This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Extracts of the bulbs of the two endemic varieties &a... more Extracts of the bulbs of the two endemic varieties "Rosato" and "Caposele" of Allium sativum of the Campania region, Southern Italy, were analyzed. The phenolic content, ascorbic acid, allicin content, and in vitro antimicrobial and antifungal activity were determined. Ultra performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector performed polyphenol profile. The polyphenolic extracts showed antioxidant activity (EC50) lower than 120 mg. The amount of ascorbic acid and allicin in the two extracts was similar. Polyphenol extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and (only by the extract of Rosato) against Bacillus cereus. The extract of Caposele was more effective in inhibiting the growth of Aspergillus versicolor and Penicillum citrinum. On the other hand, the extract of Rosato was effective against Penicillium expansum.
Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fe... more Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fetal adaptation because this compound is involved in stress response and adaptation mechanisms. Endorphin levels in human colostrum are twofold greater than corresponding maternal plasma levels; however, the high endorphin levels in human milk decrease as lactation continues. The aim of this study was to determine the -EP concentration in colostrums of women residing in Burkina Faso and Sicily. In addition, we investigated the source of potential differences in -EP levels between these populations, especially ethnic sources of these deviations. Methods: The concentration of -EP was determined in the colostrum from the first 3 d subsequent to delivery by an enzyme immunoassay as immunoreactive material (IRM). Results: The production of -EP in the colostrum was significantly higher in Burkinabe mothers (0.83 Ϯ 0.04 ng/mL) than in Sicilian mothers (0.31 Ϯ 0.02 ng/mL) at 24 h after delivery. Colostrum levels of -EP declined progressively during the first 3 d after delivery in both populations (0.64 Ϯ 0.1 and 0.28 Ϯ 0.015 ng/mL, respectively, at 72 h). The level of -EP-IRM correlated significantly with pain and psychological involvement during and after delivery. In addition, the correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II of labor was significant (P Ͻ 0.0001) in the colostrums of Sicilian mothers who received ergot derivatives, episiorrhaphy, and child birth preparation. The correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II was less significant (P Ͻ 0.001) in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers who received neither ergot derivatives nor child birth preparation. Conclusion: During the first 3 d after labor the -EP-IRM concentration in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers differs from that of Sicilians. In addition, because Burkinabe women produce a larger volume of colostrum, their newborns receive, during the first days of life, a larger absolute amount of -EP-IRM, likely resulting in better postnatal fetal adaptation.
International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, Jan 19, 2022
Pasta is a commonly consumed food; adding some ingredients, maybe turn it into a functional food ... more Pasta is a commonly consumed food; adding some ingredients, maybe turn it into a functional food with health benefits. These ingredients consist of dietary fiber, antioxidant molecules, and enzyme inhibitor compounds, related to a reduced risk for some diseases. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a rich source of bioactive compounds rendering it a relevant candidate for the production of functional foods. The present study examines the in vitro starch digestibility of durum wheat pasta supplemented with 3% onion flour. The incorporation of onion flour attenuated the extent of starch digestion and accordingly the area under the curve of reducing sugars discharged during in vitro digestion. The predicted glycemic index (pGI) of pasta supplemented with onion flour (3%) was significantly lower (pGI = 54 ± 0.17) than the control pasta (pGI = 72 ± 0.14). These results indicate that 3% onion fortified pasta represents a food with potential healthy properties, showing glucose-lowering capabilities in vitro.
Genetic hypervariability of viruses such as HIV-1 facilitates appearance of escape mutants for im... more Genetic hypervariability of viruses such as HIV-1 facilitates appearance of escape mutants for immune response. HIV-1 isolates display variant epitopes, which may fail to stimulate T-lymphocyte responses or act as natural T-cell receptor antagonists, contributing to viral persistence. We evaluated the effect on epitope specific T-cell reactions of different amino acid substitutions in a residue of the 248-262 sequence of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (peptide 23), showing variability in different viral isolates. Responses against such a determinant have been detected in long-term nonprogressive patients. The modified antigenic determinant was administered either as synthetic peptide or as recombinant protein. Our results show that certain amino acid substitutions abolished peptide binding to major histocompatibility complex (MHC); other modifications, although not affecting the formation of the MHC/peptide complex, either abrogated T-cell proliferation or exhibited an antagonistic effect. The results suggest that residue 11 of peptide 23 exhibits a double function; its alteration affects both the peptide affinity for the MHC and the MHC/peptide complex affinity for the T-cell receptor. Furthermore, we demonstrated that synthetic ligands and recombinant proteins may produce distinct functional effects, providing evidence that synthetic peptides, compared with corresponding epitopes generated by intracellular processing of recombinant proteins, may bind to the MHC groove in a different conformation.
Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology, Dec 1, 1994
We performed limiting dilution culture of T cells from a patient affected by primary immunodefici... more We performed limiting dilution culture of T cells from a patient affected by primary immunodeficiency as a result of complete lack of adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity and also affected by insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type I diabetes). Despite the occurrence of immunodeficiency, we were able to raise and grow T cell clones derived from this patient in long-term culture. These T cells displayed ADA enzymatic activity and produced interleukin-2 after engagement of their T cell receptor (TCR)/CD3 complex. We analyzed the TCR repertoire of such clones by nucleotide sequencing of TCR beta chains. The results show that the T cell clones express different V beta but similar J regions. However, the CDR3 regions which are implicated in antigen recognition were found to be heterogeneous.
Studies on the regulation of a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II gene, HLA-DQA1, in... more Studies on the regulation of a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II gene, HLA-DQA1, in Ia-positve cells (Raji, a human B-lymphoma cell line) and in isogenic Ia-negative cells (RJ2.2.5, a mutant of Raji altered at the AIR-1 locus) are reported. As previously found, AIR-1 is required in its entirety for the activity of an enhancer factor, the absence of which abolishes transcription of MHC class II genes. In this paper, we show that HLA-DQA1 gene expression can be directed by an enhancerless promoter. The fact that this promoter is inactive in the RJ2.2.5 mutant suggests that the transacting element determined by the AIR-1 locus is not only an enhancer factor as previously described, but also acts at the MHC class II promoter level.
Food waste comprises raw or cooked food materials, including all food loss before, during or afte... more Food waste comprises raw or cooked food materials, including all food loss before, during or after meal domestic preparation, as well as all material removed during all food service activities, such as manufacturing, distribution, and retail. It is composed by vegetal or animal materials, counting also bones, carcasses and organs. Due to the enormous vastness of the subject and the number and type of biomolecules obtainable from food waste, in this brief review our attention was focused on two types of animal and vegetable food waste, trying to demonstrate how two models of waste, respectively, can represent a very important source of biomolecules of technological and functional interest. Highlights • Food waste is an enormous source of high benefit molecules • Seafood waste provide bioactive peptides, carotenoids, chitin/chitosan, minerals • Brewing waste can give primary and secondary metabolites • Microbial fermentation gives beneficial phytochemicals to be integrated in some foods Proteins Antioxidant activity 76,81,82,85 Food technology 77, 80, 81 in vitro anti-proliferative activity 81 Substrate for the cultivation of fungi, bacteria and mushrooms; production of hydrolytic enzymes (amylases, proteases cellulases and hemicellulases); production of polyphenols
Aim: We investigated the effects of the pharmacological inhibition in vitro of epidermal growth f... more Aim: We investigated the effects of the pharmacological inhibition in vitro of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in combination with isoflavones. Materials and Methods: Four anticancer drugs (erlotinib, gefitinib, afatinib and AZD9291) were combined with soy and red clover isoflavone extracts and used in cellular proliferation assays. The antitumor activity of inhibitors alone and in combination with isoflavone extracts was compared on three non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines with affiant EGFR genotype: A549 (EGFR wt); H1795 (EGFR T790M); HCC827 (EGFR del E746-A750). Results: Combined treatment with extracts significantly enhanced the antiproliferative activity of all inhibitors against these cell lines. Bioactive compounds of extracts may synergize the antitumor efficacy of the inhibitors. Conclusion: To date, as far as we are aware, this is the first report of the combined effect of isoflavone extracts and EGFR inhibitors on human NCSLC cell growth. Sequential treatment with these drugs combined with isoflavones may represent the basis for a new therapeutic approach.
Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fe... more Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fetal adaptation because this compound is involved in stress response and adaptation mechanisms. Endorphin levels in human colostrum are twofold greater than corresponding maternal plasma levels; however, the high endorphin levels in human milk decrease as lactation continues. The aim of this study was to determine the -EP concentration in colostrums of women residing in Burkina Faso and Sicily. In addition, we investigated the source of potential differences in -EP levels between these populations, especially ethnic sources of these deviations. Methods: The concentration of -EP was determined in the colostrum from the first 3 d subsequent to delivery by an enzyme immunoassay as immunoreactive material (IRM). Results: The production of -EP in the colostrum was significantly higher in Burkinabe mothers (0.83 Ϯ 0.04 ng/mL) than in Sicilian mothers (0.31 Ϯ 0.02 ng/mL) at 24 h after delivery. Colostrum levels of -EP declined progressively during the first 3 d after delivery in both populations (0.64 Ϯ 0.1 and 0.28 Ϯ 0.015 ng/mL, respectively, at 72 h). The level of -EP-IRM correlated significantly with pain and psychological involvement during and after delivery. In addition, the correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II of labor was significant (P Ͻ 0.0001) in the colostrums of Sicilian mothers who received ergot derivatives, episiorrhaphy, and child birth preparation. The correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II was less significant (P Ͻ 0.001) in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers who received neither ergot derivatives nor child birth preparation. Conclusion: During the first 3 d after labor the -EP-IRM concentration in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers differs from that of Sicilians. In addition, because Burkinabe women produce a larger volume of colostrum, their newborns receive, during the first days of life, a larger absolute amount of -EP-IRM, likely resulting in better postnatal fetal adaptation.
