bowden

Life 2021, 11(2), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020175 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2430

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine if renal function varies by metabolic phenotype. A total of 9599 patients from a large Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) were included in the analysis. Metabolic health was classified as the absence of metabolic abnormalities [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to determine if renal function varies by metabolic phenotype. A total of 9599 patients from a large Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) were included in the analysis. Metabolic health was classified as the absence of metabolic abnormalities defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria, excluding waist circumference. Obesity was defined as body mass index >30 kg/m² and renal health as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >60 mL/min/1.73 m². Linear and logistic regressions were used to analyze the data. The metabolically healthy overweight (MHO) phenotype had the highest eGFR (104.86 ± 28.76 mL/min/1.72 m²) and lowest unadjusted odds of chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR = 0.46, 95%CI = 0.168, 1.267, p = 0.133), while the metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUN) phenotype demonstrated the lowest eGFR (91.34 ± 33.28 mL/min/1.72 m²) and the highest unadjusted odds of CKD (OR = 3.63, p < 0.0001). After controlling for age, sex, and smoking status, the metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) (OR = 1.80, 95%CI = 1.08, 3.00, p = 0.024) was the only phenotype with significantly higher odds of CKD as compared to the reference. We demonstrate that the metabolically unhealthy phenotypes have the highest odds of CKD compared to metabolically healthy individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Research Updates in Chronic Kidney Disease)

12 pages, 482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in the IL17A Gene Is Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease Positive to Anti-Jo1 Antisynthetase Autoantibodies

by Marco Antonio Ponce-Gallegos, Montserrat I. González-Pérez, Mayra Mejía, Karol J. Nava-Quiroz, Gloria Pérez-Rubio, Ivette Buendía-Roldán, Espiridión Ramos-Martínez, Jorge Rojas-Serrano and Ramcés Falfán-Valencia

Life 2021, 11(2), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020174 - 23 Feb 2021

Viewed by 2664

Abstract

Antisynthetase syndrome (ASSD) is a rare multisystemic connective tissue disease affecting the skin, joints, muscles, and lungs, characterized by anti-aminoacyl transfer-RNA-synthetases (anti-tRNA) autoantibodies production, being anti-Jo1 the most frequent. We included one-hundred twenty-one ASSD patients and 340 healthy subjects (HS), and also, we [...] Read more.

Antisynthetase syndrome (ASSD) is a rare multisystemic connective tissue disease affecting the skin, joints, muscles, and lungs, characterized by anti-aminoacyl transfer-RNA-synthetases (anti-tRNA) autoantibodies production, being anti-Jo1 the most frequent. We included one-hundred twenty-one ASSD patients and 340 healthy subjects (HS), and also, we divided the case group into anti-Jo1 and non-anti-Jo1. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IL17A gene were evaluated. Anti-Jo1 was the most common anti-tRNA antibody in our cohort, and the most frequent tomographic pattern was non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP). Anti-Jo1 ASSD patients had higher levels of creatine phosphokinase than the non-anti-Jo1 group. Significant differences in genotype frequencies with rs8193036/CC between anti-Jo1 vs. non-anti-Jo1 ASSD patients (p < 0.001), maintaining the association after Bonferroni correction (p = 0.002). Additionally, in the anti-Jo1 group vs. HS comparison, we found a statistically significant difference with the same SNP (p = 0.018, OR = 2.91, 95% CI = 1.15–7.35), maintaining the association after Bonferroni correction (p = 0.036). The rs8193036/CC genotype in IL17A is associated with ASSD patients with anti-Jo1. Also, anti-Jo1 and non-anti-Jo1 patients display differences in genotype frequencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into the Immunopathogenesis and Therapeutics of Rheumatic Diseases)

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12 pages, 493 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sarcopenia and Cognitive Function: Role of Myokines in Muscle Brain Cross-Talk

by Lucia Scisciola, Rosaria Anna Fontanella, Surina, Vittoria Cataldo, Giuseppe Paolisso and Michelangela Barbieri

Life 2021, 11(2), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020173 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 58 | Viewed by 9944

Abstract

Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome characterized by the progressive degeneration of muscle mass and function, and it is associated with severe complications, which are falls, functional decline, frailty, and mortality. Sarcopenia is associated with cognitive impairment, defined as a decline in one or [...] Read more.

Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome characterized by the progressive degeneration of muscle mass and function, and it is associated with severe complications, which are falls, functional decline, frailty, and mortality. Sarcopenia is associated with cognitive impairment, defined as a decline in one or more cognitive domains as language, memory, reasoning, social cognition, planning, making decisions, and solving problems. Although the exact mechanism relating to sarcopenia and cognitive function has not yet been defined, several studies have shown that skeletal muscle produces and secrete molecules, called myokines, that regulate brain functions, including mood, learning, locomotor activity, and neuronal injury protection, showing the existence of muscle-brain cross-talk. Moreover, studies conducted on physical exercise supported the existence of muscle-brain cross-talk, showing how physical activity, changing myokines' circulating levels, exerts beneficial effects on the brain. The review mainly focuses on describing the role of myokines on brain function and their involvement in cognitive impairment in sarcopenia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sarcopenia and Liver Disease: Current and Future Perspectives)

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15 pages, 2585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrative Analysis Identified Key Schizophrenia Risk Factors from an Abnormal Behavior Mouse Gene Set

by Miao Chen, Weidi Wang, Weicheng Song, Wei Qian and Guan Ning Lin

Life 2021, 11(2), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020172 - 23 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2319

Abstract

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe chronic psychiatric illness with heterogeneous symptoms. However, the pathogenesis of SCZ is unclear, and the number of well-defined SCZ risk factors is limited. We hypothesized that an abnormal behavior (AB) gene set verified by mouse model experiments can [...] Read more.

