91 results on '"Alessio Alesci"'
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2. Investigating Development and Defense Systems in Early Reproductive Stages of Male and Female Gonads in Black Scorpionfish Scorpaena porcus (Linnaeus, 1758)
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Alessio Alesci, Sebastian Marino, Claudio D’Iglio, Silvana Morgante, Anthea Miller, Gabriele Rigano, Josipa Ferri, Jorge M. O. Fernandes, and Gioele Capillo
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Scorpaena porcus ,teleost ,internal defense system ,fish reproduction ,Piscidin-1 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
One of the most crucial biological indicators in tracking long-term variations in the reproductive cycle is sexual development. Scorpaena porcus (Linnaeus, 1758), commonly known as the black scorpionfish, is a small teleost from the family Scorpaenidae. Much is known about its ecology, but data on its reproductive and defense systems are still lacking. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as piscidins, are integral components of the innate immune system in fish. These peptides exhibit a wide range of activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa and act as the first line of host defense. This study aims to investigate the primary sexual development stages in male and female gonads of black scorpionfish, providing additional knowledge on the reproductive biology of this teleost while evaluating concomitant changes in the expression of a Piscidin-1 antimicrobial peptide. The results show a histological, morpho-structural change from the immature stage to the developing virgin stage. Immunohistochemical analyses show that germinal and somatic cells are strongly reactive to Piscidin-1 in both gonads at an early ontogeny stage. These data suggest that Piscidin-1 may play a key role in the local defense system of scorpionfish gonads at this delicate stage, which is critical for the continuation and maintenance of the species. The present findings are potentially useful for a better understanding of the reproductive cycle of this fish, improving our knowledge of the interaction between the immune system and reproduction.
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- 2024
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3. The Effect of KSK-94, a Dual Histamine H3 and Sigma-2 Receptor Ligand, on Adipose Tissue in a Rat Model of Developing Obesity
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Magdalena Kotańska, Monika Zadrożna, Monika Kubacka, Kamil Mika, Katarzyna Szczepańska, Barbara Nowak, Alessio Alesci, Anthea Miller, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, and Katarzyna Kieć-Kononowicz
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developing obesity ,beige adipocyte ,white adipose tissue browning ,dual histamine H3 and sigma-2 receptor antagonist ,Medicine ,Pharmacy and materia medica ,RS1-441 - Abstract
Background: Numerous studies highlight the critical role that neural histamine plays in feeding behavior, which is controlled by central histamine H3 and H1 receptors. This is the fundamental motivation for the increased interest in creating histamine H3 receptor antagonists as anti-obesity medications. On the other hand, multiple other neurotransmitter systems have been identified as pharmacotherapeutic targets for obesity, including sigma-2 receptor systems. Interestingly, in our previous studies in the rat excessive eating model, we demonstrated a significant reduction in the development of obesity using dual histamine H3/sigma-2 receptor ligands. Moreover, we showed that compound KSK-94 (structural analog of Abbott’s A-331440) reduced the number of calories consumed, and thus acted as an anorectic compound. Therefore, in this study, we extended the previous research and studied the influence of KSK-94 on adipose tissue collected from animals from our previous experiment. Methods: Visceral adipose tissue was collected from four groups of rats (standard diet + vehicle, palatable diet + vehicle, palatable diet + KSK-94, and palatable diet + bupropion/naltrexone) and subjected to biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical studies. Results: The obtained results clearly indicate that compound KSK-94 prevented the hypertrophy and inflammation of visceral adipose tissue, normalized the levels of leptin, resistin and saved the total reduction capacity of adipose tissue, being more effective than bupropion/naltrexon in these aspects. Moreover, KSK-94 may induce browning of visceral white adipose tissue. Conclusion: Our study suggests that dual compounds with a receptor profile like KSK-94, i.e., targeting histamine H3 receptor and, to a lesser extent, sigma-2 receptor, could be attractive therapeutic options for patients at risk of developing obesity or with obesity and some metabolic disorders. However, more studies are required to determine its safety profile and the exact mechanism of action of KSK-94.
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- 2024
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4. From Proliferation to Protection: Immunohistochemical Profiling of Cardiomyocytes and Immune Cells in Molly Fish Hearts
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Giacomo Zaccone, Doaa M. Mokhtar, Alessio Alesci, Gioele Capillo, Marco Albano, Manal T. Hussein, Marialuisa Aragona, Antonino Germanà, Eugenia R. Lauriano, and Ramy K. A. Sayed
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atrium ,regeneration ,rodlet cells ,SOX9 ,TCs ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
Unlike adult mammalian cardiomyocytes, cardiomyocytes in teleosts display high proliferative capacity throughout adulthood. This study aimed to identify the immunohistochemical profiles of cardiomyocytes and immune cells in the hearts of Molly fish by assessing the immunolabelling expression of key proteins involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue protection. The cardiac anatomy of Molly fish includes the atrium, ventricle, and bulbus arteriosus. The expression of SOX9, NF-κB, myostatin, and S100 proteins in myocardial cells indicates the proliferative features of the heart in Molly fish. The bulbus arteriosus is characterized by collagenous chambers and smooth muscle cells that express Ach and iba1. The atrium of Molly fish serves as a storage unit for rodlet cells and immune cells. Rodlet cells displayed immunoreactivity to NF-κB, iba1, Olig2, Ach, and S100 proteins, suggesting their roles in the immune response within the heart. Furthermore, telocytes (TCs) have emerged as a significant component of the atrium of Molly fish, expressing Ach, CD68, S100 protein, and iba1. These expressions indicate the involvement of TCs in multiple signaling pathways that contribute to heart architecture. This study delineates the intricate relationship between cardiomyocytes and innate immune cells in Molly fish.
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- 2024
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5. Exploring the Internal Defense System of Cerastoderma glaucum (Bruguière, 1789) Exposed to Pristine Microplastics: The Sentinel Role of Haemocytes as Biomarkers
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Alessio Alesci, Davide Di Paola, Sebastian Marino, Federica De Gaetano, Marco Albano, Silvana Morgante, Gabriele Rigano, Letterio Giuffrè, Magdalena Kotanska, Nunziacarla Spanò, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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defense system ,microplastics ,Cerastoderma glaucum ,biomarkers ,haemocytes ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment is a major concern for the conservation of biodiversity. Numerous studies show the detrimental effects of MPs on marine species, especially because of their small size and their capacity to absorb organic contaminants from their surroundings. The bivalve mollusk Cerastoderma glaucum (Bruguière, 1789), because of its wide geographic distribution and immobile feeding habits, can be used as a sentinel and bioindicator species. By examining the presence, localization, and co-localization of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS), this study aims to evaluate the response of the internal defense system of C. glaucum to pristine MPs through the employment of confocal microscopy and bioinformatics techniques. The results show haemocytes immunoreactive to the antibodies tested; in particular, a higher number of TLR2-positive haemocytes can be observed in the group exposed to pristine MPs. These findings suggest that haemocytes can play a key biomarker role as sentinels to environmental pollutants. Furthermore, bioinformatics analyses on the antibodies tested confirmed an evolutionary conservation of these molecules. These data highlight the critical role of phagocytosis in identifying ecosystem damage and are helpful in developing biosensors with less negative effects on the environments in which they are applied.
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- 2024
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6. The potential role of the pseudobranch of molly fish (Poecilia sphenops) in immunity and cell regeneration
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Doaa M. Mokhtar, Ramy K. A. Sayed, Giacomo Zaccone, Alessio Alesci, and Marwa M. Hussein
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Medicine ,Science - Abstract
Abstract The pseudobranch is a gill-like structure that exhibits great variations in structure and function among fish species, and therefore, it has remained a topic of investigation for a long time. This study was conducted on adult Molly fish (Poecilia sphenops) to investigate the potential functions of their pseudobranch using histological, histochemical, immunohistochemical analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The pseudobranch of Molly fish was of embedded type. It comprised many rows of parallel lamellae that were fused completely throughout their length by a thin connective tissue. These lamellae consisted of a central blood capillary, surrounded by large secretory pseudobranch cells (PSCs). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the expression of PSCs for CD3, CD45, iNOS-2, and NF-κB, confirming their role in immunity. Furthermore, T-lymphocytes-positive CD3, leucocytes-positive CD45, and dendritic cells-positive CD-8 and macrophage- positive APG-5 could be distinguished. Moreover, myogenin and TGF-β-positive PSCs were identified, in addition to nests of stem cells- positive SOX-9 were detected. Melanocytes, telocytes, and GFAP-positive astrocytes were also demonstrated. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the PSCs were covered by microridges, which may increase the surface area for ionic exchange. In conclusion, pseudobranch is a highly specialized structure that may be involved in immune response, ion transport, acid–base balance, as well as cell proliferation and regeneration.