Immunodominance or cripticity of a peptide-borne determinant may be influenced by the protein con... more Immunodominance or cripticity of a peptide-borne determinant may be influenced by the protein context in which the epitope is embedded. In this frame, we previously showed that certain human T cell clones, derived from different donors, may differentially recognize the RT 248-262 helper determinant depending on whether it is provided to the presenting cells as a synthetic peptide or as a recombinant carrier protein to which the sequence of interest is fused. We now report that, upon in vitro immunization of human PBL with autologous APC, the epitope-specific TCRVB repertoire obtained when selection is applied by pulsing the APC with the cognate synthetic peptide is different from that found when a recombinant protein is used in which the antigenic sequence is placed at either a N-terminal or C-terminal location of the GST carrier. As the TCRVB distribution is not a function of the APC used, we propose that processing of different recombinant molecules containing the same epitope may generate MHC/peptide complexes which, being antigenically diverse, may recruit distinct TCR specificities. These findings may be relevant for evaluating and predicting the immunogenic potential of subunit vaccines based on synthetic peptides or on recombinant proteins as compared to the native antigen.
N-and C-terminal extensions of naturally processed MHC class II-bound peptides may affect TCR rec... more N-and C-terminal extensions of naturally processed MHC class II-bound peptides may affect TCR recognition. In fact, residues immediately flanking the minimal epitope on either side can contact the MHC groove and modify the interaction with a TCR. We report now that residues much farther away from the peptide core can also modulate TCR recognition in a functional antigen presentation system. To show this, we isolated from the same donor DR5-restricted T cell clones, specific for the HIV-1 RT 248-262 sequence and differing in their ability to respond to recombinant antigens obtained by insertion of the epitope in different positions of schistosomal, human, or murine glutathione-S-transferase (GST). We found that the reactivity profile of individual clones was related to their TCR fine specificity, suggesting that processing can generate determinants focused onto the same epitope, but antigenically distinct. In addition, we analyzed the response of this panel of T-helper cell clones against GST-derived recombinant antigens in which the epitope was flanked by stretches of polyalanine or polyserine on either side. These spacers had different effects on TCR recognition suggesting that secondary structures outside the core peptide may influence MHC/epitope complex recognition over a distance of 15-30 residues from the determinant.
The aim of this paper was to study the polyphenols of peel and pulp of three Citrus taxa-Citrus m... more The aim of this paper was to study the polyphenols of peel and pulp of three Citrus taxa-Citrus medica, Citrus bergamia, and Citrus medica cv. Salò-cultivated in the Cosenza province, Southern Italy, and to evaluate their antioxidant and antibacterial activity, performed against Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pectobacterium carotovorum. Furthermore, we assessed the inhibitory effect of the extracts on bacterial capacity to form biofilm, and on the metabolic activity of the cells present therein. The results indicated that such extracts could find new potential applications in the field of natural antioxidant and anti-bacterial agents in pharmaceutics, agriculture, and food fields.
Edible wild plants are a largely available food at no cost and an emblem of sustainability. Among... more Edible wild plants are a largely available food at no cost and an emblem of sustainability. Among the numerous varieties of edible wild plants, purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) and common mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) are good sources of healthful bioactive compounds. Therefore, there is a growing interest in their consumption for health-related nutritional and sustainable perspectives. Fresh durum wheat tagliatelle fortified with dried and pulverized leaves of mallow or purslane at two distinct percentages of integration (3%, 6%) were handmade. Polyphenols, pigments, and carotenoids were extracted and quantified. The in vitro inhibitory effect against digestive enzymes and the predicted glycaemic response were assessed. All samples exhibited appreciable quantities of polyphenols, pigments, and enzymatic inhibition of α-amylase and α glucosidase in vitro. The estimated glycaemic index for pasta fortified with 3% or 6% purslane powder was reduced by 10.8% or 28.3%, respectively, compared to pasta with durum wheat semolina alone. For mallow-enriched pasta at 3 and 6%, the reductions were 24.3% and 21.6%, in the order. The lowest expected glycaemic index was obtained with pasta 6% purslane powder enriched (P6c = 53 +/- 2.2). In this study, mallow and purslane were tested to be used as natural sources for producing handmade enriched pasta. All the fortified samples presented a lower pGI concerning control pasta, thus indicating that plant powder addition could be suitably adopted. Their valuable and functional compounds reduced the pGI and imparted a pleasant natural color to the pasta.
Background: Polymorphisms in the excision repair cross-complimentary group 1 (ERCC1) gene have be... more Background: Polymorphisms in the excision repair cross-complimentary group 1 (ERCC1) gene have been involved in the prognosis of various cancers. In the present study, we evaluated the prognostic role of the two most common ERCC1 polymorphisms in patients with T4 breast cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 47 patients with T4 breast cancer undergoing treatment with a platinum-based regimen were collected and followed up (median 159 months; range, 42-239 months). ERCC1 C8092A (rs3212986) and T19007C (rs11615) polymorphisms were genotyped, using an automated sequencing approach. The same series was screened for BRCA1/2 mutations by DHPLC analysis and DNA sequencing. Results: Among the tested patients, 16 (34%) and 25 (53%) presented the 8092A (homo-zygosity A/A or heterozygosity A/C) and the 19007C (homozygosity C/C or heterozygosity C/T) genotypes, respectively. The 8092A and 19007C genotypes in ERCC1 were significantly associated with overall survival in T4 breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy containing platinum (p-values = 0.036 and 0.004, respectively). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that combination of 8092A and 19007C genotypes acts as a significant prognostic factor in women with T4 breast cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy (p-values = 0.022 and 0.049, respectively). Two (4.3%) out of 47 cases were found to carry BRCA1/2 mutations; they presented the highest overall survival rates into the series. Conclusions: The ERCC1 8092A and 19007C genotypes or their combination may predict a favorable prognosis in T4 breast cancer patients undergoing a platinum-based treatment. Further large-scale, prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.
