PET/CT and inflammatory mediators in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease / PET/TC e mediadores inflamatórios na doença pulmonar intersticial associada à esclerose sistêmica

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the correlation of HRCT findings with pulmonary metabolic activity in the corresponding regions using 18F-FDG PET/CT and inflammatory markers in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 23 adult patients with SSc-associated ILD without other connective tissue diseases. The study also involved 18F-FDG PET/CT, HRCT, determination of serum chemokine levels, clinical data, and pulmonary function testing. Results: In this cohort of patients with long-term disease (disease duration, 11.8 ± 8.7 years), a nonspecific interstitial pneumonia pattern was found in 19 (82.6%). Honeycombing areas had higher median standardized uptake values (1.95; p = 0.85). Serum levels of soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 2, C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 were higher in SSc patients than in controls. Serum levels of CCL2-a marker of fibroblast activity-were correlated with pure ground-glass opacity (GGO) areas on HRCT scans (p = 0.007). 18F-FDG PET/CT showed significant metabolic activity for all HRCT patterns. The correlation between serum CCL2 levels and GGO on HRCT scans suggests a central role of fibroblasts in these areas, adding new information towards the understanding of the mechanisms surrounding cellular and molecular elements and their expression on HRCT scans in patients with SSc-associated ILD. Conclusions: 18F-FDG PET/CT appears to be unable to differentiate the intensity of metabolic activity across HRCT patterns in chronic SSc patients. The association between CCL2 and GGO might be related to fibroblast activity in these areas; however, upregulated CCL2 expression in the lung tissue of SSc patients should be investigated in order to gain a better understanding of this association.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a correlação entre achados de TCAR e a atividade metabólica pulmonar nas regiões correspondentes por meio de PET/TC com 18F-FDG e marcadores inflamatórios em pacientes com doença pulmonar intersticial (DPI) associada à esclerose sistêmica (ES). Métodos: Estudo transversal envolvendo 23 pacientes adultos com DPI associada à ES sem outras doenças do tecido conjuntivo. O estudo também envolveu PET/TC com 18F-FDG, TCAR, dosagem sérica de quimiocinas, dados clínicos e testes de função pulmonar. Resultados: Nessa coorte de pacientes com doença de longa duração (11,8 ± 8,7 anos), 19 (82,6%) apresentaram o padrão de pneumonia intersticial não específica. A mediana dos valores padronizados de captação foi maior nas áreas de faveolamento (1,95; p = 0,85). Os níveis séricos de soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 2, C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) e C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 foram maiores nos pacientes com ES que nos controles. Os níveis séricos de CCL2 - um marcador de atividade fibroblástica - correlacionaram-se com áreas de opacidade em vidro fosco (OVF) pura na TCAR (p = 0,007). A PET/TC com 18F-FDG mostrou atividade metabólica significativa para todos os padrões de TCAR. A correlação entre níveis séricos de CCL2 e OVF na TCAR sugere que os fibroblastos desempenham um papel fundamental nessas áreas, acrescentando novas informações para a compreensão dos mecanismos que envolvem elementos celulares e moleculares e sua expressão na TCAR em pacientes com DPI associada à ES. Conclusões: A PET/TC com 18F-FDG aparentemente não consegue diferenciar a intensidade da atividade metabólica nos diferentes padrões de TCAR em pacientes com ES crônica. A associação entre CCL2 e OVF pode estar relacionada à atividade fibroblástica nessas áreas; entretanto, a expressão suprarregulada de CCL2 no tecido pulmonar de pacientes com ES deve ser investigada para que se compreenda melhor essa associação.

Dysbiotic oral microbiota contributes to alveolar bone loss associated with obesity in mice

Abstract Periodontal diseases (PD) are inflammatory conditions that affect the teeth supporting tissues. Increased body fat tissues may contribute to activation of the systemic inflammatory response, leading to comorbidities. Some studies have shown that individuals with obesity present higher incidence of PD than eutrophics. Objective: To investigate the impact of obesity on periodontal tissues and oral microbiota in mice. Methodology: Two obesity mice models were performed, one using 12 weeks of the dietary protocol with a high-fat (HF) diet in C57BL/6 mice and the other using leptin receptor-deficient mice (db/db-/-), which became spontaneously obese. After euthanasia, a DNA-DNA hybridization technique was employed to evaluate the microbiota composition and topical application of chlorhexidine (CHX), an antiseptic, was used to investigate the impact of the oral microbiota on the alveolar bone regarding obesity. Results: Increased adipose tissue may induce alveolar bone loss, neutrophil recruitment, and changes in the oral biofilm, similar to that observed in an experimental model of PD. Topical application of CHX impaired bone changes. Conclusion: Obesity may induce changes in the oral microbiota and neutrophil recruitment, which are associated with alveolar bone loss.