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe chronic psychiatric illness with heterogeneous symptoms. However, the pathogenesis of SCZ is unclear, and the number of well-defined SCZ risk factors is limited. We hypothesized that an abnormal behavior (AB) gene set verified by mouse model experiments can be used to better understand SCZ risks. In this work, we carried out an integrative bioinformatics analysis to study two types of risk genes that are either differentially expressed (DEGs) in the case-control study data or carry reported SCZ genetic variants (MUTs). Next, we used RNA-Seq expression data from the hippocampus (HIPPO) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) to define the key genes affected by different types (DEGs and MUTs) in different brain regions (DLPFC and HIPPO): DLPFC-kDEG, DLPFC-kMUT, HIPPO-kDEG, and HIPPO-kMUT. The four hub genes (SHANK1, SHANK2, DLG4, and NLGN3) of the biological functionally enriched terms were strongly linked to SCZ via gene co-expression network analysis. Then, we observed that specific spatial expressions of DLPFC-kMUT and HIPPO-kMUT were convergent in the early stages and divergent in the later stages of development. In addition, all four types of key genes showed significantly larger average protein–protein interaction degrees than the background. Comparing the different cell types, the expression of four types of key genes showed specificity in different dimensions. Together, our results offer new insights into potential risk factors and help us understand the complexity and regional heterogeneity of SCZ. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Omics for the Understanding of Brain Diseases)

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15 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Management of Infants with Brief Resolved Unexplained Events (BRUE) and Apparent Life-Threatening Events (ALTE): A RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Approach

by Giovanni Prezioso, Serafina Perrone, Giacomo Biasucci, Giovanna Pisi, Valentina Fainardi, Caterina Strisciuglio, Francesco Nonnis Marzano, Sabrina Moretti, Francesco Pisani, Bertrand Tchana, Alberto Argentiero, Cosimo Neglia, Carlo Caffarelli, Patrizia Bertolini, Maria Teresa Bersini, Andrea Canali, Emanuele Voccia, Antonella Squarcia, Tullio Ghi, Carla Verrotti, Tiziana Frusca, Rossana Cecchi, Giovanna Giordano, Filomena Colasanti, Ilenia Roccia, Paola Palanza and Susanna Esposito Show full author list Hide full author list

Life 2021, 11(2), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020171 - 22 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3772

Abstract

Unexpected events of breath, tone, and skin color change in infants are a cause of considerable distress to the caregiver and there is still debate on their appropriate management. The aim of this study is to survey the trend in prevention, decision-making, and [...] Read more.

Unexpected events of breath, tone, and skin color change in infants are a cause of considerable distress to the caregiver and there is still debate on their appropriate management. The aim of this study is to survey the trend in prevention, decision-making, and management of brief resolved unexplained events (BRUE)/apparent life-threatening events (ALTE) and to develop a shared protocol among hospitals and primary care pediatricians regarding hospital admission criteria, work-up and post-discharge monitoring of patients with BRUE/ALTE. For the study purpose, a panel of 54 experts was selected to achieve consensus using the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method. Twelve scenarios were developed: one addressed to primary prevention of ALTE and BRUE, and 11 focused on hospital management of BRUE and ALTE. For each scenario, participants were asked to rank each option from ‘1’ (extremely inappropriate) to ‘9’ (extremely appropriate). Results derived from panel meeting and discussion showed several points of agreement but also disagreement with different opinion emerged and the need of focused education on some areas. However, by combining previous recommendations with expert opinion, the application of the RAND/UCLA appropriateness permitted us to drive pediatricians to reasoned and informed decisions in term of evaluation, treatment and follow-up of infants with BRUE/ALTE, reducing inappropriate exams and hospitalisation and highlighting priorities for educational interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Function, Dysfunction and Post-Damage Reorganization, Two Decades of Research)

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11 pages, 1166 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Radiomics Analysis for ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTAGA-(l-y)fk(Sub-KuE) Targeted Radioligand Therapy Dosimetry in Metastatic Prostate Cancer—A Model Based on Clinical Example

by Eve Kelk, Priit Ruuge, Kristi Rohtla, Anne Poksi and Kalevi Kairemo

Life 2021, 11(2), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020170 - 22 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2392

Abstract

¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTAGA-(l-y)fk(Sub-KuE) a.k.a. ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA I&T is currently used for radioligand therapy (RLT) of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) in several centers in Europe. Background: Dosimetry is mandatory according to EU guidelines, although routine methods for dosimetry, i.e., absorbed radiation dose calculations for [...] Read more.

¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTAGA-(l-y)fk(Sub-KuE) a.k.a. ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA I&T is currently used for radioligand therapy (RLT) of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) in several centers in Europe. Background: Dosimetry is mandatory according to EU guidelines, although routine methods for dosimetry, i.e., absorbed radiation dose calculations for radiopharmaceuticals, are missing. Methods: We created a model of dosimetric analysis utilizing voxel-based dosimetry and intra-lesion radiomics to assess their practicality in routine dosimetry. Results: As an example for the model, our patient with mCRPC had excellent therapy response; quantitatively more than 97% of the metastatic tumor burden in local and distant lymph nodes and skeleton was destroyed by four cycles of RLT. The absorbed radiation doses in metastases decreased towards later cycles of RLT. Besides the change of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) concentration and absorbed doses in the tumor, further response to RLT could be predicted from biomarker changes, such as LDH and PSA. Conclusions: Individual dosimetry is needed to understand large variations in tumor doses and mixed responses; for that purpose, routine tools should be developed. The Dosimetry Research Tool (DRT) fluently performed automated organ delineation and absorbed radiation dose calculations in normal organs, and the results in our patient were in good concordance with the published studies on ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA dosimetry. At the same time, we experienced considerable challenges in voxel-based dosimetry of tumor lesions. Measurements of ¹⁷⁷Lu-PSMA activity concentrations instead of absorbed radiation dose calculations could make routine dosimetry more flexible. The first cycle of RLT seems to have quantitatively the biggest impact on the therapy effect. Radiomics analyses could probably aid in the treatment optimization, but it should be tested in large patient populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeted Therapies in Cancer: Radionuclides, Multi-Omics and Nanomedicine)

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17 pages, 1105 KiB

Open AccessReview

HBV/HDV Co-Infection: Epidemiological and Clinical Changes, Recent Knowledge and Future Challenges

by Caterina Sagnelli, Evangelista Sagnelli, Antonio Russo, Mariantonietta Pisaturo, Laura Occhiello and Nicola Coppola

Life 2021, 11(2), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020169 - 22 Feb 2021

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4804

Abstract

Several investigations have been published on Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) infection in recent years, from which we have drawn the salient data to provide readers with useful information to improve their knowledge on the subject. HDV genotypes 5–8 have been recently imported to [...] Read more.

