G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling is terminated by arrestin binding to a phosphorylated receptor. Binding propensity has been shown to be modulated by stabilizing the pre-activated state of arrestin through point mutations or C-tail truncation. Here, we hypothesize that pre-activated rotated states can be stabilized by small molecules, and this can promote binding to phosphorylation-deficient receptors, which underly a variety of human disorders.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFFeline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal disease in cats caused by infection with feline coronavirus (FCoV). Despite severe inflammatory changes, defense mechanisms fail to achieve virus clearance. Some studies focused on various immune evasion mechanisms, but none of these studies elucidated the inefficacy of the complement system, which is one major player in FIP-associated immune pathogenesis.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFLeishmaniasis and malaria are two debilitating protozoan diseases affecting millions globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Current therapeutic options face significant challenges due to emerging drug-resistant strains, necessitating the discovery of novel antiprotozoal agents. This study explores, for the first time, the antiprotozoal potential of calamenenes and their dimers, naturally occurring sesquiterpenes found in essential oils, through a novel chemo-enzymatic synthesis approach.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAmid the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, concerns surfaced regarding the spread of the virus to wildlife. Switzerland lacked data concerning the exposure of free-ranging animals to SARS-CoV-2 during this period. This study aimed to investigate the potential exposure of Swiss free-ranging wildlife to SARS-CoV-2.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIntroduction: This study aimed to characterize neonatal admissions to pediatric emergency departments (PEDs) in Catania, to analyze the primary pediatric conditions leading to these admissions, and to explore the association between the demographic characteristics of the population and the severity of their presentations.
Materials And Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on neonates (aged <28 days) admitted to three PEDs in Catania between January 2015 and December 2019. Additionally, a comprehensive review of the literature on this topic was performed.