The protective arm of the renin -angiotensin system may counteract the intense inflammatory process in fetuses with posterior urethral valves / O braço protetor do sistema renina-angiotensina pode contrapor-se ao intenso processo inflamatório em fetos com válvula de uretra posterior

Abstract Objective: Posterior urethral valve is the most common lower urinary tract obstruction in male children. A high percentage of patients with posterior urethral valve evolve to end‐stage renal disease. Previous studies showed that cytokines, chemokines, and components of the renin-angiotensin system contribute to the renal damage in obstructive uropathies. The authors recently found that urine samples from fetuses with posterior urethral valve have increased levels of inflammatory molecules. The aim of this study was to measure renin-angiotensin system molecules and to investigate their correlation with previously detected inflammatory markers in the same urine samples of fetuses with posterior urethral valve. Methods: Urine samples from 24 fetuses with posterior urethral valve were collected and compared to those from 22 healthy male newborns at the same gestational age (controls). Renin-angiotensin system components levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Fetuses with posterior urethral valve presented increased urinary levels of angiotensin (Ang) I, Ang‐(1‐7) and angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 in comparison with controls. ACE levels were significantly reduced and Ang II levels were similar in fetuses with posterior urethral valve in comparison with controls. Conclusions: Increased urinary levels of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 and of Ang‐(1‐7) in fetuses with posterior urethral valve could represent a regulatory response to the intense inflammatory process triggered by posterior urethral valve.

Resumo Objetivo: A válvula de uretra posterior é a obstrução do trato urinário inferior mais comum em crianças do sexo masculino. Uma alta porcentagem de pacientes com válvula de uretra posterior evolui para doença renal em estágio final. Estudos anteriores mostraram que citocinas, quimiocinas e componentes do sistema renina-angiotensina contribuem para o dano renal em uropatias obstrutivas. Recentemente, descobrimos que amostras de urina de fetos com válvula de uretra posterior tinham níveis aumentados de moléculas inflamatórias. O objetivo deste estudo foi medir as moléculas de renina-angiotensina e investigar sua correlação com marcadores inflamatórios previamente detectados nas mesmas amostras de urina de fetos com válvula de uretra posterior. Métodos: Amostras de urina de 24 fetos com válvula de uretra posterior foram coletadas e comparadas com amostras de urina de 22 recém-nascidos saudáveis de mesma idade gestacional (controles). Os níveis dos componentes de SRA foram medidos por ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática. Resultados: Os fetos com válvula de uretra posterior apresentaram níveis urinários aumentados de angiotensina (Ang) I, Ang-(1-7) e enzima conversora de angiotensina 2 em comparação com os controles. Os níveis de enzima conversora de angiotensina eram significativamente menores e os níveis de Ang II eram semelhantes nos fetos com válvula de uretra posterior em comparação com os controles. Conclusões: O aumento dos níveis urinários de enzima conversora de angiotensina 2 e de Ang-(1-7) em fetos com válvula de uretra posterior poderia representar uma resposta regulatória ao intenso processo inflamatório desencadeado pela válvula de uretra posterior.

Urinary cytokine profiles according to the site of blockade of the renin-angiotensin system in nephrectomized rats / Perfil de citocinas urinárias de acordo com o local de bloqueio do sistema renina angiotensina em ratos nefrectomizados

Abstract Introduction: It is still unknown how the pharmacological inhibition of the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) impacts the levels of inflammation and fibrosis biomarkers. Objective: This study sought to evaluate the effect of enalapril, candesartan and aliskiren on urinary levels of cytokines in a model of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: Male Wistar rats were submitted to surgical removal of ¾ of renal parenchyma to induce CKD (¾ nephrectomy), or subjected to sham surgery (control). Animals were then randomized into five groups: Sham surgery receiving vehicle; ¾ Nephrectomy receiving vehicle; ¾ Nephrectomy receiving enalapril (10 mg/kg); ¾ Nephrectomy receiving candesartan (10 mg/kg) and ¾ Nephrectomy receiving aliskiren (10 mg/kg). Urine output, water intake, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and urinary concentrations of creatinine, urea, albuminuria, Na+, K+, interleukin (IL) -1β, IL-6, IL-10 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) were measured. Results: Nephrectomy significantly impaired renal function, increased MAP and altered the levels of all evaluated cytokines in urine. Enalapril, candesartan and aliskiren improved renal function and decreased MAP and IL-6 when compared to vehicle-treated nephrectomized group. Candesartan and aliskiren decreased IL-1β, while only candesartan reduced TGF-β and only aliskiren increased IL-10. Conclusion: Enalapril, candesartan and aliskiren presented similar effects on improving renal function and reducing MAP and urinary levels of IL-6 in rats with CKD. On the other hand, cytokine profile differed according to the treatment, suggesting that differential mechanisms were triggered in response to the site of RAS blockade.