The HLA-DQA1 gene exhibits haplotypespecific restriction fragment polymorphisms due to DNA rearra... more The HLA-DQA1 gene exhibits haplotypespecific restriction fragment polymorphisms due to DNA rearrangements. We found that some of these polymorphisms extend into the 5' flanking region of the gene and are distinct from other HLA-DQA1 related DNA polymorphisms so far reported. Sequencing of genomic DNA subclones derived from the 5' flanking region of HLA-DQA1 showed the presence, in a DR4 haplotype, of two repetitive elements of the Alu family, oriented in opposite directions and bracketing an approximately 3 kilobase region immediately adjacent to the promoter of the gene. When DNAs extracted from several cell lines were analyzed by genomic hybridization using single-copy probes relative to these intervening sequences, polymorphisms were observed. No structural alterations of the gene immediately outside the DNA portion delimited by the two Alu elements were observed, thus suggesting that polymorphisms of the 5' end of HLA-DQA1 may be limited to the intervening region between the two Alu repeats. The latter includes upstream regulatory elements controlling the expression of the genes. The possibility that the structure of the DNA in this region may influence the regulation of HLA-DQA1 gene expression in different haplotypes is discussed.
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, it originates from melanocytes and its incid... more Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, it originates from melanocytes and its incidence has increased in the last decade. Recent advances in the understanding of the underlying biology of the progression of melanoma have identified key signalling pathways that are important in promoting melanoma tumourigenesis, thus providing dynamic targets for therapy. One such important target identified in melanoma tumour progression is the Nuclear Factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) pathway. In vitro studies have shown that NF-kappaB binding is constitutively elevated in human melanoma cultures compared to normal melanocytes. It has been found that a short cell-permeable peptide spanning the IKK-beta NBD, named NBD peptide, disrupted the association of NEMO with IKKs in vitro and blocked TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activation in vivo. In the present study we investigated the effect of the NBD peptide on NF-kappaB activity and survival of A375 human melanoma cells. We found that NBD peptide is able to inhibit the proliferation of A375 cells, which present constitutively elevated NF-kappaB levels. Inhibition of cell proliferation by NBD peptide was associated with direct inhibition of constitutive NF-kappaB DNA-binding activity and induction of apoptosis by activation of caspase-3 as confirmed by the cleavage and consequently inactivation of poly (ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP-1) known as the best marker of this process.
We studied the total polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ac... more We studied the total polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of six Citrus monofloral honey, and the in vitro inhibitory effect against cholinesterases and tyrosinase. Finally, we assessed their effect against the biofilm of some pathogenic bacteria. Lime honey showed the best antioxidant activity and the highest content of polyphenols and vitamin C. Lemon and tangerine honey contained almost exclusively flavonoids. Lemon honey better preserved the bovine serum albumin against denaturation (IC 50 = 48.47 mg). Honeys inhibited acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and tyrosinase up to 12.04% (tangerine), 19.11% (bergamot), and 94.1% (lemon), respectively. Lime and clementine honey better inhibited the Listeria monocytogenes biofilm. Bergamot honey acted mainly against the Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm; bergamot and tangerine honey inhibited the Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm particularly. Bergamot, clementine, and tangerine honey acted against Escherichia coli sessile cell metabolism. This Citrus honey exhibited in vitro prospective health benefits and is applicable for future in vivo studies.
Apricot is one of the most important fruit produced in the temperate countries. Consumed both as ... more Apricot is one of the most important fruit produced in the temperate countries. Consumed both as fresh and dried, it represents an important ingredient of diet. It contains polyphenols, carotenoids with well-known biological effects, including liver and hearth protective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory, and microelements, such as Zn, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Na, Mn, P, and K. Apricot and its by-products could potentially be useful as complementary support in human nutrition and for treatment of different diseases. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus, Enterobacter aerogenes) [14], strengthening the evidence for the presence of antimicrobial constituents in apricots which therefore should be subjected to further study. Chemical composition of fresh fruit is resumed in Table 1. All the activities exhibited by apricot and by-products are resumed in Table 2. Chemical composition of apricot fruit (Table 1) indicates the presence of 86.3% of water in the edible portion, and a content of 0.4 g of proteins and 0.1 g of lipids/100 g of fresh weight (FW).
