Osteonecrosis of the jaw in the era of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in oncology

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a well-known pathological condition in oncology derived from the use of bisphosphonates (BPs) and denosumab. Many molecular and immunological targets have been introduced for daily use in cancer treatment in recent years; consequently, new cases of ONJ have been reported in association with these drugs, especially if administered with BPs and denosumab. When the drugs are administered alone, ONJ is rarely seen. The objective of our study was to analyze the recent literature relative to the association of ONJ with these new drugs highlighting the pathogenic, clinical and therapeutic aspects. The close collaboration between maxillofacial surgeon, oncologist, dentist, and dental hygienist remains the most important aspect for the prevention, prompt recognition, and treatment of this pathology.

Surgical sponge associated with platelets rich plasma in skin mesh grafts and layer in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Esponja cirúrgica associada com plasma rico em plaquetas em enxertos cutâneos em malha e camada em coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

The aim of this study was to evaluate of the efficacy of PRP employment associated with surgical sponges to improve the integration of the graft in the recipient bed. It was held at the Veterinary Hospital UNESP, Campus of Jaboticabal - SP, a study of 64 rabbits, divided into eight groups with eight animals. The groups were divided in control with saline solution 0,9%, control with PRP both without the sponge, surgical sponge with PRP, surgical sponge without PRP, and were used mesh and layer grafts in the respective groups. The data were submitted to statistical analysis (paired t-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, with subsequent use of the multiple comparison tests of Dunn, analysis of variance (F) test, Tukey test, P< 0.05). Edema and exudate with 3 and 3 and 7 days (P= 0,03 e P= 0,0049); coloring on the 14th day (P= 0,0001); cosmetic appearance on the 7th and 14th day (P= 0,0026 and P= 0,0001); mononuclear cells (P= 0,01) and polymorphonuclear (P= 0,01); fibroblast proliferation (P= 0,01); collagenous (P= 0,05); hemorrhage (P-007); necrosis and re-epithelialization (P= 0,2928 and P= 0,1). We concluded that the use of Platelet Rich Plasma Gel on skin grafts associated with a sponge as a compressive dressing promote the skin graft survival without a previous granulation tissue.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia do PRP associado com esponjas cirúrgicas na integração do enxerto ao leito receptor. Realizou-se, no Hospital Veterinário da Unesp, Jaboticabal, SP, um estudo com 64 coelhos, separados em oito grupos, com oito animais. Os grupos foram: Gprpc (PRP, sem esponja cirúrgica, enxerto camada), Gprpce (PRP, esponja cirúrgica, enxerto camada), Gcc (solução fisiológica 0,9%, sem esponja cirúrgica, enxerto camada), Gcce (solução fisiológica 0,9%, esponjas cirúrgicas, enxerto camada), Gprpm (PRP, sem esponja cirúrgica, enxerto malha), Gprpme (PRP, esponja cirúrgica, enxerto malha), Gcm (solução fisiológica 0,9%, sem esponja cirúrgica, enxerto malha) e Gcce (solução fisiológica 0,9%, esponjas cirúrgicas, malha). Os dados foram analisados pelo teste t emparelhado, Kruskal-Wallis, análise de variância, e teste de Tukey (P<0,05). Edema e exsudato presente com três e sete dias (P=0,03 e P=0,0049); coloração cianótica no 14º dia (P=0,0001); aspecto cosmético bom no sétimo e no 14º dia (P=0,00026 e P=0,0001); presença de células mononucleares (P=0,01) e polimorfonucleares (P=0,01); proliferação de fibroblastos discreta (P=0,01); colagenização intensa (P=0,05); hemorragia discreta (P=0,007); ausência de diferença significativa em necrose e reepitelização (P=0,2928 e P=0,1). Conclui-se que o emprego do PRP gel em enxertos cutâneos associando esponjas cirúrgicas como curativo compressivo favorece sua integração ao leito receptor sem a presença prévia de tecido de granulação.(AU)

Polydeoxyribonucleotide Improves Peripheral Tissue Oxygenation and Accelerates Angiogenesis in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

BACKGROUND: Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is known to have anti-inflammatory and angiogenic effects and to accelerate wound healing. The aim of this study was to investigate whether PDRN could improve peripheral tissue oxygenation and angiogenesis in diabetic foot ulcers. METHODS: This was a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial. Twenty patients with a non-healing diabetic foot ulcer were randomly distributed into a control group (n=10) and a PDRN group (n=10). Initial surgical debridement and secondary surgical procedures such as a split-thickness skin graft, primary closure, or local flap were performed. Between the initial surgical debridement and secondary surgical procedures, 0.9% normal saline (3 mL) or PDRN was injected for 2 weeks by the intramuscular (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, 5 days per week) and perilesional routes (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, 2 days per week). Transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2) was evaluated using the Periflux System 5000 with TcPO2/CO2 unit 5040 before the injections and on days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 after the start of the injections. A pathologic review (hematoxylin and eosin stain) of the debrided specimens was conducted by a pathologist, and vessel density (average number of vessels per visual field) was calculated. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the PDRN-treated group showed improvements in peripheral tissue oxygenation on day 7 (P < 0.01), day 14 (P < 0.001), and day 28 (P < 0.001). The pathologic review of the specimens from the PDRN group showed increased angiogenesis and improved inflammation compared with the control group. No statistically significant difference was found between the control group and the PDRN group in terms of vessel density (P=0.094). Complete healing was achieved in every patient. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, PDRN improved peripheral tissue oxygenation. Moreover, PDRN is thought to be effective in improving inflammation and angiogenesis in diabetic foot ulcers.