Several investigations have been published on Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) infection in recent years, from which we have drawn the salient data to provide readers with useful information to improve their knowledge on the subject. HDV genotypes 5–8 have been recently imported to Western countries from central Africa, whose clinical relevance deserves further investigation. Ongoing HDV replication has been identified as an independent predictor of progression to cirrhosis and HCC for patients with HDV chronic hepatitis (HDV-CH). Long-term treatments of HDV-CH with standard or pegylated interferon alfa (peg-IFN-α) have all been unsatisfactory, leading to a sustained virological response (SVR) only in 20–30% of patients treated, faced with a poor tolerability and frequent serious adverse reactions; the addition of HBV nucleo(s)tide analogues to peg-IFN- α did not improve the rate of SVR. The improved knowledge of the HDV life cycle has allowed the development of direct acting agents towards key-points of the HDV life cycle, namely bulevirtide, lonafarnib and nucleic acid polymers. Preliminary data have shown that these drugs are more effective than interferon-based therapies, but adverse reactions are also common, which however seem toned down in combination therapy with other antivirals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The New Challenges in Infectious Diseases)

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19 pages, 3744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

RNase A Domain-Swapped Dimers Produced Through Different Methods: Structure–Catalytic Properties and Antitumor Activity

by Riccardo Montioli, Rachele Campagnari, Sabrina Fasoli, Andrea Fagagnini, Andra Caloiu, Marcello Smania, Marta Menegazzi and Giovanni Gotte

Life 2021, 11(2), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020168 - 21 Feb 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1943

Abstract

Upon oligomerization, RNase A can acquire important properties, such as cytotoxicity against leukemic cells. When lyophilized from 40% acetic acid solutions, the enzyme self-associates through the so-called three-dimensional domain swapping (3D-DS) mechanism involving both N- and/or C-terminals. The same species are formed if [...] Read more.

Upon oligomerization, RNase A can acquire important properties, such as cytotoxicity against leukemic cells. When lyophilized from 40% acetic acid solutions, the enzyme self-associates through the so-called three-dimensional domain swapping (3D-DS) mechanism involving both N- and/or C-terminals. The same species are formed if the enzyme is subjected to thermal incubation in various solvents, especially in 40% ethanol. We evaluated here if significant structural modifications might occur in RNase A N- or C-swapped dimers and/or in the residual monomer(s), as a function of the oligomerization protocol applied. We detected that the monomer activity vs. ss-RNA was partly affected by both protocols, although the protein does not suffer spectroscopic alterations. Instead, the two N-swapped dimers showed differences in the fluorescence emission spectra but almost identical enzymatic activities, while the C-swapped dimers displayed slightly different activities vs. both ss- or ds-RNA substrates together with not negligible fluorescence emission alterations within each other. Besides these results, we also discuss the reasons justifying the different relative enzymatic activities displayed by the N-dimers and C-dimers. Last, similarly with data previously registered in a mouse model, we found that both dimeric species significantly decrease human melanoma A375 cell viability, while only N-dimers reduce human melanoma MeWo cell growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Approaches in Molecular Enzymology)

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16 pages, 1354 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Post-Infectious Guillain–Barré Syndrome Related to SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review

by Pasquale Sansone, Luca Gregorio Giaccari, Caterina Aurilio, Francesco Coppolino, Valentina Esposito, Marco Fiore, Antonella Paladini, Maria Beatrice Passavanti, Vincenzo Pota and Maria Caterina Pace

Life 2021, 11(2), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020167 - 21 Feb 2021

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 3641

Abstract

Background. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is the most common cause of flaccid paralysis, with about 100,000 people developing the disorder every year worldwide. Recently, the incidence of GBS has increased during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) epidemics. We reviewed the literature to [...] Read more.

Background. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is the most common cause of flaccid paralysis, with about 100,000 people developing the disorder every year worldwide. Recently, the incidence of GBS has increased during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) epidemics. We reviewed the literature to give a comprehensive overview of the demographic characteristics, clinical features, diagnostic investigations, and outcome of SARS-CoV-2-related GBS patients. Methods. Embase, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Central Trials Register were systematically searched on 24 September 2020 for studies reporting on GBS secondary to COVID-19. Results. We identified 63 articles; we included 32 studies in our review. A total of 41 GBS cases with a confirmed or probable COVID-19 infection were reported: 26 of them were single case reports and 6 case series. Published studies on SARS-CoV-2-related GBS typically report a classic sensorimotor type of GBS often with a demyelinating electrophysiological subtype. Miller Fisher syndrome was reported in a quarter of the cases. In 78.1% of the cases, the response to immunomodulating therapy is favourable. The disease course is frequently severe and about one-third of the patients with SARS-CoV-2-associated GBS requires mechanical ventilation and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. Rarely the outcome is poor or even fatal (10.8% of the cases). Conclusion. Clinical presentation, course, response to treatment, and outcome are similar in SARS-CoV-2-associated GBS and GBS due to other triggers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Evolution and Epidemiology of Coronaviruses)

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10 pages, 234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Status of Nutrition in Hemodialysis Patients Survey (SNIPS): Nutrition Intake in Obese and Overweight vs. Healthy Weight Patients

by Mona Boaz, Vered Kaufman-Shriqui, Odile Azoulay and Talia Weinstein

Life 2021, 11(2), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020166 - 21 Feb 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2082

Abstract

Elevated body mass index (BMI) has been associated with improved survival and fewer hospitalizations in hemodialysis patients; however, it is not clear that dietary intake is associated with increased BMI in hemodialysis patients. The present analysis was designed to compare energy and macronutrient [...] Read more.

Elevated body mass index (BMI) has been associated with improved survival and fewer hospitalizations in hemodialysis patients; however, it is not clear that dietary intake is associated with increased BMI in hemodialysis patients. The present analysis was designed to compare energy and macronutrient intake and distribution, as well as compliance with the International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism (ISRNM) dietary guidelines, by body weight status (overweight/obese vs. normal weight) in hemodialysis patients. The status of nutrition in hemodialysis patients survey (SNIPS) cohort is a cross-sectional study including a representative sample of individuals on hemodialysis treated in hospital dialysis centers throughout Israel. Of the 375 patients eligible for the current analysis, 60.1% had BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² (overweight/obese). For each participant, the following measures were recorded: dietary intake, blood biochemistry, anthropometric and hemodynamic measures. These were compared by body weight status. Compared to their normal-weight counterparts, overweight/obese hemodialysis patients did not differ by energy and macronutrient intake, distribution of these nutrients in the diet. Regardless of body weight status, hemodialysis patients have poor compliance with ISRNM dietary guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Research Updates in Chronic Kidney Disease)

19 pages, 3356 KiB

Open AccessReview

Disturbance of Mitochondrial Dynamics and Mitochondrial Therapies in Atherosclerosis

by Alexander M. Markin, Viktoria A. Khotina, Xenia G. Zabudskaya, Anastasia I. Bogatyreva, Antonina V. Starodubova, Ekaterina Ivanova, Nikita G. Nikiforov and Alexander N. Orekhov

Life 2021, 11(2), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020165 - 20 Feb 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3650

Abstract

Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with a wide range of chronic human disorders, including atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus. Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that undergo constant turnover in living cells. Through the processes of mitochondrial fission and fusion, a functional population of mitochondria is maintained, [...] Read more.

Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with a wide range of chronic human disorders, including atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus. Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that undergo constant turnover in living cells. Through the processes of mitochondrial fission and fusion, a functional population of mitochondria is maintained, that responds to the energy needs of the cell. Damaged or excessive mitochondria are degraded by mitophagy, a specialized type of autophagy. These processes are orchestrated by a number of proteins and genes, and are tightly regulated. When one or several of these processes are affected, it can lead to the accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria, deficient energy production, increased oxidative stress and cell death—features that are described in many human disorders. While severe mitochondrial dysfunction is known to cause specific and mitochondrial disorders in humans, progressing damage of the mitochondria is also observed in a wide range of other chronic diseases, including cancer and atherosclerosis, and appears to play an important role in disease development. Therefore, correction of mitochondrial dynamics can help in developing new therapies for the treatment of these conditions. In this review, we summarize the recent knowledge on the processes of mitochondrial turnover and the proteins and genes involved in it. We provide a list of known mutations that affect mitochondrial function, and discuss the emerging therapeutic approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)

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11 pages, 3200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Expression Pattern of Ki-67, pRB, MMP-9 and Bax in Human Secondary Palate Development

by Tanja Šimić Bilandžija, Katarina Vukojević, Anka Ćorić, Ivna Vuković Kekez, Ivana Medvedec Mikić, Lidija Lasić Arapović, Natalija Filipović, Jasminka Anđelić, Mirna Saraga-Babić and Danijela Kalibović Govorko

Life 2021, 11(2), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020164 - 20 Feb 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2038

Abstract

We analyzed the immunohistochemical expression of Ki-67, pRb, Bax, and MMP-9 during the human secondary palate formation (7th to 12th developmental weeks (DWs). The most significant proliferation was observed in the seventh DW with 32% of Ki-67-positive cells in the epithelium, while loose [...] Read more.

We analyzed the immunohistochemical expression of Ki-67, pRb, Bax, and MMP-9 during the human secondary palate formation (7th to 12th developmental weeks (DWs). The most significant proliferation was observed in the seventh DW with 32% of Ki-67-positive cells in the epithelium, while loose ectomesenchyme condensations (lec) and loose non-condensing ectomesenchyme (lnc) had only 18 and 11%, respectively (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.001), and diminished afterwards. Contrarily, pRb-positive cells were mostly located in the lnc (67%), with significant difference in comparison to epithelium and lec in all investigated periods (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.001). Ki-67- and pRb-positive cells co-expressed occasionally in all investigated periods. MMP-9 displayed a strong expression pattern with the highest number of positive cells during the seventh DW in the epithelium, with significant difference in comparison to lec and lnc (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.0001). The ninth DW is particularly important for the Bax expression, especially in the epithelium (84%), in comparison to lec (58%) and lnc (47%) (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.001). The co-expression of Bax and MMP-9 was seen only in the epithelium during seventh and ninth DWs. Our study indicates the parallel persistence of proliferation (Ki-67, pRb) and remodeling (MMP-9) that enables growth and apoptotic activity (Bax) that enable the removal of the epithelial cells at the fusion point during secondary palate formation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2020: A 10 Years Journey—Advances in Life Sciences)

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14 pages, 3785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome Analysis of the Anti-TGFβ Effect of Schisandra chinensis Fruit Extract and Schisandrin B in A7r5 Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

by Sanghoon Lee, Jung Nyeo Chun, Hae-Jeung Lee, Hyun Ho Park, Insuk So, Ju-Hong Jeon and Eun-Jung Park

Life 2021, 11(2), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020163 - 20 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2360

Abstract

Schisandra chinensis fruit extract (SCE) has been used as a traditional medicine for treating vascular diseases. However, little is known about how SCE and schisandrin B (SchB) affect transcriptional output-a crucial factor for shaping the fibrotic responses of the transforming growth factor β [...] Read more.

Schisandra chinensis fruit extract (SCE) has been used as a traditional medicine for treating vascular diseases. However, little is known about how SCE and schisandrin B (SchB) affect transcriptional output-a crucial factor for shaping the fibrotic responses of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling pathways in in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). In this study, to assess the pharmacological effect of SCE and SchB on TGFβ-induced transcriptional output, we performed DNA microarray experiments in A7r5 VSMCs. We found that TGFβ induced distinctive changes in the gene expression profile and that these changes were considerably reversed by SCE and SchB. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) with Hallmark signature suggested that SCE or SchB inhibits a range of fibrosis-associated biological processes, including inflammation, cell proliferation and migration. With our VSMC-specific transcriptional interactome network, master regulator analysis identified crucial transcription factors that regulate the expression of SCE- and SchB-effective genes (i.e., TGFβ-reactive genes whose expression are reversed by SCE and SchB). Our results provide novel perspective and insight into understanding the pharmacological action of SCE and SchB at the transcriptome level and will support further investigations to develop multitargeted strategies for the treatment of vascular fibrosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell (VSMC) Differentiation)

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9 pages, 1575 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of 7-Methylsulfinylheptyl Isothiocyanate on the Inhibition of Melanogenesis in B16-F1 Cells

by A-Ju Kim, Jung Eun Park, Yeong Hee Cho, Do Sung Lim and Jung Sup Lee

Life 2021, 11(2), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020162 - 20 Feb 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2321

Abstract

Skin aging, characterized by hyperpigmentation, inflammation, wrinkles, and skin cancer, is influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors with synergistic effects. Autophagy maintains the homeostatic balance between the degradation, synthesis, and recycling of cellular proteins and organelles, and plays important roles in several cellular [...] Read more.

Skin aging, characterized by hyperpigmentation, inflammation, wrinkles, and skin cancer, is influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors with synergistic effects. Autophagy maintains the homeostatic balance between the degradation, synthesis, and recycling of cellular proteins and organelles, and plays important roles in several cellular and biological processes, including aging. The compound 7-methylsulfinylheptyl isothiocyanate (7-MSI) is a sulfur-containing phytochemical produced by various plants, particularly cruciferous vegetables, with reported anti-inflammatory properties and a role in pathogen defense; however, its effects on skin whitening have not been studied in detail. The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of 7-MSI on skin whitening and autophagy in cultured murine melanoma (B16-F1) cells. Western blotting was used to evaluate the impact of 7-MSI on melanogenesis-, tyrosinase-, and autophagy-associated proteins. The levels of the melanogenesis-associated protein’s microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-1 were decreased by treatment with 7-MSI under melanogenesis induction. Melanin synthesis also decreased by approximately 63% after treatment with 7-MSI for 73 h, compared with that non-treated controls. In addition, autophagosome formation and the expression levels of the autophagy-related proteins mTOR, p-mTOR, Beclin-1, Atg12, and LC3 were higher in 7-MSI-treated B16-F1 cells than in non-treated cells. These results indicate that 7-MSI can inhibit melanin synthesis in B16-F1 cells by suppressing melanogenesis and autophagy activation and thus can potentially be used as a novel multifunctional cosmetic agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering)