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Extracts of the bulbs of the two endemic varieties &a... more Extracts of the bulbs of the two endemic varieties "Rosato" and "Caposele" of Allium sativum of the Campania region, Southern Italy, were analyzed. The phenolic content, ascorbic acid, allicin content, and in vitro antimicrobial and antifungal activity were determined. Ultra performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector performed polyphenol profile. The polyphenolic extracts showed antioxidant activity (EC50) lower than 120 mg. The amount of ascorbic acid and allicin in the two extracts was similar. Polyphenol extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and (only by the extract of Rosato) against Bacillus cereus. The extract of Caposele was more effective in inhibiting the growth of Aspergillus versicolor and Penicillum citrinum. On the other hand, the extract of Rosato was effective against Penicillium expansum.
Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fe... more Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fetal adaptation because this compound is involved in stress response and adaptation mechanisms. Endorphin levels in human colostrum are twofold greater than corresponding maternal plasma levels; however, the high endorphin levels in human milk decrease as lactation continues. The aim of this study was to determine the -EP concentration in colostrums of women residing in Burkina Faso and Sicily. In addition, we investigated the source of potential differences in -EP levels between these populations, especially ethnic sources of these deviations. Methods: The concentration of -EP was determined in the colostrum from the first 3 d subsequent to delivery by an enzyme immunoassay as immunoreactive material (IRM). Results: The production of -EP in the colostrum was significantly higher in Burkinabe mothers (0.83 Ϯ 0.04 ng/mL) than in Sicilian mothers (0.31 Ϯ 0.02 ng/mL) at 24 h after delivery. Colostrum levels of -EP declined progressively during the first 3 d after delivery in both populations (0.64 Ϯ 0.1 and 0.28 Ϯ 0.015 ng/mL, respectively, at 72 h). The level of -EP-IRM correlated significantly with pain and psychological involvement during and after delivery. In addition, the correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II of labor was significant (P Ͻ 0.0001) in the colostrums of Sicilian mothers who received ergot derivatives, episiorrhaphy, and child birth preparation. The correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II was less significant (P Ͻ 0.001) in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers who received neither ergot derivatives nor child birth preparation. Conclusion: During the first 3 d after labor the -EP-IRM concentration in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers differs from that of Sicilians. In addition, because Burkinabe women produce a larger volume of colostrum, their newborns receive, during the first days of life, a larger absolute amount of -EP-IRM, likely resulting in better postnatal fetal adaptation.
International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, Jan 19, 2022
Pasta is a commonly consumed food; adding some ingredients, maybe turn it into a functional food ... more Pasta is a commonly consumed food; adding some ingredients, maybe turn it into a functional food with health benefits. These ingredients consist of dietary fiber, antioxidant molecules, and enzyme inhibitor compounds, related to a reduced risk for some diseases. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a rich source of bioactive compounds rendering it a relevant candidate for the production of functional foods. The present study examines the in vitro starch digestibility of durum wheat pasta supplemented with 3% onion flour. The incorporation of onion flour attenuated the extent of starch digestion and accordingly the area under the curve of reducing sugars discharged during in vitro digestion. The predicted glycemic index (pGI) of pasta supplemented with onion flour (3%) was significantly lower (pGI = 54 ± 0.17) than the control pasta (pGI = 72 ± 0.14). These results indicate that 3% onion fortified pasta represents a food with potential healthy properties, showing glucose-lowering capabilities in vitro.
Genetic hypervariability of viruses such as HIV-1 facilitates appearance of escape mutants for im... more Genetic hypervariability of viruses such as HIV-1 facilitates appearance of escape mutants for immune response. HIV-1 isolates display variant epitopes, which may fail to stimulate T-lymphocyte responses or act as natural T-cell receptor antagonists, contributing to viral persistence. We evaluated the effect on epitope specific T-cell reactions of different amino acid substitutions in a residue of the 248-262 sequence of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (peptide 23), showing variability in different viral isolates. Responses against such a determinant have been detected in long-term nonprogressive patients. The modified antigenic determinant was administered either as synthetic peptide or as recombinant protein. Our results show that certain amino acid substitutions abolished peptide binding to major histocompatibility complex (MHC); other modifications, although not affecting the formation of the MHC/peptide complex, either abrogated T-cell proliferation or exhibited an antagonistic effect. The results suggest that residue 11 of peptide 23 exhibits a double function; its alteration affects both the peptide affinity for the MHC and the MHC/peptide complex affinity for the T-cell receptor. Furthermore, we demonstrated that synthetic ligands and recombinant proteins may produce distinct functional effects, providing evidence that synthetic peptides, compared with corresponding epitopes generated by intracellular processing of recombinant proteins, may bind to the MHC groove in a different conformation.
Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology, Dec 1, 1994
We performed limiting dilution culture of T cells from a patient affected by primary immunodefici... more We performed limiting dilution culture of T cells from a patient affected by primary immunodeficiency as a result of complete lack of adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity and also affected by insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type I diabetes). Despite the occurrence of immunodeficiency, we were able to raise and grow T cell clones derived from this patient in long-term culture. These T cells displayed ADA enzymatic activity and produced interleukin-2 after engagement of their T cell receptor (TCR)/CD3 complex. We analyzed the TCR repertoire of such clones by nucleotide sequencing of TCR beta chains. The results show that the T cell clones express different V beta but similar J regions. However, the CDR3 regions which are implicated in antigen recognition were found to be heterogeneous.