Polydeoxyribonucleotide Improves Peripheral Tissue Oxygenation and Accelerates Angiogenesis in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

BACKGROUND: Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is known to have anti-inflammatory and angiogenic effects and to accelerate wound healing. The aim of this study was to investigate whether PDRN could improve peripheral tissue oxygenation and angiogenesis in diabetic foot ulcers. METHODS: This was a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial. Twenty patients with a non-healing diabetic foot ulcer were randomly distributed into a control group (n=10) and a PDRN group (n=10). Initial surgical debridement and secondary surgical procedures such as a split-thickness skin graft, primary closure, or local flap were performed. Between the initial surgical debridement and secondary surgical procedures, 0.9% normal saline (3 mL) or PDRN was injected for 2 weeks by the intramuscular (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, 5 days per week) and perilesional routes (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, 2 days per week). Transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2) was evaluated using the Periflux System 5000 with TcPO2/CO2 unit 5040 before the injections and on days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 after the start of the injections. A pathologic review (hematoxylin and eosin stain) of the debrided specimens was conducted by a pathologist, and vessel density (average number of vessels per visual field) was calculated. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the PDRN-treated group showed improvements in peripheral tissue oxygenation on day 7 (P < 0.01), day 14 (P < 0.001), and day 28 (P < 0.001). The pathologic review of the specimens from the PDRN group showed increased angiogenesis and improved inflammation compared with the control group. No statistically significant difference was found between the control group and the PDRN group in terms of vessel density (P=0.094). Complete healing was achieved in every patient. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, PDRN improved peripheral tissue oxygenation. Moreover, PDRN is thought to be effective in improving inflammation and angiogenesis in diabetic foot ulcers.

Perfil de expressão de microRNAs circulantes após uma sessão aguda de exercício em indivíduos com doença arterial periférica: papel da N-acetilcisteína / Profile microRNAs expression of current after an acute exercise session in individuals with peripheral artery disease: role of n-acetylcysteine

A Doença arterial periférica (DAP) é uma manifestação clínica da aterosclerose, quando esta afeta principalmente as artérias que irrigam os membros inferiores. O exercício aeróbico provoca nos membros afetados pela doença um ciclo de reperfusão-isquemia que desencadeia uma resposta sistêmica aguda caracterizada por aumento do estresse oxidativo, inflamação e disfunção endotelial. Assim, uma terapia antioxidante pode ser uma terapia alternativa para esses pacientes. Os microRNAs (miRNAs) foram recentemente reconhecidos como reguladores pós-transcricionais, e a identificação desses pode elucidar mecanismos gênicos adicionais pelos quais o exercício é atuante, levando a identificação de genes que são modulados, abrindo perspectivas de abordagens de terapia gênica que podem levar à reversão do quadro da doença arterial periférica. Objetivo: Verificar o efeito de uma sessão aguda de exercício aeróbico máxima com e sem uso do antioxidante Nacetilcisteína (NAC) sobre a expressão de microRNAs e marcadores inflamatórios e de estresse oxidativo circulantes em pacientes com DAP. Métodos: Foram recrutados pacientes com DAP estágio II do Ambulatório da Disciplina de Cirurgia Vascular do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Os pacientes foram submetidos a duas sessões experimentais após a suplementação de NAC ou Placebo. Foi analisado o perfil de expressão de microRNAs circulantes dos indivíduos em repouso e após o exercício máximo, e confirmado a expressão gênica dos miRNAs alterados após o exercício e de seus alvos; e dos níveis plasmáticos de endotelina-1 (ET-1), proteína quimiotática de monócitos-1 (MCP-1), molécula de adesão intercelular-1 (ICAM-1), molécula de adesão celular vascular-1 (VCAM-1), substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico, 8- isoprostano e glutationa. Resultados: O tratamento com NAC não alterou o xvii tempo de caminhada, as respostas hemodinâmicas e cardiopulmonar dos...

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a clinical manifestation of atherosclerosis, when it mainly affects the arteries supplying the lower limbs. Aerobic exercise causes the member affected by the disease cycle of reperfusion-ischemia triggers an acute systemic response characterized by increased oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Thus, an antioxidant therapy is an alternative therapy for these patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been recognized as posttranscriptional regulators, and identifying these may elucidate additional gene mechanisms by which the exercise is active, leading to identification of genes that are modulated, opening prospects of gene therapy approaches that can lead to picture reversal of peripheral arterial disease. Aim: To determine the effect of an acute bout of maximal aerobic exercise with and without the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the expression of microRNAs and inflammatory markers and circulating oxidative stress in patients with PAD. Methods: We recruited patients with PAD stage II Clinic of Vascular Surgery of Hospital das Clinicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo. The patients underwent two experimental sessions after supplementation of NAC or placebo. the expression profile of circulating microRNAs of individuals at rest and after maximal exercise was analyzed and confirmed the gene expression of miRNAs changed after exercise and its targets; and plasma levels of endothelin-1 (ET-1), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) cell vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) , reactive substances to thiobarbituric acid, 8-isoprostane and glutathione. Results: Treatment with NAC did not change the walking time, and cardiopulmonary hemodynamic responses of patients with PAD. The rest blood flow in the leg of these patients was higher after the completion of the exercise and treatment with NAC did not change this...