Resumo Introdução: Ainda não se sabe como a inibição farmacológica do Sistema Renina Angiotensina (SRA) afeta os níveis de biomarcadores de inflamação e fibrose. Objetivo: Este estudo pretendeu avaliar o efeito de enalapril, candesartan e alisquireno sobre os níveis urinários de citocinas em um modelo de doença renal crônica (DRC). Métodos: Ratos Wistar machos foram submetidos à remoção cirúrgica de ¾ do parênquima renal para induzir DRC (nefrectomia), ou submetidos à cirurgia fictícia (controle). Animais foram então randomizados em cinco grupos: Cirurgia fictícia recebendo veículo; Nefrectomia recebendo veículo; Nefrectomia recebendo enalapril (10 mg/kg); Nefrectomia recebendo candesartan (10 mg/kg) e Nefrectomia recebendo alisquireno (10 mg/kg). Débito urinário, ingesta hídrica, pressão arterial media (PAM) e concentrações urinárias de creatinina, ureia, albumina, Na+, K+, interleucina (IL) -1β, IL-6, IL-10 e fator de transformação e crescimento beta (TGF-β) foram medidas. Resultados: A nefrectomia comprometeu significativamente a função renal, aumentou a PAM e alterou os níveis de todas as citocinas avaliadas na urina. Enalapril, candesartan e alisquireno melhoraram a função renal e diminuíram a PAM e a IL-6 quando comparado aos grupo de animais nefrectomizados tratados com veículo. Candesartan e alisquireno reduziram IL-1β, enquanto somente candesartan diminuiu o TGF-β e somente alisquireno aumentou a IL-10. Conclusão: Enalapril, candesartan e alisquireno apresentaram efeitos similares em relação à melhora da função renal e redução da PAM e dos níveis urinários de IL-6 em ratos com DRC. Por outro lado, o perfil de citocinas diferiu de acordo com o tratamento, sugerindo que diferentes mecanismos sejam desencadeados em resposta ao local de bloqueio do SRA.

Histologic and inflammatory lamellar changes in horses with oligofructose-induced laminitis treated with a CXCR1/2 antagonist / Alterações histológicas e inflamatórias no tecido laminar de equinos submetidos ao modelo de laminite por oligofrutose e tratados com um antagonista para CXCR1/2

With the hypothesis that blocking chemokine signaling can ameliorate acute laminitis, the aim was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of intravenous DF1681B, a selective antagonist for CXCR1 and CXCR2 (chemokine receptors), in an oligofructose equine laminitis model. To twelve mixed breed clinically healthy hoses with no previous history of hoof-related lameness was administered oligofructose (10g/kg given by nasogastric tube) and divided into two groups: treated (intravenous DF1681B at 30mg/kg 6, 12, 18, and 24h after oligofructose) and non-treated groups. Laminar biopsies were performed before and 12, 36, and 72h after administering oligofructose. Samples were stained with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and scored from 0 to 6 according to epidermal cell and basal membrane changes. The IL-1β, IL-6, and CXCL1 RNA expressions were determined by RT-PCR. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used to compare times within each group (P<0.05). The PAS grades and IL-1β and IL-6 RNA expression increased in the non-treated group, but remained constant in the treated horses. In conclusion, DF1681B therapy reduced laminar inflammation and epidermal deterioration in treated horses. CXCR1/2 blockage should be considered therapeutically for equine acute laminitis.

A expressão de quimiocinas e a infiltração de leucócitos no tecido laminar são característicos de laminite aguda de equinos. O presente estudo avaliou o efeito terapêutico da administração intravenosa de DF1681B , um antagonista seletivo para CXCR1 e CXCR2 (receptores de quimiocinas), em um modelo de laminite equina por oligofrutose. Utilizaram-se doze cavalos sem raça definida, compreendendo quatro machos e oito fêmeas não gestantes, com idade (média ±SD) 7±3,5 anos, pesando 305±35kg e com uma pontuação média de condição corporal de 5±1/9. Os indivíduos elegíveis eram clinicamente saudáveis, sem história prévia de claudicação relacionados ao casco. Após administração de oligofrutose (10g/kg por sonda nasogástrica), os animais foram divididos em dois grupos: tratado (30mg/kg de DF1681B intravenosa, 6, 12, 18 e 24h após a oligofrutose) e não tratado, que recebeu placebo. Biópsias laminares foram realizadas antes e 12, 36 e 72h após a administração de oligofrutose. As amostras foram coradas com ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS) e classificadas de 0-6 de acordo com alterações nas células epidérmicas e na membrana basal. Também determinaram-se as expressões gênicas de IL-1β, CXCL1 e IL-6 por RT-PCR. Testes paramétricos e não paramétricos foram utilizados para comparar os momentos em cada grupo (P<0,05). Estatisticamente, os graus PAS e as expressões de IL-1β e IL-6 se elevaram após a indução no grupo não tratado, mas se mantiveram constantes nos cavalos tratados. Em conclusão, a terapia por DF1681B reduziu a inflamação laminar e a deterioração epidérmica em equinos submetidos ao modelo de intoxicação por oligofructose. O bloqueio de receptores CXCR1/2 deve ser considerado como uma opção terapêutica para prevenção da laminite aguda de equinos.