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- 2023
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7. Coelomocytes of the Oligochaeta earthworm Lumbricus terrestris (Linnaeus, 1758) as evolutionary key of defense: a morphological study
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Alessio Alesci, Gioele Capillo, Angelo Fumia, Marco Albano, Emmanuele Messina, Nunziacarla Spanò, Simona Pergolizzi, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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Annelid ,Coelomocytes ,Earthworm ,Evolution ,Immunity ,Zoology ,QL1-991 - Abstract
Abstract Metazoans have several mechanisms of internal defense for their survival. The internal defense system evolved alongside the organisms. Annelidae have circulating coelomocytes that perform functions comparable to the phagocytic immune cells of vertebrates. Several studies have shown that these cells are involved in phagocytosis, opsonization, and pathogen recognition processes. Like vertebrate macrophages, these circulating cells that permeate organs from the coelomic cavity capture or encapsulate pathogens, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO). Furthermore, they produce a range of bioactive proteins involved in immune response and perform detoxification functions through their lysosomal system. Coelomocytes can also participate in lithic reactions against target cells and the release of antimicrobial peptides. Our study immunohistochemically identify coelomocytes of Lumbricus terrestris scattered in the epidermal and the connective layer below, both in the longitudinal and in the smooth muscle layer, immunoreactive for TLR2, CD14 and α-Tubulin for the first time. TLR2 and CD14 are not fully colocalized with each other, suggesting that these coelomocytes may belong to two distinct families. The expression of these immune molecules on Annelidae coelomocytes confirms their crucial role in the internal defense system of these Oligochaeta protostomes, suggesting a phylogenetic conservation of these receptors. These data could provide further insights into the understanding of the internal defense system of the Annelida and of the complex mechanisms of the immune system in vertebrates.
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- 2023
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8. Immunohistochemical Characterization of Langerhans Cells in the Skin of Three Amphibian Species
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Giorgia Pia Lombardo, Anthea Miller, Marialuisa Aragona, Emmanuele Messina, Angelo Fumia, Michał Kuciel, Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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amphibia ,Anura ,Caudata ,Apoda ,skin Langerhans cells ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
The amphibian taxon includes three orders that present different morphological characteristics: Anura, Caudata, and Apoda. Their skin has a crucial role: it acts as an immune organ constituting a physical, chemical, immunological, and microbiological barrier to pathogen insult and conducts essential physiological processes. Amphibians have developed specialized features to protect the vulnerable skin barrier, including a glandular network beneath the skin surface that can produce antimicrobial and toxic substances, thus contributing to the defense against pathogens and predators. This study aims to characterize Langerhans cells in the skin of Lithobates catesbeianus (order: Anura; Shaw, 1802), Amphiuma means (order: Caudata; Garden, 1821), and Typhlonectes natans (order: Apoda; Fischer, 1880) with the following antibodies: Langerin/CD207 (c-type lectin), Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)II, and Toll-like receptor (TLR)2 (expressed by different types of DCs). Our results showed Langerhans cells positive for Langerin CD/207 in the epidermis of the three species; moreover, some antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in the connective tissue expressed TLR2 and MHCII. The distribution of the Langerhans cells is very similar in the three amphibians examined, despite their different habitats. A greater knowledge of the amphibian immune system could be useful to better understand the phylogeny of vertebrates and to safeguard amphibians from population declines. Furthermore, the similarities between amphibians’ and human skin concerning immunological features may be useful in both biology and translational medicine.
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- 2024
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9. Functional Adaptations of Hemocytes of Aplysia depilans (Gmelin, 1791) and Their Putative Role in Neuronal Regeneration
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Alessio Alesci, Angelo Fumia, Lorenza Mastrantonio, Sebastian Marino, Anthea Miller, and Marco Albano
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internal defense system ,invertebrates ,blood cells ,mollusca ,gastropod ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
Invertebrates show great diversity in their responses to neural damage. Numerous invertebrate phyla, including gastropods, can replace all or a portion of their nervous systems. Aplysia species have been utilized extensively in toxicology, ecology, and neuroscience because their neurological systems react to bodily harm by releasing trophic substances that can stimulate non-neural tissue regeneration and induce changes in the nervous system. This study aims to assess the putative role of hemocytes of Aplysia depilans (Gmelin, 1791) by analyzing the presence of Toll-like receptor 2, inducible nitric oxide synthetase, and, in particular, vimentin and α-tubulin, molecules potentially implicated in the process of neural regeneration. The results demonstrate that all the aforementioned proteins are present in hemocytes, suggesting their role in the defense response and their possible contribution to the neuronal regeneration process of this gastropod. These data provide deeper insight into the internal defense system of this mollusk.
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- 2024
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10. Immune Cell Profiling in the Ovarian Stroma of a Viviparous Fish during the Breeding Season: A Histological and Immunohistochemical Investigation
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Ramy K. A. Sayed, Doaa M. Mokhtar, Madeha Ahmed Hashim, Ahmed S. Aly, Giacomo Zaccone, Marco Albano, Alessio Alesci, and Nada Abdellah
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Ach ,CD68 ,ovary ,S100 protein ,viviparous ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
The molly fish is a member of viviparous teleosts that are characterized by the fusion of the right and left ovaries during their early embryonic development. This fusion results in a singular and saccular ovary, where the germinal epithelium lines the internal lumen. The present study aimed to identify the immune cells in the ovarian stroma of Molly fish during the breeding season using histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Histological examination of the ovaries displayed oocytes at all different stages of development and degeneration. The ovocoel, a lymph-filled space, remains in the center of the ovary and branches posteriorly, creating the lumen of the gonoduct. The ovarian wall is composed of three layers: the mesothelium, tunica albuginea, and germinal epithelium. The developing ova were held together by the stroma, which consisted of vascular collagenous connective tissue clustered with immune cells. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the presence of clusters of macrophages expressing APG5, IL-1β, TGF-β, S100, NF-κB, CD68, Iba-1, and Ach. Monocytes demonstrated positive immunoreactivity for both APG5 and IL-1β, whereas dendritic cells expressed only APG5. Furthermore, rodlet cells exhibited immunoreactivity for S100 protein, IL-1β, NF-κB, CD68, Nrf2, Ach, myostatin, SOX9, and Iba-1. In contrast, stem cells displayed immunoreactivity for Nrf2, myostatin, and SOX9. In conclusion, the ovarian stroma of Molly fish demonstrated a notable presence of immune cells, indicating their active involvement in immune reactions.
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- 2023
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11. Internal Defense System of Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamarck, 1819): Ecological Role of Hemocytes as Biomarkers for Thiacloprid and Benzo[a]Pyrene Pollution
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Alessio Alesci, Davide Di Paola, Angelo Fumia, Sebastian Marino, Claudio D’Iglio, Sergio Famulari, Marco Albano, Nunziacarla Spanò, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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hemocytes ,pollution ,biomarker ,internal defense system ,Chemical technology ,TP1-1185 - Abstract
The introduction of pollutants, such as thiacloprid and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), into the waters of urbanized coastal and estuarine areas through fossil fuel spills, domestic and industrial waste discharges, atmospheric inputs, and continental runoff poses a major threat to the fauna and flora of the aquatic environment and can have a significant impact on the internal defense system of invertebrates such as mussels. Using monoclonal and polyclonal anti-Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and anti-inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS) antibodies for the first time, this work aims to examine hemocytes in the mantle and gills of M. galloprovincialis as biomarkers of thiacloprid and B[a]P pollution and analyze their potential synergistic effect. To pursue this objective, samples were exposed to the pollutants, both individually and simultaneously. Subsequently, oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated by enzymatic analysis, while tissue changes and the number of hemocytes in the different contaminated groups were assessed via histomorphological and immunohistochemical analyses. Our findings revealed that in comparison to a single exposure, the two pollutants together significantly elevated oxidative stress. Moreover, our data may potentially enhance knowledge on how TLR2 and iNOS work as part of the internal defense system of bivalves. This would help in creating new technologies and strategies, such as biosensors, that are more suitable for managing water pollution, and garnering new details on the condition of the marine ecosystem.
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- 2023
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12. Morphological Distribution Patterns and Neuroimmune Communication of Ganglia in Molly Fish (Poecilia sphenops, Valenciennes 1846)
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Doaa M. Mokhtar, Abdelraheim Attaai, Giacomo Zaccone, Alessio Alesci, Rasha Alonaizan, and Manal T. Hussein
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ganglia ,GFAP ,CD68 ,Iba1 ,macrophages ,ganglionic neurons ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
Twenty-four adult molly fish (Poecilia sphenops, Valenciennes 1846) were collected to study the morphology and distribution of ganglia using histological, immunohistochemical, and electron microscopy and focusing on their relation to the immune cells. The ganglia were classified spatially into cranial and spinal, and functionally into sensory and autonomic. Spinal ganglia (dorsal root ganglia, DRG) contained large close ganglionic cells, enclosed by satellite cells, as well as bundles of both myelinated and non-myelinated nerve fibers. There are glial cells, immune cells and telocytes close to the ganglion. In addition, oligodendrocytes were closely related to myelinated axons. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression was confined to the glia cells and the nerve fibers in the cervical ganglia next to the gills, and surprisingly, in the large ganglionic cells of the DRG. The vestibular ganglia were large, connected to the hind brain, and contained numerous neurons packed in columns. The cervical ganglia were large and observed around the pseudobranch, head kidney, and thymus. Their neurons are randomly distributed, and nerve fibers are peripherally situated. CD3-positive T-lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and CD68-positive macrophages were in close contact with the ganglia. Furthermore, the ganglia around the head kidney showed positive Iba1-expressing cells. Most ganglion cells and nerve fibers in the DRG, autonomic, and vestibular ganglia showed moderate to strong S-100 immunoreactivity. The enteric glia, CD68-expressing macrophages, and acetylcholine (Ach)-expressing neurons were observed along the muscular layer of the intestinal wall. In conclusion, different ganglia of molly fish displayed direct communication with immune cells which support and maintain healthy ganglionic cells.