Forkhead Transcription Factor FOXO1 Inhibits Angiogenesis in Gastric Cancer in Relation to SIRT1 / Journal of the Korean Cancer Association, 대한암학회지

PURPOSE: We previously reported that forkhead transcription factors of the O class 1 (FOXO1) expression in gastric cancer (GC) was associated with angiogenesis-related molecules. However, there is little experimental evidence for the direct role of FOXO1 in GC. In the present study, we investigated the effect of FOXO1 on the tumorigenesis and angiogenesis in GC and its relationship with SIRT1. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Stable GC cell lines (SNU-638 and SNU-601) infected with a lentivirus containing FOXO1 shRNA were established for animal studies as well as cell culture experiments. We used xenograft tumors in nude mice to evaluate the effect of FOXO1 silencing on tumor growth and angiogenesis. In addition, we examined the association between FOXO1 and SIRT1 by immunohistochemical tissue array analysis of 471 human GC specimens and Western blot analysis of xenografted tumor tissues. RESULTS: In cell culture, FOXO1 silencing enhanced hypoxia inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha) expression and GC cell growth under hypoxic conditions, but not under normoxic conditions. The xenograft study showed that FOXO1 downregulation enhanced tumor growth, microvessel areas, HIF-1alpha activation and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. In addition, inactivated FOXO1 expression was associated with SIRT1 expression in human GC tissues and xenograft tumor tissues. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that FOXO1 inhibits GC growth and angiogenesis under hypoxic conditions via inactivation of the HIF-1alpha-VEGF pathway, possibly in association with SIRT1. Thus, development of treatment modalities aiming at this pathway might be useful for treating GC.

Biología del Desarrollo Vascular: Mecanismos en Condiciones Físiológicas y Estrés Flujo / Biology of Vascular Development: Mechanisms in Physiological Conditions and Shear Stress

La vasculogénesis es controlada por una serie de mecanismos que se activan en función del tiempo y del espacio durante el desarrollo embrionario. Múltiples son las vías de señalización implicadas en las etapas del proceso vasculogénico, las que se inician con estímulos angiogénicos desde el mesodermo o desde el endodermo para dar origen a los angioblastos (células progenitoras endoteliales). Proteínas como el factor de crecimiento vascular endotelial (VEGF), factor de crecimiento fibroblastico 2 (FGF2), entre otras, constituyen factores claves en la inducción de este proceso. Posteriormente, los angioblastos deben migrar para dar origen a los vasos primitivos, proceso en el que participan factores atrayentes y repulsivos que orientarán la dirección de su migración. Adicionalmente, los mecanismos de diferenciación arterio-venosa, regulados por la vía de señalización Hedgegog, VEGF y Notch, son determinados antes del inicio de la circulación, lo que sugiere que el destino de la célula endotelial se encuentra genéticamente determinado. Por su parte, los procesos de remodelación y proliferación vascular post natal, son generados a través de la formación de nuevos vasos a partir de vasos pre existentes (angiogénesis). El factor angiogénico que induce los cambios morfológicos y funcionales en las células endoteliales es el VEGFA, las cuales, adquieren la capacidad de direccionar al nuevo vaso en desarrollo. Uno de los principales estímulos físicos que modifica el patrón de crecimiento de los lechos vasculares es el estrés de flujo, el cual, es susceptible de ser modificado por situaciones de estrés como el ejercicio físico. En la presente revisión, se abordan los principales mecanismos implicados en la regulación fisiológica de la vasculogénesis y angiogénesis. Adicionalmente, se discutirán los mecanismos que sustentan la respuesta vascular inducida por estrés de flujo, considerando su rol en el establecimiento de los patrones de crecimiento vascular.

Vasculogenesis is controlled by a number of mechanisms that are activated as a function of time and space during embryonic development. Multiple signaling pathways are involved in the stages of vasculogenic process, which start with angiogenic stimuli from the mesoderm or the endoderm to give rise to angioblasts (endothelial progenitor cells). Proteins such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), among others, are key factors in the induction of this process. Subsequently, the angioblasts must migrate to give birth to primitive vessels, a process that involves attractive and repulsive factors that guide the direction of their migration. Additionally, arterial and venous differentiation regulated hedgegog signaling pathway, VEGF and Notch are determined before the start of circulation, suggesting that the endothelial cell fate is determined genetically. On the other hand, the processes of remodeling and postnatal vascular proliferation are generated through the formation of new vessels from pre-existing vessels (angiogenesis). The angiogenic factor that induces morphological and functional changes in the endothelial cells is the VEGFA, these vessels acquire the ability to address the new developing vessel. One of the main physical stimuli that modify the growth pattern of the vascular beds is the shear stress, which is modified by exercise. In this review, the main mechanisms involved in the physiological regulation of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis are addressed. Additionally, the mechanisms underlying the vascular response induced by shear stress will be discussed, considering its role in establishing patterns of vascular growth.

