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Neutrophilic granulocytes (NG) are the main drivers of pathological inflammation in COVID-19. Objective. To specify the mechanisms of immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 based on a comparative immunological study of the number and phenotype of CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63- and CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63+ subsets with an assessment of their effector functions against changing profile of NG-associated cytokines IL-8, IL-18, IL-17A, VEGF-A, IFNalpha, and IFNgamma. Patients and methods. In patients with moderate-to-severe and severe COVID-19, we determined IL-1beta, TNFalpha, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, IL-17A, VEGF-A, IFNalpha, and IFNgamma (ELISA), the phenotype of CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63- and CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63+ subsets, NF-kappaB-NG (CYTOMICS FC500), phagocytically active NG (%), neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), NG in apoptosis, and the activity of NADPH oxidase. Results. In COVID-19 against the background of IFNalpha and IFNgamma production blockade and high levels of NG-associated IL-8, IL-18, IL-17A, VEGF-A, a reduction in the number of mature and functionally active CD16brightSD62LbrightCD11bbrightCD63-NG subsets was revealed, as well as an increase in the number of CD16dimSD62LdimSD11bbrightCD63-NG subsets with an immunosuppressive phenotype and CD16brightSD62LbrightSD11bbrightCD63bright-NG subsets with high cytotoxic activity and ability to form NETs, a decrease in the percentage of phagocytically active NG and an increase in the activity of NADPH oxidase, NETs, and NG in apoptosis. Conclusion. IFNalpha deficiency provokes a hyperergic response of NG-associated cytokines, which leads to the formation of uncontrolled immune inflammation involving NG subsets with an immunosuppressive and cytotoxic phenotype, exacerbating the course of COVID-19. The use of recombinant IFNalpha-2b with antioxidants (Viferon) in the early stages of the disease can help to restore immune homeostasis, normalize the level of NG-associated cytokines, reduce NERTs, and achieve good clinical efficacy.Copyright © 2022, Dynasty Publishing House. All rights reserved.
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Objective To explore the core targets and important pathways of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) induced atherosclerosis (AS) progression from the perspective of immune inflammation, so as to predict the potential prevention and treatment of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Methods Microarray data were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and AS patients, and the "limmar" and "Venn" packages were used to screen out the common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) genes in both diseases. The gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed on the common DEGs to annotate their functions and important pathways. The two gene sets were scored for immune cells and immune function to assess the level of immune cell infiltration. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by STRING database, and the CytoHubba plug-in of Cytoscape was used to identify the hub genes. Two external validation datasets were introduced to validate the hub genes and obtain the core genes. Immuno-infiltration analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed on the core genes respectively. Finally the potential TCM regulating the core genes were predicted by Coremine Medical database. Results A total of 7898 genes related to COVID-19, 471 genes related to AS progression;And 51 common DEGs, including 32 highly expressed genes and 19 low expressed genes were obtained. GO and KEGG analysis showed that common DEGs, which were mainly localized in cypermethrin-encapsulated vesicles, platelet alpha particles, phagocytic vesicle membranes and vesicles, were involved in many biological processes such as myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)-dependent Toll-like receptor signaling pathway transduction, interleukin-8 (IL-8) production and positive regulation, IL-6 production and positive regulation to play a role in regulating nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity, Toll-like receptor binding and lipopeptide and glycosaminoglycan binding through many biological pathways, including Toll-like receptor signaling pathways, neutrophil extracellular trap formation, complement and coagulation cascade reactions. The results of immune infiltration analysis demonstrated the state of immune microenvironment of COVID-19 and AS. A total of 5 hub genes were obtained after screening, among which Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), cluster of differentiation 163 (CD163) and complement C1q subcomponent subunit B (C1QB) genes passed external validation as core genes. The core genes showed strong correlation with immune process and inflammatory response in both immune infiltration analysis and GSEA enrichment analysis. A total of 35 TCMs, including Chuanxiong (Chuanxiong Rhizoma), Taoren (Persicae Semen), Danggui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix), Huangqin (Scutellariae Radix), Pugongying (Taraxaci Herba), Taizishen (Pseudostellariae Radix), Huangjing (Polygonati Rhizoma), could be used as potential therapeutic agents. Conclusion TLR2, CD163 and C1QB were the core molecules of SARS-CoV-2-mediated immune inflammatory response promoting AS progression, and targeting predicted herbs were potential drugs to slow down AS progression in COVID-19 patients.Copyright © 2023 Editorial Office of Chinese Traditional and Herbal Drugs. All rights reserved.