Studies on the regulation of a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II gene, HLA-DQA1, in... more Studies on the regulation of a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II gene, HLA-DQA1, in Ia-positve cells (Raji, a human B-lymphoma cell line) and in isogenic Ia-negative cells (RJ2.2.5, a mutant of Raji altered at the AIR-1 locus) are reported. As previously found, AIR-1 is required in its entirety for the activity of an enhancer factor, the absence of which abolishes transcription of MHC class II genes. In this paper, we show that HLA-DQA1 gene expression can be directed by an enhancerless promoter. The fact that this promoter is inactive in the RJ2.2.5 mutant suggests that the transacting element determined by the AIR-1 locus is not only an enhancer factor as previously described, but also acts at the MHC class II promoter level.
Food waste comprises raw or cooked food materials, including all food loss before, during or afte... more Food waste comprises raw or cooked food materials, including all food loss before, during or after meal domestic preparation, as well as all material removed during all food service activities, such as manufacturing, distribution, and retail. It is composed by vegetal or animal materials, counting also bones, carcasses and organs. Due to the enormous vastness of the subject and the number and type of biomolecules obtainable from food waste, in this brief review our attention was focused on two types of animal and vegetable food waste, trying to demonstrate how two models of waste, respectively, can represent a very important source of biomolecules of technological and functional interest. Highlights • Food waste is an enormous source of high benefit molecules • Seafood waste provide bioactive peptides, carotenoids, chitin/chitosan, minerals • Brewing waste can give primary and secondary metabolites • Microbial fermentation gives beneficial phytochemicals to be integrated in some foods Proteins Antioxidant activity 76,81,82,85 Food technology 77, 80, 81 in vitro anti-proliferative activity 81 Substrate for the cultivation of fungi, bacteria and mushrooms; production of hydrolytic enzymes (amylases, proteases cellulases and hemicellulases); production of polyphenols
Aim: We investigated the effects of the pharmacological inhibition in vitro of epidermal growth f... more Aim: We investigated the effects of the pharmacological inhibition in vitro of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in combination with isoflavones. Materials and Methods: Four anticancer drugs (erlotinib, gefitinib, afatinib and AZD9291) were combined with soy and red clover isoflavone extracts and used in cellular proliferation assays. The antitumor activity of inhibitors alone and in combination with isoflavone extracts was compared on three non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines with affiant EGFR genotype: A549 (EGFR wt); H1795 (EGFR T790M); HCC827 (EGFR del E746-A750). Results: Combined treatment with extracts significantly enhanced the antiproliferative activity of all inhibitors against these cell lines. Bioactive compounds of extracts may synergize the antitumor efficacy of the inhibitors. Conclusion: To date, as far as we are aware, this is the first report of the combined effect of isoflavone extracts and EGFR inhibitors on human NCSLC cell growth. Sequential treatment with these drugs combined with isoflavones may represent the basis for a new therapeutic approach.
Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fe... more Objective: Endorphins (EPs) present in human colostrum may be relevant for immediate postnatal fetal adaptation because this compound is involved in stress response and adaptation mechanisms. Endorphin levels in human colostrum are twofold greater than corresponding maternal plasma levels; however, the high endorphin levels in human milk decrease as lactation continues. The aim of this study was to determine the -EP concentration in colostrums of women residing in Burkina Faso and Sicily. In addition, we investigated the source of potential differences in -EP levels between these populations, especially ethnic sources of these deviations. Methods: The concentration of -EP was determined in the colostrum from the first 3 d subsequent to delivery by an enzyme immunoassay as immunoreactive material (IRM). Results: The production of -EP in the colostrum was significantly higher in Burkinabe mothers (0.83 Ϯ 0.04 ng/mL) than in Sicilian mothers (0.31 Ϯ 0.02 ng/mL) at 24 h after delivery. Colostrum levels of -EP declined progressively during the first 3 d after delivery in both populations (0.64 Ϯ 0.1 and 0.28 Ϯ 0.015 ng/mL, respectively, at 72 h). The level of -EP-IRM correlated significantly with pain and psychological involvement during and after delivery. In addition, the correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II of labor was significant (P Ͻ 0.0001) in the colostrums of Sicilian mothers who received ergot derivatives, episiorrhaphy, and child birth preparation. The correlation between -EP-IRM and length of stage II was less significant (P Ͻ 0.001) in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers who received neither ergot derivatives nor child birth preparation. Conclusion: During the first 3 d after labor the -EP-IRM concentration in the colostrums of Burkinabe mothers differs from that of Sicilians. In addition, because Burkinabe women produce a larger volume of colostrum, their newborns receive, during the first days of life, a larger absolute amount of -EP-IRM, likely resulting in better postnatal fetal adaptation.