Avaliação clínica de proteínas modeladoras da permeabilidade endotelial como biomarcadores para estratificação de risco na sepse em pacientes com neoplasias hematológicas e neutropenia febril / Clinical evaluation of modulators of endothelial permeability as biomarkers for risk stratification in sepsis patients with hematological malignancies and febrile neutropenia

A neutropenia febril (NF) em pacientes com neoplasias hematológicas é caracterizada pelo alto risco de sepse e choque séptico. Embora a utilização de escores clínicos como o MASCC permita a identificação de pacientes de baixo risco, este escore é menos informativo em pacientes de alto risco, onde se encaixam a maioria dos pacientes com neoplasias hematológicas, além daqueles submetidos a esquemas intensivos de quimioterapia. Ao mesmo tempo, a aplicação de biomarcadores de gravidade como a procalcitonina, validados em pacientes não-neutropênicos, é controversa em pacientes com NF. A quebra da barreira endotelial é um elemento chave no choque séptico, de modo que proteínas envolvidas neste processo são candidatos atrativos como biomarcadores de gravidade na sepse. Neste estudo, avaliamos prospectivamente o valor da dosagem de VEGF-A, sFlt-1, Ang-1 e Ang-2 como biomarcadores da evolução para choque séptico em 120 pacientes com NF. Pacientes internados nas enfermarias de Hematologia e Transplante de Medula Óssea do HC da UNICAMP para tratamento de NF entre março de 2011 e 2012 foram convidados a participar. As amostras foram coletadas na manhã seguinte à entrada no estudo, junto com a coleta de exames de rotina. O estudo foi desenhado com o objetivo de mimetizar as condições de coleta e processamento das amostras, que seriam encontradas na prática clínica real. Foi avaliada a evolução para choque séptico e mortalidade em 28 dias. Os resultados foram comparados com marcadores de prognóstico clássicos como proteína C reativa, e escores MASCC e SOFA. No total, 99 pacientes preencheram os critérios de inclusão, dos quais 19,8% evoluíram com choque séptico. Não foram observadas diferenças clínicas e demográficas entre os pacientes com NF não-complicada e choque séptico, exceto pelo escore SOFA, significativamente mais elevado no segundo grupo.

Febrile neutropenia (FN) in patients with hematologic malignancies is characterized by a high risk of sepsis complications and septic shock. Although the use of clinical scores such as the MASCC allows the identification of low-risk patients, this score is much less informative in high-risk patients, a category in which most patients with hematologic malignancies, and those undergoing intensive chemotherapy regimens, fit in. At the same time, the use of classical biomarkers such as procalcitonin in non-neutropenic patients is controversial in patients with FN. Endothelial barrier breakdown is a key element in septic shock, so that proteins involved in this process are attractive candidates as biomarkers of sepsis severity. In this study, we prospectively evaluated the value of VEGF-A, sFlt-1, Ang-1 and Ang-2 serum levels as biomarkers of progression to septic shock in 120 patients with FN. Patients hospitalized in the Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation in-patient units of a university hospital (HC-UNICAMP) for the treatment of FN between March 2011 and March 2012 were invited to participate. Samples were collected in the following morning after study entry, along with the collection of routine labs. The study was designed to mimic the conditions of blood sample collection and processing that would be encountered in "real-world" clinical practice. Clinical outcomes were (1) progression to septic shock and (2) death within 28 days from fever onset. Results were compared with classical prognostic markers such as C-reactive protein, and MASCC and SOFA scores. In total, 99 patients met the inclusion criteria, of which 19.8% progressed to septic shock. No differences clinical and demographic differences were observed between patients with uncomplicated-FN or septic shock, except for a higher SOFA scores in the latter group.

The Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide on the Survival of Random Pattern Skin Flaps in Rats

BACKGROUND: Partial or complete necrosis of a skin flap is a common problem. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) can be extracted from trout sperm and used as a tissue repair agent. The aim of this study was to investigate whether PDRN could improve the survival of random pattern skin flaps in rats. METHODS: Twenty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: the PDRN treatment group (n=11) and the control group (n=11). Caudally pedicled random pattern skin flaps were elevated on their dorsal skin and resutured. The treatment group received daily intraperitoneal administration of PDRN (8 mg/kg/day), and the control group received fluid vehicle (NaCl 0.9%, 8 mg/kg/day) from day 0 to day 6. On day 7, the flap survival was evaluated and the harvested tissue surrounding the demarcation line of the necrotic area was stained with H&E, anti-rat vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) antibody, and PECAM-1/CD31 antibody. RESULTS: The average necrotic area of the flap in the PDRN group was significantly smaller when compared with that of the control group. Histologic and immunohistochemical evaluation showed that granulation thickness score and VEGF-positive staining cells were marked higher in the PDRN group than in the control group. PECAM-1/CD31-positive microvascular densities were significantly higher in the PDRN group when compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms that PDRN improves the survival of random pattern skin flaps in rats. These results may represent a new therapeutic approach to enhancing flap viability and achieving faster wound repair.

Inibição do receptor tipo-1 ativado por protease (PAR¹) na doença e reparo periodontal / Type 1 protease-activated receptor (PAR 1 ) inhibition on periodontal disease and repair

A sinalização celular por PAR¹ tem mostrado influenciar uma ampla gama de respostas patofisiológicas, incluindo ativação plaquetária, crescimento tumoral, inflamação e metástases. Baseando-se nisto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito do Parstatin, droga que tem ação biológica oposta àquela desencadeada pela ativação do PAR¹, durante o processo de indução e reparo da inflamação. Foi utilizado um modelo de periodontite experimental em ratos através da instalação de ligaduras de fio de algodão nos segundos molares superiores. Para isto, 72 ratos foram separados aleatoriamente em 9 grupos com 8 animais cada e receberam as ligaduras e injeção de veículo ou Parstatin nos períodos de 7 e 14 dias para observar a ação da inibição deste receptor nos períodos de indução de inflamação e reparo. Após estes períodos, os animais foram sacrificados e tiveram as maxilas removidas, dissecadas e divididas ao meio para avaliação histológica e radiográfica a fim de caracterizar infiltrado de células inflamatórias e perda óssea ao redor dos dentes.