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History: Twenty-two year old male basic trainee was brought to the ED after collapsing during a routine ruck march. At mile 8/12, soldier was noted to develop an unsteady gate and had witnessed loss of consciousness. A rectal core temperature was obtained and noted to be >107degreeF. Cooling initiated with ice sheets and EMS was activated. On arrival to the ED, patient demonstrated confusion and persistently elevated core temperatures despite ice sheeting, chilled saline and cold water bladder lavage. Cooling measures were discontinued after patient achieved euthermia in the ED;however, his temperatures subsequently spiked>103degreeF. Given rebound hyperthermia, an endovascular cooling (EVC) device was placed in the right femoral vein and patient was transferred to the ICU. Multiple attempts to place EVC device on standby were unsuccessful with subsequent rebound hyperthermia. Prolonged cooling was required. Physical Exam: VS: HR 121, BP 85/68, RR 22 SpO2 100% RA, Temp 102.4degreeF Gen: young adult male, NAD, shivering, A&Ox2 (person and place only) HEENT: Scleral anicteric, conjunctiva non-injected, moist mucus membranes Neck: Supple, no LAD Chest: CTAB, no wheezes/rales/rhonchi CV: tachycardia, regular rhythm, normal S1, S2 without murmurs, rubs, gallops ABD: NABS, soft/non-distended, no guarding or rebound EXT: No LE edema, tenderness SKIN: blisters with broad erythematous bases on bilateral heels Neuro: CN II-XII grossly intact, 5/5 strength in all extremities. Differential Diagnosis: 216. Septic Shock 217. Hypothalamic Stroke 218. Exertional Heat Stroke (EHS) 219. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome 220. Thyroid Storm Test Results: CBC: 18.2>14.5/40.6<167 CMP: 128/3.5 88/1831/2.7<104, AST 264, ALT 80, Ca 8.8 Lactate: 7.1 CK: 11 460 Myoglobin: 18 017 TSH: 3.16 CXR: No acute cardiopulmonary process Blood Cx: negative x2 CSF Cx: Negative COVID/Influenza/EBV: Negative Brain MRI: wnl. Final Diagnosis: Exertional Heat Stroke. Discussion(s): No EVC protocols exist for the management of EHS or rebound/refractory hyperthermia. As a result, the protocol used for this patient was adapted from post-cardiac arrest cooling protocols. It is unclear if this adapted protocol contributed to his delayed cooling and rebound hyperthermia as it was not intended for this patient demographic/ pathophysiology. Furthermore, despite initiating empiric antibiotics upon admission, delayed recognition and tailored therapy for his bilateral ankle cellulitis may have contributed to the difficulty in achieving euthermia. In summary, more research needs to be done to evaluate and develop an EVC protocol for EHS. Outcome(s): Euthermia was achieved and maintained after 36 hours of continuous EVC, at which point it was discontinued. His CK, AST/ALT, creatinine and sodium down-trended after discontinuation of EVC. Patient's antibiotics were transitioned to an oral formulation for treatment of ankle cellulitis and he was prepared for discharge. He was discharged with regular follow-up with the Fort Benning Heat Clinic. Follow-Up: After discharge, patient had regularly scheduled visits with the Fort Benning Heat Clinic. His typical lab markers for exertional heat stroke were regularly monitored. He had continued resolution of his Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury and hyponatremia with typical treatment. Soldier returned to duty after 10 weeks of close monitoring and rehabilitation.
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Neutrophilic granulocytes (NG) are the main drivers of pathological inflammation in COVID-19. Objective. To specify the mechanisms of immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 based on a comparative immunological study of the number and phenotype of CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63- and CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63+ subsets with an assessment of their effector functions against changing profile of NG-associated cytokines IL-8, IL-18, IL-17A, VEGF-A, IFNalpha, and IFNgamma. Patients and methods. In patients with moderate-to-severe and severe COVID-19, we determined IL-1beta, TNFalpha, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, IL-17A, VEGF-A, IFNalpha, and IFNgamma (ELISA), the phenotype of CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63- and CD16+SD62L+CD11b+CD63+ subsets, NF-kappaB-NG (CYTOMICS FC500), phagocytically active NG (%), neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), NG in apoptosis, and the activity of NADPH oxidase. Results. In COVID-19 against the background of IFNalpha and IFNgamma production blockade and high levels of NG-associated IL-8, IL-18, IL-17A, VEGF-A, a reduction in the number of mature and functionally active CD16brightSD62LbrightCD11bbrightCD63-NG subsets was revealed, as well as an increase in the number of CD16dimSD62LdimSD11bbrightCD63-NG subsets with an immunosuppressive phenotype and CD16brightSD62LbrightSD11bbrightCD63bright-NG subsets with high cytotoxic activity and ability to form NETs, a decrease in the percentage of phagocytically active NG and an increase in the activity of NADPH oxidase, NETs, and NG in apoptosis. Conclusion. IFNalpha deficiency provokes a hyperergic response of NG-associated cytokines, which leads to the formation of uncontrolled immune inflammation involving NG subsets with an immunosuppressive and cytotoxic phenotype, exacerbating the course of COVID-19. The use of recombinant IFNalpha-2b with antioxidants (Viferon) in the early stages of the disease can help to restore immune homeostasis, normalize the level of NG-associated cytokines, reduce NERTs, and achieve good clinical efficacy.Copyright © 2022, Dynasty Publishing House. All rights reserved.
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Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a critical metabolite that acts as a cofactor in energy metabolism, and serves as a cosubstrate for non-redox NAD+-dependent enzymes, including sirtuins, CD38 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases. NAD+ metabolism can regulate functionality attributes of innate and adaptive immune cells and contribute to inflammatory responses. Thus, the manipulation of NAD+ bioavailability can reshape the courses of immunological diseases. Here, we review the basics of NAD+ biochemistry and its roles in the immune response, and discuss current challenges and the future translational potential of NAD+ research in the development of therapeutics for inflammatory diseases, such as COVID-19.