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19 pages, 6963 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revisiting the Instrumented Romberg Test: Can Today’s Technology Offer a Risk-of-Fall Screening Device for Senior Citizens? An Experience-Based Approach

by Michele Gallamini, Giorgio Piastra, Simonetta Lucarini, Debora Porzio, Matteo Ronchi, Alessio Pirino, Fabio Scoppa, Stefano Masiero and Lucrezia Tognolo

Life 2021, 11(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020161 - 20 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3006

Abstract

Risk of fall (ROF) is a worldwide major concern for its prevalence and consequent dramatic outcomes in the elderly population. The growing age-related risk appears to be associated with increasing motor, sensory, and cognitive problems in the elderly population. There is a consensus [...] Read more.

Risk of fall (ROF) is a worldwide major concern for its prevalence and consequent dramatic outcomes in the elderly population. The growing age-related risk appears to be associated with increasing motor, sensory, and cognitive problems in the elderly population. There is a consensus on the need to screen for these balance dysfunctions, but the available methods are largely based on subjectively assessed performances. The instrumented Romberg test using a force plate represents a validated assessment process for the evaluation of balance performances. The purpose of this study is to propose an innovative instrumental method to identify balance deficits, assess their severity, and give an automated indication of the most likely etiology. The proposed new method was applied to the instrumented Romberg test, using force plate data recorded in a cohort of 551 females aged >65 participating in adapted physical activity courses. The method allowed us to identify 145 dysfunctional subjects and to determine the likely origin of their deficit: 21 central, 5 vestibular, 9 visual, 59 proprioceptive (musculoskeletal etiology), and 51 functional. Based on the preliminary findings of the study, this test could be an efficient and cost-effective mass screening tool for identifying subjects at risk of fall, since the procedure proves to be rapid, non-invasive, and apparently devoid of any contraindications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)

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18 pages, 9133 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanisms of Cisplatin in Combination with Repurposed Drugs against Human Endometrial Carcinoma Cells

by Chi-Kang Lin, Shu-Ting Liu, Zih-Syuan Wu, Yu-Chi Wang and Shih-Ming Huang

Life 2021, 11(2), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020160 - 19 Feb 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2546

Abstract

Although endometrial carcinoma is one of the most common gynecological malignancies worldwide, its precise etiology remains unknown. Moreover, no novel adjuvant and/or targeted therapies are currently being developed to achieve greater efficacy for endometrial cancer patients who develop chemotherapeutic drug resistance. In this [...] Read more.

Although endometrial carcinoma is one of the most common gynecological malignancies worldwide, its precise etiology remains unknown. Moreover, no novel adjuvant and/or targeted therapies are currently being developed to achieve greater efficacy for endometrial cancer patients who develop chemotherapeutic drug resistance. In this study, we used three human endometrial cancer cell lines, RL95-2, HEC-1-A, and KLE, to investigate the responsiveness of cisplatin alone and in combination with potential repurposed drugs. We first found that RL95-2 cells were more sensitive to cisplatin than HEC-1-A or KLE cells. The cytotoxicity of cisplatin in RL95-2 cells may reflect its ability to perturb the cell cycle, reactive oxygen species production and autophagy as well as to induce senescence and DNA damage. Similar effects, although not DNA damage, were also observed in HEC-1-A and KLE cells. In addition, downregulation of p53 and/or cyclin D1 may also impact the responsiveness of HEC-1-A and KLE cells to cisplatin. We also observed that resveratrol, trichostatin A (TSA), caffeine, or digoxin increased the apoptotic process of cisplatin toward RL95-2 cells, while amiodarone or TSA increased its apoptotic process toward HEC-1-A cells. The combination index supported the assertion that the combination of cisplatin with caffeine, amiodarone, resveratrol, metformin, digoxin, or TSA increases the cytotoxicity of cisplatin in HEC-1-A cells. These findings suggest potential strategies for enhancing the efficacy of cisplatin to overcome drug resistance in endometrial carcinoma patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Science)

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2 pages, 183 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Exercise Biomechanics and Physiology

by Jose I. Priego-Quesada

Life 2021, 11(2), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020159 - 19 Feb 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2250

Abstract

Biomechanics was defined by Hatze in 1974 as the study of the movement of living things using the science of mechanics [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exercise Biomechanics and Physiology)

28 pages, 9048 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Novel ⁸⁹Zr-labeled DDS Device Utilizing Human IgG Variant (scFv): “Lactosome” Nanoparticle-Based Theranostics for PET Imaging and Targeted Therapy

by Melissa Siaw Han Lim, Takashi Ohtsuki, Fumiaki Takenaka, Kazuko Kobayashi, Masaru Akehi, Hirotaka Uji, Hirotsugu Kobuchi, Takanori Sasaki, Eiichi Ozeki and Eiji Matsuura

Life 2021, 11(2), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020158 - 18 Feb 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3988

Abstract

“Theranostics,” a new concept of medical advances featuring a fusion of therapeutic and diagnostic systems, provides promising prospects in personalized medicine, especially cancer. The theranostics system comprises a novel ⁸⁹Zr-labeled drug delivery system (DDS), derived from the novel biodegradable polymeric micelle, “Lactosome” [...] Read more.

“Theranostics,” a new concept of medical advances featuring a fusion of therapeutic and diagnostic systems, provides promising prospects in personalized medicine, especially cancer. The theranostics system comprises a novel ⁸⁹Zr-labeled drug delivery system (DDS), derived from the novel biodegradable polymeric micelle, “Lactosome” nanoparticles conjugated with specific shortened IgG variant, and aims to successfully deliver therapeutically effective molecules, such as the apoptosis-inducing small interfering RNA (siRNA) intracellularly while offering simultaneous tumor visualization via PET imaging. A 27 kDa-human single chain variable fragment (scFv) of IgG to establish clinically applicable PET imaging and theranostics in cancer medicine was fabricated to target mesothelin (MSLN), a 40 kDa-differentiation-related cell surface glycoprotein antigen, which is frequently and highly expressed by malignant tumors. This system coupled with the cell penetrating peptide (CPP)-modified and photosensitizer (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20-tetrakis (4-aminophenyl) porphyrin (TPP))-loaded Lactosome particles for photochemical internalized (PCI) driven intracellular siRNA delivery and the combination of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) photodynamic therapy (PDT) offers a promising nano-theranostic-based cancer therapy via its targeted apoptosis-inducing feature. This review focuses on the combined advances in nanotechnology and material sciences utilizing the “⁸⁹Zr-labeled CPP and TPP-loaded Lactosome particles” and future directions based on important milestones and recent developments in this platform. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theranostics: Current and Future Perspectives)