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- 2023
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13. Gills of Molly Fish: A Potential Role in Neuro-Immune Interaction
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Doaa M. Mokhtar, Marwa M. Hussein, Giacomo Zaccone, Alessio Alesci, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, and Ramy K. A. Sayed
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gill epithelium ,pillar cells ,chloride cells ,pavement cells ,SOX9 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
This study identified the cellular compositions of the gills in molly fish and their role in immunity using light-, electron- microscopy, and immunohistochemistry. The molly fish gills consisted of four holobranchs spaced between five branchial slits. Each hemibranch carried many fine primary and secondary gill lamellae. The gill arch was a curved cartilaginous structure, from which radiated the bony supports of the primary lamellae. The gill arch contained the afferent and efferent brachial arteries. The gill arch was covered by epidermal tissue rich with mucous cells. The primary lamella had a central cartilaginous support and efferent and afferent arterioles and was covered with pavement cells (PVC), salt-secreting chloride cells, and pale-staining mucous cells. These chloride cells contained abundant mitochondria and tubulovesicular system and are involved in ionic transport with a potential role in detoxification. The surface of the secondary lamellae (site of gaseous exchange) consisted of overlapping or interdigitating PVC supported and separated by pillar cells. Other cells were found within the gill epithelium and interstitial connective tissues, including lymphocytes, macrophages, monocytes, telocytes, stem cells, astrocytes, and neuroepithelial cells. The immunohistochemical analysis revealed that APG-5, iNOS-2, IL-1β, NF-κB, and TGF-B showed positive immunoreactivity in macrophages. The epithelium of the primary gill lamellae contained positive-GFAP astrocytes and S100 protein—chloride cells. The stem cells expressed SOX9, myostatin, and Nrf2. Neuroendocrine cells expressed S100 protein. In conclusion, the current work suggests that the gills of molly fish are multifunctional organs and are involved in immune reactions.
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- 2023
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14. Main Components of Fish Immunity: An Overview of the Fish Immune System
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Doaa M. Mokhtar, Giacomo Zaccone, Alessio Alesci, Michal Kuciel, Manal T. Hussein, and Ramy K. A. Sayed
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teleosts ,mucosal immunity ,cytokines ,secretory immunoglobulins ,antigen processing ,immune cells ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
Cellular immune responses consist of innate and adaptive cell-mediated immune mechanisms, where all leukocyte subpopulations are included. Among these are vital processes such as cell-mediated cytotoxicity and phagocytosis. The main cellular constituents of the fish immune system are macrophages, granulocytes, dendritic cells, NK cells, and cytotoxic T cells. This review provides the latest information on cellular defense mechanisms of fish and provides an overview of the function of the mucosal immune system in maintaining the general health of fish. Here, we discuss the fundamental ideas that underpin mucosal immune responses in teleosts, as well as the innate and adaptive immune cells and the molecules that play a role in these immune responses. Moreover, cytokine molecules and pathways in teleosts have been reported to focus on several kinds of associated immunity. Importantly, we also review antigen processing and presentation. The knowledge reported here will enable better understanding, determination, and modulation of the pathways responsible for protective immunity, thus consequently improving the health of the fish in aquaculture.
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- 2023
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15. Immunohistochemistry of the Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) in African Bonytongue (Heterotis niloticus, Cuvier 1829)
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Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Alessio Alesci, Marialuisa Aragona, Simona Pergolizzi, Anthea Miller, Kristina Zuwala, Michal Kuciel, Giacomo Zaccone, Antonino Germanà, and Maria Cristina Guerrera
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Heterotis niloticus ,GALT ,lymphoid tissue ,phylogenesis ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
Heterotis niloticus is a basal teleost, belonging to the Osteoglossidae family, which is widespread in many parts of Africa. The digestive tract of H. niloticus presents similar characteristics to those of higher vertebrates, exhibiting a gizzard-like stomach and lymphoid aggregates in the intestinal lamina propria. The adaptive immune system of teleost fish is linked with each of their mucosal body surfaces. In fish, the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is generally a diffuse immune system that represents an important line of defense against those pathogens inhabiting the external environment that can enter through food. The GALT comprises intraepithelial lymphocytes, which reside in the epithelial layer, and lamina propria leukocytes, which consist of lymphocytes, macrophages, granulocytes, and dendritic-like cells. This study aims to characterize, for the first time, the leukocytes present in the GALT of H. niloticus, by confocal immuno- fluorescence techniques, using specific antibodies: toll-like receptor 2, major histocompatibility complex class II, S100 protein, serotonin, CD4, langerin, and inducible nitric oxide synthetase. Our results show massive aggregates of immune cells in the thickness of the submucosa, arranged in circumscribed oval-shaped structures that are morphologically similar to the isolated lymphoid follicles present in birds and mammals, thus expanding our knowledge about the intestinal immunity shown by this fish.
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- 2023
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16. Localization of Acetylcholine, Alpha 7-NAChR and the Antimicrobial Peptide Piscidin 1 in the Macrophages of Fish Gut: Evidence for a Cholinergic System, Diverse Macrophage Populations and Polarization of Immune Responses
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Giacomo Zaccone, Alessio Alesci, Doaa M. Mokhtar, Marialuisa Aragona, Maria Cristina Guerrera, Gioele Capillo, Marco Albano, Jorge de Oliveira Fernandes, Viswanath Kiron, Ramy K. A. Sayed, Marwa M. Hussein, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Michal Kuciel, Krystyna Zuwala, Antonino Germanà, Jose Manuel Icardo, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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cholinergic markers ,macrophages ,mast cells ,piscidin 1 ,cholinergic mucous cells ,gut ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
The recognition and elimination of invading pathogens are vital for host survival. Macrophages play a central role in host protection and cells functionally reminiscent of vertebrate macrophages are present in all multicellular organisms. A pattern responsible for bacterial recognition found on the surface of macrophages is CD14. These cells possess a repertoire of antimicrobial molecules stored in their granules and lysosomes. Polarization states observed in mammalian macrophages termed M1 and M2 also likely exist in fish macrophages. Markers for macrophage subtypes are slowly but definitively emerging in fish species. In the present study cell markers such as CD14, acetylcholine, alpha 7 acetylcholine nicotinic receptor (nAChR) subtype, the inducible nitric oxidase synthase (iNOS), and the antimicrobial peptide piscidin 1 are reported for the first time in the intestinal macrophages of both catfish Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794) and the African bonytongue Heterotis niloticus (Cuvier, 1829) along the anterior and the posterior axis and the concentric muscle layers. Many antimicrobial effector responses of vertebrate macrophages including respiratory burst and NO induction are similar across the diverse animal taxa. Antibodies against calbindin coupled with ones to VAChT and tubulin revealed the localization of myenteric and submucosal plexuses, which are made up of enteric neurons, glial cells, and nerves near macrophages. Current studies allow for the elucidation of multiple roles of macrophages in disease models providing an insight into their in vivo function in fish.
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- 2023
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17. Confocal Identification of Immune Molecules in Skin Club Cells of Zebrafish (Danio rerio, Hamilton 1882) and Their Possible Role in Immunity
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Alessio Alesci, Marco Albano, Serena Savoca, Doaa M. Mokhtar, Angelo Fumia, Marialuisa Aragona, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Marwa M. Hussein, Gioele Capillo, Simona Pergolizzi, Nunziacarla Spanò, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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confocal microscopy ,club cells ,evolution ,innate immunity ,ostariophysi ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
The immune system of a fish has cellular and molecular defense mechanisms that are substantially retained throughout the evolution of vertebrates. The innate immune system provides biological processes, such as phagocytosis and mechanical barriers, to implement an efficient defensive response after exposure to chemical or biological contaminants, pollutants, and contact with parasites, germs, and pathogens. Club cells (CCs) are widespread in the skin of Ostariophysi. After a predator attack or exposure to toxins and parasites, these cells can produce alarming substances. Given their effectiveness against viruses, parasites, and common skin lesions, recent studies have suggested that CCs are a component of the immune system. This study aims to immunohistochemically characterize the CCs for the first time in the skin of zebrafish, using mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38, Toll-like receptor (TLR)2, Piscidin1, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) peptides involved in the function of all types of vertebrate immune cells. According to our analysis, the intermediate layer of the epidermis exhibited rounded, oval, and elongated CCs, with central acidophilic cytoplasm and a spherical basophilic nucleus, that are positive to the antibodies tested. Our results may confirm that CCs could be involved in the immune function, increasing our knowledge of the immune system of teleosts.