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Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a pathogenic coronavirus that emerged in late 2019, resulting in coronavirus disease (COVID-19). COVID-19 can be potentially fatal among a certain group of patients. Older age and underlying medical illness are the major risk factors for COVID-19-related fatal respiratory dysfunction. The reason for the pathogenicity of COVID-19 in the older age group remains unclear. Factors, such as coagulopathy, cytokine storm, metabolic disrup-tion, and impaired T cell function, may worsen the symptoms of the disease. Recent literature has indicat-ed that viral infections are particularly associated with a high degree of oxidative stress and an imbalance of antioxidant response. Although pharmacological management has taken its place in reducing the severity of COVID-19, the antioxidants can serve as an adjunct therapy to protect an individual from oxidative damage triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection. In general, antioxidant enzymes counteract free radicals and prevent their formation. The exact functional role of antioxidant supplements in reducing disease symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection remains mostly unknown. In this review, the functional role of natural antioxidants in SARS-CoV-2 infection management is discussed in brief.Copyright © 2022 Bentham Science Publishers.
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Introduction: The molecular mechanisms linked to the pathology of severe COVID-19 and its outcomes are poorly described. Aim(s): To analyze the proteomic profile of bronchial aspirates (BAS) samples from critically ill COVID-19 patients in order to identify factors associated with the disease and its prognosis. Method(s): Multicenter study including 74 critically ill non-COVID-19 and COVID-19 patients. BAS was obtained by bronchoaspiration after invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) initiation. Proximity extension assay (PEA) technology was used for proteomic profiling. Random forest (RF) statistical models were used to predict the variable importance. Result(s): After adjusting for confounding factors, CST5, NADK, SRPK2 and TGF-alpha showed differences between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. Reduced levels of ENTPD2 and PTN were observed in non-survivors, even after adjustment. AGR2, NQO2, IL-1alpha, OSM and TRAIL, were the top five strongest predictors for ICU mortality and were used to build a prediction model. PTN (HR=4.00) ENTPD2 (HR=2.14) and the prediction model (HR=6.25) were associated with higher risk of death. In survivors, FCRL1, NTF4 and THOP1 correlated with lung function (DLCO levels) 3-months after hospital discharge. Similar findings were observed for Flt3L and THOP1 and radiological features (TSS). The proteins identified are expressed in immune and non-immune lung cells. A poor control of viral infectivity and an inappropriate reparative response seems to be linked to the disease and fatal outcomes, respectively. Conclusion(s): In critically ill COVID-19 patients, specific proteomic profiles are associated with the pathology, mortality and lung sequelae.
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Background: PRPS1 deficiency spectrum is an X-linked condition caused by pathogenic variants in PRPS1, which encodes for the PRPP enzyme involved in the purine synthesis pathway, among other metabolic pathways. Severely affected individuals, also known as Arts syndrome, have congenital sensorineural hearing loss, optic atrophy, developmental delays, ataxia, hypotonia, and recurrent infections. Infections often precipitate worsening of symptoms and many individuals pass away in childhood. Mildly to moderately affected individuals can have isolated hearing loss, also known as DFNX1, or hearing loss with later onset ataxia and optic neuropathy concerns, also known as CMTX5. Given the importance of PRPP in the role of purine synthesis as well as other cellular processes, including formation of NAD(P), supplementation of these pathways is a logical approach for these patients. 2 Arts syndrome patients were previously supplemented with S-adenosylmethionine, starting in mid-childhood, with improvement in infection severity and frequency, as well as stabilization of other symptoms. Recently another Arts syndrome patient was supplemented with S-adenosylmethionine and nicotinamide riboside, starting in early childhood, with improvement in infection frequency and developmental gains. Here we present a now 23 month old male patient with severe PRPS1 deficiency spectrum symptoms, who was started on S-adenosylmethionine and nicotinamide riboside supplementation. Result(s): This is a 23 month old male with developmental delay, retinal dystrophy, congenital bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, and hypotonia with a PRPS1 c.383A > T / p.Asp128Val likely pathogenic variant. He does not have a history of recurrent infections, however family reports relative isolation due to the Covid-19 pandemic. He sat unsupported at 10 months, crawled at 14 months, pulled to stand at 18 months, and is nonverbal. His uric acid testing was in the low range of normal. He had normal purine testing with low normal xanthine and hypoxanthine levels. At 19 months the patient started 20 mg/kg/d S-adenosylmethionine supplementation. At 20 months this was increased to 40 mg/kg/d S-adenosylmethionine and he started on 30 mg/kg/d nicotinamide riboside supplementation. Parents reported subjective improvement in strength and endurance with supplementation. He made significant developmental gains including walking with a walker. He had done well with occasional upper respiratory infections without regression in skills, worsening hypotonia, or increased respiratory needs. Unfortunately, very recently he had a cardiac arrest secondary to respiratory failure from rhinovirus/enterovirus and H. influzenzae pneumonia, for which he remains hospitalized at this time. Conclusion(s): This is the 4th reported patient with severe PRPS1 deficiency treated with S-adenosylmethionine supplementation and the 2nd reported patient treated with nicotinamide riboside supplementation. Both supplements have a limited side effect profile and have a biochemical basis for consideration in PRPS1 deficiency. He initially did well on supplementation with improvements in strength and endurance, as well as developmental gains, however his current trajectory remains to be seen. Unfortunately, NAD/NADP, ADP/ATP, and similar markers were unavailable to us and we plan to continue clinical monitoring on supplementation. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of S-adenosylmethionine and nicotinamide riboside supplementation in these patients.Copyright © 2023
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The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has given rise to a global pandemic, as well as a multitude of long-term sequelae that continue to perplex physicians around the world, including in the United States. Among the most common and impactful long-haul symptoms experienced by survivors is COVID-19 fatigue. This review will use long COVID-19, post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PCS), and PostAcute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) as synonymous terms to refer to the chronic symptomatology;chronic fatigue associated with PASC will be referred to as COVID-19 fatigue. While the knowledge and research on the exact pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the disease is still limited, parallels have been drawn between fatigue as a component of long COVID-19 and myalgic encephalomyelitis/ chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Current studies suggest applying principles of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment similar to those for ME/CFS in order to aid in managing chronic fatigue in COVID-19 survivors, particularly in the primary care setting. The osteopathic family physician can use the proposed pharmacologic agents, along with osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), as therapeutic modalities that can be tailored to each patient's unique case. Nevertheless, research on proven successful treatments is still scarce. For that reason, it is essential that COVID-19 fatigue is recognized early, especially since its longitudinal impacts may be debilitating for many. This review of the available literature on COVID-19 fatigue aims to help provide quality care and lessen the disease burden experienced by patients.Copyright © 2023 by the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians. All rights reserved.