PAR¹ cell signaling has been shown to be involved in several pathophysiological responses including platelet activation, tumor growth, inflammation and metastasis. Based on this, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of Parstatin, a drug that presents a biological effect opposed to that of PAR¹ receptor activation, on inflammation induction and repair processes. Rats were subjected to cotton ligature-induced periodontitis bilaterally on the second upper molar teeth. Seventy-two rats were randomly assigned to 9 groups (n=8/group) and received ligatures and injection of vehicle or Parstatin for 7 or 14 days for both inflammation and repair induction. After that, the animals were sacrificed and their maxilla removed, dissected and divided in two for histologic and radiographic evaluation to characterize inflammatory cell infiltrate and bone loss around teeth.

Serial Plasma Levels of Angiogenic Factors in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Patients with acute myocardial infarction show varying degrees of collateral development. However, the relationships between angiogenic factors and degree of collaterals are not well known. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Fifty-nine patients (mean age, 59+/-10 years) with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients were divided into one of 2 groups: group I (Rentrop collateral grade 0/1, n=34) or group II (grade 2/3, n=25). Plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble VEGF receptor (sFlt-1), angiopoietin (Ang)-2, and soluble Tie-2 at baseline, 24 and 48 hours after PCI were measured. RESULTS: There were fewer diabetic patients and higher incidence of previous angina and multi-vessel disease in group II. Group II had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction and a trend toward longer pain-to-balloon time. Plasma levels of Ang-2, sFlt-1 were elevated prior to primary PCI and decreased after PCI, whereas plasma level of VEGF was relatively low initially, however rose after PCI. sTie-2 levels showed no significant interval change in group I, but decreased over time in group II. VEGF, sFlt-1, and Tie-2 levels did not differ between the groups at each time point. However, plasma levels of Ang-2 were higher in group I than in group II at baseline and at 48 hours. CONCLUSION: Presence of collaterals in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI was associated with lesser rise in Ang-2 plasma level. VEGF showed a delayed response to acute ischemia compared to Ang-2. Clinical implications of our findings need to be investigated in further studies.

Neoangiogenese na aterosclerose: modulacao por lipides nitrados / Neoangiogenesis in atherosclerosis: modulation through nitrated lipids

Lípides nitrados (NO₂-FA) são apontados como uma nova classe de mediadores lipídicos, podendo atuar como reservatórios endógenos de Oxido nítrico (^.NO) bem como moduladores pluripotentes de sinalização celular. Recentemente, tem sido sugerido que os doadores de ^.NO estariam envolvidos na regulação da angiogênese. Evidências contundentes indicam ainda que o processo de neovascularização poderia contribuir para a patogênese de uma serie de condições clínicas, entre elas a aterosclerose. Contudo, apesar de diversos estudos terem explorado os efeitos biológicos dos NO₂-FA, os efeitos destes compostos sobre o processo de angiogênese não haviam sido descritos. Dessa maneira, o presente trabalho investigou os efeitos dos NO₂-FA (derivados da nitração do acido linoléico e oléico) no processo de angiogênese. Demonstrou-se que os NO₂-FA podem atuar como mediadores pro-angiogênicos. Este efeito foi caracterizado em células endoteliais humanas, assim como, em modelos ex vivo e in vivo. Nas células endoteliais, observou-se que os NO₂-FA não influenciaram a proliferação ou a viabilidade celular, ao passo que estimularam a migração. Demonstrou-se também que os NO₂-FA podem modular o brotamento ex vivo de novos vasos, em cultura de anéis de aorta de rato, bem como o processo angiogênico in vivo observado na membrana corioalantóica de embrião de galinha. Adicionalmente, os NO₂-FA induziram a expressão do fator de crescimento endotelial vascular (VEGF), que é o principal mediador do processo de angiogênese. Em relação ao mecanismo de ação, os achados sugerem que os efeitos demonstrados seriam via mecanismos dependentes de ^.NO, uma vez que foram abolidos na presença de um seqüestrador de ^.NO, enquanto concentrações equivalentes dos Lípides precursores não demonstraram qualquer influência nas condições experimentais utilizadas neste estudo...