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- 2022
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18. Expression of Antimicrobic Peptide Piscidin1 in Gills Mast Cells of Giant Mudskipper Periophthalmodon schlosseri (Pallas, 1770)
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Alessio Alesci, Gioele Capillo, Doaa M. Mokhtar, Angelo Fumia, Roberta D’Angelo, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Marco Albano, Maria Cristina Guerrera, Ramy K. A. Sayed, Nunziacarla Spanò, Simona Pergolizzi, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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immune system ,gills ,amphibious teleost ,confocal microscopy ,Piscidin1 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
The amphibious teleost Giant mudskipper (Periophthalmodon schlosseri, Pallas 1770) inhabit muddy plains and Asian mangrove forests. It spends more than 90% of its life outside of the water, using its skin, gills, and buccal-pharyngeal cavity mucosa to breathe in oxygen from the surrounding air. All vertebrates have been found to have mast cells (MCs), which are part of the innate immune system. These cells are mostly found in the mucous membranes of the organs that come in contact with the outside environment. According to their morphology, MCs have distinctive cytoplasmic granules that are released during the degranulation process. Additionally, these cells have antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that fight a variety of infections. Piscidins, hepcidins, defensins, cathelicidins, and histonic peptides are examples of fish AMPs. Confocal microscopy was used in this study to assess Piscidin1 expression in Giant Mudskipper branchial MCs. Our results demonstrated the presence of MCs in the gills is highly positive for Piscidin1. Additionally, colocalized MCs labeled with TLR2/5-HT and Piscidin1/5-HT supported our data. The expression of Piscidin1 in giant mudskipper MCs highlights the involvement of this peptide in the orchestration of teleost immunity, advancing the knowledge of the defense system of this fish.
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- 2022
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19. New Report of Zu cristatus (Bonelli, 1819) in the Ionian Sea with an In-Depth Morphometrical Comparison with All Mediterranean Records
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Marco Albano, Claudio D’Iglio, Nunziacarla Spanò, Davide Di Paola, Alessio Alesci, Serena Savoca, and Gioele Capillo
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zoological records ,teleost ,deep-sea fishes ,phylogeny ,marine environment ,ontogeny ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Genetics ,QH426-470 - Abstract
Monitoring the occurrence and distribution of rare fish species is essential, especially in a semi-closed basin such as the Mediterranean Sea. Biologically interesting species often represent fishing waste (being part of the by-catch) and therefore are not retained, leading to a huge gap in data collection. Here we report about the occurrence in the Ionian Sea of a Zu cristatus (Bonelli, 1819) specimen, a mesopelagic fish from the order Lampriformes considered rare in the whole Mediterranean basin. The sample was captured at a depth of 720 m off the coast of Noto (Sicily, Italy) by deep-sea longline fisheries. The biometrics and meristic data were compared with all the available data on specimens previously reported in the Mediterranean Sea. It is interesting to note that, among the few records in the literature, most reports mention a lower depth range for this species. In fact, it is quite known that juvenile specimens of Z. cristatus were frequently found in shallow waters, while information about the biology of the adult stage is scarce, indicating they would seem to prefer much deeper environments. Considering the difficulty to collect data on this rare fish, this contribution can help to improve the knowledge about its distribution.
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- 2022
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20. Detecting Intestinal Goblet Cells of the Broadgilled Hagfish Eptatretus cirrhatus (Forster, 1801): A Confocal Microscopy Evaluation
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Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Serena Savoca, Angelo Fumia, Angelica Mangano, Marco Albano, Emmanuele Messina, Marialuisa Aragona, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Gioele Capillo, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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confocal microscopy ,Eptatretus cirrhatus ,goblet cells ,gut ,immune system ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
The fish intestine operates as a complicated interface between the organism and the environment, providing biological and mechanical protections as a result of a viscous layer of mucus released by goblet cells, which serves as a barrier against bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, and contributes to the functions of the immune system. Therefore, goblet cells have a role in preserving the health of the body by secreting mucus and acting as sentinels. The ancient jawless fish broadgilled hagfish (Eptatretus cirrhatus, Forster, 1801) has a very basic digestive system because it lacks a stomach. By examining the presence, localization, and co-localization of 5-HT, TLR2, iNOS, and Piscidin1, this study intends to provide insight into the potential immune system contributions arranged by the gut goblet cells of broadgilled hagfish. Our results characterize intestinal goblet cells of broadgilled hagfish, for the first time, with the former antibodies, suggesting the hypothesis of conservation of the roles played by these cells also in primitive vertebrates. Moreover, this study deepens the knowledge about the still little-known immune system of hagfish.
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- 2022
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21. Confocal Characterization of Intestinal Dendritic Cells from Myxines to Teleosts
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Alessio Alesci, Gioele Capillo, Angelo Fumia, Emmanuele Messina, Marco Albano, Marialuisa Aragona, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Nunziacarla Spanò, Simona Pergolizzi, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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comparative immunology ,dendritic cells ,evolution ,immunity ,confocal microscopy ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that regulate the beginning of adaptive immune responses. The mechanisms of tolerance to antigens moving through the digestive tract are known to be regulated by intestinal DCs. Agnatha and Gnathostoma are descendants of a common ancestor. The Ostracoderms gave rise to Cyclostomes, whereas the Placoderms gave rise to Chondrichthyes. Sarcopterygii and Actinopterygii are two evolutionary lines of bony fishes. Brachiopterygii and Neopterygii descend from the Actinopterygii. From Neopterygii, Holostei and Teleostei evolved. Using immunohistochemistry with TLR-2, Langerin/CD207, and MHC II, this study aimed to characterize intestinal DCs, from myxines to teleosts. The findings reveal that DCs are positive for the antibodies tested, highlighting the presence of DCs and DC-like cells phylogenetically from myxines, for the first time, to teleosts. These findings may aid in improving the level of knowledge about the immune system’s evolution and these sentinel cells, which are crucial to the body’s defense.
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- 2022
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22. Immune System and Psychological State of Pregnant Women during COVID-19 Pandemic: Are Micronutrients Able to Support Pregnancy?
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Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Angelo Fumia, Anthea Miller, Caterina Cernigliaro, Maria Zaccone, Vanessa Salamone, Enza Mastrantonio, Sebastiano Gangemi, Giovanni Pioggia, and Nicola Cicero
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immune system ,pregnancy ,stress ,COVID-19 ,vitamins ,micronutrients ,Nutrition. Foods and food supply ,TX341-641 - Abstract
The immune system is highly dynamic and susceptible to many alterations throughout pregnancy. Since December 2019, a pandemic caused by coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has swept the globe. To contain the spread of COVID-19, immediate measures such as quarantine and isolation were implemented. These containment measures have contributed to exacerbate situations of anxiety and stress, especially in pregnant women, who are already particularly anxious about their condition. Alterations in the psychological state of pregnant women are related to alterations in the immune system, which is more vulnerable under stress. COVID-19 could therefore find fertile soil in these individuals and risk more severe forms. Normally a controlled dietary regimen is followed during pregnancy, but the use of particular vitamins and micronutrients can help counteract depressive-anxiety states and stress, can improve the immune system, and provide an additional weapon in the defense against COVID-19 to bring the pregnancy to fruition. This review aims to gather data on the impact of COVID-19 on the immune system and psychological condition of pregnant women and to assess whether some micronutrients can improve their psychophysical symptoms.
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- 2022
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23. Histological and Chemical Analysis of Heavy Metals in Kidney and Gills of Boops boops: Melanomacrophages Centers and Rodlet Cells as Environmental Biomarkers
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Alessio Alesci, Nicola Cicero, Angelo Fumia, Claudia Petrarca, Rocco Mangifesta, Vincenzo Nava, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Sebastiano Gangemi, Mario Di Gioacchino, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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Boops boops ,melanomacrophages ,rodlet cells ,heavy metal ,kidney ,gills ,Chemical technology ,TP1-1185 - Abstract
Industrialization has resulted in a massive increase in garbage output, which is frequently discharged or stored in waterways like rivers and seas. Due to their toxicity, durability, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification, heavy metals (such as mercury, cadmium, and lead) have been identified as strong biological poisons. Their presence in the aquatic environment has the potential to affect water quality parameters and aquatic life in general. Teleosts’ histopathology provides a sensitive indicator of pollutant-induced stress, because their organs have a central role in the transformation of different active chemical compounds in the aquatic environment. In particular, the gills, kidneys, and liver are placed at the center of toxicological studies. The purpose of this study is to examine the morphological changes caused by heavy metals in the kidney and gills of Boops boops, with a focus on melanomacrophages centers (MMCs) and rodlet cells (RCs) as environmental biomarkers, using histological and histochemical stainings (hematoxylin/eosin, Van Gieson trichrome, Periodic Acid Schiff reaction, and Alcian Blue/PAS 2.5), and immunoperoxidase methods. Our findings show an increase of MMCs and RCs linked to higher exposure to heavy metals, confirming the role of these aggregates and cells as reliable biomarkers of potential aquatic environmental changes reflected in fish fauna. The cytological study of RCs and MMCs could be important in gaining a better understanding of the complicated immune systems of teleosts.