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Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a very high mortality and an increased risk for progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Preclinical studies have identified that NAD+ augmentation as a potential strategy for the prevention and treatment of AKI. NAD+ is the final metabolized form of vitamin B3. A recent clinical study found that COVID-19 related AKI was associated with NAD+ biosynthetic impairment arising in the context of ischemic, inflammatory, or toxic kidney injury. Since there is no availability of vitamin B3 in the country, we tested if I.V. vitamin B complex (vitamin B1, B6 and B12) could improve renal recovery in patients with AKI. By oxidation, vitamin B6 through the pathway of pentose phosphate leads to the formation of NADPH (nicotamide adenine phosphate dinucleotide) an analog of NAD+. Method(s): We conducted randomized, blind, placebo-controlled study in hospitalized patients with AKI (NCT04893733). During the study I.V. vitamin B complex or placebo was given twice a day for 5 consecutive days. In each patient, a protocol-based treatment approach for AKI was used (STOP AKI protocol from the ISN 0by25 trial https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1003408). Serum creatinine (sCr) was measured using a point of care device (NOVA Biomedical Xpress CREA) at enrollment and every 24 hours for 7 days, and then at day 30, and day 90. We evaluated if vitamin B complex could improve renal recovery in patients with AKI, reduce the risk of De Novo CKD or CKD progression, and improve survival. Result(s): From September 2020 to September 2021, 260 patients were enrolled. Baseline characteristics are shown on table 1. The drop in sCr values by day 7 was higher in the vitamin B complex group (1.04 vs. 0.33 mg/dl;p < 0.001). Complete recovery was higher in patients randomized to vitamin B complex (59.2% vs. 34.6%;p=0.001), no difference was found in terms of partial recovery (26.2% vs. 27.7%;p=0.888). Non-recovery was lower in patients who received vitamin B complex as compared to placebo (16.6% vs. 37.7%;p < 0.001). At 3 months, the incidence of de novo CKD was lower in patients who received vitamin B complex (19.2% vs. 26.9%;p=0.043) in patients with CKD the progression of the disease was lower in patients who received vitamin B complex (13.1% vs. 20.8%;p=0.023). No differences were found in terms of 90-day mortality (Vitamin B complex 74.3% vs. Placebo 80.1%;0.554). The relative risk of Vitamin B complex for renal recovery was 0.37 (95% CI 0.242 - 0.593;p<0,0001) with a NNT of 3.1 patients with a relative risk for CKD progression or De Novo CKD of 0.47 (95% CI 0.28 - 0.79;p = 0.005) with a NNT of 4.8 patients. Conclusion(s): Vitamin B complex could accelerate renal recovery in patients with AKI;reduce the incidence of De Novo CKD and CKD progression. Our results support ongoing studies investigating the therapeutic potential of NAD+ augmentation as a means to mitigate kidney injury. Conflict of interest Potential conflict of interest: Nova Biomedical MedtronicCopyright © 2023
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Introduction: Triggered by the recent revolution posed by the digital era, medical education has evolved enormously over the last decade. Much of this transformation was further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Video Abstracts are an innovative tool in science communication allowing a quick overview of a scientific paper. It can be used to build capacity by connecting patients and healthcare professionals to education and research, fostering critical thinking, and filling gaps in education. The Video Abstracts Series is an initiative that was envisioned by the ISN Education Working Group in association with the DOPPS collaboration and put into action by the ISN Education Social Media Team. Starting in Dec 2021, the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) Video Abstracts Series has integrated the ISN global education strategy. The videos are allowed a maximum length of 2:20 min to fit the Twitter limits. It constitutes a video narrative of a study's principal characteristics and findings. The project was fully developed based on voluntary work, from conception to video production. Method(s): This study aimed to assess quantitatively the impact of the ISN Video Abstracts Series initiative. From Dec 2021 to Sept 2022, video impressions, engagements, and video views from Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and the Academy were analyzed. Result(s): The ISN Video Abstracts Series highlighted studies published in the Kidney International Reports (KIR, n=12);Kidney International (KI, n=12);and the ISN-DOPPS initiative (n=1). In combination, the 25 Video Abstracts, resulted in 139,402 impressions;3,434 engagements;and 25,041 video views. Most of the interactions occurred on Twitter (79.8%). In this digital platform, on average videos had 5,300 impressions and 790 views. The videos redirected the user to the journal publication in 435 instances. The ISN Video Abstracts Series addressing the KIR publication "Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Biosynthetic Impairment and Urinary Metabolomic Alterations Observed in Hospitalized Adults With COVID19-Related AKI", had the most views (n=2,125). Conclusion(s): The future of continuing medical education relies on new strategies and media to build capacity and bridge the gaps. The ISN offers a wide variety of educational and interactive resources through Social Media and the ISN Academy, its official e-Learning portal. The Video Abstracts Series is an innovative, inclusive, and resourceful tool. It combines sharp and concise information with an entertaining format that captures and retains the user's attention, opening new perspectives in the ISN strategy to boost continuing medical education in nephrology globally. No conflict of interestCopyright © 2023