Nitrated lipids ( NO₂-FA) are described as a new class of lipid mediators that are able to act as endogenously nitric oxide ( ^.NO) reservoirs as well as pluripotent cell signaling modulators. Furthermore, recent findings suggest that ^.NO donors could be involved in the regulation of angiogenesis. Compelling evidence also indicate that the neovascularization process might contribute to the pathogenesis of many clinical conditions, such as atherosclerosis. However, although several studies have explored the NO₂-FA biological properties, the effects of these compounds on the angiogenic process remain unknown. Hence, the present study investigated the effects of the NO₂-FA (derivates from the nitration of linoleic and oleic acids at physiological concentrations) on angiogenesis process. It is demonstrated that the NO2-FA could act as pro-angiogenic mediators. This effect was observed not only in human endothelial cells but also in ex vivo and in vivo models. Using endothelial cells, it is showed that NO₂-FA failed to affect cell proliferation or influence cellular viability, but significantly stimulated cell migration. It was also found that the NO₂-FA might modulate the ex vivo sprouting of new vessels as well as the in vivo angiogenic process, while inducing the expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor, the main mediator of angiogenesis. The data are consistent with the hypothesis that the observed effects mediated by NO-dependent mechanisms, since the presence of a ^.NO scavenger abrogated the induced effects, whereas equimolar concentrations of its precursors, showed no effect on angiogenesis under our experimental conditions. Finally, the pro-angiogenic effects of NO2-FA were mediated by the stabilization of the hypoxia inducible factor-l1á (HIF-1á) protein, because these compounds increased the protein amount and failed to show inductive effects...

Avaliação do papel diagnóstico e prognóstico da expressão imunoistoquímica de NDRG1, osteonectina, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1 e galectina-3 em espécimes tireoideanos por tissue microarrays / Study of the diagnostic and prognostic role of immunohistochemical expression of NDRG1, osteonectin, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1 and galectin-3 in thyroid specimens by tissue microarray

INTRODUÇÃO: O crescimento e a progressão de diversos tipos de tumores dependem da angiogênese, isto é, a formação de novos vasos sanguíneos. Fatores da família do VEGF (VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR) são potentes mediadores da angiogênese e níveis elevados destes fatores podem ser detectados em vários tumores humanos. Outras proteínas como NDRG1, osteonectina, HIF-1 e galectina-3 encontram-se associadas, de modo indireto, à angiogênese. MÉTODOS: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a expressão imunoistoquímica de NDRG1, osteonectina, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1 e galectina-3 em 265 lesões benignas e malignas da tireóide por tissue microarray (TMA), incluindo tireóide normal, bócio, adenoma folicular, carcinoma papilífero, carcinoma folicular e metástases de carcinoma papilífero e folicular da tireóide. Lâminas em diferentes níveis do bloco de TMA foram submetidas à reação imunoistoquímica utilizando-se anticorpos específicos contra NDRG1, osteonectina, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1, galectina-3. Foi realizada uma avaliação semiquantitativa da expressão destas proteínas, analisando-se a intensidade de coloração e a porcentagem de células positivas para cada marcador. RESULTADOS: De um modo geral, a expressão de NDRG1, osteonectina, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1 e galectina-3 foi maior nos carcinomas de tireóide em relação ao bócio e adenoma folicular. Dentre as proteínas estudadas, a galectina-3 foi aquela que apresentou melhor acurácia diagnóstica na distinção entre lesões benignas e malignas da tireóide, com uma sensibilidade 64,1% e especificidade de 94,4%. Nos carcinomas de tireóide, a expressão de NDRG1, VEGF-A, VEGF-C e HIF-1 apresentou correlação estatística significativa com estádio TNM mais avançado e alto risco pelo método AMES. A análise multivariada revelou que a idade 45 anos, o tamanho tumoral maior do que 4,0 cm, o estádio IV do TNM e a perda de expressão de galectina-3 foram fatores que contribuíram para a recorrência...

INTRODUCTION: The growth and progression of different types of tumors depend on angiogenesis, i.e., the formation of new blood vessels. Members of the VEGF family (VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR) are potent mediators of angiogenesis and elevated levels of these factors can be detected in various human tumors. Other proteins such as NDRG1, osteonectin, HIF-1 and galectin-3 are indirectly associated with angiogenesis. METHODS: The objective of this study was to investigate the immunohistochemical expression of NDRG1, osteonectin, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1 and galectin-3 in 265 benign and malignant thyroid lesions by tissue microarray (TMA), including normal thyroid, goiter, follicular adenoma, papillary carcinoma, follicular carcinoma, and papillary and follicular thyroid carcinoma metastases. Slides obtained from different levels of the TMA block were submitted to immunohistochemistry using specific antibodies against NDRG1, osteonectin, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1, and galectin-3. The expression of these proteins was analyzed semiquantitatively, evaluating the intensity of staining and the percentage of positive cells for each marker. RESULTS: In general, the expression of NDRG1, osteonectin, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Flk-1/KDR, HIF-1 and galectin-3 was higher in thyroid carcinomas when compared to goiter and follicular adenoma. Among the proteins studied, galectin-3 presented the best diagnostic accuracy in the distinction between benign and malignant thyroid lesions, with a sensitivity of 64.1% and specificity of 94.4%. In thyroid carcinomas, the expression of NDRG1, VEGF-A, VEGF-C and HIF-1 was significantly correlated with a more advanced TNM stage and AMES high risk. Multivariate analysis revealed that age 45 years, tumor size > 4.0 cm, TNM stage IV and loss of expression of galectin-3 were associated with recurrence or death in patients with thyroid carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS: In thyroid carcinomas, the expression of NDRG1, VEGF-A, VEGF-C and HIF-1...

synergic effects of rapamycin and extremely low frequency electromagnetic field on angiogenesis