Serial measurement of the circulating levels of tumour necrosis factor and its soluble receptors 1 and 2 for monitoring leprosy patients during multidrug treatment

Leprosy is an infectious and contagious spectral disease accompanied by a series of immunological events triggered by the host response to the aetiologic agent, Mycobacterium leprae . The induction and maintenance of the immune/inflammatory response in leprosy are linked to multiple cell interactions and soluble factors, primarily through the action of cytokines. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the serum levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and its soluble receptors (sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2) in leprosy patients at different stages of multidrug treatment (MDT) in comparison with non-infected individuals and to determine their role as putative biomarkers of the severity of leprosy or the treatment response. ELISA was used to measure the levels of these molecules in 30 healthy controls and 37 leprosy patients at the time of diagnosis and during and after MDT. Our results showed increases in the serum levels of TNF-α and sTNF-R2 in infected individuals in comparison with controls. The levels of TNF-α, but not sTNF-R2, decreased with treatment. The current results corroborate previous reports of elevated serum levels of TNF-α in leprosy and suggest a role for sTNF-R2 in the control of this cytokine during MDT.

Avaliação clínica e hematológica de equinos submetidos ao modelo de laminite por oligofructose, tratados ou não com um agente antagonista de receptores CXCR1/2 / Clinical and hematological evaluation of horses subjected to oligofructose-induced laminitis treated or not with a CXCR1/2 antagonist

O recrutamento de leucócitos aos tecidos é uma parte essencial da resposta imune inata e esse processo de forma desregulada pode resultar em lesões aos tecidos. Assim, a infiltração de leucócitos tem sido implicada na patogênese de laminite aguda em equinos. Os objetivos dessa pesquisa foram verificar a ação da ICXCR1/2 sobre os sinais clínicos e parâmetros hematológicos de cavalos com laminite induzida por oligofrutose. Doze equinos receberam oligofrutose (10g/kg de peso vivo PO) no tempo 0 e foram divididos em 2 grupos: tratados (30mg/kg p.v. ICXCR1/2 IV, nos tempos 6, 12, 18 e 24 h) e não tratados. As frequências cardíaca e respiratória, temperatura retal, coloração de membranas mucosas, presença e intensidade de pulso digital, sensibilidade ao exame com pinça de casco e grau de claudicação segundo Obel, bem como parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos (hemograma e as concentrações sanguíneas de glicose, uréia, creatinina, ALT, AST, FA, GGT, bilirrubina total e proteína total) foram aferidos nos tempos 0, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 60 e 72 horas . O modelo usando oligofructose foi adequado para induzir sinais de laminite e de sinais de endotoxemia, como diarreia, febre e leucocitose em cavalos sem raça definida de origem nacional. Também, não foram observadas quaisquer reações adversas clínicas ou hematológicas relacionadas ao uso intravenoso do antagonista de CXCR1/2, contudo essa substância, quando administrada na dose de 30mg/kg de peso vivo, 4 vezes ao dia, por 4 aplicações, não foi capaz de prevenir os sinais clínicos e as alterações hematológicas causadas pela administração de oligofructose nos equinos deste estudo.

Leucocytes recruitment to tissues is an essential part of the innate immune response and an unregulated process can result in tissue damage. Thus, leucocytes infiltration has been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute laminitis. The objectives of this stud were to determine the effect of an antagonist for CXCR1/2, a chemokine receptor for neutrophils attraction on clinical signs and hematological parameters in horses given oligofructose to induce laminitis. Twelve horses were given oligofructose (10g/kg bw PO) in time 0 and divided into two groups: one treated (30mg/kg bw. ICXCR1/2 IV, times 6, 12, 18 e 24 h) and the other not treated. Cardiac and respiratory frequency, rectal temperature, mucous membrane colour, digital pulse, hoof sensitivity and Obel's grade of lameness were recorded. Values for RBC, WBC and blood glucose, BUN, creatinin, ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, GGT, total bilirubin and serum protein concentrations were measured on times 0, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 60 e 72 h. All the horses given oligofructose developed signs of endotoxemia like diarrhea, fever and leukocytosis and laminitis. Also, CXCR1/2 antagonist treatment did not cause any adverse effects. However, this substance when injected intravenously (30mg/kg) 6/6 hours in 4 applications, did not ameliorate clinical and hematological signs of endotoxemia.