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Background: Necrotizing myopathy has been previously described but was not included in the Peter and Bohan criteria until 2004, when immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM) was distinguished from polymyositis (PM) based on immunologic and histopathologic differences. IMNM is currently a well-recognized autoimmune myopathy and represents up to 20% of these cases. Case: A 60-year- old female with biopsy-proven PM achieved sustained clinical remission with Rituximab. Her co-morbid conditions include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. The patient noted a recurrence of gradual progressive, proximal muscle weakness and easy fatigability after receiving her first mRNA Covid-19 vaccine. Four months after onset of symptoms, CK Total was 9600 U/L. Rituximab was administered and muscle weakness and total CK levels (1247 U/L) improved within 10 days. She was prescribed rosuvastatin and fenofibrate for dyslipidemia within 7 days of completing the rituximab course. Two weeks later, proximal muscle weakness recurred. She became wheelchair-bound and experienced dysphonia. MMT score was 2/5 in proximal muscles and total CK total increased to 19,935 U/L. The patient received Methylprednisolone 500 mg IV once a day for 3 days. She had a good response with resolution of dysphonia and improvement of MMT to 4/5 on shoulder abduction and hip flexion on the 6th hospital day. She was discharged on oral methylprednisolone at 1 mg/kg/day. Muscle biopsy was consistent with an immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, revealing necrotic fibers, intracellular macrophages, fatty infiltrates, irregular staining patterns on NADH stain with no evidence of endomysial inflammation, perifascicular atrophy, ragged red fibers, or rimmed vacuoles. Antibodiy against 3-hydoxy- 3- methylglutarylcoenzymeA reductase (HMGCR) result is pending but the other myositis-specific antibodies are negative.(including anti-SRP). Conclusion(s): IMNM is an autoimmune myopathy associated with anti-HMGCR and anti-SRP antibodies that clinically present similarly to polymyositis. The temporal occurrence of worsening muscle weakness with initiation of statin therapy make statin toxic myopathy or immune mediated necrotizing myopathy as diagnostic considerations. This case emphasizes the need to re-evaluate the etiology of new onset muscle weakness in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy and highlights the role of myositis-specific antibodies and muscle biopsy in confirming the diagnosis.
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Objective: Severe acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) seen in SARs-CoV-2 infection has been attributed to the disruption of the immune response in COVID-19 patients. Neutrophilia and marked lymphocyte reductions are associated with disease severity and seem predictive of disease outcome in moderate and severe COVID-19 patients. Herein, we aim to decipher possible mechanisms involved in extensive tissue injury observed in COVID-19 patients, accompanied by vasculopathy, coagulopathy, and a high incidence of thrombotic complications in severe patients. Method(s): We searched PubMED for keywords including COVID-19 pathogenesis, thrombosis, and vasculities. Result(s): Neutrophils can undergo a specialized form of apoptosis to yield thread-like extracellular structures termed neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), termed NETosis, which form web-like scaffolds of DNA, histones, and toxic protein granules and enzymes, whose primary function is to trap and eliminate microbes. However, uncontrolled NET production can lead to ALI and ARDS, coagulopathy, multiple organ failure, and autoimmune disease. Dysregulation of NETs promotes production of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) which affects small vessels through ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). Furthermore, NETs can also induce thrombosis via formation of scaffolds that trap platelets, RBCs, fibronectin, and other proteins, which can also induce coagulation. Conclusion(s): We suggest that NET production is central during SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 pathogenesis, associated with alveolar damage accumulation of edema, endothelial injury and coagulopathy, elevated platelet activation and thrombogenesis forming a NET production feed-forward loop, causing diffuse small vessel vasculitis in the lungs and other organs. Copyright © 2020 FSG Communications Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Purpose : Background: Despite being primarily a respiratory disease, COVID-19 can lead to non-respiratory complications, including myocardial infarction and acute ischemic stroke. Moreover, COVID-19 spike protein (SP) was reported in the retina of deceased patients with COVID-19. Retinal microvascular abnormalities as loss of microvasculature and distinct thinning of the microcapillaries were reported in patients who recovered from COVID-19. We are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, with more deaths and cases every day. Therefore investigating the impact of COVID-19 on the retinal neurovascular environment and the long-term effect of this virus on vision is of great interest. Purpose: To study the contribution of COVID-19 SP to retinal inflammation and vascular death. Methods : Methods: COVID-19 SP, a highly glycosylated protein that allows the virus to penetrate the cell and cause infection, was injected intravitreally in 6-8 weeks global h-ACE2 knock-in mice and wild-type mice. Mice were sacrificed after 14 days, then vascular cell death and inflammation were evaluated by the presence of acellular capillaries and the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic markers. To complement our in-vivo studies, Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells (HMEC) were treated with 100 nM COVID-19 SP for 48 hours. The expression of inflammatory and apoptotic markers was assessed by PCR western blot. Results : Results: Our results showed that HMEC exposed to COVID-19 SP for 48 hours displayed an increase in inflammatory and apoptotic markers expression including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and cleaved caspase-3 compared to control conditions. Additionally, COVID-19 SP enhanced the oxidative stress in HMEC, evident by the increase in nitro-tyrosine formation, superoxide dismutase, and NADPH oxidase complex 1 (NOX1 and NOX5) expression. The in-vivo findings came in agreement with our in-vitro studies. We found that intravitreal injection of the COVID-19 SP-induced 1) strong activation of the retinal glial cells, assessed by GFAP radial staining, and 2) increased vascular death, assessed by acellular capillaries formation 14 days after the injection. Conclusions : Conclusions: Our findings highlight the possible role of COVID-19 SP in inducing retinal inflammation and vascular death. Further studies are required to reveal the impact of COVID-19 SP on visual acuity and the possibility of causing visual impairment using various animal models.