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is a dynamic and complex activity which is needed for embryogenesis and other physiological processes. However, in many pathological conditions such as solid tumor progression, the disease appears to be associated with persistent up-regulated angiogenesis. In this research we used 0.04 T [tesla] electromagnetic field as a synergic treatment with rapamycin on angiogenesis. In this experimental study, 70 Ross fertilized eggs were randomly divided into 5 groups as following: 1] control, 2] sham-exposed, 3] a group treated with rapamycin, 4] a group treated with electromagnetic field and 5] a group treated with both rapamycin and electromagnetic field. In day 2, a window was opened on eggs in sterile condition. In day 8 a gelatin sponge was placed on chorioalantoic membrane [CAM] and was soaked with 5 micro l rapamycin in group 3 and group 5. Groups 4 and group 5 were placed in 400 Gauss magnetic field for 4 hours in day 10. In day 12, CAMs were examined and photographed by research photo-stereomicroscope in all cases. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Mann-Whitney tests. Comparison between average number and length of vessels in controls and sham-exposed didn't show any significant differences. In group 3 and 4, a significant decrease was shown in the average number and length compared with controls. Finally, comparison between group 3 and group 5 showed a significant decrease in the average number and length of vessels in group 5 which had been treated with both rapamycin and 400 [Gauss] G electromagnetic field. The results of this study showed that 0.04 T magnetic field has an inhibitory effect on angiogenesis in CAM and can enhance the effect of rapamycin as an anti-angiogenesis drug

comparison of the level of serum concentration of Gro-A chemokine in diabetic type-2 patients and healthy people: a short communication

Type-2 diabetes mellitus is the most common type of diabetes, but the main cause of which is yet to be identified. One of the symptoms of diabetes is delay in healing of the wounds. Chemokines play key roles in both the regulation of immune system functions and regeneration of the damaged tissues. Growth-regulatory oncogen [Gro] is an angiogenesis chemokine. Therefore, we dicided to compare the serum level of Gro-alpha chemokine in diabetic patients and healthy people. In this descriptive study respondents were 45 diabetic and 45 healthy people referred to Ali Ibn Abitaleb hospital in Rafsanjan. The level of Gro-alpha was detected by ELISA. Data were analysed using SPSS version 12. T-test was used to compare continuous data. Although there were differences between diabetic and healthy people based on the serum level of Gro-alpha chemokine, this difference was not significant. Based on our results, it can be concluded that diabetic patients are unable to produce enough Gro-alpha and this can be the reason for the delay in healing of the wounds. Furthermore, to assess the role of this chemokine more number of samples are needed for examination

Potencial angiogênico de células pulpares humanas em hipóxia / The angiogenic potential of human dental pulp cells in hypoxia

Luxações dentárias resultam em injúrias ao feixe vásculo-nervoso, o que pode causar redução significante no nível de oxigênio das polpas dentárias, ou mesmo morte deste tecido conjuntivo especializado. O conhecimento dos mecanismos envolvidos na resposta das células pulpares à hipóxia pode melhorar o prognóstico dos tratamentos das luxações dentárias. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento de células-tronco (DPSC) e de fibroblastos (HDPF) de polpas dentárias humanas em condições de hipóxia e a capacidade destas em estimular a proliferação e formação de tubos capilares por células endoteliais microvasculares dérmicas humanas (HDMEC). As análises do western blot e imunocitoquímica foram realizadas para avaliar o efeito da hipóxia na ativação do fator de transcrição induzido pela hipóxia 1 (HIF-1alfa). A expressão dos fatores de crescimento vascular endotelial (VEGF) e fibroblástico básico (bFGF) foi avaliada pelos testes de imunoensaio ELISA. O efeito do HIF-1alfa na expressão do VEGF foi avaliado pelo tratamento das células DPSC e HDPF com 40 μM YC-1, inibidor do HIF-1alfa. Para a avaliação da angiogênese in vitro, os testes de proliferação celular (WST-1) e de formação de tubos capilares em gel de colágeno foram realizados após tratamento das células HDMEC com os meios de acondicionamento das células DPSC ou HDPF, em condições de normóxia ou hipóxia.. A análise dos dados obtidos foi realizada por testes estatísticos não-paramétricos com nível de significância de 5%. Aumento da atividade do HIF-1alfa e da expressão de VEGF foram observados nas células DPSC e HDPF em condições de hipóxia. Entretanto, não foram observadas alterações nos níveis de expressão de bFGF. A expressão do HIF-1alfa foi inibida...

Dental luxations can result in the severing of the dental pulp and the creation of a hypoxic environment that might lead to the death of the pulp tissue. Improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying the response of dental pulp cells to hypoxic conditions might lead to better treatment of dental luxations. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the behavior of Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSC) and Human Dental Pulp Fibroblasts (HDPF) under hypoxia and their ability to stimulate proliferation and sprouting of endothelial cells. Western blots and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the effect of hypoxia on the activation of the transcriptional factor HIF-1α. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Basic Fibroblastic Growth Factor (bFGF) expression was evaluated by ELISA. The effect of HIF-1αon VEGF expression was evaluated by treating DPSC or HDPF with 40 μM YC-1, an inhibitor of HIF-1α. To evaluate the angiogenic potential of dental pulp cells in vitro, human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMEC) were treated with conditioned medium from DPSC or HDPF in normoxia or hypoxia. Sprouting and WST-1 assays were used to evaluate capillaries tubes-like formation and cell proliferation rate,respectively. The statistic analysis was performed by non-parametric tests. HIF-1αactivity and VEGF expression were up-regulated in DPSC and HDPF under hypoxic conditions. However, no changes in the expression levels of bFGF were observed. YC-1 40μM was able to inhibit HIF-1alpha in both cell lines and it also reduced VEGF expression in DPSCs in hypoxia. HDPF under hypoxia increased HDMEC sprouting by 50% when compared to HDPF in normoxia, and by 30% when compared to DPSC in hypoxia. Notably, HDPF under hypoxia stimulated HDMEC proliferation by 30% when compared to DPSC in hypoxia. It was concluded...

