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Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue

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A special issue of Biology (ISSN 2079-7737).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 22257

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Prof. Dr. Francesco Cappello

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Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Palermo, via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
Interests: medicine; biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology; agricultural and biological sciences; baropodometry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Maria Grazia Palmerini

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Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
Interests: reproduction; infertility; assisted reproductive technology; cryopreservation; environmental pollutants; oocyte; ovarian follicles; spermatozoa; embryos; histology; electron microscopy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Dear Colleagues,

The Italian Society of Experimental Biology was established in Pavia, Italy, in 1925 by the “Gotha” of famous Italian physicians and researchers. Among them, Camillo Golgi, Giuseppe Levi, Camillo Artom, Maurizio Ascoli, Luigi Califano and Luigi Condorelli, along other famous “Masters” of the Italian academy are reported in the Constitute Act of the Society. They understood that the key for discovering the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis was in the hands of experimental biologists, scientists who applied experimental methods to biomedical research.

With this Special Issue, we want to celebrate one of the most important and popular scientific societies in Italy (and probably in the world) by publishing both original papers and reviews produced by researchers worldwide on the topics of experimental biology, such as anatomy, histology, embryology, physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, pharmacology, anthropology, cancerology, pathology, microbiology, etc. The fields of research also include advanced microscopy and imaging, aging, aquatic environments, artificial intelligence applied to biomedicine, biodiversity and modeling, biology of reproduction and infertility, biomedical and pharmaceutical biotechnology, cellular stress, environment and health, micro- and nanovesicles in biomedicine, neuroscience, nutrition and food supplements, plant biology, precision medicine, regenerative medicine, structural biology, urban biodiversity and climate change, and other arguments related to the emerging concept of “one health”.

Your contribution to this Special Issue will be very welcome!

Prof. Dr. Francesco Cappello
Dr. Maria Grazia Palmerini
Guest Editors

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Keywords

anatomy
histology
embryology
physiology
biochemistry
cell biology
genetics
pharmacology
anthropology
cancerology
pathology
microbiology
advanced microscopy and imaging
aging
aquatic environments
artificial intelligence applied to biomedicine
biodiversity and modeling
biology of reproduction and infertility
biomedical and pharmaceutical biotechnology
cellular stress
environment and health
micro- and nanovesicles in biomedicine
neuroscience
nutrition and food supplements
plant biology
precision medicine
regenerative medicine
structural biology
urban biodiversity and climate change

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Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 3060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Acidic Polysaccharide-Enriched Extracts from Holothuria tubulosa on Two- and Three-Dimensional Invasive Breast Cancer Cell Models

by Cristina Ciampelli, Sylvia Mangani, Gabriele Nieddu, Marilena Formato, Paraskevi Ioannou, Spyros Kremmydas, Nikos Karamanos and Antonio Junior Lepedda

Biology 2025, 14(4), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14040334 - 25 Mar 2025

Viewed by 913

Abstract

Marine invertebrates, particularly Holothurians, have emerged as valuable sources of bioactive compounds with potential anticancer properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of two acidic polysaccharide-enriched (APs) fractions (Ht1 and Ht2) from the sea cucumber species Holothuria tubulosa on the highly invasive cell line MDA-MB-231. Functional assays were performed to assess cell viability, migratory potential, adhesion on collagen I, and cell morphology, alongside gene expression analysis. Additionally, a preliminary evaluation of their effects on three-dimensional breast cancer cell-derived spheroids was conducted. Both AP fractions exerted anticancer effects by decreasing cell viability. Ht1 showed a significant inhibitory effect on cell migration, increased adhesion on collagen I, and exhibited a trend to transform the mesenchymal MDA-MB-231 cells to a more epithelial phenotype. Treatment with the AP fractions modulated the expression of genes, such as the epithelial marker E-cadherin (for the Ht1), a key cell adhesion molecule, and the matrix metalloproteinases 7 and 9 (for the Ht2), enzymes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling, which hold critical roles in cancer progression and metastasis. No significant effects were observed on spheroids, possibly due to the high charge and hydrophilicity of the APs, leading to poor penetration into the inner spheroid layers. Although preliminary, these findings highlight the potential of H. tubulosa-derived APs as promising antineoplastic agents, warranting further investigation into their mechanisms of action and structural characterization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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16 pages, 3219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Caco2/HT-29 In Vitro Cell Co-Culture: Barrier Integrity, Permeability, and Tight Junctions’ Composition During Progressive Passages of Parental Cells

by Elena Donetti, Paola Bendinelli, Margherita Correnti, Elena Gammella, Stefania Recalcati and Anita Ferraretto