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10 pages, 1953 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Evaluation of Protective Efficacy of Inactivated Senecavirus A on Pigs

by Yuwan Li, Yangyi Zhang, Yingxin Liao, Yawei Sun, Yang Ruan, Chenchen Liu, Mengru Zhang, Fangfang Li, Xiaowen Li, Shuangqi Fan, Lin Yi, Hongxing Ding, Mingqiu Zhao, Jindai Fan and Jinding Chen

Life 2021, 11(2), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020157 - 18 Feb 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2077

Abstract

Senecavirus A (SVA), formerly known as Seneca Valley virus (SVV), causes vesicular symptoms in adult pigs and acute death of neonatal piglets. This pathogen has emerged in major swine producing countries around the world and caused significant economic losses to the pig industry. [...] Read more.

Senecavirus A (SVA), formerly known as Seneca Valley virus (SVV), causes vesicular symptoms in adult pigs and acute death of neonatal piglets. This pathogen has emerged in major swine producing countries around the world and caused significant economic losses to the pig industry. Thus, it is necessary to develop strategies to prevent and control SVA infection. Herein, an SVA strain (named GD-ZYY02-2018) was isolated from a pig herd with vesicular symptoms in Guangdong province of China in 2018. The present study aimed to carry out the phylogenetic analysis of the GD-ZYY02-2018 strain, determine its pathogenicity in finishing pigs, and assess the protective efficacy of the inactivated GD-ZYY02-2018 strain against virus challenge. The results of phylogenetic analysis showed that the SVA GD-ZYY02-2018 strain belonged to the USA-like strains and had a close genetic relationship with recent Chinese SVA strains. Animal challenge experiment showed that 100-day-old pigs inoculated intranasally with SVA GD-ZYY02-2018 strain developed vesicular lesion, low fever, viremia, and virus shedding in feces. The immunization challenge experiment showed that pigs vaccinated with inactivated GD-ZYY02-2018 strain could produce a high titer of anti-SVA neutralizing antibody and no vesicular lesion, fever, viremia, and virus shedding in feces was observed in vaccinated pigs after challenge with GD-ZYY02-2018 strain, indicating that inactivated GD-ZYY02-2018 could protect finishing pigs against the challenge of homologous virus. In conclusion, preliminary results indicated that inactivated GD-ZYY02-2018 could be used as a candidate vaccine for in-depth research and might be conducive to the prevention and control of SVA infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Science)

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10 pages, 1427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Titanium and Platinum–Fluoroplastic Stapes Prostheses Visualization on Cone Beam Computed Tomography and High-Resolution Computed Tomography

by Valerie Dahm, Ursula Schwarz–Nemec, Alice B. Auinger, Michael A. Arnoldner, Alexandra Kaider, Dominik Riss, Christian Czerny and Christoph Arnoldner

Life 2021, 11(2), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020156 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2720

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether stapes prostheses can be visualized with less metal artifacts and therefore more accurately on cone beam computed tomography in comparison to computed tomography imaging. Recent studies have shown that cone beam computed tomography [...] Read more.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether stapes prostheses can be visualized with less metal artifacts and therefore more accurately on cone beam computed tomography in comparison to computed tomography imaging. Recent studies have shown that cone beam computed tomography has advantages when imaging metal artifacts. Patients with hearing loss or vertigo, who have undergone stapedotomy, often present a challenge for otologic surgeons. Imaging studies can deliver crucial additional information. Methods: A retrospective analysis of imaging studies and clinical data in a tertiary care center were carried out. Forty-one patients with forty-five implanted ears were evaluated in the study. All included patients had been implanted with a platinum–fluoroplastic (n = 19) or titanium (n = 26) piston and subsequently had undergone imaging months or years after surgery for various reasons. Patients underwent computed tomography or cone beam computed tomography of the temporal bone depending on availability. Piston visualization, prosthesis length, vestibular intrusion and audiologic results were compared between the groups. Piston position on imaging studies were compared to intraoperative findings. Results: Functional length measurements of all prostheses were carried out with a mean error of −0.17 mm (±0.20). Platinum–fluoroplastic protheses were significantly underestimated in length compared to titanium prostheses. To analyze the material-dependent difference in the measurement errors of the imaging techniques the interaction was tested in an ANOVA model and showed no statistically significant result (p = 0.24). The blinded neuroradiologist viewed two implants, both platinum–fluoroplastic pistons, as located outside of the vestibule due to an underestimation of the prothesis length and the missing radiodensity of the lower end of the prosthesis. Conclusion: Surgeons and radiologists should be aware of the different types and radiologic features of stapes prostheses and the missing radiodensity of some protheses parts. Cone beam computed tomography is an imaging alternative with a potential advantage of reduced radiation in patients after stapes surgery suffering from vertigo or hearing loss to evaluate piston position. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Treatment of ENT Diseases: Otological and Sinus Disorders)

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21 pages, 2514 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Therapeutic Potentials of Syzygium fruticosum Fruit (Seed) Reflected into an Array of Pharmacological Assays and Prospective Receptors-Mediated Pathways

by Jannatul Nasma Rupa Moni, Md. Adnan, Abu Montakim Tareq, Md. Imtiazul Kabir, A.S.M. Ali Reza, Mst. Samima Nasrin, Kamrul Hasan Chowdhury, Syed Al Jawad Sayem, Md Atiar Rahman, AHM Khurshid Alam, Seema Binte Alam, Mahfuz Ahmed Sakib, Ki Kwang Oh, Dong Ha Cho and Raffaele Capasso

Life 2021, 11(2), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020155 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 3655

Abstract

Syzygium fruticosum (SF), a valuable Bangladeshi fruit, is considered an alternative therapeutic agent. Mainly, seeds are used as nutritional phytotherapy to ease physical and mental status by preventing chronic diseases. Here, we scrutinized the S. fruticosum seed’s fundamental importance in traditional medicine by [...] Read more.