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- 2022
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24. Role of Serotonin in the Maintenance of Inflammatory State in Crohn’s Disease
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Simona Pergolizzi, Alessio Alesci, Antonio Centofanti, Marialuisa Aragona, Socrate Pallio, Ludovico Magaudda, Giuseppina Cutroneo, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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Crohn’s disease ,serotonin ,dendritic cells ,myofibroblast ,goblet cells ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic intestinal inflammation considered to be a major entity of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), affecting different segments of the whole gastrointestinal tract. Peripheral serotonin (5-HT), a bioactive amine predominantly produced by gut enterochromaffin cells (ECs), is crucial in gastrointestinal functions, including motility, sensitivity, secretion, and the inflammatory response. These actions are mediated by a large family of serotonin receptors and specialized serotonin transporter (SERT) located on a variety of cell types in the gut. Several studies indicate that intestinal 5-HT signaling is altered in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Paraformaldehyde-fixed intestinal tissues, obtained from fifteen patients with Crohn’s disease were analyzed by immunostaining for serotonin, Langerin/CD207, and alpha-Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA). As controls, unaffected (normal) intestinal specimens of seven individuals were investigated. This study aimed to show the expression of serotonin in dendritic cells (DCs) and myofibroblast which have been characterized with Langerin/CD207 and α-SMA, respectively; furthermore, for the first time, we have found the presence of serotonin in goblet cells. Our results show the correlation between different types of intestinal cells in the maintenance of the inflammatory state in CD linked to the recall of myofibroblasts.
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- 2022
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25. Relationship between Immune Cells, Depression, Stress, and Psoriasis: Could the Use of Natural Products Be Helpful?
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Alessio Alesci, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Angelo Fumia, Natasha Irrera, Enza Mastrantonio, Mario Vaccaro, Sebastiano Gangemi, Antonello Santini, Nicola Cicero, and Simona Pergolizzi
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psoriasis ,immune system ,immune cells ,depression ,stress ,natural products ,Organic chemistry ,QD241-441 - Abstract
Psoriasis is one of the most widespread chronic inflammatory skin diseases, affecting about 2%–3% of the worldwide adult population. The pathogenesis of this disease is quite complex, but an interaction between genetic and environmental factors has been recognized with an essential modulation of inflammatory and immune responses in affected patients. Psoriatic plaques generally represent the clinical psoriatic feature resulting from an abnormal proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, which cause dermal hyperplasia, skin infiltration of immune cells, and increased capillarity. Some scientific pieces of evidence have reported that psychological stress may play a key role in psoriasis, and the disease itself may cause stress conditions in patients, thus reproducing a vicious cycle. The present review aims at examining immune cell involvement in psoriasis and the relationship of depression and stress in its pathogenesis and development. In addition, this review contains a focus on the possible use of natural products, thus pointing out their mechanism of action in order to counteract clinical and psychological symptoms.
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- 2022
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26. Expression of the Antimicrobial Peptide Piscidin 1 and Neuropeptides in Fish Gill and Skin: A Potential Participation in Neuro-Immune Interaction
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Giacomo Zaccone, Gioele Capillo, Jorge Manuel Oliveira Fernandes, Viswanath Kiron, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Alessio Alesci, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Maria Cristina Guerrera, Michal Kuciel, Krystyna Zuwala, Jose Manuel Icardo, Atsushi Ishimatsu, Ryosuke Murata, Takafumi Amagai, Antonino Germanà, and Marialuisa Aragona
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Pis-IR/gene expression ,neuropeptides ,NECs ,peripheral nervous system ,mast cells ,eosinophils ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are found widespread in nature and possess antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. Due to their multifunctional properties, these peptides are a focus of growing body of interest and have been characterized in several fish species. Due to their similarities in amino-acid composition and amphipathic design, it has been suggested that neuropeptides may be directly involved in the innate immune response against pathogen intruders. In this review, we report the molecular characterization of the fish-specific AMP piscidin1, the production of an antibody raised against this peptide and the immunohistochemical identification of this peptide and enkephalins in the neuroepithelial cells (NECs) in the gill of several teleost fish species living in different habitats. In spite of the abundant literature on Piscidin1, the biological role of this peptide in fish visceral organs remains poorly explored, as well as the role of the neuropeptides in neuroimmune interaction in fish. The NECs, by their role as sensors of hypoxia changes in the external environments, in combination with their endocrine nature and secretion of immunomodulatory substances would influence various types of immune cells that contain piscidin, such as mast cells and eosinophils, both showing interaction with the nervous system. The discovery of piscidins in the gill and skin, their diversity and their role in the regulation of immune response will lead to better selection of these immunomodulatory molecules as drug targets to retain antimicrobial barrier function and for aquaculture therapy in the future.
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- 2022
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27. Resveratrol and Immune Cells: A Link to Improve Human Health
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Alessio Alesci, Noemi Nicosia, Angelo Fumia, Federica Giorgianni, Antonello Santini, and Nicola Cicero
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resveratrol ,immune cells ,nutraceuticals ,SIRT1 ,inflammation ,Organic chemistry ,QD241-441 - Abstract
The use of polyphenols as adjuvants in lowering risk factors for various debilitating diseases has been investigated in recent years due to their possible antioxidant action. Polyphenols represent a fascinating and relatively new subject of research in nutraceuticals and nutrition, with interest rapidly expanding since they can help maintain health by controlling metabolism, weight, chronic diseases, and cell proliferation. Resveratrol is a phenolic compound found mostly in the pulp, peels, seeds, and stems of red grapes. It has a wide variety of biological actions that can be used to prevent the beginning of various diseases or manage their symptoms. Resveratrol can influence multiple inflammatory and non-inflammatory responses, protecting organs and tissues, thanks to its interaction with immune cells and its activity on SIRT1. This compound has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anticancer, and antiviral properties, making it a potential adjunct to traditional pharmaceutical therapy in public health. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of resveratrol in terms of active biological effects and mechanism of action in modifying the immune cellular response to promote human psychophysical health.
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- 2022
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28. Three contaminated sites in southern Italy. The Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes cohort: protocol for a longitudinal birth cohort study
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Silvia Ruggieri, Gaspare Drago, Paolo Colombo, Alessio Alesci, Pasquale Augello, Alessandro Bisbano, Antonino Bucolo, Patrizia Dattoli, Raffaella De Sole, Valentina La Runa, Angela Lopez, Lucia Lo Presti, Bruno Magliarditi, Francesco Paravati, Giuseppe Pirillo, Antonino Ziino Colanino, and Fabio Cibella
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Medicine - Abstract
IntroductionExposure to environmental contaminants during pregnancy is one of the determinants of child’s future health outcomes. The effect of environmental pollution on pregnant women living in heavily polluted areas is of special interest and, in this context, the Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes (NEHO) cohort will focus on the investigation of (1) toxicants transferred from the environment to the mother and from the mother to the developing fetus and (2) the influence of toxicants on pregnancy outcomes, fetal development and health status during infancy. Because the human placenta is positioned at the interface between the maternal/external environment and the embryo, it can be considered a highly informative matrix regarding many key pregnancy events that can shape infant’s future health.Methods and analysisThe NEHO cohort will enrol an estimated total of 800 pregnant women in three selected National Priority Contaminated Sites in southern Italy. Epidemiological data, concerning maternal health status, lifestyle and pregnancy, are obtained through questionnaires provided to the mother starting from the last 2 months of pregnancy. At delivery, maternal blood, umbilical cord blood and placenta tissue are collected to assess contaminant levels and to clarify how toxicants interact with the placental domain. Furthermore, placental transcriptome is studied in order to explore the interferences of toxicants on the role of the placenta in maternal/fetal interplay. Regular follow-up is planned at 6, 12 and 24 months.Ethics and disseminationThe study has been approved by all the Ethics Committees of the three National Priority Contaminated Sites involved: the Ethics Committee of the University Hospitals of Messina (18 September 2017, n. 9/2017); the Ethics Committee ‘Catania 2’ (11 July 2017, n. 38/2017/CECT2); the Ethics Committee of the Region of Calabria (20 July 2017, n. 173). Findings will be disseminated in the scientific community and on a regional basis for appropriate policy actions.