Biology 2025, 14(3), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14030267 - 6 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 708

Abstract

Epithelial linings are crucial for the maintenance of physiological barriers. The intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB) consists of enterocytes through tight junctions and mucus-secreting cells and can undergo physiological modifications throughout life. To reproduce as closely as possible the IEB main features over time, in vitro co-cultures of Caco2/HT-29 70/30 formed by parental Caco2 and HT-29 cells sub-cultivated for more than 40 passages were set up. The measurements of the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) identified two populations: physiological TEER co-cultures (PC) with values > 50 Ωcm² formed by parental cells with fewer than 40 passages, and leaky TEER co-cultures (LC) with values < 50 Ωcm² formed by parental cells with more than 40 passages. In LC, paracellular permeability increased in parallel. By immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis, an increase in claudin 2 was observed in LC vs. PC, with no differences in occludin expression. MUC-2 immunoreactivity was stronger in PC than in LC. LC also showed an enhanced vulnerability to TNFα+IFN-γ. These results reproduce the main morpho-functional modifications reported in the human leaky/aged gut and support the usefulness of our in vitro cell model for studying the molecular processes underlying these modifications and testing drug/nutraceutical treatments to ameliorate leaky gut aging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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17 pages, 1522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of lncRNA XIST/miR-146a Axis in Matrix Degradation and Apoptosis of Osteoarthritic Chondrocytes Through Regulation of MMP-13 and BCL2

by Sara Cheleschi, Nicola Mondanelli, Iole Seccafico, Roberta Corsaro, Elena Moretti, Giulia Collodel and Antonella Fioravanti

Biology 2025, 14(3), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14030221 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 2069

Abstract

Growing evidence demonstrates the critical roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. The lncRNA XIST is one of the most commonly studied; however, its function remains unclear. This study aimed to research the molecular mechanism of XIST in human OA chondrocytes. Cells were transfected with small interfering RNA against XIST or with a microRNA (miR)-146a inhibitor in the presence of interleukin (IL)-1β. Viability was detected using MTT; apoptosis using cytometry; and XIST, miR-146a, B-cell lymphoma (BCL)2, and metalloproteinase (MMP)-13 expression using real-time PCR. The analysis of p50 and p65 nuclear factor (NF)-κB was conducted using PCR and immunofluorescence. Our findings showed that XIST was highly expressed in OA chondrocytes when compared to T/C-28a2 lines. Furthermore, XIST silencing significantly promoted survival and limited apoptosis, with a concomitant over expression of BCL2, reduction in MMP-13 mRNA, and NF-κB activation after IL-1β stimulus. Conversely, miR-146a was significantly down-regulated in OA cells, while its levels were increased following XIST silencing; moreover, miR-146a inhibition induced opposite results to those caused by XIST. Finally, the down-regulation of XIST was correlated to the over-expression of miR-146a, with a consequent modulation of BCL2, MMP-13, and NF-κB. This study suggests an influence of the XIST/miR-146a axis on the viability, apoptosis, and matrix degradation occurring in OA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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13 pages, 2121 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor Inhibits Cell Motility and p-ERK1/2 Signaling in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Cell Lines

by Veronica Porreca, Eleonora Corbella, Biagio Palmisano, Marco Peres, Pietro Angelone, Cristina Barbagallo, Michele Stella, Giuseppina Mignogna, Gianluca Mennini, Fabio Melandro, Massimo Rossi, Marco Ragusa, Alessandro Corsi, Mara Riminucci, Bruno Maras and Carmine Mancone

Biology 2025, 14(2), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020155 - 3 Feb 2025

Viewed by 952

Abstract

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a multifunctional soluble glycoprotein, primarily known for its potent anti-angiogenic properties. In recent years, its ability to counteract cell proliferation and motility has generated interest in PEDF as a potential tumor suppressor. In the intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), PEDF, Thrombospondin 1 (THBS1), and Thrombospondin 2 (THBS2) are expressed and released into the tumor microenvironment (TME), where they promote lymphangiogenesis at the expense of the neoangiogenic program, aiding the dissemination of cancer cells via lymphatic vessels. Recently, we demonstrated that THBS1 and THBS2 directly affect iCCA cells, exacerbating their malignant behavior, while the direct role of PEDF remains to be elucidated. In this study, through a cell-based assay and molecular analysis, we investigate the direct function of PEDF on two well-established iCCA cell lines. Our results show that PEDF affects cancer cell motility in a paracrine manner, reducing their migratory and invasive capabilities. Notably, our data suggest that the PEDF-induced inhibition of motility in iCCA cells occurs through the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, as indicated by the reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Overall, this study provides the first evidence of PEDF acting as a tumor suppressor in iCCA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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36 pages, 6519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Proteomic Profiling of Hepatocyte-like Cells Derived from Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: De Novo Expression of Liver-Specific Enzymes