Immunodominance or cripticity of a peptide-borne determinant may be influenced by the protein con... more Immunodominance or cripticity of a peptide-borne determinant may be influenced by the protein context in which the epitope is embedded. In this frame, we previously showed that certain human T cell clones, derived from different donors, may differentially recognize the RT 248-262 helper determinant depending on whether it is provided to the presenting cells as a synthetic peptide or as a recombinant carrier protein to which the sequence of interest is fused. We now report that, upon in vitro immunization of human PBL with autologous APC, the epitope-specific TCRVB repertoire obtained when selection is applied by pulsing the APC with the cognate synthetic peptide is different from that found when a recombinant protein is used in which the antigenic sequence is placed at either a N-terminal or C-terminal location of the GST carrier. As the TCRVB distribution is not a function of the APC used, we propose that processing of different recombinant molecules containing the same epitope may generate MHC/peptide complexes which, being antigenically diverse, may recruit distinct TCR specificities. These findings may be relevant for evaluating and predicting the immunogenic potential of subunit vaccines based on synthetic peptides or on recombinant proteins as compared to the native antigen.
N-and C-terminal extensions of naturally processed MHC class II-bound peptides may affect TCR rec... more N-and C-terminal extensions of naturally processed MHC class II-bound peptides may affect TCR recognition. In fact, residues immediately flanking the minimal epitope on either side can contact the MHC groove and modify the interaction with a TCR. We report now that residues much farther away from the peptide core can also modulate TCR recognition in a functional antigen presentation system. To show this, we isolated from the same donor DR5-restricted T cell clones, specific for the HIV-1 RT 248-262 sequence and differing in their ability to respond to recombinant antigens obtained by insertion of the epitope in different positions of schistosomal, human, or murine glutathione-S-transferase (GST). We found that the reactivity profile of individual clones was related to their TCR fine specificity, suggesting that processing can generate determinants focused onto the same epitope, but antigenically distinct. In addition, we analyzed the response of this panel of T-helper cell clones against GST-derived recombinant antigens in which the epitope was flanked by stretches of polyalanine or polyserine on either side. These spacers had different effects on TCR recognition suggesting that secondary structures outside the core peptide may influence MHC/epitope complex recognition over a distance of 15-30 residues from the determinant.
The aim of this paper was to study the polyphenols of peel and pulp of three Citrus taxa-Citrus m... more The aim of this paper was to study the polyphenols of peel and pulp of three Citrus taxa-Citrus medica, Citrus bergamia, and Citrus medica cv. Salò-cultivated in the Cosenza province, Southern Italy, and to evaluate their antioxidant and antibacterial activity, performed against Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pectobacterium carotovorum. Furthermore, we assessed the inhibitory effect of the extracts on bacterial capacity to form biofilm, and on the metabolic activity of the cells present therein. The results indicated that such extracts could find new potential applications in the field of natural antioxidant and anti-bacterial agents in pharmaceutics, agriculture, and food fields.
Edible wild plants are a largely available food at no cost and an emblem of sustainability. Among... more Edible wild plants are a largely available food at no cost and an emblem of sustainability. Among the numerous varieties of edible wild plants, purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) and common mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) are good sources of healthful bioactive compounds. Therefore, there is a growing interest in their consumption for health-related nutritional and sustainable perspectives. Fresh durum wheat tagliatelle fortified with dried and pulverized leaves of mallow or purslane at two distinct percentages of integration (3%, 6%) were handmade. Polyphenols, pigments, and carotenoids were extracted and quantified. The in vitro inhibitory effect against digestive enzymes and the predicted glycaemic response were assessed. All samples exhibited appreciable quantities of polyphenols, pigments, and enzymatic inhibition of α-amylase and α glucosidase in vitro. The estimated glycaemic index for pasta fortified with 3% or 6% purslane powder was reduced by 10.8% or 28.3%, respectively, compared to pasta with durum wheat semolina alone. For mallow-enriched pasta at 3 and 6%, the reductions were 24.3% and 21.6%, in the order. The lowest expected glycaemic index was obtained with pasta 6% purslane powder enriched (P6c = 53 +/- 2.2). In this study, mallow and purslane were tested to be used as natural sources for producing handmade enriched pasta. All the fortified samples presented a lower pGI concerning control pasta, thus indicating that plant powder addition could be suitably adopted. Their valuable and functional compounds reduced the pGI and imparted a pleasant natural color to the pasta.