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- 2019
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29. Immunogenicity, effectiveness, safety and psychological impact of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines
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Alessio Alesci, Marco Gitto, Magdalena Kotańska, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Anthea Miller, Noemi Nicosia, Angelo Fumia, and Simona Pergolizzi
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COVID-19 Vaccines ,Immunogenicity, Vaccine ,SARS-CoV-2 ,Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus ,Vaccination ,Immunology ,Humans ,COVID-19 ,Immunology and Allergy ,General Medicine - Abstract
In December 2019, a new single-stranded RNA coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, appeared in China and quickly spread around the world leading to a pandemic. Infection with SARS-CoV-2 generates symptoms ranging from asymptomatic to severe, occasionally requiring hospitalization in intensive care units, and, in more severe cases, leading to death. Scientists and researchers around the world have made a real race against time to develop various vaccines to slow down and stop the spread of the virus. In addition to conventional viral vector vaccines, new generation mRNA vaccines, BNT152b2 (Comirnaty) and mRNA-1273 (Spikevax), have been developed respectively by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna. These vaccines act on immune cells to induce an immune response with the production of specific antibodies against Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, and to stimulate the differentiation of T and B memory cells. The objective of this review is to provide a detailed picture of the validity of these new vaccines and the safety of vaccination. Not only was the immunogenic effect of mRNA vaccines evaluated, but also the psychosocial impact they had on the population. The data collected show that this type of vaccine can also be an excellent candidate for future treatment and eradication of possible new pathologies with viral and non-viral etiology.
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- 2022
30. Spirulina promotes macrophages aggregation in zebrafish (Danio rerio) liver
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Alessio Alesci, Angelo Fumia, Anthea Miller, Concetta Calabrò, Antonello Santini, Nicola Cicero, and Patrizia Lo Cascio
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Organic Chemistry ,Plant Science ,Biochemistry ,Analytical Chemistry - Abstract
The immune system of teleosts offers many ideas to deepen the immune mechanisms and cells in general. The use of zebrafish as an experimental model is increased in recent years, thanks to its genetic and anatomical characteristics. It is known that several natural compounds exert an action on the immune system, boosting it. Spirulina, a non-toxic blue-green alga, has been declared a superfood for its peculiar biological activities. In this study, we test the immunostimulant effect of spirulina on zebrafish liver macrophages by immunohistochemical analysis using optical and confocal microscopy. Our results have shown an increase in the number of macrophages after feeding with spirulina, furthermore, this natural ‘superfood’ can induce macrophages aggregation. These data not only provide information on the possible effect of this alga as a complementary feed on the immune cells of teleost, but also improve the knowledge of the immune mechanisms of vertebrates.
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- 2022
31. The gas bladder of Heterotis niloticus (Cuvier, 1829)
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José M. Icardo, Alessio Alesci, Michal Kuciel, Krystyna Zuwala, Maria C. Guerrera, and Giacomo Zaccone
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Animal Science and Zoology ,Developmental Biology - Published
- 2023
32. Localization of vasoactive intestinal peptide and toll‐like receptor 2 immunoreactive cells in endostyle of urochordate <scp> Styela plicata </scp> (Lesueur, 1823)
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Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Gioele Capillo, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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Histology ,Styela plicata, TLR2, VIP, WGA ,endostyle, immune cells ,WGA ,endostyle ,Toll-Like Receptor 2 ,VIP ,Medical Laboratory Technology ,immune cells ,Styela plicata ,TLR2 ,Animals ,Urochordata ,Anatomy ,Instrumentation ,Phylogeny ,Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide - Abstract
The endostyle is the first component of the ascidian digestive tract, it is shaped like a through and is located in the pharynx's ventral wall. This organ is divided longitudinally into nine zones that are parallel to each other. Each zone's cells are physically and functionally distinct. Support elements are found in zones 1, 3, and 5, while mucoproteins secreting elements related to the filtering function are found in zones 2, 4, and 6. Zones 7, 8, and 9, which are located in the lateral dorsal section of the endostyle, include cells with high iodine and peroxidase concentrations. Immunohistochemical technique using the following antibodies, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and lectin histochemistry (WGA-wheat-germagglutinin), were used in this investigation to define immune cells in the endostyle of Styela plicata (Lesueur, 1823). Our results demonstrate the presence of immune cells in the endostyle of S. plicata, highlighting that innate immune mechanisms are highly conserved in the phylogeny of the chordates. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Immune cells positive to TLR-2 and VIP in the endostyle of Styela plicata. Expression of WGA in several zones of endostyle. Use of comparative biology to improve the knowledge about immunology in ascidians.
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- 2022
33. Immunohistochemistry of the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) in African bonytongue ($\textit{Heterotis niloticus}$, Cuvier 1829)
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Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Alessio Alesci, Marialuisa Aragona, Simona Pergolizzi, Anthea Miller, Kristina Zuwala, Michal Kuciel, Giacomo Zaccone, Antonino Germanà, and Maria Cristina Guerrera
- Subjects
Organic Chemistry ,phylogenesis ,General Medicine ,Catalysis ,Computer Science Applications ,Inorganic Chemistry ,Heterotis niloticus ,GALT ,Physical and Theoretical Chemistry ,lymphoid tissue ,Molecular Biology ,Spectroscopy - Abstract
Heterotis niloticus is a basal teleost, belonging to the Osteoglossidae family, which is widespread in many parts of Africa. The digestive tract of H. niloticus presents similar characteristics to those of higher vertebrates, exhibiting a gizzard-like stomach and lymphoid aggregates in the intestinal lamina propria. The adaptive immune system of teleost fish is linked with each of their mucosal body surfaces. In fish, the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is generally a diffuse immune system that represents an important line of defense against those pathogens inhabiting the external environment that can enter through food. The GALT comprises intraepithelial lymphocytes, which reside in the epithelial layer, and lamina propria leukocytes, which consist of lymphocytes, macrophages, granulocytes, and dendritic-like cells. This study aims to characterize, for the first time, the leukocytes present in the GALT of H. niloticus, by confocal immuno- fluorescence techniques, using specific antibodies: toll-like receptor 2, major histocompatibility complex class II, S100 protein, serotonin, CD4, langerin, and inducible nitric oxide synthetase. Our results show massive aggregates of immune cells in the thickness of the submucosa, arranged in circumscribed oval-shaped structures that are morphologically similar to the isolated lymphoid follicles present in birds and mammals, thus expanding our knowledge about the intestinal immunity shown by this fish.
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- 2023
34. Role of nutraceuticals on neurodegenerative diseases: neuroprotective and immunomodulant activity
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Angelo Fumia, Nicola Cicero, Marco Gitto, Noemi Nicosia, and Alessio Alesci
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Plant Extracts ,Dietary Supplements ,Organic Chemistry ,Humans ,Neurodegenerative Diseases ,Plant Science ,Biochemistry ,Hypericum ,Antidepressive Agents ,Phytotherapy ,Analytical Chemistry - Abstract
Neurodegeneration is a degenerative process characterized by the progressive loss of the structure and function of neurons that involves several immune cells. It is the primary cause of dementia and other several syndromes, known as neurodegenerative diseases. These disorders are age-related and it is estimated that by 2040 there will be approximately 81.1 million people suffering from these diseases. In addition to the traditional pharmacological therapy, in recent years nutraceuticals, naturally based compounds with a broad spectrum of biological effects: anti-aging, antioxidants, hypoglycaemic, hypocholesterolemic, anticancer, anxiolytic, antidepressant, etc., assumed an important role in counteracting these pathologies. In particular, several compounds such as astaxanthin, baicalein, glycyrrhizin, St. John's wort, and
- Published
- 2021
35. Mucus secretions in Cnidarian, an ecological, adaptive and evolutive tool
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Serena Savoca, Dario Di Fresco, Alessio Alesci, Gioele Capillo, and Nunziacarla Spanò
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Aquatic Science ,Oceanography - Abstract
Mucus secretion provides an interface with unique and multifunctional properties between the epithelial cells of many aquatic organisms and their surrounding environment. Indeed, mucus is involved in various essential biological processes including feeding, reproduction, osmoregulation, competition for space, defense against pathogens, xenobiotics, and a multitude of environmental stressors. The ability to produce a functional mucus layer is an important evolutionary step, arising first in Cnidaria that allowed for the development of the mucus-lined digestive cavity seen in higher metazoans. Mucus secretion by cnidarians has been moderately investigated in both corals and jellyfish, which among cnidarians are the ones that have shown the highest secretion rates to date. However, although in corals the production of mucus has received more attention, especially in view of the important ecological role played in coral reefs, in medusozoans the topic is little considered. Although the mucus secreted by corals has innumerable and important immunological, nutritional, and protective responsibilities, it should be remembered that jellyfish too represent a fundamental component of marine trophic web, playing numerous and important roles that are still unclear today. What is certain is that jellyfish are characterized (especially in the era of climate change) by large fluctuations in population density, the ecological implications of which are poorly understood. However, in both cases (Medusozoans and Anthozoans) to date some aspects relating to mucous secretions seem completely obscure, such as the microbiome and its variations as a function of environmental conditions or ontogenetic development, its implications in the field of immunological ecology, the consequent energy costs and finally the role played by the mucus in evolutionary terms. This review summarizes the properties, functions, ecological implications and evolutionary importance of mucus, in cnidarians, mainly focusing its roles in corals and jellyfish. Understanding these aspects relating to the ecological and evolutionary importance played by mucus is of fundamental importance for the ecosystems functioning.