Blockade of CXCR1/2 chemokine receptors protects against brain damage in ischemic stroke in mice

OBJECTIVE: Ischemic stroke may result from transient or permanent reductions of regional cerebral blood flow. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils have been described as the earliest inflammatory cells to arrive in ischemic tissue. CXCR1/2 receptors are involved in the recruitment of these cells. However, the contribution of these chemokine receptors during transient brain ischemia in mice remains poorly understood. In this work, we investigated the effects of reparixin, an allosteric antagonist of CXCR1/2 receptors, in a model of middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion in mice. METHODS: C57BL/6J male mice treated with reparixin or vehicle were subjected to a middle cerebral artery occlusion procedure 1 h after the treatment. Ninety minutes after ischemia induction, the monofilament that prevented blood flow was removed. Twenty-four hours after the reperfusion procedure, behavioral changes, including motor signs, were analyzed with the SmithKline/Harwell/lmperial College/Royal Hospital/Phenotype Assessment (SHIRPA) battery. The animals were sacrificed, and brain tissue was removed for histological and biochemical analyses. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, neutrophil infiltration was estimated by myeloperoxidase activity and the inflammatory cytokine IL-iβ was measured by ELISA. RESULTS: Pre-treatment with reparixin reduced the motor deficits observed in this model of ischemia and reperfusion. Myeloperoxidase activity and IL-iβ were reduced in the reparixin-treated group. Histological analysis revealed that ischemic injury was also attenuated by reparixin pre-treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the blockade of the CXCR1/2 receptors by reparixin promotes neuroprotective effects by reducing the levels of polymorphonuclear infiltration in the brain and the tissue damage associated with middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion.

Inflamação na doença renal crônica: papel de citocinas / Inflammation in chronic kidney disease: the role of cytokines

A doença renal crônica (DRC) é um grave problema de saúde pública cuja prevalência tem aumentado nos últimos anos. Apresenta caráter progressivo e está associada à elevada morbidade e mortalidade. Inúmeros fatores estão associados à instalação e progressão da DRC, tais como obesidade, hipertensão arterial e diabetes mellitus. Além desses fatores, existem evidências de inflamação na fisiopatologia da DRC. Diversas citocinas e quimiocinas têm sido detectadas no plasma e urina de pacientes em estágios precoces da DRC e também relacionadas às complicações da doença. A expressão desses mediadores e a lesão renal sofrem interferência de fármacos como inibidores de enzima conversora de angiotensina (ECA), estatinas e antagonistas de receptores de citocinas. A modulação da resposta imuno-inflamatória pode se tornar alvo para tratamento da DRC. O objetivo deste artigo de revisão foi resumir as evidências científicas do pa-pel da inflamação na DRC, destacando-se os efeitos de citocinas e quimiocinas.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious public health problem whose prevalence has increased in the last few years. Its progression is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Several factors are associated with the onset and progression of CKD, such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Beyond these factors, there is evidence of a pathophysiological role for inflammation in CKD. Several cytokines and chemokines have been detected in the plasma and urine of patients at early stages of CKD, and have also been related to CKD complications. The expression of these mediators and renal injury may be influenced by drugs such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, statins and antagonists of cytokine receptors. Modulation of the immune-inflammatory response can become a target for CKD treatment. The aim of this study was to review the scientific evidence on the role of inflammation in CKD, especially the effects of cytokines and chemokines.

Soluble inflammatory markers as predictors of virological response in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection treated with interferon-α plus ribavirin

The host immune response plays an important role in viral clearance in patients who are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and are treated with interferon and ribavirin. Activation of the immune system involves the release of pro and anti-inflammatory molecules that can be measured in plasma samples. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between pretreatment plasma levels of chemokines and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptors (sTNF-R) and the virological response in treated patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Forty-one chronically-infected HCV patients that were being treated with interferon-α (IFN-α) plus ribavirin were included in the study. Socio-demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected and pretreatment plasma levels of chemokine CCL2, CCL3, CCL11, CCL24, chemokine CXCL9, CXCL10, sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2 were measured. The virological response was assessed at treatment week 12, at the end of treatment and 24 weeks after treatment. Pretreatment CXCL10 levels were significantly higher in patients without an early virological response (EVR) or sustained virological response (SVR) compared to responders [512.9 pg/mL vs. 179.1 pg/mL (p = 0.011) and 289.9 pg/mL vs. 142.7 pg/mL (p = 0.045), respectively]. The accuracy of CXCL10 as a predictor of the absence of EVR and SVR was 0.79 [confidence interval (CI) 95 percent: 0.59-0.99] and 0.69 (CI 95 percent: 0.51-0.87), respectively. Pretreatment plasma levels of the other soluble inflammatory markers evaluated were not associated with a treatment response. Pretreatment CXCL10 levels were predictive of both EVR and SVR to IFN-α and ribavirin and may be useful in the evaluation of candidates for therapy.