Background: Polymorphisms in the excision repair cross-complimentary group 1 (ERCC1) gene have be... more Background: Polymorphisms in the excision repair cross-complimentary group 1 (ERCC1) gene have been involved in the prognosis of various cancers. In the present study, we evaluated the prognostic role of the two most common ERCC1 polymorphisms in patients with T4 breast cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 47 patients with T4 breast cancer undergoing treatment with a platinum-based regimen were collected and followed up (median 159 months; range, 42-239 months). ERCC1 C8092A (rs3212986) and T19007C (rs11615) polymorphisms were genotyped, using an automated sequencing approach. The same series was screened for BRCA1/2 mutations by DHPLC analysis and DNA sequencing. Results: Among the tested patients, 16 (34%) and 25 (53%) presented the 8092A (homo-zygosity A/A or heterozygosity A/C) and the 19007C (homozygosity C/C or heterozygosity C/T) genotypes, respectively. The 8092A and 19007C genotypes in ERCC1 were significantly associated with overall survival in T4 breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy containing platinum (p-values = 0.036 and 0.004, respectively). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that combination of 8092A and 19007C genotypes acts as a significant prognostic factor in women with T4 breast cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy (p-values = 0.022 and 0.049, respectively). Two (4.3%) out of 47 cases were found to carry BRCA1/2 mutations; they presented the highest overall survival rates into the series. Conclusions: The ERCC1 8092A and 19007C genotypes or their combination may predict a favorable prognosis in T4 breast cancer patients undergoing a platinum-based treatment. Further large-scale, prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.
The HLA-DQA1 gene exhibits haplotypespecific restriction fragment polymorphisms due to DNA rearra... more The HLA-DQA1 gene exhibits haplotypespecific restriction fragment polymorphisms due to DNA rearrangements. We found that some of these polymorphisms extend into the 5' flanking region of the gene and are distinct from other HLA-DQA1 related DNA polymorphisms so far reported. Sequencing of genomic DNA subclones derived from the 5' flanking region of HLA-DQA1 showed the presence, in a DR4 haplotype, of two repetitive elements of the Alu family, oriented in opposite directions and bracketing an approximately 3 kilobase region immediately adjacent to the promoter of the gene. When DNAs extracted from several cell lines were analyzed by genomic hybridization using single-copy probes relative to these intervening sequences, polymorphisms were observed. No structural alterations of the gene immediately outside the DNA portion delimited by the two Alu elements were observed, thus suggesting that polymorphisms of the 5' end of HLA-DQA1 may be limited to the intervening region between the two Alu repeats. The latter includes upstream regulatory elements controlling the expression of the genes. The possibility that the structure of the DNA in this region may influence the regulation of HLA-DQA1 gene expression in different haplotypes is discussed.
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, it originates from melanocytes and its incid... more Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, it originates from melanocytes and its incidence has increased in the last decade. Recent advances in the understanding of the underlying biology of the progression of melanoma have identified key signalling pathways that are important in promoting melanoma tumourigenesis, thus providing dynamic targets for therapy. One such important target identified in melanoma tumour progression is the Nuclear Factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) pathway. In vitro studies have shown that NF-kappaB binding is constitutively elevated in human melanoma cultures compared to normal melanocytes. It has been found that a short cell-permeable peptide spanning the IKK-beta NBD, named NBD peptide, disrupted the association of NEMO with IKKs in vitro and blocked TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activation in vivo. In the present study we investigated the effect of the NBD peptide on NF-kappaB activity and survival of A375 human melanoma cells. We found that NBD peptide is able to inhibit the proliferation of A375 cells, which present constitutively elevated NF-kappaB levels. Inhibition of cell proliferation by NBD peptide was associated with direct inhibition of constitutive NF-kappaB DNA-binding activity and induction of apoptosis by activation of caspase-3 as confirmed by the cleavage and consequently inactivation of poly (ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP-1) known as the best marker of this process.
We studied the total polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ac... more We studied the total polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of six Citrus monofloral honey, and the in vitro inhibitory effect against cholinesterases and tyrosinase. Finally, we assessed their effect against the biofilm of some pathogenic bacteria. Lime honey showed the best antioxidant activity and the highest content of polyphenols and vitamin C. Lemon and tangerine honey contained almost exclusively flavonoids. Lemon honey better preserved the bovine serum albumin against denaturation (IC 50 = 48.47 mg). Honeys inhibited acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and tyrosinase up to 12.04% (tangerine), 19.11% (bergamot), and 94.1% (lemon), respectively. Lime and clementine honey better inhibited the Listeria monocytogenes biofilm. Bergamot honey acted mainly against the Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm; bergamot and tangerine honey inhibited the Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm particularly. Bergamot, clementine, and tangerine honey acted against Escherichia coli sessile cell metabolism. This Citrus honey exhibited in vitro prospective health benefits and is applicable for future in vivo studies.
Apricot is one of the most important fruit produced in the temperate countries. Consumed both as ... more Apricot is one of the most important fruit produced in the temperate countries. Consumed both as fresh and dried, it represents an important ingredient of diet. It contains polyphenols, carotenoids with well-known biological effects, including liver and hearth protective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory, and microelements, such as Zn, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Na, Mn, P, and K. Apricot and its by-products could potentially be useful as complementary support in human nutrition and for treatment of different diseases. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus, Enterobacter aerogenes) [14], strengthening the evidence for the presence of antimicrobial constituents in apricots which therefore should be subjected to further study. Chemical composition of fresh fruit is resumed in Table 1. All the activities exhibited by apricot and by-products are resumed in Table 2. Chemical composition of apricot fruit (Table 1) indicates the presence of 86.3% of water in the edible portion, and a content of 0.4 g of proteins and 0.1 g of lipids/100 g of fresh weight (FW).
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Papers by Maria Ombra