- Published
- 2022
36. Investigating the internal system of defense of Gastropoda Aplysia depilans (Gmelin, 1791): Focus on hemocytes
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Alessio Alesci, Angelo Fumia, Marco Albano, Emmanuele Messina, Roberta D'Angelo, Angelica Mangano, Anthea Miller, Nunziacarla Spanò, Serena Savoca, and Gioele Capillo
- Subjects
Environmental Chemistry ,General Medicine ,Aquatic Science - Published
- 2023
37. Neuronal regeneration: Vertebrates comparative overview and new perspectives for neurodegenerative diseases
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Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Alessio Alesci, Angelo Fumia, Patrizia Lo Cascio, and Simona Pergolizzi
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Nervous system ,retina ,Retina ,hair cells ,nervous system ,spinal cord ,Cell Biology ,Biology ,Spinal cord ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Neuronal regeneration ,medicine ,comparative neurobiology ,Animal Science and Zoology ,comparative neurobiology, hair cells, nervous system, retina, spinal cord ,Neuroscience ,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics - Published
- 2021
38. Expression and function of toll-like receptor 2 in vertebrate
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Simona Pergolizzi, Angelo Fumia, Roberta D’Angelo, Angelica Mangano, Giorgia Pia Lombardo, Angelo Giliberti, Emmanuele Messina, Alessio Alesci, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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Histology ,Cell Biology ,General Medicine - Published
- 2023
39. Morpho-structural adaptations of the integument in different aquatic organisms
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Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Doaa M. Mokhtar, Angelo Fumia, Marialuisa Aragona, Giorgia Pia Lombardo, Emmanuele Messina, Roberta D’Angelo, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Ramy K.A. Sayed, Marco Albano, Gioele Capillo, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
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Histology ,Cell Biology ,General Medicine - Published
- 2023
40. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study of the immune cell system and epithelial surfaces of the respiratory organs in the bimodally breathing African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus Burchell, 1822)
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John Ndegwa Maina, Jose Manuel Icardo, Giacomo Zaccone, Marialuisa Aragona, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Alessio Alesci, Marco Albano, Maria Cristina Guerrera, Antonino Germana, Jorge Manuel Oliveira Fernandes, Viswanath Kiron, and Gioele Capillo
- Subjects
Neurotransmitter Agents ,Serotonin ,gills ,Histology ,nerves ,Pis 1 ,5-HT ,Cholinergic Agents ,Nitric Oxide Synthase Type I ,nAChR ,Receptors, Nicotinic ,Acetylcholine ,immune cells ,ABOs respiratory surfaces ,Clarias gariepinus ,Animals ,Cytokines ,Ach ,Anatomy ,mAChR ,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics ,Catfishes ,Biotechnology - Abstract
Acetylcholine (Ach) represents the old neurotransmitter in central and peripheral nervous system. Its muscarinic and nicotinic receptors (mAChRs and nAChRs) constitute an independent cholinergic system that is found in immune cells and play a key role in the regulation of the immune function and cytokine production. Gas exchanging surfaces of the gills and air-breathing organs (ABOs) of the sharptooth catfish Clarias gariepinus were investigated using ultrastructural and confocal immunofluorescence techniques. This study was predominantly focused on the structure of the immune cell types, the expression of their neurotransmitters, including the antimicrobial peptide piscidin 1, and the functional significance of respiratory gas exchange epithelia. A network of immune cells (monocytes, eosinophils, and mast cells) was observed in the gill and the ABO epithelia. Eosinophils containing 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) immunoreactivity were seen in close association with mast cells expressing acetylcholine (Ach), 5-HT, neuronal nitric oxide synthase, and piscidin 1. A rich and dense cholinergic innervation dispersing across the islet capillaries of the gas exchange barrier and the localization of Ach in the squamous pavement cells covering the capillaries were evidenced byVAChT antibodies. We report for the first time that piscidin 1 (Pis 1)-positive mast cells interact with Pis 1-positive nerves found in the epithelia of the respiratory organs. Pis 1 immunoreactivity was also observed in the covering respiratory epithelium of the ABOs and associated with a role in local mucosal immune defense. The above results anticipate future studies on the neuro-immune interactions at mucosal barrier surfaces, like the gill and the skin of fish, areas densely populated by different immune cells and sensory nerves that constantly sense and adapt to tissue-specific environmental challenges.
- Published
- 2022
41. Mast cells in goldfish (Carassius auratus) gut: Immunohistochemical characterization
- Author
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Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Angelo Fumia, Concetta Calabrò, Patrizia Lo Cascio, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
- Subjects
Carassius auratus ,gut ,mast cells ,TLR-2 ,Animal Science and Zoology ,Cell Biology ,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics - Published
- 2022
42. Rodlet cells in kidney of goldfish (Carassius auratus, Linnaeus 1758): A light and confocal microscopy study
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Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, Gioele Capillo, Patrizia Lo Cascio, and Eugenia Rita Lauriano
- Subjects
Microscopy, Confocal ,Histology ,Fish immunology ,TLR-2 ,Cell Biology ,General Medicine ,Carassius auratus ,Kidney ,Antibodies ,Immunity, Innate ,Goldfish ,Rodlet cells ,Animals ,Carassius auratus, Fish immunology, Kidney, Rodlet cells, TLR-2 - Abstract
Rodlet cells (RCs) have always been an enigma for scientists. RCs have been given a variety of activities over the years, including ion transport, osmoregulation, and sensory function. These cells, presumably as members of the granulocyte line, are present only in teleosts and play a role in the innate immune response. RCs are migratory cells found in a variety of organs, including skin, vascular, digestive, uropoietic, reproductive, and respiratory systems, and present distinct physical properties that make them easily recognizable in tissues and organs. The development of RCs can be divided into four stages: granular, transitional, mature, and ruptured, having different morphological characteristics. Our study aims to characterize the different stages of these cells by histomorphological and histochemical techniques. Furthermore, we characterized these cells at all stages with peroxidase and fluorescence immunohistochemical techniques using different antibodies: S100, tubulin, α-SMA, piscidin, and for the first time TLR-2. From our results, the immunoreactivity of these cells to the antibodies performed may confirm that RCs play a role in fish defense mechanisms, helping to expand the state of the art on immunology and immune cells of teleosts.
- Published
- 2022
43. Immunostimulant and Antidepressant Effect of Natural Compounds in the Management of Covid-19 Symptoms
- Author
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Alessio Alesci, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Nicola Cicero, Anthea Miller, and Angelo Fumia
- Subjects
medicine.drug_class ,medicine.medical_treatment ,Pharmacology ,Natural compounds ,medicine.disease_cause ,Anxiolytic ,Immunostimulant ,Immune system ,Adjuvants, Immunologic ,Pandemic ,medicine ,Humans ,Depression (differential diagnoses) ,Coronavirus ,business.industry ,Depression ,SARS-CoV-2 ,Essential Oils ,COVID-19 ,Vitamins ,Baicalein ,Antidepressive Agents ,COVID-19 Drug Treatment ,Zinc ,Immune System ,Communicable Disease Control ,Antidepressant ,Natural compounds, COVID-19, Depression, Immune System, Vitamins, Zinc, Essential Oils, Baicalein ,business ,Adjuvant - Abstract
In recent years, the use of natural compounds as adjuvant treatments and alternatives to traditional pharmacological therapies has become increasingly popular. These compounds have a wide range of biological effects, such as: antioxidant, anti-aging, hypocholesterolizing, hypoglycemic, antitumoral, antidepressant, anxiolytic activity, etc. Almost all of these compounds are easily available and are contained in different foods. At the end of 2019 the Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 appeared in China and quickly spread throughout the world, causing a pandemic. The most common symptoms of this infection are dry cough, fever, dyspnea, and in severe cases bilateral interstitial pneumonia, with consequences that can lead to death. The nations, in trying to prevent the spread of infection, have imposed social distancing and lockdown measures on their citizens. This had a strong psychological-social impact, leading to phobic, anxious and depressive states. Pharmacological therapy could be accompanied by treatment with several natural compounds, such as vitamins, baicalein, zinc and essential oils. These compounds possess marked immunostimulant activity, strengthening the immune response and mitigating interactions between the virus and the host cell. They also have an antidepressant effect, acting on certain neurotransmitters.