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Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to address how renal insults are treated. There is an urgent need to better understand the complex relationship between infections and kidney disease and develop safe and effective approaches that can be translated to the clinic. Hydrodynamic fluid delivery has shown promise in influencing renal function in disease models. This technique previously provided preconditioned protection in acute injury models by upregulating the mitochondrial adaptation, while hydrodynamic injections of saline alone have also improved microvascular perfusion. Accordingly, hydrodynamic mitochondrial gene delivery was applied to investigate its ability to halt renal impairment that may occur following episodes of acute moderate and severe injuries in a rat model. Methods: Transgene infusates were prepared by suspending approximately 2 μg of IDH2 (isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (NADP+) and mitochondrial) plasmid DNA/g of body weight in 0.5 ml of saline. Animals were subjected to moderate (bilateral pedicle clamp 30 mins) or severe (bilateral pedicle clamp 60 mins) forms of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Infusates were delivered directly into the left renal vein within 5 seconds, roughly 1 hour after IRI was established. Serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were monitored for 2 weeks. Results: Significant reductions in the levels of both metabolites (p < 0.05 for both cases) were achieved with single transgene treatments administered at both time points. Specifically, the maximal rises in SCr and BUN levels were reduced by at least 50%, which translated the effects of a severe injury to a moderate injury and a moderate injury to a mild injury. Conclusions: Therefore, this study identifies an approach that boosts recovery and halts the progression of ischemia-reperfusion at its inception and can be vital for high-risk conditions and may help devise translation models to address the rising incidence of acute renal diseases. No conflict of interest
ABSTRACT
Background: AAP or ENZ added to ADT improves outcomes for mHSPC. Any benefit of combining ENZ & AAP in this disease setting is uncertain. Methods: STAMPEDE is a multi-arm, multi-stage (MAMS), platform protocol conducted at 117 sites in the UK & Switzerland. 2 trials with no overlapping controls randomised mHSPC patients (pts) 1:1 to ADT +/- AAP (1000mg od AA + 5mg od P) or AAP + ENZ (160mg od). Treatment was continued to progression. From Jan 2016 docetaxel 75mg/m2 3-weekly with P 10mg od was permitted + ADT. Using meta-analysis methods, we tested for evidence of a difference in OS and secondary outcomes (as described previously: failure-free, metastatic progression-free, progression-free & prostate cancer specific survival) across the 2 trials using data frozen 3 Jul 2022. All confidence intervals (CI) 95%. Restricted mean survival times (RMST) restricted to 84 months (m). Results: Between Nov 2011 & Jan 2014, 1003 pts were randomised ADT +/- AAP & between Jul 2014 & Mar 2016, 916 pts were randomised ADT +/- AAP + ENZ. Randomised groups were well balanced across both trials. Pt cohort: age, median 68 years (yr), IQR 63, 72;PSA prior to ADT, median 95.7 ng/ml, IQR 26.5, 346;de novo 94%, relapsed after radical treatment, 6%. In AAP + ENZ trial, 9% had docetaxel + ADT. OS benefit in AAP + ENZ trial, HR 0.65 (CI 0.55‒0.77) p = 1.4×10-6;in AAP trial, HR 0.62 (0.53, 0.73) p = 1.6×10-9. No evidence of a difference in treatment effect (interaction HR 1.05 CI 0.83‒1.32, p = 0.71) or between-trial heterogeneity (I2 p = 0.70). Same for secondary end-points. % (CI) of pts reporting grade 3-5 toxicity in 1st 5 yr: AAP trial, ADT: 38.5 (34.2-42.8), + AAP: 54.4 (50.0-58.8);AAP + ENZ trial, ADT: 45.2 (40.6 – 49.8), + AAP + ENZ: 67.9 (63.5 – 72.2);most frequently increased with AAP or AAP + ENZ = liver derangement, hypertension. At 7 yr in AAP trial (median follow-up: 95.8m), % (CI) pts alive with ADT: 30 (26, 34) versus with ADT + AAP: 48 (43, 52);RMST: ADT: 50.4m, ADT + AAP: 60.6m, p = 6.6 x 10-9. Conclusions: ENZ + AAP need not be combined for mHSPC. Clinically important improvements in OS when adding AAP to ADT are maintained at 7 yr. Clinical trial identification: NCT00268476. Legal entity responsible for the study: Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit at University College London. Funding: Cancer Research UK, Medical Research Council, Janssen, Astellas. Disclosure: G. Attard: Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker: Janssen, Astellas, AstraZeneca;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board: Janssen, Astellas, Novartis, Bayer, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Sanofi, Sapience, Orion;Financial Interests, Personal, Royalties, Included in list of rewards to discoverers of abiraterone: Institute of Cancer Research;Financial Interests, Institutional, Research Grant: Janssen, Astellas;Non-Financial Interests, Principal Investigator: Janssen, Astellas;Non-Financial Interests, Advisory Role: Janssen, AstraZeneca. W.R. Cross: Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Speaker fee: Myriad Genetics, Janssen, Astellas;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Advisory Board fee: Bayer;Financial Interests, Institutional, Research Grant, Research grant: Myriad Genetics. S. Gillessen: Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, 2018: Sanofi, Roche;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, 2018, 2019: Orion;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, 2019 Speaker's Bureau: Janssen Cilag;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, 2020: Amgen;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, 2020: ESMO;Financial Interests, Personal, Other, Travel