by Melania Lo Iacono, Simona Corrao, Giusi Alberti, Giandomenico Amico, Francesca Timoneri, Eleonora Russo, Annamaria Cucina, Sergio Indelicato, Francesca Rappa, Tiziana Corsello, Salvatore Saieva, Antonino Di Stefano, Francesca Di Gaudio, Pier Giulio Conaldi and Giampiero La Rocca

Biology 2025, 14(2), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14020124 - 24 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1274

Abstract

End-stage liver disease (ESLD), affecting millions worldwide, represents a challenging issue for clinical research and global public health. Liver transplantation is the gold standard therapeutic approach but shows some drawbacks. Hepatocyte transplantation could be a reliable alternative for patient treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cells derived from Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord (WJ-MSCs) can differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) and show immunomodulatory functions. Due to the increasing demand for fully characterized cell therapy vehicles warranting both the safety and efficacy of treatments, in this work, we extensively characterized WJ-MSCs before and after the application of a hepatocyte-directed differentiation protocol. HLCs exhibited a morphology resembling that of hepatocytes, expressed early and late hepatic markers (α-fetoprotein, albumin, CK18, HNF4-α), and acquired hepatic functions (glycogen synthesis, xenobiotics detoxification), as also revealed by the shotgun proteomics approach. HLCs maintained the same pattern of immunomodulatory molecule expression and mesenchymal markers, other than displaying specific enzymes, suggesting these cells as promising candidates for cellular therapy of ESLD. Our work shed new light on the basic biology of HLCs, suggesting new therapeutic approaches to treat ESLD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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19 pages, 3304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nanovesicular Mediation of the Gut–Brain Axis by Probiotics: Insights into Irritable Bowel Syndrome

by Radha Santonocito, Letizia Paladino, Alessandra Maria Vitale, Giuseppa D'Amico, Francesco Paolo Zummo, Paolo Pirrotta, Samuele Raccosta, Mauro Manno, Salvatore Accomando, Francesco D’Arpa, Francesco Carini, Rosario Barone, Francesca Rappa, Antonella Marino Gammazza, Fabio Bucchieri, Francesco Cappello and Celeste Caruso Bavisotto

Biology 2024, 13(5), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13050296 - 25 Apr 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3138

Abstract

Background: Dysbiosis, influenced by poor diet or stress, is associated with various systemic diseases. Probiotic supplements are recognized for stabilizing gut microbiota and alleviating gastrointestinal issues, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study focused on the tryptophan pathways, which are important for the regulation of serotonin levels, and on host physiology and behavior regulation. Methods: Nanovesicles were isolated from the plasma of subjects with chronic diarrhea, both before and after 60 days of consuming a probiotic mix (Acronelle^®, Bromatech S.r.l., Milan, Italy). These nanovesicles were assessed for the presence of Tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase 2 (TDO 2). Furthermore, the probiotics mix, in combination with H₂O₂, was used to treat HT29 cells to explore its cytoprotective and anti-stress effect. Results: In vivo, levels of TDO 2 in nanovesicles were enhanced in the blood after probiotic treatment, suggesting a role in the gut–brain axis. In the in vitro model, a typical H₂O₂-induced stress effect occurred, which the probiotics mix was able to recover, showing a cytoprotective effect. The probiotics mix treatment significantly reduced the heat shock protein 60 kDa levels and was able to preserve intestinal integrity and barrier function by restoring the expression and redistribution of tight junction proteins. Moreover, the probiotics mix increased the expression of TDO 2 and serotonin receptors. Conclusions: This study provides evidence for the gut–brain axis mediation by nanovesicles, influencing central nervous system function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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Review

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19 pages, 41489 KiB

Open AccessReview

Storytelling of Myocardial Biopsy

by Gaetano Thiene

Biology 2025, 14(3), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14030306 - 18 Mar 2025