- Published
- 2021
44. Gill structure and neurochemical markers in the African bonytongue (Heterotis niloticus): A preliminary study
- Author
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Giacomo, Zaccone, Gioele, Capillo, Marialuisa, Aragona, Alessio, Alesci, Camila, Cupello, Eugenia Rita, Lauriano, Maria Cristina, Guerrera, Michal, Kuciel, Kristina, Zuwala, Antonino, Germana, and Josè Manuel, Icardo
- Subjects
Gills ,ILCM ,Histology ,neuroepithelial cells ,normoxia ,hypoxia ,Vesicular Acetylcholine Transport Proteins ,Fishes ,gill ,Cell Biology ,General Medicine ,Oxygen ,Animals ,Nitric Oxide Synthase ,Hypoxia ,Biomarkers ,Heterotis niloticus ,osteoglossomorpha - Abstract
We have conducted a morphological and immunohistochemical study of the gills of juvenile specimens of the obligate air-breathing fish Heterotis niloticus. The study has been performed under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. The gills showed a reduced respiratory surface area by development of an interlamellar cellular mass (ILCM). The ILCM persisted without changes under both normoxia and hypoxia. Neuroepithelial cells (NECs), the major oxygen and hypoxia sensing cell type, were located in the distal end of the gill filaments and along the ILCM edges. These cells expressed 5HT, the neuronal isoform of the nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). Furthermore, NECs appeared associated with nitrergic nerve fibres. The O2 levels did not modify the location, number or the immunohistochemical characteristics of NECs. Pavement cells covering the ILCM were also positive to nNOS and VAChT. The mechanisms of O
- Published
- 2022
45. Chemical analysis, biological and therapeutic activities of
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Alessio, Alesci, Anthea, Miller, Roberta, Tardugno, and Simona, Pergolizzi
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Plant Leaves ,Plant Extracts ,Fruit ,Olea ,Antioxidants - Abstract
The
- Published
- 2021
46. Toll-like receptor 2 and α-Smooth Muscle Actin expressed in the tunica of a urochordate, Styela plicata
- Author
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Simona Pergolizzi, Patrizia Lo Cascio, Marialuisa Aragona, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, and Alessio Alesci
- Subjects
0301 basic medicine ,Toll-like receptors 2 ,Hemocytes ,Chordate ,Hemocytes, Styela plicata, Toll-like receptors 2, Tunica, α-Smooth Muscle Actin ,03 medical and health sciences ,Tunica ,Animals ,Ciona intestinalis ,Urochordata ,Toll-like receptor ,Innate immune system ,030102 biochemistry & molecular biology ,biology ,Cell Biology ,General Medicine ,α-Smooth Muscle Actin ,biology.organism_classification ,Actins ,Immunity, Innate ,Toll-Like Receptor 2 ,Tunicate ,Cell biology ,030104 developmental biology ,Epidermis (zoology) ,Styela plicata ,Gene Expression Regulation ,Organ Specificity ,Developmental Biology - Abstract
The tunicate, Styela plicata (Lesueur, 1823) present an open circulator system with a tubular heart and blood flowing in lacunae among organs, bathing the tissues directly. Blood vascular lacunae are present in the tunica that is situated outside the epidermis and present a fibrous structure. The cells of the tunic are in straight contact with the blood vessels or are highly mobile. Ascidians are considered model organisms in comparative immunology of the chordate, and hold an important phylogenetic position as sister group of vertebrates. In recent years, numerous studies have reported the presence of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the genome of non-mammalian organisms including invertebrates. Two TLRs, designated Ci‐TLR1 and Ci-TLR2 were expressed in the stomach, intestine and in numerous hemocytes of Ciona intestinalis, demonstrating that these key transmembrane proteins are evolutionarily conserved in ascidians. In this study for the first time, hemocytes aggregates were identified by confocal immunofluorescence techniques, using TLR2 antibody in the tunica of Styela plicata; furthermore, α-Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) expression has been shown in the cells lining the vessels of the tunic. Our results support the view that the TLR-mediated innate immune functions are conserved in ascidian tissues.
- Published
- 2021
47. Expression of VAChT and 5-HT in Ulcerative colitis dendritic cells
- Author
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Angelo Favaloro, Giuseppinella Melita, Giuseppina Cutroneo, Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Socrate Pallio, Alessio Alesci, Simona Pergolizzi, and Giuseppina Rizzo
- Subjects
0301 basic medicine ,Adult ,Male ,Serotonin ,Histology ,Langerin ,Adolescent ,Vesicular Acetylcholine Transport Proteins ,Inflammation ,Human gut ,03 medical and health sciences ,Paracrine signalling ,0302 clinical medicine ,Immune system ,Vesicular acetylcholine transporter ,Medicine ,Humans ,Antigen-presenting cell ,biology ,business.industry ,Cell Biology ,General Medicine ,Dendritic Cells ,medicine.disease ,Ulcerative colitis ,Dendritic cells ,Langerin/CD207 ,VAChT ,030104 developmental biology ,Gene Expression Regulation ,030220 oncology & carcinogenesis ,Immunology ,biology.protein ,Enterochromaffin cell ,Colitis, Ulcerative ,Female ,medicine.symptom ,business - Abstract
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract that can affect people of worldwide. In contrast with Crohn's disease, that can relate the entire thickness of the bowel wall, the inflammation of ulcerative colitis is limited to the colonic mucosa. Immune cells including activated T cells, plasma cells, mast cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs) trigger the inflammation. Furthermore, dendritic cells are antigen presenting cells involved in maintaining intestinal immune homeostasis. It has been described an increment of number in DCs colonic mucosa of patients with ulcerative colitis. The immune cells such as antigen-presenting cells can act as autocrine or paracrine modulators. Recent studies showed that dendritic cells synthetized and released classical neurotransmitters as glutamate, dopamine, acetylcholine, and serotonin. Paraformaldehyde-fixed intestinal tissues, obtained from the stricture sites of ten patients with ulcerative colitis were analyzed by immunostaining for Langerin/CD207, serotonin and vesicular acetylcholine transporter. As controls, unaffected (normal) portions of five patients were also investigated. Aim of this study was to characterize for the first time the human gut dendritic cells of ulcerative colitis patients, with Langerin/CD207 that is a c-type lectin expressed by different types of DCs and to colocalize in the same cells the expression of serotonin and vesicular acetylcholine transporter, showing the link between dendritic cells, gut enterochromaffin cells or autonomic nerves in immune activation and generation of intestinal inflammation.
- Published
- 2021
48. Can nutraceuticals assist treatment and improve covid-19 symptoms?
- Author
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Eugenia Rita Lauriano, Nicola Cicero, Marialuisa Aragona, and Alessio Alesci
- Subjects
medicine.medical_specialty ,2019-20 coronavirus outbreak ,COVID-19 Vaccines ,Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) ,medicine.drug_class ,Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) ,Plant Science ,01 natural sciences ,Biochemistry ,Analytical Chemistry ,Individual health ,Nutraceutical ,Pandemic ,medicine ,Humans ,Intensive care medicine ,Pandemics ,010405 organic chemistry ,business.industry ,SARS-CoV-2 ,SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, nutraceuticals, luteolin quercetin, astaxanthin, elderberry, glycyrrhizin, lactoferrin, hesperidin, curcumin ,Organic Chemistry ,0104 chemical sciences ,COVID-19 Drug Treatment ,010404 medicinal & biomolecular chemistry ,Dietary Supplements ,Antiviral drug ,business - Abstract
Viral diseases have always played an important role in public and individual health. Since December 2019, the world is facing a pandemic of SARS-CoV-2, a coronavirus that results in a syndrome known as COVID-19. Several studies were conducted to implement antiviral drug therapy, until the arrival of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Numerous scientific investigations have considered some nutraceuticals as an additional treatment of COVID-19 patients to improve their clinical picture. In this review, we would like to emphasize the studies conducted to date about this issue and try to understand whether the use of nutraceuticals as a supplementary therapy to COVID-19 may be a valid and viable avenue. Based on the results obtained so far, quercetin, astaxanthin, luteolin, glycyrrhizin, lactoferrin, hesperidin and curcumin have shown encouraging data suggesting their use to prevent and counteract the symptoms of this pandemic infection.
- Published
- 2021
49. Chemical analysis, biological and therapeutic activities of Olea europaea L. extracts
- Author
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Simona Pergolizzi, Roberta Tardugno, Alessio Alesci, and Anthea Miller
- Subjects
food.ingredient ,Antioxidant ,medicine.medical_treatment ,anticholesterolemic ,Plant Science ,01 natural sciences ,Biochemistry ,olive ,Analytical Chemistry ,food ,medicine ,antihypertensive ,Olea europaea ,cytotoxic activity ,Traditional medicine ,biology ,010405 organic chemistry ,Food additive ,Organic Chemistry ,Antimicrobial ,biology.organism_classification ,0104 chemical sciences ,010404 medicinal & biomolecular chemistry ,antihyperglycemic ,antimicrobial ,Olea - Abstract
The Olea europaea L. is a very well-known and widely used plant, especially for its nutritional qualities. Its extracts from leaves and fruits are widely used in contrasting and preventing various pathologies. In this review, the collected data highlight important chemical analyses and biological effects of this plant extracts. It exhibits cholesterol-lowering, hypoglycemic, cytotoxic, antibacterial, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hypotensive activities. The results show that extracts from O. europaea could be used as a food additive in the supplementary treatment of many diseases.
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Biological effect of astaxanthin on alcohol-induced gut damage in Carassius auratus used as experimental model
- Author
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Alessio, Alesci, primary, Pergolizzi, S., additional, Gervasi, T., additional, Aragona, M., additional, Lo Cascio, P., additional, Cicero, N., additional, and Lauriano, E. R., additional
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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