Grant 2020: ProteoMEdiX;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2018, 2019, 2022: Bayer;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2020: Janssen Cilag, Roche, MSD Merck Sharp & Dohme, Pfizer;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2018: AAA International, Menarini Silicon Biosystems;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2019, 2020: Astellas Pharma;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory B ard, 2019: Tolero Pharmaceuticals;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, 2021, 2022: SAKK, DESO;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2021: Telixpharma, BMS, AAA International, Novartis, Modra Pharmaceuticas Holding B.V.;Financial Interests, Institutional, Other, Steering Committee 2021: Amgen;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2021, 2022: Orion, Bayer;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, 2021: SAKK, SAKK, SAMO - IBCSG (Swiss Academy of Multidisciplinary oncology);Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, 2021: MSD Merck Sharp & Dhome;Financial Interests, Personal, 2021: RSI (Televisione Svizzera Italiana);Financial Interests, Institutional, Invited Speaker, 2021: Silvio Grasso Consulting;Financial Interests, Institutional, Other, Faculty activity 2022: WebMD-Medscape;Financial Interests, Institutional, Advisory Board, 2022: Myriad genetics, AstraZeneca;Financial Interests, Institutional, Invited Speaker, 2022: TOLREMO;Financial Interests, Personal, Other, Travel support 2022: AstraZeneca;Financial Interests, Institutional, Funding, 2021, Unrestricted grant for a Covid related study as co-investigator: Astellas;Non-Financial Interests, Advisory Role, 2019: Menarini Silicon Biosystems, Aranda;Non-Financial Interests, Advisory Role, Continuing: ProteoMediX. C. Pezaro: Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Ad board Dec 2020: Advanced Accelerator Applications;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Aug 2021: Astellas;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Oct 2021: Bayer;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Sept-Oct 2020: AstraZeneca;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Oct 2020: Janssen;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, July-Sept 2022: Pfizer. Z. Malik: Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, advisry board for new hormonal therapy for breast cancer: sanofi;Financial Interests, Institutional, Invited Speaker, research grant for CHROME study: sanofi;Other, Other, support to attend meetings or advisory boards in the past: Astellas,Jaansen,Bayer;Other, Other, Sponsorship to attend ASCO meeting 2022: Bayer. M.R. Sydes: Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Speaker fees at clinical trial statistics training sessions for clinicians (no discussion of particular drugs): Janssen;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Speaker fees at clinical trial statistics training session for clinicians (no discussion of particular drugs): Eli Lilly;Financial Interests, Institutional, Research Grant, Educational grant and drug for STAMPEDE trial: Astellas, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, Sanofi;Financial Interests, Institutional, Research Grant, Educational grant and biomarker costs for STAMPEDE trial: Clovis Oncology. L.C. brown: Financial Interests, Institutional, Research Grant, £170k educational grant for the FOCUS4-C Trial from June 2017 to Dec 2021: AstraZeneca;Financial Interests, Institutional, Funding, Various grants awarded to my institution for work undertaken as part of the STAMPEDE Trial: janssen pharmaceuticals;Non-Financial Interests, Other, I am a member of the CRUK CERP funding advisory panel and my Institution also receive grant funding from CRUK for the STAMPEDE and FOCUS4 trials: Cancer Research UK. M.K. Parmar: Financial Interests, Institutional, Full or part-time Employment, Director at MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL: Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit at UCL;Financial Interests, Institutional, Research Grant: AstraZeneca, Astellas, Janssen, Clovis;Non-Financial Interests, Advisory Role, Euro Ewing Consortium: University College London;Non-Financial Interests, Advisory Role, rEECur: University of Birmingham;Non-Financial Interests, Advisory Role, CompARE Trial: University of Birmingham. N.D. James: Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Advice around PARP inhibitors: AstraZeneca;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Prostate cancer therapies: Janssen, Clovis, Novartis;Financial Interests, Institutional, Expert Testimony, Assisted with submissions regarding licencing for abiraterone: Janssen;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Docetaxel: Sanofi;Financial Interests, Institutional, Expert Testimony, Providing STAMPEDE trial data to facilitate licence extensions internationally for docetaxel: Sanofi;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Bladder cancer therapy: Merck;Financial Interests, Personal, Advisory Board, Advice around novel hormone therapies for prostate cancer: Bayer;Financial Interests, Personal, Invited Speaker, Lecture tour in Brazil August 2022 - speaking on therapy for advanced prostate cancer: Merck Sharp & Dohme (UK) Limited;Financial Interests, Institutional, Invited Speaker, Funding for STAMPEDE trial: Janssen, Astellas;Financial Interests, Institutional, Invited Speaker, Funding for RADIO trial bladder cancer: AstraZeneca. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
ABSTRACT