Plasma levels of procalcitonin and eight additional inflammatory molecules in febrile neutropenic patients

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the association between different inflammatory markers and specific clinical endpoints in patients with febrile neutropenia. METHOD: We prospectively evaluated the expression of procalcitonin (PCT), interleukin 8 (IL-8), induced protein-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a), two soluble TNF-a receptors (sTNF-R I and sTNF-R II), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha, and eotaxin in 37 episodes of febrile neutropenia occurring in 31 hospitalized adult onco-hematologic patients. Peripheral blood samples were collected in the morning at inclusion (day of fever onset) and on days 1, 3, and 7 after the onset of fever. Approximately 2-3 ml of plasma was obtained from each blood sample and stored at -80°C. RESULTS: The sTNF-R II level at inclusion (day 1), the PCT level on the day of fever onset, and the change (day 3 - day 1) in the IL-8 and eotaxin levels were significantly higher in patients who died during the 28-day follow-up. A requirement for early adjustment of antimicrobial treatment was associated with higher day 3 levels of IL-8, sTNF-R II, PCT, and MCP-1. CONCLUSION: Procalcitonin, sTNF-R II, IL-8, MCP-1, and eotaxin could potentially be used to assess the risk of death and the requirement for early adjustment of antimicrobial treatment in febrile, neutropenic onco-hematologic patients. The levels of the other markers showed no association with any of the evaluated endpoints.

Seric chemokines and chemokine receptors in eosinophils during acute human schistosomiasis mansoni

The recruitment of circulating eosinophils by chemokines and chemokine receptors plays an important role in the inflammation process in acute human schistosomiasis. Our main focus has been on the plasma chemokines (CXCL8/CCL2/CCL3/CCL24) and chemokine receptors (CCR2/CCR3/CCR5/CXCR1/CXCR2/CXCR3/CXCR4) expressed by circulating eosinophils from acute Schistosoma mansoni infected patients (ACT). Our studies compared ACT patients and healthy individuals as a control group. Our major findings demonstrated a plethora of chemokine secretion with significantly increased secretion of all chemokines analysed in the ACT group. Although no differences were detected for beta-chemokine receptors (CCR2, CCR3 and CCR5) or alpha-chemokine receptors (CXCR3 and CXCR4), a significantly lower frequency of CXCR1+ and CXCR2+ eosinophils in the ACT group was observed. The association between chemokines and their chemokine receptors revealed that acutely infected schistosome patients displaying decreased plasma levels of CCL24 are the same patients who presented enhanced secretion of CCL3, as well as increased expression of both the CCR5 and CXCR3 chemokine receptors. These findings suggest that CCL24 may influence the kinetics of chemokines and their receptors and eosinophils recruitment during human acute schistosomiasis mansoni.

Citocinas e quimiocinas no transplante renal / Cytokines and chemokines in renal transplantation

O transplante renal é a melhor modalidade de terapia renal substitutiva até o momento. Infelizmente a sobrevida do enxerto é interrompida pelos episódios de rejeição aguda ou mesmo de fibrose intersticial atrofia tubular. A dosagem de quimiocinas e citrocinas urinárias como ferramenta alternativa para o diagnóstico dessas complicações tem sido relatada nos últimos anos. Estas substâncias estão sabidamente relacionadas com os mecanismos imunoinflamatórios do transplante renal podendo ser detectadas no tecido renal no plasma e na urina de pacientes transplantados. Drogas anti-inflamatórias inibidores do sistema renina angiotensina e alguns antagonistas de receptores de citocinas ainda utilizados em nível experimental podem interferir com a expressão desses mediadores do sistema imune e por conseguinte alterar a evolução do transplante renal. Neste sentido pretende-se neste artigo fazer uma revisão dos estudos sobre a mensuração de citocinas quimiocinas e dos seus receptores na urina no plasma e no tecido renal de pacientes transplantados no intuito de avaliar uma possível associação entre os níveis desses mediadores e as complicações do transplante renal e sobrevida do enxerto.

Renal transplantation is the best modality of renal replacement therapy so far. Unfortunately, graft survival is interrupted by episodes of acute rejection or tubular atrophy of interstitial fibrosis. The measurement of urinary chemokines and citrocinas as an alternative tool for the diagnosis of these complications have been reported in recent years. These substances are known to be related to immunoinflammatory mechanisms of renal transplantation can be detected in renal tissue in plasma and urine of transplant patients. Anti-inflammatory drugs inhibiting the renin angiotensin receptor antagonists and some cytokines also used on an experimental level can interfere with the expression of these mediators of the immune system and thus alter the course of renal transplantation. In this sense we intend to make this article a review of studies on the measurement of cytokines chemokines and their receptors in the plasma and urine in the renal tissue of patients transplanted in order to evaluate a possible association between the levels of these mediators and the complications of the transplant and renal graft survival.