Viewed by 313

Abstract

A biopsy involves the removal of a piece or an entire organ from a living patient. The former began with open heart surgery (surgical pathology) and the latter with the recipient heart in cardiac transplantation. Transvenous or transarterial catheterization is the current procedure to performed endomyocardial biopsy with bioptome from the ventricles. This manoeuvre was first carried out by Werner Forssmann through a urological catheter in 1929, which he introduced into his radial left vein until it reached the RV. Then, in London in 1974, Richardson invented a new technique with a catheter via the right femoral vein, which he applied with success in patients with multiple myocardial diseases, both inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Subsequently, a transjugular endomyocardial biopsy was accomplished by Margaret Billingham to monitor heart rejection during cardiac transplantation. In the beginning, only histology for a light microscope, and rarely during electron microscopy, was employed. With the advent of molecular techniques and the discovery of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), molecular investigation became part of the gold standard for diagnosis involving EMB: histology, immunohistochemistry and molecular investigation, the latter in search of a viral cause. Nowadays, EMB is frequently employed in infiltrative (amyloidosis) and storage diseases (e.g., hemochromatosis and Fabry diseases). Diagnosis of myocarditis is now possible through Magnetic Cardiac Resonance (MCR), in place of BEM histology, thanks to oedema. With the help of ECMO, it is possible to allow the heart to rest, supporting its recovery from ejection fraction even in fulminant myocarditis. Cardiac transplantation with the pathological study of the recipient heart offers the opportunity to discover and study new diseases, like restrictive cardiomyopathy and a non-compacted left ventricle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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25 pages, 1418 KiB

Open AccessReview

Extracellular Vesicles and Pregnancy-Related Hypertensive Disorders: A Descriptive Review on the Possible Implications “From Bench to Bedside”

by Elena Grossini, Daniela Surico, Sakthipriyan Venkatesan, Mohammad Mostafa Ola Pour, Carmen Imma Aquino and Valentino Remorgida

Biology 2025, 14(3), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14030240 - 27 Feb 2025

Viewed by 653

Abstract

Pregnancy involves extracellular vesicles (EVs) through mechanisms that are poorly understood to date. Furthermore, it is not surprising that EVs may also be involved in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia (PE) and gestational hypertension, two clinical conditions with high morbidity and mortality, given their capacity to mediate intracellular communications and regulate inflammation and angiogenesis. We searched major online scientific search engines (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, WES, Embase, etc.) using the terms “Preeclampsia”, “Pregnancy”, “Hypertension”, “Pregnancy-related hypertension”, “Extracellular vesicles”, “Biomarkers”, “Gestation” AND “Obstetrics”. Finding potential early biomarkers of risk or illness progression would be essential for the optimum care of expectant mothers with the aforementioned conditions. Nevertheless, none of the various screening assays that have been discovered recently have shown high predictive values. The analysis of EVs in the peripheral blood starting from the first trimester of pregnancy may hold great promise for the possible correlation with gestational hypertension problems and represent a marker of the early stages of the disease. EVs use may be a novel therapeutic approach for the management of various illnesses, as well. In order to define EVs’ function in the physiopathology of pregnancy-associated hypertension and PE, as well as their potential as early biomarkers and therapeutic tools, we have compiled the most recent data in this review. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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12 pages, 3875 KiB

Open AccessReview

Myo-Inositol and Its Derivatives: Their Roles in the Challenges of Infertility

by Martina Placidi, Giovanni Casoli, Carla Tatone, Giovanna Di Emidio and Arturo Bevilacqua

Biology 2024, 13(11), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13110936 - 16 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3899

Abstract

Myo-inositol (MYO) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI) are the two most significant isomeric forms of inositol, playing a critical role in intracellular signaling. MYO is the most abundant form of inositol in nature; DCI is produced from MYO through epimerization by an insulin-dependent enzyme. Recently, it has been demonstrated that inositol may influence oocyte maturation and improve intracellular Ca²⁺ oscillation in the oocytes, and it has been proposed as a potential intervention for restoring spontaneous ovulation. The MYO concentration in human follicular fluid is considered a bioindicator of oocyte quality. In the ovary, DCI modulates the activity of aromatase, thus regulating androgen synthesis. Under physiological conditions, the MYO/DCI ratio is maintained at 40:1 in plasma. In women with PCOS, the MYO/DCI ratio is lowered to 0:2:1, contributing to elevated androgen production. By regulating FSH signaling, MYO administration increases the number of high-quality embryos available for transfer in poor responder patients. Finally, by acting downstream to insulin signaling, inositol administration during pregnancy may represent a novel strategy for counteracting gestational diabetes. These findings show that diet supplementation with inositol may be a promising strategy to address female infertility and sustain a healthy pregnancy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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12 pages, 579 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microgravity and Human Body: Unraveling the Potential Role of Heat-Shock Proteins in Spaceflight and Future Space Missions

by Olga Maria Manna, Stefano Burgio, Domiziana Picone, Adelaide Carista, Alessandro Pitruzzella, Alberto Fucarino and Fabio Bucchieri