Distúrbios angioproliferativos bucais e cutâneos: correlações histopatológicas e expressão de mediadores angiogênicos / Oral and cutaneous angioproliferative diseases: histopathologic correlations and expression of angiogenic mediators

A mucosa bucal e a pele podem apresentar distúrbios vasculares proliferativos com comportamento biológico variado. Para classificar tais lesões foram adotados critérios etiopatogênicos e a avaliação desses critérios em grupos específicos de lesões angioproliferativas pode contribuir para o diagnóstico e tratamento das mesmas. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi caracterizar as principais lesões angioproliferativas da mucosa bucal, comparando-as com os mesmos tipos de lesões cutâneas, em relação aos achados histopatológicos e à expressão endotelial do fator de crescimento fibroblástico básico (FGFb) e do receptor p75 para neurotrofinas (p75NTR). Foram utilizados espécimes arquivados em blocos parafinados, divididos conforme o diagnóstico microscópico em seis grupos: (I) malformações venosas; (II) malformações linfáticas; (III) granulomas piogênicos; (IV) hemangiomas capilares; (V) hemangiomas arteriovenosos; (VI) sarcomas de Kaposi. Cada grupo foi subdividido em dois grupos quanto a sua localização bucal e cutânea. Os padrões microscópicos das lesões angioproliferativas bucais e cutâneas de nossa amostra são similares e podem ser classificadas sob os mesmos parâmetros. No entanto, alguns grupos apresentaram diferenças quanto ao estádio de maturação das lesões, em relação à incidência e principalmente em relação à expressão dos mediadores estudados. A diferença na expressão de FGFb e p75NTR, observada entre os grupos bucais e cutâneos dos mesmos tipos de lesões, permitiunos concluir que a evolução da angiogênese na mucosa bucal e na pele não é necessariamente mediado pelos mesmos fatores. Tais diferenças abrem perspectivas para pesquisas futuras e abordagens terapêuticas baseadas em tecnologias moleculares.

The oral mucosa and the skin may present proliferative vascular diseases with varied biological behavior. To classify such lesions, pathogenic criteria were adopted in specific groups of vascular lesions. The objective of this retrospective study was to characterize the main oral vascular lesions, comparing them with the same types of cutaneous lesions. The histopathologic findings were compared, as well as the endothelial expression of basic fibroblastic growth factor (FGFb) and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). Paraffin embedded specimens were purchased and divided, according to microscopic diagnostic, into six groups: (I) venous malformations; (II) lymphatic malformations; (III) pyogenic granulomas; (IV) capillary hemangiomas; (V) arteriovenous hemangiomas; (VI) Kaposi sarcomas. Each group was divided in two subgroups of oral and cutaneous location. The microscopic data demonstrated that oral and cutaneous vascular lesions, in our sample, are similar and they can be classified under the same parameters. However, some groups presented differences related to maturation stage, incidence, and expression FGFb and p75NTR. These differences allowed us to conclude that the evolution of angiogenic process inside oral mucosa and in the skin, not necessarily is mediated by the same biological factors. Such differences open perspectives for future researches and therapeutic approaches, based on molecular technologies.

Prognostic value of tumour endothelial marker-8 in patients with breast cancer

Tumour angiogenesis is a critical step in the growth, metastatic spread, and re-growth of many cancers. Tumour endothelial marker 8 [TEM-8] is a newly discovered molecule belongs to a family of endothelial markers that are raised during tumour angiogenesis. This study sought to examine the level of TEM-8 expression at the protein and mRNA level in human breast cancer tissues, and in a panel of human breast cancer cell lines, and also to determine if TEM-8 can be used as a suitable marker for identifying tumour associated micro-vessels. At the mRNA level more tumours showed positive TEM-8 expression compared to normal background tissues. TEM-8 was detected in a variety of breast cancer cell lines, endothelial cells [HEC V] and in a human fibroblast cell line [MRC5] at both the mRNA and protein level. Using immunohistochemistry the distribution of TEM-8 staining was more widespread in invasive breast cancer tissues compared to normal background tissues. Furthermore, the TEM-8 marker was found to be more discriminatory in identifying micro-vessels in tumour endothelium [2.8 +/- 0.83 vs. normal 1.66 +/- 0.52; P < 0.011], compared to the vWFA marker [1.61 +/- 0.54 vs. normal 2.71 +/- 0.76; P < 0.009]. Raised levels of TEM-8 were associated with shorter survival outcome, but were not correlated to disease free survival as shown by Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis. We conclude that TEM-8 is a useful marker for identifying tumour associated micro-vessels and that elevated levels are associated with disease progression, which may have some bearing on the prognostic outcome in breast cancer. [Abbreviations ATR- antrax toxin receptor, cDNA -complementary dexoyribonucleic acid; EF-edema factor; LF- lethal factor; LeTx-lethal toxin; mRNA-messenger ribonucleic acid; PCR- polymerase chain reaction; Q-RT-PCR- quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction; RNA-ribonucleic acid; TEM-8 tumour endothelial marker-8]