Chagas disease, adipose tissue and the metabolic syndrome

Trypanosoma cruzi infection of the adipose tissue of mice triggers the local expression of inflammatory mediators and a reduction in the expression of the adipokine adiponectin. T. cruzi can be detected in adipose tissue by PCR 300 days post-infection. Infection of cultured adipocytes results in increased expression of cytokines and chemokines and a reduction in the expression of adiponectin and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ³, both of which are negative regulators of inflammation. Infection also results in the upregulation of cyclin D1, the Notch pathway, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase and a reduction in the expression of caveolin-1. Thus, T. cruzi infection of cultured adipocytes leads to an upregulation of the inflammatory process. Since adiponectin null mice have a cardiomyopathic phenotype, it is possible that the reduction in adiponectin contributes to the pathogenesis of chagasic cardiomyopathy. Adipose tissue may serve as a reservoir for T. cruzi from which parasites can become reactivated during periods of immunosuppression. T. cruzi infection of mice often results in hypoglycemia. In contrast, hyperglycemia as observed in diabetes results in increased parasitemia and mortality. Adipose tissue is an important target tissue of T. cruzi and the infection of this tissue is associated with a profound impact on systemic metabolism, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy aggravates liver reperfusion injury in rats / Oxigenoterapia hiperbárica agrava lesão de reperfusão hepática em ratos

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HO) therapy in the protection against liver ischemia/reperfusion injury. METHODS: Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of eight animals each: group A - laparotomy and liver manipulation, group B - liver ischemia and reperfusion, group C - HO pretreatment for 60 min followed by liver ischemia and reperfusion, and group D - pretreatment with ambient air at 2.5 absolute atmospheres for 60 min followed by liver ischemia and reperfusion. Plasma was assayed for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Intra-arterial blood pressure was monitored continuously. Myeloperoxidase activity in the liver and lung was assessed 30 min after reperfusion. RESULTS: Plasma AST, ALT and LDH increased after reperfusion in all animals. Plasma ALT values and myeloperoxidase activity in the liver parenchyma were higher in HO-pretreated animals than in groups A, B and D. HO had a negative hemodynamic effect during liver reperfusion. CONCLUSION: Liver preconditioning with hyperbaric oxygen therapy aggravated liver ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats as demonstrated by plasma ALT and liver myeloperoxidase activity.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da oxigenoterapia hiperbárica (OH) como método preventivo da lesão de isquemia e reperfusão (LIR) do fígado. MÉTODOS: Trinta e dois ratos machos Wistar foram distribuídos em quatro grupos de oito animais cada: A - laparotomia e manipulação hepática, B - isquemia e reperfusão hepática, C - pré-tratamento com OH por 60 minutos seguido de isquemia e reperfusão hepática e D - pré-tratamento com ar ambiente a 2,5 atmosferas absolutas por 60 minuto e isquemia e reperfusão hepática. Dosagens seriadas de AST, ALT e DHL foram realizadas. A pressão intra arterial foi monitorizada continuamente. O grau de infiltração leucocitária no fígado e pulmões foi inferido pela dosagem de mieloperoxidade tecidual. RESULTADOS: O nível sérico de AST, ALT e DHL aumentou em todos animais. Os animais expostos a OH apresentaram níveis de ALT e infiltração leucocitária hepática maior que os demais. A OH apresentou efeitos hemodinâmicos negativos durante a reperfusão hepática. CONCLUSÃO: O pré-condicionamento hepático por oxigenoteraia hiperbárica agrava a lesão de isquemia e reperfusão hepática em ratos.

Imunopatogênese da malária cerebral / Immunopathogenesis of cerebral malaria

A malária cerebral é a mais grave manifestação ocasionada pela infecção pelo Plasmodium falciparum, sendo responsável por elevadas taxas de mortalidade no continente africano. Apresenta mecanismos imunopatogênicos complexos, ainda não totalmente elucidados. Devido às dificuldades em acompanhar casos humanos e a limitada possibilidade de examinar os processos patológicos, alguns modelos experimentais de MC foram desenvolvidos. O modelo experimental utilizando roedores é bem aceito no meio científico e a grande diversidade de linhagens de camundongos associada à infecção por diferentes espécies de Plasmodium tem contribuído para elucidar aspectos envolvidos na patogênese da doença. O entendimento dos mecanismos imunopatogênicos é um pré-requisito necessário para a elaboração de novas terapias para o tratamento seguro e efetivo desta manifestação.

The cerebral malaria is the most serious manifestation caused for the infection by Plasmodium falciparum, being responsible for high rates of mortality in the African continent. It presents a complex immunopathogenics mechanisms, still not total elucidated. Due to the difficulties in following human cases and the limited possibility to examine pathological processes, some experimental models of CM had been developed. The experimental model using rodents is well accepted in the scientific way and the great diversity of strains of mice associated to the infection by different species of Plasmodium has contributed to elucidate some aspects involved in pathogenesis of the illness. A better understanding of the immunopathogenics mechanisms is a prerequisite necessary for the elaboration of new therapies for a safe and effective treatment of this manifestation.

Análise de receptores de quimiocinas na superfície de leucócitos circulantes de indivíduos infectados pelo Mycobacterium leprae: resultados preliminares / Analysis of chemokine receptors on the surface of circulating leukocytes of individuals infected with Mycobacterium leprae: preliminary results

Neste estudo, a expressão de receptores de quimiocinas na superfície dos leucócitos circulantes foi feita pela citometria de fluxo. Houve aumento da porcentagem de linfócitos CCR2+CD4+ no sangue periférico dos pacientes com hanseníase. Este resultado preliminar sugeriu alteração do perfil dos receptores de quimiocinas desses pacientes.