Syzygium fruticosum (SF), a valuable Bangladeshi fruit, is considered an alternative therapeutic agent. Mainly, seeds are used as nutritional phytotherapy to ease physical and mental status by preventing chronic diseases. Here, we scrutinized the S. fruticosum seed’s fundamental importance in traditional medicine by following an integrated approach combining in vivo, in vitro, and in silico studies. The SF was fractionated with different solvents, and the ethyl acetate fraction of SF (EaF-SF) was further studied. Mice treated with EaF-SF (200 and 400 mg/kg) manifested anxiolysis evidenced by higher exploration in elevated plus maze and hole board tests. Similarly, a dose-dependent drop of immobility time in a forced swimming test ensured significant anti-depressant activity. Moreover, higher dose treatment exposed reduced exploratory behaviour resembling decreased movement and prolonged sleeping latency with a quick onset of sleep during the open field and thiopental-induced sleeping tests, respectively. In parallel, EaF-SF significantly (p < 0.001) and dose-dependently suppressed acetic acid and formalin-induced pain in mice. Also, a noteworthy anti-inflammatory activity and a substantial (p < 0.01) clot lysis activity (thrombolytic) was observed. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis resulted in 49 bioactive compounds. Among them, 12 bioactive compounds with Lipinski’s rule and safety confirmation showed strong binding affinity (molecular docking) against the receptors of each model used. To conclude, the S. fruticosum seed is a prospective source of health-promoting effects that can be an excellent candidate for preventing degenerative diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Traditional Medicinal Plants and their Bioactive Products)

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22 pages, 1651 KiB

Open AccessReview

Origin of Species before Origin of Life: The Role of Speciation in Chemical Evolution

by Tony Z. Jia, Melina Caudan and Irena Mamajanov

Life 2021, 11(2), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020154 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 7277

Abstract

Speciation, an evolutionary process by which new species form, is ultimately responsible for the incredible biodiversity that we observe on Earth every day. Such biodiversity is one of the critical features which contributes to the survivability of biospheres and modern life. While speciation [...] Read more.

Speciation, an evolutionary process by which new species form, is ultimately responsible for the incredible biodiversity that we observe on Earth every day. Such biodiversity is one of the critical features which contributes to the survivability of biospheres and modern life. While speciation and biodiversity have been amply studied in organismic evolution and modern life, it has not yet been applied to a great extent to understanding the evolutionary dynamics of primitive life. In particular, one unanswered question is at what point in the history of life did speciation as a phenomenon emerge in the first place. Here, we discuss the mechanisms by which speciation could have occurred before the origins of life in the context of chemical evolution. Specifically, we discuss that primitive compartments formed before the emergence of the last universal common ancestor (LUCA) could have provided a mechanism by which primitive chemical systems underwent speciation. In particular, we introduce a variety of primitive compartment structures, and associated functions, that may have plausibly been present on early Earth, followed by examples of both discriminate and indiscriminate speciation affected by primitive modes of compartmentalization. Finally, we discuss modern technologies, in particular, droplet microfluidics, that can be applied to studying speciation phenomena in the laboratory over short timescales. We hope that this discussion highlights the current areas of need in further studies on primitive speciation phenomena while simultaneously proposing directions as important areas of study to the origins of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Messy Chemistry to the Origin of Life)

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26 pages, 750 KiB

Open AccessReview

Evidence of the Cellular Senescence Stress Response in Mitotically Active Brain Cells—Implications for Cancer and Neurodegeneration

by Gregory J. Gillispie, Eric Sah, Sudarshan Krishnamurthy, Mohamed Y. Ahmidouch, Bin Zhang and Miranda E. Orr

Life 2021, 11(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020153 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5305

Abstract

Cellular stress responses influence cell fate decisions. Apoptosis and proliferation represent opposing reactions to cellular stress or damage and may influence distinct health outcomes. Clinical and epidemiological studies consistently report inverse comorbidities between age-associated neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. This review discusses how one [...] Read more.

Cellular stress responses influence cell fate decisions. Apoptosis and proliferation represent opposing reactions to cellular stress or damage and may influence distinct health outcomes. Clinical and epidemiological studies consistently report inverse comorbidities between age-associated neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. This review discusses how one particular stress response, cellular senescence, may contribute to this inverse correlation. In mitotically competent cells, senescence is favorable over uncontrolled proliferation, i.e., cancer. However, senescent cells notoriously secrete deleterious molecules that drive disease, dysfunction and degeneration in surrounding tissue. In recent years, senescent cells have emerged as unexpected mediators of neurodegenerative diseases. The present review uses pre-defined criteria to evaluate evidence of cellular senescence in mitotically competent brain cells, highlights the discovery of novel molecular regulators and discusses how this single cell fate decision impacts cancer and degeneration in the brain. We also underscore methodological considerations required to appropriately evaluate the cellular senescence stress response in the brain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellular Senescence in Health, Disease and Aging: Blessing or Curse?)

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18 pages, 2243 KiB

Open AccessReview

Housekeeping in the Hydrosphere: Microbial Cooking, Cleaning, and Control under Stress

by Bopaiah Biddanda, Deborah Dila, Anthony Weinke, Jasmine Mancuso, Manuel Villar-Argaiz, Juan Manuel Medina-Sánchez, Juan Manuel González-Olalla and Presentación Carrillo

Life 2021, 11(2), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020152 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6034

Abstract

Who’s cooking, who’s cleaning, and who’s got the remote control within the waters blanketing Earth? Anatomically tiny, numerically dominant microbes are the crucial “homemakers” of the watery household. Phytoplankton’s culinary abilities enable them to create food by absorbing sunlight to fix carbon and [...] Read more.

Who’s cooking, who’s cleaning, and who’s got the remote control within the waters blanketing Earth? Anatomically tiny, numerically dominant microbes are the crucial “homemakers” of the watery household. Phytoplankton’s culinary abilities enable them to create food by absorbing sunlight to fix carbon and release oxygen, making microbial autotrophs top-chefs in the aquatic kitchen. However, they are not the only bioengineers that balance this complex household. Ubiquitous heterotrophic microbes including prokaryotic bacteria and archaea (both “bacteria” henceforth), eukaryotic protists, and viruses, recycle organic matter and make inorganic nutrients available to primary producers. Grazing protists compete with viruses for bacterial biomass, whereas mixotrophic protists produce new organic matter as well as consume microbial biomass. When viruses press remote-control buttons, by modifying host genomes or lysing them, the outcome can reverberate throughout the microbial community and beyond. Despite recognition of the vital role of microbes in biosphere housekeeping, impacts of anthropogenic stressors and climate change on their biodiversity, evolution, and ecological function remain poorly understood. How trillions of the smallest organisms in Earth’s largest ecosystem respond will be hugely consequential. By making the study of ecology personal, the “housekeeping” perspective can provide better insights into changing ecosystem structure and function at all scales. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Diversity and Ecology)

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12 pages, 485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Genetic Characterization and Spread in Lithuania in 2014, 2016, and 2018

by Tatjana Kirtikliene, Aistė Mierauskaitė, Ilona Razmienė and Nomeda Kuisiene

Life 2021, 11(2), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020151 - 16 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2814

Abstract

Bacterial resistance to antimicrobial agents plays an important role in the treatment of bacterial infections in healthcare institutions. The spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria can occur during inter- and intra-hospital transmissions among patients and hospital personnel. For this reason, more studies must be conducted [...] Read more.