Biology 2024, 13(11), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13110921 - 13 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3317

Abstract

In recent years, the increasing number of long-duration space missions has prompted the scientific community to undertake a more comprehensive examination of the impact of microgravity on the human body during spaceflight. This review aims to assess the current knowledge regarding the consequences of exposure to an extreme environment, like microgravity, on the human body, focusing on the role of heat-shock proteins (HSPs). Previous studies have demonstrated that long-term exposure to microgravity during spaceflight can cause various changes in the human body, such as muscle atrophy, changes in muscle fiber composition, cardiovascular function, bone density, and even immune system functions. It has been postulated that heat-shock proteins (HSPs) may play a role in mitigating the harmful effects of microgravity-induced stress. According to past studies, heat-shock proteins (HSPs) are upregulated under simulated microgravity conditions. This upregulation assists in the maintenance of the proper folding and function of other proteins during stressful conditions, thereby safeguarding the physiological systems of organisms from the detrimental effects of microgravity. HSPs could also be used as biomarkers to assess the level of cellular stress in tissues and cells exposed to microgravity. Therefore, modulation of HSPs by drugs and genetic or environmental techniques could prove to be a potential therapeutic strategy to reduce the negative physiological consequences of long-duration spaceflight in astronauts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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13 pages, 2670 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine in the Prevention and Treatment of Bone Infections

by Leticia Ramos Dantas, Gabriel Burato Ortis, Paula Hansen Suss and Felipe Francisco Tuon

Biology 2024, 13(8), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13080605 - 10 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1748

Abstract

Reconstructive and regenerative medicine are critical disciplines dedicated to restoring tissues and organs affected by injury, disease, or congenital anomalies. These fields rely on biomaterials like synthetic polymers, metals, ceramics, and biological tissues to create substitutes that integrate seamlessly with the body. Personalized implants and prosthetics, designed using advanced imaging and computer-assisted techniques, ensure optimal functionality and fit. Regenerative medicine focuses on stimulating natural healing mechanisms through cellular therapies and biomaterial scaffolds, enhancing tissue regeneration. In bone repair, addressing defects requires advanced solutions such as bone grafts, essential in medical and dental practices worldwide. Bovine bone scaffolds offer advantages over autogenous grafts, reducing surgical risks and costs. Incorporating antimicrobial properties into bone substitutes, particularly with metals like zinc, copper, and silver, shows promise in preventing infections associated with graft procedures. Silver nanoparticles exhibit robust antimicrobial efficacy, while zinc nanoparticles aid in infection prevention and support bone healing; 3D printing technology facilitates the production of customized implants and scaffolds, revolutionizing treatment approaches across medical disciplines. In this review, we discuss the primary biomaterials and their association with antimicrobial agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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Other

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10 pages, 731 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Autoimmunity against Nucleus Ambiguous Is Putatively Possible in Both Long-COVID-19 and Vaccinated Subjects: Scientific Evidence and Working Hypothesis

by Silvestro Ennio D’Anna, Alessandra Maria Vitale, Giuseppa D’Amico, Celeste Caruso Bavisotto, Pasquale Ambrosino, Francesco Cappello, Mauro Maniscalco and Antonella Marino Gammazza

Biology 2024, 13(6), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060359 - 21 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1809

Abstract

As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10–20% of people have experienced mid- to long-term effects following SARS-CoV-2 infection, collectively referred to as post-COVID-19 condition or long-COVID, including some neurovegetative symptoms. Numerous findings have suggested that the onset of these neurovegetative symptoms upon viral infection may be caused by the production of autoantibodies through molecular mimicry phenomena. Accordingly, we had previously demonstrated that 22 of the human proteins sharing putatively immunogenic peptides with SARS-CoV-2 proteins are expressed in the dorsal motor nucleus and nucleus ambiguous. Therefore, if molecular mimicry occurs following severe forms of COVID-19, there could be transitory or permanent damage in some vagal structures, resulting in a lower vagal tone and all the related clinical signs. We investigated the presence of autoantibodies against two proteins of vagal nuclei sharing a peptide with SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein using an immunoassay test on blood obtained from patients with cardiorespiratory symptoms in patients affected by ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 (long-COVID), subjects vaccinated without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and subjects not vaccinated without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Interestingly, putative autoantibodies were present in both long-COVID-19 and vaccinated groups, opening interesting questions about pathogenic mechanisms of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental Biology 100 Years after the Foundation of the Italian Society: A Celebratory Special Issue)

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