Background: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell tumor which often relapses. BCR inhibitors (Ibrutinib, Acalabrutinib) and antiapoptotic BCL2-family members blockers BH3-mimetics (Venetoclax, ABT-199) are effective drugs to fight MCL. However, the disease remains incurable, due to therapy resistance, even to the promising Venetoclax and Ibrutinib combination. Therefore, there is a profound need to explore novel useful therapeutic targets. CK2 is a S/T kinase overexpressed in several solid and blood tumors. We demonstrated that CK2, operating through a 'non-oncogene addiction' mechanism promotes tumor cell survival, and counteracts apoptosis, by activating pro-survival signaling cascades, such as NF-κ B, STAT3 and AKT. CK2 could regulate also BCL2 family members. The CK2 chemical inhibitor CX-4945 (Silmitasertib, Sil) is already under scrutiny in clinical trials in relapsed multiple myeloma, solid tumors and COVID-19. Aims: In this work, we tested the effect of CK2 chemical inhibition or knock down on Venetoclax (Ven)-induced cytotoxicity in MCL pre-clinical models to effectively reduce MCL cell growth and clonal expansion. Methods: CK2 expression and BCR/BCL2 related signaling components were analyzed in MCL cells and control cells by Western blotting. CK2 and BCL2 inhibition was obtained with Sil and Ven, respectively and with CK2 gene silencing through the generation of anti-CK2 shRNA IPTG-inducible MCL cell clones. Survival, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane depolarization and proliferation were investigated by FACS analysis of AnnexinV/PI and JC-10 staining. The synergic action of Ven and Sil was analyzed by the Chou-Talalay combination index (CI) method. CK2 knock down in vivo was obtained in xenograft NOD-SCID mouse models Results: CK2 inactivation (with Sil or CK2 silencing) determined a reduction in the activating phosphorylation of S529 p65/RelA and S473 and S129 AKT, important survival cascades for MCL. Sil or CK2 silencing caused BCL2 and related MCL1 protein reduction, causing cell death. Importantly, we confirmed these results also in an in vivo xenograft mouse model of CK2 knockdown in MCL. Sil +Ven combination increased MCL cell apoptosis, as judged by the augmented frequency of Annexin V positive cells and expression of cleaved PARP protein, and JC-10 mitochondrial membrane depolarization, with respect to the single treatments. Captivatingly, Sil or CK2 gene silencing led to a substantial reduction of the Ven-induced increase of MCL-1, potentially counteracting a deleterious Ven-induced drawback. Analysis of cell cycle distribution confirmed an increased frequency of apoptotic cells in the sub G1 phase in CK2-silenced cells and a modulation of the other phases of the cell cycle. Remarkably, the calculated CI less than 1 suggested a strong synergic cell-killing effect between Sil and Ven, on all the cell lines tested, including those less sensitive or resistant to Ven Summary/Conclusion: We demonstrated that the simultaneous inhibition/knock down of CK2 and BCL2 synergistically cooperates in inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of MCL malignant B-lymphocytes and has the potential of reducing MCL clonal growth, also counterbalancing mechanism of resistance that may arise with Ven. Therefore, CK2 is a rational therapeutic target for the treatment of MCL to be tested in combination with Ibrutinib or Ven.
ABSTRACT
Background: An interferon gene signature (IGS) is present in approximately 50% of early, treatment naive rheumatoid arthritis (eRA) patients. We previously demonstrated it negatively impacts on initial disease outcomes. Objectives: To 1) reproduce previous fndings demonstrating the harmful effects of the IGS on early RA clinical outcomes, 2) identify which IFN class is responsible for the IGS and 3) seek evidence that IFN-a exposure contributes to harmful epigenetic footprint at disease onset. Methods: In a large multicentre inception cohort (n=190) of eRA patients (RA-MAP TACERA) whole blood transcriptome, IGS (MxA, IFI44L, OAS1, ISG15, IFI6) and circulating interferons (IFN)-a,-β,-y and-), was examined at baseline and 6 months in conjunction with disease activity and clinical characteristics. A separate eRA cohort of paired methylome and transcriptome from CD4 T and CD19 B cells (n=41 for each) was used to explore any epigenetic influence of the IGS. Results: The baseline IGS reproducibly and signifcantly negatively impacts on 6-month clinical outcomes. In the high IGS cohort there was increased DAS-28 (p=0.025) and reduced probability of achieving a good EULAR response (p=0.034) at 6-months. In addition, the IGS in eRA is shown for the frst time to predominantly refect raised circulating IFN-a protein, not other classes of IFN and examination of whole blood upstream nucleic acid sensors expression suggest a RNA trigger. Both the IGS and IFN-a signifcantly fell in parallel at 6 months (p<0.0001), whereas other classes of IFN remained statistically static. There was a signifcant association with IFN-a and RF titre but not ACPA. Comparison of CD4 T and CD19 B cells between IGS high and low eRA patients demonstrated differentially methylated CPG sites and altered transcript expression of disease relevant genes e.g. PARP9, STAT1, EPTSI1 which was similarly, and persistently altered 6 months in the separate TACERA cohort. Differentially methylated CPGs implicated altered transcription factor binding in B cells (GATA3, ETSI, NFATC2, EZH2) and T cells (p300, HIF1a) which cumulatively suggested IFN-a induced epigenetic changes promoting increased, and sustained, lymphocyte activation, proliferation and loss of anergy in the IGS high cohort. Conclusion: We validate that the IGS is a robust prognostic biomarker in eRA predicting poor therapeutic response. Its persistent harmful effects may be driven via epigenetic modifcations. These data have relevance for other IFN-a states, such as COVID-19, but also provide a rationale for the initial therapeutic targeting of IFN-a signalling, such as with JAKi, at disease onset in stratifed eRA subsets.