Bacterial resistance to antimicrobial agents plays an important role in the treatment of bacterial infections in healthcare institutions. The spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria can occur during inter- and intra-hospital transmissions among patients and hospital personnel. For this reason, more studies must be conducted to understand how resistance occurs in bacteria and how it moves between hospitals by comparing data from different years and looking out for any patterns that might emerge. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter spp. was studied at 14 healthcare institutions in Lithuania during 2014, 2016, and 2018 using samples from human bloodstream infections. In total, 194 isolates were collected and identified using MALDI-TOF and VITEK2 analyzers as Acinetobacter baumannii group bacteria. After that, the isolates were analyzed for the presence of different resistance genes (20 genes were analyzed) and characterized by using the Rep-PCR and MLVA (multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis) genotyping methods. The results of the study showed the relatedness of the different Acinetobacter spp. isolates and a possible circulation of resistance genes or profiles during the different years of the study. This study provides essential information, such as variability and diversity of resistance genes, genetic profiling, and clustering of isolates, to better understand the antimicrobial resistance patterns of Acinetobacter spp. These results can be used to strengthen the control of multidrug-resistant infections in healthcare institutions and to prevent potential outbreaks of this pathogen in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Antimicrobial Resistance)

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15 pages, 2759 KiB

Open AccessReview

Structures and Divergent Mechanisms in Capsid Maturation and Stabilization Following Genome Packaging of Human Cytomegalovirus and Herpesviruses

by Clotilde Muller, Sophie Alain, Thomas F. Baumert, Gaëtan Ligat and Sébastien Hantz

Life 2021, 11(2), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020150 - 16 Feb 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4028

Abstract

Herpesviruses are the causative agents of several diseases. Infections are generally mild or asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. In contrast, herpesvirus infections continue to contribute to significant morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Few drugs are available for the treatment of human herpesvirus infections, [...] Read more.

Herpesviruses are the causative agents of several diseases. Infections are generally mild or asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. In contrast, herpesvirus infections continue to contribute to significant morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Few drugs are available for the treatment of human herpesvirus infections, mainly targeting the viral DNA polymerase. Moreover, no successful therapeutic options are available for the Epstein–Barr virus or human herpesvirus 8. Most licensed drugs share the same mechanism of action of targeting the viral polymerase and thus blocking DNA polymerization. Resistances to antiviral drugs have been observed for human cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus. A new terminase inhibitor, letermovir, recently proved effective against human cytomegalovirus. However, the letermovir has no significant activity against other herpesviruses. New antivirals targeting other replication steps, such as capsid maturation or DNA packaging, and inducing fewer adverse effects are therefore needed. Targeting capsid assembly or DNA packaging provides additional options for the development of new drugs. In this review, we summarize recent findings on capsid assembly and DNA packaging. We also described what is known about the structure and function of capsid and terminase proteins to identify novels targets for the development of new therapeutic options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Capsid Protein)

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8 pages, 893 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Formation of Thiophene under Simulated Volcanic Hydrothermal Conditions on Earth—Implications for Early Life on Extraterrestrial Planets?

by Thomas Geisberger, Jessica Sobotta, Wolfgang Eisenreich and Claudia Huber

Life 2021, 11(2), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020149 - 16 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3262

Abstract

Thiophene was detected on Mars during the Curiosity mission in 2018. The compound was even suggested as a biomarker due to its possible origin from diagenesis or pyrolysis of biological material. In the laboratory, thiophene can be synthesized at 400 °C by reacting [...] Read more.

Thiophene was detected on Mars during the Curiosity mission in 2018. The compound was even suggested as a biomarker due to its possible origin from diagenesis or pyrolysis of biological material. In the laboratory, thiophene can be synthesized at 400 °C by reacting acetylene and hydrogen sulfide on alumina. We here show that thiophene and thiophene derivatives are also formed abiotically from acetylene and transition metal sulfides such as NiS, CoS and FeS under simulated volcanic, hydrothermal conditions on Early Earth. Exactly the same conditions were reported earlier to have yielded a plethora of organic molecules including fatty acids and other components of extant metabolism. It is therefore tempting to suggest that thiophenes from abiotic formation could indicate sites and conditions well-suited for the evolution of metabolism and potentially for the origin-of-life on extraterrestrial planets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Origin and Early Evolution of Life: Prebiotic Systems Chemistry Perspective)

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27 pages, 474 KiB

Open AccessReview

When a Neonate Is Born, So Is a Microbiota

by Alessandra Coscia, Flaminia Bardanzellu, Elisa Caboni, Vassilios Fanos and Diego Giampietro Peroni

Life 2021, 11(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/life11020148 - 16 Feb 2021

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5171

Abstract

In recent years, the role of human microbiota as a short- and long-term health promoter and modulator has been affirmed and progressively strengthened. In the course of one’s life, each subject is colonized by a great number of bacteria, which constitute its specific [...] Read more.

In recent years, the role of human microbiota as a short- and long-term health promoter and modulator has been affirmed and progressively strengthened. In the course of one’s life, each subject is colonized by a great number of bacteria, which constitute its specific and individual microbiota. Human bacterial colonization starts during fetal life, in opposition to the previous paradigm of the “sterile womb”. Placenta, amniotic fluid, cord blood and fetal tissues each have their own specific microbiota, influenced by maternal health and habits and having a decisive influence on pregnancy outcome and offspring outcome. The maternal microbiota, especially that colonizing the genital system, starts to influence the outcome of pregnancy already before conception, modulating fertility and the success rate of fertilization, even in the case of assisted reproduction techniques. During the perinatal period, neonatal microbiota seems influenced by delivery mode, drug administration and many other conditions. Special attention must be reserved for early neonatal nutrition, because breastfeeding allows the transmission of a specific and unique lactobiome able to modulate and positively affect the neonatal gut microbiota. Our narrative review aims to investigate the currently identified pre- and peri-natal factors influencing neonatal microbiota, before conception, during pregnancy, pre- and post-delivery, since the early microbiota influences the whole life of each subject. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pediatric Nutrition for a Healthy Life)

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