In this study, the expression of chemokine receptors on the surface of circulating leukocytes was determined using flow cytometry. An increase in the percentage of CCR2+CD4+ lymphocytes was observed in the peripheral blood of leprosy patients. This preliminary data suggests that alterations occur in the chemokine receptor profile of these patients.

Avaliação da expressão de interleucina 1 beta (IL-1 beta) e antagonista do receptor de interleucina 1 (IL-1Ra) em pacientes com hanseníase / Evaluation of the expression of interleukin 1 beta(IL-1 beta) and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in leprosy patients

A hanseníase é uma doença infectocontagiosa espectral que acompanha-se por uma série de eventos imunológicos desencadeados pela resposta do hospedeiro frente ao agente etiológico, o Mycobacterium leprae. Evidências sugerem que a indução e manutenção da resposta imune/inflamatória na hanseníase estão vinculadas a interações de múltiplas células e fatores solúveis, particularmente através da ação de citocinas. Nesse estudo, foram mensurados níveis de IL-1β e IL-1Ra de 37 casos novos de hanseníase acompanhados ao longo do tratamento e 30 controles sadios pelo teste ELISA. A coleta de sangue periférico foi realizada em quatro tempos para os casos de hanseníase (pré-tratamento com PQT, 2ª dose, 6ª dose e pós-PQT) e em único momento para os controles. Na comparação dos níveis das moléculas de casos no pré-PQT e controles, houve diferença estatisticamente significativa somente para IL-1β. Nossos resultados sugerem a participação dessa citocina no processo imune/inflamatório.

Leprosy is an infectious and contagious spectral disease accompanied by a series of immunological events triggered by the host's response to the etiologic agent, Mycobacterium leprae. Evidence suggests that the induction and maintenance of the immune/inflammatory response in leprosy are linked to multiple cell interactions and soluble factors, mainly through the action of cytokines. The ELISA test was used to measure the levels of IL-1β and IL-1Ra in 37 new leprosy patients followed-up during treatment and 30 healthy controls. Peripheral blood was collected four times during the treatment of leprosy patients (MDT pretreatment, 2nd dose, 6th dose and post-MDT), and only once from the controls. The comparison of molecular levels in pre-MDT patients and controls showed a statistically significant difference for IL-1β. The results suggest the participation of this cytokine in the genesis of the immune/inflammatory process.

GMOs: building the future on the basis of past experience

Biosafety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their derivatives is still a major topic in the agenda of government and societies worldwide. The aim of this review is to bring into light that data that supported the decision taken back in 1998 as an exercise to stimulate criticism from the scientific community for upcoming discussions and to avoid emotional and senseless arguments that could jeopardize future development in the field. It must be emphasized that Roundup Ready® soybean is just one example of how biotechnology can bring in significant advances for society, not only through increased productivity, but also with beneficial environmental impact, thereby allowing more rational use of agricultural pesticides for improvement of the soil conditions. The adoption of agricultural practices with higher yield will also allow better distribution of income among small farmers. New species of genetically modified plants will soon be available and society should be capable of making decisions in an objective and well-informed manner, through collegiate bodies that are qualified in all aspects of biosafety and environmental impact.

A biosegurança dos organismos geneticamente modificados e seus derivados é um dos principais tópicos na agenda de discussões de governos e sociedades. O objetivo desta revisão é reviver os dados científicos que fundamentaram a decisão de liberação comercial da soja transgênica resistente ao Glifosate com o intuito de estimular uma posição crítica da comunidade científica para as próximas discussões no tema. A soja em questão é apenas um exemplo de como a biotecnologia pode contribuir para avanços na produtividade e na preservação do meio ambiente, com ganho de produtividade e lucratividade para agricultores em todas as escalas. Novas variedades trangênicas estarão na pauta de discussões que deverão estar fundamentadas em dados científicos objetivos, evitando argumentos emocionais que poderão, assim como no passado recente, prejudicar o desenvolvimento científico e tecnológico da agricultura.

The role of chemokines in Schistosoma mansoni infection: insights from human disease and murine models

Chemokines are a superfamily of low-molecular-weight cytokines that were initially described for their chemoattractant activity. It is now clear chemokines have several other activities that modulate immune processes. More than 50 chemokines ligands and at least 19 receptors have been described to date. Depending on the number of N-terminal cysteine residues, chemokines are grouped in the subfamilies CXC, CC, C or CX3C. A growing body of evidence suggests a role for chemokines in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases. Our studies involving mice and humans infected with Schistosoma mansoni suggest an important role of the chemokine CCL3 and its receptors (CCR1 and CCR5) in the pathogenesis of severe schistosomiasis. We suggest that the differential activation of CCR1 or CCR5 during the course of schistosomiasis may dictate the outcome of the disease.